City Council takes steps toward
Lengthy discussion at Tuesday meeting touches on noise, parking, economic impact, and enforcement
By MIKE CHALDU michael@atascaderonews.com
ATASCADERO —
In a
lengthy discussion during its Tuesday, Feb. 24, meeting — one from which two councilmembers recused themselves, but then spoke as citizens in public comment — the Atascadero City Council laid the groundwork for a potential city ordinance regulation short-term rentals in the city.
According to the report for Item H1, a Management Report, the City Council action plan adopted in 2024 included a program to evaluate shortterm rentals (STRs) and the potential for new regulations.
There are currently no Municipal Code standards pertaining to STRs, although the city requires a business license and registration to pay Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) in order to operate a short-term rental from a residential property. Tuesday’s discussion was to give direction to staff to develop an ordinance regulating the STRs, which refers mostly to private residences being rented out to vacationers for short stays.
City Councilmembers Seth Peek and Heather Newsom both recused themselves from the discussion as councilmembers, citing conflicts of interest as current or previous owners of STRs, but both spoke during public comment for the item.
In introducing the discussion, Community Development Director Phil Dunsmore put concerns about STRs and an
Project to modernize 1987 facility includes new dispatch center and room for additional officers
By CAMILLE DEVAUL camille@atascaderonews.com
ATASCADERO — U.S. Rep. Jimmy Panetta joined city officials last week to announce an $850,000 federal grant to support improvements to the Atascadero Police Department, including a new 1,100-square-foot dispatch center. The funding will contribute to the city’s larger $4.22 million project to modernize the police facility, originally purchased and remodeled in 1987.
“I am proud to announce an $850,000 grant from the federal government to be built right here for critical improvements to the Atascadero Police Station,” Panetta said. “Currently, the Atascadero Police Department is housed in a build-
ing ... that is not necessarily the state of the art for public safety.”
Additional funds for the project are coming from Measure D-20, approved in November 2020. Voters approved Measure D-20 to generate funding for key City Council and community priorities related to public safety. The measure is projected to bring in just under $12 million during its first three fiscal years, from April 1, 2021, through June 30, 2023. Of that total, approximately $9.5 million is allocated to public safety, $1 million to infrastructure improvements, and $1.5 million to other priorities such as staff retention and recruitment. Each funded item aligns with the city’s 2021–2023 Strategic Priorities for the use of Measure D-20 revenues.
You can find more information on the measure’s projects at atascadero.org/ measure-d-20
The grant will be put towards the city’s $4.2 million improvement project, specif-
semifinal behind Shea Buckley’s 34 points; faces No. 2 Clovis on Friday at Selland Arena in Fresno
By ELIZABETH HICKCOX Special to
ATASCADERO — Top-seeded
Atascadero High School punched its ticket to the CIF Central Section Division II boys basketball championship with a commanding 69-52 semifinal victory over Fresno’s Hoover High School on Thursday night, riding a wave of momentum from a raucous, soldout home crowd.
The Greyhounds (20-9) seized control early and never looked back, using defensive pressure and balanced scoring to methodically wear down the Patriots (17-9).
Senior guard Shea Buckley delivered a signature performance, pouring in a game-high 34 points,
including four 3-pointers, while adding seven rebounds and three assists.
Buckley’s offensive outburst further cemented his place in school history. The senior recently surpassed Atascadero’s single-season scoring record set in 2014 and has been the offensive engine all winter, averaging more than 22 points per game. Against Hoover, he set the tone early, attacking the rim in transition and knocking down perimeter shots that ignited the home crowd.
Junior forward Damon Mitchell provided a steady interior presence with 14 points and eight rebounds, controlling the glass and converting second-chance opportunities. Timothy Kyle Foster added
12 points off the bench, delivering timely buckets during a decisive 12-2 third-quarter run that pushed the Greyhounds’ lead to 18 and effectively put the game out of reach.
Atascadero shot 48 percent from the field and forced 15 turnovers, holding Hoover to 38 percent shooting. The Greyhounds’ defensive intensity, particularly on the perimeter, disrupted the Patriots’ rhythm and limited open looks.
“The energy in the gym was electric,” head coach Augie Johnston said in a statement after the game.
“Our guys fed off the crowd and executed our game plan perfectly. This win is a testament to their hard work all season.”
ically to build a new 1,100-square-foot dispatch center for the department.
“So that our law enforcement officrs can get the information that they need in a timely manner, to do the job that they are sworn to do,” Panetta added.
