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Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel, 679 Ohio Street, Gridley, CA (2026)

03/20/2026

Ricky A. Roberts, 73, of Live Oak, California, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on April 9, 1952, he was the son of the late Marion and Myrtle Morris Roberts. Ricky was married to his devoted wife, Adina Roberts, for 54 years, a testament to their enduring love and partnership.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Steven Roberts, and his sister, Linda Withers.

Ricky is survived by his beloved wife, Adina; his children, Jason (Jess) Roberts, Joseph Roberts, and Elizabeth Roberts; and his cherished grandchildren, Ariel (Adam) Vean, Ethan (Kendra) Roberts, Jolee Roberts, Zyeden Beatty, and Mylia Roberts. He also leaves behind one great-grandchild, Atlas Vean.

He is further survived by his brother, Jon (Vicki) Roberts of Zanesville, Ohio.

Ricky loved his family with all his heart and dedicated his life to providing them with love, stability, and security. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the Roberts family kindly requests donations to assist with final expenses.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel (530-846-2138)

03/03/2026

A funeral service will be held on Monday,
March 9, 2026, at the Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter Day Saints, 400 Spruce St. Gridley, CA for
James (Jim) Tupen, 91, of Gridley. Time of ser-
vice has been set for 11:00 a.m.

Jim passed away due to sudden illness on
Thursday, February 26, 2026, in San Saba
County Texas.
He was born June 18,1934 in Gridley, CA to
James and Reva Tupen.
Jim was a long-time resident of Gridley
and after a 28-year career with the California
Highway Patrol, he retired out of the
Oroville office.
Prior to being in the CHP, Jim served in the
United States Air Force in the 89th Weather
Reconnaissance Squadron as a flight crew member flying B-29’s.

He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed
hunting and fishing from a young age. He was
a member of the Masonic Lodge and a long-time
member of the LDS Church. Jim also served on

the Gridley City Council as Vice Mayor. Jim frequently said he had lived a good life.

Jim was preceded in death by his loving wife,
younger brother and parents.
He is survived by his two sons, Doug (Kristin)
Tupen of Rigby Idaho and JT Tupen of Chico,
one daughter, Wendy Maral of Gridley, and 4
grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

Bishop Dustin Barnette of the Gridley First
Ward of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day
Saints will officiate the service. Interment will be
at the Gridley Biggs Cemetery.
Reception to follow immediately after at the
Justeson Celebration Barn, 1803 Riley Rd.
in Gridley.

Arrangements Entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel 530-846-2138
https://ramseyfuneralhomes.com/tribute/details/5829/James-Tupen-Jr/obituary.html -start

ZOOM link: https://zoom.us/j/96021942965

03/03/2026

Gary Richard Pippitt, 83, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on May 17, 1942, in Gridley, California, to Ross and Marjorie Pippitt. He was the youngest of five children and was raised with the strong values of faith, hard work, and devotion to family that would guide him throughout his life. He attended school in Biggs, California and called Sutter County home for most of his life.

After high school, Gary proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1959 to 1962. After his service, he worked as a truck driver for Delta Lines and Mathews Ready Mix and later as an Operations Manager for Ceco Transport and Avalon Bay Foods.

On March 24, 1962, he married the love of his life, Paula (Gillispie) Pippitt. Together they shared almost 64 years of marriage, building a life centered on faith, love, and family. Gary had a deep appreciation for life’s simple joys. He was an avid fan of Western movies, and nothing brought him more happiness than spending time with his family. He was a fun and devoted grandfather who treasured every moment with his grandchildren. Gary and his family loved to travel together, with cherished trips to Fort Bragg among their favorite memories.

Above all, he was a generous man who freely gave of his time and resources to anyone in need, embodying the servant’s heart that characterized his life. In a calling that would define the next chapter of his life, Gary became a Lutheran pastor, faithfully serving Grace Lutheran Church for over 20 years. His ministry was deeply rooted in his faith, compassion and love for others, and commitment to sharing the message of Jesus Christ.

