Mary Jane Mendez (1928-2014)

Mary Jane Mendez passed away peacefully in her sleep on Tuesday April 8, 2014 in Oxnard, California. She was born May 10, 1928 in La Verne, California. She is preceded in death by her husband Delfino Mendez and her daughter Silvia who died as an infant.
Mary Jane spent the last two years of her life living with her grandson Michael and his wife Crystal in Oxnard California, but spent most of her years living in Fillmore. Her true love was spending time with her children and grandchildren as well as her great grandchildren. She enjoyed big gatherings and will always be remembered for her cooking, especially her salsa, tamales, and tortillas. She was always ready to give to people in need. She was incredibly funny, and as her family knows well, stubborn. She will always be remembered and loved dearly.
She is survived by her two sons, Alex and his wife Theresa, and Ronnie, his wife Gloria, both of Fillmore; her grandchildren Michael, wife Crystal Mendez, Joshua, wife Kellie Mendez, Jessica Mendez, Daniel Mendez, Jenna Mendez, and Anthony Mendez; her great-grandchildren Danielle, Rachel, Isabelle, and Izaak Mendez.
The viewing will be held on Thursday April 24th from 4pm to 8 pm with the Rosary occurring at 6pm at Skillin-Carroll Mortuary 600 N. Central Ave. Fillmore Ca 93015. Graveside services will be held the following day at 11 am on Friday April 25, 2014 at Bardsdale Cemetery 1698 S. Sespe Street Fillmore Ca 93015.
Funeral arrangement entrusted to the care of Skillin-Carroll Mortuary.

Ruby Jean Prince (1938-2014)

Ruby went to be with her Lord and Savior on April 1st, 2014 after a long battle with lung disease. Ruby was born in Bakersfield , CA to Ben and Ruby Kretzinger and was a graduate of East Bakersfield High School . After marriage and starting a family she moved to Ventura County where she remained until her death. She is survived by her son James David Prince, her daughters Cindy Denise Prince and Deborah Ann Samples, Grandchildren James Paul Prince, Tina Marie Prince and Travis James Prince and two great grandchildren. Ruby was caring and loving, she loved the Lord and she loved sharing the Gospel with everyone. We loved her and she will be greatly missed. Graveside services will be at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Bakersfield on Thursday April 17th at 10 am, visitation prior 8-9 am. Celebration of Life service will be at Heritage Valley Bible Church 461 Central Avenue Fillmore, CA on Friday April 18th at 10 am.

Frank William Dunst (1917-2014)

Frank William Dunst
7/20/1917 - 2/13/2014
Frank William Dunst was born in Erie, Pennsylvania on July 20, 1917. Frank's family relocated to Phoenix, Arizona, and that is where he met the love of his life Elaine. Frank and Elaine were married October 23, 1940. They were blessed with two children, Larry and Karen. Frank was a WWII Hero. He was a 1st Lieutenant in the 351st Squadron of the 8th Army Corps, a precursor to the Air Force; he was a B-17 Deputy Lead Bombardier from the Bloody 100th. He flew 32 missions mostly with the Herman Streich crew on the Fever Beaver. After the war Frank and Elaine moved their family to California, where Frank began his Pharmacy career. In 1948 Frank and Elaine bought Clough's Pharmacy, in Fillmore, California. It was a family owned and operated business until 1994. Frank was the President of the Ventura Pharmaceutical Association 1960-1961. He was a long time member of the Lion's Club. He earned a Life Long Membership award in 1999 for his many years of service as a Lion. He was also a member of the Fillmore Chamber of Commerce, and the Fillmore Club. Frank and Elaine loved to dance. They were members of the Valley Star Dancers, square dance club. Frank and Elaine also enjoyed traveling the world. Later in life Maui, Hawaii held a very special place in Frank's heart. He loved nothing better than to have a glass of champagne and look out at the ocean and say ALOHA! Frank was a devout Catholic. He rarely missed a Saturday evening Mass at Saint Francis of Assisi Church, in Fillmore. Frank's greatest joy was being surrounded by his family. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought him so much happiness.
Frank is preceded in death by his brother Robert Dunst, sister Rosemary Howard, and grand-daughter Nancy Dunst.
Frank is survived by his wife of 74 years Elaine Dunst, his children Frank Lawrence (Judy) Dunst and Karen Dunst- Hawkins, his grandchildren Kari (Gordon) Hawkins-Wilson, Kristen Dunst, Scott (Kelly) Dunst, and Ashley (William) Foster, his great-grandchildren Dylan and Emma Dunst and Jeremiah and Malakai Foster. Frank is also survived by his brother Urban Dunst. It was Frank's request not to have a funeral service. Please donate to your favorite charity in his name.

