Obituaries

May 22, 2024 In the tapestry of life, Gail Nadine Lotspeich Sampson was a vibrant thread, weaving warmth, and love into the lives she touched. On May 22, 2024, at the age of 78, Gail concluded her earthly journey, passing away at her home Hemet, California, after a courageous struggle with ALS. Gail’s legacy is cherished by her beloved husband Terry Sampson, her children Kimberley (Jeff) Leivo, Karen Sampson, and Patrick (Norma) Sampson; her siblings William (Nancy) Lotspeich, and Sandra (James) Walchel. Her life’s melody resonates through her nine grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren, each a note in her harmonious symphony. She joins in eternal rest her father Herb, her mother Leona, and her sister Audrey (Bob) Wimberly. Gail was born in Palmdale, California, on November 22, 1945, the youngest child of Leona and Herb Lotspeich. Gail’s early childhood was spent in Hanford, California, and Easton, California, where she was always chasing after her brother, sisters and cousins. The Lotspeich family laid the foundation of finding joy in family that Gail was known for. When the family moved to Norwalk, California, Gail attended Lampton Elementary, Los Alisos Jr. High, and Excelsior High Schools. At these schools, Gail met many lifelong friends, who introduced her to the love of her life, Terry Sampson. After a whirlwind romance, and a little nudge from cousin Steve, Terry and Gail joined their lives in marriage in February, 1964. Together they crafted a home filled with love, joy and open hearts. They welcomed daughter Kimberley in 1966, daughter Karen in 1968 and son Patrick in 1976. Between chasing Kim down from the roof, finding Karen when she took off on her bike, or keeping Pat from dropping screwdrivers down the drains, raising her children was an exciting and delightful adventure for Gail. In 1986, her role as Grandma Gail began with the birth of their first grandchild. Gail loved being a grandmother and building special bonds with each of her nine grandchildren. Teaching them to play cards, crochet, sew, bake, or just have fun and be silly. As the seasons of life turned, with their children grown and starting families of their own, Terry and Gail started a new chapter of life by moving from Norwalk. California, to Hemet, California, in 1994. Gail always made her family her priority, from helping to organizing the annual Lotspeich reunions with her siblings, playing cards or Wahoo with her nieces and nephews, to enjoying time with her grandchildren, or planning exciting trips with Terry. Every moment with Gail was special, but her greatest joy was found with her sixteen great-grandchildren. She adored playing, loving and giggling with each of the greats. Being Gigi was one of Gail’s most cherished accomplishments. Service Times:  A final farewell to Gail will be held at Riverside National Cemetery on June 24, 2024, at 1:30 p.m., followed by a reception at Seven Hills Golf Club 3050 Jacaranda Way, Hemet CA 92545 immediately after. Surviving Family Members: Her beloved husband Terry Sampson, her children Kimberley (Jeff) Leivo, Karen Sampson, and Patrick (Norma) Sampson; her siblings William (Nancy) Lotspeich, and Sandra (James) Walchel. Her life’s melody resonates through her nine grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren, each a note in her harmonious symphony. She joins in eternal rest her father Herb, her mother Leona, and her sister Audrey (Bob) Wimberly. grace. Or to Team Gleason, who generously gave her the equipment that helped her live with ALS. In lieu of flowers and in the spirit of Gail’s enduring generosity, contributions in her memory may be made to The ALS Association, to assist them in continuing her fight against the ailment that she faced with unwavering courage and grace. Or to Team Gleason, who generously gave her the equipment that helped her live with ALS. ALS Foundation or Team Gleason

May 5, 2024 My pops always lived for the moment, and he loved to dance, and his smile would light up a room. He impacted many families throughout his life and the children were always drawn to his childlike attitude. Pops had a very easy-going personality. Every caregiver that has crossed his path throughout the Alzheimer’s/Dementia in the last 5 years truly enjoyed how he would just joke around and just watch Golden Girls, Bonanza and any other show of his with delight. He loved movies, the beach and just chilling. California was his home and now his new home is with Jesus. We see you dancing in heaven with the Glory of the Lord upon your face. Love you and forever in our hearts. Anyone is welcome to send flowers, however if you would like to donate instead then I know he would have loved to help out St. Jude Hospital. Service Times:  June 14th: 10am – noon at Memorial Funeral Service 1111 South State ST. Hemet CA 92543 Viewing is 5-9pm on June 13th Surviving Family Members: Edith Muniz-Ruiz (daughter) and Oskar Ruiz (son -in-law), Erica Muniz(daughter) and grandson Jonathan Muniz, Sisters: Oliva Lopez, Marcella Rendon, Delfie Salazar, brothers, Pat Muniz, Marty Muniz