Gary was a proud and loving father to six children: Gary W. Pippitt, Cindy Reimers, Doreen Creedon, Theresa Jamel, Valerie Boschi (Craig), and Thomas Pippitt. He was also blessed with 18 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, each one a reflection of his love and values.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Leroy Pippitt and Ross Earl Pippitt; his sister, Betty Harris; and his son-in-law, Michael Reimers.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Paula; his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; and his sister, Patricia Potter.

A Celebration of Life will be held Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 150 Ford Avenue, Gridley, CA.

Gary will be remembered for his unwavering faith, strong work ethic, servant’s heart, and deep love for his family. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew and loved him.
https://ramseyfuneralhomes.com/tribute/details/5812/Gary-Pippitt/obituary.html -start

02/27/2026

Helen Louise Ryan, 94, passed peacefully on Feb 20, 2026, surrounded by her family. She
was preceded in death by her husband Elbert John Ryan married 43 years and son Ricky
Blair Ryan.
She is survived by son Kent Ryan (Dru), daughter Candy Hill (Mark), Penny Gardner
(Brad). She had 9 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren, and 10 great great grandchildren.
Helen lived an amazing life. She worked for the Butte County Sheriffs Dept for 27 ½ years.
She rose through the ranks starting as dispatcher/matron to become Jail Commander. She
was the first sworn female deputy. She retired as a Sergeant in charge of the Civil Division
when she retired in 1993. Never one to sit still, she spent many years working at Butte
Auto Parts as Bookkeeper.
After her retirement she enjoyed traveling with family and friends. She especially enjoyed
spending time in Fort Bragg, and country music.
She was a wonderful loving mother, grandmother, and friend. There was nothing she loved
more than spending time with her family.
Services will be held at the Gridley Biggs Cemetery on March 3rd, at 11 am with a
celebration of life to be held afterwards at the Gridley Moose.

02/21/2026

Ramsey Funeral Homes in Oroville and Gridley, California have a Job Opening for Removal Technicians

Overview: The Removal Technician respectfully transport the bodies of the deceased from the place of death to our funeral home facility.

Hours & Classification: 5 PM to 7 AM on –call as scheduled. Available by phone and able to respond to first calls during scheduled times. You will be paid per call/removal.

Requirements: must live within the greater Oroville area, current California state driver’s license – good driving record – pass security clearance- physical ability to safely transfer human remains of at least 150 lbs. – excellent communication skills – compassion and respect for all

*Training period with experienced staff members

Responsibilities to include: safely and respectfully transporting the deceased – accurate recordkeeping – maintaining clean, safe, sanitary vehicles and equipment – maintaining inventory of removal supplies
Job Type: Part-time

Pay Information:

Removal Technicians are not paid hourly, but are paid per removal. Further details regarding compensation will be provided at time of the interview.
Schedule:

Holidays
Night shift
On call
Weekend availability
TO APPLY: Email your resume to: tom@ramseyfuneralhomes.com

02/19/2026

Obituary for Nathan Clay Sharrock
Nathan Clay Sharrock, born March 7, 1991, passed away on August 5, 2025. He was a beloved son, father, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend. Nathan lived life with a free spirit and an adventurous soul, always drawn to movement, nature, and the water.
As he was growing up, animals were always drawn to Nathan. From a young age, he had a calm, caring spirit that made them feel safe around him. That same gentle nature continued throughout his life. He loved fishing, playing darts, skateboarding, and skimboarding, and he felt most at peace near the water. Animals were instinctively comfortable with him, and children always seemed to seek him out. He had a special way about him—patient, gentle, and kind—and he was especially good with kids. People trusted him, and little ones felt safe and at ease in his presence.
Above all else, Nathan was a devoted and loving father to his son, Nova Caelum Sharrock, who was the center of his world and his greatest pride. His love for Nova was deep, unconditional, and everlasting.
Nathan is survived by his loving mother, Lanette Sharrock, and his father, Harjit Janda; his son Nova; his sister, Natalie; uncles Randy Sharrock and Mark Sharrock; aunt Susan Fellows; and many cousins and extended family members who will forever hold him in their hearts.
Though his life was far too short, Nathan touched many lives with his gentle nature and kind heart. We take comfort in our faith, knowing Nathan is now at peace in God’s loving arms.
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” (Matthew 5:4)

