Obits

John Davis. Courtesy photo.

LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — It's with great sadness that we announce that John Herbert Davis, beloved father, husband, “papa,” son, uncle and friend passed away peacefully on March 23, 2025.

Born in Lakeport, California, on Sept. 30, 1948, and raised in Kelseyville and Finley, John lived a full life and took tremendous pride in his military service, his family and his roofing business.

He was born to Lola and John Davis as one of 10 children, and in 1967 joined the Army where he proudly served his country with honor and dedication as a combat engineer in Vietnam. He served alongside many other brave people he could call friends and has undoubtedly reunited on the other side with his true friend and "brother" Wayne Mullinix whose passing left a devastating impact on him.

John Davis. Courtesy photo.

John opened and ran his own roofing company called Davis Roofing for 25 years with his wife Debra, where he took great pride in his workmanship. His employees affectionately nicknamed him The GOR (God of Roofing). Those who got a new roof by him got a quality one they could trust was completed with genuine skill, craftsmanship and pride. If it was a roof done by him then he wanted it done right. He loved what he did and worked hard every day to support his family.

John is survived by his wife, Debra; daughters, Sandy (Dan) Johnson, Sarah Davis, Rachel (Nate) Thomas and Katie (Juan) Salguero; and sons, John (Wendy) Davis and Josh Davis.

He is also survived by his many grandchildren: Jacob, Rebecca, Cassandra, Cole, Hunter, Grace, Lola, Briley, Salomon, Nando and Erza; as well as siblings Buddy Davis, Leonard Davis, and Betty (Don) Harr. John also has many nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and friends that he sadly leaves behind.

John was predeceased by his parents Lola and John Davis, as well as brothers Kenneth, Bobby, Billy, Jerry, James and Frank.

John Davis. Courtesy photo.

John's life was defined by his love for his family and his passions. He loved fishing, camping, reading and was an avid sports lover who supported his children and grandchildren in all arenas and often bragged about them all to whomever would listen. His presence at family gatherings and sporting events will be greatly missed. He never missed a Giants or Niners game, even if it meant catching it on the am radio.

John, having been born and raised in Lake County, went on to raise his own family in Kelseyville. He never met a stranger and seemed to know people everywhere he went. He lived life to its fullest and his warmth, humor and strength will live on in all those whose lives he touched.

A celebration of life will be held at the Clear Lake Grange #680 at 1510 Big Valley Road in Finley at 1 p.m. on June 7, 2025. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations be made to a veteran's charity or organization in his honor.

We miss you terribly Dad, but we know you're with us always and forever, until we meet again.

Charles Gitchell. Courtesy photo.

LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Our dearly beloved Charles Lee Gitchell Sr. passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home in Lakeport, California, on Nov. 20, 2024.

He was born on July 6, 1939, in Colorado to his parents John "Jack" William Gitchell and Lillie Grace Hamilton (Gitchell). He was one of 12 siblings.

There must have been a great reunion as he joined with loved ones awaiting him. He was predeceased by his grandparents, parents, one son, Dale Charles Gitchell; brothers, Lynn, John, Frank, and Roger; sisters, Mable and Lillie.

Charles is survived by his loving wife, Donna Wright (Gitchell); brothers, Michael and Curtis; sisters, Ellen, Barbara and Linda; children, Dawn, Robin, Charles Jr. and Sandra; grandchildren, Larry, Royce, Erik, Thomas, Joseph, Vance, Christopher, Mary, Alexandra, Ammon, Natalie and Samantha; seven great-grandchildren; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Charles had a deep love for all of his family and has been well known among his many friends to be very caring and giving and always ready to lend a helping hand. He would often use his expertise of loading trucks and tying off loads to help friends and neighbors who were moving. He has directed the safe loading of large pianos onto U-Haul trucks.

He loved visiting family and friends and attending many social events. He especially loved attending local Native American events and being involved in the gathering and preparation of traditional material used by the Pomo Indian tribes in basket making and even learned to make the baskets.

He loved working in his yard, as well as making things with his hands to give away and make people happy.

He worked in many various industries, logging, saw mills, fishing, agriculture dairy, construction labor and much more.

He enjoyed having fun with his family camping, fishing, cutting firewood, going to the ocean, playing cards and board games, his favorite was chess, watching sci-fi movies, working in the yard and most anything that the family could do together.

We wish to invite all to a celebration of life for Charles to be held on Saturday, April 19, at 11 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 600 16th St. in Lakeport.

Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com.

Patrick Larsen. Courtesy photo.


