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Obits
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- Written by: Elizabeth Larson
LAKEPORT, Calif. — Rodolfo "Rudy" Lopez, 62, passed away on March 13, 2025, in Lakeport.
Born on Dec. 6, 1962, in El Salvador, Rudy brought warmth and laughter to those around him throughout his life.
Rudy is survived by his daughters, Xenya and Ruby; his beloved granddaughter, Gianna; his mother, Maria Julia; and three sisters, Marjorie, Lilly, and Blanca Rosa.
He also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, and many more family and friends who cherished him deeply.
Most remember him as a true rock and roll guy with his signature long curly hair, and a passion for motorcycles. Whether riding through town or spending time with friends and family, he found joy in the simple pleasures of life.
Known for his humor and easygoing nature, Rudy got along with everyone he met. He was a friend to the community — someone who could always bring a smile to those around him. His presence was larger than life, and his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Visitation will be held at Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary on Thursday, March 20, from 3 to 7 p.m.
Graveside funeral service will be held at Kelseyville Cemetery on Friday, March 21, at 1 p.m.
Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com.
- Details
- Written by: Elizabeth Larson
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Jacquie was born Aug. 22, 1957, in Martinez, California.
She was the daughter of Cleburne Onnie Smith of Kingston, Arkansas and Nancy Packwood Smith of Nichols, California.
She was blessed with a childhood filled with adventure, living in multiple states including California, Arkansas, Texas, Alabama and Virginia, which instilled in her a passion for life that inspired those around her.
She graduated in 1975 from Marysville High School and married Gary Bonson in Marysville, California.
In 1984, they moved to Lake County, where she thrived in her 25-year career at UPS in Lakeport.
In 2012, she embarked on a new venture, co-founding a family-owned propane business, which became a testament to her determination.
Though Jacquie's life was unexpectedly cut short by a heart attack on Feb. 15, 2025, her legacy lives on.
She is predeceased by her parents, Cleburne and Nancy Smith, and her grandson, Ethan Bonson (survived by Renee).
Her memory will continue to inspire her husband of 50 years, Gary Bonson; sister, Deborah Smith (Gene Glick); brother, James Smith; children, Travis (Ayano), Casey, Lani (Justin); grandchildren, Jayto (Sage), Angelia, Brooke and Donnie; great-granddaughter, Charlee Jean; and countless friends and family members that cherished her.
Jacquie was laid to rest on Feb. 28 at the Hillside Cemetery in Bieber, California, to be near her parents and many other relatives buried there.
Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-995-5611, or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com.
- Details
- Written by: Elizabeth Larson
Dec. 27, 1942 to Nov. 25, 2024
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Robert died suddenly, leaving many parts of the Lucerne community.
He was a wonderful example of how a retired person can care for a community.
He created the Lucerne Community Garden, with the help of FLOW (Friends of Locally Owned Water), building long high garden boxes, hauling dirt and chicken manure, pumping water from the lake into the holding tank, so that gardeners could water their flowers and vegetables.
Robert loved nature and took beautiful enlarged photos of Lake County's wild birds. In partnership with the Audubon Society, to prevent injury to birds and fishes, he created tubes for collecting used fishing line and hung them at boat launches around the lake, emptied them regularly and sent them to be recycled.
At the monthly Fiddler's Jam at the Ely Stage Stop, Robert would dress up in overalls and a straw hat to drive the hay ride for the kids.
For several years, Rob pumped water from the lake and hauled it to the Lucerne Senior Center to water the memorial rose garden. Always one to offer help, he picked up food in Lucerne and delivered it to several needy people. He finished a neighbor's poorly-constructed ramp and added non-skid strips.
Robert was also a musician with a beautiful singing voice. He played guitars with friends every week for years.
He was a very special person and has left large holes in many hearts and lives. His beloved dog Teva is now living with his good friends Willie dog and Karen.
Robert flew free. He left behind his daughters Cheryl Closser and Kathy Patton-Black; grandchildren Kristina Closser, Adam Black, Zachery Closser, Ian Closser; and great-granddaughter Clementine Quincy Closser.
He was preceded in death by his parents Howard and Evelyn Patton and his granddaughter Bethany Closser.
All are welcome to attend a celebration of his life on Saturday, March 29, at the Lucerne Alpine Senior Center, 3985 Country Club Drive at noon. There will be food, and people may bring a dish to share.