Shirley Spitler - A Celebration of Life

It is time to celebrate a wonderful life. The life of our Mom, and Granny, Shirley Spitler. When you have had a great life and go to Heaven, as my Mom said, it is a blessing. Shirley Spitler was born May 16th, 1937 in Hollis, Oklahoma. And passed on to Heaven December 29th, 2019 in her home with loved ones around her in Fillmore, Ca. Shirley’s life will be celebrated at Faith Community Church at 355 D St. in Fillmore, Ca. on Saturday, January 18th, 2020 at 11 a.m.
Shirley was born on May 16th, 1937 to Cleo and Oma Lackey in Hollis, Ok. At the age of seven years old Shirley along with her parents, and along with her brother Leon, made the big move to Turlock, Ca. A few years later, sister Linda Kay was born. Shirley graduated from Turlock High School in June of 1955, and three days later married Marion Woods. After our Dad served in the Navy our Mom and Dad went on many adventures in life. One was to Taft, Ca. where their first daughter Denise Woods (Hobbs) was born, and two years later daughter Donneta Woods (Smallwood) was born. The next adventure took Shirley and the family to Fillmore in 1960, and here she was to stay. Son Joe Woods was born in 1961.
Marion and Shirley bought their home that Shirley lived in until her passing in 1965. Shirley’s husband Marion passed away in a car accident on Highway 126 March 11, 1966. After some time Shriley opened a women and children's clothing store in Fillmore called what else… Shirleys! She owned the store until she closed her doors nineteen years later. Shirley married Robert Spitler in 1968 until his passing in January 2008. After Shirley closed her store in Fillmore, she opened a new store in Newbury Park. After seven years she retired, then after the Northridge earthquake, Shirley felt she needed to help the city she loved. Shirley helped the City of Fillmore rebuild. Shirley worked for the City of Fillmore until 2005.
Shirley loved her family. Daughters Denise Hobbs, Donneta Smallwood, Son in law David Smallwood, Son Joe Woods, Daughter in law Judy Fairall-Woods. Grandchildren Shane Woods (Wife Alma), Jeremy Hobbs, Alyssa Aguilar (Partner Anthony), Robbie Aguilar (Partner Brianna), J.D. Smallwood, Joey Woods, Westley Fairall, Sarah Woods, Jake Woods (Fiance Emma), Mahalia Woods, Hannah Fairall. Great Grandchildren, Haley Woods, Landon Woods, Sarah Hobbs, Glen Hobbs, A.J. Mayfield. Kiki Aguilar, Janelle McCall, and Baby Girl Woods due in May. Her beloved Sister Linda Kay D’Agostano and a wonderful extended family.
Shirley follows to Heaven her Husband Marion Woods, Mother Oma Lackey, Father Cleo Lackey, Husband Robert Spitler, Brother Leon Lackey, and many more family members and loved ones.
Donneta and I would like to say thank you all for the cards and calls. We would like to thank Vitas Hospice. A huge thank you to Nurses Michael and Sarah. We would like to ask you in lew of Flowers, please donate to Vitas Hospice in the name of Shirley Spitler.
Our Granny will always live in our hearts. She was a strong woman who got the most out of life, no matter what life brought her. Shirley Spitler touched many people in her life. We thank God for the time we had with her. Right now she is dancing beautifully in Heaven, when she had no rhythm on earth. She is singing beautifully in Heaven, when she could not carry a tune on earth. She is now able to hear out of both ears in Heaven, when she could not on earth. Our Granny is in Heaven and that is a blessing, just like she was a blessing to us on earth.