Patricia “ Sally “ Ebell (1938-2014)

Patricia “ Sally “ Ebell passed away on Tuesday, March 25, 2014. She was born on May 17, 1938 in Rancho Sespe and was a resident of Ventura County for 75 years. Patricia was a Medical Receptionist for 27 years.
Patricia is preceded in death by her parents, John and Alice Castorena and sister Carmen Barrios.
Patricia is survived by her Husband of 50 years Donald Ebell, their daughter Maria Vasseur and her husband Chris Vasseur of Valencia and son Mark Ebell and his wife Ines Ebell of Fillmore Brother John Castorena Jr. of Oxnard sisters Sylvia Ramirez of Santa Paula, Laura Escobar of Fillmore. Niece Marisa Marinez of Fillmore and 6 grandchildren.
Funeral Mass at St. Francis of Assisi Monday, April 7, 2014 at 10:30am.Rosary will be held at 10:00am before Funeral Mass. Follow by the Burial at Bardsdale Cemetery 1698 S. Sespe St. Fillmore, CA 93015
Funeral arrangement entrusted to the care of Skillin-Carroll Mortuary 600 N. Central Ave. Fillmore, CA 93015 (805) 524-0744

Letitia Leonard "Tisha" Harz (1908-2014)

Of Santa Barbara died February 25, 2014, "young at heart," one month shy of her 106th birthday. Tisha was born March 23, 1908, in Oxnard, California. She was the daughter of James Leonard and Sarah Ellen McGrath, both of pioneer Ventura County families.
Tisha, grew up on an early California ranch. She went to school in a horse and buggy. She rode horse back along the Santa Clara and Ventura rivers and on the beach. She was famous for shooting three rabbits with one bullet. She remembered driving to Los Angeles to her orthodontist appoint- ments on a dirt road over the Conejo grade and waiting for the tides in order to travel the Rincon to Santa Barbara events at the Potter Hotel. She enjoyed camping in the Sespe and cooking her meals in the hot springs. She had vivid memories of the St. Francis Dam disaster and the Santa Barbara earthquake of 1925.
She was an adventurer. She was the first in her family to fly, at a Ventura County fair on her 12th birthday. Later, she would go for a glider ride in Santa Ynez at the age of 90. In the 1930's, she travelled by herself to South America, on Thomas Cook's first guided tour. While on an excursion of the the Chilean Lakes to Argentina, she and guide, Herbert J. Harz, became close. He proposed to her on Sugar Loaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro.
Tisha was known by one of her cousins as "the fun one!" She loved climbing trees, skinny dipping, and teaching herself to drive a Model T. Her children remember her as always looking on the bright side of life and never complaining. She cherished Huell Houser's Califonia Gold TV program, Irish coffees, and her many friends and relatives. She had a strong faith in God and the afterlife and died with a radiant smile on her face.
She is survived by her children, Hermine (Gary) Gallup, Greta Howorth, and William (Joan) Harz, 6 grand children and 2 step grand children, and 10 great grand children.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Michael Bordofsky and his staff, the staff at Brandell Hall, Samarkand, and the Hospice nurses from SB VNA.
A Memorial Mass will be at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, at 11 am Wednesday, March 19, 2014. Memorial donations may be made to Visiting Nurses and Hospice Care, and the Samarkand Benevolent Care Fund in Tisha's memory.
Arrangements Entrusted to Welch-Ryce-Haider Funeral Chapels.

Fidel G. Viveros (1944-2014)

Fidel Viveros was born in Michoacán, Mexico on July 23rd, 1944 and went to be with the Lord on March 10th, 2014 at 69 years of age. He lived in Piru, CA and was a resident of Ventura County for 45 years. He loved landscaping and taking care of his chickens and roosters. Fidel is survived by his wife, Manuela Viveros, his children, Leticia, Marcial, Gabriel, Fidel Jr., Rosaura, and Daisy. He also leaves with us 18 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. Rosary will be held on Monday, March 17, 2014 at 7:30pm at San Salvador Church in Piru. Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, March 18, 2014 at 9:30am also at San Salvador Church.