June 12, 1948 – February 5, 2024 Richard Lee Griffin, Jr., a native of Los Angeles, was born on June 12, 1948, to Bernice and R. L. Griffin. He graduated from Jordan High School (Los Angeles) and received his associate degree at Los Angeles Southwest College. Richard proudly served his country in the United States Navy receiving an honorable discharge from April 26, 1968 to April 26, 1974. Richard was a good provider for his family. His career led him to serve as a clerk in the federal building until his well-deserved retirement in 2016. Even in retirement, Richard continued his commitment to service being an active and faithful member at The Way, The Church, where he devoted his time to serving the Body of CHRIST. More than 40 years ago, Richard accepted JESUS CHRIST as his LORD and SAVIOR, guided by his sister, Yolanda Hooks. Afterwards, Richard became a member of The Way, The Church, where he served in the Audio Ministry, performed in plays, was a skilled percussionist, sang as a tenor in the Choir and Covenant (men’s group). He also was a faithful member of the Intercessory Prayer Ministry. He loved fishing, bicycling, gardening, and driving his truck. At The Way, The Church, Richard encountered the love of his life, Marydeane Lofton. The couple married on February 15, 2003, blending their families together: Toni Griffin, Joanna Griffin, Jonathan Griffin, Mark Lofton, Matthew Lofton, and Marriam Lofton. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Bernice and R.L. Griffin, grandparents, Pearlie Mae and Curtis Evans, and siblings, Lloyd Griffin, Caroline Griffin, Betty Morris, and Charles Morris. Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 21 years, Marydeane, and their six children, Toni Griffin, Joanna Griffin, Jonathan Griffin, Mark (Nikki) Lofton, Matthew (Theresa) Lofton, and Marriam Lofton; one sister, Yolanda Hooks; four grandchildren, Ishmael Doby, Amora Griffin, Grayson Lofton and Kayden Lofton, along with a host of in-laws, cousins, nephews, nieces, friends, and Church family. Richard Lee Griffin, Jr. will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his love, faith, and enduring impact on those fortunate enough to have known him.

April 9, 1929 – December 1, 2023 Armand Leon Gallien left this world to be with God on December 1, 2023 after a brief illness. Armand was born in Athol Massachusetts.  He was a strong, adventurous, kind and giving gentleman; who was always willing to help his neighbors in Hemet.  In his younger years, Armand took after his father; who was in the logging industry.  He was a Merchant Seaman from 1956-1979 and also in the Navy from 1969-1970. Armand loved football and his sweets, which his nieces Patty, Connie and Doreen sent him often. Armand had pride working on his house and yard and feeding the birds. He was pre-deceased by his parent’s Maxim Gallien and his mother Mary (Hachey) Gallien, whom he lost at a very young age; his brothers John, Francis, Wilfred, Arthur, Edward, and sisters Yvonne Cassin; Bertha Blaser and Ann Wilcox.  He is survived by his brother Emile of Arundel, Maine. Services will be at Riverside National Cemetery February 7th at 2pm with Navy Funeral Honors.

January 22, 1936 – December 28, 2023 In Loving Memory of Rosa Argentina Lopez Rosa Argentina Lopez, beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother and matriarch, passed away on December 28th, 2023, at the age of 87. She was born on January 22, 1936, in Managua, Nicaragua, and her remarkable journey touched the lives of many. Rosa was a woman of strength, resilience, and boundless love to God. In December 1979, Rosa embarked on a new chapter in her life by moving to the United States, seeking a better future for her family.  She faced many challenges with grace and determination, establishing a home filled with warmth, love, and a strong sense of unity. Rosa’s dedication to her family was unwavering, and she became the heart and soul of the household. Rosa had eight children and is survived by six children, each a testament to her enduring legacy: Vladimir, William, Mario, Fabio, Maria, and Blanca. Her nurturing spirit extended to her 29 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and the anticipation of a great-great-grandchild soon to arrive. Rosa’s impact on multiple generations is immeasurable, and her memory will be cherished in the hearts of her extensive family. Beyond her role as a devoted mother, Rosa was known for her incomparable delicious meals she lovingly prepared. Her home was a haven for laughter, shared stories, and the comforting aroma of traditional dishes that will continue to be part of the family tradition for generations to come. Rosa’s life was a beautiful tapestry of experiences, and she leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience and culture. Her memory will be forever etched in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. May she rest in eternal peace, and may her family find solace in the cherished memories they shared with this remarkable woman.  