A Celebration of Life will be held on March 7, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Lighthouse Tabernacle, 920 Ohio Street, Gridley, CA. Family and friends are invited to gather to honor Nathan’s life, share memories, and celebrate the joy he brought to those who knew him.
Guests are welcome to bring a favorite dish to share if they wish. In lieu of flowers, donations will be accepted by the church.
Nathan will be deeply missed and forever loved.

02/09/2026

Edwin Dale Roach May 16, 1938 - February 2, 2026

Edwin Dale Roach passed away peacefully at the age of 87 in Gridley, California. Ed
was born to parents Oscar and Goldie as their second of five sons. Ed grew up in
Chowchilla, California, and attended Ashview Elementary School. While in high school,
the Roach family moved, but being the committed man he was, Ed chose to work for a
year to pay his grandparents room and board so he could graduate from Chowchilla
High School. By the next Monday, Ed had enrolled in the U.S. Navy, starting his lifetime
of serving others. He was assigned to the U.S.S. Sperry, where he became known as
the softball pitcher no one could hit off of. After four years of dedicated service to the
Navy, Ed was honorably discharged and was quickly appointed as a Los Angeles
County Deputy Sheriff. Working at the then Wayside Honor Minimum Security Ranch,
Ed continued his softball legacy, where they won many championships. At Wayside, Ed
met his lifelong friend and beloved fishing partner, Rob Smyth. Rob and his wife Sharon
also helped Ed meet the loves of his life. Ed frequently recounted how he first fell in love
with Laura and Michael as they ran into the Smyth’s living room. He knew Carol was the
one the second she followed. On their wedding day, July 28, 1963, three year old Laura
said, “Now we are all married.” They joyfully welcomed their third child Thomas in 1966.
In 1967, Ed became a California Highway Patrol officer assigned to Newhall, California.
There, Ed excelled in the California Police Olympics throwing shot put and discus. Ed
went on to get his degree at College of the Canyons in criminal justice, was a confident
track team captain, and threw shot put, discus, javelin, and hammer. After excitingly
welcoming their fourth child Brenda in 1972, the family of six moved to their forever
home in Gridley.
Wanting to continue his love for track and field, Ed asked the head coach at Gridley
High School if he could become a walk-on coach. And with that, Coach Roach was
born. He met Leslie Deniz, an incoming freshman, his first year coaching and they
made a lifelong connection. Ed would go on to see Leslie win silver for the discus at the
1984 Olympics. Coach Roach mentored generations of throwers, including both of his
sons Mike and Tom, and grandson, Ryan. Coach Roach, always looking for ways to
participate in GHS sports, volunteered annually for the GIBT MVP selection commitee.
Outside his love for sports and its community, Ed loved to fish. He fished the Feather
River all year long, took annual trips to Baja with Rob, and took a once in a lifetime
fishing trip to Alaska with his son, Tom, brother, Phil, nephew, David, and grandson,
Steven. Ed was also a kiwi farmer for 32 years, selling locally on Highway 99 to raise
money for his beloved church. As a steadfast member of the Grace Lutheran Church,
he helped build the current site, served as the president of the church council, and
played the guitar for every service he could. Music was a ribbon throughout Ed’s life,

another way for him to express his joy and love. Though Ed has passed, we find
comfort in the words of his beloved John Denver: “Spirit can never be lost. We have and
always will be a part of each other.”
Ed is survived by a large family of love. Foremost, he is survived by his loving wife of 62
years Carol, his four children Laura Rudd (Doug), Michael Engler (Melissa), Thomas
Roach, and Brenda Donnahoe (Joe), and his brother Phil Roach. He also lives on in his
grandchildren Shelley Sakoda (Clayton), Steven Rudd (Kelly), Julie Travioli (Curtis),
Nathan Engler (Lindsay), Taber Engler, Ryan Donnahoe (Slavena) and Ashlyn Gale
(Andrew), as well as his great grandchildren Sophie and Theo Sakoda, Quinn, Myer and
Hank Travioli, and Lina Donnahoe.

