“Doc Hollywood” said “I give out hope not prescription dope”

Celebration of Life January 30th

Dr. Lance Lindale Miller, age 59, passed away on December 26, 2025, in Walnut Creek, California. He was born on July 3, 1966, in Walnut Creek.

Lance was the beloved husband of Treasure Miller and a devoted father to Alexis, Ashley, Haley and Presley Miller. He was also a loving father-in-law to Victor Galli. He is survived by his father, Jimmie Miller, and his brother, Jimmie Miller. He was preceded in death by his mother, Patricia Miller, and his brother, Brian Miller. He is also lovingly remembered by his cherished dogs, Kash and Cilla, who were a special part of his daily life and family.

Lance was a man full of life — kind, loving, generous, outgoing and faithful. He had a contagious joy and an unforgettable presence. He had a way of lighting up a room without even having to say a word, known for his bright smile, infectious energy and love for bold neon colors. He truly loved life and lived it to the fullest.

Family was everything to Lance. He deeply loved his wife and daughters, and cherished time spent together. Outside of family and work, he enjoyed golf, trips to Tahoe, the beach, vacations and cheering on his favorite teams, including the San Francisco 49ers and The U. He was a jokester, a gift-giver and a steady, uplifting presence to all who knew him.

Lance graduated from Antioch High School in 1984. He attended Los Medanos College and New College of California in San Francisco, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology. He went on to earn his Doctorate of Chiropractic from Life West College, graduating in 1991.

Dr. Miller practiced chiropractic care for 34 years and was the owner and lead chiropractor of Miller Chiropractic Injury Center in Antioch. Chiropractic care was never “just a job” to Lance — it was his calling. His slogan, “I give out hope, not prescription dope,” reflected his commitment to healing without reliance on medication. His personal motto was, “Live every day like it’s your last,” a belief he embodied fully in both his work and his life. He also believed deeply that he moved the bone, and God did the healing, approaching every patient interaction with humility, compassion and faith. He was committed to one-on-one patient care, always taking the time to listen, connect and make every patient feel seen, valued and cared for.

Lance had a deep love for his community and generously volunteered his time, especially in support of high school athletics. He devoted countless hours caring for student-athletes, providing treatment on the sidelines and supporting football, basketball and cheer programs. He found great purpose in helping young athletes stay healthy and active, and his presence and generosity made a lasting impact on the schools and families he served.

A man of Christian faith, Lance leaned on his faith throughout his life and especially during his illness. His unwavering trust in God provided strength and comfort and inspired those around him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on January 30, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Fellowship Church, located at 4873 Lone Tree Way, Antioch, California. There will be no reception to follow.

In honor of Dr. Lance Miller, the family plans to eventually create a nonprofit under his legacy. This future organization will reflect his passion for chiropractic care, one-on-one patient connection and compassionate healing.

Dr. Miller’s legacy lives on through his family, his patients and the countless lives he touched through his healing hands, joyful spirit and faithful heart.

As Doc would say, “Elvis has left the building.”

A Life to Remember: June 8, 1961 – December 29, 2025

Clarke Christian Wilson was born on June 8, 1961, in Buffalo, New York, to the proud parents James Arthur Wilson, Sr. and Theonia Lee Smoot-Wilson. From an early age, Clarke’s life was shaped by faith, family, music, and a deep love of sports.

Clarke was educated in the Buffalo Public School system and graduated from Kensington High School, Class of 1979. He was known for his love of music and was blessed with a melodic high tenor voice that brought joy to those who heard him sing. Music remained a lifelong passion and a meaningful form of expression throughout his life.

Clarke had a very strong work ethic and started his working career in the steel mill in Buffalo, NY upon arriving to California he worked as a bouncer at the Palladium. Clarke knew he loved the art of public service and started working at AC Transit and maintained employment for 18 years where he started as a Bus Operator then promoted to Road Supervisor and later retired. Eager to return, his love for Public Transportation continued for an additional 18 years working for various transit agencies.

A devoted sports enthusiast, Clarke was a die-hard Buffalo Bills fan and a proud bandwagon supporter of the Oakland Raiders and most recently the San Francisco 49ers. Basketball also held a special place in his heart, especially the Golden State Warriors. He cherished attending Warriors games with his wife and children and enjoyed exclusive team experiences that created lasting family memories.

On December 31,1986, Clarke married Mele Enisalini Pouliviaati. From this union, his firstborn son, James Arthur Wilson, was born on August 11, 1987. Clarke and Mele divorced in 1990, after which Clarke embraced the role of a dedicated single father.

