As 2024 comes to a close, we take a moment to remember and honor the lives of those in the Tri-Community who passed away this year. Each of these individuals contributed to the fabric of our towns—Wrightwood, Phelan, and Pinon Hills—leaving behind memories, legacies, and loved ones who will cherish them forever.
In January, we said goodbye to Tyson Bell, 44, who passed away on January 3 in Wrightwood. James Dean Bemboom, 76, born in 1947, passed on January 12 in Wrightwood. Katie Anderson, 23, was lost on January 19 in Wrightwood. Robert Sage Brazelton, born on January 4, 1931, passed away on January 19. A sports enthusiast and Marine Corps baseball team player-manager, Robert was also a history teacher, baseball coach, and later a lawyer. Craig Anthony Speers, born on August 20, 1955, passed away on January 21 in Wrightwood. A craftsman and homebuilder, Craig worked at CR&R and enjoyed camping, boating, and the outdoors. We also lost Gulliana Puentes, 13, and Ahalia Puentes, 1, both of whom passed away on January 26 in Phelan.
February brought the loss of Lyle Farmer, who was born on May 31, 1931, and passed away on February 5 at the age of 92. A Korean War veteran, Lyle was an avid supporter of 4H and the San Bernardino County Fair Livestock division. He also served as a baseball umpire.
In March, we mourned the passing of Richard “Casper” Rooney, born on November 19, 1949, who passed on March 11 in Wrightwood. He was known for his kindness, generosity, and loyalty. Just days later, on March 19, we lost Crystal Rooney, born on November 11, 1993, a vibrant spirit devoted to family and friends. Luis Belmontes Ramos, Sr., born on October 5, 1930, passed away on March 22 at the age of 93. A Korean War veteran and active community member, he was involved in the Knights of Columbus and the Veterans of Foreign Wars and also coached youth baseball.
April saw the loss of Daniel Thomas Meredith, who was born on April 5, 1977, and passed away on his birthday. A determined businessman, Daniel owned Daniel Meredith Plumbing in Phelan and enjoyed outdoor activities and music. His wife, Jacquelynn Meredith, born on July 3, 1975, also passed away on April 5. She was the cornerstone of her family’s success and happiness, an animal lover, and a Disney enthusiast. Later in the year, Patricia Quinn West, born on April 9, 1941, passed away on June 23 in Wrightwood. Patricia owned Snowman Mountain Counseling, worked in behavioral health, and was an athlete, bringing home a bronze medal in the Senior Olympics.
September marked the passing of Waldemar Swoboda, born on May 13, 1941, who passed away on September 17 at the age of 83 in Wrightwood. A Vietnam War medic, Waldemar was known for his humor and infectious personality.
October brought the loss of Heinz H. Steinmann, born on October 22, 1931, who passed away on October 7 at the age of 93. A longtime Wrightwood resident, Heinz owned Holiday Hill ski area (now Mt. High) and started the children’s ski program at Wrightwood Elementary. Sandra Kay Lavish, who passed away on October 17 at the age of 83, was a key figure in the founding of the Wrightwood Veterans Memorial Park.
In November, we mourned the loss of Richard Branaman, born on April 4, 1938, who passed away on November 10. A former Wrightwood resident and private accountant, Richard was passionate about model trains, photography, and family. Chuck Franklin, born on February 11, 1949, passed away on November 18. A dedicated civil leader and Wrightwood Community Services Board Member, Chuck also served as Division Supervisor of the Community Emergency Response Team.
December saw the passing of Edward James Zimmer, born on July 23, 1931, who passed away on December 4 at the age of 93. A U.S. Navy pilot during the Korean War, Edward later worked in aerospace and civil engineering before retiring to Wrightwood.
Each of these individuals played a role in shaping the Tri-Community, leaving behind families, friends, and legacies that will be remembered. We extend our deepest condolences to those grieving the loss of a loved one and recognize the impact each of these community members had on our towns.
