LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael A. Icay on Feb. 16, 2025, at the age of 83.

Michael was a devoted father, grandfather, uncle, brother and a cherished friend to many. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his humor will not be forgotten.

Born on July 18, 1941, in Upper Lake, California to Samson Zabel Icay and Verna Treppa Icay Ramos.

Michael grew up on the Upper Lake Rancheria and graduated from Upper Lake High School in 1959. He served in the Army and graduated from Heald Business School.

He worked hard throughout his life to provide for his family, and his dedication and strength were evident in everything he did.

Michael's greatest joy came from spending time with his family. He was the proud father of Michael D. Icay, Danielle Icay-Cirelli and Eric F. Icay and he was blessed with seven grandchildren. His grandchildren, Gabby Cirelli, Drew Cirelli, John Cirelli, Ava Icay, Dylan Icay, Sophia Icay and Carmella Icay loved to spend time with him enjoying many days on Clear Lake.

His family was his world, and he shared many happy memories with them traveling, watching his grandchildren excel at many sports, and spending time enjoying the lake. He would always say, “Lake life is the best life!” He also had a passion for gardening, antiquing and all things nautical.

Michael was a proud member of the Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake where he had previously served on the Executive Council, chaired several committees and most recently served as Chairman of the Tribal Gaming Commission. Michael also worked as executive director at Lake Country Tribal Health as well as general manager at Robinson Casino. He was committed to helping the Native American community.

Funeral service will be held at Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 1, where family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Michael’s life. Interment will follow at Upper Lake Cemetery.

Though Michael is no longer with us, his memory will live on in our hearts forever.

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

LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Lee Allen Woodruff.

Lee Allen Woodruff, 42, of Kelseyville, California (by way of Inverness, Florida), passed away on Feb. 11, 2025.

He was born on Dec. 14, 1982, at the Naval Regional Medical Center in Port Hueneme, California, to Leslee and Steven Woodruff.

Years after his family put down roots in Inverness, Florida, Lee’s heart led him back to California. He embraced both states as his hometowns, always finding his way back to the people and places that meant the most to him.

Lee never met a stranger, lived unapologetically on his own terms and found happiness in the simple things. His love for people was undeniable, whether it was family, friends or those who blurred the line between the two.

He could strike up a conversation at a gig or even a quick run to the store and many of those conversations would turn into lasting connections. This past year, he found love with Sammie, and together they had just celebrated their one-year anniversary.

A talented guitarist, Lee recently joined the band G.NADA (Spotify), pouring his heart into the music he loved. But his passions extended far beyond music. He was a black belt in karate and a die-hard hockey fan. His love for the Tampa Bay Lightning (Bolts) ran so deep that he even decorated his home in their team colors, making sure everyone knew exactly where his loyalty stood.

Lee leaves behind his parents, Leslee and Steven Woodruff; aunts and uncles; his fiancée, Samantha Barton; their dog, Lucy; his sister, CaSandra Minichiello (Christy); his brothers, Scott Robbins (Koey) and Michael Robbins; many cousins; and nieces who adored their Uncle Lee, including his newly welcomed great-nephew.

He also leaves behind his “California Family,” Cindi (aka “Ma”), Steve and their daughter, Kim Brozynski. We are forever grateful for the kindness, love and care they showed him.

Lee's presence was a force, and his absence will be deeply felt by the countless people whose lives he touched. He wouldn’t want a sad goodbye, so a celebration of life in Florida is planned for March 8, in which details will be shared privately through friends, family and social media.

Private cremation will be handled by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary in Lakeport, California.

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

In Loving Memory of Sheila Kay Porter

LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Sheila Porter, a cherished soul, passed away on Feb. 10, 2025.

Born on Sept. 8, 1955, she filled every space with warmth, laughter and love.

Sheila lived with an open heart, spreading kindness and joy effortlessly. Her bright spirit and compassion, and unwavering love will never be forgotten. She was a blessing to the world and will always remain in our hearts.

She is survived by her children, Ray, Christi and Julie; her sisters, Selena and Catherine; her mother, Marcia; her nephew and niece, Patrick and Jessica; grandchildren, and extended family.

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

IN LOVING MEMORY OF BILL DRYDEN

Bill Dryden was born on July 10, 1944, in Sacramento, California, and went to heaven on Jan. 16, 2025.

A beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, Bill leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and song, plus a lifetime of unforgettable memories.

Bill loved deeply. He is survived by his brother, Mike Dryden; his wife of 59 years, Elizabeth Dryden; his three daughters, Cindy Conway, Debbie Dryden-Bera and Robyn Bera; and his sons-in-law, Jim Dryden-Bera and Dennis Bera. His memory lives on through his five grandchildren, Shoun, Montana, Kody, Skylar and Maya; and his great-granddaughter, Lilith. Bill cherished his family and each of his grandchildren.

