Daryl Geweke

DARYL WILLIAM GEWEKE
REMEMBRANCE
JANUARY 31, 1925 - DECEMBER 8, 2023

Snow, pigs, cattle, cars, surf and church. How in the world do these relate? Simple answer; Daryl William Geweke.

It was January 31, 1925 on a cold snowy night that Daryl William Geweke was born in a small farmhouse in Pawnee City, Nebraska, southeast of Lincoln, Nebraska. The family raised pigs and cattle living the classic rural lifestyle; up at first light, tending the farm then into the small town a few days a week to sell eggs, cream and livestock. By five years old, Daryl would make regular trips to town and while his parents tended to business, he would sneak over to the Ford dealership and learn every detail about the latest car. He often recalled how the “smell of a new car” was something you don’t forget. Those visits would prove to be one of the main determinants of his future life. He knew cars would be in his future. During the Great Depression of the 1930s when labor costs were 50 cents a day for farm workers, Daryl learned, by necessity, that you must work to survive and work he did. He would do his early morning chores, ride his favorite horse, Black Beauty, over three miles to a parochial school, then return home and work. Farm work made him strong and agile, which he used effectively in high school playing basketball and football. After graduation in 1943 he joined the Merchant Marines to support our WWII effort. At only 17-years old, he shipped out on Christmas day, and his family recalled that it was a tearful departure into the new world off the farm. After a 3-day train ride from Kansas City, Daryl crossed the Tehachapi Mountains Mountains and saw a farm worker in the field wearing only a short sleeve shirt. He knew he was in a new world. He reported to Catalina Island for training and saw the Pacific Ocean for the first time. Feeling the warmth of California in December, he said, “There is a paradise on Earth”. After securing ports and shipping routes, and surviving the constant threat of torpedoes, he went to the Philippines to serve under General Douglas MacArthur. But even after the treaty was signed with Japan and surviving five typhoons, life was still dangerous on board with mines everywhere. On the return trip home along the Aleutian Islands, Daryl was on bow-watch for mines, when one suddenly appeared, and by God’s grace, the bow wave of the ship washed it aside. Completing 3.5-years of sea service, he would return to Nebraska and through hard work and natural organization skills, he managed to double the size of the family farm.

For recreation he would often visit a friend, Loren Rathe, in Omaha where he would attend services at First Lutheran Church. Daryl was baptized on February 8, 1925 and confirmed in Christian faith on May 28, 1939. Despite his deep faith, there was another reason to attend church and that was a beautiful young woman named Opal Demmel. They enjoyed dancing and double dating with friends, but in 1949 Daryl tired of the Nebraska winters and moved to Stockton, California where cousin, Claire Buethe, lived. During that summer, Opal came west to visit and never returned to Nebraska. Late that summer Daryl and Opal were married at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Stockton, California. They immediately started a family in a short 3-years three children arrived; Jane, Larry and Debbie. Five years later Mark was born. That family has grown to include 12 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren. This storybook marriage lasted 68 years until Opal’s passing.

After a brief attempt at selling insurance, Daryl began to follow his childhood dream and started a used car sales company. As the market rapidly changed Daryl realized that new cars were more stable, and he took a position with Eagal Ford. John Eagal took Daryl under his wing and taught him the automobile dealership business for the next 12 years. Daryl was a quick study and very talented, having learned from livestock sales at an early age. He soon began to sell 44-cars a month making him top salesman for 10 years.

In 1965, a Ford franchise became available in Lodi and his vision of being a new car dealer was about to be realized. In 1973 he built a new Ford store in Lodi, then began opening other marques like Dodge, Jeep, Kia and Toyota. He added the Geweke Paint, Body & Tow and Geweke Ford RV (one of the largest in the Valley) to the portfolio. From his success, Daryl started to branch out into real estate ventures and quickly amassed a collection of apartments and retail properties. In 1989 he jumped into the hospitality business and built the Holiday Inn Express on Cherokee Lane and ultimately eight other hotels in the Northern Central Valley.

All of this success never affected his deep sense of faith and family. He was known for treating his employees like family, and many worked for him for decades because of that kindness. He loved to help others grow and was always willing to take the time to share his knowledge. Daryl was a very generous man. He gave regularly to fund community needs, grow churches and support those in need; the list of which is way too long to state here. He grew up knowing it takes time and hard work to succeed and he was famous for saying, “I only work half a day; 6AM to 6PM”. Even until the end, Daryl would rise early, have his devotional time, then head to the office and make sure everything was ready for his staff to deal with issues of the day. Of course, most of us would wonder how he could do this for so long? His answer was simple, exercise each day, pray often and remain excited about your life. Daryl spent much of his life in a gym or pool and he not only lived longer, but much happier, as he often noted. He had a great sense of humor; quoting silly sayings that made us laugh and sometimes colorful humor that surprised us, but always lifted our day. He loved to sing old hymns or quote scripture. Those were the roots of his blessed and colorful life which he would share freely.

