Michael “Alan” Ortega (1956-2018)

It is with a heavy heart that we announce that Michael “Alan” Ortega passed away December 2nd, 2018 at the age of 62.
Alan is survived by his wife, Irma, his children, Mike & Melissa, his daughter-in-law, Veronica, his grandchildren, Javier, Monique, Michael & Boss. He is also survived by his dad, Henry, his sisters Vivian (Don) Singer & Brenda Castillo, and his brother John Ortega.
His extended family, sister-in-law Rosalinda(David) Del Real, brother-in-law’s Gabe(Leti) Orozco, Sam(Noelia) Orozco and numerous nieces, nephews, godchildren, cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends.
Alan, as everyone knew him, was born August 7th, 1956 in Santa Paula, California. Alan graduated from Fillmore high school 1975.
After graduating high school, he joined the United States Marines. After completing his term, he was Honorably Discharged in 1978, where he soon after met the love of his life, Irma. They dated for 3 years before they were married in July 1981. A year later in June 1982 brought their first born son, Mike, into the world. Three years after in April 1985, their second born daughter, Melissa was born. In 1988, they moved their family to Lancaster, California.
He worked in the Aerospace industry for over 40 years.
He was an Oakland Raiders and Los Angeles Dodgers Fan.
Everyone who knew and loved Al, knew he loved to dance and his favorite musician was “James Brown”.
He enjoyed fishing and taking vacations. He also enjoyed working on his cars and renovating his home.
He was a family man. An extremely hard worker. He will be loved and missed dearly by so many.
He is no longer suffering and is now with all of our loved ones dancing in paradise.
The recitation of the rosary will be held on Saturday, December 15, 2018 at 9:00 a.m. at San Salvador Catholic Church, 4041 Center Street in Piru. Followed with a Memorial Mass at 9:30 a.m. Reception to follow.
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 Michael’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, CA 93060. 805.229.7054

Paul Michael Gritz (1946-2018)

Paul Michael Gritz, gone way too soon, passed away unexpectedly at home on November 23 in Lynden, WA.
One of six sons, Paul and his twin brother, John Gritz, were born at Miami Beach Naval Air Station, Florida. They grew up on a variety of Naval bases, including Florida, Ohio, Kauai, HI, and San Diego, and moved to Fillmore in 1958. Paul graduated as Senior Class President of Fillmore High School in 1963. He was a member of Boy Scout Troop 406 in Fillmore and attended Ventura College, Humboldt State College, Arcata, and Methodist College in Fayetteville, NC, where he graduated in 1995.
In May of 1965, Paul married the love of his life, Janice Imhoof, who stayed by his side through 27 moves over 53 years. He worked as a firefighter for the U.S. Forest Service in the Los Padres and Sierra National Forests, and as a California Highway Patrol officer in Ventura County. In 1973, he joined the U.S. Army, earning his airborne aviator wings at Fort Rucker, AL and his senior parachutist wings at Fort Bragg, NC. He flew both helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft, serving in Germany, Korea and Turkey as well as Fort Bragg, NC and the Military District of Washington, DC. Paul was the command pilot for the Army Commander-in-Chief Europe for five out of his nine years in Germany. As part of his service, Paul was honored to serve as the pilot for General “Lightning Joe” Collins, during the 40th anniversary of D-Day in St. Mere Eglise, France. A volunteer senior ski patrol officer in Germany, he also piloted the Golden Knights parachute team prior to retiring as Chief Warrant Officer IV in 1995.
After retirement, Paul was a corporate pilot for Northrup-Grumman in Los Angeles and flew corporate aircraft out of Concord and Sacramento. He acquired almost 15,000 hours during his military/civilian career and was an instructor pilot for the Huey and C-12 aircraft. He and Janice lived in Lincoln, NE, Los Angeles, Roseville, Clarksville, TN and Lynden, WA. Throughout his life, Paul loved telling stories and jokes and, with his outgoing personality, never met a stranger.
Beloved husband, father, grandpa, son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend, Paul is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Janice; sons John Patrick (Melissa) Gritz of Mason City, Iowa and Sergeant First Class Jeffrey (Kate) Gritz of Fort Campbell, KY; grandchildren Angus Gritz of Seattle, WA and Teagan Gritz of Roseville; twin brother John (Gloria) Gritz of Eagan, MN; brothers Rocky (Mary Beth) MacKenzie of Burbank, Bob (Anita) MacKenzie of Olympia, WA, and Tom (Charmaine) MacKenzie of Atlanta; sister Eva “Missy” Gritz of Saugus; his namesake nephew, Paul “Marty” Gritz of Mason City, Iowa; additional grief-stricken nephews and nieces; and many other loving relatives and friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Paul H. “Doc” Gritz and Coral MacKenzie, and older brother, Toby Gritz, also an aviator and 1962 graduate of Fillmore High School.
Friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Life and burial with full military honors at 11 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 3, at Ivy Lawn Cemetery, 5400 Valentine Road, Ventura. Donations in Paul’s memory may be made to Boy Scout Troop 406, 644 Clay St., Fillmore, 93015, in care of Brett Chandler.