On September 3, 1998, Clarke married Velma Roberts-Wilson. Shortly thereafter, on October 14, 1998, he welcomed his first daughter, Lauren Madison Ford-Wilson, with her mother, Lynelle Ford. Clarke and Velma made a loving and committed decision to raise his children together as a family. Their union was further blessed with the birth of two children: Claryssa Christian Wilson, born December 16, 2000, and Jesse Allen Lee Wilson, born May 4, 2002. They moved to Antioch in 2011.

Clarke’s faith journey began at Shiloh Baptist Church in Buffalo, New York. Later, he became a member of Greater Cooper AME Zion Church. Upon marrying Velma, he joined New Life Gathering, under the covering of Pastor Charles Thomas, Sr., where he continued to grow in faith and fellowship.

Clarke Christian Wilson traded life for eternity on Monday, December 29, 2025, at 1:49 pm, he will be remembered for his love of family, his soulful voice with his love for smooth jazz, R&B and gospel music, his unwavering sports loyalty, his awkwardly witty sense of humor and dry sarcasm and his commitment to faith and fatherhood. His legacy lives on through his children, family, and all whose lives he touched.

Clarke was preceded in death by his father James Arthur Wilson, his mother Theonia Lee “Sweets” Smoot, two brothers – James “Jimmy” Arthur Wilson, Jr. and Vincent Warren Wilson, four sisters – Lois, Ione, Doris and Delores, several sisters- and brothers- in-law, and several uncles and aunts. To cherish his memory, Clarke leaves behind his loyal wife of 27 years Velma Wilson, four children James Arthur Wilson, Lauren Madison Ford-Wilson, Claryssa Christian Wilson and Jesse Allen Lee Wilson; his Grandson Vehikite Christian Wilson; his last surviving brother John Allen Smith; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Glada Pauline Catanzaro, 97, of Antioch, CA, passed away peacefully on December 16, 2025.  Born on June 27, 1928, in Gideon, OK, she was the devoted wife of the late former Antioch City Councilman Victor Catanzaro for 45 years, a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.  

She dedicated her life to creating a nurturing home for her family and loved nothing more than spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, whom she helped raise. She was a woman of faith and a long time parishioner of the Most Holy Rosary Catholic Church.  She was active in her community, a member of the Fraternal order of the Eagles, and the Young Ladies Institute of the Catholic Church.  She was known for her cooking, her contagious laugh, her warm heart, and welcoming home. She especially loved camping in her motor home, going on Caribbean cruises with her husband and many friends, and gambling in the casinos.  

She is survived by her son Leonard Catanzaro and longtime partner Linda Jaramillo, daughter Victoria Catanzaro, grand-daughter Paula Martinez-Crawford and husband Brian Crawford, and great-grandchildren Danielle and Brandon Crawford. A Viewing and Rosary will be held on January 15, 2026, from 5:00-8:00 pm, and the funeral will be held on January 16, 2026, starting at 11:00 am, both at Higgins Chapel in Antioch, CA.

A celebration of life will follow from 3:00-5:00 pm at Skipolini’s in Oakley.  

Husband of Antioch School Board trustee and former mayor, father of Antioch councilman and former Antioch High principal

Louis Gilbert Rocha passed away peacefully at home in Antioch, California, at the age of 90. Born in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, he was the beloved son of Lucas Rocha and Theresa Mijares.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings; Tony, Trina, Nellie, Bessie, Robert, Connie and Richard; son Greg and great-grandson Anthony.

He is survived by his sister Virginia Tart (Buck), loving wife Mary Helen; children Louie Rocha (Tammy) and Jessica Fernandez (Harold); grandchildren Louis Rocha II (Isychia), Ruben Rocha, Greg Rocha Jr. (Brenda), Marcela Meleah and Miley; great-grandchildren Louis III, Isychia, Ahteeiona and Lucas. 

Lou’s early life was shaped by his family’s Dust Bowl journey from Nebraska to California. As the oldest son, he worked the fields to help support his family and later became a standout athlete at Escalon High School, earning All-Conference honors in football and graduated in 1954.

He married Mary Helen Bajaras in 1957 and served proudly in the U.S. Army Tank Battalion during the Korean War, receiving an honorable discharge in 1960.

Lou and Mary raised their family in Antioch, where he worked as a Foreman at Standard Pipe and volunteered extensively in youth sports and community service. He supported Mary’s public service career with devotion and pride, always placing family first.

