John Roy Perkins (1953-2016)

John Roy Perkins passed away on Thursday, March 17, 2016 in his home town of Fillmore Ca. He was born on July 31, 1953 in the city of Abilene in the great state of Texas. His family later moved to Fillmore when he was 5 years old. Later on in life he met the love of his life Debbie Perkins and soon after married in May 1, 1976. They soon started a family welcoming a daughter Courtney in 1981 and a son Kiel in 1982. At the age of 62 he was still doing what he loved working as an Electrical Contractor. He was the Vice President of the Fillmore Club and was involved with Fillmore Little League for a number of years. John loved to go hunting, NASCAR, Angels baseball, Lakers basketball, collecting tins and any type of nick-knacks he could get his hands on. He loved his children with all his heart and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.
John was preceded in death by his father B.K. Perkins, mother Maudie Perkins, Brother Joey Perkins, father in law Richard Turk and mother in law Allene Turk. He is survived by his wife Debbie Perkins, daughter Courtney and son Kiel Perkins. His brother Kenneth Perkins (Royetta), brother Larry Perkins, sister Brenda Hawkins, sister Beverly "Stretch" Burhoe, sister Barbara Everette, brother Jimmy Perkins (Pam), bother in law Mike Turk (Jenni), sister in law Susan Leon (Ross Wildman), many nieces and nephews as well as The "FREAKS" and you know who you are!!!
The family will be holding a celebration of his life on Friday, March 25, 2016 at 12 p.m. at their home in Fillmore, Ca. If you have any questions about the location please email his daughter at courtneyjperkins@yahoo.com

Nora Gladys Neal (1917-2016)

Nora Gladys Neal went to her heavenly home on Saturday March 5th, 2016. She was born on March 10th, 1917 in Halfway, Missouri to parents George and Dollie Sullivan. Nora was immersed in a Christian community from the time she was young, and accepted Jesus personally when she was only seven years old. She had what some would describe as a “simple faith”. She loved Jesus Christ, sought to know him more throughout her life, and loved others more because of it. She remained a faithful servant of the Lord, and to cite one of her favorite hymns, would say “I will cling to the old rugged cross”.
Nora was blessed to have a large loving family. She married Charley “Chick” Neal on August 27th, 1937 in Bolivar, Missouri. Nora was a devoted mother and has always had a passion to care for her family. Her family adored her, and she will be sorely missed by many. Her legacy is her family that were all brought closer together because of her love and compassion.
She is preceded in death by her husband Charles, in 1992; a son, Bobby, in 1993; and a son, Orville, in 2004.
She is survived by her son Charles; four siblings, Hazel, John L., Ernie and Vernie; seven grandchildren, Dana, Kimberly, Eric, Russell, Cindy, Richard and Ronald; and fourteen great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at the Bardsdale Cemetery, 2pm Friday March 18th, 2016. Friends are welcome.

Ramon Meza (1947-2016)

Remembering Ramon Meza
Long-time Fillmore resident, Ramon Meza peacefully entered into the arms of the Lord on March 7, at the age of 68.
He was born on September 28, 1947, in Tijuana, Mexico, the son of the late Maria and Dionicio Meza. He was the fifth of nine children. His father was a farm worker and his mother a homemaker. The family immigrated to the United States on July 4, 1964.
The family settled in the agriculturally rich community of Fillmore. Ramon began his tenure with Fillmore-Piru Citrus in 1964 working in a myriad of capacities, ultimately serving as the assistant field manager until 1997. Subsequently, Ramon entered into business and started a farm labor contractor company, Santa Clara Farm Service.
In early 1970 Ramon met Kathy Muñoz. They fell in love and married in August of the same year. His joy with Kathy and his pride in his son, Raymond, and his daughter, Lydia, made his life more complete. He became a U.S. citizen in 1992, another proud moment in his life.
Ramon made a decision to accept Christ in October 1991. He was a member of Faith Community Church.
He was an adventurer and loved to travel. Together with his wife he traveled to many foreign ports by cruise ship. After retiring, he also enjoyed spending mornings with the coffee club at the Fillmore McDonald’s.
Ramon is survived by his wife of 45 years, Kathy Meza; their two children, Raymond Meza and his wife, Selena, of Somis and Lydia Meza-Magallanes and her husband, Anthony, of Oceanside; and four grandchildren who were the delight of his life.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial service at the Faith Community Church, 416 Central Ave, Fillmore, on Saturday, March 19 at 10 am.
A reception will be held at the church immediately following the service.

Roy Lee Alsup Jr. (1941-2016)