Sally Jacinto Ortiz

Sally Jacinto Ortiz, was granted by our Lord in Heaven, to join her late husband Corney Ortiz, the love of her life.
She was surrounded by her closest family as she slipped peacefully into the ever after. Sally was a silently, strong woman, who tended to the needs of all in-front of her own.
She was a caregiver in the greatest sense for her husband, children, grandchildren and young charges she raised. She never condemned anyone, and kept her emotions to herself. Only once in awhile "busting loose!” She loved her life and her friendships, and had her confidants, that she held close to her heart.
She leaves behind her best friends Julia Ortiz, and her husband's sister Aunt Jay, Grandchildren Ronnie and Sadie, Step Grands; Chastity, Jasmine and Ashley, Step Greats; Kiana, Serina, Jakob, Philip, Aryanna, Sophia, Harlyn, Sons; Ronnie(Bea) and Eddie(Brenda) and of course various charges that are too many to list. (You know who you are).
"Be content to be a simple sheep, listening to my voice and following me, I will lead you into restful green pastures and guide you along the path of righteousness"
We will miss you Sally, and are content that you know how much you are loved.
A Graveside Service will be held on November 29, 2018 at 11:00am at Bardsdale Cemetery in Fillmore, Ca.
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 Sally’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, CA 93060. 805.229.7054

Mark D. Ebell (1966–2018)

It’s with a heavy heart that we announce that Mark D. Ebell, life-long resident of Ventura County, died unexpectedly on November 7, 2018 at the age of 51.
Mark is survived by his wife, Ines Ebell; and his children; Michaela, Annelise, Kara, and Theodore Ebell; and his soon-to-be born grandson, Greyson Perez.
Mark was a veteran of the Army, Army National Guard and a devoted father and husband. He enjoyed the outdoors, tinkering, conspiracy theories, and spending time with his family. He will be remembered for his silly, sarcastic sense of humor, kind heart and for the love he had for his family. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family, and all who knew him.
A memorial service is scheduled for 5pm on Friday, November 30th at the Veterans Memorial Building located at 511 Second St, Fillmore. A private burial will be held at Bardsdale Cemetery.
The Ebell family would like to thank everyone who made donations to help with the expenses of the funeral. You made this possible for us to honor Mark the way he deserved to be honored, and we thank everyone for the donations, food, and prayers that were sent.

Captain Donald (Don) Henry Gunderson, Retired USN (1935-2018)

