Anita Jane Elkins Bailey September 1929—June 2023

Anita Elkins Bailey, 93, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 12, 2023 at home in Valencia, CA.

Anita was born in Fillmore, on September 19, 1929, to James Gillespie Blaine (J.B.) Elkins and Mary Jane (Evans) Elkins. Anita grew up in Fillmore on the Elkins Ranch and attended Bardsdale Elementary and Fillmore High Schools, graduating in 1947. Anita attended Woodbury University studying Business and was a member of Beta Sigma Phi.

On September 3, 1951, Anita married Edmund (Ted) Bailey in the First Presbyterian Church in Fillmore and they spent almost 62 years of marriage before Ted passed away in 2013.

Anita and Ted spent 15 years in Santa Maria where their children Mary Ellen and Rob were born before relocating to Valencia where the Bailey’s lived for the next 54 years.

Anita worked for Bank of America as well as Elkins Ranch Company, where she served as a Director and Officer for many years. As well as homemaker, her most honored and proudest titles were Mom, Grammy and G-G (Grammy-Great) to her 2 children, 5 grandchildren and 4 great-grands. Family was so important to Anita, and she loved hosting sleepovers with all 5 grandkids together where she passed on the love of games, stories and family values and traditions. She was so very proud of each and every one of them and their many accomplishments.

Anita enjoyed many wonderful historical trips around the U.S., Canada and Europe. One of her favorites was following the entire Oregon Trail from Missouri to Oregon and the trail of the Lewis and Clark Expedition as well as visiting Boston and the entire east coast.

She loved to walk, read, do the daily crossword puzzle and was a Jeopardy whiz!

Anita was preceded in death by her parents Blaine and Mary Jane Elkins, her sisters Margaret (Lloyd) Balden, Dorothy (Edgar) James, brothers Richard (Edith) Elkins and James (Joan) Elkins, as well as her son Rob Bailey.

Anita is survived by her daughter Mary Ellen Bailey Gravel, daughter-in-law Wendy Bailey, brother Lloyd (Barbara) Elkins, grandchildren Kelly (Adam) Bailey, Patrick (Brooke) Bailey and Garrett Bailey, Desiree (Christian) Stevens, Cameron Gravel and great grandchildren Jackson and Colter Bailey, and Charlotte and Luke Stevens, and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 5th at Eternal Valley, Newhall, CA. Burial will immediately follow at 11:00 a.m. at the Bardsdale Cemetery in Fillmore.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Anita’s name to:

The Fillmore Historical Museum https://www.fillmorehistoricalmuseum.org/support-us or

The Fillmore Alumni Association
http://www.fillmorehighalumni.com/donate

Mary Ruth Walker Scurlock (October 1920 – March 2023)

Mary Ruth Walker Scurlock, 102, passed away the morning of March 20, 2023 at home.
Ruth was born October 19,1920 to Henry and Laura Scurlock in Santa Paula. She attended Santa Paula High School and graduated in 1939.

In the 50’s she moved the family to Fillmore and loved it, and with the exception of world travels, never left. If you’ve lived in Fillmore for any length of time you have most likely run across her--her quick wit and sharp memory, maybe at Henry’s, the chamber of commerce, the historical museum, or alumni banquets wearing one of her cardinal red outfits, many local events or maybe Elkins Ranch Golf Course where she was known for making great burgers!
She enjoyed hearing about people as well as sharing stories and could recite details that even those who lived it often forgot about.

She was preceded in death by many. A couple that hit her particularly hard; her son Don E. Imhoof and her youngest grandson Andrew J. Benavidez.
She is survived by her 2 daughters and son, Donna Duval, Gloria Benavidez and Ken Imhoof; 6 grandsons, Mark & Josh Duval, Michael & Patrick Benavidez, Shawn & Ron Imhoof; 2 great-grandsons, Jason & Nathaniel Benavidez; 3 great-granddaughters, Madison & Jacie Imhoof and Brittney Ellington.
She requested no services. The family is asking in lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to the Fillmore Historical Museum.