Raquel Adame Casas (1938-2014)

Raquel Adame Casas was born on July 17, 1938 in Puruándiro, Michoacán in Mexico to Jose Adame and Maria Calderon, both parents deceased. As a child her and her brothers were left orphaned. At 9 years old her mother passed away from an illness. Years passed and her father moved them to Ensenada, Baja California and tragically her father died in a car accident when she was 13 yrs old. Raquel and her brothers were left alone to struggle and survive in a city they did not know anyone. Raquel cared for her brothers as months went by, she came across a letter from an uncle she never met and wrote to him explaining what happened. Raquel was fortunate that her father’s brother helped them financially and immigrated the family to the United States. By the time she was 18 yrs old, her uncle had the family settle in Rancho Sespe, outside of Fillmore. There Raquel spent her time learning to crochet, listening to music, dance, talk to friends and falling in love with the neighbor across the road. Ismael was her first and only love, as Ismael finished high school and went to the Army; Raquel waited for him to return and marry in 1964. Soon they started a family and had 3 children. Later on in life being married for 31 years, she gave all her time to her husband that had cancer and passed away in 1995. Raquel was a wonderful caring person full of love, she was a devoted wife, mother and sister. She leaves behind her brothers Salomon (deseased) and Mario Adame. She is survived by her children Sergio, Ruben and Monica Casas along with their spouses, as well as her grandchildren Serina, Eric, Andy Casas, Luis and Jackie Rosales.
Services are as follows: Viewing, Thursday February 20 at from 5 to 8pm w/ Rosary @ 7pm at Skillin-Carroll Mortuary, 600 N. Central Ave., Fillmore. Mass, Friday February 21th at 9:30 am at St. Francis of Assisi Church with interment immediately following at Bardsdale Cemetery. Reception following for Raquel to be held at St. Francis of Assisi Church reception hall.

William Edward Rife (1926-2014)

Born Jan 29, 1926 the son of Irvin and Garnet Rife. Now both deceased Also deceased my sister Vera Thompson. Also, my wonderful wife Maxine Rife. We had 61 wonderful years together. Also deceased my mother-in-law Nancy Schmidt.
Bill was raised on a farm in Blencoe and Onawa, Iowa Bill always liked sports, He played basketball, an baseball in high school, and worked on the farm milking cows, and other chores.
I met my wonderful wife in 1945 and we married on May 20th 1946. Bill always said that Maxine was the best thing that ever happened to him.
After a few year in the army, Sargent Rife and Maxine started College at the University of Omaha. Bill and Max, that’s what Bill called her. Got their BA degrees together, and both were teachers in Omaha, Nebraska. They then started working on Master’s Degrees. After 3 years teaching in Omaha, They moved to Simi Valley, CA. where they both taught for 20 years. In the mean time they had bought a small orange ranch at Fillmore, California. They both worked the ranch, and grew oranges for Sunkist, That lasted for more than 20 years. When that got to be too much for them they sold the ranch, and moved into Rancho Ventura, in Ventura.
Bill and Maxine enjoyed life, did lot of traveling, both in the U.S. as well many overseas countries.
Bill and Maxine have many surviving, relatives, sister, Bonnie Krauth, and brother-in-law Wilbur Krauth at Lompoc, California, and my nephews, and my nephew Jimmy Krauth at Nipomo, California. Cousins Betty Gee at Mondanin, Iowa. Jonie and Don Neese at Missouri Valley, Iowa, Brother-in-law Don Schmidt and Ann Schmidt at Duluth, Georgia. Niece Elaine and Greham Lefton, at Duluth, Georgia. And Taylor and Parker. David and Debby Schmidt at Sarasota, Florida. And Tonya, Brian, Alexa and Alana. And Ann Miehe and Gary, and Son Jeff, Shannon, Colon and Andrew. Cousin John Spencer and Linda. Norma Bauer and Connie. Bob Thompson. Ohio. Cousin, Ann Miehe and Gary at Poolville, Maryland in Summer and at Mesa, Arizona in the Winter Months. And Jeff and Shannon Miehe at Corona Del Mar California. With Sons, Colon and Andrew. Bill had many good friends, Steve and Trudy Garner, Tom and Marie Powell these were really close friends, and a host of others.
Bill and Max built their own home in Simi Valley. Bill loved flying; he and Gale Fiscus owned a plane togethjer. We did lots of flying together. Bill also was a tennis buff, and loved to snow ski.
It was said that Bill never met a stranger, He will be Missed.
Visitation will be Sunday, February 23, 2014 from 4 to 8pm at Skillin-Carroll Mortuary, Graveside Service will be Monday February 24, 2014 at 1pm, at Bardsdale Cemetery. Arrangements under the care of Skillin-Carroll Mortuary 805-524-0744.

