07/24/2026
Ethan Michael Wofford passed quietly from this life on June 25, 2026.
Ethan was born in Harbor City, California, on March 24, 1979, to Michael and Debbie Wofford. At the age of eight, he moved with his parents to Susanville, where the family welcomed his long-awaited sibling, Erin, the following year.
He attended local schools and was known for his curious nature and quirky sense of humor. He graduated from Lassen High School with the Class of 1997.
Ethan enthusiastically embraced the many activities Lassen County had to offer. As an active Boy Scout, he rarely missed a campout, competition, summer camp, or community service project. Veterans Day activities held a special place in his heart, and he participated in every way he could – planting flags, marching in the parade as a band member, serving lunch, and helping with cleanup. He also played soccer and the saxophone and was active in FFA. As he grew older, he developed a passion for mountain biking, which he enjoyed sharing with his friends.
After graduation, Ethan set out to “find himself.” He lived primarily in Eugene and Portland, Oregon, where he held a variety of jobs, took classes, and played saxophone with alternative bands.
In February 2009, Ethan enlisted in the United States Navy. He proudly served as an Electronics Technician aboard the USS Barry. During his service, he fully developed his talent and passion for electronics, radar, and all things mechanical. He excelled in his field and received commendations combat action ribbon for his service. Ethan treasured the people he met and the countries he visited. In his posts and letters, he often expressed deep compassion for people living in less fortunate circumstances around the world.
After completing his military service, Ethan relocated to Austin, Texas, where he put his skills to work for international companies building, wiring, and programming large-scale manufacturing machinery. His work took him throughout the United States and to Canada, Mexico, and Italy.
In 2025, Ethan moved to Reno, Nevada, to live and work closer to his family. His love, humor, curious spirit, and quiet presence will be deeply missed.
Ethan is survived by his parents, Michael and Debbie Wofford; his sister, Erin Cordova; his brother-in-law, Daniel Cordova, whom Ethan considered the brother he had always wanted; his niece, Malea Cordova; his nephew, Daniel Cordova Jr.; his grandmothers, Viviane Goulet and Leticia Wofford; and many beloved cousins, uncles, and aunties. He is also survived by his daughter, Ally, who was placed for adoption but remained in his life and forever in his heart.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Romeo Goulet, and his nephew, Marcus Cordova.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Susanville, California. The Rosary will be prayed at 10:30 a.m. for those who wish to attend. Inurnment will follow the Mass in the veterans section of Diamond Crest Cemetery. A luncheon will be held after the graveside service at Monsignor Moran Hall.