Peers-Lorentzen

MaryAnn Picanso (Richmond), age 97, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2026, in Bakersfield, California.  

Born on July 2, 1928, in Richmond, California, MaryAnn was the beloved daughter of Charles and Florence Richmond. She spent her formative years in Tulare, where she graduated from Tulare High School and later built a life rooted in family and community.

MaryAnn married Arthur Picanso, with whom she shared many cherished years. Together they made their home in Tulare, raising their family and becoming deeply involved in local youth activities. MaryAnn was especially known for her unwavering dedication to the snack bar at the Tulare baseball park—a place where her warm presence became a fixture and her commitment left a lasting impression on generations of young athletes and their families.

A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, MaryAnn always had time for others. Her home was a welcoming place filled with stories and laughter. She took great joy in visits from family members and was a treasured source of knowledge about family history—her memory serving as a living archive of generations past.

MaryAnn is survived by her sons David (Dodie) and Doug (Diane), along with their children and grandchildren. She also leaves behind her younger brother Charles, affectionately known as Pinky. She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Florence Richmond, and by her beloved husband Arthur Picanso.

MaryAnn’s legacy lives on through the lives she touched with her kindness, generosity, and enduring love for family. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her. A Graveside Service will be held on February 11, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Tulare Public Cemetery 900 East Kern St. A Celebration of her life lunch will follow the service.

The family would like to express sincere appreciation for Hoffman Hospice and their loving and dedicated care.

Patricia was born in California on January 10, 1950.  She passed away on Thursday, December 25, 2025, in Tulare, California at the age of 75.

There are no Services at this time.

Born May 27th, 1953 – Died Jan. 15th, 2026

George Robert Schafer was the firstborn son of Robert and Elenor Schafer, formally known as Elenor Schoenauer of Tulare. George’s father soon became a commercial fisherman.

George did not start school until the 6th grade in Foresthill, CA. At the age of 15, George’s father passed away. His mother relocated the family to Tulare, CA, to be around her family.

George graduated from Tulare Union High School in Tulare, CA. It was there that George met the former Sandra K. Holland. After high school, George and Sandy got married. In June of 1973, George enlisted in the Air Force as a civil engineer Carpenter. His first assignment was at Vanderburg AFB in California. George was later assigned to Korat AFB in Thailand. From there, he went on to be stationed with the Air Force, at the following locations: Plattsburgh, NY, Elmendorf AFB in Alaska, Mac Dill AFB in Tampa, FL, Nellis AFB in Las Vegas, NV, then finally at Malstrom AFB in Great Falls, MT. George cross trained to be a First Sergeant and was assigned to the Stealth Fighter wing at Area 51 in Nevada just before Desert Storm. After 26 years in the Air Force, George retired from Malstrom AFB. After retirement George and Sandy moved back to Visalia, CA, and bought a house where they currently live. George and Sandy had 2 very fine boys, Henry and Jimmy. After college both went on to work for GE Transportation. They both excelled with GE and became shop managers, superintendents, Vice President of Operations, and so on. Both have run some of the largest locomotive shops in North America. George is survived by his loving wife, Sandy Schafer, and his 2 boys, Henry and Jimmy. George is grandfather to 5 grandchildren starting with Henry’s kids, their first and oldest Keely Schafer, then their twins, Henry Schafer Jr and Payge Schafer. Jimmy’s kids are his oldest Jaxon Schafer, and his sister, Harper Schafer. George had numerous remote assignments where he gained recognition Air Force wide, as the Paso Butler building expert. George and 18 civilian carpenters traveled to seven air bases in Thailand to take down the Paso Bulter buildings. They were also used to open a new air base in a location of the south Pacific Diego Garcia. The site was used for heavy bombers during the Vietnam war. After George’s retirement from the US Air Force, he went to work for a company that specialized in Telecommunications projects. He went on to work for several telecom giants such as Nextel, MCI World Com, Verizon,

Equinox and finally T Mobile, where he built their switching facilities. He quickly became the “go to” engineer for telecom switches and data centers. He retired again in 2022 but continued to work from time to time with smaller projects. Anyone that knew him would understand that he was a legend, even if it was in his own mind at times. He will be forever missed, loved but not forgotten!

Graveside Service will take place on Friday, January 30^th at 1:00 p.m. at Tulare District Cemetery located at 900 E. Kern Ave, Tulare, CA 93274. A reception will follow and is being held at The Gardens located at 950 N. J St, Tulare, CA 93274.

Martin Louis Aguilera went home to be with the Lord on January 22, 2026. Everyone knew him and loved him as “Louie”.

Louie was born to Angel and Dolores Aguilera on July 22, 1945, in Tulare, California. He lived 80 glorious years of joy and happiness. 