Betty Juanita Carreno (1937-2014)

Betty Juanita Carreno, our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, born May 10, 1937, passed away on February 10, 2014 following a very brief illness. Betty was born in Los Angeles, moved to Santa Paula in her early teens, met and married Fernando “Popeye” Gonzalez. They lived in Europe while he was in the service, settling in Fillmore upon return. Together they worked in the family business “La Mexican Market”. She then divorced and in 1977, she met and married Jaime Carreno, and they have been crazy in love with each other for nearly 37 years. Betty worked at the Olga bra factory in Fillmore for many years, Spectrum in Oxnard, then Kalivico in Moorpark, hesitantly; she retired, frequently mentioning her desire to continue working. She made many good friends everywhere she worked, and why not, Betty had an infectious smile and laughter, and no one can really remember her being mad at anyone.
Betty will be remembered as a beautiful classy lady, well organized with everything in its place and spotless. We can only say that her system utilized lots of plastic bags, and an extra room which was known as her “Montgomery Wards room”, those that know her will understand this.
Betty loved playing anything competitive with her family from “Washers” to “Loteria” then came her marathon Novelas routine two or three a night. We will miss her attention, her love, her wit, now she will entertain the angels and rejoice in the presence of our God with her friends and family. Betty was is our rock, she taught us how to be strong, stubborn and grounded. She will be deeply missed by many.
Betty is survived by her husband Jaime, sister Laura Hammon, brother Robert Martinez, and son, Fernando Gonzalez and fiancé Veronica Torres, Sons-in-law and daughters: Richard and Debbie Hinojosa, Kirk and Laura McDowell, Rick and Nancy Gonzalez. Her grandchildren who in her last days took tremendous care of her, all having a special job, tending to her every need and wishes: Ricky, Krystal, Brittany Gonzalez, Matthew McDowell, Richard and Kelly Esguerra, Kyle and Jazmine McDowell, Leah Hinojosa and Richard Hinojosa Jr., Anthony and Danny Gonzalez and 9 great grandchildren.
A rosary was held on Monday, February 17, 2014 at 7:45pm at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 1048 Ventura St. Fillmore, CA 93015. The Mass of Christian burial was celebrated on Tuesday, February 18, 2014 at 9:30am at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. Interment followed at Bardsdale Cemetery.
To sign the family’s on line guestbook, share stories, and post pictures please visit our website: www.garciamortuaryoxnard.com and click on Betty’s name located below "Obituaries".
Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Garcia Mortuary, 629 South A Street, Oxnard. For further information, please call (805) 486-9148.