Roy Lee Alsup Jr was born in Temple,Texas, on June 28 1941 to Roy Lee Alsup and Martha Louise ( Barker)and his sister Betty “Brantley” Alsup.was born 3 years later . Roy moved from Texas in 1947 to Santa Paula, where he lived out on Limonera Ranch camp #800. There he grew up and made many life long friends. When he was 17 he enlisted into the United States Navy. While in the Navy he met a beautiful brunette name Peggy Bevill. They married a short time later in 1960. A short time after that they had their first child Roy and 3 years later a daughter Paige. Roy loved being a father so much so that he was baptized in 1967 and gave his life to christ. He knew even as a young man he wanted to raise to his family with God’s help. He and his son were in the “Y” Indian guides and he helped coach his son’s baseball teams all through little league. Roy bought his first home on Pamala Ln in Santa Paula in 1969. That was a vey proud time for Roy, he had been working for Union Oil for many years. He felt God had truly blessed him.
During this time, Roy took his family on many memorable vacations. Many of these were with the Floyd Patterson Family. They took many trips to Bass lake, house boat trips to lake Shasta and lake Powell. Roy and Floyd were more like brothers than friends Floyd “ Captain” and Dad truly enjoyed each other company and they’re families melded well.
In 1976 Roy moved his family to Fillmore. There they became members of the Fillmore Church of Christ, as a member of the church Roy became active as a bus driver in the Joy Bus program. He truly loved driving the Joy Bus. While driving he always greeted the kids with a big hello and bright smile. He would walk down the Bus aisle and shake the change in his pockets when he wanted to get the kids to quiet down, and the most quiet one would get a quarter. Roy many life long friends made many life long friends on the Joy Bus, Kids that are now grown will always remember the Joy Bus days.
Roy continued his career with Union Oil moving up through the ranks with the company from 1981 to 1985 moving around with the company as needed. In 1985 Roy settled back into this Hometown of Santa Paula. Working in Torrey Mountain in Piru and the bridge in Santa Pauala. Roy was known best as to his Union Oil friends as “ B.R.T” better known as Big Roy from Texas. Roy continued working for Union even after the company was sold to Torch.
In 1995 Roy started dating Shirley Logsdon whom he had known for years as the owner of the Pepper Mill and Logsdon’s restaurant. There friendship quickly moved on to much much more. They were married in January 1996 and Roy retired from working in October of that same year. Thus starting an exciting chapter in his life. Roy and Shirely had lots of things in common, one being love or family. Both made a easy transition into each other’s families. Roy loved Shirley’s kids and Grandkids as they were his own and they loved there Papa Roy. They both always wanted to travel and that’s what they did. They took cruises to Mexico, Hawaii, France, Italy, Greece, Crotia, Austrailia, and New Zealand. They also took fishing trips to Alaska, Canada, Austrailia, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua.
Roy always loved to play the 12 string guitar and sing and would play and sing whenever someone asked which usually prompted everybody to join on in. He loved to Country dance, play poker, spend time with his friends and attend church. Roy loved his kids and grandkids the most. He love for his family was unwavering. His grandkids up a spark in his eye. All kids loved Roy because was always a big kid at heart himself.
Roy lee Alsup Jr. passed from this life to join his heavenly father surrounded by his family on March 10th 2016 he was 74 years of age. Roy was preceded in death by his wife Shirley Logsdon Aslup. He is survived by his son Roy and Patty Alsup and his daughter Paige and Sam Bennett. Grandchildren Samuel, Summer, Cameron Bennett. Nathan, Brianna and Trent Alsup and Great Grandson Jacob Lee. Grandchildren Tyler, Dillon, Jordan, Devin and Laney Wagner and Hailey and Zachary McCarthy and Shirley’s children and grandchildren Tom and Bob Wagner, Gawain and Ali Wagner and Ashley and David McCarthy.
A viewing will be held from 6pm to 8 pm on Thursday March 17th 2016 at Skillian/Carrol mortuary at 738 E. Santa Paula st, Santa Paula. We will be celebrating the life of Roy at the Church of Christ 276 West Santa Paula St. Santa Paula. On Friday the 18th of March on Friday at 12 noon. Graveside to follow. A dinner will begin at 3 p.m at the Church of Christ.

Patricia Jean Keneally Baum (1936-2016)

Patricia Jean Keneally Baum departed this life on March 14, 2016 at home of complications from multiple myeloma. She was born in San Francisco, California, July 22, 1936, the first of three children born to Henry and Dorothy Keneally.
She attended university in Arizona and received a BA in Art Education. Her first teaching job was in Morenci, Arizona. She then relocated to Fillmore, CA and taught Art and Special Education classes.
Pat married her soul mate, Stephen Baum, on June 25, 1977, and they spent thirty-seven wonderful years together. They taught together at Fillmore High School and enjoyed many shared interests: comic books, science fiction, opera, and Asian art. They delighted in each other and were as they coined it: two halves of a whole.
She and her husband, Stephen, were honored as the Homecoming Grand Marshalls of the Fillmore High School homecoming parade in 1989.
Patricia was very active at Fillmore High School, teaching special education and independent study. It was known that when Patricia prepared a student for a general education class, the student was more than ready to be a success even away from her tutelage. She was an advocate of students who could not speak for themselves and was a devoted teacher, always available for her “kids” even after their formal education ceased.
She was a proud and devoted member of Native Daughters of the Golden West, a charter member of the Fillmore Piru Environmental League, and a member of both the Fillmore Garden Club and the Ventura Doll Association. She was a bell ringer and played many years in the Bardsdale United Methodist Bell Choir. She was a founding member of a women’s group of twelve ladies who have met monthly for the past twenty-two years. She was a lifelong learner and among her varied interests took a woodshop class to build a grandfather’s clock, learned how to make and repair porcelain dolls, and took a class to build her own computer.
She is survived by her younger brother, Hank Keneally, of Phoenix, Arizona; sister-In-law Shirley Keneally, nephew Jon Ray Keneally, both of Mesa, Arizona; niece, Michelle Keneally Black of Phoenix Arizona; nephew, Brian Keneally of El Cajon, California; brother-in-law, Joseph Baum of Huntington, Indiana, sister-in-law, Dorothy Baum and nephew, David Baum both of Columbus, Ohio. She also leaves her two god-children: Heather Ondersma of Vancouver, Canada, and Christopher Ondersma of Ventura, California.
A special thanks goes to her caregivers: Sherri Cole, Sandy Arzate, and Joseph Zavala, who lovingly cared for her during her last months.
There will be a graveside service at 11:00 am on Monday, March 21st, at Bardsdale Cemetery. Following there will be a 12:00 luncheon in LeBard Hall of the Bardsdale United Methodist Church. Friends are invited to share reminiscences of Patricia’s life.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Patricia K. Baum Memorial Scholarship. Donations may be sent directly to the Fillmore Alumni association, P.O. Box 385, Fillmore, CA 93016. Donations may also be given to ASPCA at: ASPCA Gift Processing Center, P.O. Box 96929, Washington, DC 20077-7127.