Bill was preceded in death by his beloved granddaughter Arielle Dryden-Bera, who passed too early in life. They are reunited now, along with the rest of Bill’s family, fishing together in heaven. It was his fun-loving smile, deep belly laugh, generosity and warm hugs that won hearts.

Bill worked in agriculture in the almond industry in management and sales. He was loved by his employees who viewed him as a mentor. He freely shared his wisdom and kindness. He traveled to several countries selling almonds and was respected in his field before retiring in 2003 and moving to Lake County.

Bill enjoyed the beauty and friendliness in Lake County and he made it his home for the last 22 years of his life. He had the time to travel with his family to beautiful places locally and all over the United States. Elizabeth is grateful to have shared 59 years of marriage with her best friend. Life was exciting and adventurous and every new road, restaurant, or destination, started a new journey and carved a new memory.

Bill’s daughters and sons view him as accepting and generous. He was a “second father” to countless friends throughout the years. He was known to welcome most anyone to his dinner table and often said a “good steak will cure ya.” He lives on through his family recipes and a shared love of cooking.

His grandchildren are devastated by this loss but they find solace in the many memories of camping and fishing and outdoor trips. They remember the lessons about plants and animals and the campfire stories. They will remember him saying that “nature is my church” and the youngest of grandkids will remember being chased by “Grandpasaurus” while roaring and stomping through the house.

During the final years of his life, Bill had chronic illnesses but he was determined to fight and do what he needed to live. Life was still joyful with surprises interwoven into everyday routines.
He was smiling until the very end. He was a role model to everyone he met. We will miss this wonderful person. May Bill’s love, wisdom, strength and hugs live forever in our hearts.

Please join us in celebration of Bill Dryden’s life on Saturday, March 15, at 1 p.m. at the Chapel of the Lakes at 1625 N. High St. in Lakeport, California.

Jose Sonato
March 17, 1979 - Jan. 31, 2025

LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Jose Sonato was born on March 17, 1979, in Charo Michoacan, Mexico.

Jose was a beloved husband, father, son, brother and friend who now leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and unforgettable memories.

Jan. 31, 2025, was the day his family had to say goodbye as he took his last breath.

Jose is survived by his wife, Luz Maria; his three daughters, Karina, Sarahi and Liliana; and his only son, Josue.

He was not only a great husband but also an amazing father who will be greatly missed. He ensured to let his family know that no matter what he was going through, they were always his first option. Jose was completely and entirely dedicated to his loved ones.

Jose was the kind of person who worked tirelessly to provide for his family, ensuring that everyone around him was cared for and happy. He was kind, patient, generous, and always ready to lend a helping hand. Whether fixing something around the house or sharing a laugh with friends, he made life brighter for everyone.

Jose came to the US at the young age of 14, with a dream to help his family that he left behind in Mexico live a better life. On his path he found a love for agriculture and continued to work in the fields for over 30 years.

Working in the fields wasn’t his only passion; even on his days off he found the time to teach himself many skills that in life he used to help many others. This helped him throughout life because he was able to build his own family a place to call home.

Those who had the pleasure of knowing him will now miss him greatly. The pain we feel is a reflection of the love we had for Jose. We will strive to keep his memory alive, laughing as we recall his jokes and stories. For now we wait until we can see and hold him again, Revelation 21:3,4.

Graveside funeral services will be held on Friday, Feb. 14, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Kelseyville Cemetery.

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

LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Paul Kelly Medlin was born on Dec. 24, 1954, to Shirley Jean and Elvin Kelly Medlin.

He graduated from Calaveras High School in 1973, attended San Joaquin Delta College and later received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Humphreys College in 1987.

During his college years Paul worked as a firefighter for the National Forest Service and never lost his love for the outdoors. He was a forest fire lookout volunteer in Lake County for several years.

In recent years he also became actively involved in Clear Lake State Park Interpretive Association (CLSPIA) and spent many hours enjoying the park. When he wasn’t in the state park he loved spending time in his garden at home with his devoted dog by his side.

After college, he pursued a career in nursing home administration which spanned more than 20 years. A job opportunity that resulted in Paul relocating to Lake County with his wife and two sons in 1997. He chose to remain in Lake County following his retirement. Paul appreciated all that Lake County has to offer the outdoorsman.

Paul was a man of faith, loving husband, devoted father and grandfather, and faithful friend. He was an active member of Grace Church, Kelseyville and led a weekly men’s bible study for more than 20 years. He was also a volunteer puppy raiser for Canine Companions for Independence.

Paul went to his forever home in heaven on Jan. 5, 2025.

He is survived by his mother, Shirley; brother, Philip; sisters, Cheryl and Patty; wife, Kathy; sons, Andrew and Michael; and granddaughters, Trinity, Naomi, Eden and Autumn.

A celebration of life service will be held at Grace Church, Kelseyville on Feb. 22 at 1:30 p.m.

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