Louise Knox Long
April 23, 1931 - January 24, 2014
Louise K. Long, 82, died January 24, 2014 in Dallas, Oregon. She passed away gracefully and peacefully at home, surrounded by her husband, children, and adult grandchildren. She was a shining example of strength, compassion, consideration, and humor up through her last day here on earth.
She was born Mildred Louise Knox on April 23, 1931 in Oskaloosa, Iowa to Ed and Mildred Knox of Eddyville, Iowa. She lived most of her childhood in Eddyville, Iowa and graduated from Eddyville High School in 1949. Louise graduated from Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri in 1951 with an Associate Degree in Radio and Television Writing and a minor in music. After college, she worked as a continuity writer at radio station KOWH in Omaha, Nebraska.
On August 11, 1951 she married her high school sweetheart, Homer D. “Luke” Long. They lived in several cities while Homer was in the U.S. Navy. In 1957 they moved to Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa while he went to college. Upon his graduation in 1961, they moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota where Homer began his career with Univac. In 1966 they moved to Santa Maria, California. In 1972 they moved to Fillmore, California and then back to Santa Maria in 1986. In 1991 Louise and Homer moved to Dallas, Oregon where she lived for the rest of her life.
Louise was a loving wife, devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was a loyal dear friend to many, and consummate homemaker. Louise enjoyed playing the piano and organ, singing, oil painting, sewing, doing needlework, and helping others.
She was a highly competent secretary who became a Paralegal and worked for three different law firms in California and Oregon before her retirement in November of 2002. Louise was a devout Christian and at the time of her death a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Dallas, Oregon.
She was a 64 year member of the P.E.O. Sisterhood, joining in 1949 in her hometown chapter in Eddyville, Iowa. Louise was the charter holder of a new chapter in Santa Maria, California. She had been a member of seven chapters in Iowa, Minnesota, California, and Oregon and was a chapter president three times.
Louise is survived by her husband - Homer Long of Dallas, Oregon; two sons - Joseph D. “J” Long of Dallas, Oregon and Edgar Knox Long of Fillmore, California; one daughter - Louise Annette “Lou Ann” Long-Eastman of Eugene, Oregon; five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She also had one deceased infant brother and two deceased grandchildren.
In keeping with her wishes, no services will be held. Burial will be in Highland Cemetery in Eddyville, Iowa. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to Doernbecher Children's Hospital Foundation, 1121 SW Salmon St., Suite 100, Portland, Oregon 97205 or to First Presbyterian Church, 879 SW Levens St., Dallas, Oregon 97338.

Rosa Maria Romero Villela (1949-2014)

It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our mother Rosa Maria Romero Villela born April 8, 1949 who passed in her sleep on January 26, 2014.
Rosa was born in Tuxpan, Nayarit Mexico to Felipe Romero and Dolores Villela.
At a young age Rosa moved to Mazatlan Sinaloa where she married Jose Martin Herrera and gave birth to her two oldest sons, subsequently becoming a widow in 1973. She moved her family to the United States in December 1981 where she has remained a lifelong resident of Fillmore, CA.
Rosa was well known and well loved in the community and had a dedicated group of family and friends who will miss her deeply.
Rosa was a beautiful woman, who cherished all of her friends and family and lived life with a smile on her face.
She enjoyed spending time, with family and friends, dancing and playing bingo.
Left to cherish her memory is her partner Roberto Silva, brother Beto Romero, sister Eva Ortiz, her children Jose Martin Herrera Jr., Miguel Angel (Yazmin) Herrera, Roberto Carlos Silva, Alejandro Silva,
her grandchildren Jose Martin Herrera, III, Marco Antonio Herrera, Marisa Herrera, Jose Omar Herrera, Jonathan Angel Herrera, Isabella Silva, Robert Isaac Silva, Nico Silva
and great grandchildren Rayleen Herrera, Aubrey Sofia Herrera and countless other family and friends.
The family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support in many heart-felt forms from too many people to name individually.
A visitation will be held from 4:00-9:00pm, Thursday, February 6, 2014 at Faith Community Church, 355 "D" Street, Fillmore. A rosary will be recited at 9:30am followed by the celebration of the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am, Friday, February 7, 2014 at Saint Francis of Assisi Church in Fillmore. Committal & Interment to follow at Bardsdale Cemetery.
For map and directions to ceremony locations and to sign the family's online guestbook, share stories, and post pictures please visit our website: www.santapaulafuneralhome.com and click on Rosa Maria's name located below "Recent Obituaries".
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the family owned and operated Robert Rey Garcia Jr. Funeral Services, Santa Paula 805.229.7054

David John Roegner (1950-2014)

