Hermilia Valencia Vasquez (1930-2013)

January 13, 1930 – November 22, 2013
Church and Memorial Services
Saint Francis of Assisi Church
1048 W. Ventura St
Fillmore, Ca.
Friday, November 29th, @ 2:00 pm
Skillin-Carroll Mortuary
600 Central Ave.
Fillmore, Ca
Saturday, November 30th 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

William (Bill, Billy) R. Mitchell

A true legend passed away on Tuesday, November 12, 2013.
William (Bill, Billy) R. Mitchell went to be with the Lord while his wife, Lana and daughter, Susan were at his bedside at home. He was born in Cord, Arkansas. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Zelma (Jones) Mitchell. He is survived by the love of his life, his wife Lana; children, Jo Anne (Jon) Layton, Susan (Rex) Wilson, Jeffrey Mitchell and Desiree Perez; five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren and his beloved dog, Bogey.
Bill was raised in Fillmore, California where he raised his family until he moved to Bakersfield, California where he and his wife Lana spent many years raising Desiree. At the time of his death, Bill was living in Westerville, Ohio with his wife and daughter, Desiree.
Bill worked for Southern California Edison for 23 years and then upon retirement became the founding partner of Diversified Utility Services, a successful utility construction company that is still in operation today in Bakersfield, California. Bill always said he was fortunate enough to enjoy the work he did each and every day of his life.
Bill was an avid golfer and loved to fish, hike and spend time with his family. Bill loved life, his friends, and his family. He touched the lives of many with his outgoing demeanor, generosity and sense of humor. Friends and family are invited to a memorial service at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 3700 Riverside Blvd, Bakersfield, California 93305. This will be held on Monday, November 25, 2013 at 11:00 a.m.
I Corinthians 13:13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

James Fredrick Faris (1948-2013)

James Fredrick Faris, 65, passed away June 22, 2013 after a brief illness.
Jim was born in Grand Island, NE on June 5, 1948 and was the only child of James and Anna Faris. The family moved to Fillmore in 1950 when Jim's dad landed a teaching job at Fillmore High School.
Jim graduated from Fillmore High School in 1966, earned a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from the University of Southern California in 1970, and a teaching credential from California Lutheran College in 1971. His teaching career began at Newbury Park High School in September 1971 and continued at Thousand Oaks High School until June 2010. During his nearly 40 year teaching career, “Mr. Faris” taught subjects ranging from Business/Economics to History. Jim was very passionate about the subjects he taught and was loved by his students because of this passion. While at Thousand Oaks High School, he was elected the first Star Teacher by the Senior Class.
Traveling the United States, sharing his knowledge with others, and being with his family (especially his granddaughter) were some of Jim's favorite things to do.
Jim is survived by his wife Linda Faris, son Jimmy Faris, daughter-in-law Mindi Faris, and granddaughter Bryn Faris.
At Jim's request, there were no services. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your favorite charity.

Manuela Felix Perez (1937-2013)

Manuela Felix Perez, 75, of Fillmore, passed away suddenly on November 2, 2013 in Thousand Oaks. Manuela was born on December 27, 1937 in Jerez Zacatecaz and lived in Ventura County for 43 years after moving from Mexico. Our loving Mother and Grandmother has gone to be with the Lord. She was an amazing woman who was so giving and loving. We Loved you yesterday, we will Love you Today and we will always Love you. You will be in our hearts forever. God has gained the most Beautiful, strongest and Kindest angel ever. Te Amamos Mela. Manuela is survived by her loving Husband of 65 years Francisco M. Perez and her Children Angelica Santos from Zacatecaz; Fernando Perez (Chirstela) of Fillmore, CA; Manuel Perez (Marilu) of San Antonio, TX; Francisco Perez (Herminia) Fillmore, CA; Erminda Tovar (Eduardo) of Austin, TX; Leticia Vega; Modesta Rojas (Uriel); Griselda Martinez (Albert) Lorenzo Perez (Evelyn); Rita Martinez (Juan); and Sonia Perez. A visitation will be held on Tuesday November 5, 2013 from 7:45 to 10 pm at the St Francis of Assisi Church in Fillmore, CA 1048 West Ventura Street Fillmore, CA. 93015, with a rosary at 8 pm. Mass will take place the following day, November 6, 2013 at 10 am at St Francis of Assisi Church as well. Burial will immediately follow at Bardsdale Cemetery, 1698 South Sespe Street Fillmore, CA 93015. Manuela has been entrusted to the care of the family owned and opperated Reardon Funeral Home in Oxnard CA 511 N A st. To pay tribute to Manuela's life please visit www.reardonfh.com.

