Paso Robles Press • February 26, 2026

Board discusses sports participation and student privacy as state, federal laws remain in conflict

By CAMILLE DEVAUL camille@pasoroblespress.com

PASO ROBLES — During the Tuesday, Feb. 24 meeting, Paso Robles Joint Unified School District (PRJUSD) trustees discussed Title IX relating to transgender female student-athletes and the use of restrooms and locker room facilities based on gender identity.

Throughout the past few months, students and parents have come forward to the board to address their concerns surrounding Title IX and concerns over the district’s policy on transgender students using the girls’ locker rooms, restrooms, and participating in girls’ sports at Paso Robles High School (PRHS).

Title IX is a federal law that bans sex-based discrimination in schools. It means students cannot be treated unfairly in programs, sports, or activities because of their sex or gender.

Trustee Kenney Enney repeatedly requested the board discuss the issue as a formal item on the agenda, however his motion failed more than once. It wasn’t until the Tuesday, Jan. 13, meeting that trustees finally agreed to hold an information item on the subject in February.

You can find our full coverage on the Jan. 13 meeting at pasoroblespress.com

Superintendent Jennifer Loftus presented the information to trustees during the Feb. 24 meeting.

According to California law, students are allowed to participate in school sports teams that align with their gender identity, regardless of the gender listed on their records. Established through the California Education Code in 2013–2014, this law requires all public K–12 schools to let students join programs and athletics consistent with their identified gender — meaning a student who identifies as a girl can play on girls’ teams, and a student who identifies as a boy can play on boys’ teams.

Schools also cannot require students to use facilities based solely on the sex listed on their birth certificate. Basically, students can use the restroom and locker room that matches their gender identity and cannot be forced to use one that does not.

The California Interscholastic Federation (CIF), which oversees high school sports in

Bearcats advance three wrestlers to CIF State Championships

By CAMILLE DEVAUL camille@pasoroblespress.com

PASO ROBLES — The Paso Robles High School wrestling team delivered an impressive performance at the CIF Central Section Masters Tournament last weekend at Selland Arena in Fresno, advancing three athletes to the CIF State Wrestling Championships. The Masters Tournament followed the CIF Central Section Division I Championships the previous week, where 11 boys and two girls from Paso Robles qualified to compete among the

section’s elite. All 11 Bearcat boys who advanced out of Division I secured spots at Masters.

“An undefeated league season represents far more than a winning record — it reflects the culmination of disciplined training, strategic execution, and unified team commitment. For our program, this achievement carries profound significance,” Coach Nate Ybarra told Paso Robles Press. “This season’s undefeated league campaign and subsequent championship title represent a return to excellence for Paso Robles

Masters performance

wrestling. The annual championship match against Righetti High School is a cornerstone rivalry, and reclaiming the title this year demonstrated our competitive superiority and reinforced our program’s standing in the league.”

At the Division I Championships, the Bearcats placed seventh as a team. Individual results were as follows: 108 pounds – Vander Gibson, 6th place

• 115 pounds – Dominic Fonts, 9th place • 120 pounds – Anthony Maldonado,

10th place

132 pounds – Logan Camack, 7th place

• 138 pounds – Drake Mello, 7th place

• 144 pounds – Christopher Jewett, 9th place 157 pounds – Josh Willis, 7th place 165 pounds – Pedro Coronado, 4th place 175 pounds – Christopher Melgar, 8th place

• 190 pounds – Caleb Konoski, 7th

Speakers highlight record beef prices, screwworm threat, and innovation in rotational grazing

By CAMILLE DEVAUL camille@pasoroblespress.com

NORTH COUNTY —

The San Luis Obispo County Cattlemen’s Association gathered at the Paso Robles Event Center on Wednesday, Feb. 18, for its annual spring meeting, bringing together ranchers and

industry leaders to discuss both the challenges and successes shaping the local beef industry.

The evening featured a lineup of guest speakers addressing issues from emerging grazing technology to national policy concerns. Among them were Kevin Kester, past president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, and U.S. Rep. Jimmy Panetta, who provided insight into federal discussions affecting agriculture.

Bill Dale of the California Beef Council reported that while cattle trade in Califor-

nia remains active and ranchers are seeing record prices, overall cattle numbers have dropped sharply in recent years. Herd numbers peaked in 2021 at 3.9 million head but have since declined by approximately 800,000 head in 2025. Because $1 is collected per animal — split evenly between the state and national programs — the decline resulted in a $400,000 reduction for both the national program and the California Beef Council. Dale noted that current cattle trade numbers are the lowest recorded

since the council’s database was established in 2002.

