Owned George’s & Matchmaker

Services April 19

George Nikolas Carasis, lovingly known to both family and friends as “Pappou” (Greek for Grandpa), passed away on March 16th, 2026, at the age of 96, after a long and full life defined by resilience, humor, and deep love for his family. 

George was a man who loved the simple joys in life – tending to his garden, fishing and hunting, caring for animals, and walking his loyal German Shepherd, Bobo, well into his nineties. His pastimes truly reflected his steady grounded spirit, which carried him from a small village in Greece to a full life in America.

Born in 1929 in the village of Pasa, Greece, George was raised in a one-room home by his parents, Nikolas and Efrosini, alongside his six siblings: Sotiria, Panayiota, Eleni, Dimitri, Tasos, and Alexandra. His childhood was shaped by rural village life, and he lived through extraordinary historical events, including the Italian and German fascist occupations of Greece and the Greek Civil War. Yet even in hardship, his early years were filled with stories that he enjoyed telling for decades – from being given a flock of sheep as punishment for skipping school, to the long and mountainous trek by horseback with his father to see a medicine man when he mysteriously lost all of his hair (a remedy that seemed to work, as he managed to keep a full head of hair for the rest of his life). As a teenager in Greece, George apprenticed as a barber and even opened his own shop in his village, before serving as a military barber in the Greek Army. 

In 1955, however, with only a few dollars in his pocket and no knowledge of English, he boarded an airplane for the first time and immigrated to the United States. California became his new home, joining his uncle Alex in the Bay Area. He began working in a canning factory in San Leandro, before eventually making his way into the restaurant industry, where he began his successful career as a restaurateur.

He began his first establishment inside of the Pittsburg Clover Club, opening the night club each morning for a daily breakfast that he barely broke a profit on. Determined to stick to it, he later founded the first restaurant of his own in Pittsburg, which he aptly named George’s, and building on that success, went on to open the Matchmaker in Antioch, and, finally, a new George’s Restaurant in Antioch. He became known community-wide for his hospitality and exceptional food and was frequently stopped in public well into his retirement years when people recognized him as the owner of the restaurants that held so many classic memories for them. 

Together with his first wife, Claudette, he raised three children: Arthur, Alexandria, and Nick, who were the pride of his life. George was also blessed to have gotten many years with his grandchildren- Nikki, Christina, Alexandria, Katrina, Randy, George, and Cecilia, as well as his great-grandchildren- Basil, Liberty, Calliope, Indigo, and Elizabeth. 

He treasured going on outings for milkshakes and fries with his great-granddaughters and proudly led Greek dances at his granddaughter’s wedding. He even got to attend his eldest great-grandchild’s high school graduation.

Though he endured the unimaginable loss of all three of his children before his own passing, as well as the loss of his wife Patricia, he had a love for his family that was unparalleled. After the death of his daughter, he stepped into the role of caregiver to raise his granddaughter, Christina, during his retirement years. In doing so, he was able to pass on the connection to his Greek heritage and language to her, and to her children, which is something she will cherish forever. 

Deeply proud of this heritage, George found great joy in seeing his family reconnect with their ancestral homeland. After a 28-year absence since his previous visit, he chose to spend his final weeks in his family’s village, reconnecting with loved ones there one last time. He was buried on March 17th, 2026 in the Pasa village cemetery, alongside his sister Eleni, his brother Taso, their parents, and grandparents. 

In the Greek tradition, we memorialize those who have passed by saying, “αιώνια η μνήμη του”, or “may his memory be eternal.” 

In the life he built, the stories he told, the family he nurtured, and the legacy he leaves behind, George’s memory will indeed be eternal.

Although his funeral was held in his home village in Greece, a memorial service with 40th day prayers will be observed at 3:30pm on April 19th at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 1955 Kirker Pass Rd., Concord, CA. 

All are welcome to attend, and a memorial gathering with light refreshments will be offered in the hall following the prayers, for all those who loved him here in California.

Pancho “John” Salvador, 94, passed away peacefully March 16, 2026, in Bakersfield, CA. Born September 30, 1931, in Sherman Island, CA, he spent most of his life in the East Bay and graduated from Pittsburg High School.

John served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and was honorably discharged. He married Ada Tanzo on July 22, 1956, and together they raised three children: Jay, Wendy, and Tod.

A mechanic by trade, John later worked for the Antioch Unified School District until retirement. He was known for his ability to fix almost anything and was a trusted mechanic to many.

He enjoyed boating, gardening, photography, motorcycles, and time with family. He and Ada moved to Bakersfield in 2005.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Ada; his son, Jay; his parents; and several siblings. He is survived by his daughter, Wendy (Paul); his son, Tod; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren.

Mass will be held on March 26, 2026, at 11:00 AM, Most Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 1313 A Street, Antioch. Interment to follow at Oak View Memorial Park, Antioch. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a local hospice organization.

Stephen Belleci was born in Oakley, California on February 22, 1943, and passed away on February 1, 2026, at the age of 82 from congestive heart failure. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Virginia Belleci of Antioch; his daughter and son-in-law, Vicki and Brian Pancino of Huntington Beach; his son and daughter-in-law, Randy and Tiffany Belleci of Elk Grove; and his four grandchildren—Kiana and Mikaila Pancino, Emmalee Belleci, and Ethan Belleci. He is also survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Francine and Mike Sturm of Penn Valley.

A graduate of Liberty High School and Diablo Valley College, Stephen began his career working at the fiberboard and the local nursery before joining the Antioch School District. In 1970 he transitioned to the City of Antioch Parks Department, where he served for 26 years and retired in 1996 as the Parks Department Supervisor. His dedication to his work and his pride in serving the community were evident throughout his career.

In retirement, Stephen enjoyed pheasant hunting, fishing, spending time with friends, and cheering on his grandchildren in dance, soccer and softball.  Known for his big personality, he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Per his wishes, no formal service will be held. His family will honor him privately.

“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.