Category Archives: In Memory

Donald “Don” Allen Murrin — Class of 1977

The family of Don Murrin announces with heavy hearts his recent passing. A man of remarkable character and skill, Don was described by his daughter, Melissa, as the anchor and heartbeat of their family. He balanced a quickness to forgive with a firm sense of right and wrong, guiding those he loved with both kindness and honesty.

A true “jack-of-all-trades,” Don possessed a powerful work ethic and a rare talent for design and construction. His family also relied on his sharp mind for medical insights, jokingly referring to him as “Dr. Don” for his ability to find answers to any health-related question.

Don was a proud part of a multi-generational Trona family. He was the son of Ted (class of ’55) and Orrene [Slafter] (class of’54) Murrin, and part of a long line of Murrins who attended Trona High School.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Trona on July 5, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Friends and community members wishing to attend are asked to RSVP to Melissa Wollard via Facebook. The family appreciates your thoughts and prayers.

Frank Struska — Class of 1979

Frank Struska and his partner, Debbie, passed away together in a tragic car accident, leaving behind a legacy of kindness that touched everyone who knew them.

Frank and Debbie were the heart of their circles—always the first to offer a helping hand and the last to let a friend go without support. While their absence leaves a profound void, their spirit lives on through their son, Benjamin, and their beloved grandsons, Colton and Cody.

To help the family navigate this unimaginable time, we are seeking donations to ease the sudden financial weight of funeral and memorial costs. Your generosity allows Benjamin and the boys to focus on grieving and healing together. Please keep the Struska family in your hearts.

Remembering Frank and Debbie Struska

Frank and Debbie Struska didn’t just live in their community; they built it. To know them was to be treated like family. They were defined by a quiet, steady kindness and a generosity that never asked for recognition. They loved deeply, gave without hesitation, and left an indelible mark on every life they touched.

A Legacy of Strength and Devotion

At the heart of their lives was their family. Their greatest pride resided in their son, Benjamin, and their two grandsons, Colton and Cody. They were a unit bound by fierce loyalty and decades of shared joy.

Following in the footsteps of his father, a former Texas college player, Frank developed a deep love for the game. He carved out his own reputation as a fullback at Trona High, mastering the sport on the iconic dirt of Griffith Field, better known to locals as ‘The Pit.'”

Frank’s dedication was legendary. For over ten years, he coached football in the Kern River Valley, pouring his heart into young athletes. Even after becoming a paraplegic, his commitment to the game and his community never wavered—a testament to a level of strength that inspired everyone who met him. And through every challenge and every triumph, Debbie was right there.

For nearly 40 years, Frank and Debbie were inseparable. They were best friends and partners in the truest sense, standing side-by-side through life’s ups and downs, all the way until the very end.

A Sudden Farewell

On the afternoon of March 28th, just miles from their home, Frank and Debbie’s journey together came to a tragic end in a car accident. Their passing has left an unimaginable void in the hearts of their family and the entire community they loved so well.

How You Can Help

As Benjamin and his family navigate this profound grief, we are reaching out to ease the sudden financial weight that follows such a loss. Your donations will go directly toward:

  • Final resting costs and memorial services.

  • Travel expenses for grieving loved ones.

  • Home transition costs, including cleaning, preparation, and moving expenses.

Our goal is to provide Benjamin the space to mourn his parents without the added burden of financial stress.

Any contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference. If you are unable to donate at this time, please consider sharing this page and keeping the Struska family in your thoughts and prayers.

Frank and Debbie’s legacy of love and resilience lives on through their son, their grandsons, and the community that will never forget them.

https://gofund.me/ea7b390dc

Barbara Knight

Barbara (Knight) Rector — Class of 1954

Barbara Rector, a longtime pillar of the Trona community, will be honored with a memorial service on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 12:00 PM at the Searles Valley Cemetery. A reception celebrating her life will follow at the Trona Senior Center.

Born in Bakersfield, Barbara moved to Trona in 1951, entering Trona High School as a sophomore. She quickly became an integral part of campus life, graduating with the Class of 1954. During her school years, she was a dedicated member of the G.A.A. and the Girls’ League, and she helped capture the history of her peers through her work on the Slate and the Telescope.

Barbara was the beloved wife of the late Russell Rector (Class of 1949), who preceded her in death in 2018. She was a devoted mother to her three sons: Ricky (Class of 1973), Robert (Class of 1977), and John (Class of 1978). She now joins her husband and her sons, Ricky and Robert, in eternal rest.

She is also preceded in death by her sisters, Rayana Hobby (Class of 1958) and Sheila Wheeler (Class of 1960). Barbara’s legacy lives on through her son John, her extended family, and the many lives she touched in the Searles Valley.

