Obits
Sgt. Michael A. Willoughby
March 4, 1967 – Dec. 28, 2022
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Family and friends mourn the loss of Michael A. Willoughby, loving father, husband, PopPop, and true friend.
He passed away in his sleep of natural causes on Dec. 28, 2022.
Mike grew up in Philadelphia, the oldest of three children.
He joined the Army at age 19 and rose to the rank of sergeant.
He met Crystal in 2013 when they both worked at a motorcycle assembly factory. They became close friends.
Then Mike was called to return to service in the Army. When he returned home, he discovered that Crystal had moved 3,000 miles away to California. He came to visit her and proposed on Valentine’s Day in 2015.
Mike and Crystal were married on March 6, 2015, two days after Mike’s birthday so he would never forget their anniversary!
What Mike loved the most was his family. He was his family’s protector, and they always felt safe with him. His wife and Sunshine, Crystal, children Ray-Ray, Max, Carlos, Margarita, Junior, and grandchildren, Adelina, Jelani and Amberliz.
He also had a love-hate relationship with daughter, Martha, but he always wanted the best for her.
Mike loved to cook and made great meals for everyone. He also prepared delicious ribs, chicken and pork shoulder on his smoker that he was very proud of.
He enjoyed sharing memorable stories about his time in the Army, and how he made it through Desert Storm.
Mike will be remembered for his good attitude and willingness to pitch in and help. He had an infectious laugh, and a silly side that made others feel comfortable.
He will also be remembered as what a dad should be. He lived to protect Ray-Ray, who has autism and Mike was very good at keeping him safe and happy.
The legacy that Mike leaves is strong. He was loyal, dedicated and there for his family in good times and bad times. He always gave it 100 percent.
Although he left too soon, his family knows he is still watching over them.
- Details
- Written by: Elizabeth Larson
Josefina Austín Romero
April 15, 1925 - Jan. 7, 2023
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Josefina A. Romero at the age of 97, who was surrounded by loved ones, on Jan. 7, 2023.
She was a beloved friend, sister, aunt, wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.
Josefina was born on April 15, 1925, in Mexico City, Mexico to Consuelo Austín Vidaña and Jesus Austín.
She married Rogelio M. Romero in 1948. Together, in 1955 they immigrated from Mexico City to Los Angeles. Soon after, they laid down roots in La Mirada to raise their nine children.
Josefina's life was a testament to her power of determination and resilience. Born from humble beginnings, she never let her circumstances define her. Instead, she worked tirelessly to provide a better life for her family. Her passions in life were many, and none more important to her than her family.
Throughout her life, Josefina lived with a sense of adventure and relished the independence of being a free spirit. She welcomed new additions to the family with open arms and a caring heart.
Her playfulness, tenacity, sense of wit and exceptional cooking skills will forever be cherished. More than anything, Josefina will be remembered for being a constant source of love and support to her family.
Josefina was predeceased by her loving husband, Rogelio M. Romero; son, Jose Luis del Pozo; daughter, Sylvia Nett; and sister, Luz Vidaña Austín.
She is survived by her brother, Agustín Galicia; her children, Carmen Sahagun, Hank Romero, Rosa Hartzog, Georgina Goff, Dolores Smith, Martha Mezzanatto and Oscar Romero; her nieces, Carmen Lugo, Consuelo Granados, Josefina Pech and Georgina Pech; along with 27 grandchildren; and 37 great-grandchildren.
Josefina’s Going Home Celebration will be hosted at Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary on Saturday, Jan. 28 at 1 p.m.
Josefina’s final resting place will be at Olive Lawn Memorial Park in La Mirada, California.
Care entrusted to Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary FD1336, www.chapeklofthelakes.com, Lakeport, telephone 707-263-0357.
- Details
- Written by: Elizabeth Larson
LAKEPORT, Calif. — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Roberta Tawney-Merchen of Lakeport on Jan. 4, 2023, while surrounded by her children.
Roberta was born to Parents Ervin and Elsie Turner on Nov. 17, 1931, in Arizona.
Roberta was preceded in death by her parents, three sisters, five brothers, husband and daughter Jackie.
Roberta is survived by her sister, Elsie; daughters, Charlene and Deborah; and son Phillip as well as numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren. Although there are too many to list individually, Roberta loved all her family members immensely.
Roberta played an active role in her community for many years and served at the Lakeport Elks Lodge for 22 years as a member and trustee.
She was also a member of various organizations around Lake County.
A celebration of life is to be held at 2:30 p.m. on Jan. 28, at the Lakeport Elks Lodge located at 3775 Lakeshore Blvd, Lakeport.
In lieu of flowers, her family asks that donations be made to Elks Lodge #2704 in her memory.
Care entrusted to Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary FD1336, www.chapelofthelakes.com, Lakeport, telephone 707-263-0357.
- Details
- Written by: Elizabeth Larson
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