KELSEYVILLE, Calif. — Patrick Larsen, 76, of Kelseyville passed away peacefully on March 7, 2025.

He was born on Dec. 8, 1948, in Long Beach, California.

Patrick was known for his kindness, generosity and compassion, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

His warmth, humor and dedication to others touched countless lives, and he will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and community.

Patrick was a proud businessman and a well-respected member of the Lakeport and Kelseyville communities.

In 1977, he opened Lake Off Road Center, which he later grew into a larger operation, rebranding it as Royal Automotive in 1989.

After running the business for many years, Patrick sold it to Hector Martinez in 2015. He was immensely proud of Hector and grateful for the care and dedication he showed in continuing the legacy of the business they had built together.

Beyond his business success, Patrick found joy in the great outdoors, particularly through four-wheeling, camping and riding his Harley Davidson motorcycles. His passion for adventure and the open road was only matched by his love for his family.

Pat is survived by his daughter, Heather Koschik, and son-in-law, Jason Koschik; his son, Erick Larsen, and daughter-in-law, Ingrid Larsen; his cherished grandchildren, Emma Larsen, Chase Larsen, Dutch Koschik and Wade Koschik; his brothers, Kit Larsen and Leif Larsen; his sister-in-laws, Chris and Sherri Larsen; his niece, Dena Larsen Gazely; and his nephews, Troy and Nicholas Larsen.

A celebration of life will be held on May 10 at the Lakeport Senior Center, 527 Konocti Ave., Lakeport.

Lunch will be served at 1 p.m. and there will be beverages and an open mic for anyone wishing to share their memories of Patrick.

Patrick's legacy of kindness, hard work, and love for his family and friends will live on in all who knew him. May he rest in peace.

Cheryl Ann Johnson. Courtesy photo.

Cheryl Ann Johnson
Feb. 25, 1955 — March 14, 2025

KELSEYVILLE, Calif. — With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Cheryl Ann Johnson, a beloved mother, grandmother, daughter and friend.

Cheryl passed away peacefully in her home in Kelseyville on March 14, 2025, surrounded by her loving family and friends.

Born on Feb. 25, 1955, Cheryl lived a life filled with love, kindness and dedication to those she cherished.

She was the most loving mother one could ever ask for, always putting her family first and offering unwavering support, warmth and wisdom. Her presence brought joy and comfort to all who knew her.

Cheryl is predeceased by her mother, Allene Gray of Los Angeles, and her beloved spouse, Paul Spangler, with whom she shared 30 wonderful years before his passing just a year prior.

She is survived by her father, who resides in Los Angeles; her two devoted children, Kelly Kostka and Tyler Kostka of Kelseyville; and her sister, Fawn Gray.

Her legacy continues through her five cherished grandchildren, Dristen Figuera (27), Taylor Nolan (26), Jaden Jensen (20), Peyton Nolan (14) and Kaleb Kostka (5), all of whom she adored beyond measure.

For nearly two decades, Cheryl poured her heart into running her own antique store, a passion that brought her immense joy. She had a deep appreciation for history and beauty, finding treasures in the past and sharing them with the world.

Cheryl was more than just a mother, grandmother, and daughter — she was a sister, cousin, and dear friend to many. Her absence has left a profound void in our hearts, but her love, laughter, and kindness will remain with us forever.

A celebration of Cheryl’s life will be held at a later date to honor the beautiful soul she was. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her memory to a charity of your choice. Her charity of choice that she donated to monthly was St. Jude.

She will be forever missed and never forgotten.

Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com.

Kristin Snyder. Courtesy photo.

Kristin Marie Snyder
June 30, 1947 – March 16, 2025

LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Kristin Marie Snyder, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2025.

Born on June 30, 1947, in Redwood City, California, Kristin lived a life full of love, dedication and adventure.

Kristin graduated from the University of San Francisco in 1969 with a degree in nursing. Shortly after, she moved to Oahu, Hawaii, where she met the love of her life, Leslie Merton Snyder. They were married on May 7, 1972, and shared 49 wonderful years until Leslie's passing.

Kristin is survived by her son, Martin Leslie Snyder and his wife, Jaqueline, and their daughter, Kerrington; and her daughter, Aubrey Kathleen Snyder and her wife, Erica Brents, and their sons, Maxwell and Henry.

Kristin's family was her pride and joy, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

A dedicated nurse for over 40 years, Kristin made a significant impact in the lives of countless patients, particularly in the intensive care and labor and delivery units. Her compassion and expertise were evident in her work, and she was deeply respected by her colleagues.