Margaret Irene Willis (December 1954 – April 2023)

On April 21st 2023 our beloved Margaret Irene Willis passed away from a longtime illness. Margaret was born on Christmas Day 1954. She was raised in Piru then moved to Fillmore where she lived most of her life. She was an amazing mom and grandma. She worked at Henry Mayo Hospital for more than 20 years and she will be missed very much by her family and everyone that knew her. She was a nurturer by heart, always stepping in to take care of someone in need whether it be family or a friend. Mom, Now you can have your shotty for the body and rest peacefully. I love you, thank you for being you. Margaret was proceeded in death by her Mom Irene Kutbach and Father Ernest Kutbach she is survived by her children Brian Willis, Lucius Willis (Jennifer Willis) and Ashley Martinez. Grandchildren Destiny Willis, Lucius Willis Jr, Jayleen Willis, Sasha Willis, Mathew Willis, Akadia Willis and Victoria Martinez. Brothers and Sisters Samuel Torres, (Patsy Torres) Mark Torres, (Patty Torres) Rick Kutbach, August Kutbach, Willie Kutbach, Hilda Hoffman, and Kathryn Johnson. Church service will be held at 9am on Friday, June 23rd at the San Salvador Catholic Church in Piru. Burial will be at 11:00am at the Bardsdale Cemetery in Fillmore, Ca. Reception to follow.

Maria Rosa Morales (January 1928 – May 2023)

Maria Rosa Morales, born January 11, 1928, in Limoneira-Santa Paula. Preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dolores Salazar Morales (Sookie); her beloved parents, Basilio and Felicitas Cabral; seven beloved brothers, Lupe, Pedro, Aurelio, Tony, Jose, Manuel, and Juan Cabral; one beloved sister, Jesusita Cabral, and Jesus “Chuy” Carrera.
Our beloved Mother/Wela passed away on the evening of May 18 at 11:22pm, in the presence of family with no signs of struggle, pain, or any discomfort of any kind. Something we know that in her daily silent prayers, she asked God and our Holy Mother Mary to intercede for her in the event of her passing.

Shortly after birth, our Mother/Wela went to Mexico with her parents and family growing up in the beautiful village of Cueva Grande, Zacatecas. Her stories of her upbringing in the “rancho” brought joy and pleasure in her storytelling to the delight of her children, grandchildren, and friends. From a source through a relative of hers, she was an elite woman of bareback horse riding, riding with the best of men within her rancho. A self-taught educated child with the help of her brother, Aurelio, she managed to read in the Spanish and English language upon her return to California. She lived and was raised up at the rancho well into her teens and made her trek back to California where on October 28, 1950, married her soul mate “Sookie” Morales.

In 1951, she welcomed her first-born son, David, followed by Jack (1953), and Raymond (1956). The “campito” was our home for the first years as family, followed by living at good ol’ Highway 126, where during this time there was scarcely any traffic, before finally settling at our permanent home on Lora Lane in 1962. In the early year of 1964 (February), our Mom and Dad welcomed a precious addition to our family, Ana Maria Carrera, who instantly became our adopted daughter and sister that we didn’t have, as we shared 15 years of life here on Lora Lane, and always assisting Mom in the kitchen to help serve family, friends, and at retreats. In addition, in 1966, Mom also welcomed Jesus “Chuy” Carrera, who shared life here with us for five plus years before moving on to Oakland.

Employment came easy for Mom, once her sons began their schooling, her wants to contribute financially at home became evident. Never surrendering to hard physical work, she established herself in the many citrus packinghouses here in Rancho Sespe, Fillmore, and Piru. In her nearly 30 years of employment, she became an obligated, accountable, and devoted employee. Her trademark of work ethics has been absorbed and passed on to her family.
The joy and comfort of her life was being proud of her Catholic faith, instilling in us the teachings of our faith through her daily example of worship, prayer, and treating others as we would want to be treated. She never backed down in assisting our local St. Francis of Assisi Church in many ways of service through her participation in the Mission Circle, Los Padrinos, Altar Society, Catechism instructional assistant, Eucharist Minister, fiesta bake sales, wonderful hostess to her three sons and friends by cooking dinners for home games and birthdays, cooking for youth and confirmation retreats, as well as a Godmother to many. Her joy was inviting our local priests when given the opportunity to serve dinner in their honor. Mom’s cuisine was truly something to boast about as each of her family had their favorite God given dish that she prepared.