A proud veteran, dedicated father, supportive husband, and loving grandfather, Lou will be remembered as the quiet strength of his family—the “Wind Beneath Their Wings.”

Funeral Services

Catholic Funeral Mass:

January 30, 2026, at 10:00AM

St. Ignatius Catholic Church, Antioch, California 

Military Honors Burial:

January 30, 2026, at 1:30PM

Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, Dixon, California 

Celebration of Life:

January 30, 2026, at 3:00PM

VFW Post – Fulton Shipyard, Antioch, California

Service to be held Sept. 25 in Pittsburg

By Antioch High School

A standout and beloved Antioch High coach passed away on Sept. 15.

In the 1990s, Sam Johnson led the Antioch High girls basketball team for more than 10 years. He and his wife, Gwen, produced two Antioch Sports Legends Hall of Fame inductees – Stacy Johnson (HOF 2014) and Courtney Johnson (HOF 2015.)

The couple also often volunteered at the sports museum.

John Whitman, legendary AHS coach, wrote in a post: “We have lost a true role model in the passing of Sam Johnson … (He) was a a great coach and teacher in life and all who crossed paths with him are better for it! His mild-mannered approach was always evident in the heat of battle while making the whole experience a learning opportunity and fun for all. I am a better coach and person having Sam as my mentor.”

Said former player Kelli Phillips Bryson (Class of 1997): “He was a mentor, a role model, and a steady presence who shaped us on and off the court.”

Coach Johnson’s service will be held Sept. 25 with the viewing from 10-11am and funeral at 11am at First Baptist Church in Pittsburg.

To be honored posthumously with Antioch Citizen of the Year for Lifetime Achievement Award at annual Chamber Gala

Jimmy Gray Bean, born, October 12, 1939, in Pleasant Garden, N.C. passed away December 26, 2024, at age 85 in Antioch, CA. Jimmy is survived by his spouse Jane, children, Laura, Mark, Ken and Regina, plus eight Grandchildren: Danielle, Kris, Carl, Cheyenne, Nicole, Robbie, Brianna and Melissa, and seven Great Grandchildren: Anthony, Alexis, Aubry, Madison, Ashley, Magnum and Jordan. Jimmy dedicated his life to his family as well as his community.

He served in the National Guard in his home state of North Carolina then as a business owner and life-long member of the Antioch Lions Club as well as the Chamber of Commerce and Delta Advocacy. Jimmy owned the A Street Chevron station for many years. He also owned the Bridgehead Chevron Station and the Chevron Station near Somersville Towne Center.

He loved his family, golf, taking photos, wine, Elvis, celebrating accomplishments and assisting anyone in their time of need.

Friend Martha Goralka shared, “Jimmy was a life-long member of the Antioch Chamber of the Antioch Chamber of Commerce. He always paid his bill on time and when we suddenly had to close and volunteers had to make calls to see if members were willing to continue their membership, I was assigned to call Jimmy Bean. He said ‘yes, of course I want to continue,’ and paid immediately! My boss at the Daily Ledger, Bob Smith, always said Jimmy was an amazing man who put community first and was a self-made man. Bob thought very highly of Jimmy Bean.”
She also mentioned that during the annual County Fair, Jimmy volunteered in the Lion’s Club beer booth.

Mike Green of the Delta Advocacy Foundation said, “Jimmy was one of our esteemed Spearhead members, alongside Leo Fontana, Jack Roddy and Gordan Gravelle. He was actively involved during the organization’s early years and played a significant role in its growth, eventually part of the organization becoming a million-dollar donor. His contributions were instrumental in all our major fundraisers. Jimmy ensured we had ice and that the Lion’s Club was available to help serve food and beer.”

“In honor of Jimmy and his dedication to the Lion’s Club, Delta Advocacy is purchasing a $9,000 vision assessment tool. This will enable the Lions of Byron and Brantwood to conduct vision screenings for elementary students in their communities.

“Without question, Jimmy’s life leaves behind a lasting legacy—an example for all of us to follow.”

According to friend George Boring, the Antioch Chamber of Commerce will be honoring Jimmy with the Citizen of the Year for Lifetime Achievement Award at their annual Gala on March 28, 2025.

A celebration of the life and times of Jimmy Bean was held on Feb. 8, 2025, at the VFW Hall in Antioch. In lieu of flowers, donations can go to the Antioch Lions Club, P.O. Box 324, Antioch, CA 94509.