Eddie Davis

“Thank You Lord for Another Beautiful Day!” “Yes Cerritos!” “Okie Dokie” “Good Deal!” “Viva Los Doyers!” “Speedy Gonzales!” “I was born at night but not last night!” “Momma didn’t raise no fool!” “10-4!” “1-2-3 duh!” “Mercy!” “Oh mylanta!” “Oh my Gatos!” “Provecho!” “Momma!” “Sweetness!” These are just a few sayings that Eddie would say!
In 1969 the first man ever walked on the moon, that same year Adrian & Madeline Davis welcomed their first child a baby boy Adrian (Eddie) Paul Davis Jr. into the world.
For 8 years it was just the three of them. Then Madeline was expecting another child, when Eddie was asked what he wanted a brother or sister his reply was that he wanted a monkey. Two sisters later he was a fun, loving protective big brother! As a child Eddie was calm, free spirited, easy going and a jokester.
Eddie’s first job as a young teenager was a paper boy - every weekday after school he would fold the newspapers with help from Nana & Tata Davis he hopped on his bike he and go make his deliveries. He took great pride in doing so. Eddie loved and enjoyed playing outdoors with all his cousins, which I was told by his cousin Baby Joe, he remembers going to visit his nana and tatas out at Rancho Sespe. They gathered up oranges and threw them at semi trucks passing by they never told that to anyone, when mom (Madeline) noticed it, they just glanced over at one another. Eddie liked the fishing and camping trips he took with his uncles and also loved spending the night with his Nina Ruby, as he would be there often.
As Eddie got older his high school years he really made a mark on the class of ’87, he had so many friends and people he touched in little and big ways, his character was one of a kind, so special, social butterfly. His classmates recognized this early on and he gained the nick name “Gumball!” He filled his pocket with gumballs and the name would stick with him for the rest of his life.
In 1990 Eddie met Marina whom became his wife in 1991 they as a couple had daughters Candace and Alle, and son Jordan our family was now complete. Eddie was a loving husband, father, provider, hard worker, devoted, selfless, our rock and strength for all the years to come. On August 17th 2019 we celebrated our 28th wedding anniversary.
Dad loved us from day 1 as a young man he was ready to give us his all and that’s exactly what he did everyday since we were in our diaper days to guiding us through growing up. It couldn’t have been done without him there. We have countless memories of laughs, fights, parties and holidays that we’ll never forget. One memory out of many we have was a birthday party we had a sleepover and he passed out drunk in the living room so we decided to put some makeup on him and paint his nails and toe nails. He woke up and we ran away laughing, he loved keeping us entertained and making sure we had our fun and had good birthdays. Like mom said he was our rock, our warrior, our selfless and loving Dad that will forever be in our hearts.
Eddie is survived by his loving wife Marina, daughters Candace and Alle (Art), son Jordan (Courtney), grandkids Isabella, Martin, Audrina, Gaby, Caleb, Aaliyah, Ava, Angela, Destiny, Mya and Mika. He is also survived by his father Adrian, sisters Debbie (Marcelo) and Valerie (Pal Larry) and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and countless cousins.
We find comfort in knowing that Eddie is now in the loving arms of his mother Madeline.
Services will be held at Bardsdale Cemetery January 17th at 12pm 1698 S. Sespe Rd. Fillmore Ca 93015.

Sina Darsha Murphy

Our Mother Sina Darsha Murphy passed to God on Sunday the 8th in the early morning. After missing her husband Charles Murphy, she is now reunited with him, and at peace. We miss her dearly, and will be with her again one day, as she smiles to us waiting in heaven. Her heart stopped and the good Lord took her. She will be cremated, anyone is more than welcome to come and pay their respects to us out on Grand. We love you Momma.

Freddie Franklin Vest (1941-2020)

Freddie F. Vest, age 78, of Fillmore passed away peacefully at home on December 16th, 2019.
Mr. Vest was born May 17th, 1941, in Birmingham, Alabama to Marlon Eugene and Bertha Lee (walker) Vest. He was a longtime resident of Fillmore, Ca. He served in the U.S. Army, following his discharge from the army he worked for Fillmore /Piru citrus, Hardison Ranch as a truck driver Hauling citrus for several years and worked as a roustabout Forman in the oil fields until his retirement.
He enjoyed watching western movies, reading western books, Baseball-loved his Dodgers, hunting, gardening, but his passion was fishing. He loved spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren and Family. He was an Auxiliary Volunteer at the Fillmore convalescent center and volunteered his time at the local food share. He was a loving Father and will be deeply missed by all Family and friends.
He preceded in death by his wife Mary Katherine Vest, daughter Sheila Ann Vest, Father Marlon Vest, mother Bertha Taylor, sister Pauline Massingale, sister Janie Webster, brother Roy Taylor and brother David Taylor.
He is survived by his sons Kenny Vest, Freddy Jr. (Christine) Vest, granddaughter, Toni (Ilyes) Gousasmia, grandsons Michael (Danielle) Alcantar, Mark (Chella) Alcantar and Isaac Montoya. Along with numerous nieces and nephews. Siblings; James (Sherie) Vest, Kennie Vest Sr., Alma Taylor, Nancy (Keith) Cottrell and Betty Miller.
Funeral Services will be held on December 27th, 2019, at Funeraria Del Angel in Santa Paula, 128 South Eighth Street Santa Paula. Viewing from 8 A.M.-10 A.M. funeral services 10 A.M-11 A.M.

Guadalupe “Lupe” Ponce (2019)

Guadalupe “Lupe” Ponce, age 89, passed peacefully on Thursday, November 28th in Piru. A long-time resident of both the Piru and Fillmore communities, her loving home was always a place of sanctuary for the many family members and friends that would frequent an opportunity to indulge in her delicious home cooking, or to savor the warm comfort of her empathic conversation. A devout Catholic, she spent her life devoted to her faith and was very proud to be in the service of the community when called upon.
A friend to many in the community, it was nearly impossible to travel in or around Piru and Fillmore without her finding someone she’d known for years. If she didn’t know you, or you were meeting her for the first time, chances are you would remind her of someone she knew or knows, and eventually you’d find yourself knowing her for years to come as a result of the ensuing conversation and developing friendship. Such was her knack for conversation, yet it was marked by perhaps one of her greatest qualities: her sincerity.
She cared deeply for all whom she called “family” or “friend” and was a constant source of guidance and support when needed. Lupe was blessed to have enjoyed four generations of her family. She was a loving wife and sister, a beloved mother of three sons and one daughter, a grandmother and a great-grandmother.
Funeral Services will begin first with the recitation of the rosary followed immediately with a Funeral Mass at 9am, December 13, 2019 at San Salvador Mission Parish in Piru with Father Barney Gatlin Officiating. Committal & Inurnment will then follow at Piru Cemetery District.
For map and directions to ceremony locations and to sign the family's online guest book, share stories, post pictures and video clips please visit our website: www.santapaulafuneralhome.com and click on Lupe' name located under Recent Obituaries.
Funeral Arrangements are under the direction of the Family Owned & Operated ROBERT REY GARCIA JR FUNERAL SERVICES, Santa Paula, CA 805.229.7054