Jeanette Kay Thomas, Classs of 1986

Jeanette Kay Thomas

Aug 9,1968- Feb 12,2026

Born in Ridgecrest, CA to Carolyn Lowe and James Thomas Sr., Jeanette lived a life defined by passion and an indomitable spirit. She was a woman who loved deeply, and when faced with life’s challenges, fought long and hard with a courage that inspired many. Jeanette Found peace and happiness in the simple beauties of life. She loved the great outdoors, a quiet games of cards or family gatherings, but her truest treasures were her daughter and grandchildren. As the best Memaw anyone could ask for, She spent her happiest days making memories with her grandbabies!

Jeanette is survived by her mother, Carolyn lowe, daughter, Maegan Darling, her beloved grandchildren, Natalia and Joseph, brothers,Woody Lowe, Stoney Lowe, and Sis-in-law, Kary Thomas. She also leaves behind her nieces, Kristina (Justin) Benzo, Brittany (Brett) Baker, and Katelynn Lowe; nephews Steve Kuschka and Tayler Lowe as well as a wide circle of great nieces, great nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

She is preceded in death by her sister, Starla Thomas, and brother, James Thomas Jr.

Services will be held at Holland & Lyons Chapel, on March 21st @2:00pm

https://www.hollandlyons.com/obituaries/jeanette-thomas?ttm_pid=211006822&ttm_affiliate=legacypro&ttm_affiliatetype=standard&ttm_campaign=legacy

Donald F “Don” Dill — Class of 1952

Donald Frederick Dill

1933 – 2026

Donald F. Dill, a  standout athlete of the Trona High School Class of 1952, passed away in February 2026. News of his passing was shared by his wife, Roberta, through the Searles Valley Historical Society newsletter.

A Life of Leadership and Athletics

Don’s journey in Trona began around 1948, when he moved from Michigan with his parents, and sister. His parents were originally from Canada. He quickly became a fixture of Trona High School life, where his natural leadership and athletic prowess were on full display.

A versatile and gifted athlete, Don was a four-year letterman in both Football and Baseball, while also competing on the basketball and track teams. His peers recognized his character and vision early on, electing him Class President for both his junior and senior years. Don also helped preserve the memories of his classmates by serving as the Sports Editor for the 1952 yearbook.

Family and Legacy

Don was preceded in death by his brother, Lloyd, and his nephew, Ron (Class of 1961). He is survived by:

  • His beloved wife, Roberta.

  • His sister, Marjorie Brooks (Class of 1953).

Don will be remembered by the Trona community as a man who embodied the spirit of his graduating class—active, involved, and always ready to lead. His legacy remains a part of the long history of Trona High School and preserved in the hearts of those who knew him.

Linda (Pounds) Spears — Class of 1978

Linda Lea Spears (maiden name Pounds) passed away on February 17, 2026, in Lake Isabella, California, at the age of 65. She was born on May 23, 1960, in San Bernardino, California, to Horace Pounds and Carol Sorensen.

Linda grew up in Trona, California, in a lively household alongside her five siblings. She graduated as a proud member of the Trona High School Class of 1978, embracing her identity as a Trona Tornado. That same year, at just 18 years old, she became a mother — a role that would define her life and bring her immeasurable joy. Linda’s greatest passion was her family, and she dedicated herself wholeheartedly to raising and loving her children and grandchildren.

Linda lived a bold and colorful life. She was unapologetically herself — wild, loud, opinionated, and fiercely independent. Known for her unforgettable phrases like “WOOOOWWW, REALLLY,” “WHOO CARREESSS,” and her latest favorite expression “F**k Em,” Linda had a way of leaving a lasting impression on everyone she met. She never followed the crowd; instead, she stood out wherever she went. Her stubbornness and ornery nature were matched only by the size of her heart. Taking care of others wasn’t just something Linda did — it was who she was. Those fortunate enough to be on the receiving end of her love felt it deeply.

Linda was preceded in death by her husbands, Jerry Hinzo and Rick Spears; her father, Horace Pounds; her mother, Carrol Sorensen; her sisters, Janet Reed and Martha Kennedy; and her brother, Charles Pounds.