Ramon "Monchis" Ponce Jr.

Born on April 19, 1945 and Died on February 10, 2016.
He lost a brief battle with Cancer, in and out of the Hospital, only to return home and it was there he decided to return to the Lord.
Ramon was born to Ramon Ponce Sr. and Sara Ponce in Ensenada, Baja California. In 1972, he settled in Fillmore. He was employed at Robinson and Lamey in Piru and currently, Llamas Plastics in Sylmar. He enjoyed family functions, dancing, watching sports, walking around town, playing poker, and a Cold Beer with a cigarette. Mostly, he loved his Wife of 40 Years, Edith Ponce.
He is preceded in Death by his Parents- Ramon and Sara Ponce; Sister- Carmela Ponce Ortega.
He is survived by his Wife Edith Ponce, Stepchildren- Richard Molina and Krystal Chaney, Grandchildren- Risha, William, and Aubrey; Brothers- Adolfo (Irene), Francisco, Jose (Gloria), Raul (Corina), and Gonzalo; His Sisters- Rosa Huerta (Adolfo), Martha Ponce, and Susana Ponce; Nephews, Nieces, and Godchildren.
Special Thanks to Dr. Byun, Dr. Slater, VCMC Staff-DOU, Livingston Memorial Hospice, and Garden Memorial.
Mass will be on March 10, 2016 at 11am- St. Francis of Assisi Church in Fillmore at 1048 W. Ventura St. Burial will follow the Mass at Bardsdale Cemetery at 1698 Sespe St. Reception will take place at the Memorial Building at 511 Second St.- Fillmore, Ca.

Alan Thomas Florence (1946-2016)

August 4th 1946 – February 11th 2016
Alan has joined his wife Peggy Florence in everlasting peace. Alan is survived by his stepson Nick Edwards, his daughter in law Kim and their daughters Toni and Ali.
Alan, whose middle name was Tom and nick name “Pops” will be missed but has left those who loved him a great many joyful memories to be remembered by.
Alan was a Golfer. He was the son of a Golfer and spent many days with Nick at their favorite Golf Course, Elkins Ranch just outside of the city of Fillmore. He loved the 17th hole at Elkins because he could look out into the Santa Clara River Valley towards the Pacific Ocean and see all the trees in the valley. It brought back childhood memories of when as a kid he worked at Sleepy Hollow Golf Course in Ohio.
Alan was a Nurseryman by trade, spending over 23 years dedicated to it. Many people over the years and even after his retirement would call him up asking for tips and suggestions on what to grow and how to grow their yards and gardens.
Alan and Nick were prone to taking trips to Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure Parks. Alan found great joy on rides such as Soaring Across California of which let him see the natural beauty of California and Cars Land which reminded him of the years spent in the High Desert where he lived after his service in the Army.
Alan served his country honorably during the Vietnam War. He was lucky to have not been put directly in harm’s way but was instead stationed in Japan where he carried out his duties. After the war Alan was stationed in California at Mount Gleason. Upon leaving the Army in 1972 after 6 years of service he decided to remain in the Antelope Valley.
While living in the tiny town of Little Rock he met and fell in love with his one true love, Margaret “Peggy” Ann Edwards. Alan became like a father to Peggy’s son Nick Edwards. Alan and Peggy dated and remained close and not until Nick was in High School did they tie the knot. The year was 1989.
Peggy passed in 2004 and Alan never remarried. Alan continued to wear his wedding ring up until days prior to his own passing and only took it off because it no longer would stay on his finger Alan loved Peggy eternally.
Alan showed great love for his family and those who were like family to him. He would help in any way he could to help others when they needed it. He was a kind soul and will be missed and always remembered.