Our family would like to extend our heartfelt blessings and ‘Thank You’s’ to Dr. Mikael Hakasson, Marta and Staff; to Buena Vista Palliative and Hospice Care; to Deacon Ramon Rodriguez for bringing Mom her nourishment of the Holy Eucharist every Sunday; to Rosa Rodriguez in her loving care as Mom’s hygiene caregiver; to Rita Talamantez for being Mom’s “Spiritual Taxi” for taking Mom to mass every week; to Lupe Carrillo for her home visits in cutting Mom's hair; and last but certainly not least, to all our neighbors, friends, and family who came through our door of welcome to visit Mom.
Our beloved Mother/Wela is survived by her daughter Ana Maria (Tony); sons David, Jack, and Raymond (Juanita); first generation of grandchildren Lina (Sergio), Jaclyn, Martin (Nereida), Anthony (Olga), John (Arlene), Daniel (Alisa), Stephen, Matthew (Diana), Analissa (Michael), and Sophia; sixteen great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandson, brother Luis Cabral (Santa Paula), and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services will be held on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at St. Francis of Assisi Church 1048 Ventura St. Fillmore, Ca 93015
Holy Rosary @ 10:30am – Pastor Jim Stehly
Catholic Mass @ 11:00am – Father Norman Supencheck
Interment to follow @ Bardsdale Cemetery
1698 S. Sespe St. Fillmore, Ca 93015
Reception following Interment @ St. Francis of Assisi Hall
Funeral Arrangements Prepared By: Funeraria del Angel
128 S. Eight St. Santa Paula, Ca

Clinton Clyde Clerc (September 1925 – May 2023)

Clinton Clyde Clerc passed away on May 20, 2023 at the age of 97.

A beloved third grade school teacher at San Cayetano Elementary School for 21 years, many may also remember him teaching students after school to play the recorder or learn how to folk dance. He was always happy when a former student would come up to him years later to thank "Mr. Clerc" for being their teacher. After he retired in 1987, he moved to Ventura and eventually settled in Port Hueneme, California.

Clinton was born on September 13, 1925 to Joseph and Odette Clerc in Rochester, Pennsylvania, one of 4 children (Raymond, Leonard, and Odile). He often shared tales of mischievous fun, growing up with his siblings.

Wanting to do his part to win World War II, but too young to join the Armed Services, Clinton joined the Merchant Marines at age 16, delivering supplies by ship to those fighting overseas. At age 18, Clinton joined the Army, becoming an instructor which influenced him to become a teacher. With the help of the GI bill, he studied Education at the University of Pittsburgh, earning a BA and Masters of Education.

Clinton also taught abroad, and when teaching at the American Naval base in France he met the love of his life, fellow teacher Suzanne Yver. The two married and eventually settled in Fillmore, California, raising three daughters.

Clinton pursued volunteering over his lifetime; as a scout leader with the Boy Scouts and Drum & Bugle Corps, a teacher for 55 Alive courses, and a docent at the Museum of Ventura County and Channel Islands Maritime Museum.

Always health conscious and active, Clinton enjoyed golf, pétanque, dancing, hiking, watercolor painting, reading, and traveling the world. When asked his secret to a long life, he said, “Stay curious and enjoy the world around you. Eat well and keep moving."

Clinton was predeceased by his wife Suzanne, his brothers Raymond and Leonard, and his brother-in-law Bob Robinson. He is survived by his daughters Sonia Clerc, Colleen Doane, and Dorinda von Stroheim; his son-n-laws Rex Doane and Otto von Stroheim; his grandchildren Vander and Dashiell von Stroheim; his sister and best friend Odile; his niece and golf partner Diane Pasapara; and his many nephews, nieces, cousins, family and friends.

Clinton will live on through the colorful stories he loved to share with family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations in his name to the Channel Islands Maritime Museum at www.cimmvc.org.

Alicia Bertha “Birdie” Muchisky (July 1941 – April 2023)

We are deeply saddened to announce that Alicia Bertha “Birdie” Muchisky, aged 81, has passed away on April 25, 2023 in her Bardsdale, Calif. home where she resided for 37 years.

Birdie was born on July 29, 1941 in Guadalajara, Mexico and moved to Corona, Calif. in 1945. She then moved to Fillmore, Calif. in 1980 with her beloved husband, John “Owen” Mushisky before moving to their Bardsdale home six years later. Birdie and Owen were married for 53 years until his passing in 2020.