David S. (Rigo) Urrea (1929-2019)

Fillmore – David S. Urrea passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Saturday, October 19, 2019 in Fontana, California. David was born in Zacatecas, Mexico on July 5, 1929. He was 90 years old and was the first of seven children born to Refugio and Jose Garcia.
David immigrated to California from Mexico at the age of 17 making Fillmore his home for many years. David was a Korean War veteran who served in the U.S. Army on the defensive line known as the Pusan Perimeter. He was proud to be a US Citizen and even more proud to serve this country.
David worked in the fields as a young immigrant before enlisting in the army and later worked in construction. He was employed by Steve P Rados Operators Engineers, for over 40 years. He was an extremely hard worker, leading to his appointment as superintendent and was a member of the Operating Engineers Union.
David was an avid hunter and angler. He love hunting with longtime Fillmore friends- Max, Goody and Simon. He especially enjoyed fishing with his grandson Mercy as well as other family and friends in Baja California. Spending time with family and friends brought much joy to him in his later years. He enjoyed cooking and tending to his garden. He especially loved spending time with his children & Grandchildren.
David was proceeded in death by his son, David Michael Urrea. His daughters, Carol Wright (husband Kieran), Tricia Gradias (husband Bob) Son, Joey Urrea, Grandchildren, Mercy (Delilah) Urrea, Amber (Ryan) Kehoe, Davina (Mike) Arias, Daniel Gradias and Jeffrey Urrea, survive David. He is also survived Brother Jose (Norma) Urrea, and Sister Gloria (Roberto) Valenzuela as well as by many great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews and dear friends he made during his lifetime.
A private burial and celebration of his life will take place at sea.

Irene Garcia Ponce (1943-2019)

Irene Garcia Ponce 76 of Fillmore passed away peacefully on November 16, 2019 at home.
Irene was born on July 3, 1943 in Fillmore to Cipriano and Soledad Garcia. She was one of 11 children. She graduated from Fillmore High School in 1962. Irene married Adolfo Ponce Sr. in August of 1966. They had 4 children and 2 stepchildren.
Irene loved to oil paint, bake cakes and holiday treats. She was very creative, artist and enjoyed raising birds and fish.
Irene is preceded in death by her husband Adolfo Sr, 2 brothers Ygnacio and Johnny, 1 sister Esther, children Adolfo Jr, Steven, Manuel, Angelica and 2 stepchildren Maribel and Danny. 26 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.
Funeral Services as Followed:
*Viewing: 5-9 pm
*Rosary: 7 pm
At Perez Family Funeral Home, 600 N. Central Ave, Fillmore, Ca. 93015.
*Mass: 10 am at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church 1048 Ventura St, Fillmore, Ca. 93015
Burial to follow at Bardsdale Cemetery at 1698 S. Sespe St, Fillmore, Ca.

Holly Mechele Hight (1965-2019)

Holly Mechele Hight, age 53, passed away in her hometown of Fillmore, California, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was at home surrounded by her family and pets where she could look out her many windows at the trees and flowers in the yard and watch the hummingbirds visit the feeder outside her porch.
Holly was born on December 20, 1965, at Santa Paula Hospital. She was a special child who remained at home with her mother her entire life, although she attended various school programs and made friends that she loved dearly. Most recently, Holly attended Santa Paula Arc, where she adored the many teachers that worked with her and all her friends on a daily basis. Her favorite things in life were her family, her dogs Bruno and Brix, her school and all holidays, especially Christmas. Every year, Holly looked forward to her December birthday with great anticipation. She also looked forward to wearing one of her many Christmas sweaters and socks in anticipation of the arrival of Santa Claus.
Although Holly was a feisty girl, she had a tender side laced with love, compassion and generosity. She was an innocent child whose essence transmuted into adulthood and whose presence communicated rare and valuable life lessons to those fortunate enough to know her. Her life challenges were numerous, but her own toughness and the love and support of her family and friends eased her path and her unique presence enriched their lives in turn.
Holly is survived by her mother and stepfather, Sue Maynard and Garland Maynard of Fillmore; her brother Patrick Maynard of Fillmore; her sister Kellie Hight Warriner of Ojai; her brothers Justin and Sean Hight of Ventura; her niece Caitlin Slay Phillip and her husband Ryan Phillip and their son, her nephew Elwood Phillip of Los Osos; her uncle Joe Stroud of Ventura; her aunt Gail Vest Wade of Bolivar, MO; and her beloved dogs Bruno and Brix. She was preceded in death this year by her father, Bud Hight, of Ventura, and in years past by her baby brother, Aaron Paul Maynard of Fillmore, and her grandparents Donald and Idotha Vest, both of Bolivar, MO.
Special thanks to the entire team of guardian angels from the Arc if Santa Paula for their years of support, love and dedication they shared with Holly. You are a wonderful organization and we greatly appreciate everything you did for Holly and for our family.
Memorial services will be held Saturday, November 23, 2019 at 11:00am at the Bardsdale Cemetery in the City of Fillmore.