May 31, 1938 – December 30, 2023 David Grant Baker was born in the State of New York on the 31st of May 1938, and he passed on the 30th of December 2023. He is survived by his wife, Joanne Baker and was predeceased by his parents Chester and Kathleen Bower. David served in the U.S. Army from 1960 to 1964, and he will be laid to rest at the Riverside National Cemetery on the 25th of January 2024. For those wishing to attend, Riverside National Cemetery is located at 22495 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside CA 92518. The service will begin at 1:15 p.m.  

September 21, 1952 – October 8, 2022 Tyrone Cosmos Lawrence Hypolite was born on the 21st of September 1952 and passed unexpectedly on October the 8th, 2023. He was born in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and has lived for many years in the United State. While growing up on St. Vincent he attended St. Mary’s RC School and St. Martin’s Secondary School. Tyrone is survived by his lovely wife, Bernice Browne-Hypolite and children Orande, Duane, Jason, Marsha, and Tyrone Jr (TJ). There are four grandchildren in the family: Osharde, Duanna, Kanye, and Skylar. He was predeceased by his sister, Bernice, and has surviving brothers and sisters Frank, Ian, Alinda, Julian, Bernard, Ronald (Iman-I), Joan, Pat, Garfield and their respective families. Services for Tyrone will be conducted on Wednesday morning beginning at 9:00 a.m. at The Lamb’s Fellowship church located at 21901 Railroad Canyon Road, Lake Elsinore CA 92532. Interment will follow at noon at the Elsinore Valley Cemetery, 18170 Collier Avenue, Lake Elsinore CA 92530. There will be a Repass Gathering at Tyrone and Bernice’s home following services: 24240 Lilac Lane, Lake Elsinore CA 92532.

July 24, 1985 – September 30, 2023 Michael Martinez was born in San Angelo TX on July 24th, 1985, along with his twin brother, Charles. The family moved to Hemet in 1986 and he grew up here among family and friends. A graduate of Hemet High School he started playing the drums in junior high and loved to play them. He enjoyed music and a few years after graduating from school he was blessed with a daughter, Emery.  Emery came into his life in November of 2006 and from that moment on she was the light of his life.  Even though he worked for Stater’s grocery for many years, his real claim to fame was being a “gold digger.” He passed from this life while working in Nevada for a gold mine, KinRoss.  “Michael brought such an amazing aura of infectious energy. The kind of energy that excited people, the kind of energy that people needed when they were down. He was truly someone used by God to bless the lives of others… a goofy laughter, toothy smile, and infectious personality.”   He is survived by his daughter, Emery Martinez and his parents, Rock and Kathy Martinez. He is also survived by brothers Khristopher and wife, Nichole; Charles and wife, Michelle; and his sister, Elizabeth and husband, Willian. He is also survived by five nieces and two nephews.   A Rosary service for Michael will be at the chapel of Memorial Funeral Services on Monday, October 16th at 4:30 p.m. His Funeral Mass will be at Holy Spirit Catholic Church Tuesday, October 17th at 11:00 with interment following at San Jacinto Valley Cemetery. 

February 18, 1935 – October 2, 2023 Delmar Ewing Bittle was born in Wilton, Missouri as the oldest of 8 children. He joined the Marine Corp at the age of 17 and served from 1952-1954. A few years after his service, he married Mary Jane ono the 12 of July 1958 in New Franklin, Missouri. He was certified and worked as a plumber prior to moving to Pomona, CA in 1964. Later, he and Mary Jane moved to Hemet in 1976 where they were blessed with four children.   Ron, Rand and, wife Ema; Rick, and wife, Lisa; Robyn and husband, Kraig provided Delmar and Mary Jane with many grandchildren, great, and great-great grandchildren.    Delmar enjoyed traveling with his family, camping, and most especially the Masonic Lodge, Shriners, and Scottish Rite and Eastern Star. 