She and her husband shared a love for travel - they enjoyed exploring different parts of the United States together and were able to visit 33 states. Birdie had a zest for life that was contagious and was always up for an adventure. She was an avid gardener, dancer, volunteer, and wine enthusiast. Birdie was a devoted grandmother who loved spending time with her grandchildren and was known for her warmth, kindness, and infectious smile. Her sense of humor and generosity will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Birdie is survived by her daughter Deana Martinez, stepdaughter Cheryl (Rinaldo) DeMenezes, and grandchildren Destiny (Paul) Martinez, Lauren DeMenezes, Jeremy (Lexis) Martinez-Muchisky, Nicholas DeMenezes, Kylie (Charles) Harris, and Daniel DeMenezes. She is also survived by her sister Gloria (Lawrence) Torres, brother-in-law Donald (Susan) Davidson, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband John “Owen” Muchisky, her son-in-law Ruben Martinez, her mother Socorro Ramirez, brother Mario Ramirez, sisters Ernestine Ponce and Irene Ramirez, and nephew Mario Ramirez.
Birdie will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on forever in the hearts of those who loved her. A memorial for both Birdie and Owen will be held in November and an announcement with additional details will be made by the family.
Funeral Arrangments are under the direction of the Family Owned & Operated Robert Rey Garcia Jr Funeral Services, Santa Paula, CA. 805.229.7054

David Balades (April 1936 – May 2023)

David Balades died peacefully at age 87 at his home surrounded by family on Sunday May 14, 2023. He was loved and cared for by his son Kenny Balades, his son Chris Balades and daughter in law Raeanna Balades. His 3 grandsons Randy Balades, Cody Balades, Brad Balades, and his granddaughter Tayler Balades. His 4 great grandchildren. He is survived by his four sisters Helen Torres of Camarillo, Peggy Nava of Oxnard, Virgina Valenzuela of Oxnard, Susan Balades of Santa Paula. He was preceded in death by sister Rita Misale, sister Connie Chaigres, sister Rose Magana, sister Hope Montanez, sister Della Bravo, sister Maria Ortega, brother Gilbert Balades, brother Marcelino Balades. David was born on April 9, 1936, in Oxnard CA.

After graduating from Oxnard High School, he served in the U.S Army. He married Helen Sanchez of Fillmore on April 4, 1959. David worked for General Motors in Van Nuys for 30 years and retired at the age of 50. He also attended New One Harvest Church in Ojai regularly where he made many friends and became more like family. David donated his time to help those in need of things like food, clothing, or prayer. Always ready for fellowship as far as Jamaica. David’s greatest strength was never to fear, always pressing forward even through the toughest storms that life may bring. David loved spending time with his two boys and grandchildren.

David will be deeply missed, now we lay him to rest so he may carry out his greatest journey to heaven. Rest in Paradise our angel.

Services for David Balades will be held at Perez Family Mortuary in Fillmore CA at 11:00 A.M. Celebration of life will be following.

Written by granddaughter, Tayler Balades.

Wayne & Dorothy Hunt

A 72 year long love story came to an end on May 10, 2023. On Tuesday, May 2, Dorothy Hunt passed away at age 87. Eight days later, Wednesday, May 10, Wayne Hunt passed away at age 92. They were married on Wayne’s 20th birthday, October 24, 1950 and were long time residents of Fillmore.

Dorothy was a housewife, known for her jokes, green thumb, lifelong membership in the Fillmore Women’s Service Club and doting on their only son, Rick. Wayne was a Korean War Veteran, serving in the US Army with the 1st Cavalry Division. Among other honors, he earned 3 Bronze Stars. Returning home to Fillmore, he was an exceptionally skilled truck driver in the oil fields around Southern California, and became a businessman, owning 1/3 of Barnett Trucking in Fillmore. After that, he was a safety consultant for H&H Oil Tool and Weatherford.

Dorothy is survived by siblings Wanda Smith, Curt Adams (Susan), Kay Mitchell (Mitch) and Sandi Spann (Doug). Wayne is survived by his brother, Bob (LaDonna). They are both survived by their son, Rick, his wife Debbie, granddaughter Erin (Joe) and 1.5 grandchildren.

Services are planned for Friday, June 30, 2023 at Faith Community Church in Fillmore at 10:00AM.