How many of you have been greeted with the Geweke handshake? You never shook Daryl’s hand without an adjustment to interlock you little fingers and then you never forgot…only Daryl. Well today we remember not only that special handshake, but a very special man that has truly given more than he received. Being a life-long Ford man, Daryl asked that the family be escorted to the cemetery and reception in Model A and Model T Fords. I can hear him say “Gentleman start your engines”. We are blessed for having known Daryl William Geweke, and we know he is now in the best hotel, driving the latest car on golden streets with God as his copilot. Thank you, Daryl, for all you did during your earthly tour. Until we meet again.

SERVICE:
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church 2400 Oxford Way, Lodi, CA 95242. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Peter’s Lutheran School Lodi or Lodi Memorial Hospital Foundation.

Please sign the guest book at www.lodinews.com/ guestbook.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home is honored to serve the Geweke family.

David Gutierrez

August 10, 1938 - December 31, 2023

David Lopez Gutierrez age 85 from Lodi California passed away peacefully on Sunday December 31, 2023 in Stockton California surrounded by family.

David was born in Pasadena California on August 10, 1938 to his parents the late Arcadia and Jenny Gutierrez. He was a loving kind and generous man, who was adored by everyone who knew him.

A graduate from Galt high school then served in the army for four years, following his military He started working at the Lodi foundry for 10 years with his father. Then he retired from General Mills after 21 years.

David is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 61 years Yolanda Gutierrez, his sons, Roland Gutierrez, and John Gutierrez, his grandchildren, Amanda Gutierrez, Jonathan Gutierrez, Justin Gutierrez, Hunter Gutierrez, Kayla Miller and Nicole Gray. Along with five great grand boys and one great granddaughter on the way. David is survived by his sister Dorthy Perez and his brother Felix Gutierrez. He is presided in death by his sister Delores Teel.

In his free time David enjoyed fishing, working on his yard and taking his dogs, Katie and Ley for walks.

David will be missed by his family friends and all those whose lives he touched his memory will forever be cherished.

SERVICE
A memorial service will be held at 10:00am on Friday, January 19th, 2024 at the Evergreen Chapel  at Cherokee Memorial Park, located off of Highway 99 at Harney Lane, Lodi CA.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Gutierrez family.

Kathleen Engstrom

September 10, 1961 - December 30, 2023

Kathleen Ann Engstrom, also known as Kathy, passed away on December 30, 2023, in Stockton, California, at the age of 61. She was born on September 10, 1961, in Stockton, California, to her late parents John and Volia McKeever. Kathleen was a loving and creative individual who had a passion for traveling and adored her cats. She always had a warm smile and a comforting hug for those around her.

In her career, Kathleen worked as a Medical Records Secretary at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Stockton for 14 years. She was dedicated to her work and made a positive impact on those she interacted with.

Kathleen pursued higher education at Delta College and graduated with a degree in Business.

Outside of work, Kathleen had a variety of hobbies that brought her joy. She loved cats and enjoyed their company. Traveling and cruising allowed her to explore new places and create lasting memories. She also had a talent for ceramics and decorating. Above all, Kathleen treasured spending time with her family, creating meaningful moments together.

Kathleen met her loving and devoted husband Garrett L. Engstrom while in elementary school and were married for 39 years.

In memory of Kathleen Ann Engstrom, contributions can be made to the Delta Humane Society Stockton, a no-kill shelter.

Kathleen is survived by her loving husband Garrett; brothers Dan, Jimmy, Curtis and sister Lynn. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends and all those whose lives she touched.

Funeral arrangements for Kathleen are being handled by Cherokee Memorial Park and Funeral Home, located in Lodi, California. Service will be held on Thursday, January 18, 2024 at 1:00pm in the Evergreen Chapel.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Engstrom family.

Ilong Tebei

September 9, 1937 - December 30, 2023

VISITATION
A visitation will be held from 12:00pm - 1:00pm on Wednesday, January 17th, 2024 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

SERVICE
A service will be held at 1:00pm on Wednesday, January 17th, 2024 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Tebei family.

Daniel Quilantang

December 4, 1962 - December 30, 2023

VISITATION
A visitation will be held from 4:00pm - 8:00pm on Monday, January 15th, 2024 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

SERVICE
A service will be held at 1:00pm on Tuesday, January 16th, 2024 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Quilantang family.

Marcelo Cabrera

October 29, 1932 - December 30, 2023

VISITATION
A visitation will be held from 1:00pm - 7:00pm on Friday, February 2nd, 2024 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

SERVICE
A service will be held at 10:00am on Saturday, February 3rd, 2024 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Cabrera family.