Mayor Charles Bourbeau praised Panetta’s support, highlighting both the police facility improvements and prior federal funding for downtown enhancements.
“Jimmy Panetta has delivered, and we really appreciate that here in Atascadero,” Bourbeau added. “He didn’t ask, are you a red town, or a blue town, or a purple town, or anything like that. Our folks came forward with a request, and they said, what do you need?”
Police Chief Dan Suttles said the expansion will increase the department’s capacity by relocating dispatch operations to the new structure, freeing up additional space inside the existing building.
“I just want to tell everybody how excited I am, how excited our police department is, and how excited our community is, because we’re going to be able to expand this building,” Chief Suttles explained.
The department currently consists of 34 sworn officers and 15 professional staff. With the expansion, Suttles hopes to increase by eight to 10 officers and support staff, over a period of time.
“It’s going to help us keep up with the rate of increase in population,” he explained. “This is helping us find a solution for the inevitable growth that we’re going to have within the city.”
Construction is expected to begin in late March or early April and last approximately 12 months. Local funding, including revenue from Measure D-20, will cover much of the project cost, with the federal grant helping close funding gaps and support essential equipment and security upgrades.
ordinance in three categories: concentration and impacts to housing stock, noise and parking, and accountability to owners and tenants.
Dunsmore also pointed out a city ordinance would be required for the city to use SB 346, which allows a city to obtain information such as addresses and parcel numbers from STR platforms.
During council questions, Mayor Pro Tem Mark Dariz said his biggest concerns was multi-family structures, like an apartment building, being used solely for STRs.
“A bunch of STRs clustered around permanent residents could be a problem,” he said. “It could also hamper our efforts to establish workforce housing.”
Mayor Charles Bourbeau agreed somewhat, but thought the bigger concern was houses being used only as STRs.
“That leaves houses that are not
Johnston, a former Greyhound standout who graduated in 2004 before playing professionally overseas, has steadily rebuilt the program in his fifth year at the helm. Assistants Brad Zimmer and Sid Rodriguez have played key roles in developing a roster that blends senior leadership with emerging underclassmen.
Thursday’s semifinal triumph marked another chapter in a season defined by resilience. The Greyhounds weathered a challenging midseason stretch that included a three-game losing streak — falling to St. Joseph, San Luis Obispo, and Mission College Prep — before regaining their footing with a 76-64 win over Arroyo Grande on Feb. 10. That victory snapped the skid and helped propel Atascadero into the playoffs as Division II’s No. 1 seed.
In the quarterfinal round on Feb. 17, the Greyhounds overwhelmed Sanger 82-41, placing five players in double figures and showcasing their depth. Buckley
available to residents, not available for a move-up home for a young family,” Bourbeau said. “The other concern is that a home only for rental is essentially a hotel in a residential area — the neighbors didn’t sign up for that.”
Meanwhile, Councilmember Susan Funk mentioned another factor with short-term residents: fire safety.
“We’re a high-fire risk area, and when we let people come in as renters, they’re less familiar with the conditions,” she said, mentioning they might try and create fire pits where they’re not allowed. “Vacationers are less aware of consequences and that raises risk. We need to be attentive to that.”
Funk mentioned to Atascadero Fire
Chief Casey Bryson that the city could put in regulations to limit open fires and allow gas or propane devices for barbecues; Bryson replied that he’d be OK with that.
During public comment, Newsom and Peek spoke as city residents who have operated STRs.
“I know what it takes to operate
led with 22 points in that contest, while Mitchell and Foster combined for 28. The convincing win set up Thursday’s semifnal clash, where Atascadero once again demonstrated its ability to peak at the right time.
Now the Greyhounds turn their focus to No. 2 seed Clovis High School (23-9), whom they will face at 8 p.m. Friday at Selland Arena in Fresno. The neutral-site championship setting will test Atascadero’s poise away from its home floor, but the team enters riding a three-game playoff winning streak. Clovis advanced to the final with a 67-60 semifinal win over Bakersfield, powered by sophomore standout Anthony Smith, who scored 29 points and grabbed eight rebounds. Senior forward Jackson Scarborough added nine points and nine rebounds, helping the Cougars control the boards. Clovis averages 35 rebounds per game and prides itself on balanced scoring and physical defense — traits that could pose challenges for the Greyhounds.
TEMPLETON
5860 El Camino Real, Ste. G Atascadero, CA 93422 P.O. Box 6068 Atascadero, CA 93423
[an STR] and co-exist as neighbors,” Newsom said. “We should have the right to do what we want with property, and I’d rather deal with STRs than having to evict long-term rentals. The fees should be reasonable, also; it’s too costly for resident STR owners.”