It is with sorrow that the family of Captain Donald (Don) Henry Gunderson, Retired, USN, of Fillmore, California, announces he went to heaven on Sunday, October 21, 2018 at the age of 83.
Don was born in Fargo, North Dakota to parents Palmer E. Gunderson and Hazel M. Gunderson (Anderson) on March 21, 1935 where he was raised alongside his younger brother Paul. After graduating from Fargo Central High School, he was awarded a Navy ROTC scholarship and attended the University of Wisconsin, Madison as a Midshipman, U.S. Naval Reserve. He graduated with a Bachelors of Business Administration Degree and was commissioned as an Ensign into the Unites States Navy in June 1957. He furthered his education, receiving a Master's of Science in Electrical Engineering from the Naval Post Graduate School in Monterey, California. Don met his first wife Joan Jane Francis while attending the University of Wisconsin. They married in the fall of 1957.
His service in the United States Navy took him to numerous military ports and bases around the U.S. as well as abroad – including Norfolk, Virginia; Panama City, Florida; Pearl Harbor, Hawaii; the Mediterranean Sea and three assignments during the Vietnam War. In 1976, Don was commissioned to the rank of Captain and assigned to Command at Sea, based out of Charleston, South Carolina as the Captain of the USS DAVIS (DD937). Under his command, the DAVIS was the Destroyer Squadron’s Flagship for its UNITAS XVII operation tour around South America. After commanding the USS DAVIS, Don was assigned to the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Port Hueneme Division, CA as Commanding Officer. His last active duty station was at the Pentagon, Washington D.C.
In 1972, Don was awarded the Air Medal and Bronze Star Medal with combat “V”. He retired from the United States Navy on February 1, 1985 after his wife Joan, was diagnosed with breast cancer. They moved to Fillmore in March 1985 to be closer to their daughters, Jennifer (Gunderson) Pimentel and Vickie (Gunderson) Bogner. Sadly, Joan passed away in February 1986.
Shortly thereafter, Don was introduced through his neighbors to Ruth Sanders of Fillmore. They were married in January 1987. In 1990 with two Fillmore Council members leaving the Council, Don took the opportunity to give something back to the community in which he now lived and loved, and ran for City Council. With Ruth’s support, Don won a seat on the Council and three terms thereafter. His twelve year tenure included two terms as the City’s Mayor. The 1994 Northridge earthquake was probably one of the most devastating and challenging times for the City. The City of Fillmore came through strong.
Under Don’s leadership the City received immediate and long-term necessary FEMA monies and grants to assist in its re-building.
In April 1993, Don and Ruth joined the Rotary Club of Fillmore. Don served as President, Secretary/Treasurer and Foundation Chair to name a few. In 2002, Don became a member of the Board of Directors of the Fillmore Piru Veterans Memorial District. He served with the veterans for many years and helped the Veterans Memorial District obtain several grants enabling the District to pay for a number of repairs and improvements. In March 2015, Don was recognized by the City of Fillmore and given its annual Lifetime Achievement Award. That same year Don and Ruth led the annual Fillmore May Festival Parade as the Grand Marshal. Together, Don and Ruth were very active members in the Faith Community Church of Fillmore.
Don loved his travels with Ruth. They enjoyed 23 cruises that took them to many of the countries Don had been to during his long career in the United States Navy. These trips covered Europe and South America, including places like Machu Picchu, Peru and multiple Panama Canal crossings.
Don is survived by his brother, Paul Gunderson of Rochester, Minnesota; daughters, Jennifer Pimentel of Fillmore; Vickie Bogner, and her husband Jim and their children James and Joshua of Carmel, Indiana; Scott Sanders and his wife JoAnn of Fillmore and Mindy Welch her husband Bill and their children Shelby and Koby of Ojai.
Don’s Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, November 17th, 2018 2:00 P.M. at Faith Community Church, 355 D Street, Fillmore, CA 93015. Reception to follow.
Don's family is privileged to extend our deepest gratitude – to all of the people of Fillmore, members of the Fillmore Rotary, his Neighbors, members of the Faith Community Church of Fillmore, all of his Doctors, their Staffs, the Palms Assisted Living in Ventura, Community Memorial Hospital in Ventura, Coastal View Healthcare of Ventura and Dignity Memorial of Fillmore. There will never be enough ways to thank you for all you’ve done.

Mary Lou Carrillo (1937-2018)

Mary Lou Carrillo, 81, a long-time resident of Fillmore and Piru, passed away on Thursday, October 18th, 2018.
Mary Lou was born on February 9th, 1937, in Los Angeles. At the age of nine she moved to Piru, where she resided for many years before eventually settling in Fillmore. Mary Lou’s fondest childhood memories were forged behind the counter in the Bluebird Cafe in Piru, (a building her daughter and son-in-law now own), where her mother provided for the family by serving food and tending bar.
Mary Lou attended Fillmore High School, and was a proud graduate of the Flashes class of 1955. During her time at FHS she majored in Home Economics and Bookkeeping, receiving special recognition for her skills in Home Economics at the end of her senior year.
After having corresponded with him during his deployment in the Korean War, Mary Lou married the love of her life, Henry “Hank” Carrillo, in 1956. She went on to become a mother to two children, Richard and Lori, whom she cared for with an abundance of affection while also maintaining a full-time job.
Throughout her career Mary Lou continued to utilize her bookkeeping skills, working in financial management and record-keeping at Security Pacific Bank, Ventura County Fruit Growers, and finally, at Ladera Fruit Company.
After retiring from her position at Ladera Fruit Company, Mary Lou enjoyed traveling with her husband, playing slot machines in Laughlin and Las Vegas, Nevada, and most of all, spending time with her grandchildren. She was well-known for showering her grandchildren with love; often attending their sporting events, bringing them gifts from her travels, and calling them on their birthdays to sing “Happy Birthday” through the telephone.
In addition to all the above, Mary Lou also maintained active involvement in the Fillmore community throughout her lifespan. She served as an officer for the Fillmore High School Athletic Booster Club for many years, volunteered as a youth cheer coach, and played on, and helped organize, a women’s community softball team, entitled, the Hit & Mrs.
Mary Lou continued to support and donate to Fillmore youth organizations until her passing. In fact, one of Mary Lou’s final acts was to donate funds to the Fillmore High School Football team so that the players could be fed a pancake breakfast before this year’s rivalry game versus the Santa Paula Cardinals. The triumph of the Flashes over the Cardinals in that game surely put a smile on Mary Lou and her husband, Hank’s, faces.
Mary Lou will be most remembered for her kind-hearted nature, open-hearted acceptance of all those who knew her, and the love of music she carried in her soul.
Mary Lou is preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Henry “Hank” Carrillo. She is survived by her son, Richard; daughter-in-law, Jana; daughter, Lori; son-in-law, Bobby; grandchildren, Ricky Myers, Becky Rojas, Christin Richter, Breanna McLain, Joseph Henry Carrillo, Kellsie McLain, Carson McLain, and Presley Lou McLain; great-grandchildren, Drew Myers, Adam Myers, Megan Fluker, Dominic Henry Rojas, Makya Richter, Zachary Richter, Joseph Richard Carrillo, and Jaxson Myers.
Graveside services will be held at Bardsdale Cemetery on Monday, November 5th at 1:00PM, with a reception to follow.
Donations in Mary Lou’s honor can be made to the Fillmore/Piru- Heritage Valley American Cancer Society Relay for Life.
Arrangements are under the care of the Skillin Carroll Mortuary, Fillmore.