August 17, 1946 – September 9, 2023 Margarite (Schmitt) Weaver of Hemet, CA passed away peacefully on September 9, 2023 surrounded by her children and grandchildren after a two year long battle with Cancer.  Margarite was born on August 17, 1946 in Schlachters Bei Lindau, Germany.  She is survived by her children daughter Krista (Weaver) Patke of Hemet, CA and son Thomas and his wife Victoria Weaver of Atlanta, GA.  In addition to quick wit and amazing sense of humor, Margarite was loving and compassionate.  Her heart knew no bounds and she chose to give to others at every opportunity. A light to all who knew her, Margarite leaves behind her daughter & son, and nine beloved grandchildren: Ashley Feemster, Katie Patke, Desiree Fellers, David Patke, Zoey Patke, Sydney Weaver, Gabrielle Weaver, and Jordan Weaver in addition to six great grandchildren.  Her sweet, caring spirit will be greatly missed. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, September 24th from 2pm-4pm at Memorial Funeral Services 1111 South State Street, Hemet, CA 92543.

April 1, 1960 – July 25, 2023 María del Pilar nació el 1 de Abril de 1960 en Tijuana BC., México. Tuvo dos hijas, Aida y Pilar, de las cual crió ella sola con mucho amor. Dedicó su vida entera a sus hijas y nietos hasta el final. Fue una gran mujer, madre, hija, abuela y hermana y mucho más para quienes la quisieron. Fue querida por todos los que la conocieron y llenaba el cuarto en cuanto entraba, por tanta vida y amor que tenia y daba a cualquier persona. Será por siempre recordada y extrañada. VISITACIÓN:  Agosto 8 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. en Memorial Funeral Services, 1111 S State Street, Hemet CA 92543 MISA FUNEBRE: Agosto 9 en 11:00 a.m Iglesia de Dios El Calvario, 210 S. San Jacinto Ave., San Jacinto CA 92583 ENTIERRO: Agosto 9 en 1:30 p.m en San Jacinto Valley Cemetery, 2555 Santa Fe, San Jacinto CA 92583

September 15, 2001 – March 17, 2023 Memorial Service for David Johnson will be from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 30 at the chapel of Memorial Funeral Services, 1111 S State Street, Hemet CA 92543. Flowers may be ordered through Eva’s Floral Gallery by calling 951-791-1848 or on their website, evasfloralgallery.co Interment will be at Olivewood Cemetery, Riverside CA at a later date.  

June 28, 1941 – March 17, 2023 Rosary service will be held on Thursday April 6th from 4:00-8:00 p.m. at the chapel of Memorial Funeral Services, 1111 S State Street, Hemet CA 92543. Funeral service will be held on Friday, April 7th at 12:30 at Memorial Funeral Services chapel. Interment will be at the San Jacinto Cemetery, 2555 S Santa Fe Ave., San Jacinto CA 92583 at 2:00 p.m. on Friday April 7th.

January 13, 1960 – December 4, 2022 Linda Jean Fitts was born January 13,1960 to Lillie B. Clark in St. Louis, Missouri , and she was a member of Bright Star Baptist Church where she received Christ at a young age. Linda lived and grew up in Compton California And attended the Compton Unified School District. Linda had been married once. By the time Linda turned 27 she attended Palos Verde Community College in Blythe Ca where she studied business math. She had a love for music, blues of course, dancing and singing as well. Her passion was laughter and love. Her gifts were cooking, making holiday baskets, sewing, and crocheting. Most of all she loved to be of service wherever she could be. Whether passing out meals to the less fortunate, cooking and opening her doors all the time, she was always available to help out. Linda always had Big Dreams of owning a restaurant and traveling the world. Eventually she did both. She owned a restaurant at Lake Skinner in Temecula California named Lulu’s Lipsmacking Café. Linda also owned two motorhomes which she put to good use and her Dreams in life were well fulfilled. In 2004 she survived a brain aneurysm where she suffered memory lost but recovered beyond all means. She is survived by her Mother, Lillie B Clark, her Sister, Rayjennia Adams, her Brothers Elvin Worthey and Derell Clark. Preceeding Linda in death were: Brother James Worthey and Sister Dorthey Worthey all living in Compton California. She also leaves to cherish her memory daughters Carmen Worthey, Lateasha Boggs, Keely Fitts, and Son, Clarence Bowser. Her grandchildren Ricardo Lee, Raycosha Worthey, Roland (RJ) Gipson, Elijah Fitts, Savannah Barba (Who shares her birthday) Rhkayla Worthey, Leiajah Conkleton Ja’Nyiah Wilder, Evan Fitts and Great grandchildren Michael Lee, Braylon Lee, Daniel Lee, Kayson Lee, Neveah Worthey, Ricardo Lee Jr, Angelo Fitts, Camryn Mcgaughey, Carmen Lee, Damien Lee, Ava Fitts, Montero Worthey, Amari Lee, Elijah Fitts Jr. She certainly had a host of family and good friends. She departed her life December 4, 2022 and her loving memory will always be cherished. We loved her dearly, but God loved her best. In closing all of her good days out weighed her bad days and as a family we won’t complain !!