Kristin had an insatiable thirst for knowledge. She was always crafting, traveling and reading a wide variety of books. Her love for learning was matched by her love for community. She had a diverse group of friends, from her fellow cloggers at the Clear Lake Clickers to her book club members. Kristin's smile and kindness touched many lives, and she was well-loved by all who knew her.

Kristin's legacy of love, learning and service will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed.

Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com.

Danielle Jackson. Courtesy photo.

LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Danielle Victoria Jackson, with a heart full of love and a spirit as fierce as the winds, closed her eyes here on earth and opened them in Heaven on March 14, 2025.

She passed peacefully at the home she shared with her beloved son and brother-in-law on the Upper Lake Rancheria, where she spent the majority of her beautiful and well-lived life.

Danielle leaves behind a legacy of love in her cherished children, Brittany Dennison (Austin Ables) and Anthony Dennison; her treasured granddaughters, Serenity and Melody Ables; her devoted sisters, Amber Jackson, Aimee Jackson-Penn, Anna Jackson (Ben Crone) and Rebecca Jackson (Jason Compton); and her caring brothers, Joseph Rahmer, James Penn and Kyle Williams. Her family extended far and wide, with cherished nieces and nephews too numerous to name, a loving father-in-law Brian Dennison Sr., and a second mother in Ronda Beckett. She is also deeply missed by her adoring cousins, and her Auntie Jessica "Lori" Jackson.

She reunites in Heaven with her loving parents, Anthony and Connie Jackson; her precious daughter, Clorissa Dennison; her sister, Melissa Rahmer; and her baby niece, Aubree Solorio.

Danielle embodied strength, independence and love throughout her life. She was a warrior, fiercely loyal and unwavering in her care for family and friends. To be loved by her was to be truly blessed.

Known as “Auntie Dabby” to her many nieces and nephews, she brought joy and laughter wherever she went. Danielle found happiness in family gatherings, barbeques and the special moments spent with her granddaughters. She shared her adventurous spirit through hobbies like axe and knife throwing and shooting, often alongside her beloved cousins, Ezra and Squeeks. Above all, she was a devoted mother, sister, auntie and friend, whose love will continue to shine in the hearts of all she touched.

Though her sudden passing leaves us heartbroken, we find comfort in knowing that Danielle is now free from pain, healed by the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She is reunited with those who went before her, bringing peace to her soul and joy to their reunion.

A graveside service to honor Danielle will be held on Monday, March 24, at 12:30 p.m. at the Upper Lake Tribal Cemetery.

Following the service, all are invited to join her loved ones at the Habematolel Community Building for a meal in her memory. Together, we will share stories, celebrate her life, and honor her beautiful spirit.

Ohana, our sweet sister Danny-Doo, we love you deeply and hold you close in our hearts. Until we see you and Missy again, our sister hearts will not be whole.

Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com.

Upcoming Calendar

28 May
Potter Valley Project town hall
MOD_DPCALENDAR_UPCOMING_DATE 05.28.2025 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — A town hall will bring together leaders from around the North Coast to discuss the potential decommissioning of the dams in...

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30 May
Harlem Voices Project
05.30.2025 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
LAKEPORT, Calif. — the “Harlem Voices Project,” Clovice Lewis Jr.’s opus work exploring Black cultural history and modern justice through...

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31 May
Harlem Voices Project
05.31.2025 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
LAKEPORT, Calif. — the “Harlem Voices Project,” Clovice Lewis Jr.’s opus work exploring Black cultural history and modern justice through...

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1 Jun
Harlem Voices Project
06.01.2025 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
LAKEPORT, Calif. — the “Harlem Voices Project,” Clovice Lewis Jr.’s opus work exploring Black cultural history and modern justice through...

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2 Jun
Commercial loan workshop
06.02.2025 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
LAKEPORT, Calif. — Lake County Economic Development Corp. will host a workshop for local entrepreneurs and small business owners looking to secure...

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7 Jun
Redwood Credit Union Shred-a-Thon
06.07.2025 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
LOWER LAKE, Calif. — Redwood Credit Union invites Lake County residents to be proactive and attend its annual free Shred-a-Thon.

The event will be held...

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7 Jun
Cobb Mountain Forest Summit
06.07.2025 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
COBB, Calif. — Residents, forestland owners, and fire and forestry service business owners are invited to attend the first Cobb Mountain Forest...

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23 Jun
Commercial loan workshop
06.23.2025 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
CLEARLAKE, Calif. — Lake County Economic Development Corp. will host a workshop for local entrepreneurs and small business owners looking to secure...

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