Eneida Gutierrez “Grammie” (1929-2018)

Eneida Gutierrez, “Grammie” to all who met her, was born February 6, 1929 in Los Angeles, California. She passed away October 12, 2018 at Treacy Villa in Ventura, California at the age of 89. She was a resident of Ventura County for 40 years. She held many jobs throughout her life, but none as important as being a loving wife, Mom and “Grammie” to those she loved. She loved camping in Yosemite, traveling and all things pertaining to flowers. She was preceded in death by her husband of 69 years, Carlos “Papa” Gutierrez, and her son-in-law, Terry Rosenblad. She is survived by her sister, Ileana (Lee) Day, daughter Shelly Rosenblad of Fillmore, California, son Mike Gutierrez (spouse Stella) of Palmdale, California, daughter Cindy (spouse Tom) of Eagle Point, Oregon, son Greg Gutierrez of Palmdale, California, and son Steve Gutierrez (spouse Barb) of Palmdale, California, 15 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren. A funeral Mass will be held at 12 noon on Friday, October 26 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Fillmore, with final internment immediately following at Bardsdale Cemetery, 1698 S. Sespe St., Fillmore. Funeral services are under the direction of Skillin-Carroll Funeral Home, 600 Central Ave., Fillmore, California.

Maria Inez Medina (1936-2018)

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our loving and wonderful mother, Maria Inez Medina (Peggy). Mom entered into Heaven, embraced by our Heavenly Father, to join her husband, Gilbert on Thursday, October 18, 2018.
Mom was born in Fillmore, California on February 22, 1936, to Fidel and Alice Lozano, who preceded her. She grew up in a loving family with three sisters and two brothers. She graduated from Fillmore High School in 1954 and was a member of the Girls Athletic Association.
She met the love of her life, Gilbert Medina in Fillmore and they married on October 26, 1958. They had seven children and she took pride in raising them with love. She was a meticulous housewife and mother. She took great pride in her children’s appearances, along with keeping her house clean and her yard beautiful. Mom enjoyed her Saturday visits with Aunt Barbara, as well as visits from her grandchildren. Giving to her favorite charities was also something she was very passionate about.
She is survived by her children; Pam (Philip) Garcia, Lisa (Kyle) Dock, Laurie (Valentin) Montano, Bridget (Steve) Gangl, Joseph (Arisela) Medina, Michelle Medina, Mitchell (Elizabeth) Medina, 16 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings, Barbara (Robert) Morales and Frances (Chikao) Irie. Her siblings preceding her were Dorothy Sanchez, Charles Lozano and John Lozano.
We would like to thank Deacon Ramon for the compassion he showed our mother. She always looked forward to his weekly visits on Wednesdays, when they would pray together and she would be given communion.
On Thursday, October 25, 2018 at 9:30am, A Holy Mass will be officiated by Fr. Alex Amayun, at Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Fillmore. Rosary will be recited immediately following the Mass. Upon our mothers wishes, a private burial will be held at Bardsdale Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to Saint Francis of Assisi Church in memory of Maria I. Medina.
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 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, CA 93060. 805.229.7054

Charles Wyche Jr. “Charlie” (1923–2018)

Charles Wyche Jr. “Charlie” born to his parents Charles Wyche Sr. and Olympia Valle on August 23, 1923 in Los Angeles. Charlie spent his childhood with his brother Jack at the McKinley home for boys located in Van Nuys. Graduated from Van Nuys high school in 1942, where he was named All Valley League for basketball. He joined the Army Air Core in 1943 and became a radio operator. 1946 was an air crew member flying over the coast of Africa. After the service, he spent one year teaching in Africa and then taught military dependents in Zaragoza, Spain where he met his late wife Maria Redondo “Lola.” After their five children were born, they returned to the United States in 1965, to Fillmore, where Charlie taught at the Fillmore junior and high school and coached tennis and basketball as well. Charlie was happiest on the tennis courts (one of the best players in Ventura County) and while traveling with Lola all over the world. Charlie is preceded in death by his brother Jack and his daughter Ana. He is survived by his wife Maria and his four children. Au contraire daddy, you did not have a dull life.