Jeffrey Curtis Acosta (1957-2015)

JULY 10, 1957/ NOV 29, 2015
Our Buddy Jeff passed away peacefully in Moorpark, CA.
Surrounded by his Loved ones.
“No more pain in his two-legged Journey On Earth”
Jeffrey is the son of Viola Anne Acosta and the late Alfred Andrew Acosta and the first grandson of the late Guadalupe Dominquez Ramirez and Fermin Arroyo Ramirez of Piru. Survived by his mother Viola Anne Acosta, sister Stephanie Ann Acosta and brother Steve Alfred Acosta of Piru. Nieces: Diana Acosta Sawyer,Amber Nativada Acosta Campbell. Nephews: Steve Alfred Acosta, Daniel Acosta and
Gunner Edward Acosta.
If we could bring you back again for one more hour or day we'd express all our unspoken love we'd have countless things to say. If we could bring you back again
we'd say we treasured you and that your presence in our lives meant more than we ever knew. If we could bring you back again to tell you what we should you'd know how much we miss you now and if we could, we would.
A celebration of life will be held at 1:00pm on Friday February 5, 2016 at Piru Cemetery 3580 Center Street Piru, 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 Jeffrey’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

Mary Spitler (1918-2015)

It brings great sadness to announce the passing of Mary, from this world to the next, in this great mystery of life. May she rest, in peace.
She was born Mary Virginia Simpson on November 17, 1918 at St. John’s Hospital in Oxnard, California. Mary was the only child of Mary Virginia (Parks) Simpson and George Levick Simpson. The first day of her life she was brought to Rancho Virginia in Sespe, California, which was owned by her grandmother, Virginia Bizzell Parks. Soon afterward, she returned with her parents to their home in Los Angeles, California. Mary’s father was the western U.S. sales manager for Fisk Tires and was a member of the Wilshire Country Club, where he golfed with many players of the day, including Bobby Jones.
Before Mary was old enough to go to school, she and her parents moved to Vallejo, California for a few years, then returned to Los Angeles. Mary usually spent her summers with her grandmother at Rancho Virginia in Sespe. She finished her primary schooling in Los Angeles, and then moved with her parents to Rancho Virginia in 1933.
Mary attended Fillmore High School, graduating in 1937, and the following year she took a post-graduate course there. In 1938 she began a long career as secretary at Sespe Elementary School in Fillmore, California. She was a dedicated employee there through several generations of students. In 1943 Mary was wed to Robert W. “Bud” Spitler. They were married for 25 years. She retired from Sespe Elementary School in 1986.
After “retiring” the first time, Mary continued to do secretarial work, first for Stephen Onstot & Associates, and later, for many years, for the Fillmore Irrigation Company, retiring full-time to her beloved Rancho Virginia in 2004.
Mary was well known for her outgoing and indomitable spirit. She often befriended the kids who, for one reason or another, ended up in the school principal’s office. She volunteered her time to civic and religious functions in Fillmore. One of her lifelong dedications was to the welfare of cats and dogs, taking many into her home, and being a regular donor to the Humane Society, the SPCA, and the Canine Adoption and Rescue League (CARL’s) in Santa Paula, California. Mary was a longtime member of the Humane Society, the American Cancer Society, the Fillmore Alumni Association, and Trinity Episcopal Church in Fillmore.
She will be greatly missed by her dear friends, three godsons, three goddaughters, the “Rancho Virginia boys”, and their families. According to her wishes a private memorial party in her honor will be held at Rancho Virginia at a later date.
Donations in Mary’s memory can be made to CARL’s in Santa Paula through their website donation link at carldog.org or by mail at 901 Mission Rock Road, Santa Paula, CA 93060.

Meredith G. Taylor (1925-2016)

Meredith G. Taylor, known to family and friends as Mert, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Friday, January 8, 2016. Mert was born May 24, 1925, in Rialto California, to parents Meredith G. and Irene Taylor.
He was preceded in death by his parents; father and mother-in-law, Joseph and Natalie Costanzo; brother-in-law’s John, Sal, Tom, and Pete Costanzo; and special nephew John Costanzo.
Mert was raised in the Midwest. His parents followed highway construction work. He entered the U.S. Army Air Force in 1943 at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas as a heavy equipment/crane operator. He was stationed in Iceland as a Sergeant. After being discharged in 1946, with two fellow veterans, Mert purchased a Harley Davidson 80 flathead to make the trip from Mississippi to Glendale, California to visit his parents. After arriving in California, Mert acquired a job in Long Beach with Wonderly Construction as a heavy equipment operator.
Mert became best friends with the neighbor’s sons and daughter. There he met the love of his life, Connie Costanzo. Connie’s brothers nicknamed him Mert. A couple of years later, he was asked to transfer to Fillmore to manage the construction yard for the tri-counties. Mert and Connie were married June 1954.
After living in Fillmore for a few years, Wonderly Construction closed their Fillmore yard. That’s when Mert and Connie decided to stay and open their own business. In 1961, M.G. Taylor Equipment started with Mert operating his D6 bulldozer and Connie managing the bookwork. He provided custom farming services in the Santa Clara Valley and serviced oil companies in constructing new drill sites, new roads, pipeline right-of-ways and maintenance of existing well sites in Ventura, Kern, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Monterey and Los Angeles Counties. The company is truly a family business in that Mert and Connie’s children continue to manage the business today. The company celebrates 55 years in business.
Mert was faithful to St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church where he made close and personal friends. He was a member of Grange, American Legion, Fillmore Club, Los Padrinos Club, and Piru Petroleum Club. Mert loved animals and enjoyed horses. He attended the local roping arena and cattle roundups. With a local group of men, he would pack in on horseback and camp at the Sespe Hot Springs. Mert started taking his son at age six. He took memorable vacations with the family.
For the love of Fillmore and the surrounding area, Mert volunteered his time and equipment toward many community projects such as the Fillmore Little League Baseball field, Shiells Park, and Fillmore BMX Park to name a few.
Mert is survived by his loving wife, Connie; son, Greg Taylor of Fillmore; daughters, Natalie (Don Tello) of Fillmore, Cynthia, (Tom Wise) of Bakersfield, and Rita Taylor of Fillmore. He leaves behind six grandchildren, Brooke Taylor, Jannelle Taylor, Grant Taylor, Tom (Chantel Wise Jr.), John Wise and Ceresse Wise; great grandson, Tom Wise, III; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Mert will always be remembered as a loving Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, Uncle and Friend. He was a man of his word. He never talked about anyone much less his accomplishments. His priority was to make a living for the family. He’ll be remembered for his humor, his love for the outdoors and his sincerity.
Rosary services will take place on Thursday, January 21, 2016, 7:00 PM, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 1048 W. Ventura St., Fillmore. Funeral Mass will also be held at St. Francis of Assisi Church on Friday, January 22nd, at 10:00 AM. Graveside services will follow immediately after the Mass at Bardsdale Cemetery, with military honors presented by the United States Army.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Mert’s name to St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church or to the charity of your choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Ted Mayr Funeral Home, 3150 Loma Vista Road, Ventura. Condolences may be sent to TedMayrFuneralHome.com