Michael Cooper

October 1, 1959 - December 27, 2023

Michael Brian Cooper went home to the Lord December 27, after a lengthy battle with cancer. Born the first of 2 sons in Council Bluffs, Iowa , Mike grew up mostly in Stockton, CA, where as a boy and young man, he excelled in baseball. 

A graduate of Lincoln High School, Mike went to work early in the area of electronics and eventually became a Mechanical systems integrator and engineer for well-known Greif Industrial Packaging and ultimately back to where he started at Carando Technologies, Inc., where he was considered tops in his field. There were not many countries that Michael didn’t travel to to fix some ailing factory assembly line.

Mike’s greatest achievement, though, was the 38 years of continuous sobriety he maintained though his involvement in Alcoholics Anonymous, a feat he did not take credit for, but nonetheless allowed him to be the man he became.  He was a loving son, husband, father, brother, uncle and special friend to so many from so many walks of life.  He had a zest for living that overcame all obstacles, and was truly selfless when it came to others. Mike loved the outdoors, BBQs and especially fishing with friends.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Fang, his son, Zachary and step son, Xinbo, his parents, Keith and Donna Cooper, brother Terry, and numerous nieces and nephews.  At Mike’s request, no services will be held in his memory.  Anyone wishing to make a donation in his name can do so to Stanford Medical Center.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Cooper family.

Kristen Lobb

September 24, 1960 - December 26, 2023

In the early morning hours on December 26th, 2023 the angels came and lifted our beautiful Kristi to her heavenly home to be with her beloved God and all her loved ones who have gone before her.

Kristen (Kristi) Alicia Lobb was born in Sacramento in 1960 and moved to Lodi with her family that same year. In 1966, Joe Lobb, Jr. married her mother, Ida Mae, and he became her Dad, and to honor him, she subsequently changed her last name to his.

After graduating from Lodi High School, Kristi graduated from the Delta College Nursing Program with an AA Degree and as a registered nurse, she worked as a case manager for Hospice of San Joaquin for 25 years where her care, love and compassion for her patients is legendary. Kristi's adventurous spirit led her to become an outstanding horsewomen while belonging to the Clements Buckaroos as well as swimming with the dolphins in Mexico and running a 5k race. Her greatest joy came in 1983 when she gave birth to her only child, Estaban (Stevie) Ignacio Aguilar, Jr. 

Kristi's passions were her love of God and family and all animals of which she rescued many. She was an avid gardener who loved the color lavender. Kristi is survived in sadness by her son, Estaban (Stevie) Aguilar Jr.; mother, Ida Mae Lobb - see you in paradise my darling girl (Mumza); sister, Kathleen (Tim) Clark; brothers, Tim (Sue) Lobb, Jeff Lobb and Michael (Kathy) Lobb; nieces and nephews, Robert (Bree) Clark and their son Holden, Jessika Lobb, Nadya Clark, Joe Lobb III, Sydney Lobb and Joseph Patrick Lobb; cousins, Dana (John) Munoz, Lisa Thomas, Michelle (Mark) Nelson, Grant Thomas, Jack Thomas, Erik Beer (Darlene) and Alex (Caroline) Beer; Steven Peterson (Kelly) lifelong friend, Tammy (Gene) Rose; special friend Kim (Tim) Martinsdias and her Polydactyl cats, Hemingway, Peanut, Sophie, and Pepe.

Awaiting her in heaven is her Dad, Joe Lobb, Jr., maternal grandmother Mary Thomas; paternal grandmother, Frances Stull; nephew Nick Lobb and her dog, Mr. Pickles.

With their whole hearts, the family wishes to thank the caring staff at Hospice House for the loving care provided to Kristi in her last days, truly angels on earth.

She was a member of The Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist of Lodi and Lifesong Church of Stockton.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

Remembrances may be made to Hospice of San Joaquin, 3888 Pacific Ave, Stockton, CA 95205; The Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist, 1055 S. Lower Sacramento Rd, Lodi, CA 95242 or Animal Friends Connection Humane Society, 9333 S. Cherokee Lane, Lodi, CA 95240.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Lobb family.

Raul Rojas Casillas Jr

July 17, 2002 - December 25, 2023

VISITATION
A visitation will be held from 4:00pm - 8:00pm with a rosary staring at 6:00pm on Monday, January 8th, 2024 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

SERVICE
A service will be held at 10:00am on Tuesday, January 9th, 2024 at the Church of Mater Ecclesiae, located at 26500 N Sacramento Blvd, Thornton, CA 95686.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Rojas Casillas family.

Cherokee Memorial Park is a 501(c)13 non-profit company, owned and operated exclusively for the benefit of the community, serving Lodi, Stockton, Galt, Manteca and the San Joaquin Valley since 1940.

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