His Celebration of Life will begin at 9:00 am, February 21st, at Grace Lutheran Church,
150 Ford Ave, Gridley. A continental breakfast will be followed by a church service at
10:30. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Grace Lutheran Church or
Gridley High School Track and Field.

Arrangements Entrusted to Gridley Block Funeral Chapel 530-846-2138

02/08/2026

Baldemar “Balde” Torres passed away at his home on January 31, 2026. Born
on October 29, 1960, in Edinburg, Texas to Antonio and Justina Torres. They
moved to Southern California for a short time before settling in Gridley, CA.
He met his high school sweetheart Lori Hammons on April 1, 1977, and they
later married on July 20, 1997.
Balde had a knack for working on cars and trucks that led him into the
automotive industry. He spent the next almost 40 years working at Butte Auto
Parts in Gridley.
It was not uncommon to find him sitting at the counter telling stories and solving
the world's problems. In his younger years, he enjoyed rebuilding old cars and
introducing his family to the world of drag racing.
He had an affinity for animals; they always seemed to love him.
He played/managed adult softball teams in the eighties before deciding that he
would rather torment Gridley Little League. His coaching voyage started with
Tee-ball in 1985, and he continued for the next 40 years coaching every division
and multiple generations.
He is survived by his wife, Lori Torres, and their children, Zachary (Toni) Torres,
Augustine (Laura) Torres, Jessica (Michael) Stohlman, Nickolas Torres,
Katherine (Jake) McClure, and Charles (Meg) Phillips. He is also survived by his
mother, Justina Torres; brother, Ben Torres; sisters; Janey Torres, Norma
Torres, Stela Torres and Rosa Hundt; several grandchildren including Tiago and
Zoey Torres, Orion and Barrett McClure, Sophie Phillips and another grandson
on the way as well as his lifelong business partner, Kent Ryan and multiple
nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his father, Antonio Torres and
brothers Valentin and Victor Torres.

A visitation and Rosary will be held for Balde on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 1560 Hazel Street, Gridley. Visitation to begin at 4:30 pm Rosary to begin at 6 pm. Mass will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 11am at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Gridley Biggs Cemetery 2023 Hwy 99, Gridley, CA.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley Block Funeral Chapel. 530-846-2138

01/30/2026

Brian Douglas "Boo" Werner

Brian Douglas "Boo" Werner, 58, passed away on January 20, 2026 in Gridley, California. Born on June 30, 1967 in Oroville, California, Brian lived a life rooted in dedication to his family, his work, and the land that he loved. For Four decades Brian worked with Jones Flying Service, where his commitment and steady presence became a cornerstone of the operation. His long tenure was a testament to his reliability and strong work ethic- qualities that defined much of his life.

Brian was known for his kind heart and humble spirit. He approached everyday with gratitude and joy, never taking life for granted. Whether spending time with loved ones or tending to his passions, he embraced every moment fully.

Among Brian’s greatest joys were hunting and growing giant pumpkins- pursuits that reflected both his love of nature and his deep connection to the community. His pumpkins were not only impressive in size but also symbols of the care and patience he poured into everything he did. He took great pride in sharing this passion with others and found fulfillment in watching something grow under his attentive hand.