William Ray Reaves passed away peacefully October 6, 2018.
He is survived by his brother Johnny Test (Katrina) from Modesto, CA; sister Rosemary Small from Washington State; many nieces, nephews and friends.
Graveside Service will be held on Friday; October 12, 2018 at 1pm
Bardsdale Cemetery 1698 S. Sespe St. Fillmore, CA.

Camilo D. Gurrola (1925-2018)

Our father, Camilo D. Gurrola, “Cam” “Miller” was born on July 18, 1925 in the “Campito” in Fillmore California, where he lived the majority of his life, except for the time spent overseas during WWII.
He attended Fillmore schools and when he turned 18, was drafted into the U.S. Army. His 3 brothers, John, Gregg, and Julio Gurrola, followed soon after, defending our country during WWII. He achieved the rank of PFC and on April 11, 1945 with the 104th Infantry Regiment- 26th Infantry division (a.k.a “Yankees”) liberated Dora-Mittelbow concentration camp in Austria (verified by the L.A museum of the Holocaust). The horrors of what he witnessed left a deep, lasting impact for the rest of his life. He was awarded the Bronze Star medal, Purple Heart, Good Conduct medal, and the Victory medal.
He enjoyed watching football, his favorite teams being the Rams and Notre Dame, Yankees baseball, watching old westerns and movies about WWII, jig-saw puzzles and spending time with his best friend his German Shepard named Heidi.
In 1952, he married our mother, Theresa Vasquez. In 1954, daughter Anna Marie was born, in 1956 Gloria Irene was born, and in 1962, son Lawrence Daniel was born. He worked at the Naval base in Port Hueneme for 30 years, holding various positions. During that time, he took the required college courses to become a real estate salesman. His final year was spent at Greenfield care center due to various health issues. Our eternal gratitude to the many CNA’s, RNA’s, LVN’s, RN’s, and Matthias who treated our father like their own “Papa”.
Camilo is survived by his wife Theresa Vasquez Gurrola; daughters Anna Marie Gurrola and Gloria Gurrola Mendez; son Larry Gurrola; son-in-law Ronnie Mendez; daughter-in-law Susan Z. Gurrola;
Grandchildren Christy, Naomi Qualls, Daniel and Anthony Mendez, Danielle Gurrola; 9 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great grandson and brother Richard Gurrola.
Preceded in death by parents Panfilo and Juana (DeHaro) Gurrola; sisters Katie Zavala, Lucy Munoz, Pauline Ruiz and Candy Gurrola; brothers John, Greg & Dolores (twins) and Julio Gurrola.
A special thank you to Dr. Jeffrey Allan and his staff for their care and compassion, also to Companions Hospice.
Rosary was held on Thursday, Sept. 20, 2018 9:30am at St. Francis of Assisi Church 1048 Ventura St. Fillmore, Funeral Mass at 10:00am St. Francis of Assisi Church burial followed at Bardsdale Cemetery 1698 S. Sespe St. Fillmore, CA.
Memorial donations may be made to VFW or St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Billy Joe Winters (1939-2018)

Billy Joe Winters, 78, of Apple Valley, CA, passed away on Sunday, August 12, 2018 after a lengthy illness.
Mr. Winters was born in Oklahoma to William and Mattie Winters on November 16, 1939. He was a long time resident of Ventura County. Upon retiring, he moved to Nevada and in 2013 moved to San Bernardino County.
Billy is survived by his children: Jodie (Bill) Benoit of Apple Valley, CA; Bill (Kristy) Winters of Camas Valley, OR; Donald (Julia) Winters of Fillmore, CA; Richard Winters of Camarillo, CA, Brother Rick Winters of Reno, NV, and Sisters Joyce Richardson of Sacramento, CA and Colet Lee. He is also survived by 7 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, and 4 great-great- grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Billy was preceded in death by his parents, William and Mattie Winters, and sisters Della Henderson and Helen Moody.
Billy was a hardworking man, retiring from Fillmore-Piru Citrus Association. He also worked for many citrus packing houses throughout Ventura County.
The family will be having a Celebration of Life gathering in his memory on Saturday, September 29th at First Baptist Church of Fillmore, 1057 1st St, Fillmore, CA. on Saturday September 29th. Services will begin at 10:00 a.m. with a reception immediately following.