Charles S. Ponce (1925-2013)

Charles S. Ponce was born in Mexico on 08-14-1925. He was raised in Piru, CA., He passed away on 10-25-2013. He is survived by his wife Lupe of 65 years, his brother Raymond (Alma) , his sons Carlos (LiAnn), Ernie (Lucille), Ricky, his daughter Sandra (Danny), Grandchildren Tami, Ryan, Amber, Ricky Jr., Raeven, Cory, Milah, Wyatt, Frank, Tony, Ernie, his great grandson Sean Ray and many nieces and nephews.
Our dad loved his sports, especially the Dodgers, he was a proud man he wore his USA cap! He loved parties, our mom’s good cooking and Las Vegas. He will be deeply missed. Our Dad beat cancer twice in 22 years, but he succumbed to chronic heart failure at the age of 88.
Our thanks to the staff at Henry Mayo Hospital, Santa Paula Memorial, Green Valley Nursing Home.
Mass will be held at San Salvador Mission Church in Piru at 10:00am on 11-08-2013. Reception will follow.

Inez Gonzalez (1931-2013)

July 9, 1931 - October 18, 2013
Inez Gonzalez passed away at her home surrounded by family and friends on Friday, October 18, 2013 at 5:00pm.
She is survived by her three daughters, four sons and loving grandchildren.
A rosary will be held at Skillin-Carroll Chapel, 600 N Central Avenue, Fillmore, CA 93015 on Friday, October 25, 2013 from 11:30 to 12:00pm. Followed by a mass at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 1048 Ventura Street & Hwy. 126 at 12:30pm Graveside to follow at Pierce Brothers Santa Paula Cemetery, 380 Cemetery Road, Santa Paula, CA 93060.

Louise Garcia (1943-2013)

Louise Garcia was born on June 25, 1943 Jalisco, Mexico and passed away on October 04, 2013 in Ventura, CA at the age of 70 years old. Louise was a resident of Ventura County for 65 years.
She enjoyed crossword puzzles, collected glass figurines, birds and gardening.
She is survived by her husband: Phillip Garcia, Sister: Rosie, Sons: Richard Garcia Sr., Victor Garcia (daughter-in-law Ana Garcia); Phillip Garcia Jr.; Grandchildren: Richard Jr., Angelita, Victor Jr., Leonard, Julian, Kristian, Anthony, Desiree. Great Grandchildren: Alex, Tyson, Zachariah, Danny, Jamie.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 9, 2013 from 5:00 to 9:00pm at Skillin-Carroll Mortuary 600 N Central Ave., Fillmore.
Funeral Mass will be Thursday October 10, 2013 at 10:00am at St. Francis of Assisi in Fillmore.
Burial will follow at Bardsdale Cemetery.

John “Johnny” Chaveste was born on June 3, 1916 in Fillmore, Ca and passed away on September 11, 2013 in Fillmore, Ca. He was 97 years old.
John was a lifelong Fillmore resident and was employed with Ventura County Fruit Growers retiring after 50 years of service. He was also a proud WWII veteran of the United States Army. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends as well as cooking, gardening and was a fan of baseball and boxing. He was a friend to many and will be dearly missed.
He is reunited with his wife, Virginia, parents, Julian and Petra, siblings Frank, Josefina, Simon and Pauline.
He is survived by daughter and son-in-law, Melissa and Phillip, granddaughters, Eva-Marie and Emily, nephew Steve, nieces Doreen and Brittany, grand nephew Falcon, as well as numerous nephews, nieces and ffiends.
John’s services will be on Monday, October 7, 2013 at Santa Rosa Church (668 S. Workman St, San Fernando, CA 91340) at 10:30am. Burial will follow at Ivy Lawn Cemetery in Ventura, Ca.

