Obits
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- Written by: Elizabeth Larson
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Robert James “Bob” Folmar passed away on Oct. 11, 2025, in Kelseyville, California, at the age of 87 with his children by his side.
Born on March 15, 1938, in Ohio, Bob lived a life defined by service, dedication and devotion to his family.
As a young boy, Bob moved to California with his parents. He graduated from Mendocino High School in Mendocino in 1955 in a class made up of just 14 seniors.
Shortly thereafter, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy on March 13, 1956 — just two days before his 18th birthday. He served honorably as an Electrician aboard the USS Hornet CV-12, a storied aircraft carrier now preserved as the “Grey Ghost” museum in Alameda, California.
After three years of faithful service, Bob was honorably discharged on February 27, 1959. His time in the Navy remained a meaningful chapter in his life, and he later attended several reunions with fellow shipmates from the USS Hornet. Before he passed, Bob was one of only two sailors still living who served together.
While on leave during his military service, Bob met Patricia “Pat,” who would become his wife of nearly 47 years. They were married on April 19, 1959, less than two months after his discharge from the Navy. Together they built a life grounded in love and shared purpose.
Following his military service, Bob began a distinguished 38-year career with the California Department of Transportation (CalTrans). He started in District 3 in Sacramento, where he and Pat started raising their three children. Later, he transferred to Sonora before ultimately settling in Lake County in 1976 when he moved to District 1 to be closer to Pat’s family.
Bob retired in 1997 after decades of dedicated public service that left a lasting mark on the communities he helped support through infrastructure and transportation development.
Bob was a man who found joy in the outdoors and treasured time spent with family. He looked forward to annual hunting trips and especially cherished fishing outings with his son and grandsons. Family gatherings were a highlight of his life — particularly those centered around food — where he earned and embraced his affectionate nickname, “Yogi.”
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patricia Folmar; his parents, Louise and Robert A. Folmar; and his sister, Sue Ann Folmar.
Bob is survived by his brother, Dave Folmar (Sandy); his son, Robert D. Folmar (Stacey) and their sons Robby (Ashley) and Garrett (Audi); his daughter Janet Folmar (Brian), her son Dylan and grandson Jax; and his daughter Sharon Gunther (Bobby), their son Dalton (Rebecca) and grandchildren Rylee, Wyatt, and Aubrey; as well as their daughters Corteney (Ryan) and Amber (Dave) and granddaughter Brooke.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, Nov. 1, at noon at the American Legion Hall located at 5005 Second St. in Kelseyville.
Bob’s legacy is one of steadfast service to his country and community, enduring family bonds, and a well-lived life. May his memory bring comfort and peace to those who knew him.
- Details
- Written by: Elizabeth Larson
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Azella Rose Rehe (known as Granna to her grandkids) passed away in her Clearlake Oaks home on Sept. 8, 2025.
She was born Azella Rose Lewis on June 1, 1937, in Sullivan, Illinois.
Azella was an avid dancer from a young age, and became a dance instructor early on. At the age of 20 she married her husband of 65 years, Arthur Rehe and together, they built a life, business and family.
Moving to Lake County in 1970, she continued to teach dance, assisted in building Arthur's chiropractic offices, and, in later years, became a travel agent.
Azella was loved deeply by her family, both immediate and distant. Her love for her family, coupled with her love of travel would often see her on trains, planes, and automobiles to visit family and foreign places.
Azella was preceded in death by both parents, her three big brothers and her husband.
She leaves behind her son, Rod; daughter, Rena; her five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; her younger sister, Carol; and many nieces and nephews. Azella holds a truly special place in their hearts.
Regardless of her passing, her love for her family permeates their lives indefinitely. Anyone who knew her knows the love she freely gave will be greatly missed.
A memorial service will be held at Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary on Saturday, Nov. 8, at 2 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
“In my time of dying, want nobody to mourn. All I want for you to do is take my body home.” – Led Zeppelin.
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Raymond Phillips, 63, of Nice, died peacefully from cancer at the end of September 2025, while holding the hands of his daughters Kehaulani and Maheanani.
With family, friends, and a guitar always nearby, Ray lived life full of love and music. Though music was his first love, his greatest love was for his wife Pamela. Their marriage was beautiful, their bond unshakable, and though she passed six years ago, he carried her memory with him in every step, honoring their love song daily.
Family was at the core of everything he did. He took the most pride in being a father, granddad, brother, and friend. His grandchildren, his beloved “nuggets,” were his shining stars, each one treasured beyond measure. Whether strumming a guitar, telling a story, spouting out random facts and movie quotes, or simply being present, he poured endless love and laughter into their lives.
Ray leaves behind his daughters, Kehaulani and Maheanani; stepchildren, Misty and Danny; son-in-laws, Anthony, Lou, and James; grandchildren, Kyle, Geno, Makehla, Donavan, Gabriella, Marley, Julian, Pammie, Olive, Corbin, Ryan, and Noah; great-grandchildren, Geno, Han, and Effie (on the way); siblings, Jed, Jimmie, Carol, Nancy, and Meegan. He is predeceased by his wife, Pamela; sister, Patricia; and son-in-law, Joshua.
Ray’s legacy is one of music, love and laughter. The notes of his life may have faded, but the song remains steady, vibrant and unforgettable.
Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com.
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