Louie began his education at Wilson Elementary and then went on to St. Aloysius Catholic School and Tulare Union High School. He was an avid sports fan and attended many football and baseball games which included him going out to cheer on several of his family members and friends who played. His pastime was watching his two favorite football teams, USC Trojans and the San Francisco 49ers, his knowledge of their statistics was phenomenal. As most of you know back in the day, he used to love to play, “Tag, You’re It!” with all of the kids. He faithfully would visit the kids after school at St. Aloysius and Garden School. He would hand out candy and would make sure the students would cross the street safely. He was recognized by Garden School with an award for being there for the kids. He also loved volunteering for the summer vacation Bible school at St. Aloysius. Louie was well known in the community for visiting downtown businesses on his daily walks to Zumwalt park. He brightened up their day with his cheerful attitude. His childlike ways were socially accepted by anyone who crossed his path. He also loved to carry his radio with him while he walked. He was so well-loved that he was chosen to be Grand Marshal for the 2004 Tulare Christmas Parade. He was so proud of being chosen for Grand Marshal that he talked about it all the way until the end of his life. Louie was raised a devout Catholic by his parents, and he faithfully attended both St. Rita’s and St. Aloysius church where he became an honorary member of the Knights of Columbus. 

Louie is survived by his sister Mary B. Vasquez who was also his caretaker, and his brother Lennie Aguilera of San Jose, and numerous nieces and nephews including 2^nd and 3^rd generations. He is preceded in death by his parents Angel Sr. and Dolores Aguilera, his siblings, Belen Aguilera, Camilla Arroyo, Pete Aguilera, Lupe Limon, Connie Aguilera, Angel Jr. Aguilera, Carmelita Aguilera and Encarnacion Aguilera. Louie, we know you are proudly wearing your much earned Angel Wings in God’s Heavenly Kingdom, you will be missed by all the generations that had the privilege of crossing paths with you. Until we meet again, “Tag, You’re It!” 

Visitation will take place on Monday Feb. 9^th from 4 to 7 PM with a Rosary starting at 6 PM at Peers-Lorentzen Funeral Service 132 W. Kern Ave. Tulare, CA.  Mass of Christian Burial will be Tuesday Feb. 10^th at 10:30 AM St. Aloysius Catholic Church 125 E. Pleasant Ave. Tulare, CA. Final resting place will be at Tulare District Cemetery 900 E. Kern Ave. Tulare, CA. 

4/27/1962 – 12/22/2025

Born in California, she was the daughter of Mary Lee Jones and Lee Ray Jones.

She is survived by Carl Jones, Matthew Lusk, Trenton Baltazar and Shelby Valdez. She also has 11 grandkids and 2 great-grandkids.

She is preceded in death by her mother Mary Lee Jones, father Lee Ray Jones, sisters Mary Escalera, Theresa Silva and Patricia Nix.

April 17, 1950 – January 12, 2026 (age 75)

Ruben Jessie Holguin, also known as “Mr. Fine Line,” peacefully passed on January 12, 2026 after an 8-month battle with colon cancer. Ruben was a fighter. He showed incredible strength and positivity throughout his journey- while never missing an opportunity to crack the occasional joke. He will be deeply missed by anyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Ruben was born April 17, 1950 to parents Micaela and Jesus “Jess” Holguin. He was the first of five children and raised in Tulare. He graduated from Tulare Western High School with the Class of 1968. He served his country with the United States Army from 1969 – 1971. He was first stationed in Vietnam, followed by Germany. During this time, he began writing letters to a nice girl back home who would become the love of his life.

Ruben and Jacqueline Sigala of Tulare were married on June 20, 1975. The two celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary last year. They enjoyed holding hands, trips to Morro Bay and watching their favorite TV show, The Twilight Zone.

As many can confirm, Ruben was best known for his flawless pinstriping work. Nicknamed “Mr. Fine Line” by Ed “Big Daddy” Roth, Ruben’s work can be spotted all over the central valley. His business, Pinstriping by Ruben, spanned 51 years. During this time, he developed a distinct style, built a name for himself and formed countless friendships throughout the automotive industry.

Music played a large role in Ruben’s life. As a young man overseas, Ruben purchased vinyl records in Germany to mail back home. He also enjoyed listening to music on his 8-track player and reel to reel player. Ruben was a major Beatles fan and appreciated music of all genres. In the 1980s, Ruben played drums in a weekly jam band formed by several friends at his shop. On occasion he would also sing lead vocals.

Ruben’s pride and joy was his two-tone 1955 Chevy. It was originally owned by his parents, however he became its new owner after returning from the army. As a young couple, Ruben and Jackie would often cruise Mooney Boulevard while listening to their favorite 8-track tapes. In 2020, Ruben was thrilled to finally restore his Chevy with the help of close friends.