Frank Joseph “Buddy” Drew Jr., (December 1947 – May 2023)

Frank Joseph “Buddy” Drew Jr., age 75, passed away on Saturday, May 13. 2023 in Savannah, Georgia after a brief illness. Frank was born on December 19, 1947, to Frank Joseph and Mary Elizabeth (Emerson) Drew in Montclair, New Jersey, the third of six siblings. When he was five, his mother passed away and six years later, Helen Rose Wetzel Sutton Drew became his new mother, and he gained two additional sisters. While he was in grade school, the family moved to Fillmore, California where his outgoing personality and sense of humor made him many friends. He played center in football for Fillmore High School and despite breaking first one and then the other collar bone in different games, he loved playing football. After high school, Frank attended Ventura College until he joined the Navy in 1969 where he served as a radio operator, stationed in Guam.

Frank worked in various management roles in the citrus industry in different parts of the country. While working in Yuma, Arizona, he met and married Josefina Arvizu in December 1974, and was blessed to become the father of her daughter, Elizabeth. They were then blessed with three more children, Dora Helen, Frances Ann, and John Peter.

Frank enjoyed fishing and camping with family and friends. Since his retirement, he also enjoyed watching the large variety of birds and animals who made their homes on his large rural property in Vidalia, Georgia. Trail cameras captured photos of deer, raccoons, foxes, possums, and many different varieties of birds which he shared with family members.
Frank will be missed by family and friends. He is survived by his four children, Elizabeth Mehl (William), Dora Helen Drew, Frances Shows, and John Peter Drew (Ashley); four grandchildren, Brandon Mehl, Justen Mehl (Jackie), Jeffrey Shows, and Ryan Drew; his sisters, Susan Sutton Walden (Robert), Ellen Dewey (William), Linda (Sutton) Levine, and Joan Beem (Robert); his brothers John Drew (Darlene) and Peter Drew (Shari), and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. His sister Marcia Chaney (William) preceded him in death. No services are planned.

Margaret Helen Rainey (September 1924 – May 2023)

Margaret Helen Rainey, 98, passed away on Monday, May 8, 2023 in Sandpoint, Idaho. She will be laid to rest with her husband Raymond Rainey at the Bardsdale Cemetery in Fillmore, CA. Private family services have been held.
Margaret was born on September 30, 1924 in Fillmore, CA to William and Rachel McKendry. After graduating from Fillmore High School she married Raymond Rainey on May 21, 1941 in Fillmore.

She liked to joke about working in a “Bra” factory during the war. She owned a beauty salon in Fillmore before becoming a psych tech at Camarillo State Hospital for 8 years. Next, she and Raymond bought a laundromat in Ojai for four years. She worked part-time as a massage therapist at Matillja Hot Springs in California.

Margaret and the family moved back to Fillmore and she worked as a nurse in a rest home for 23 years. She retired to Sandpoint in 1998. She was a member of the Victory Baptist Church in Sagle with Pastor Jerry Favor.

Throughout her life she enjoyed playing on bowling leagues, and love to attend big tournaments like Las Vegas and San Francisco. She also enjoyed reading, writing and singing.

She is survived by her son Guy (Kathy) Rainey of Clarkston, WA; daughter-in-law Yvette Rainey of Sagle, Idaho; 4 grandchildren Herald Rainey, Jr., John Rainey, Rick Pyle, and Boyd Hopkins; 15 great grandchildren; and 7 great great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Raymond Rainey, brothers Donald, Dick, Dave, Wilfred McKendry, son Harold Rainey, daughter Cynthia Hopkins, and grandson Clay Chesser.

Lakeview Funeral Home in Sandpoint is handling the arrangements. Please visit Margaret’s online memorial at www.lakeviewfuneral.com and sign her guest book.

Jimmy Michael Dunehew (November 1966 – April 2023)

Jimmy Michael Dunehew passed away on April 26th 2023 unexpectedly at his home in San Marcos, California. Jimmy was born on November 20th, 1966 in Fresno Ca. to Jimmy & Loretta Dunehew.

Jimmy is survived by his Wife Erin Dunehew children Kandiz, Whitney, Jordan, Brook, Devyn, Blake, grandson Carter and several brothers and Sisters.

Jimmy was a graduate of Fillmore High School in 1984 where he had many friends and was well liked. Jimmy was known for his crazy shenanigans and always joking around with his partner in crime Scott Sanders. He loved his children deeply and spoke often of them. He was also a lifelong fan of Motocross, and he loved the ocean. YOU WILL BE MISSED BROTHER R.I.P.