Duane Lee Dye (1932-2018)

Duane Lee Dye, “a Nebraskan Cornhusker”, of Fillmore, California passed away at the age of 85 on September 19, 2018
Duane was born to Mildred and Ralph Dye on September 23, 1932 in Stanton, Nebraska. He was raised on the family farm, along with his sister Carol, near Pilger, Nebraska and that farm remains in the family today. Growing up in Nebraska always held a special place in Duane’s heart, even though he left Nebraska for California in 1957.
When Duane was 17 years old he contracted polio which was sweeping through the Midwest and ultimately, leaving the cold and difficult weather that Nebraska offered was what Duane needed. His determination allowed him to champion the physical difficulties that the polio presented and after attaining his college degree in Accounting, he left Nebraska for California. When he arrived in California he took a job at Wayside Honor Farm in Castaic, working as a supervisor within the Accounting Department. At the same time he was working at the Honor Farm, he was developing income tax clientele which ultimately led to him starting his own insurance agency, Duane Dye Insurance, in Newhall. The area of Newhall was a community of only 15,000 people and it was on the cusp of great growth. Duane Dye Insurance is still a vibrant insurance agency in the Santa Clarita Valley today.
Duane married his wife Linda, in August of 1965, taking on not only a wife but a wife with three children, Lori, Luanne & Larry. Duane and Linda added another sibling, Jef, to the family in 1968. Between running a business and raising a family, Duane was an active member of the Newhall Rotary Club and a member of the Baha’i Faith. His devotion to his faith helped to guide him through his life and his commitment to Rotary was the foundation of his many years of community service to the Santa Clarita Valley. His greatest desire was to help the world, through Rotary International, by making people aware of the need to eradicate polio throughout the world and helped raise awareness of the issue through the Rotary Polio Plus program. Duane and Linda, through contributions and fundraising, were responsible for inoculating approximately 88,000 individuals throughout the world with the polio vaccine.
Until just a year ago, Duane stayed active in Rotary even while dealing with many health complications caused by advancing age and his physical challenges. The recent months were indeed very difficult for Duane and he bore the burden in a stoic and determined fashion. Upon his death, Duane was surrounded by his family and loved ones. Duane touched and affected all those he met through his example of courage, determination, humility, patience, compassion for others and long suffering. His wise counsel and ability to listen was extraordinary and impactful. He will be greatly missed by all that knew him. Duane will be buried in a private family graveside service and a celebration of his life is being planned for the near future.
In lieu of flowers, a contribution to the Rotary End Polio Now program in Duane’s name at the web site https://www.endpolio.org/donate is greatly appreciated by his family.

Jean Marie Wokal (1933-2018)

Jean was born in North Hollywood on April 22nd, 1933 to Ed and Gladys Blakely. She grew up in Raseda, California with her two siblings Robert and Patricia. She loved playing softball, riding her bike, and as a teen loved going to the beach with her friends and sunbathing in the sun. She graduated from Raseda High School in 1951 and started working at Sav-on drug store where she would reconnect with the love of her life, Donald Wokal. They fell in love and went on to marry on July 14th, 1956. Don and Jean moved to Simi Valley where they raised their three children Gary, Lori, and Michael.
As they raised their children, Jean stayed at home and ran an in home daycare. They eventually moved to Fillmore in 1977 where they farmed their citrus and avocado orchard. Don and Jean always loved to travel, be with friends, go dancing, and spend time with their family.
Don and Jean spent most of their life traveling the world. They loved to cruise, travel to different to countries, but they spent most of their time traveling around in their motorhome visiting friends and family and seeing the country. When she wasn’t traveling, she was at home “playing house” as she would call it and was in her craft room.
Even as a young girl, Jean was always social, and that part of her life never stopped. She loved going to her club “fat ladies”, which she was apart of for 50 years, playing bingo and poker, and shopping at thrift stores, Pic n’ Save and garage sales. She also spent her time volunteering for the Salvation Army and was a member of relay for life, which was important to her being a two-time breast cancer survivor.
Another joy in life was spending time with all of her family. She was well loved by her three children, nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Whether it was going to sporting events, camping, road-trips and or just sitting by the pool watching everyone laughing and having fun, she loved sharing all her life stories with everyone and making us laugh with all her dirty jokes.
Jean “Gram-ma” will be missed by all her family and friends, but are at peace knowing she left us outside doing what she loved and is now back dancing in the arms of her husband Don.

