Peers-Lorentzen

Dolores Marlene (Costa) Menezes August 6, 1934 – March 7, 2026 

Our loving mother, Dolores Menezes, peacefully left this world on March 7, 2026, surrounded by family, to join our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. A long-time resident of Tulare, she lived a full and vibrant life until her passing at the age of 91. 

Dolores, the oldest of three children, was born to Manuel Costa and Maria (White) Costa on August 6, 1934, in Visalia, California. She and her twin brothers, John and Manuel, were raised on the family dairy in Visalia. She attended George McCann School and Redwood High School in Visalia, and Immaculate Heart High School in Los Angeles. After the passing of her mother, Dolores gained seven additional siblings when her father remarried: Erma Jean, Mary Ann, Fred Jr., Alan, Robert, Annette, and Renee. 

In 1955, Dolores married the love of her life, Joe Menezes, and they settled on his family farm in Tulare, California, where they welcomed six children. They shared 52 wonderful years together before Joe’s passing. Dolores cherished traveling with Joe—whether visiting family or enjoying time with friends in places like Las Vegas, Hawaii, Alaskan cruise, South Dakota, and Florida. Most memorable were the countless joyful family vacations at Pismo Beach and Avila Beach.  

Faith and family were woven throughout Dolores’ life in the way she lived day to day. A devout Catholic, she was deeply involved at St. Aloysius and St. Rita’s Churches, participating in the Altar Society, Catholic Daughters, fundraising events, and the choir. She also attended Portuguese festa activities rooted in Catholic faith and tradition. 

Dolores was a beloved bus driver for over 30 years, first at St. Aloysius School and later at Palo Verde, and found great fulfillment in her leadership with the Palo Verde 4-H Club. She cherished every opportunity to make a difference in a child’s life and was often greeted around town by one of “her kids” from the bus. Her competitive and creative spirit shone at the Tulare County Fair, where she earned blue ribbons for her lemon meringue pies and various plants. Her rice pudding was a favorite among family and friends. Gardening was more than a hobby—it reflected her creativity and love of life. Her passions for gardening, baking, and caring for animals live on as a lasting legacy within her family. 

Known for her exuberant laugh, Dolores delighted in anything that tickled her, often laughing so hard she was brought to tears. She was always a good sport when it came to the many jokes and pranks orchestrated by her children and grandchildren—often with Joe leading the antics. She rarely missed an event for her children or grandchildren and never missed a birthday, faithfully calling to sing to her loved ones. Regardless of what Dolores was doing or whom she was doing it with, kindness, love, and beauty were always involved. No doubt she left seeds of these virtues behind to continue growing.  

She was a woman of strong character—tenacious in her convictions yet possessing the rare grace to deliver the “sweetest no” one could hear. Dolores maintained an open-door home, welcoming friends, neighbors, and anyone in need of a listening ear and a hot cup of coffee, especially during the holidays. She never missed a chance to visit with her sisters-in-law, hair salon confidants, or other dear friends. Even in her golden years, she remained vibrant and curious, taking college and workout classes and making new friends along the way. 

Dolores is survived by her children: Dan Costa; Joe (Teresa) Menezes Jr.; Darlene (Rick) Winfree; Sandra Ormonde; Tanya Menezes; and daughter-in-law Judi (Jack) Loper. Her son Eddie Menezes passed unexpectedly at a young age but had blessed her with her first grandchild. She is survived by her sixteen grandchildren, who lovingly called her “Vava”: Eddie (Stephanie) Menezes Jr.; Michaelene (George) De Boer; Brandon (Shannon) Ormonde; Stacia Enos Bettencourt; John (Erika) Menezes; Tyler Loper; Jessica (Jared Scharfetter) Winfree; Jeffrey Menezes; Daniel (Desiree) Costa; Shannon Costa; Maeve Enos; Jaclyn (Brennan) Hogan; Kirsten Menezes; Spencer (Ashley) Enos; Jennifer (Matt) Le Page; and Miya Menezes Cooper; as well as 22 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and godchildren.  