Peek said he and his wife rented out a room in their home to help pay the mortgage, although he does not do that anymore. He said operating STRs are fine as long as it’s done within policy, but he said addressing multi-family structures isn’t necessary right now after staff research revealed that there are only two properties in town that fit the category.
“Creating policy for multi-family with no issues is policy for policy’s sake,” he said.
There were 10 people in total who spoke at public comment. Many were fine with STRs as long as there was an owner on site and rules were followed, although a few were opposed.
Atascadero resident Tori Keen said there is already a shortage of housing
for long-term residents, and that STRs aren’t as much of a boon to the economy as some think.
“Somebody at a Planning Commission workshop said STR brings meaningful business, but most of the operators highlight Paso Robles wine country and the area’s beaches, but not Atascadero,” she said. “They stay in Atascadero and then spend their money elsewhere. The STR owners make the money, but the city bears the brunt.”
Atascadero resident Tom Florian was one who brought up the pitfalls of STR tenants affecting the neighborhood.
“I’m an unhappy neighbor of an STR, and I know many with same concerns,” he said. “This place has a pool 50 feet from my bedroom, and young adults go out partying, and go into pool late at night, keeping me up. Complaints made to people who rent it out, but it stops there and nothing happens.”
Going back to council, Funk said that there would definitely be a need
The teams met earlier this season on Dec. 12, when Atascadero secured a convinc-
ing 70-50 home victory. Buckley scored 28 points in that matchup, and the Greyhounds held Clovis
3/3 | 3:30 | Nipomo (JV/V)
| 3:30 pm | SLO (FR)
for an ordinance to regulate STRs, and also suggesting potential exemptions for those “managing life situations,” alluding to Peek’s example of helping pay a mortgage or moving in a loved one because they need more constant medical care.
Bourbeau agreed with Funk, although he asked if a required inspection for every STR should be required. “If there’s a problem, we can deal with it then,” he said.
However, Dariz and Funk both said inspections should be required for someone who wanted an STR permit.
“If we wait until it becomes a problem, then we’re too late,” Funk said. “We have to be the ones to set the policy.”
After directions were established to look at mandatory inspections, fire safety outreach, and a ban on street parking, Dunsmore said staff had plenty to go on for a draft ordinance, and one would be presented at a future meeting.
The City Council will next meet on Tuesday, March 10, at 6 p.m.
to under 40 percent shooting.
For Atascadero, a victory Friday would mark the program’s first Central Section title since 1979 under legendary coach Arthur Wilmore. The Greyhounds last reached a section final in 2018 but came up short. With a veteran core anchored by Buckley and strong contributions throughout the rotation, the opportunity to make history is within reach.
As anticipation builds across the community, students and supporters are expected to travel to Fresno to cheer on the Greyhounds in what promises to be a high-energy atmosphere. Selland Arena will host multiple Central Section championship games over the weekend, placing Atascadero on one of the section’s biggest stages.
While the boys prepare for their title shot, the Atascadero girls basketball team saw its own impressive postseason run conclude Thursday night in the Division IV semifinals. The No. 2-seeded Greyhounds fell 43-26 to No. 3 Tulare Union in a hardfought contest that showcased the
Week of February 26 - March 4
ATASCADERO
| 5 / 6 pm | Nipomo (JV/V)
3/4 | 3 / 4 pm | St Joe (V) Swim 2/27-28 | 3 pm | Ernstrom Invite
2/26 | 3:30 pm | Pioneer Valley (JV/V) 2/27 | 3:30 / 4:30 pm | Templeton (JV/V)
Track and Field 3/4 | 3 pm | Santa Ynez (JV/V) Girls Wrestling
2/26-28 | 8 am | CIF Boys Basketball 2/27 | TBA | CIF
Boys Golf 3/3 | 3 pm | Templeton (V)
Baseball
2/27 | 3:30 / 6:30 pm | Monache (JV/V)
3/3 |
team’s grit and determination. Though the loss ended their championship aspirations, the girls’ season featured memorable moments, including a dramatic quarterfinal comeback against Garces Memorial on Feb. 18. In that game, Atascadero outscored the Rams 25-3 in the fourth quarter to secure a 44-37 victory, fueled by standout performances from Lainey Arnold, McKenna Nichols, and Mia Purchase. Head coach Steve Gee and his staff guided the team through a competitive campaign marked by steady improvement and resilience. Senior Audrey Cohen’s leadership helped shape the group’s identity, leaving a strong foundation for the future.