A celebration of life will be held for Jimmy on June 3rd at 1:30 Pm at Shield’s Park in
Fillmore, CA

Juan Carlos Rodriguez (May 1980-April 2023)

Juan Carlos Rodriguez, 42 of Simi Valley, Ca passed away on 4-28-2023 in Fillmore, Ca.
Carlos was born in San Luis Rio, Colorado, Sonora MX to Gualalupe and Graciela Rodriguez, on 5-25-1980.

He went to high school at Royal High alongside multiple friends.
Carlos was a fun, loving and caring man. He loved his family, friends, and music. This made him the life of the party, joking, and putting a smile on the faces of many. Carlos is survived by his parents, Guadalupe and Graciela Rodriguez, fiancé Angelica Ponce, children, Alex, Jasmine, Breanna; Stepchildren, Eleana, Nomar, and Sara; Sisters, Veronica (Aaron) and Vanessa; Brothers, Jorge (Alexis), Michael (Jennifer) and Mark. He had 11 nieces and nephews, countless family and friends.
He is preceded in death by his son, Andrew J Rodriguez, grandparents Augustine and Maria de Jesus Rodriguez and Valentine and Ana Maria Vasquez.

Funeral services will be held at 5135 Leeds St, Simi Valley, Ca. 93063 with an all night viewing. Burial will follow a procession from 5135 Leeds St. to the Cemetery. Rose Family Funeral Home will be handling the funeral arrangements. For the date and time of services, please contact Rose Family Funeral Home at 805-581-3800.

Larry Lee Hicks (January 24, 1965-February 20, 2023)

Larry Lee Hicks born January 24, 1965 passed away February 20, 2023. He was adopted by LaRoyce and Freeman Hicks in 1968. He lived in Ojai, CA and moved to Santa Paula, CA in 1973. He graduated from Fillmore High School in 1983.

Larry had a love for the arts. He learned to play the piano at an early age and played the violin for Ventura’s Symphony Orchestra. His love for the arts didn’t stop there. He traveled the US and into Canada with The Covenant Players. He had many opportunities as an actor, writer and producer of TV, movies, plays, and musicals. The last musical he directed was “Bye, Bye Birdie”, performed by Pacifica High School students.

He is preceded in death by his mother LaRoyce Hicks and his father Freeman Hicks. He is survived by his two brothers Lloyd and Lynn Hicks; sister in law Alicia Hicks; niece Soleil Peacock; and nephew Freeman Hicks.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Monday, May 15, 2023 beginning at 2:00 pm. It will be held at St. Paul’s Episcopal and Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 117 N 7th Street, Santa Paula, CA.

Josephine Loretta (Schleimer) Myers December 1920 – April 2023

After a well lived and traveled 102 years Josephine Myers long time Fillmore resident passed from this life peacefully on Saturday April the 8. Josephine was born December 3, 1920, in Nogales, Arizona, to John and Gertrude Schleimer. She was the oldest of three children. Shortly after Josephine was born, the family moved to Los Angeles and eventually to her beloved Fillmore where she lived for 90 years.

Josephine first visited the Fillmore area when she was 7 years old, her grandfather owned a walnut orchard in lower Bardsdale, and the family spent many weekends and summers at the ranch.
In 1932 the family, Josephine, her mother and her two brothers moved to the Bardsdale area full time. Josephine graduated from Bardsdale Grammar School where she met many lifelong friends. She attended both Fillmore Jr and Senior High Schools graduating with the class of 1939. She often tells of riding her horse from Bardsdale, tying it up behind Corio’s Café and then going to school or the show. There was always a dozen or more horses tied up there.

Shortly after graduation she married life-long Fillmore resident Aaron Myers to whom she was married to for 47 loving years. They had one child Don Myers.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 47 years Aaron, her parents John Leonard Schleimer and Pearl Gertrude (Strider) Schleimer, Brother, long time Fillmore resident, Jack Schleimer, Daughter-in-law Sharon, two great grand babies Elise Goertz and Hanna Swafford and her beloved companion of 27 years Dick Schmittou, whom all the family affectionately referred to as Grampa Dick.