The family is grateful for the compassionate care, comfort, and dignity provided by Armida, Anna, Monique, Glory Days Assisted Living, and American Quality Hospice during her time of need. 

Visitation will be held at Peers-Lorentzen Funeral Chapel in Tulare on Thursday, April 9, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with the Recitation of the Rosary at 6:00 p.m. 

A Mass of Resurrection will be held at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Tulare on Friday, April 10, at 10:30 a.m., followed by burial at Tulare District Cemetery. 

Evelyn Louise (McCallister) Benson was born on October 16, 1942, and passed away on March 18, 2026. Born in Arthur, Illinois, she moved to Tulare with her parents, George and Gladys McCallister when she was seven years old. She was educated in Tulare and attended California State University at Chico. She returned to Tulare after marrying Reynold “Buzz” Benson, in 1961. Growing up, Evelyn enjoyed horseback riding, swimming and playing tennis, as well as family trips across the country. She had friendships that lasted from grade school, high school and beyond. She enjoyed travelling, reading and politics. She believed in standing up for her convictions, helping others to do the same, and she had a strong sense of civic responsibility. She was fiercely independent. 

She and Buzz would go on to establish Benco Farms in Tulare. She served on the Tulare County Grand Jury and worked for the United States Census Bureau in the 1970s. At one point, she had a local radio show and then a television program to promote local politics and news. She was active in volunteer work in the community and at the Tulare Methodist Church. She was also active in local civic organizations. Evelyn opened and operated an employment agency for a number of years. She also worked for Proteus, a local hospice, the Tulare District Hospital, and the Tulare Rural Health Clinic before retiring. 

She is preceded in death by her twin brother, who was stillborn, her parents, George and Gladys McCallister, and her husband, Reynold “Buzz” Benson.

She is survived by her children, Michael (Cheryl) Benson and Sally Ann (Paul) Carreiro, her grandchildren Nicholas Benson, Johnathon (Morgan) Benson, Jocelyn Benson, David (Lori) Carreiro, Elizabeth Carreiro, great-grandchildren Aria Benson and Ezra Benson, Charlotte Wilbanks and Casey Wilbanks, her sister Sally (Bill) Phelps, and many nieces and nephews, great nieces and great nephews. 

Services will be held at the Tulare Methodist Church on Monday, March 30, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., with graveside services to follow. Evelyn loved her family, her church and the community of Tulare. She will be greatly missed. 

Sandra Outhasin, age 48, of Visalia, California, passed away on March 4, 2026. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and a bright light in the lives of everyone who knew her. 

Sandra was known for her playful spirit and her ability to bring laughter wherever she went. She was always making jokes, being silly, and finding ways to make others smile. Her personality was full of life. She loved to laugh, joke around, and do random, fun things that made everyday moments feel special. 

She had a creative heart and enjoyed making small DIY projects, always finding joy in creating something with her hands. Whether she was working on a project or simply spending time with her family. Sandra made every moment meaningful. 

Sandra is lovingly survived by her five children: Sandriana, Vanessa, Teung, Vanity and Jasime, as well as her nine cherished grandchildren, who were the pride and joy of her life.

One of the many memories her family will forever hold close is of Sandra driving around with her sunglasses on, her hair in a ponytail, listening to music, singing at the top of her lungs, and laughing freely. Those moments perfectly captured her spirit, carefree, joyful, and full of love.

Sandra’s presence brought warmth, laughter, and comfort to her family and friends. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her humor, her love, and the happiness she shared so freely with others. 

Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Tulare – Martin A. Herrera, 74, was born to Idelfonso Herrera & Maria Teresa Arroyo on August 7, 1951 in Mexico City, Mexico. He ascended to eternal rest on March 18, 2026 in Tulare, CA. Martin married Lucy
Guerrero in July 1970 in San Jose, CA.. He relocated to Tulare, CA in 1985 and also resided in Patterson, CA between 1989 and 1993 and has been in Tulare since. Martin loved his family, attending and volunteering for school events, including TW Band Boosters which he loved to cook for the Tulare Ag Show, he loved his animals, especially his horses, which he trained them for Caballos Bailadores/Charria and won many awards/trophies from performances and parades. He also liked to watch YouTube and play games on his phone. He was a construction pipe layer until a work injury in 1993.

Martin was preceded in death by his parents Idelfonso & Teresa Herrera, siblings: Adela Blanco, Carlos Herrera (Elvira), son Martin Herrera Jr and his grandson, Donovan H. Gomes. He is survived by his wife Lucy Herrera, daughter Corina Gomes (Ed Gomes), son Tizoc Herrera, daughter Yesenia Herrera (Tim Krenzer) grandsons: EJ Gomes (Amy), Anthony Gomes (Mayra), Malakai Herrera, Dehven Gomes, Jaiden Krenzer, Jaxen Krenzer, granddaughters: Scarlett Herrera, Ryelen Krenzer, Kaylen Krenzer, great grandson Donovan L. Gomes, great granddaughters: Aurora (Rory) Gomes, Galilea (Gali) Gomes, Zara Gomes siblings: sisters: Emilia Herrera, Teresa Muniz (Ruben), brothers: Idelfonso Herrera (Panta), Raul Herrera (Cristina), and Rafael Herrera (Margarita)

Viewing will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 9am – 11am and Rosary immediately following at 11am. Arrangements are entrusted to Peers Lorentzen Funeral Home Services. Flowers can be sent to Peers Lorentzen in care of Martin Herrera or family welcomes donations to Venmo @allsmylz or Zelle @5598275321.

Tommy was born September 2, 1942 in Little Rock Arkansas. Tommy is preceded in death by his beautiful wife Brenda Golden Rosa, his father Joseph T. Rosa, mother Myrtle I. Rosa. His sisters Wanda Surrat, Patsy D. Byrd, Rachel Burns and his brothers Wayne Rosa, (Joseph) Tony Rosa and Gary Rosa. Nieces Billie Gayle Byrd, Lana Birch and nephews Peter Surrat, Jamie Surrat, Carl Lily, Robert Burns and Dominic Rosa. Survived by his nieces Lisa Benson, Angie Sentell, Melanie Rosa, nephew Richard Rosa and many great nieces and nephews. 

Tommy joined the Navy in 1960 and upon discharge in1963 moved to Visalia California to be close to family. He worked as a bartender at Wunder Stagg and Ralph’s. Then he moved to Modesto Ca where he worked for Norris Industries. Tommy then moved to Placerville for a short time and then back to Visalia where he started working at Tagus Ranch. Tagus Ranch is where he met Brenda.  He became a bar manager at El Dorado while always dreaming of having his own bar. Tommy’s dream finally came through, and Tommy and Brenda became the owners of Tommy’s Lounge in 1980. Tommy and Brenda owned the business for 32 years. Tommy sold his business in January 2012. Many lifelong friends and great memories were made in those 32 years. Tommy was well respected as a person and as a business owner. He was a quiet man and teased that he never smiled, but when he spoke everyone listened. You didn’t get away with much when Tommy was behind the bar. When Tommy laughed you wanted to laugh with him. After retiring in 2012 he and Brenda enjoyed traveling and decided to become active members at the Tulare Elks Lodge. Guess who was the bartender? Tommy! 

Tommy will be remembered on April 8^th, 2026, at 10am at Peers-Lorentzen Funeral Home

132 West Kern Ave Tulare with a celebration of life to follow at 12pm at Tulare Elks Lodge 

1535 E Bardsley Ave Tulare, Ca. An Elks memorial service will be performed.  Flowers can be sent to Peers-Lorentzen in care of Tommy Rosa.

“Fly High on the mountain Tommy” you will never be forgotten!

