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Earl G. Lashmett, Jr., died December 22, 2024 at his home in American Canyon at the age of 93. Earl was born in Vallejo to Earl and Viola Lashmett, Sr. in 1931. He attended Vallejo schools and graduated from Vallejo Senior High. After high school Earl joined the United States Marine Corps where he received his first training in the highly technical field of demolition. This led to a life-long career as an explosive technician. At a time when the Interstate freeway system was under construction and large housing projects were being built throughout the Bay Area, Earl’s skills in drilling, blasting and explosives were much in demand. He earned a reputation for safety and reliability. His career spanned more than 40 years, during which time he adapted to many changes in the industry. Well respected in the field, he continued to work as a consultant long after his retirement. In 1960, Earl married Shirley Conklin, a Vallejo school teacher. It wasn’t long after their marriage that Earl and Shirley moved into their home in American Canyon, where they would live for their entire lives. Earl’s race cars were his pride and joy. In the 1990s, he owned both a Nisan 300ZX and a 1970 Chevy Chevelle SS. He raced the Chevelle at the Bonniville Salt Flats and it was featured on the cover of Hot Rod magazine. A passionate deer hunter, Earl was always on the lookout for the perfect hunting spot and he found it at the Sonoma Raceway. Located on 1,600 acres of open fields, keeping wild animals off the raceway was critical for driver safety. Earl was able to combine his love of hunting with a position as animal control specialist, a valuable service he performed for decades. Growing up, Earl often visited his aunt and uncle in Nebraska. He did not forget the cute girl who visited their next-door neighbors. After Shirley’s death, Earl reconnected with Joan Phillips; they were married in 1999. Earl will be remembered for his independent spirt; he did not hesitate to speak his mind or stand up for his beliefs. An excellent judge of character, he was a loyal friend and a devoted husband. In addition to his wife Joan, Earl is survived by his younger sister, Linda DeOcampo; his stepchildren Susie Simpson (Bill) of Tennessee and Steve Phillips (Jana) of Missouri; and his nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held in the future. Memorial contributions in Earl’s name can be made to Holy Family Catholic Church, 200 Antonina Avenue, American Canyon, CA 94503.

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Earl Lashmett

March 30, 1931 - December 22, 2024