David (Dave) Roegner was a 25 year resident of Fillmore, until he moved to Pahrump, NV to be closer to his sister. Dave lived with his parents, Vern and Irene Roegner, at El Dorado Park, where he helped them until their respective deaths. While in Fillmore, Dave was often involved in town and community politics, and liked to help out at the Fillmore Senior Center, teaching residents how to use their computers. Through his life, Dave spent time driving trucks on short and long hauls, as a meat cutter for Albertsons, and finally as a computer consultant. He loved to travel, especially exploring local areas on his motorcycle or in his car. Dave was born on April 3, 1950 in Morris, IL and passed away on January 19, 2014 at home in Pahrump. Dave was preceded in death by his son, Lee, who passed in March, 2011 at 38 years old. He is survived by his sister, Gail Stacy of Las Vegas, NV; his brother, Bill Roegner of Crescent Hill, IL; nieces Dawn Kuykendall of Santa Clarita, CA, Kristen Hufstettler of Tucson, AZ and Kathy Roegner of Berlin, Germany; and nephews John Roegner of Tucson, AZ and Mike Reymann of Renton, WA, and his beloved kitties Tabby, Shadow and Peanut. We will really miss you, dearest brother and uncle, but now you are at peace with the Lord.

Carolina R Avila (1944-2014)

Carolina R Avila, 69, went to be with the Lord, peacefully, on Friday, January 24, 2014. She was surrounded by her family. Carolina was born on February 6, 1944, in Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico, and has been a resident of Piru for more than 60 years. She married the love of her life, Raymond Espinoza Avila, on November 19, 1966 and began her family which grew to include their 5 children. Carolina worked for the Piru Citrus Association, and also for the Fillmore Unified School District, from which she retired in 2010. She was a devoted Catholic and Member of the Sacred Heart. She enjoyed spending time with her daughter, her grandchildren, traveling, and going to Disneyland. She was preceded in death by her parents, Levi Ramirez and Juana Garcia, and her sister, Elisa Rangel. She is survived by her husband, her children: Raymond Jr., Jaime, David of Cedar City, UT, Yolanda, and Andrew of Roseville, CA, her 13 grandchildren, her brothers Pablo, Luis, Nephi, and Ruben Ramirez, and her sisters Rosa Riebeling and Bartola Mendez. Her family would like to give great thanks to all their friends and family, who helped and supported them at this time.

Jeff Newell Lowe (1960-2014)

Jeff Newell Lowe, a beloved son, father and grandfather, passed away with his children by his side, on January 8th, 2014, at the age of 53. He lived the majority of his life in Fillmore and was loved by many people. Jeff loved the outdoors; hunting, camping and fishing were among his cherished hobbies. He was a proud and dedicated member of The Operating Engineers for 36 years and had a passion for driving heavy equipment for Lowe Construction Company.
He is survived by his children; Sarah Ann Lowe and Jeffrey Newell Lowe Jr.; daughter in law, Stephanie Ann Lowe, and Grandbabies: Aubree Lynn Lowe and Logan Floyd Lowe. He also leaves behind two loving parents: Bud Lowe and Marlene Lowe.
There will be a private family burial and a Celebration of Life in Jeff’s honor that will be open to family and friends alike on Saturday, January 18th at 1pm at the Historical Museum in Fillmore. He asked that everyone remember him with a smile on his face. We thank you for your growing support.

Marion Ballard (1917-2013)

Marion Ballard, 96, longtime member of the Fillmore community, passed away at Sallie’s Care Facility in Camarillo on December 12, 2013. Marion was born in Clinton, Iowa on August 25, 1917 to Alma and Gustave Eggers. She graduated from Wilson High School in Long Beach, CA. She continued her education and graduated in 1939 from UCLA. After graduation she accepted her first teaching job in Fillmore, CA. While in Fillmore she met Sherre Ballard. They were married during World War II in Florida while he was on a leave. Their marriage lasted 39 years before Sherre passed away on October 21, 1981. Marion taught for Fillmore School District for over 30 years until her retirement. After retirement she enjoyed playing bridge, walking, traveling, and she was an active member in Ebell and Garden clubs. She was involved in Fillmore Bible Church on various committees and serving as a Sunday School teacher for many years. Marion is survived by her sons James Ballard (Carol), John Ballard (Pam) and four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; and her sisters Alice Johnson and Helen Newsham. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, January 8, 2014 at 2pm., Faith Community Church, Fillmore, CA, with Pastor Mark Rathe officiating. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations to Arrow Child & Family Ministries of Ca (arrow.org) or to a charity of your choice. Funeral arrangements under the direction of Griffin Family Funeral Chapels, 1075 E. Daily Dr., Camarillo. (805)482-1166.