Founder and Director of Mau Loa Ohana dance studio in Antioch, Monique Castaneda’s love of life and personal relationship with God didn’t come to an end with her death. Monique passed away on November 23, 2024, at the age of 58 after a courageous fight with Polymyositis and B Cell Lymphoma, surrounded by loved ones who will continue to honor her legacy of sharing the Aloha Spirit and living their lives to the fullest.

Monique was born on May 5, 1966 in Oakland, California, graduated from Presentation High School in Berkeley and worked at Wells Fargo Bank retiring at an early age to be a full-time mother.

Monique lived a purpose driven life by uplifting those in need through dance and was a disciple for Christ sharing her love for God through praise and dance. She founded the annual “Hula Away The Cancer Ho’ike” in 2010 to fundraise for The American Cancer Society, Relay for Life and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital donating thousands of dollars for cancer research.

Her final show was held on October 12, 2024, at Antioch’s El Campanil Theatre.

Monique’s passions were her love for God, family, fashion, fitness, travel and Mau Loa Ohana. Her loving personality was contagious to everyone she met. The hula studio was her happy place and those that Walked-In, Hula-Out with the Aloha Spirit.

Monique is survived by her loving husband, Raul; daughters Alexsandra and Kiana; son-in-law Gregory; grandson Oliver; Sisters Joyce and Tina; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Local former city officials offer their memories of the advocate for pets

“Her greatest wish was that all people would responsibly raise their pets, and any strays would be adopted. Barbara wanted everyone to love and care for an animal.” – former Antioch Mayor and councilman-elect Don Freitas

By Allen D. Payton

The Antioch Friends of Animal Services is mourning the passing of its founder, Barbara Sobalvarro, today. In a post on the group’s Facebook page on Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024, they wrote, “It is with great sorrow we share with you the passing of our Founder, Honorary President and Cherished Friend, Barbara Sobalvarro.

Barbara’s remarkable legacy leaves an enduring impact on our hearts and we extend our most heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, the community and the cherished animals she devoted her life to saving.

‘Seldom does a heart feel better, than when you save the life of one of our animal friends’
Barbara Sobalvarro

Aug 18, 1941- Nov 6, 2024

We’ll share more about Barbara in the coming days. As you can imagine, we need some time to process this profound and unexpected loss.

Please consider saving a life at Antioch Animal Services in her memory………”

Founded in 1979 following the passage of the City’s advisory measure in 1978, in which “the citizens of Antioch voted overwhelmingly in favor of maintaining a local animal services program and became unique in Contra Costa County in this regard. Soon after this election, the Friends of Animal Services was formed for the express purpose of guaranteeing the people of Antioch a humane and comprehensive Animal Services program with an emphasis on a quality Animal Shelter and maximum responsible adoptions of animals,” according to the group’s website.

As a result, Antioch is the only city of the 19 in the county to operate its own animal shelter.

“From its political beginnings, the Friends has enriched the Animal Services program for nearly twenty years through fund-raising, education, volunteer efforts, community events, and even beautification of the shelter and its surrounding grounds and—of course, through its continuing monitoring of local government!” said Sobalvarro about her organization.

It became a powerful organization that successfully blocked efforts to cut the budget for and close the Antioch Animal Services and shelter and give the responsibility back to the County.

Former Antioch Mayor, and recently elected District 3 council candidate, Don Freitas, a long-time friend of Sobalvarro and supporter said, “Barbara was an extraordinary advocate for the humane treatment of animals. She was able to politically weaponize the support of many in the community. She was a power to reckon with.”

“One of her biggest focuses was the successful creation of the Antioch Animal Services and shelter,” he added. “I’m actually kind of shocked. She was such a part of Antioch for the past three decades, it’s hard to believe she has passed. Her greatest wish was that all people would responsibly raise their pets, and any strays would be adopted. Barbara wanted everyone to love and care for an animal.”

About Sobalvarro former Mayor Joel Keller said, “She was a dedicated community member who loved animals and worked hard to ensure their safety and well-being.”

About the animal shelter he said, “We did put a funding stream toward it,” referring to three percent of the City’s 10 percent Transient Occupancy Tax on hotel and motel stays in Antioch.

Former Mayor Pro Tem and Councilman Manny Soliz also offered his thoughts on Sobalvarro’s passing. “This is a great loss for Animal Services and me personally,” he shared. “I had a long, personal relationship with her and her late husband Estuardo. I’m very sad, but grateful for having been friends with her.”

Learn more about Antioch Friends of Animal Services on their website.

Sobalvarro was also a piano teacher and could be seen performing her music at the Lone Tree Golf and Event Center during brunch on Sundays, and at other events in the community.