Ronnie Fred "Droop" Smith, a resident of Fillmore for more than half a century, died suddenly on Monday, the 9th of September, of chronic heart disease. He had been horseback riding with friends. He raised and trained American Paint Horses and was a long time amateur team roper.
Ron was also known for his participation in local sports. He coached Cassidy Girls Softball in the seventies, T-ball and Women's Softball in the eighties. In the nineties he coached youth softball and basketball for the LDS church athletic program and was a player-coach for the men's softball teams in both the city church leagues and the LDS men's athletic program.
Ron is survived by his wife of forty-nine years, five children, ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind one sister and nieces and nephews.
Services were held on September 17th at the LDS church on First Street, graveside at Bardsdale Cemetery, followed by a luncheon at the church.

Ruth Geno Musgrave (1917-2013)

Ruth Geno Musgrave was born on January 17, 1917 in Watseka, Illinois to Thomas and Dora Wall. She celebrated her 96th birthday this year with family and friends before passing peacefully to be with her Lord on August 26, 2013 in Fillmore, California after a very brief illness.
Ruth spent her childhood and youth in rural Illinois where she grew up during the lean years of the Depression era with 8 brothers and sisters. She graduated from high school and Illinois Normal College before beginning her teaching profession in Sheldon, Illinois. She married Donald P. Musgrave in 1942 and in pursuit of his medical training resided in Chicago, Washington, D.C., Fullerton, CA, Ventura, CA.,before finally moving to Fillmore where they lived from 1952 until their passing.
During their 55 years together they raised a family of 2 daughters and 1 son. As a homemaker, Ruth was devoted to her family as they are to her. She excelled as a seamstress and never failed to clothe her daughters and son with exceptionally well made outfits and used her sewing talents in home décor. Her involvement in her children’s activities, church and community events lead her to be active in Boy and Girl Scouting, FFA, Ventura County Garden Club, Fillmore Ebell, Fillmore Presbyterian Church as Deaconess, Needlemaster and member of Ruth Circle. She never failed to support her children in their school projects, sports and extracurricular activities. In addition to her outstanding sewing abilities, she was accomplished at gardening, wood working, wood carving, painting, weaving, basketry-she was a true artist. Her love of flowers and birdsis evident throughout her home. Her passion was loving the Lord.An avid bridge player, she taught bridge to many people in Fillmore and still attended 2-3 bridge games a week.
She is survived by the daughter Ann (Gregg), son James (Debra) and daughter, Joy (Gabriel) as well as grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is predeceased by her husband, Donald, parents, brothers and sisters and grandson, Jeffrey.
A day will not pass that she won’t be lovingly remembered for being a wonderful Mother, Grandmother, friend and neighbor. She will be dearly missed.
A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 7:00 P.M. at the Central Campusof Faith Community Church (formerly Fillmore Bible Church). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Roze Room Hospice of Ventura, 5675 Ralston St., Suite C, Ventura, CA 93003.

Harold R. Southwick (1927 – 2013)

Harold R. Southwick of Orem, Utah passed away peacefully on September 4th. He is now reunited with his lifelong sweetheart, June, who passed away in 1992. Harold was born in Ventura, California on September 30, 1927, the fifth of six sons born to James and Leona Southwick. He grew up in Southern California and developed a lifelong love of the citrus groves and beaches in the area. He attended elementary and high school in Fillmore, California. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II and also served an L.D.S. Church mission in North Carolina and Virginia. After his return from military service and the mission, Harold married his high school sweetheart, June Marie Barden, in the St. George Temple.

He attended Ventura City College, Fresno State University, where he graduated with honors, and the University of Southern California with additional graduate studies at the University of California at Berkeley while earning three college degrees.

Harold served for thirty years as an administrator in the California School System with the last fifteen years of his career spent as a district level administrator. He traveled extensively throughout the United States in his professional capacity as he recruited teachers and administrators. He also participated in many seminars and educational conferences.

An active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Harold served in many positions including several bishoprics, YM President, Sunday School President, Executive Secretary, Stake Music Chairman, Scoutmaster, Sunday School Teacher, High Priest Group Leader, and Public Affairs Specialist. Late in life, Harold was called on a Church Welfare Mission and established a tutoring program at the Deseret Industries in Provo, Utah.