Floyd Charles Lowe

Floyd Charles Lowe, age 89, a former long term resident of Fillmore, CA died peacefully with his wife by his side, on October 31st, 2019. He was lovingly referred to as Bud or Bubba by all who knew him.
Bud joined The United States Navy at the young age of 17 where he proudly served his country from 1947 to 1951 fighting in the Korean War. Soon after the navy, he met and fell in love with Marlene Dortha Snow and married her in holy matrimony on July 26th, 1952. Bud and Marlene started their lives off together by first purchasing land and building their home in Fillmore, CA. They soon welcomed their beloved son, Jeff, into the world and he filled their hearts and home with love. Soon after, they built their heavy equipment company from the ground up and proudly called it Lowe Construction. Bud was a hard working and successful business owner and a proud member of the Operating Engineers Union. Bud was a generous and caring man. He always tried to make an effort to share his knowledge and resources with others' in hopes that it would assist in advancing their personal and/or professional goals. Bud was very active in the Fillmore community where his passion shone through the most in the Fillmore Historical Museum. He also had a great passion for the efforts of the Free Mason Society.
Bud leaves behind his wife, Marlene Lowe of 67 years, his Grandchildren, Great Grandchildren, as well as many other family members and friends. He has joined his Parents, beloved Son, and Great Grandson in Heaven.
Services will be held on Monday, November 25th at 11am, located at Bardsdale Cemetery. All is welcome.

Jo Ann Dunehew (1941-2019)

Jo Ann Dunehew was born on, August 7, 1941 in Missouri, and passed away on Nov 7, 2019; In Ventura CA.
Jo Ann was a lifetime resident of Ventura County, she grew up on Rancho Sespe just west of Fillmore.
1960 was a big year for Jo Ann; she graduated from Fillmore High School and married Tommy Joe Dunehew in the same year. She spent her career working at the packing house on 3rd St. in North Fillmore. She retired in 2012, after 45 years. She was an incredible wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.
She is preceded in death by her Father, Omer Townsend, Mother, Mary Townsend and brother Burl Townsend.
She is survived by her Husband, Tom Dunehew Sr.; and 3 Sons: Tom (Marisela) Dunehew Jr, Don (Patricia) Dunehew and Richard Townsend.
She is also survived by 12 Grandchildren and 9 Great Grandchildren.
She will be dearly missed by all.
Funeral Services for Jo Ann will be held on Wednesday, November 20, 2019 starting with a Viewing at 4:00pm at Funeraria Del Angel Santa Paula, located at 128 S. 8th St in Santa Paula, followed by a Memorial Service on Thursday, Nov 21, 2019 at 10:00am at Funeraria Del Angel Santa Paula. Graveside Services will immediately follow at 11:30am at Bardsdale Cemetery, 1698 S Sespe St, in Fillmore.

Raymond Dressler (1927-2019)

It is with sadness the family of Raymond Leroy Dressler announces his passing on October 17, 2019 in Fillmore, California, due to dementia, heart and pulmonary failure. Ray leaves behind his wife Judy, of 42 years, son Dean Dressler, daughter Donna Furlong, stepson Paul (Sandra) Scholz and stepdaughter Kristen (Bob) Cumby. Ray is also survived by his grandchildren Melissa, Eric, Lauren, Danielle, Kevin, Walker and Madison; great grandchildren, James, Leon and Jack.
Ray was born in Chicago, Illinois on March 27, 1927. His parents were Arthur and Cecelia. He served faithfully in the Marines during World War II. In his early 20’s, Ray moved the family from Chicago to Torrance, California where his family was raised. He enjoyed spending time with family, attending sport and school events. Ray enjoyed a long and successful career in the aerospace industry. He was a loving and successful father and husband. He was known as a kind man by all who ever met him.
During his residence in Fillmore, Ray enjoyed the time he served on the City Planning Commission and on the Fillmore City Council, participating in many city events. He was a familiar figure for many years on his daily walks through town with Judy.
His family celebrates his life and their fond, happy memories of him. A “Celebration of Life” is scheduled at a later date for family and friends to remember him.