Chris Anthony Hernandez (1971-2018)

Chris "Pata" Hernandez passed away in a tragic accident on September 5, 2018, in Fillmore. Chris was born June 5, 1971, at Santa Paula Hospital. He lived in Fillmore his entire life. Chris took after his dad and became a mechanic. He spent lots of his time restoring his motorcycles and ATV's, which were his passion. He loved spending time with his family and friends who became family. Chris' sense of humor touched everyone. He was a kind, funny, loving man. Chris had an infectious smile you could never forget and told unforgettable stories that would keep us all entertained. Chris leaves behind three beautiful daughters, Mercedes "Sadie" Hernandez-Rios, Lauren Hernandez, and Sarina Armenta. Chris also leaves behind his mother Katie Hernandez, his longtime girlfriend Lisa Vasquez, and six siblings. Chris is preceded in death by his dad Tony Hernandez, his brothers Raymond Hernandez and Mony Hernandez, his sister Janet Henderson. He will be deeply missed by all. There will be a service held at Skillin Carroll Mortuary in Fillmore on Friday, September 21, 2018. Viewing starts at 10 a.m. and services will begin at 11:30 a.m. with a reception immediately following.

Minnie Lou Benedict (1933–2018)

Minnie Lou Benedict of Fillmore CA passed away peacefully on Monday, September 3, 2018, in Fillmore CA, after a six month bout with inoperable brain cancer.
She was 84.
Minnie Lou was born on October 5, 1933 in Fillmore Ca. to Aver and Dossie Grimes. She lived in Fillmore nearly all of her life. She graduated from Fillmore High School in 1953, and then worked as a retail clerk for a few years and later as a part time assistant to her father in the management of his business enterprises, which included citrus ranching, an RV park, property management and other small businesses.
As a young woman, her favorite pastime was riding and caring for her horses. For decades, she regularly attended Fillmore Methodist Church and later attended First Baptist Church in Fillmore for more than 25 years until her passing.
She was married to James L. Benedict, of Ventura, who preceded her in death in 1993. They had no children.
In the past three decades, she was actively involved with her extended family and kept up on current events. Her sense of civic responsibility led her to vote in every election since 1957. She was a generous contributor to churches, other religious organizations, and medical charities.
She is survived by her niece, Mary Grimes of Ventura, three first cousins, Ventura County, one first cousin in Sacramento, and two first cousins in other states.
Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Wednesday, September 12, 2018 from 6:00p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Skillin-Carroll Mortuary, 600 Central Avenue, Fillmore. Memorial service will be Thursday, September 13, 2018 at 11a.m. at the Skillin-Carroll Mortuary, with interment immediately following at Bardsdale Cemetery, 1698 S. Sespe Street.

Geraldine Frances Wunsch Lee (1941-2018)

Geraldine Frances Wunsch Lee (Geri) passed away on September 2, 2018. Geri was born August 16, 1941 in Los Angeles, CA. to Robert V. Wunsch and Veronica M. Hentges. Geri worked for The Southern California Gas Company for 36 years and retired as a Lead Planning Associate. After retiring, Geri moved to Fillmore, CA. in 2003 and enjoyed volunteering throughout the community. She worked with the Rotary Club, the Ladies Auxiliary, the Fillmore Historical Museum, Fillmore's Parks and Recreation, and the Fillmore Convalescent Center. She is survived by her children Robert Lee, Jr., Colleen Lee, Lauree Belleville, Catherine Graden (Jeff), her grandchildren Zachary Lee, Jacob Graden (Sindy), Aaron Morse (Melanie), Samantha Belleville, Patrick Belleville (Denise), Jason Belleville (Lexi), Julaine Graden, and Jackson Graden; her great-grandchildren Liam Barrett, Benaiah Henley, and Baby Belleville (due October 2018). A memorial for Geri will be held on Saturday, September 22, 2018 at 2:00 PM Faith Community Church, 355 D St. Fillmore, CA. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice.

Billie Darlene Gooding (1931–2018)

Billie Darlene Gooding was born on February 24, 1931, in Hebbronville, Jim Hogg County, Texas. She was the eldest daughter to Floy and William Morris. After battling cancer off and on for a number of years, she went peacefully to be with her Lord on Saturday, August 25, 2018.
Darlene moved to Santa Paula, CA with her parents and sister in June of 1949. Her father, William, was a Field Superintendent for Humble Oil Co. (now ExxonMobil) and he had been transferred to California. Darlene was a 1949 graduate of Webster High School in Webster, Texas.
Darlene married Clifford W. Galbraith in 1950. They had four children – Daniel, Stacey, Shelley, and Steve. Darlene and Clifford divorced in 1969. In 1970, Darlene married John (Bud) Gooding.
Over the years Darlene worked in several clerical, bookkeeping, and managerial positions. She was a co-owner of Santa Paula Lanes with her husband Bud from 1976 until they sold it in 1992. Darlene was actively involved in the management of Gooding Ranch until her son, Dan, was named manager in 2008.
Darlene is preceded in death by her sister, Dorothy (Cissie) Stringer, Clifford Galbraith, John Gooding, her two daughters, Stacey Nasalroad and Shelley Signor, and daughter-in-law Linda Galbraith. Darlene is survived by sons Dan and Steve, seven grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, sons-in-law Brad Nasalroad and Gene Signor, and daughter-in-law Brenda Galbraith.
Per Darlene’s wishes, there will be a private family graveside service in Santa Paula, CA.