Dennis Dean Stiffler passed away on March 9 and is now at peace in Heaven with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Dennis was born on February 18, 1950, in Tulare, California, to his parents, Lucy Edna Stiffler and Chester Lee Stiffler. He grew up in Tulare with his two brothers and attended Tulare city Schools. Dennis graduated from Tulare Western High School in 1968 and continued his education at College of the Sequoias, graduating in 1970. During his high school and college years, he worked at Palace Market, where he developed the strong work ethic and friendly spirit that would define his life.

In 1973, Dennis married the love of his life, Sharron, whom he met at church. Dennis began working for the Internal Revenue Service in 1971 and faithfully served 45 years until his retirement in 2016. He genuinely enjoyed helping people and took pride in assisting other with their problems.

Faith was central to Dennis’s life. Over the years he attended The First Church of God in Tulare, Fresno, and the Washington, D.C. area. Later he attended Faith Baptist Church and The Nazarene Church in Visalia, and most recently Valley Baptist Church in Bakersfield. Dennis loved serving the Lord and was actively involved in ministries including the children’s bus ministry, Evangelism Explosion, working in the Prayer Garden, and helping with Easter and Christmas productions.

Dennis was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He and Sharron were blessed with one daughter Ashley. He especially loved spending time with his grandsons, Rowen and Kade, who brought him great joy.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Sharron; daughter Ashley; Rowen and Kade; brother, Ron; and numerous nieces and nephews. The family would also like to thank the staff at Hoffman House for their gentle and compassionate care during Dennis’s final days in what the family lovingly called God’s waiting room.

Graveside service will be held at Tulare District Cemetery on Thursday, March 19^th at 11:00 a.m. Dennis will be remembered for his unwavering faith, servant’s heart, and deep love for his family. Though he will be greatly missed, his loved ones find comfort knowing he is rejoicing in Heaven.

Alma H. Vasquez, 91, passed away at home on March 8th, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. Born on January 30, 1935, in Los Angeles, CA.  Alma lived a life filled with kindness, laughter, and love of family. She was the second youngest of ten children born to Luz and Maria Hernandez. Alma spent her childhood in LA and graduated from Garfield High School in 1954. She met her husband, Carlos, at an Elks Lodge dance in Tulare, which “crazy Aunt Gloria” convinced her to attend. They were married for 62 years before Charlie’s passing in 2024. 

Alma had a quiet way of commanding the room with her truly selfless heart, her soft smile and ability to passionately retell stories of her childhood that would draw all near. She loved to throw parties and was happiest when her home was filled with laughter and the chatter of family and friends. Alma didn’t need much of an excuse to make desserts for her guests. Sweets were her weakness and almost every evening ended with ice cream or some other sweet treat before bed. 

Alma and Charlie built a life in Tulare and together raised 5 children. She was a devoted mother not only to her 5 children, but to all who entered her home. The house was never too small to accommodate guests, nor the teenage friends her kids had over. She endearingly referred to these friends as “mija” or “mijo”- which the kids loved; but she later admitted to us it was because she couldn’t always remember their names with so many kids in the house! 

Alma was a devoted mother, a dedicated grandmother and a beloved friend. She never missed an opportunity to celebrate milestones or create special memories together. She went so far as to fly to LA for a Grandparents’ Tea fearing her 5-year-old granddaughter would be the only one there without a grandparent- and that would not happen on her watch!  She also loved traveling the world, taking treasured trips with her family and friends to places such as China, Australia, Italy, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, and many other US states. 

Aside from her job as a wife and mom, she was room mom and PTA president at Kohn School for several years and later became the crossing guard there. She worked at Dr. Leatherman Chiropractic for many years before retiring. 

Alma is reunited in Heaven with her parents, Luz and Maria Hernandez; her husband, Carlos Vasquez, and her daughter, Carla Alves. Left to carry on her legacy of love and family are her children, Ron, Carleen, Charles and Chris Vasquez. She is also loved by 2 sons in law- Danny Alves and Ariel Celestino, 6 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. 