Reguberto ‘Rigo’ Landeros (1964-2016)

A strong voice of community pride and optimism in the City of Fillmore has gone silent with the passing of Fillmore Fire Chief and Assistant City Manager Rigo Landeros. Chief Landeros had a love of family and community that was known throughout Ventura County. His love and devotion to those he cared about was unmatched, and he was constantly waving and greeting friends, children and citizens as he would drive around the City in the Chief’s fire vehicle.
Rigo Landeros was born on February 5, 1964 in Fillmore and grew up in the City he loved. His childhood dream was to join the Fire Service as a firefighter and he started working as a part time volunteer firefighter in Fillmore after completing a reserve firefighter academy in 1991. As he developed his skills with the Fire Service, he also worked as a meat cutter with Gelson’s Markets, where his talents were quickly recognized and within a few years he became an executive in that chain. But his beloved City and his love for the fire service beckoned to him and he left Gelson’s in 2009 to become Fillmore’s Fire Chief, a position he filled in an exemplary manner until his passing on January 7th.
But above his love for firefighting and community was his love for his wife Laura and his family. He was a devoted husband to Laura, father to children Christina Bingham (Elden), Daniel and David Landeros, and grandfather to Gabriella and Mia Bingham. He is also survived by his father and three brothers and three sisters.
To Rigo Landeros, no matter who he met in his daily travels, his caring for others before himself was always apparent. Chief Landeros will be missed by many as will his responses to anyone who ever asked how he was on any given day. His responses would always reflect how he felt about how he lived his life – “Just another beautiful day in paradise, my friend” or “Living the dream”. May Rigo rest in peace and those who knew him be comforted with the knowledge that he would want them to continue to feel the love that he bestowed upon so many.
A public memorial service for Chief Landeros will be held at the Church of the Latter Day Saints in Ventura, 3501 Loma Vista Road on Tuesday, January 19th at 10:00 a.m. Arrangements under the direction of Skillin-Carroll Mortuary.

Gloria Jean “Punkin” Gonzales (1947-2016)

Gloria Jean “Punkin” Gonzales passed away from a brief illness on January 7, 2016. She was born on December 10, 1947 in Newhall Ranch to Alex Real and Vera Acosta Real. Gloria was a lifelong resident of Ventura County. She was a 1967 graduate of Fillmore High School. Gloria worked at Piru School for over 31 years as teacher’s aide, capturing the hearts of all the students and staff she worked with.

Gloria is preceded in death by her parents, Alex Real and Vera Acosta Real, brothers Jeffery Elkins and David Elkins. She survived by her husband of 48 years, Francisco “Poncho” Gonzales, children, Frank (Denise) Gonzales of High Point, North Carolina and Francine (Herman) Alfaro of Bakersfield. She was a proud grandmother to 5 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Gloria is also survived by her sister Alexandra Real of Fillmore, Lona Haws of Fillmore, Terri Elkins-Dinsmore of Ventura, and Michael Elkins of Ventura.

Gloria enjoyed traveling with her husband and spending time with her family. She will always be remembered for her smile, laughter, and making friends wherever she went. Gloria will be truly missed by her family, friends, former students, and the communities of Piru and Fillmore.

A special thank you to her all of those who assisted in the care of Gloria during her illness.

A rosary will be recited on Thursday, January 14, 2016 at 9:00am followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at San Salvador Church in Piru. Interment will follow at Piru Cemetery.

To sign the family’s on line guestbook, share stories, and post pictures please visit our website: www.garciamortuaryoxnard.com and click on Gloria’s name located below "Obituaries."

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of GARCIA MORTUARY, 629 South A Street, Oxnard. For further information, please call (805) 486-9148.