Family was at the center of Brian’s world. He is survived by his parents, Jay and Carrie Werner; siblings Johnnie (Margie) Werner, Rachelle (Mark) Diamond and Allyson Peters; daughters Alexis (Luis) Granados and Ashlyn (James) Poteet: grandson Hank and granddaughter Natalie. His love for them was unwavering and evident in every aspect of his life. He was a devoted father and grandfather whose warmth left an indelible mark on those closest to him.

Brian was preceded in death by his grandparents Harlow and Delphy Palmer, as well as Hugo and Christine Werner.

Brian Douglas “Boo” Werner will be remembered for the strength of his character, the generosity of his spirit and the joy he brought to those around him. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley Block Funeral Chapel 530-846-2138

01/10/2026

Sandra A. Waller

Sandra Anne Waller, a life-long Gridley resident, passed away on January 2, 2026.
Sandra was born April 25, 1939 in Scotia, CA, to Max and Eleanor (Soost) Schohr.

Sandra attended Gridley schools, beginning at a one room school located South and East of the Gray Lodge Wildlife Refuge, Notre Dame High School, Gridley High School and Butte College. She was an orchardist with her husband, Bob (and later her grandson Peter) and bookkeeper for the family business.

In the early years the couple had registered hogs they showed at area fairs, State Fair, the Cow Palace and Ark City, Kansas.

Sandra was a member of the Gridley FFA Advisory Committee, Gridley Junior
Women’s Club; President, Shasta District Junior Women’s Club; Manzanita
Elementary School Parent
Teachers Club, as well as a volunteer with various youth organizations. Her personal interests included needlework, art, traveling with
cousins, genealogy, reading and cooking. She was predeceased by her husband Bob, sons Russell
and Rob, her parents, sister Kristine Clavelle (Wallace),
sister-in-law Christine Schohr and brother Paul Schohr.
Survivors include son Erich Waller, grandchildren Chase Waller, Peter and Jenelle Waller and MacKenzie (Josh) Parreira. Favorite great-grand-
children Austyn Deal, Ben and Cash Waller and Cal
Parreira. Nieces Martha, Tina,
and Dawn (Wes) Harriger,
Nephews Max Schohr
(Celeste), Sean, Lawrence and
Wallace Clavelle. And, many
Soost and Schohr cousins.

At her request, no services will be held. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to the Gridley FFA Barn Project c/o Gridley Education Foundation, 429 Magnolia St.,
Gridley, CA 95948. Manzanita4-H Club, Gridley Friends of the Library or St. Judes

12/30/2025

Ralph R. Cassady
Ralph was born May 13, 1955, in Gridley, California, the eldest of three sons to Ralph
R. “Dick” Cassady and Jerry Ruth Hale Cassady. Starting at age 8 Ralph followed in
his father’s footsteps becoming a 5 th generation farmer. He actively helped on the farm
by driving equipment and tending to livestock. He was active in both 4-H and FFA and
raised swine that he exhibited at fairs. He graduated from Gridley High School in 1973.
He attended Butte College and graduated from California State University Chico in
1978. Upon graduation from college, Ralph spent six years in the Willows area working
for Lewis International, selling farm equipment and pickups. As well as his sales job, he
enjoyed judging swine shows in the North State and serving as Livestock
Superintendent at Yuba-Sutter Fair. In 1984, he returned to Gridley and lived in his
grandparents’ home. 1984-2021, he was a partner in the “Feather Butte Farms” rice
farming operation. Ralph was an avid golfer at Peach Tree Golf; Country Club and
Table Mountain Golf Course. He enjoyed going on golf vacations to Mexico and Hawaii.
His favorite time of year was elk, deer and fowl hunting trips with his friends. The story
telling and laughter when he was with his hunting and golf buddies was never ending.
Ralph met the love of his life, Laurie Rist, in 1982. They married in Willows, California
on December 7, 1985, and have spent last 40 years in Gridley. Together they
diversified their farming operation by establishing a walnut orchard.
Ralph served as Director on California Rice Commission 1988-2006; Butte County Farm
Bureau Member, Director and President 2000-2001; Chair of Rice Advisory Committee.
Vice Chair of Water Committee; and Director, Red Top Rice Growers. He was a
member of various fraternal organizations – Gridley Moose Lodge No. 1594, Willows
Elks Lodge No. 1786, Ben Ali Shriners, North Butte Masonic Lodge No. 230; Chico
Chapter No. 42-Royal Arch Masons, Butte Commandery No. 5-Knights Templar, Knights
Templar Eye Foundation, and Butte Council No. 50-Cryptic Masons. He was also
member of Gridley Monday Night Football Club, Butte County Historical Society, Gridley
Museum, and Butte County Fair Sponsor.