He is survived by nine children and their families: Eric of Sammamish, WA; Mark of Boise, ID; Craig of Sandy, UT; Lisa of Las Vegas, NV; Todd of Provo, UT; Dane of Orem, UT; Scott of Alpine, UT; Kara of Orem, UT; Gina of Springville, UT; Harold was also blessed with 33 grandchildren and 35 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, September 9, at 2:00 p.m. at the Sharon Park 5th Ward Chapel, 150 East 600 North, Orem, UT. Prior to the service a viewing will be held from 1-1:45 p.m. in the Relief Society room. Interment will be at the Orem City Cemetery where Harold will be laid to rest beside his eternal companion. Condolences may be sent at www.bergmortuary.com.

Charlene (Charly) Gunter (1943-2013)

Charlene (Charly) Gunter was born in Bakersfield, Ca on April 5, 1943. She passed away at home of natural causes on Saturday, August 24th, 2013. She was preceded in death by her son, Douglas Wileman, her father, Charles Cotton, mother, Edna Cotton and sister, Deanna Cotton. Charlene is survived by her husband, Scott Gunter, son and his wife, Mike and Teri Wileman, stepson, Derek Gunter and his two children, her grandchildren, Taylor Gunter and Gavin Gunter. She is also survived by her two brothers and their wives, Larry and Gwen Cotton from Elizabeth, Co., Dewey and Kay Cotton of Tehachapi, Ca., numerous nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. Charlene also leaves behind cherished friends and loved ones from all walks of her life.
Charlene attended grammar schools in Fillmore and completed three years at Fillmore High. She went back later and earned her GED diploma. She was a stay at home mom to her two boys until they were in school. At that time she held a position as an Escrow officer at Glendale Federal Savings and loan bank. She moved back to Fillmore in the 70's and started working for her mom at Cotton's Cafe. After that she started a catering business which included preparing food and feeding the fire crew working on the Sespe fire. She was also involved in helping and feeding the 1994 Northridge earthquake victims. She spent three years as a dispatcher with the Ventura County Sheriffs department. She also did some bookkeeping from her home for several businesses in Ventura County.
Charlene loved people and was always willing to help with any project or fundraiser in Fillmore and Santa Paula. She was mostly known around Fillmore and Santa Paula as "Charly". She and Scott were members of the Moose Lodge and were especially active in the Santa Paula Lodge. They made many life long friends through the Lodge and various other organizations. She loved getting together with family and friends for Bar-B-Ques, especially during football seasons. The last few years Charlene had health problems that limited her ability to get out and about to do the things that she loved, such as, trips to Home Depot to buy flowers or gardening supplies. She also loved animals and for that reason Scott has requested that in Lieu of flowers that donations be made to SPARC, Santa Paula Animal Rescue Center. Checks can be mailed directly to them at 705 East Santa Barbara St., Santa Paula, Ca., 93060. Also, there is a website where you can make credit card or pay pal donations.
Join us in saying to her, "May you rest in peace".

Lois Emma Hannah King (1919-2013)

Lois Emma Hannah King, of Fillmore, passed away Saturday, August 24.
She was born to Roy and Sarah Emma Hannah in Oneida, Idaho on April 26, 1919. Lois was the third of four daughters. The family moved to California when she was a toddler. The girls were raised in Culver City, California. Lois met Charles King while in High School. She graduated from Venice High School in 1937, and they married soon after. They had a two year hiatus during World War 2 while Charles served in the Army, travelling to Arkansas. Lois and Charles settled in the San Fernando Valley, where Lois earned her Bachelor Degree at Cal State Northridge in 1959.
Charles and Lois raised three children: Carolyn King McAdam, Charles Burton King Jr., and Robert King. The family enjoyed all types of activities including camping, swimming, Church, music lessons, and travelling.
Lois loved teaching. She taught primary grades for 10-years before retiring. Lois was a faithful Sunday school teacher for decades. After retiring, Lois and Charles moved to Fillmore, where they started the “Joy” Clubs for children in Fillmore and Piru. They were involved in Church, Sunday school, Mission trips, convalescent home, and prison ministries. Lois was a wonderful piano player and loved to play the organ and piano at Church. She also did substitute teaching for Ventura and Fillmore School Districts.
Lois and Charles built their dream house on Foothill Drive where they enjoyed the views of the Santa Clara Valley. Lois had 20 years of wonderful memories at the home. She loved gardening, having parties, sewing and quilting. Lois and Charles travelled, around the United States, Mexico, Canada and their dream trip around the world. She spent time with their grandchildren, camped, and fished.
After Charles passed away in 1992, Lois moved to El Dorado Estates. She loved the social actMties, gardening and swimming at the mobile home park. Because of her outgoing, fun-loving personality, Lois had many friends. More recently, she resided at Orange Blossom Senior Apartments, then Fillmore Convalescent Center. Lois will be greatly missed by her many friends, her three children and their spouses, her eight grandchildren and their spouses, twelve great grandchildren and one great great grandchild.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 31 at 11:00am at Skillin-Carroll Mortuary, 600 Central
Aye, Fillmore CA 93015 (805) 524-0744. A reception will be held afterward at Fillmore Senior Center,
535 Santa Clara Aye, Fillmore CA 93015.

