Obituaries

Former Bridge Store Owner Passes at 98: Dorothy Katsumi Nishimoto

MADERA - Dorothy Katsumi Nishimoto, devoted mother and grandmother and dear friend, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2025, at the age of 98. She was surrounded by family during her final days at home.

Dorothy was born on May 6, 1927, to Taka and Tadao Yashima in Honolulu, Hawaii. She had a lifelong love for the arts. Her talents were recognized early in grade school, and she was selected to attend the Honolulu Academy of Arts. She graduated from Farrington High School and then the University of Hawaii. She continued her academic studies and received a Master's in Fine Arts from Colorado State University in Greeley.

Shawn Terrence Brewer (57)

Shawn Terrence Brewer (57) was born November 14, 1967, to the union of Gene and Barbara Anne Brewer in Madera, California. Shawn attended Sierra Vista Elementary School, Thomas Jefferson Jr. High School, and graduated from Madera High School in June 1985.

Wendy’s Restaurant employed him during high school and for several years afterward. Shawn relocated to Fresno, California, in 1989 and continued working for Wendy’s in Fresno. In 1991, he relocated to Dallas, Texas, where he secured employment at Whataburger Restaurant. He quickly worked his way up to become the manager of his store.

Former Madera County Sheriff Ed bates Passes at 99

From the desk of Madera County Sheriff Tyson Pogue:

It is with profound respect and a heavy heart that I share the passing of Retired Madera County Sheriff Edward Bryant Bates, who died peacefully at his home on May 1, 2025, at the age of 99. Sheriff Bates was not only a cornerstone of Madera County law enforcement but also a symbol of unwavering dedication, courage, and integrity.

Born on November 3, 1925, in Modesto, California, Ed Bates demonstrated a commitment to service from an early age. At just 16, he joined the Merchant Marines during World War II and later served in Naval Intelligence. His law enforcement career began in Stanislaus County, where he became a respected investigator and polygraph expert. In 1970, on his 45th birthday, Bates was elected Sheriff of Madera County, a position he held for three terms.

Madera Community Leader and Friend Passes: Monte Pistoresi 86

MADERA- Monte Pistoresi, 86, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on April 23, 2025. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of his family and friends and the many lives he touched throughout his extraordinary life.

Born on July 18, 1938, in Miramonte, California, Monte was the son of Pete and Irene Pistoresi. After graduating from Santa Clara University in 1960 with a degree in Business Administration, Monte answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Army and completing assignments at Fort Benning, Fort Holabird, and the Presidio.

Matthew Stevens Fry (52)

CLOVIS – Local musician Matthew “Matt” Fry died alone in the early morning hours of March 27^th at his Tarply Village home in Clovis, California. Matt was a big surprise to his parents, the late James and Francis Fry, on June 25, 1972. With his parents and his thirteen-year-old brother, James Jr., the Fry’s made a home in the Hoover District of Fresno.

Unlike his brother, who excelled in sports, Matt’s talents lay elsewhere. One day, he picked up his brother's guitar, and Matt found his real passion. There were very few instruments Matt could not play. He stood out in the churches he attended as a part of the worship teams, as well as on the local music stages throughout Fresno in far too many bands to list here.