Carmen Ponce Ortega (1957-2013)

Carmen (Pecas) Ponce Ortega passed away peacefully, surrounded by her siblings and children on November 26, 2013 following a 2 year battle with Pancreatic Cancer. Heaven has gained an amazing, strong beautiful angel so full of life who will be missed dearly. Carmen was born January 10, 1957 in Tijuana, Baja California to Ramon and Sara Ponce. Her family moved to Fillmore in 1968, following her graduation from Fillmore High School in 1976, she worked for The Olga Co.
Carmen was preceded in death by her parents, Ramon and Sara Ponce. Carmen is survived by her husband of 35 years, Silvestre Ortega, her children Silvestre L. Ortega IV, Adrian (Monica) Ortega, Marco Ortega, Kristian B.Ortega, Veronica (Vicente) Barajas; her grandchildren, Alize, Solae and Saben Barajas, Amber, Reina, Aaron, Elizabeth, Crystal, Liliana, Adrian and Daniel Ortega; 6 brothers, Adolfo (Irene) Ponce, Ramon (Edith) Ponce, Francisco Ponce, Jose Luis (Gloria) Ponce, Raul (Cornia) Ponce and her twin Gonzalo Ponce; 3 sisters, Rosa (Adolfo) Huerta, Martha Ponce and Susana Ponce; numerous nieces and nephews and tons of friends who loved her.
Carmen was so grateful for all the thoughts and prayers during her illness, you were all a part of her journey. She loved life and despite it all, she always kept on smiling. Carmen will forever be branded in our hearts. A memorial mass will be held on Friday January 10, 2014 at Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 1048 West Ventura Street in Fillmore at 10:00am, a burial will immediately follow at Bardsdale Cemetery, 1698 South Sespe St. Fillmore, Ca.

Guadalupe Galvez (1923-2013)

Guadalupe Galvez, a resident of Fillmore, CA, passed away in Santa Paula after a brief illness Friday, December 13, 2013.
Lupe Galvez was born on February 17, 1923 in Colotlan, Jalisco and was a resident of Ventura County for 42 years. Though a housewife for most of her life, she was a devout Catholic and enjoyed organizing and producing traditional religious ceremonies for the church.
She is preceded in death by the love of her life, her husband, Luis Galvez as well as 3 brothers, 3 sisters, 1 grandson and a daughter in law.
She is survived by 8 children and their spouses, as well as 27 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren with 2 more on the way.

Christine Elisabeth Litschinger Cardona (1940-2013)

Christine Cardona passed away peacefully on the morning of December 7th, 2013, with both of her daughters by her side. Christine was born in Mannheim, Germany on November 21, 1940 to Karl Friedrich Litschinger and Maria Litschinger and lived in Germany until the age of 19.
She met and married an American soldier (Tino Cardona) and they both later moved to the United States with their first born daughter. After the birth of her second daughter, Christine was a stay at home mom for awhile until she went to work at one of the packing houses in Fillmore. When Christine was not working and taking care of her family, she did what she loved best and that was swimming (she was a swimmer from a very early age while living in Germany). She spent most of her summer months at the Fillmore High School swimming pool, where she met a group of other women swimmers. They all immediately became friends and would swim together for years to come. Christine started working at JC Penney’s in Ventura in the early 70’s and worked there for 32 years. She met and made many friends while working at JC Penney’s and absolutely loved her job.
Christine was a beautiful woman, a loving mother and grandmother (who is known to her grandchildren as “Oma”), who loved her family and cherished every day of her life. She will be greatly missed by all who loved her and her memory will live on in their hearts forever. Christine is preceded in death by her mother, Maria Litschinger of Ladenburg, Germany and sister, Klara Becker also of Ladenburg, Germany.
She is survived by daughters, Joann Cardona of Santa Paula and Marina Cardona Campos of Ventura, grandchildren, Christine Cardona Threadgill (Tyler) of Simi Valley, Brandon Campos, Andrew Campos and Lauren Campos of Ventura, and great-grandchildren, Amelia Threadgill and Alexander Threadgill of Simi Valley. She is also survived by Tino Cardona whom she was married to for 17 years. Christine leaves behind sisters-in-law, Jenny Herrera, Penny Cardona and Amelia Mulberry, and also Lupe Dominguez, Elsie Cardona and Monica Castro who preceded her in death. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who she loved dearly. Christine’s family would like to thank Marie Ramos who lovingly cared for her for 3 years and also the staff at Fillmore Convalescent Center for their excellent care.
A graveside service will be held at 11a.m., Thursday December 12, 2013 at Bardsdale Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers you may send a donation to the Alzheimer's Association.
For map and directions to ceremony locations and to sign the family's online guestbook, share stories, and post pictures please visit our website: www.santapaulafuneralhome.com and click on Christine's name located below "Recent Obituaries".
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the family owned and operated Robert Rey Garcia Jr. Funeral Services, Santa Paula 805.229.7054