He is preceded in death by parents Micaela and Jess, brothers Abel, Mark and David, and sister-in-law Marie.

He is survived by his wife Jackie Holguin of Visalia, his son Rene Holguin (Denise) of Visalia, his daughter Amber Holguin Seifritz (Hollis) of Los Angeles, his sister Delia “Dede” Ahumada (Jesse) of Tulare, his two granddaughters Marissa Holguin and Kimberly Holguin, both of Visalia, and many, many close friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the following organizations:



• VA Central California Health Care System
  • Kaweah Health Ruth Wood Open Arms House

The family would like to thank the nurses at the Ruth Wood Open Arms House, the oncology team at the Fresno VA Medical Center and all friends and family who gave support during this difficult time.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, 4-7 p.m. at Peers-Lorentzen Funeral Home.

Recitation of the Rosary will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, 6 p.m. at Peers-Lorentzen Funeral Home.

Mass of the Resurrection will be held on Thursday, January 22, 2026, 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 608 N. Church Street, Visalia, with a burial at Tulare Public Cemetery North, 4572 J Street, Tulare.

Hector Guerrero, 56, went to heaven on December 24, 2025. Hector was born in Tulare, California, on April 26, 1969. 

Hector was a gifted gardener.  He had many friends that he cared for deeply, and those same friends cared for him, too.  He was always happy and generous, regardless of what he was going through. Hector loved his children and was proud to be a grandfather.  

He is preceded in death by his parents, Angel and Beatrice Guerrero.  Hector is survived by his beloved children, Hector Jr., Madelyn (Michael), A’maris, and Abram (Tiffany).  

His grandchildren are Adeline, Jameis, Alyse, Pries,t and Anyicia. 

His siblings are Carol (Robert) Cruz, Dora (late husband Lupe) Fernandez, Elsie (late husband David) Gutierrez, Fred Guerrero, and Gracie Guerrero-Sousa (Carl). 

We will always love and miss him as a dear father, brother, nephew, and friend in our hearts. 

“The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.” – Genesis 2:15. 

Hector’s viewing will take place on Friday, January 16^th, 2026, from 4-7 p.m. at Peers-Lorentzen Funeral Service. To send condolences or sign the family guest book, please CLICK HERE to send. Peers-Lorentzen Funeral Services is in charge of arrangements.

Isabelle Dorothy Bales was born on June 29, 1934, in New Jersey and passed peacefully on January 6, 2026, at her residence in Tulare, CA.

She is preceded in death by her husband Robert E. Bales Sr., her parents Ernest and Ella Sisco, brother Arthur Sisco and sisters: Laurel, Sadie, Rachel, Violet, Florence and Marie, daughter Etta Turner and 3 grandchildren: Charity, Amy and Steven Lenox II.

She is survived by her 4 sons: Sanford Sisco, Randy Williams, Robert E. Bales Jr. and Donald Bales, 2 daughters: Robin Gibbons and Sandra Martinez. Grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. 

We will always love and miss her dearly. 

Isabelle’s viewing will take place on Thursday, January 8, 2026, from 1-3 p.m. at Peers-Lorentzen Funeral Service. She will be interred at Tipton Pixley Cemetery at a later date where she will be laid to rest with her loving husband Robert R. Bales Sr.

To send condolences or sign the family guest book, please CLICK HERE to send. Peers-Lorentzen Funeral Services is in charge of arrangements.

Amelia Perez Manzano, 78, of Tulare, California, was called home to be with her Lord and Savior on January 2, 2026. She was born on October 21, 1947, in Tulare, California, and was a proud graduate of Tulare Union High School.

Amelia lived her life anchored in faith and grace. She walked closely with Jesus throughout her years, and her deep love for the Lord shaped the woman she was — caring, nurturing, compassionate, and quietly strong. She had a gentle spirit and a heart that made everyone feel welcomed, even through life’s hardships.

She found joy in the simple blessings of life and loved listening to Oldies but Goodies, especially Elvis Presley. Music brought her comfort, and she lovingly shared this passion with her son and grandchildren, creating memories that will be cherished forever.

Amelia is survived by her sister, Rachael Curlin and husband Melvin; her son and daughter-in-law, Angel Ralph and Naomi Manzano; her grandson, Angel Valentin Manzano; her granddaughter-in-law, Gabrielle Manzano; her granddaughter, Marissa Diamante Manzano; and her great-grandchildren, Roxanne Louise Manzano, Genesis Viola Cortez, and Walter Lee Manzano.

She was preceded in death by her loving mother, Pastora Portillo Penaloza; her loving father, Ralph Perez; her sisters, Maria Villa, Rosa Perez, and Sandra Aguilar; her brother, Rudy Castellanos; and her husband, Margarito Manzano.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, January 8, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with a Rosary beginning at 6:00 p.m., at Peers Lorentzen Funeral Home, 132 W. Kern, Tulare, CA 93274. A chapel service will also be held at this location on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 12:00 p.m., with burial to follow at North Tulare Cemetery.