Margaret Hackney Haskell (1925-2019)

Margaret Hackney Haskell was born January 10, 1925 in Redlands, California and passed away October 5, 2019 in Fillmore, California. Her parents were Paul and Florence Hackney. When Margaret was a toddler her family moved to Piru where Paul went to work on the Newhall Ranch as a farm superintendent. Five years later her brother, Richard was born. Margaret attended Piru Elementary and Fillmore High School where she excelled in academics and competed in various sports. Her passions were tennis and badminton. Upon graduation in 1942, she entered USC where she majored in physical education and earned her teaching credential. When William S. Hart High opened its doors in Newhall she was among the founding faculty and taught there, on and off, for the next thirty years.
In July of 1947 Margaret married the love of her life, Sam Haskell, a farmer from Saugus. They had two children, Christine and Steve. Raising an active family and teaching during the 50's and early 60's was demanding but rewarding. Margaret volunteered in Campfire Girls, Boy Scouts, Little League and 4-H. Always active in her church, she served as deacon, elder and president of the women's society. And Sam and Margaret loved to square dance.
When she and Sam both retired they moved to Fillmore. Margaret continued her church activities as well as joining Ebell, playing bridge, volunteering for the Fillmore High School Alumni Association and being a grandmother. Margaret continued to lead a very busy family and social life well into her nineties.
She is preceded in death by Sam, her husband of 49 years. She is survived by her brother, Richard; her children Christine and Ernie Villegas; Steve and Laura Haskell; her grandchildren Steve and Alicia Villegas; Brian and Candice Villegas; Tim and Tiffany Villegas; Alexandra Haskell and James Tomasick Sr., Caitlin Haskell and Blake Corbin; great-grandchildren Victoria, Bella, Sofia, Brian Jr., Vincent, Giada, Ariana, Alaina, Troy, Joey and James Jr.
There will be a private internment service at the Bardsdale Cemetery and a memorial service to be announced. In lieu of flowers you may honor Margaret with a donation to the Fillmore High School Alumni Association.

John Leslie Ohngren, III (1948-2019)

Johnny “O” as he was known, grew up in the San Fernando Valley in the days when you played outside until dark, did your chores, worked hard in school and made the best of every situation. He was an outstanding high school baseball player and played on the first instructional farm team of the San Francisco Giants. All of that was interrupted by the call from Uncle Sam. As a member of the 25th Tropic Light Infantry Division, U.S. Army, he served in Viet Nam in 1968-1969, and survived the second Tet Offensive attack at Cu Chi.
After the military he married and had one child, his beloved Nikki Scott, (husband Tom Scott). Nikki is mom to “Papa’s” amazing grandkids, Sarah and Trevor Scott.
John enjoyed a successful career in manufacturing sales and earned many sales achievement awards.
He was the funniest one in the family and we can all tell stories of his famous or infamous pranks! His kind heart and sense of humor will be greatly missed by Nikki, Tom, Sarah, and Trevor. He also leaves behind loving sisters Jan (Dave Paris) and Linda (Gary Sewall), brother Ron (Setsuko Yoncich) and his darling mother Geri Pobjoy. He will be forever in the hearts of nieces and nephews, Fred, Kristen, Joe, Mike, Kenny, Raymond, and Sylvia. A Family memorial will be held at a later date.

David Nyland Smith (1962-2019)