As the boys look to cap their playoff surge with a championship, the Atascadero community has rallied behind both programs, celebrating a winter season defined by determination and pride. For the Greyhounds, Friday night represents more than a game — it is a chance to etch a new chapter into school history.
PASO ROBLES
Dennis Michael Giorgetti passed away on February 10, 2026, in Paso Robles, California, at the age of 85.
John Willhoit passed away on February 4, 2026, at John Muir Hospital in Concord, California. He was a resident of Diablo Valley for 40 years.
John and his twin Jim were
Ruth Ellen Scovell, beloved mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother, and great-greatgrandmother, passed peacefully into the Lord’s presence on February 9, 2026, just weeks shy of her 96th birthday.
Born on March 20, 1930, to John and Mary Dyck, Ruth was raised in Adelaide, California, where her family were early homesteaders. She was the second of six children, Winifred, Ruth, Betty Ann, Wesley, Edith, and Raymond (Butch) —and grew up rooted in faith, family, and the honest work of the land.
Life on the farm shaped
RECORD
The family of Donald Theodore Monmonier sadly announces the passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather.
Ted was raised on the Central Coast, primarily in Ventura and Atascadero.
After serving two years with the US military in Germany, he and his childhood friend and sweetheart, Penelope, were married and later lived in Alaska and Visalia.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Quinto and Mary Jane Giorgetti of Covelo, California, and his former wife, Sherry Giorgetti. Dennis is survived by his sons, Michael Giorgetti of Arizona and Shawn Giorgetti of California; his sisters, Marguerite VanDame of Oregon, and Melissa Giorgetti-Anderson of California; his nieces, Cynthia Miller, Michele McQueen, Sarah VanDame, Andrea Giorgetti-Marson, and Alexandra Giorgetti-Anderson; and several great-nieces and nephews.
Muriel Jean Grove of Atascadero, California, passed away peacefully on the morning of February 7, 2026, at the age of 87. Jean was born on November 20, 1938, in Overton, Nebraska, to Noel and Ada Babbitt. In 1956, Jean married Richard Lynn Grove, the love of her life and her high school sweetheart. Soon after, their first child, Tim,
born on August 12, 1949, to parents Alfred and Frances Willhoit of Templeton, CA.
John carried Templeton in his heart for his entire life.
His early years at Templeton Schools (K-12) were filled with sports, friendships, and the kind of small-town memories that stay with a person forever. No matter where he lived or worked, Templeton was always “home,” and he loved returning to visit old friends and reconnect with the people who shaped his early years.
John’s path took him to Cal Poly SLO, where he earned a degree in finance–a milestone of which he was proud. He went on to build a career
Ruth deeply. She milked cows before sunrise, worked long hours outdoors, and learned early that labor done in love was a gift. She often laughed about trying to outdo her big sister Winifred, treasured being the apple of her father’s eye, and carried with her the steady strength of a family that treated work as love in action.
Ruth attended the one-room Adelaide Schoolhouse, a place she cherished throughout her life. As an adult, she returned year after year to support its fundraisers and gatherings, honoring the small schoolhouse that helped shape her beginnings.
In March 1949, Ruth married Ralph Scovell and stepped from her mother’s home into building one of her own. Together they welcomed three children, Linda, Chuck, and Gene, and built their Maricopa Road home “brick by brick.” Ralph insisted the front of the house would not be square, but like Noah’s Ark, perched on a hill they fondly called Mt. Ararat. Their Christian faith was the cornerstone
They settled in Atascadero, where they built a Forms printing business and enjoyed the outdoor pleasures of living on the beautiful coast of California. Later, they spent several months a year in La Paz, Baja, where Ted enjoyed long days on the Sea of Cortez with family and friends.
Ted’s enthusiasm for life and turning the mundane into adventure is a gift he leaves in our hearts and memories.
Dennis proudly served in the United States Air Force, enlisting in 1959. After basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, he was stationed at George Air Force Base with the 31st Tactical Fighter Wing. In 1960, he met Brigadier General Chuck Yeager, an experience he remembered fondly. As a fighter aircraft mechanic during the Cold War, Dennis held a Secret Security clearance and worked on frontline aircraft. In October 1962, his unit was transferred to Homestead Air Force Base, where they stood on the front lines
arrived, followed by David and daughter, Susan.
After moving a few times for her husband’s military career, they settled in Atascadero. Jean was an ER admitting clerk at local hospitals. Jean had a very outgoing personality and was funny, warm-hearted and loving. She had many lifelong friends and will be missed by all.