Ralph passed away peacefully December 3, 2025, after a long illness at home, under
care of his loving wife.

Laid to rest on December 29, 2025, at Gridley-Biggs Cemetery.
Celebration of Life will be 1:00pm on February 27, 2026, at Gridley Moose Lodge.
He is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife Laurie and Sage.
brothers Dr. Joseph Cassady (Debora), Michael Cassady; many nephews, nieces; Aunt,
RuthAnn Cassady King; and cousins. His quick wit and smile will be missed by his
unnumberable family and friends.

Many thanks to all, for the invaluable care he received from Butte Home Health &;
Hospice nurses, Ginnie, Jerry-Faye & Lou-Anne Cassady, Shellie Evenson, and Susan
Jarratt. Thank you to Matt and staff at Gridley Block Funeral Chapel and Angie at
Gridley-Biggs Cemetery.

Celebration of Life will be 1:00pm on February 27, 2026, at Gridley Moose Lodge. In lieu of flowers, Ralph requested donations be made to his favorite “Fair Time is Fun
Time” place to be, at the Butte County Fair, 199 E. Hazel Street, Gridley CA 95948.

12/11/2025

Roger F. Van De Hey
Funeral services will be held 2 p.m., Friday, December 12,
2025 at Biggs- Gridley Cemetery for Roger Frank Van De
Hey, 78 of Gridley. Roger passed away December 1, 2025 in
Oroville, CA.
Roger was born to Wilbert & Bernice Van De Hey of
Manitowoc, Wisc., December 10, 1946. He graduated from
Lincoln High School in 1965 enjoying his time on the
wrestling team and spending time with friends.
Roger enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1966. He
was stationed at Travis Air Base, CA before being deployed
to Vietnam in 1968. Roger returned to his hometown to
work for the City of Manitowoc as a lineman.
After a few years climbing power poles in the winter storms
with loads of snow, Roger thought about the warm weather
of California and followed his brother Wayne there.
In 1980 Roger received an AA at Yuba College in art.
Roger worked for the City of Gridley as a lineman before
taking a job at Beale Air Force Base and working there as a
civilian in charge of the runway lighting for 24 years retiring
in 2000.
Roger and Lisa met on July 25, 1985 and married two years
later to the day. They enjoyed collecting classic cars,
attending car shows and Green Bay Packer games.
Roger is survived by his loving wife Lisa of 38 years;
grandson Blaine Van De Hey of Illinois, granddaughter
Monica Joab both of Illinois; brother Wayne (Cindy) Van
De Hey; sister Susan Klenke both of Wisc.; Aunt Shirley
Larson of Wisc.; numerous nieces, nephews and many
cherished friends.

Roger was pre-deceased by his parents; his son Eric and
sister Bonnie Peters.
Roger was known for his love of classic cars, Harley
Davidson motorcycles but most of all his beloved Green Bay
Packers. An 8x10 picture of Roger with his Green Bay Santa
carving hung in the Green Bay Packer Hall of Fame at
Lambeau Field for many years.

Contributions may be made to Gridley Animal Shelter, in
care of the City of Gridley, 685 Kentucky Street, Gridley CA
95948 or to an animal shelter of your choice in honor of
Roger's love for dogs.
https://ramseyfuneralhomes.com/tribute/details/5673/Roger-Van-DeHey/obituary.html -start

Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel

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