Arrangements are entrusted to Peers Lorentzen Funeral Service.

Amelia leaves behind a legacy of faith, resilience, kindness, and unconditional love that will continue to live on through her family and all who were blessed to know her.

She will be deeply missed and forever held in our hearts.

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” — Matthew 5:4

To send condolences or sign the family guest book, please CLICK HERE to send. Peers-Lorentzen Funeral Services is in charge of arrangements.

September 3, 1921 – January 2, 2026

Mary Lee Johnson, 104, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026, at her home in Tulare, California, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on September 3, 1921, in Louisiana, Mary Lee moved to California at the age of 23. She settled in Richmond, California, where she worked in the San Francisco shipyards during the war years. While in San Francisco, she met her husband, Maceo, and they moved to Tulare, where she made it her lifelong home.

Mary Lee lived a long and beautiful life marked by faith, resilience, strength, devotion, and unwavering love for her family. Her wisdom and grace spanned more than a century, touching the lives of everyone blessed to know her.

For more than 50 years, Mary Lee worked with two Tulare families — Joe and Priscilla Schott, and John and Jessie Torres — as a housekeeper and nanny. She became like a second mother to their children: Sally, Susan, Janice, Pamela, Frankie, and Joey Schott, and John, Joe, Rachael, and Peter Torres, who affectionately called her “Mommy Mary Lee.” Over the years, her relationship with Priscilla Schott grew into a deep and lasting friendship. Even after Mary Lee retired, she and Priscilla visited often and remained devoted to one another until Priscilla’s passing on January 14th, 2025. Every year, Priscilla would send Mary Lee “dolma” — one of her favorite Armenian dishes — and Mary Lee would return the love by sending Priscilla several of her famous sweet-potato pies.

One of Mary Lee’s greatest joys in life was witnessing her son, Bobby, overcome years of addiction and rebuild his life with purpose and compassion. She lived long enough to see him earn his doctorate in clinical psychology, become a published author and college professor, be invited to give a TED Talk, and serve as a respected leader in the field of substance-abuse treatment — dedicating his life to helping others, just as she always had. Knowing that her love, faith, and steadfast support had helped shape the man he became filled her heart with immeasurable pride and gratitude.

Mary Lee was equally proud of the devoted husband, loving father, and honorable man her nephew-son Willie became. Though her nephew by birth, Willie came to live with Mary Lee when he was 7 years old and was lovingly raised alongside Bobby as her own son. She took great pride in his service to his country as a United States Marine and in his honorable discharge. Throughout his life, Willie embodied the values Mary Lee cherished — loyalty, responsibility, family devotion, and quiet strength — and seeing the husband and father he became, brought her deep joy and fulfillment.

Mary Lee also found  great joy in her gardening. She lovingly surrounded her small but immaculate Matheny Tract home with her award-winning roses, which brought beauty not only to her yard, but to all who passed by.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Maceo, and her longtime companion, Lee Carr. She is survived by her son, Dr. Bobby J. Davis, his wife Debbie, and stepchildren Jeff, Anthony, Raymond, Brianna, Serena, and Angelo; her beloved nephew, Willie D. Burns, and her granddaughter from a prior marriage, Crishuana. Mary Lee is also lovingly survived by Willie’s wife, Carolyn, and their daughters, Ebony and Mahogany; as well as 16 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Grounded in her faith, Mary Lee was saved and baptized at the age of 12. After moving to California, she made New Zion Baptist Church her first church home and later became a devoted member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church. She lived her life in the spirit of Matthew 25 — with kindness, generosity, humility, and a heart for service.

I was hungry. you fed me.
I was thirsty, you gave me water.
I was a stranger, you invited me in.
I was naked. you clothed me.
I was sick. you cared for me.
I was in prison, you visited me.
MATTHEW 25: 35 – 36

Mary Lee will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her life was a testimony to endurance, grace, and love — and her legacy will live on in the many lives she shaped and the family who will forever cherish her memory.

Funeral Services

A viewing will be held on Thursday, January 15, 2026, from 9:00–10:00 a.m. at Peers-Lorentzen Chapel, 132 W. Kern Ave., Tulare, CA 93274, with a funeral service immediately following.

Following the service, a repast will be held at the Tulare Silvercrest Community Room, 350 N. L Street, Tulare, CA. All who loved Mary Lee are welcome to join the family in remembering and honoring her life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mary Lee’s memory to Sacramento Recovery House, Inc. at:
https://www.sacrecovery.org/contact-us.html

To send condolences or sign the family guest book, please CLICK HERE to send. Peers-Lorentzen Funeral Services is in charge of arrangements.