Obits
- Details
- Written by: Elizabeth Larson
John ‘Jack’ De Maria
1933-2025
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — John “Jack” De Maria of Lakeport, California, passed away peacefully at home on Dec. 18, 2025.
He was born on Aug. 3, 1933, in Daly City, California, Jack lived each of his 92 years to the fullest, embracing every moment and opportunity that life presented.
After completing his schooling in San Francisco, Jack chose to serve his country by enlisting in the Army at the age of 18. He dedicated the next two years to serving in Korea. Jack took great pride in his service, demonstrated by the Korean Veteran Flag he proudly flew in his yard. He often reflected on how his time in Korea shaped him into a better man.
Upon returning home, Jack joined Local Union No 38 and worked as a plumber and pipe fitter. His career led him to a new opportunity at the Bremerton Shipyard in Washington, marking the beginning of another adventure. It was in Washington that Jack met Donna, who would become his wife of 56 years, and together they welcomed two daughters, Nicole and Lisa, into their lives.
In 1976, the De Maria family moved to Lake County to be closer to relatives, establishing their home and building a life surrounded by loved ones. The door was always open and a glass of wine at the ready.
Jack was never afraid to try something new. He saw each day as a chance for adventure and was always searching for ways to improve or make life easier. He was extremely proud of the fact that he was awarded a United States Patent at the age of 90.
Jack is survived by his wife Donna; daughter, Nicole (Paul); daughter, Lisa; three grandchildren, Mark Anthony, Grace and Joshua; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was a kind man who will be greatly missed.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary. Everyone is welcome to join the family at their home afterwards.
Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com. 
- Details
- Written by: Elizabeth Larson
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Lloyd C. Stottsberry passed away December 9, 2025. He was 83. He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Carol Stottsberry (March 24, 2024).
Lloyd was born in Flagstaff, Arizona. He joined the United States Marine Corps on July 29, 1959, in Phoenix, Arizona. He underwent recruit training in San Diego, California.
His colorful career includes attending several Marine Corps schools. Among them were the
communications technician’s school in Pensacola; the AN/TSC-15 course at Camp Lejeune; the basic electrician’s course; the TP-TT technicians’ course; and the digital log course.
Master Sergeant Stottsberry was a Vietnam veteran, having served with the communications battalion while in Vietnam as a cryptologist. During his last tour with the Marine Corps, he was chief recruiting officer of Northern California.
His service decorations include the Navy Achievement Medal with Combat “V,” the Combat Action Ribbon, the Meritorious Unit Citation, and the Good Conduct Medal with one silver star.
While being a recruiter, he was a Concord reserve police officer and also worked in the Concord jail. It was during this time he earned an associate’s degree in criminal justice.
After retirement from the USMC, Lloyd got a job with PG&E as a power plant operator in Pittsburg, California. In 1982, Lloyd transferred with PG&E to the Geysers power plants, moving his family and relocating to Cobb Mountain, California. He eventually retired after 20 years as a
senior power plant operator. During this time, he was a volunteer firefighter with the South Lake County Fire Department.
After retirement from PG&E, he became a member of the Lake County Honor Guard team, comprised of all branches of the military services, which he was very proud of.
Lloyd kept himself busy with numerous ventures, such as starting a water trucking company known as Stottsberry Trucking, having his youngest son Keith drive with him. They worked with Cal Fire. Other interests were sturgeon fishing, RVing across the country with his wife Carol, and stopping either at Reno or Las Vegas to play the slot machines. Most of all, he enjoyed camping with family and friends, especially Bill and Debbie Burnett.
Lloyd is survived by his three sons, Lloyd (Kat), Larry and Keith (Gayle); along with five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
Lloyd and Carol will be laid to rest together, per their request, on Jan. 23, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Hartley Cemetery at Veteran’s Circle with military honors.
- Details
- Written by: Elizabeth Larson
Marlene Estella Williams
1967 -2025
Marlene was born Oct. 9, 1967, and gained her wings on Dec. 10, 2025, surrounded by love, leaving behind a legacy of strength, compassion and devotion to family.
She was a loving wife, daughter, mother, grandmother and friend whose presence brought comfort and warmth to those who knew her.
She was born in El Salvador, raised in San Francisco, and later came to Clear Lake, where she attended high school and spent her later years close to those she loved.
She is survived by her beloved mother, Mary, age 100, whose strength and longevity she deeply admired. Marlene was a devoted mother to her four children: Mary, Anthony, Marlene Jr., and Anthony Jr., each of whom carries forward her values, resilience, and love. She was also a proud and cherished grandmother to her grandchild, Aiden, who brought her immense joy.
Marlene’s life was defined by her unwavering dedication to her family and the meaningful connections she formed with friends and extended family. Her kindness, generosity, and enduring spirit touched many lives, and she will be remembered for the love she gave so freely.
Those who knew Marlene knew her as someone who loved deeply and gave selflessly. She found meaning in caring for others, offering comfort through her presence, warmth, and kindness. Her strength was gentle, her heart generous, and her love enduring.
She leaves behind a large circle of family and friends who will continue to honor her memory through love, remembrance, and the stories they share.
Marlene will be deeply missed and forever held in the hearts of those who loved her.
Funeral service will be held at Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary on Saturday, Dec. 27, at 1 p.m.
Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit chapelofthelakes.com.