Visitation will be held on Monday, March 23rd from 4- 7pm at Peers-Lorentzen Funeral Chapel with the rosary being prayed at 6pm. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, March 24th at 10am at Peers-Lorentzen Funeral Chapel. Interment will follow at the Tulare Cemetery on Kern Street. 

Alma will be remembered for her kindness, humility and deep joy for life. May we continue to live life as joyfully and faithfully as she did.

Connie Denice Covington, born September 29, 1957, in Wyatt, Missouri, passed away on March 1, 2026, in Visalia, California.

Connie was the beloved wife of the late Tony Darrell Covington. Known for her kindness, generosity, and gentle nature, she was a truly sweet woman who always treated others with compassion and never wished harm upon anyone.

She is survived by her mother, Peggy Sanland; her daughter, Dina Bone; her sons, Christopher Garret Covington and Joshua Adam Covington; her sisters, Debra Brown and Pamela Perez; as well as many cherished grandchildren—Stephanie, Jessica, Modesto Jr., and Matthew—and loving great-grandchildren, Isabel, Adrian, Mia, and Ismael. Connie also leaves behind several dear nephews and nieces.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Tony Darrell Covington; her stepfather, Bill Sanland; beloved grandchildren who left too soon: Logan Avery, Kennedy James, and Charlie Olen Covington; her niece, Meagan; and her great-niece, Ilyssa.

A celebration of Connie’s life will be held in Visalia on March 21, 2026. Her memory will be cherished by all who knew and loved her.

Maria was born on July 15, 1931, in Mexico.  She passed away on Friday, February 20, 2026, in Visalia, California at the age of 94.

Visitation will be held Monday, March 16, 2026, from 9:00 am to 10:00 am at Peers-Lorentzen Funeral Chapel, Tulare, California.

A Chapel Service will begin 10:00 am following the Visitation.

Final Resting place- Visalia Public Cemetery District – Visalia, California.

Joyce Bandy, 91, of Tulare, beloved matriarch, entered heaven peacefully on March 3, 2026. Born Joyce Laverne Badgley on July 11, 1934, Joyce spent her entire life in the community she loved. She graduated from Tulare Union High School, where she excelled in the marching band and dance, and where she caught the eye of the love of her life, Bob Bandy, a handsome young basketball player newly-arrived from Kentucky. Joyce attended College of the Sequoias and went on to work at Tulare Meat Company for many years. She served her community faithfully through church, PTA, and the Tulare Historical Museum. Joyce enjoyed square dancing, working in her garden, traveling the world, and having many adventures with her wide circle of friends. Spending time with family was her greatest joy, and she particularly loved hosting large backyard gatherings at her home on holidays and other special occasions.

Joyce was preceded in death by her dear husband of nearly 67 years, Robert Leland Bandy, and her parents William and Bonnie Badgley, who adored their only child. She is survived by four loving children, Carol Greeson (Bill), David Bandy (Cari), Donna Campbell (Webb), and Gayle Morgan (Scott); cherished grandchildren, Brett (Tina) and Ryan (Megan) Greeson, Kyle Lindsey Campbell Sommers (Charlie), Will (Alex) and Cole Campbell, William Morgan, and Madison Bandy; five great-grandchildren, Kiersten Flores (Josh), Kaylee, Kaleb, Ella, and Jake Greeson; and one great-great-grandson, Kooper Flores.

A graveside service will be held at the Tulare District Cemetery at 10am on March 20, 2026, with arrangements provided by Peers Lorentzen Funeral Service. A Celebration of Life will follow at Quail Park on Cypress, 4520 W. Cypress Ave. in Visalia. The family wishes to thank the wonderful staff and gracious residents of Quail Park for the friendships and loving care provided to Joyce over the past five years. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Tulare Historical Museum (Home | Tulare Historical Museum), Infinite Heart Hospice (Ihhospice.com), or the charity of one’s choice.