David Nyland Smith, 57, of Santa Paula, California, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, September 17, 2019 surrounded by his wife, children, and family.
His Celebration of Life memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, October 12, 2019 at Catalyst Church, at 241 North Mill Street, Santa Paula (the corner of Mill and Santa Paula Streets.) The community, family, and friends are encouraged to attend.
David was born January 13, 1962 to Paul James and Laura (Nyland) Smith in Hennepin, Minnesota, the fifth child and first son of eight children. The family moved from Minnesota to Santa Paula, California in 1967. He graduated from Santa Paula High School in 1980. In 1989, David met Michelle Horne, his beautiful bride and wife of 30 years, and the two were married in Santa Paula, California on October 28, 1989. Together, they raised three phenomenal children.
David is survived by his loving wife Michelle; son Talon Smith; daughters Miranda Smith and Camille (Kevin Aten) Smith; his mother Laura Caroline (Nyland) Smith, brother James Paul (Melissa) Smith; sisters Sheila (Gary Goff) Lawrence, Brenda (Tim) Woodward, Juliann Smith, Cynthia (Jim) Price, Jennifer (Augie) Reyes, and Andrea Hurtado; nieces Daisha, Jerica, Hannah, Megan, Maggie, Olivia, Racheal, Brittney (son Brenden), and Haley; nephews Sam, Jake, Dexter, Mackenzie, Nathan, Roberto, Jason, Kenny, Mark and Aaron, and numerous cousins, aunts and uncles and extended family. David was preceded in death by his son Justin Allen, his father Paul James, his niece Ashley, and father in law Billy Joe Horne. David was a loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend to everyone.
David loved spending time with his wife and children, dogs Buddy and Zoey, close family, neighbors, and friends. He loved camping, gardening and all things "Star Wars". David worked offshore in the oil industry for 23 years. He always spoke dotingly of his time as a 'roughneck' on the offshore oil platforms. He also worked at Ameron in Fillmore, but he was forced to give up the careers he loved due to injury. As a retiree, he spent his free time loving and helping his family, volunteering, raising roses, gardening, helping his sister Andi care for their mom, watching various sports, sci-fi movies and was an avid reader.
An eternally present and supportive father, he was very active in the lives of his children. He attended nearly every Santa Paula High School football game. He was present for every pig weigh-in and Ventura County Fair livestock show during the FFA pig raising years, and was the farm dad to everyone. He lived life as a professional volunteer, giving a helping hand to whoever needed it.
His wife Michelle is devastated by the sudden death of the love of her life, her most loyal and affectionate partner in life. Looking back at their sweet love story, Michelle said, “He always encouraged me that things are not always as bad as they seemed. When I wanted to give up or said I couldn't do something, David would always remind me of all the things I have accomplished.” She continues to cherish the mundane memories in detail: “I’m going to miss his spilled coffee on the counter every morning and the black Spider-Man mug sitting in the sink, coffee in bed every morning, and the hot lunch sitting on the table everyday when I came home for lunch.”
David’s brother and sisters are shocked by their brother’s sudden passing, as it occurred far too soon. They are all gathering together this week in Santa Paula and extend their gratitude to everyone for their love and concern, especially for his wife and children.
Juliann Smith, first editor of the Fillmore Gazette and Fillmore Outlook and one of David’s six sisters remembers her brother fondly, “With his gentle spirit and strength of character, huge hands and big heart, David was loved and respected by all in our family and all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.”
The family would like to give a special thank you to the nurses and doctors at Community Memorial Hospital in Ventura for their loving care and support during his final days.
The family would also like to extend their sincerest gratitude to all friends, family, and those at Catalyst Church for being very accommodating and understanding during this difficult time.
Following the Celebration Of Life Memorial Service on Saturday, October 12, 2019 there will be a potluck reception in the dining /reception hall at Catalyst immediately following the service. Those wanting to donate finger-foods can drop off at the church kitchen before or immediately after service. Those wishing to sign the guest book and share memories may do so that day or by visiting the memorial website created in honor of David at: https://everloved.com/life-of/david-smith

Steven Douglas Weeks (1950-2019)

It is with great sadness the family of Steven Douglas Weeks announces his passing on September 29, 2019 in Templeton, California due to complications of Frontal Temporal Dementia (FTD). The family rejoices that Steve is now free of pain and is with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Steve leaves behind his wife of 49 years, Denise, and his children: Robert Weeks (Jennifer) of Chicago, IL.); Ryan Weeks (Tara) of Ventura CA; Ashlee Loughran (Garrett) of San Luis Obispo CA; and Brett Weeks (Ellie) of Los Angeles CA. Steve is also survived by his grandchildren Kathryn Weeks, Addison Weeks, Ty Weeks, Parker Loughran, Hudson Loughran, and Elle Loughran.
Steve was born March 11, 1950 in Fillmore, California, the son of Jack and Patricia Weeks, where he graduated from Fillmore High School, and also met the love of his life, Denise Smith. He went on to graduate with a degree in criminal justice from CSU Long Beach before beginning his law enforcement career as a Ventura County Sheriff Deputy and then as an officer with Ventura Police Department. He later followed his love of cars and began working in the car industry, and worked at Smith Volvo beginning in 1989 until his retirement.
Steve enjoyed spending time with his family, attending the sporting events of his children and grandchildren, “cowboy shooting” with SASS, and making his special “apple pie” to share with his friends. He is well known for being outgoing, happy, and kind by all who ever met him, and relished his title as “Unofficial Mayor of San Luis Obispo”—a testament to the vast number of people he met and befriended during his time there. He will be missed by all who knew him. His family celebrates his life and their fond memories of him, and will continue to honor him by actively assisting in medical research to eradicate the disease that took him from them too soon.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 12, 2019 at Mountainbrook Church in San Luis Obispo.

Pat Platt was born April 21, 1935 in Fillmore, California to Bertha May Brown and Charles R. Platt I. On September 3, 2019 he passed away after suffering from Alzheimers the past five years. He was the youngest of 6 children, Don, Virgil and Eula Smith and Mildred and Doris Platt all of whom predeceased him. Pat grew up in Fillmore graduating from Fillmore High in 1953. During his high school years he excelled in Baseball, Football and Basketball.
After high school Pat signed with the Pittsburg Pirates and played in their minor leagues. He eventually moved to San Jose where he graduated from San Jose State University. After graduating he worked for Campbell Union School District and the Santa Clara County Office of Education. He retired as a high school Principal. In 1966 he married Pat Jones. They were married for 54 glorious years and had two children, Michael Platt (Crystal) and Stacey Halkias (Todd). They were the proud grandparents of Dylan, Deryn, Dymon, Alicia, Breanna and Charlie. They had one great grandchild, Cinderella.
A Memorial Service is being held at 10 a.m., Saturday, October 5, 2019 at St. Francis Episcopal Church, 1205 Pine Ave., San Jose, CA 95125.