Mildred “Millie” Louise Pierce (1932-2013)

June 8, 1932-August 12, 2013
Millie will be remembered as a loving, caring, outgoing, sassy woman who loved the Lord, her husband, family and friends dearly. She was known for her generous spirit.
Millie loved the outdoors, fishing, camping, horses/animals and socializing which carried over in her in her job with the National Park Service. Earlier in her life Millie had worked over 20 years in performing all aspects of electronic and electromechanical assembly. Millie took pride in her Native American culture and her love of learning. Her latest challenge was with her “Knit-Wit” friends where she learned to knit.
Millie is survived by her devoted husband Salem Pierce of 39 years, daughter Linda Gothard, son Ricky Gothard and daughter-in-law Cindy. She had 8 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.
The family would like to thank her church, friends and devoted Medical staff at St. John’s Pleasant Valley Hosp. in Camarillo for all their continued support.
A service was held on August 18, 2013 at Bardsdale United Methodist Church.

Michael Wayne Henderson (1972-2013)

Michael Wayne Henderson, 40, passed away after a brief illness on August 5, 2013.
Mike was born on August 19, 1972 in Ventura, CA to Larry Henderson and Lizabeth Mistler. Mike will be joining his father, mother, sister, grandfather, aunts and uncles in heaven.
Mike is survived by his sister, Jessica Phillips of Placerville, CA., brother Garrett Henderson of Camino, CA, grandmother Louise Henderson of Fillmore, CA, life partner Cindy Del Lara of Santa Paula, CA., niece Karly Phillips and nephew Rylan Phillips of Placerville, CA. Mike will be remembered by numerous family members and friends.
Mike was a mechanic by trade and could fix anything that came his way. He loved cooking and to BBQ for his family, friends and events. He had a passion for the outdoors and loved to ride his Dune Buggy. His favorite place to vacation with friends was Glamis where it was an annual tradition to spend Thanksgiving.
It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to Mike. He will be remembered for his giant heart, compassionate spirit, and sense of humor, selflessness and generosity.
A Celebration of Life for Mike will be held on Sunday, August 18, 2013 at 2:00pm at Britt Park, 5375 Center Street, Piru, CA.
For map and directions to ceremony location 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 805.229.7054

Timothy MacLean Smith (1956-2013)