Floyd K Legan Jr. (1924-2018)

Floyd K. Legan Jr. passed away in his sleep on August 7th 2018 in Oxnard, California. Born on June 6th 1924, to Floyd and Cecelia Legan at the Cottage Hospital in Santa Barbara. The Legan family resided in Santa Barbara for 14 years while Floyd attended Den Grammar School on the Dos Pueblos Ranch, Elwood Grammar School in Gaviota, and the La Cumbra School in Santa Barbara. In 1939 the Legan Family moved to the Legan Ranch in Fillmore, where Floyd attended and graduated from Fillmore High School in 1943.
Floyd entered the US army in June 1943, and served until late 1945 in the Philippines as one of the “Remington Raiders.” After an honorable discharge, Floyd went on to attend to attend Woodbury College/University, where he received a degree in public accounting, which he practiced until 2015. Floyd was also active in the day-to-day operations of the family ranch.
Floyd was an active member throughout his life with the Fillmore First United Methodist Church, Piru United Methodist Church, and the Bardsdale United Methodist Church.
Floyd was very thankful for the many years love and care given to him by Andrea, Bryan, and Wyatt.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Bardsdale United Methodist Church.
Graveside services will be at the Bardsdale Cemetery on August 25th at 9:00AM.

Marjorie Anita Southwick

Marjorie Anita Southwick, 95 years old, died June 15, 2018 in Carson City, Nevada. Born on October 3, 1922 in Oxnard, California, she was the second daughter of Allen T. and Isla G. Coleman. Her sister Helen was her only sibling.
Anita graduated from Fillmore (CA) High School in 1939. She married Glen Southwick on October 4, 1942. Glen’s enlistment in the U.S. Army Air Corps in 1943 led them to Texas and Florida, where they started their family. After the war they returned to Fillmore, where Anita continued raising their growing family, working at times as a teacher’s aide at the elementary school and volunteering at blood banks.
Known to family and friends simply as “Ne,” she was very skilled in sewing and quilting, was an avid reader, and a talented painter. She played the piano, studied history, and spent years researching family genealogy. Ne loved big band music and danced to Glenn Miller. She loved baking bread, cookies and other treats.
In 1965-1966, Anita and Glen hosted Bismar Pombo, an AFS exchange student from Uruguay. Their generous love and hospitality soon made Bismar a fourth brother. He still maintains regular contact with the family, including trips back to America to reunite with them.
Anita and Glen moved to Clayton, Idaho in 1969, where they owned the Saturday Mountain Resort along the Salmon River. She spent several years working for the Challis National Forest at the Yankee Fork Ranger Station. After selling the resort in 1975, they built a house nearby. It was a favorite family gathering place, especially in the summer months when Anita’s garden yielded fresh raspberries to top ice cream desserts.
After retirement, the couple volunteered for many years at the nearby ghost town of Custer. Working as a docent at the Custer Museum, Ne greeted visitors and worked in the gift shop. She and Glen were also instrumental in the founding of the Friends of Custer Museum (now The Land of the Yankee Fork Historical Association).
In 1997, Ne and Glen moved to Stevensville, Montana. Both were soon active volunteers at the Stevensville Museum, and had an interest in the Lewis and Clark bicentennial activities of the area. They loved to take road trips, putting thousands of miles on their car, visiting friends and family, and sightseeing.
The couple moved for the last time to the Gardnerville/Carson City area of Nevada in 2006 to be closer to family in their final years. She was preceded in death by her husband Glen, her sister Helen McNair and infant son David.
Anita is survived by her children Don, Marilyn, Tim, Bismar and Roger. She is also survived by 10 grandchildren: Scott, Mark, Leslie, Melanie, Jacob and Joshua Munoz; Charles and Edward Southwick; Emilio Pombo; and Eric Snider; as well as 25 great grandchildren and 12 great great grandchildren. A memorial gathering was held at Mormon Station State Park in Genoa, Nevada on July 8, 2018. We miss her greatly, but are also comforted that she is reunited with Glen and all their wonderful memories.