Jean was a beloved wife,
as an appraiser, a profession that suited his steady nature, his attention to detail, and his genuine interest in people’s stories and the places they called home. During his Commercial and Residential appraising career, John worked in Sacramento with Wells Fargo Bank, Carson City Nevada, with Mahoney Appraisal Services, and for Jess Smyers Appraising in Walnut Creek. He finished his appraising career in Martinez when he retired from the Contra Costa County Assessor’s office. Before that chapter began, John spent meaningful years working for Jack Allen at the lumber yard in Temple-
of their marriage and family, and the life they built together.
Ruth lived her faith boldly. She hosted Good News Clubs after school, teaching generations of children, including many of her grandchildren, about God’s Word, honesty, service, love, and integrity. Many in her family credit her with leading them to the Lord and planting in them faith that guided their lives.
She worked for many years as a kindergarten aid, a role she cherished, and tutored countless children along the way. Teaching came naturally to her—firm and structured, wise and unwavering, yet always deeply caring. Her grandchildren remember the quick flash of her sternness when needed, but as a great-grandmother, she softened, revealing a gentleness that made the youngest generation feel especially treasured.
An extraordinary gardener, Ruth was known far and wide as “The Flower Lady.” Influenced by her father’s horticultural expertise, she maintained her own walnut orchard and
His faith in God, his generosity, and aspiration for the common good were his daily compass and felt by those who were with him. Many a person, young and old have been on the receiving end of his endless hospitality, fishing trips, stories, and lively talks around a sunset or campfire. Ted is preceded in death by his father and mother, Wayne and Mary Monmonier. He is survived by his wife Penelope; children Monique (Chris -
during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Dennis recalled watching President John F. Kennedy’s October 22 address announcing the discovery of Soviet missile sites in Cuba. He later served at Aviano Air Base and Kadena Air Base, supporting U.S. and NATO operations during a tense period of global conflict.
After his military service, Dennis worked as a truck driver for Fleming Foods and later with Teamsters Local 70 in Oakland alongside his longtime friend Joe Silva. He enjoyed attending
mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Grove. Jean is survived by her son, Tim Grove (Alane), daughter Susan Hite, and son David Grove; as well as five granddaughters, Jessica Ralls (James), Torry Ballew (Jake), Chelsea Hite (Tony), Hillary Ariente (Joseph) and Sierra Hite; five great-grandchil -
ton, where he became known for his reliability, his easygoing humor, and the constant presence of his dog Edsel, who rode along with him on lumber deliveries. Those who knew John can still picture the two of them—truck windows down, Edsel’s head out the side, John waving to familiar faces.
What defined John most wasn’t his résumé, but his heart. He had a quiet, instinctive compassion for people who were struggling. He often helped the homeless in simple, human ways–offering food, a warm coat, a blanket, or a sleeping bag when he could. He never did it for
could prune and graft trees with unmatched skill. She passed her love of trees to her children and grandchildren, inspiring multiple generations of arborists, including her son Chuck; grandsons Charlie, Henry, and Whit; and great-grandson Morgan.
She was among the earliest vendors at the San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market, when it was little more than a few tables behind a small grocery store. For decades—well into her 90s—she traveled over the grade each week to sell her flowers. People sought her out intentionally, knowing exactly where to find the Flower Lady whose bouquets brightened kitchens, front porches, and weary hearts alike.
Generous, steadfast, faithful, and endlessly hardworking, Ruth poured her life into loving others, tending her land, and nurturing her family. She lived with purpose and conviction and raised her family to walk with God, just as she did. She is survived by her children, Linda (S covell) Curtis and Chuck Scovell,
tian) Ben, Grandsons, Payton (Lindsey) Tycen (Alise), Boden, and Julian; Great Grandson Seb; Sister Mitzie McKoy (Pat dec.), and many loving nieces, nephews and in-laws.
We will miss him dearly. Dad, our memories with you will continue to loom larger than life–much like a fish story, a thread in a wondrous tale.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
union events and often spoke of meeting public figures such as Dianne Feinstein and Nancy Pelosi.
Dennis was also an avid cyclist, riding daily in the Danville and San Ramon areas where he lived. A serious bicycle accident resulted in a traumatic brain injury that forced his early retirement. He lived a good and happy life, even with the effects of his brain injury for 25 years.