Timothy MacLean Smith, 57, died on Saturday, August 3 at 8:00a.m. at UCLA Medical Center from organ failure.
Tim was born in Pomona, California on March 5, 1956 to Bob and Irene Smith. He was the youngest child of 6. Tim graduated from Chino High School in 1974 then attended Moorpark College and transferred to Cal Poly SLO majoring in Industrial Technology and Graphic Communications.
Tim then became an Ojai “Hot Shot” firefighter and worked as a carpenter for many years. Tim, at 43 years old, kept busy working for Fillmore Unified School District as the Director of Maintenance and Operations and held a part time job for the city of Fillmore as a public works inspector. It all stopped in 1999 when Tim had double by-pass heart surgery and synthetic heart valve installed which doctors said he miraculously survived. Tim’s heart complications were a result of his diagnosis of Marfan Syndrome which led to his declined health over the years. Tim had stayed positive and brave through all setbacks and complications he faced up to his death. He continued to amaze doctors with his will to live. He focused on his family and devoting his time and energy in raising his three children. He spent his time helping others in need; delivering bread to the needy and serving at his local church on the worship team. He loved the Lord deeply and showed and shared this love with others around him. Tim will be remembered for his kind and gentle spirit, and a man after God’s own heart.
Beside his devotions, Tim enjoyed playing basketball and volleyball in college. He was an avid sports fan too. Tim also appreciated the arts and was detail oriented in all his endeavors. Tim loved listening to his children play their musical instruments; Asher the guitar and violin, and Ezra the guitar.
Tim is survived by his mother Irene, and siblings Tina, Terry, Tessa, and Tammy; his former wife Cecilia and three children; Asher 21, Ezra 19, and Selah 15. He is preceded in death by his father Bob and brother Tom.
A celebration of Tim’s life will be held at the Foursquare Church in Fillmore, at 324 Sespe Ave., on Saturday, August 24 at 2:00p.m. Condolence cards may be sent to Asher, Ezra, and Selah at 208 Fourth Street, Fillmore, CA 93015. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Tim Smith Fund at Santa Clara Valley Bank, 527 Sespe Ave., Fillmore, CA 93015.

Maria Rosario De La Rosa (Chayo) (1924-2013)

October 6, 1924 – July 30, 2013
Born in Jamay, Jalisco Mexico. To Pedro and Margarita De La Rosa.
Maria was the oldest of 8 children. Preceded in death by her mom and dad, sister Cruz Ramos, brother Alfonso De La Rosa.
Maria is survived by her only son Gama (Dionicia) Aguilar, 3 grandchildren: Joseph (Katie), Vanessa and Raquel Aguilar, 2 great grand children Azaria and Joseph, sister Elisa Magallon, brothers Juan, Martin, Agustin and Gama De La Rosa.
Maria came to the U.S. in 1955, and has lived in Fillmore most of her life. Until recently she, enjoyed taking daily walks. She enjoyed her time in her garden and she was a devote Catholic. She enjoyed conversing with family and friends. Her best times were when the family got together.
The Viewing will be held Thursday, August 8, at 5:30p.m., followed by the Rosary at 7:00p.m. at Skillin Carroll Mortuary in Fillmore, Mass will be Friday August 9 at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Francis Church in Fillmore.
Her family would like to thank the staff of Greenfield Care in Fillmore, and Sherri and Linda from Assisted Hospice for the support and care they provided to Maria.

Darrell Branden Thomas (1937-2013)

Darrell Branden Thomas, age 75, died at his home in Ventura on July 20.
Darrell was born on August 20, 1937 in Glendale. He attended Franklin High School in Los Angeles where he met his future wife Jeannine. They were married in August of 1959 and had 4 children.
Darrell and Jeannine moved their family to Fillmore in 1973 and lived there for 30 years before moving to Ventura.
Darrell was a Los Angeles City Firefighter for 34 years. He retired as a captain in 1996. He loved his life as a firefighter. It allowed him constant opportunity to serve and sacrifice for others, especially the least fortunate in our world.
Though not raised in a Christian home, Darrell was a devout man of God, and student of the bible. His hobby was serving God, and made that his pursuit when not at work. He served as an elder at Fillmore Bible Church, where he served on the Missions Committee for many years. He volunteered at the Ventura County Rescue Mission. He and Jeannine helped with youth mission trips, camps for foster children and in countless other acts, large and small, to make life better for God’s people.
He had a tremendous heart for the homeless, many of whom he knew by name in the neighborhoods near his fire stations. He always gave money to the homeless when they asked, and engaged them in conversation. More than money, he gave them dignity, and evidence of God’s love for all of us.
Darrell loved to travel with Jeannine, especially to beaches in Ventura, Pismo Beach and Hawaii, in pursuit of another sunset to watch while holding her hand.
Darrell was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Pearl Thomas and his brother Phillip Thomas.
Darrell is survived by his wife Jeannine; his daughter Shel of Ventura and her daughter Kylee; his son Mark, his wife Stephenie and their four children, Hannah, Andrew, Emily and Seth -- all of Fillmore; his son Daniel of Portland, OR; and his son Eric, his wife Kathleen and their two children, Zane and Veronica of Florence, KY.
A memorial service will be held at Orchard Community Church, 8180 Telephone Road in Ventura on Saturday August 10 at 2pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to donate to the Ventura County Rescue Mission, the Alzheimer’s Association, or the charity of your choice.