She is survived by her children: sons Joe Pounds (Louis), Justin Hinzo (Janette), Jake Spears (Allison), and Jaxson Hinzo; daughters Jillian Hinzo, Jasmine Hinzo, Jade Hinzo, and Serenity Hinzo. Linda also leaves behind a legacy of love through her grandchildren: Jonathan Napolis, Shawny Napolis, Patience Pounds, Samuel Husk, Maddox Pounds, Jeremiah Husk, Justin Hinzo Jr., Nathan Hinzo, Adrian Hinzo, Jerry Hinzo, Bailey Rodden, Dashinay Branson, Brody Spears, Brayden Spears, and Bryce Spears; as well as her great-grandchildren: Hudson Skiles, Haiden Skiles, Angela Husk, and Danny Skipworth. Additionally, she is survived by her sisters Nancy Pounds and Sharon Vincent-Flores.

Linda’s life was filled with laughter and memories that will be cherished forever by those who knew her. Whether it was receiving one of her infamous “California Cow Kisses” or learning how to pull hair under her tutelage, Linda left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered. Her unique spirit will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.

Linda will be cremated. A Celebration of Life will be held in her honor on Saturday, February 28 at 2:00 PM at 14324 Shady Tree Court in Bakersfield, California. Friends and family are invited to come together to share stories and memories while celebrating the vibrant life she lived. Flowers may also be sent to the same address.

Linda Lea Spears will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the love she gave so freely and the unforgettable presence she brought into every room. May her memory bring comfort to all whose lives she touched.

https://www.ridgecrestca.com/obituaries/linda-lea-spears/article_d389f575-901b-42d9-bed8-f9e53df97cc0.html

Ginger

Virginia “Ginger” Dukes Baker — Class of 1968

Graveside Services for Virginia “Ginger” Dukes Baker, 75, of Whitney, Texas will be held Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Cemetery 1422 CR 724, Nacogdoches, Texas.Visitation will be held Friday, February 20, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Hernandez Rosenberg Funeral Home 800 4th St. in Rosenberg, Texas. A prayer service will be conducted at 6:00 p.m.

Ms. Baker was born September 28, 1950, in Lubbock, Texas and she passed away on February 15, 2026, in Whitney,

Texas. She is preceded in death by her parents Billy M. and Delores Rose Dukes.

She is survived by her sons Scott Baker, Tim Baker and wife Laura, her brothers William Michael Dukes and wife Sharon, John Dukes and wife Holly and their families, her grandchildren Timothy Baker, Zee Baker, Lily Baker, Ben Baker, as well as other loving family members and friends.

https://www.hernandezfuneralhome.com/obituary/virginia-ginger-baker

Valerie Jean Brooks — Class of 1977

Valerie Jean Brooks, born on June 5, 1959, in China Lake, California, passed away peacefully on December 28, 2025, in Riverside, California. Valerie dedicated her professional life as a sub-contractor for Searles Valley Minerals, contributing her skills and expertise over many years.

A long-time resident of Trona, California, Valerie was a devoted and loving mother to her two daughters, Jessica M. Sizemore and April Miller (Sizemore). Throughout her life, she cherished the moments spent with her family, and her love for them was evident to all who knew her.

In addition to her daughters, Valerie leaves behind fond memories among her friends who will remember her kindness and warmth. She is preceded in death by her parents, Donald Milton Brooks and Catherine Andersen (Goodman), who shaped her into the remarkable woman she became.

Valerie Jean Brooks will be deeply missed by those whose lives she touched, and her spirit will live on in the wonderful memories shared by her family and friends. Her legacy of love and strength will continue to inspire those who knew her.

https://www.hollandlyons.com/obituaries/valerie-brooks?ttm_pid=210623895&ttm_affiliate=legacypro&ttm_affiliatetype=standard&ttm_campaign=legacy

John Means — Class of 1960

JW Means III, age 83, of Reno, Nevada, died Friday, January 23,2026, at Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno. He was born November 7, 1942, in Red Mountain, California to the late JW and Violet (Williams) Means.

JW is survived by his wife of 62 years, Doreen M. (Neustatter) Means, two daughters: Michelle (Andrew) Stevens of Peoria, Arizona; Dorielle (Brian) Beck of Snohomish County, Washington; three grandchildren: Madison Stevens, Bailey Beckand Mackenzie Beck; and two siblings: Pam McBride and Maureen Ross. He also had a sister Connie Hedland who preceded him in death.

JW graduated from Trona High School in 1960. He also was very active as a professional bowler, golfer and trainer of dogs. He was a lifelong supporter of USC football and Los Angeles Lakers basketball. JW was a devotee of classic cars and enjoyed entering his 1964 El Camino in the annual proceedings of Hot August Nights in Reno.

Final arrangements are being handled by the Neptune Society in Reno, Nevada. A celebration of his life will be held by the family at a date to be determined in the future. In lieu of flowers or other acknowledgements, the family respectfully requests that a donation be offered in his memory to the Wounded Warrior Project or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, charities that were dear to JW and that he supported during his life.