Dennis will be remembered for his pride in service, his resilience, and entertaining stories.
dren, Connor Ralls, Aubrey Ballew, Lexi Ballew, Adalynn Ariente and Blair Ariente; her sisters Maydelle Pilioglas and Sharon Babbitt, nieces Judy McGee (Danny), Kim Adlesh (Darren) and nephew Greg Pilioglas (Karen).
There will be a private Celebration of Life for Jean with her immediate family at a later date. Jean’s family would like to thank everyone for their kind words and prayers.
recognition. He did it because he couldn’t walk past someone who was cold or hungry without trying to help. John lived with loyalty, humor, and a generosity that asked for nothing in return. Those who knew him—whether from school days, the lumber yard, his appraisal work, or the many friendships he gathered along the way—carry pieces of his kindness with them.
John will be remembered not just for the life he lived, but for the warmth he shared and the way he made people feel seen, welcomed, and cared for.
He is survived by his twin brother Jim (Georgette), of Fresno, Sharon Ouimet of
and preceded in death by her beloved son, Gene Scovell. Ruth’s legacy continues through five generations: Grandchildren: Taylor Curtis, Heather Scovell, Henry Curtis, Charlie Scovell, Alina Scovell, Whit Curtis, Kristen Scovell, Adelaide Curtis, Lisa Scovell, Jennifer (Bowers) Isham, Jonathan Bowers and Jillian (Bowers) Martin. Great-grandchildren: Matthew Swenson, Morgan Scovell, Kaylabelle (Curtis) Kies, Trinity Shamlin, Madison Mueller, Jack Curtis, Acelynn Shamlin, Kamea Curtis, Wesley Curtis, Marlee Mueller, Kaden Betschart, Kasen Betschart, Whitney Curtis, Coy Curtis, Dawson Scovell, Stetson Curtis, Saylor Curtis, Olivia Curtis, Willow Scovell, Lucas Isham, Isabella Isham, Xander Isham, Emilie Martin, Jackson Martin, Emmalynn Bowers, Benjamin Bowers, and Landon Bowers. Great-great-grandchildren: Miles, Waynelee, Oakley, Stihl, Mayleigh and two on the way!!
Her life touched countless people, and her influence
Virginia “Ginger” Johanna Hopkins, 82, passed away February 14, 2026. Born December 23, 1943, in Los Angeles, California, to Joseph Alesi and Helen O’Shaunnessy. She was preceded in death by her parents and her older brother, Robert. Virginia married Michael D. Hopkins in 1966, and they shared 54 devoted years together until his passing in 2020. She was a loving mother to four children: Michele (deceased 2020), Terence (Lynn), Heather (Tom), and Brian (Lisa). She was very proud of her eight grandchildren, Daniel, Jacob, Finley, Madeline, Paige (Noah), Olivia, Kelli, and Alison. Ginger graduated from Sacred Heart High School in Los Angeles, California, and worked as a medical transcriptionist until her retirement. She raised her family in Covina, California, and moved to Paso Robles in 1990. She was a proud member of the Red Hat Society in Paso Robles. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Funeral Mass will be at St. Rose Catholic Church, Friday, March 13, 2026, at 11:00 am, followed by interment at the Paso Robles District Cemetery.
Highlands Ranch, CO, Mike Willhoit (Carolyn) of Lake Almanor and Cayucos, and Dick Willhoit of Paso Robles. Also, his constant companion and beloved cat, Max. He is also survived by his many nephews, nieces, and cousins. Visitation will be on Wednesday, February 25, at Ouimet Bros. Concord Funeral Chapel from 4:00 – 8:00 pm and on Friday, February 27, at Kuehl Nicolay Funeral Chapel, Paso Robles, from 2:00–6:00 pm. A remembrance will be held graveside on Monday, March 2, at Paso Robles District Cemetery at 11:00 am. Reception to follow at the shop, 3690 Buena Vista Dr., Paso Robles.
will continue to grow through the family tree she planted, nurtured, and loved so dearly. Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths.”
A memorial service honoring Ruth Ellen Scovell and celebrating her “Life WellLived” will be held on March 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the historic Adelaide Schoolhouse, located at 9001 Chimney Rock Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446. Following the memorial service, we will host a BBQ potluck featuring a classic wiener roast — Ruth’s favorite way to celebrate and gather with loved ones. Guests are invited to bring a side dish to share (along with a serving utensil). The family will provide hot dogs and drinks. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Ruth Ellen Scovell may be made to Child Evangelism Fellowship® at https://www.cefslo.org/donate or by mail to: P.O. Box 1784, Atascadero, CA 93423.
Friends of the Paso Robles Library