He also highlighted significant contraction in the state’s packing industry, with the number of cattle processed in California dropping from 1.1 million head in 2009 to about 550,000 last year — a 50% reduction. Despite the shrinking supply chain, consumer demand remains strong. In 2024, the average American spent $400 annually on beef, a 30% increase over the previous year and 50% more than on any other animal protein.

Kester provided a national industry update, noting that cattle prices continue to reach record highs. Recently, the U.S. fed cattle price hit an all-time high of $2.47 per pound, while fresh retail beef prices averaged $9.55 per pound in December — also a record according to Kester. Despite higher prices, retail beef sales volume increased 4.3%, driven in part by historically high quality grades, with prime carcasses averaging nearly 12% and choice around 75%. He said herd rebuilding

place • 215 pounds – Alan Melgar, 4th place

Competing against the Central Section’s best at Masters, three Bearcats punched their tickets to state competition. Logan Camack (132 pounds) placed ninth, Caleb Konoski (190 pounds) finished eighth, and Alan Melgar (215 pounds) took 10th. As a team, Paso Robles placed 13th at Masters.

“These elite competitors exemplify

exceptional consistency and resilience,”

Ybarra shared. “They have demonstrated sustained excellence across competitive seasons, steadily advanced in state rankings, and overcome significant physical challenges while maintaining strong academic standing.”

The state championships will be held next week at Mechanics Bank Arena in Bakersfield. Qualifying for the tournament places each athlete among the top 40 wrestlers in their respective weight class statewide, in what is widely regarded as one of the most competitive wrestling states in the nation.

As a team, the Bearcats have been competitive all season, finishing seventh at Division I and 13th overall in the Central Section standings, while also compiling an undefeated league record.

“This year’s Bearcats team has consistently risen to the occasion,” Ybarra said. “We placed highly in every tournament, took seventh at Division I, and finished 13th in the Central Section. Qualifying three boys for state is a testament to their grit, and I couldn’t be prouder. The girls’ program is continuing to grow, and next year we’re aiming to send even more girls to state.”

on a national level.

On the girls side, Persauz Montoya placed fifth at Division I and Michelle Bautista finished eighth, earning both athletes spots at Masters. While neither advanced to state this season, coaches said the experience competing through California’s rigorous qualification process will serve them well as the program continues to build momentum.

“Under the leadership of head coach Field Gibson, our girls wrestling program has experienced significant expansion. We are working to build a fully competitive roster by establishing representation across all 14 weight classes. This year, we came

remarkably close to achieving that milestone,” said Ybarra. “A particularly promising development is the return of two Masters qualifiers next season. Based on their demonstrated performance and trajectory, we anticipate both athletes will advance to the state championship meet.” With three state qualifiers and representation across nearly every weight class, Paso Robles closes out the Central Section season as one of the area’s most competitive and wellrounded wrestling programs, with momentum building for both the boys and girls teams heading into next year.

remains slow, meaning tighter supplies are likely for at least the next two to three years, supporting continued strong markets barring a major disruption such as foreign animal disease.

A significant concern remains the New World screwworm, which could threaten U.S. cattle if it reaches the southern border. While USDA has finalized plans for a sterile fly production facility in Texas, full production capacity, estimated at 500 to 600 million sterile flies per week, is still about 18 months away. Until then, border policy and political considerations may limit

Mexican cattle imports. On trade, he downplayed concerns about Argentine beef imports, noting they account for less than 1% of U.S. consumption and operate under established agreements. He highlighted positive developments with Taiwan removing trade barriers, while emphasizing the industry’s ongoing losses in China, where U.S. beef exports have dropped from roughly $2 billion annually to near zero after many U.S. plants were delisted. Farm bill priorities, tax provisions, conservation funding, and expanded trade promotion efforts also remain key focuses at the national level.

Congressman Panetta praised Kester for his efforts in supporting the beef industry

“There’s no better representative that I’ve seen in my experience in Washington, D.C., than Kevin Kester,” Panetta shared. “He is from the White House to the Hall of Congress. He is everywhere promoting and pushing and literally living up to the standards that you all make sure he lives up to when it comes to producing beef.”

Some local ranchers shared three different GPS collar methods that are being used to rotationally graze cattle without traditional fencing. Through mobile applications, ranchers can establish and adjust virtual boundaries, moving cattle between areas to better manage natural resources and reduce wildfire risk. The technology has allowed

producers to graze previously inaccessible land, contributing to fuel reduction efforts.