Simon Carrillo (1932-2013)

Simon Carrillo was called home to be with the Lord on Monday, July 8, 2013. We are deeply saddened to announce his passing, but he left us in the comfort of his home, surrounded by family and friends.
Simon (Moni) was born to Encarnacion and Guadalupe Carrillo on January 5, 1932. He was one of five children who were born and raised in Fillmore. Upon graduating from Fillmore High School he joined the US Navy and served his country. Once returning from his service, he furthered his education at Ventura College while attaining his Associates Degree in Horticulture, and later transferred to Fresno State University. Simon returned to plant his roots back in his hometown, dedicating his career in the city of Fillmore. As a carpenter by trade he then began a career working for the City of Fillmore, where he spent the next 28 years officially, but continued to be the “city’s go-to man” throughout his life. During the final years of his career with the city, Simon and his wife pursued their dream and fulfilled their passion for cooking, through opening their own restaurant, Nancy’s Café. As an avid member of the community, Simon has been recognized through the lens of different organizations. Simon and Nancy were the founders of Piru-4H in 1981, he was Mr. Chili-Pepper in 1987, and the Fillmore Grand Marshall in 1992, along with many other accolades. Through Simon’s desire to live an active life, he kept up with his hobbies of fishing, hunting, cooking, farming, building, helping and being known as the handy man of Fillmore. As a man of strong values, he exhibited an immense amount of dignity, knowledge, courage, strength and patience in all that he did, and served as a strong role model for his family. He was a devout Catholic and parishioner of St. Francis of Assisi Church. Above all else, Simon enjoyed sharing these values, stories, lessons and quality time with his family. Every holiday season you would find Simon enjoying time making tamales with friends and family, sharing recipes, and laughter.
Simon is preceded in death by his loving parents Encarnacion and Guadalupe Carrillo, sisters Josephine Ortiz and Helen Romero, and granddaughter Amber Leon. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Carrillo, children Ray (Maria), Simon (Denise), Shannon (Robert), Jonas (Diane), Kelly (Albert), Lisa, Kathryn, Jim, Scott (Amber), 21 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, sister Manuela Carrillo and brother Agapito (Jovita) Carrillo.
Simon will be remembered and greatly missed by his family and friends, remaining forever in our hearts.
A rosary was recited at 7:30p.m., Sunday, July 14 at Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 1048 W. Ventura Street in Fillmore. A Mass of Christian Burial was Celebrated at 9:30a.m., Monday July 15 also at Saint Francis of Assisi Church. Committal & Interment followed at Bardsdale Cemetery.
To sign the family's online guestbook, share stories and post pictures please visit our website: www.santapaulafuneralhome.com and click on Simon's name located below "Recent Obituaries."
Funeral Arrangements are under the direction of the Family Owned & Operated Robert Rey Garcia Jr Funeral Svcs., Santa Paula, CA 805.229.7054.

Gail A. Stoessel (1944-2013)

Gail A. Stoessel – October 9, 1944 – June 12, 2013.

Best known for being an amazing wife, mother, grandmother and friend, Gail Stoessel , passed away on June 12, 2013 due to complications from a stroke, suffered nearly eight years ago.

After 13 years with Pacific Bell, Gail dedicated the remainder of her working years to helping children with special needs through her work with Ahead With Horses and Carousel Ranch.

Gail is survived by her husband of 49 years, Bill; son, Anthony; step-son, Rob and grandsons, Noah and Benjamin. Gail was a “surrogate mom” to Denise, whose children Courtney and Breana consider her their “Grandma Gail”. Gail was the type of person that was always willing to help any way she could. She will be greatly missed and never forgotten.

The family relocated to Fillmore in 1997, moving Coachcraft, their custom car restoration business to the area. Bill and Anthony continue to build/restore classic cars for the motor enthusiasts and run a Collision Center for Ventura County in Fillmore. After six years of in-home care, Gail resided at Fillmore Convalescent Center, where she could be close to her family.

A memorial service will be held at Carousel Ranch, in Agua Dulce, CA on October 6th. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Carousel Ranch. For more information please contact Denise at dtomey2777@aol.com