February 14, 1952 – December 10, 2022 My father was my honorable man, biggest fan and my greatest role model. I could call him at any time, and he always had an answer. Life is different without him, but I am grateful I got to call him my dad. My dad was my hero, my friend and my rock. He was the most courageous and resourceful man a daughter could want to have. I never questioned if he loved me or cared for me because he made it so obvious. I still feel him with me each day and I am living life for the both of us now. He was a very intelligent man who touched many lives. My dad had a humble heart and a pure heart he was goofy, funny with a great sense of humor and a pleasant laugh. He had a great attitude towards life. He worked in El Salvador in the Central Intelligence area for over 25 years. Then he established a security company in El Salvador that is still running to this day. He was the force for our company here as well. He is survived by my mom, three daughters, three grandchildren, a son-in-law, sisters and brothers countless friends whom he was immensely proud of. He will be missed by everyone. I had the privilege to have him walk me down the aisle when we received the sacraments of marriage he asked to do his funeral mass at the same church. He taught Angelo how to play soccer and provided him with advice on how to do it. He was in Angelo’s life since he was born. He was also my mom’s best friend and husband for 48 years. My dad was a unique individual, special man, extraordinary man and he was a stubborn until the day he died. He did not want to say he was hurting because he didn’t want to inconvenience us, he protected us until the day he died. I am happy he is in a better place and wishes him to rest in peace. I wish through Gods grace to help us to provide us the strength to support his absence. I love you Dad to infinity and beyond. May the Virgen Mary and “La Morenita” like you call her help you pass and continue to the light to find our Heavenly Father. Fly our Angel who I know will be watching us now. Mi Papá era mi fanatico mas grande y un modelo de padre ejemplar. Le podia llamar a cualquier hora, siempre tenia una respuesta. La vida es diferente sin el, pero estoy agradecia de haberle podido llamar Papá. Mi Papá era mi heroe, mi amigo y mi roca. El era un hombre con coraje mucha fuerza y un hombre con mucha sabiduria que cualquier hija hubiera querido tener. Nunca me pregunte si me queria porque siempre fue ovio. Todabia lo siento todos los dias y ahora estoy viviendo la vida para los dos. Mi Papá era un hombre inteligente y hombre que tocova muchas vidas. Mi Papá tenia tenia un corazon humilde un corazon puro, divertido, chistoso, gracioso un buen sentido de humor y una sonrisa y risa plasentera. Tenia muy buena actitud hacia la vida. Traba- jo en el centro de de inteligencia por más de 25 años en El Salvador. El fue el fundador de una compañia de seguridad en el Salvador y todavia esta en existencia. El tambien era el fundador de nuestra compañia. Le sobrebivio a mi mamá, tres hijas, tres nietos, un yerno, hermanas, hermanos, muchos amigos que estababa bien orgullosos de ellos. El sera extrañado mucho. Tuve el privilegio de el caminarme hacia el altar y me dijo que el queria su misa de resurrection en la misma iglesia. El le enseño al Angelo como jugar futbol y proverle con sujerencias como hacerlo. El estuvo en la vida del Angelo desde que nacio. El tambien fue el mejor amigo de mi mamá y esposo por 48 años. Mi Papá era un hombre unico un hombre especial, un hombre extraordinario fue necio has- ta el final hasta el dia que se nos fue, el no queria decir que estaba en dolor para no incomodarnos, me protejio como un padre hasta el final. Estoy contenta que esta en un mejor lugar le deseo que descanse en paz y por medio de la gracia de Dios y el que nos de la fuerza para poder soportar su ausencia. Lo amo Padre hasta el infinito y lo mas lejos. Que la Virgen Maria “La Morenita” como el le llamaba le ayude hacia la luz para que continue su camino para nuesto Padre Celestial. Vuela padre nuestro Angel que ahora nos esta cuidando.