Harold Walker Legan (1926-2016)

Harold Walker Legan passed away, peacefully in his sleep, on January 4, 2016. Harold was born on June 25, 1926 to Floyd K. Legan, Sr. of Fillmore and Frances Cecelia Mary Von Use of Montalvo. Harold was born, at the Cottage Hospital, in Santa Barbara. The Legan Family resided there for 14 years while Harold Legan attended the Den Grammar school on the Dos Pueblo's Ranch, Elwood Grammar school in Goleta and La Cumbra School in Santa Barbara. In 1939 the Family moved to the Legan Ranch in Fillmore where he attended and Graduated from Fillmore High School in 1944. Harold entered the U.S. Army, the 11th Airborne Division, in November 1944 and served Honorably in Japan and the Philippines until December of 1946. For 38 years, Harold Volunteered proudly on the "Fillmore Search and Rescue Team" from 1952-1988. "Arapaho" was the nickname given to Harold, by friends and colleagues, for his acute search and tracking skills. Harold was commended for this achievement, by the Ventura County Board of Supervisors, on February 6, 1990. Harold was a member of the Fillmore First United Methodist Church and the Piru United Methodist Church. He was also an active member of the Piru Petroleum Club. Harold is served by his brother, Floyd K. Legan, Jr., many cousins, relatives and many, many dear friends. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Piru Methodist Church Organ Repair Fund. The Organ was damaged during the 1994 Northridge Earth Quake. Graveside services will be at the Barksdale Cemetery January 16, at 1:00pm.

Burtis Lamar Davis (1917-2015)

Burtis Lamar Davis, 98, of Fillmore died Thursday, December 31, 2015, following a long illness. Burt was born December 28, 1917, and grew up in Fillmore where he met wife, Phyllis. After graduation, Burt worked with his brother, Gerald (Sadie) Davis at the Seaside Gas Station. He entered the Army and served in Germany during World War II. He was discharged and returned to Fillmore to again work with his brother at the Texaco Station.
Burt was known throughout Southern California as an athletic official in high school and college. He started officiating in 1935 and in 1949 became a charter member of the Channel Coast Officials Association. He was Secretary and Treasurer for 25 years and conducted many officiating clinics throughout Southern California. At one time in his career he was the Number 1 “white hat referee” 8 out of a 10 year period. He refereed 4A football finals in the Los Angeles Coliseum, 4A basketball games, and spring training games between the Dallas Cowboys and Oakland Raiders. He was inducted into the Fillmore High School and Ventura County Sports Hall of Fame.
Burt had a big heart with a big smile and a loud voice that could be heard all over town!
Burt was proceeded in death by his parents, Thad and Nellie Davis, his wife, Phyllis, sisters, Jewell Fremlin and Laura Smith Harmonson and brothers, Gerald Davis and Perry Davis.
He is survived by his daughters, Lynne and husband, Joe Cook of Waco, Texas; Valerie and husband, Gene Newland of Fresno, California and Laurie DeAlejandro of Ventura, California, as well as many grandchildren and great grandchildren.
The family would like to express their gratitude and appreciation to Lupe Barraza for her loving care of our Dad for over 11 years as well as Teresa Olmos who has been with us over two years.
Special thanks to all the staff of the Assisted Home Hospice Care in Ventura.
A visitation will be held from 3 to 5 pm on Thursday, January 7, at Skillin-Carroll Mortuary, 600 Central Ave., Fillmore. Services will be held in Fillmore, 10:00am on Friday, January 8th at Faith Community Church, 461 Central Ave. Graveside services with Military Honors will take place at 3:00 pm in Bardsdale Cemetery, Fillmore, with Pastor Mark Rathe of Faith Community Church, officiating both ceremonies.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Assisted Hospice Care in Ventura or a charity of your choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Ted Mayr Funeral Home, 3150 Loma Vista Road, Ventura. Condolences may be left at www.TedMayrFuneralHome.com
Please sign the guest book at obits.VenturaCountyStar.com.

Bobby William Hill (1943-2015)

Bobby William Hill, age 72, of Santa Paula passed from this life on Monday, December 28, 2015, at home. He was born January 19, 1943, in Bakersfield, CA, to William (Bill) and Thelma Hill. He was the oldest of five children. He graduated from Fillmore High School in 1961. He attended nights at Ventura College right after High School. He worked for Bermite in Saugus, CA, transferred to Vandenberg in Lompoc, CA, and then had the opportunity to go work in Houston, Texas, at NASA’s space center in the Testing Dept. When returning to the West Coast we went to work in Indio, CA, and areas of California Oil Drilling and later Steam Drilling in Lakeport, CA, before settling back down in Ventura County.
He is preceded in death by two daughters Sheila Marie and Carrie Rene Hill, a brother Donald Eugene Hill, his father William and grandparents, William and Beatrice Hill and Robert and Nellie Hankins.
He is survived by a wife Susan M. Hill, a son Christopher Lee Hill (Rosalie Hill) of Santa Paula, a daughter Lisa Marie Hill of Sacramento, CA. Grandchildren Wesley Coons, of Sacramento, Amber Frinzell of Citrus Heights, CA, Christopher Lee, Aiden Luther and Tristan William of Santa Paula, CA, and Savhanna K. Kozar of Alma, AR. His Mother Thelma Hill of Alma, AR, two brothers Billy W. Hill (Barbara) of Victorville, CA, Larry W. Hill of Clearlake, CA a sister Lois Kozar (John) of Alma, AR, And Numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews, nieces, and friends.
Viewing will be held at Skillin-Carroll Mortuary 738 E. Santa Paula Street, Santa Paula, CA Wednesday January 6, 2016 at 10:00am, with a Funeral Service Starting at 11:00am also at Skillin-Carroll Mortuary. Graveside Service at Santa Paula Cemetery 380 Cemetery Road, Santa Paula, CA at noon. Services entrusted to Skillin- Carroll Mortuary 805-525-3391.