Dorothy Elaine Krizer (1933-2019)

Dorothy Elaine Krizer, loving Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother and friend of all, was summoned home by the Lord on Sept. 24th, 2019, surrounded by her children. Dorothy left in anticipation of reuniting with her husband Ron and the others who preceded her to the other side of this life.
Dorothy Elain Sriver-Krizer was born in Ottumwa, Iowa, the daughter of Charles Sriver, an engineer who drove trains for the Burlington Railroad including the Denver Zephyre, and Marie Baumgartner Sriver. A granddaughter of Swiss immigrants on one side, she was also a G-G-Grandaughter of early English colonists, whose descendants supported the Revolution and fought the British at Bunker Hill making her a Daughter of the Revolution. She attended Ottumwa High School growing up in a large family, and participated in many school activities like choral singing and serving in various clubs. In Ottumwa she met her best friend and love of her life, and during the Korean War married Ron Krizer and started life together with him in the US Air Force, deploying to Eilson Air Force Base in Fairbanks, Alaska.
Dorothy and Ron had three children, each born in a different state, as she accompanied her husband following work in the booming aerospace industry. Son Mark Douglas was born in Alaska in the Air Force, daughter Rhonda Dianne was born in Denver, and finally Curtis James was born in Anaheim, CA after they had migrated their way out to the west coast where she told her children Ron had convinced her to move after bringing her fresh roses and orange blossoms from business trips in California to Denver in the dead of winter. In 1969 her family left for two years to serve in the mission field in Kingston, Jamaica, returning to Anaheim for several years before moving to beautiful Fillmore, CA, in 1975. Dorothy and Ron where constantly going, and loved to travel and share the world all around them, both local and distant, with their children. She loved Ron and her children deeply, and would later say “I’d follow that man anywhere in this world!”
Known as “Dot” by her close family and friends and “Gramma Dot” by her grandchildren, Dorothy loved the Lord, her family and friends, flowers, art, music, singing, traveling, CHOCOLATE, and parties! Her beautiful smile and sunny, spunky disposition lit up a room, and her positive, uplifting spirit-led attitude was an example of Christian living, salt and light, to those she encountered. She was gifted with a natural ease, and even zen-like child-psychology ability that would sometimes amaze those around her, particularly her own children. Serving together with her husband in life, and Christian ministries in the USA, Jamaica, and even down to Columbia and Peru, she served in various Ladies Bible Classes, church events, and Childrens Bible Classes where she cemented her memory as a great teacher that would use chemistry experiments, magic tricks and various memorable instructor demonstrations, finished off by taking her class on a trip to somewhere fun like Magic Mountain or a pool party in her backyard!
Dorothy went to Business College as a young woman, but always had a gift and appreciation for art, and over time became a professional artist who developed a successful architectural rendering business. She learned how to make and decorate professional level cakes and wedding cakes, served as a Girl Scout leader, served Associated Women of Pepperdine (AWP), and set an example of a constantly learning, serving, and continuously growing life. When her own kids grew up, she volunteered to help people read, and became a care taker for two of her own parents and family who became ill, and took art classes at VC.
She taught her children to love God, and to look at the inside of people rather than their outside. A Midwestern girl, she loved basketball, and became a big LA Lakers fan. She had a love and appreciation for paintings, design, sculptor and architecture, museums, history, and Gods natural beauty. She saw and lived in many beautiful places in the world, and touched people wherever she went with her humor and joyful spirit. Later in life she was able to go to Italy and Switzerland, and to see the homelands of her forefathers in the Alps. Overwhelmed by the beauty, she and broke out singing a verse of “How Great Thou Art” on the train, entertaining her family who was with her there. We trust she is, incomprehensively, in an even more beautiful place now.
Dorothy is survived by her children Rhonda (Krizer) and Larry Fisk of Fillmore/Indio, Curtis Krizer of Fillmore, and Mark and Sue Krizer in Alaska, as well as grandchildren Matthew Krizer in California, Rebbeca (Krizer) and Nate Morrison of Richmond, VA, Kerri (Krizer) and Aaron Base in Sacile, Italy, Carli Krizer of Fillmore, Brandon and Holley Fisk of Anchorage, AL, Jonathon Fisk of Fillmore, and Great Grandchildren Alana and Dracen Morrison, and Jonah and Milo Fisk.
A celebration of Dots life will be held at the Fillmore Church of Christ on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019 at 12:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to SOS Childrens Villages (orphans), or the Alzheimers Association. Dorothy will be missed by all she knew her, but encouraged by the joy and positive example she left behind.