Carmen Chavez Torres (1941-2013)

Carmen Chavez Torres lost her battle with a lengthy illness December 5, 2013. Her passing has left a void in the hearts of all who knew her. She was a fifty one year resident of Fillmore CA.
She was born on November 21,1941 in Villa Montemorelos, Durango Mexico where she met and married her husband of 51 years Thomas F. Torres. Carmen worked at The Olga Co. and retired in 1996 after 35 years of service. She enjoyed going to Chumash Casino with her circle of friends and also enjoyed traveling to Mexico and Hawaii with her family. As a true blue Dodger fan she could recite and talk stats with the best of them.
We will all miss her zest for life, her kind generous heart. Carmen was preceded in death by her parents Felix and Guadalupe Chavez, sisters Juanita Chavez, Maria Luisa Moreno and brothers Federico Chavez, Manuel Chavez.
Carmen is survived by her husband Thomas F. Torres and loving children Norma Torres-Vasquez of Fillmore CA, Cindy(Danny) Alcozar of Lancaster CA, Tom (Marianne)Torres of Visalia CA, Patty(Hugo) Virto of Fillmore CA. Carmen will be greatly missed by siblings Jose Chavez, Consuelo Chavez, Maria Elena Gonzalez, Aurelio Chavez, Isabel Chavez and Lourdes Alarcon. Carmen was a proud grandmother of nine grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephew's and cousins.
Family and friends are welcome to gather from 4-8p.m., Thursday, December 12, 2013 for a time of tribute and reflection at Faith Community Church, 355 "D" Street, Fillmore. A rosary will be recited at 10:00a.m., Friday, December 13, 2013 and followed immediately at 10:30a.m. with a Mass of Christian Burial to be Celebrated at Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 1048 West Ventura Street, Fillmore with Father Art Gruszka Officiating. Committal and Interment will follow at Bardsdale Cemetery.
For map and directions to ceremony locations and to sign the family's online guestbook, share stories, and post pictures please visit our website: www.santapaulafuneralhome.com and click on Carmen's name located below "Recent Obituaries".
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Family Owned and Operated Robert Rey Garcia Jr. Funeral Services, Santa Paula 805.229.7054

Julie Ruth Sandoval (1962-2013)

Julie Ruth Sandoval, 51, passed away on December 3, 2013, following a three-year battle with kidney cancer. Born March 14, 1962 to Jim and Charlene McGuire, she was a lifelong resident of Fillmore. Following her graduation from Fillmore High School she worked as a teacher aide at Sunshine Pre-School and Sespe School before becoming Library Clerk at Sespe School, a position she held for twenty years. Her last position was in the School District Food Services Office.
Julie’s life revolved around her two children, Jonathan (31) and Jenna (28), never missing any school or church activity they were involved in. The three of them were avid sports fans, baseball being their favorite, and they visited 21 stadiums together. During Jonathan’s Little League years Julie was on the board for several years, two years as the President. A lifelong member of the Presbyterian and Fillmore Bible Church she served in the nursery, and was a leader in the Awana after-school program for many years.
Her Faith Community Church family has played a vital role in her life in recent years and her faith and trust in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ have sustained her especially during her illness.
She is survived by her parents, daughter Jenna, son Jonathan and daughter-in-law Nikki, and brother Jeff of Texas. She is also survived by Joseph Sandoval, to whom she was married for twenty years.
A memorial service will be held Wednesday, December 11, at 4 p.m. at Faith Community Church, 461 Central Avenue, Fillmore, 93015. In lieu of flowers her family suggests that memorial donations be made to Faith Community Church or the Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association, 1996 Eastman Avenue, Ventura, CA 93003, or a charity of your choice.