Dolores P. Rivera (Lola) (1938-2015)

Fillmore. CA
Lola passed on December 8, after a 2015 lengthy illness. She was born at her parent’s home in Piru, CA in 1938. She started working at the Fillmore-Piru Citrus at the age of 16 and worked there for 39 years. In between that time she married Joe Rivera and they had four children Jo Ann, Joe, Jeanette, & Michael and resided in Fillmore.
When she was younger she use to sing on the radio with her brother Raymond Ponce and they were always playing and singing at every family gathering along with their sister Jennie Medina. What she was most famous for in Fillmore was her Taco Fridays. All were welcome to come to her home and enjoy some tacos and fun times. She would literally make hundreds of tacos for one night these tacos were so wonderful some would say they were in taco heaven.
She was preceded in death by her husband Joe and her brother Raymond. She is survived by her children, sister Jennie Medina brother Chuy Ponce. Lola had five grandchildren and one great grandchild.
We are grateful for all the loving memories she left us all. She was the best mom any of us could ask for, wonder sister, awesome aunt and loving friend. She will be greatly missed. Services will be held January 8th, 2016 at 10:00am at Bardsdale Cemetery 1698 S. Sespe Street, Fillmore, CA. Services entrusted to Skillin-Carroll Mortuary (805) 524-0744.

Martinano Curiel (1922-2015)

Martinano Curiel, our beloved father, grandfather, brother, and uncle passed away quietly on December 14, 2015 at the age of 93. Our Father in Heaven decided it was time to reunite him with his wife Cora, daughter Josie, son Bill, sisters Fabiana & Carmen, brother Chon, mother Monica, and Father Feliciano.
As a very young man, Martin came to Fillmore as a Bracero and found a home at “Pinas” on Clay Street. There he met Cora who he eventually married and had a beautiful family with. He later moved to the house in Fillmore known as the “La Bamba House.”
God blessed Martin with a caring and humble heart. If he knew of a young man arriving from Mexico in search of a better life, he would open his door and offer them shelter and food. He would tell us the story when he first arrived to Fillmore of a man who found him sleeping in a cement drain pipe who helped him with food and shelter at 14 years old. He was taught that lesson at a young age to help people in need. Martin also encouraged the boys to go to school, learn English and graduate. He was a firm believer in education for all especially for women. With Martin’s support all his daughters received an education. He truly believed and often said, “No woman is guaranteed a man to support her, so get your degree.”
What made us most proud of Dad was his strong support and his believe in the fight for civil injustice in Fillmore for Farmworker Union Rights. He was a pioneer of the citrus strikes in Ventura County at which Cesar Chavez organized at his home. Along with his activism Martin sponsored over 100 farmworkers to receive their immigration papers, during the Immigration Reform & Control Act of the 1980’s.
Our dad was a proud farmer and teacher. He started growing crops in the 1960’s through 2000’s. Being the first farmer to have a roadside vegetable stand off the highway. Many would see him in Fillmore driving his tractor on the 126 between Fillmore and Piru. Martin would share his farming knowledge to all who would listen and willing to learn, especially with his grandson Isaac. We all share fond memories at the ranch with Grandpa Martin.
Martin was a true story teller, where each story always ended with a lesson to be learned.
Dad was well loved in his community.
We love Grandpa Martin.
“My tio was a great man who opened so many doors for all of us.” Rocio Curiel Benevides
“Gracias tio por todo, lo que enseno a trabajar. Por usted estoy aqui.” Mateo Curiel
“You will always be loved and missed by the countless people whose lives you touched.” Matiniano Francisco Curiel (Tino)
Martin is survived by his three daughters, Hortencia, Monica, and Martha (Ruben), three sons, Frank (Ailsa), John (Patty), and Freddy. His two brothers, Ramon (Elvira) and Mateo Curiel. Martin leaves behind several grand and great grandchildren: Monica, (Vince), Vince Jr., Alina, Mateo; Tino, Payton, Tino Jr., Catalina; Laura, Esther, Isaac (Lydia), Jazmyn, & Roman. Cookie (Orlando) & Noah. Lea (Randy) & Anthony. Danny (Stacy) & Matthew & Steven. David & Serena & David Jr. Ramona (Arturo) & Turi, Tonio, & Alex. Bill Jr (Berta), Becca, Amanda, & Jordyn. Casey & Shawn.
Visitation will be held at Skillin-Carroll Chapel on Sunday, December 20, 2015, from 4:00-8:00pm. With Rosary at 7:00 pm. Located at 600 N. Central Avenue, Fillmore, Ca. 93015. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Church on Monday, December 21, 2015 at 10:00am at 1048 Ventura Street in Fillmore, with burial to follow at Bardsdale Cemetery 1698 S. Sespe Street in Fillmore.