Juana Viramontes (1949-2019)

Juana Viramontes was born on May 13, 1949 to Salomon and Eloisa Barajas. On September 1, 2019, she passed away at the age of 70, after being involved in a car accident a few months earlier. She fought hard until the end.
Juana was dedicated to loving and caring for her family. She always put her children first as they were most important to her. She also treasured her six grandchildren and embraced every moment she spent with them. They were her pride and joy.
One of her other passions was tending to her garden. She enjoyed spending time there and watering and trimming her plants.
Juana is survived by her husband, Remberto, son, Beto and daughter, Xochitl (Jovani) Carrillo, grandchildren, Angel, Alejandra, Samantha Viramontes, and Dillan, Delylah, and Diego Carrillo. She is also survived by her siblings, Angel, Maria Elena, Margarita, Pedro, Evaristo, Jose Luis and Ricardo and numerous nieces and nephews.
Juana was preceded in death by her parents Salomon and Eloisa Barajas.
Juana will be greatly missed by her family and friends whom she loved and touched deeply.

Michael Thomas Alamillo (1975-2019)

Michael Thomas Alamillo, otherwise known by all as “T-Bird,” was born on March 18, 1975, in Ventura, California. He was raised in Fillmore California by his beloved parents Thomas Riesgo Alamillo and Melissa Lu Matthews Alamillo. On the evening of August 22, 2019, at the age of 44, T-Bird was surrounded by his family and friends as he spread his wings; one final time, giving heaven an amazing angel. Those who had the pleasure of knowing T-Bird would tell you about his huge heart. T-Bird had the reputation of his father, tough and stubborn, but very passionate about those he loved and what he stood for. Much like his dad, he would take the shirt of his back for someone in need, whether he knew them or not. He was a leader, who marched to the beat of his own drum and was respected for what he stood for. Growing up in a small town where there was divide between the community of “Farm Boys” and “Homies,” T- Bird took what he was taught “treating others as equals,” and with his personality and openness he bridged the gap in the community, bringing all walks of life together for the greater good. T-Bird helped others to see that they were more alike than they were different, and for this he will forever be loved and respected.
While most people never get the chance to figure out their true passion in life, T-Bird knew his love from an early age and chose a career as a Heavy Equipment Operator. He literally knew his way around every tractor he operated. T-Bird always strived to live his life to the fullest. Like his dad, his favorite saying was “thank you Lord for this beautiful day.” He was quite the outdoorsmen, who loved the freedom of the open road, especially on his Harley, “Old Green.” He was an avid hunter, known for his exceptional luck in trout and bass fishing. He was also very competitive when it came to playing horseshoes, shooting pool, and trap shooting, “aiming” to be the best. But of course, we all know, his true calling was singing. T-Bird had a tune for everyone, and every occasion. Whether it was country or hip-hop, when he sang, you felt it to the core.
Even when cancer wore down his body and exhausted his strength, T-Bird would not let it break his spirits. In his competitive nature, he took everything cancer could throw at him and smiled right back in its face. In his fight, he took pain that would have taken down even the toughest of people, continuing to find the necessary energy to face his treatments. His illness could not steal his level of popularity and it could not steal his peace. No one could ever say that he lost his battle with cancer, as it never stood a chance. All the way to his last breath, what was seen was – peace. While T-Bird will be dearly missed, he will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace T-Bird.
T-Bird was preceded in death by his father Thomas Riesgo Alamillo and leaves behind his mother Melissa Lu Matthews Alamillo; siblings Dennis (wife Agnes) Alamillo, Lesley Alamillo, Rachel Alamillo (Cuñao) Larry Tepezano, Bill (wife Erica) Alamillo, Peter (wife Rupa) Torres, Timmy (wife Carrie) Alamillo, and Tami (husband Raphael) Venegas. Nephew and Niece’s: Julie, Missy, Richard, Eddie, Christina, Diane, Moneh, Evan, Della, Tommy and numerous cousins and his “brothers from other mothers.”
On October 5, 2019, there will be a celebration of the life of Michael Thomas Alamillo.
Location: Britt Park, 3824 E. Guiberson Road, Piru, CA.
Time: 12:00 - Noon - 1:00 p.m. - Services.
Food and Reception following services.

Jimmy William Dunehew (1942-2019)

Jimmy William Dunehew went to be with the Lord on July, 28th 2019 at the age of 76. Jimmy passed away in Santa Paula, CA with his family by his side.
Jimmy was born in Tuckerman AR, on December 7th 1942. He was the son of Molly and Presley Dunehew. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Loretta (Rangel) Dunehew. Jimmy and Loretta spent most of their life living in Fillmore where they raised their 7 children, and then moved to Santa Paul 5 years ago to retire.
Jimmy was amazing father and husband. He loved to tell stories about his childhood and tell jokes, just to see you smile. He would give you the shirt off his back and the last dollar in his pocket. He will be missed by everyone that knew and loved him.
Jimmy is survived by his wife Loretta Dunehew, his 8 children and his many grandchildren and great grandchildren.
A “Celebration of life” will be held on Saturday, September 28th, 2019 at 2:00pm at Britt Park in Piru, CA, off of Highway 126. A Potluck luncheon will follow.
A GoFundMe account has been set up under Jimmy Dunehew for donations for his final expenses.