A report from the organization’s treasurer provided some insight into their successful year. The organization reported a successful 2025, ending the year with a net profit of $10,537, driven largely by its annual Play Day fundraiser, which included support from 26 monetary sponsors and numerous in-kind contributors. Funds raised were distributed to several beneficiaries, including The Great AGventure, Cal Poly Young Cattlemen, the Sheriff’s Rodeo, Quiz Jam, the California Mid State Fair Cattlemen’s Choice Award, and others. For more information about the association, visit facebook.com/slocattlemen

the state, follows California law by allowing students to compete in athletics consistent with their gender identity. Loftus says that CIF has affirmed it will continue adhering to state law even amid federal disagreements. While the organization has made minor adjustments in certain situations, such as the 2025 track championships, to address fairness concerns, transgender athletes are still permitted to compete. In short, CIF does not ban transgender athletes and aligns its policies with California law.

By July 1, all California schools serving grades 1-12 with multiple boys’ and girls’ restrooms must provide at least one all-gender restroom accessible to any student.

This restroom must be clearly signed, unlocked, easy to locate, and stocked with menstrual products. Each school must also designate a staff contact responsible for ensuring compliance, and post a notice near at least one all-gender restroom explaining the rule and providing the contact information for the designated staff member.

“At the federal level, there is a disagreement, or there is a different understanding and different direction coming to California and to school districts across the nation with regard to implementation of Title IX,” Loftus said.

As of earlier this year, California is at the center of conflict with the federal government over how Title IX applies to transgender athletes. Specifically, California is engaged in a legal dispute with the U.S.

TEMPLETON

Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) over Title IX and transgender athletes.

As of early 2026, California is in a legal dispute with the U.S. Department of Education over Title IX and transgender athletes. In June 2025, OCR ruled that the California Department of Education and CIF violated Title IX by allowing transgender girls in girls’ sports, claiming this denies opportunities to biological females and requires biology-based rules. California rejected the ruling, leading the Department of Justice to file suit in July 2025. Despite ongoing federal investigations nationwide, California continues to follow state law, including AB 1266, which lets students participate in sports and use facilities consistent with their gender identity, while state

officials call the federal actions politically motivated and legally disputed.

“The issue is quite simply not settled,” Loftus said. “We want all students to feel welcomed and all students to feel safe. We’ve heard a lot from our students about the need for additional privacy in the locker rooms, specifically.”

Staff have looked into bringing a trailer onto campus for an additional private changing area, but Loftus shares that the option also brings additional challenges, like finding a convenient location for practical student use and safety.

Another option is creating additional private changing areas in the girls’ locker room, which Loftus says is a viable option.

Prior to public comment, Board President Joel Peterson asked everyone to be respectful, “We will not allow personal

attacks, disrespectful language, or comments directed at certain individuals at either side of this coin.”

Students and members of the public spoke either in support of transgender students in sports or in favor of privacy and protecting biological females in sports.

“My focus right now is simply on the safety and well-being of all the students,” Enney shared. “That’s all I’m concerned about right now.”

Trustee Jim Cogan said that while he is in support of additional private spaces for students, he would like the public to remove the word “safe” from their vocabulary in regards to trans students.

“I would like us to remove the word ‘safe’ from our vernacular because it presumes that students that are in a bathroom with a trans student are somehow unsafe, and that is not true,

Week of February 26 - March 4

ATASCADERO

Volleyball 2/27-28 | TBA | SLO Tourney 3/3 | 5 / 6 pm | Nipomo (JV/V)

| 3:30 pm | Alisal (JV/V)

| 3:30 pm | El Capitan (V) 2/28 | 12 pm | Nipomo (FR) 3/3 | 3:30 | Nipomo (JV/V) 3/4 | 3:30 pm | SLO (FR)

2/26 | 3:30 pm |

(JV/V)

| 3:30 / 4:30 pm | Templeton (JV/V) 3/3 | 3:30 pm | Lompoc (JV/V) Boys Tennis 2/26 | 3:30 pm | Nipomo (V)

3/4 | 3 / 4 pm | St Joe (V) Swim 2/27-28 | 3 pm | Ernstrom Invite

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

Paso Robles Press

Boys Golf

3/3 | 3 pm | Templeton (V)

Baseball 2/27 | 3:30 / 6:30 pm | Monache (JV/V)

and it’s not fair,” he said.

Enney provided a response to Cogan’s request.

“I’ll rebut since this is a rebuttal to your accusing me of lying about girls being safe, Jim,” said Enney. “My concern right now is the safety and the well-being of all the students, not whether you one-up me.” Cogan then took an opportunity to clarify.

“I see a lot of signs that talk about keeping girls safe and I don’t believe that girls are unsafe, I just want to make sure they have access to privacy,” Cogan said.

Staff will continue to work to build additional privacy stalls in the girls’ locker room and monitor the Supreme Court’s decision.

The next Paso Robles Joint Unified School District is scheduled for Tuesday, March 10, at 6 p.m.

PASO ROBLES

3/3 | 3:30 / 4:30 pm | Arroyo Grande (JV/V)

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