Obits
- Details
- Written by: Elizabeth Larson
Margaret Mary O’Farrell
Dec 12, 1928 - Aug. 3, 2025
Born in Tipperary, Ireland – Passed peacefully in Lakeport, California
Margaret O’Farrell, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and teacher, passed away peacefully at her home in Lakeport, California.
She was the eldest of 10 Downey siblings, born in Tipperary, Ireland, where her early years were shaped by a strong sense of family and faith.
At the age of 14, Margaret moved to Manchester, England, to pursue her passion for teaching, an endeavor that would become her life’s work. It was there she met her beloved husband, Patrick O’Farrell. Together, they welcomed two sons, Guy and Leo, before immigrating to San Francisco in 1962 to be near Margaret’s sister, Teresa, a registered nurse.
In San Francisco, Margaret earned her California teaching credential from Lone Mountain College and began teaching in local schools in the Inner Richmond District. She later gave birth to her third son, Shane. The family eventually settled in Larkspur, where their youngest son, Conor, was born, and the older children attended local Catholic schools.
In 1971, following Patrick’s real estate work, the family moved to Lake County, living in both Riviera West in Kelseyville and on Big Valley Road in Lakeport. Margaret continued teaching and remained deeply committed to her children’s education and well-being. After her older sons began college, she relocated to Santa Barbara in 1977 to be closer to Teresa’s family, where she continued raising her younger sons and teaching in local schools.
Margaret retired from teaching in 1989 and returned to her cherished home on Big Valley Road. She dedicated her retirement to restoring the property, supported by the love and labor of friends and family. Maggie loved singing songs and having cups of tea. She found joy in simple pleasures – taking walks and having company over.
In 2012, a fall resulted in a brain injury that marked a new chapter in her life. Though she could no longer drive, Margaret recovered and spent several years living independently in Alameda, where she enjoyed the island’s parks, churches and vibrant community life.
In 2018, she returned once more to Lakeport, where she remained until her passing. With the dedicated support of the Lakeport Senior Center, Meals on Wheels, St. Mary’s Church parishioners, caregivers and health care providers, she was able to live out her final years with dignity and grace in the home she loved.
Margaret is survived by her siblings, Mary, Teresa, Kathleen, Thomas and Noreen; her sons, Leo and Conor; and their children respectively, Darnell, Paige, Trevor, Kendall, and Patrick, Shannon and Bridget. She is also fondly remembered by her many nieces and nephews, including California-based Patric, Noreen and Rosaleen.
Margaret’s strength, warmth and unwavering devotion to her family, faith and friends leaves a lasting legacy. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Visitation will be Friday, Aug. 8, from 4 to 6 p.m. with Rosary starting at 6 p.m. at Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary in Lakeport. Catholic Mass will be at St. Mary immaculate in Lakeport on Saturday, Aug. 9, at 11 a.m. with interment to follow at Saint Mary's Catholic Cemetery.
Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com.
- Details
- Written by: Elizabeth Larson
Joan (Joanie) Alice Andregg
June 26, 1952 – June 18, 2025
Joanie was raised in Modesto, California. She worked 40-plus years as a bookkeeper, most recently at Quality Door.
Joanie was loyal, loving, generous, kind, organized, disciplined, and always ready with the perfect gift/nickname for family and dear friends.
She was an excellent cook, accomplished ice skater, passionate about gardening, fishing, knitting and archaeology.
Joanie leaves behind her loving husband of 31 years, David (Bud) Andregg; children, Clint Andregg and Dannette Cruz, and their families; a sister and nephew and his family.
Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com.
- Details
- Written by: Elizabeth Larson
Walter ‘Wally’ Schlicher
1943-2025
It is with deep sorrow and cherished memories that we say goodbye to Wally, a man whose lively spirit, quick wit, and generosity touched all who knew him. He passed away after a long battle with dementia on July 7, 2025.
Wally was born on January 21, 1943, in Florida. After World War II, his family moved to Hoboken, New Jersey where he grew up. Following his service in the Marine Corps, Wally relocated to San Francisco, California where he met his wife, Susan.
Wally’s first career was as a firefighter in Hillsborough, California. In 1976, he and Susan moved their family to Lakeport, California, where Wally found fulfillment as a general contractor, specializing in building swimming pools. His work reflected his dedication to creating spaces for family and community to enjoy.
A devoted husband of 61 years to his beloved Susan, Wally was also a loving father to Brad (and his wife Wendy) and Janell (and her husband Shawn); a proud grandfather to Kaylee, Ryland, Chelsea (and her husband Jeromy); and great-grandfather to Blake and Callie. Family was his greatest joy.
A passionate fan of Jimmy Buffett, Wally embodied the easy-going, island-inspired spirit of his favorite music. He was known for his quick wit, infectious humor, kindness and generosity, often surprising friends at the Lake County Fair with wine coolers and supporting causes close to his heart.
Wally was also an active member of his community, serving as a Lakeport planning commissioner for eight years and president of Little League. He dedicated his time as a supporter of 4-H and was a livestock weigh master at the Lake County Fair.
Wally's spirit, laughter and warmth will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
A celebration of Wally's life will be held to honor a man who lived to bring joy to others. In his memory, a fund is being created at Lake County 4-H to assist with unexpected veterinary bills and scholarships to 4-H camp. Please contact the family for more information.
Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com.
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