Ronald Dean Meadows 70, of Fillmore, California, passed away on December 3rd in Ventura, after a lengthy illness.
Ronald, "Ron" Dean Meadows was born an only child to Emmett and Alma Frazier Meadows on May, 21st 1945 in Ventura, California. Ron was married to Linda May Aulich on November, 14th of 1969.
Ron retired from the County of Ventura.
Ron served his country from 1964-1968 in the United States Army.
Ron was known for his work ethic and his involvement in his church in his younger days. He was a Commander of the "Royal Rangers" at the Fillmore Assembly of God Church with an emphasis on God, Faith, and teamwork. Many boys attended many outings with Meadows and other commanders from surrounding areas.
He was always outdoors, and truly loved fishing with his many lifelong friends. He wanted to make our public spaces beautiful, for all to enjoy. He pioneered local recycling before it was actually recycling in the late seventies, while working for the County of Ventura.
By far, the most enjoyment Ron got was building and restoring old cars and trucks in his idle time.
Ron is survived by wife Linda, sons Daniel Meadows and John Meadows of Fillmore, brother in laws, Larry Aulich (Eva) and Bill Aulich (Carol) several nieces and nephews
Services will be private.

William (Bill) Shiells Kimble (1926-2015)

William (Bill) Shiells Kimble (1926-2015)
October 22, 1926 - November 23, 2015
William (Bill) Kimble passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on November 23, 2015 while boarding a local bus in Montecito, California. He had been active and fit and was running errands while helpers at Casa Dorinda were cleaning his apartment. Bill had been a resident at Casa Dorinda for 20 years and was beloved by all residents and staff who knew him. Always a gentle man, he took the time to befriend and take a personal interest in everyone he encountered. One staff member recounted that he loved to be called “Guillermo.” “ He was not just a resident,” he said, “He was my friend.”
Bill was born in Oxnard and raised in Wilmington, California. He was drafted into the army and served in Japan after the armistice. Thereafter, he lived in Los Angeles where he worked at Barker Brothers, a high-end furniture store. It was here that he developed a keen sense of taste in interior design. His many homes were impeccably curated and elegant set pieces that could have been photographed for Architectural Digest.
Around 1950, Bill moved to San Francisco, where he worked at the California Historical Society. His interest in history extended to his own family’s history and he often included visits to distant relatives in his extensive travels. Bill was an avid traveler throughout his life. He circled the globe three times. Among his many adventures was a trip on the Trans Siberia/Mongolian Railway, many luxury cruises, including one on the QE2 for its inaugural crossing of the Atlantic, and a flight on the supersonic jet Concorde from Washington DC to London in a mere 3.5 hours! Bill hiked many National Park trails, the mountain peaks of Europe, and the Milford Track in New Zealand. He often spent holidays relaxing in Hawaii.
While in San Francisco, Bill began his lifelong exploration of life’s deeper meaning. He was not a member of any religious faith, but explored life through lectures and extensive reading. He often wrote quotes and thoughts on napkins, used envelopes and scraps of paper. One said, “God asleep is man. Man awake is God.”
In the early 1970’s, Bill moved to Fillmore, CA to be closer to his mother, Helen Shiells Kimble during her later years of life. He left San Francisco’s foggy weather and embraced southern California’s sunny climate by creating a grand garden filled with succulents and bougainvillea. Ever adaptable, he began to incorporate art and objects from old California and Mexico into his collection. After his mother passed away, he moved to a one-room apartment at Casa Dorinda in Montecito overlooking the San Gabriel Mountains.
Bill was a bon vivant, a man of impeccable taste and a world traveler. He lived his life well and fully and on his own terms. We will miss his generosity of spirit, the twinkle in his eyes and his large fits of laughter. He was preceded in death by his father, Orva Lewis Kimble; his mother Helen Shiells Kimble; and his sister, Virginia Kimble Headley. He is survived by his brother, Donald Kimble; his sister-in-law, Mary Anne Kimble; his nieces, Martha Richardson and Kiyomi Kimble; his nephews, Scott, Loren and Christopher Kimble; and many cousins, grand nieces and grand nephews.
Bill was laid to rest at Goleta Cemetery along with other members of the Shiells Family on November 30, 2015. May God be with him on his greatest journey.

Mike was born on September 25, 1943 in Fillmore, Ca. Mike passed away November 25, 2015 in Santa Paula, Ca. He was surrounded by family and passed away peacefully after saying his goodbyes.
Mike began his career in the citrus industry in 1963 after graduating from Fillmore High School in 1962. Mike married his high school sweet heart Terri Myers in 1964 and spent 51 great years together.
Along with his citrus management Mike started a gun smith business. He always gave credit to his lifelong friend and teacher Malcom Jackson for teaching him all he knew about repairing or building a beautiful gun.
Mike had a passion for the outdoors. He loved hunting and fishing with his friends and family. He hunted and fished all around the Ventura County, the Sierras and Utah.
Mike was all about family and friends. All the years of living on the ranch, there was a steady flow of friends and family of all ages because there was always an open door and a good time to be had.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents Charlie and Nita Hastings, and his daughter DeAnna. Mike is survived by his wife Terri, his son Derrik his wife Michelle, grandchildren Charlie, Jordyn and Griffin Hastings. Joslyn Spieler, Falisha Lemon. Sister Nancy Bowlin, nephew Chip (Sandy) Bowlin and nieces Corrie and Casey Bowlin.
No services will be held as was his request. He asked that all his family and many friends remember all the great times and stories with no sadness only happiness.
Mike’s last words to Terri were “It’s been a great party babe!”
Mike has requested that in lieu of flowers please make a donation to The Wounded Warriors Foundation.
To sign the family's online guestbook, share memories and post pictures please visit our website: www.santapaulafuneralhome.com
Funeral Arrangements are under the direction of the Family Owned & Operated Robert Rey Garcia Jr. Funeral Services, Santa Paula. 805.229.7054.