Josephine loved her blended and extended family. She is survived by her son Don and wife Karen Myers of Wilmington N.C., brother Jim and wife Nicki Schleimer of Goodyear, Arizona.

4 Grand Children, Paul and wife Kathy of Denver CO, Nicki and husband Greg of Surf City NC, Kelly of San Diego CA, and Jill and husband Don of Holly Ridge NC.

7 Great Grand Kids all of whom referred to her as Big Gramma. Morgan and husband Jeff of Lacy WA, Michael of Houston TX, Brittney of Raleigh NC, Kayla, and husband Tino of Denver CO, their son, her Great-Great Grandson Trenton, Cameron of Parker CO, Garrett of Charlotte NC, and Emma of San Diego CA.

15 Nieces and Nephews and 31 Grand Nieces and Nephews.

Josephine loved to travel and had many traveling partners, first husband Aaron, Velma Goddard, Natalie Hawthorn and Richard Pyle, her daughter-in-law Karen and finally for the last 27 years with Grampa Dick. Josephine has traveled in all 50 of the United States, 6 of Canadas 10 Providences, most of the Caribbean Islands, parts of Mexico and 9 European Countries.

Josephine was a lifetime member of the Order of the Easter Star, a Masonic organization, in the 70’s she received her 50-year pin. She along with Aaron were active in the Fillmore Dance club, she enjoyed the Ventura County Garden Club, was a member of the Fillmore Ebell Club, a charter member of Fillmore member Potluck Group, (no name no rules, just fun), and a very proud member of the Fillmore High Alumni Association (she missed very few of the annual banquets).

Josephine started working after son Don started school. First, working for her mother catering all over Ventura County, then for Orin Eberly in his Drug Store and ended her career working at the cafeteria at San Cayetano Grammar School. Working there 24 years and retiring when she was 75 years old. She said many times, she knew it was time to retire, when she realized she was serving children of the children she was serving when she first started at the school.

Josephine was happiest when she was with family and friends, whether it was traveling, holiday gatherings or just family gatherings. She must have some 60 plus picture albums of her travels and family gatherings all taken with her ever present instamatic disposable cameras. She was always asking to have pictures taken of her with the Grand and Great Grandchildren. There was no place she’d rather be than with her family.

Josephine’s family would like to extend the deepest appreciation to her Girls who affectionately cared for her daily for the past 3 years: Liz Moten, Norma Vasquez, Delphie Manez, CiCi Chaveste, Delia Larios, Mary Garcia and Kelly Gomez.
And a special thanks to Assisted Hospice Care of Ventura.

Services will be held Friday, May 5th at 11:00am at the Trinity Episcopal Church at 600 Saratoga St Fillmore. The Rev. Lawrence M. Brown, Rector presiding. There will be no public viewing.

Immediately after the service a celebration of Josephine’s life will be held at the Fillmore Museum, 350 Main St., Fillmore. All are welcome, please join the family and celebrate.

It was Josephine’s wishes that any memorial contributions be made to Fillmore Alumni Association, or to Shriners Hospital for Children.

Arrangements will be under the Direction of Perez Family Funeral Home of Camarillo.

Interment will be private at the Bardsdale Cemetery.

Should there be any question they should be directed to: jillshadwell1@gmail.com.

Betty Anna Miller (June 1930-April 2023)

Betty Ann Miller peacefully passed away on Monday, April 3rd, 2023 in Oxnard, California after a long illness.

She was born in a rural part of Tennessee in a log cabin to Dennis Callis and Christine Kizer on June 27, 1930. She grew up with two younger brothers, Sonny and Corky. In her late teens the family moved to Miami, Florida where her father worked for the Navy repairing PT boats.

Betty met the love of her life, Jerl Allen Miller who was stationed in Miami with the Air Force. Jerl and Betty were married on October 21st, 1948. After Jerl completed his military service, they moved to Fillmore where Jerl’s family lived on La Campana Ranch, where they raised three children, Dennis, Jane, and Sheryl.

During Betty’s life she worked as a department store worker, elevator operator at Sears, cleaned houses, and as an apartment manager. Betty was a Brownie and Girl Scout leader and was very active in the First Baptist Church, Fillmore Bible Church, and Faith Community Church and she loved going to Bible Study. Betty also volunteered in her daughter Jane’s elementary classroom where she helped students make art and craft projects. Betty’s joy in life was spending time with her family.

Betty was proceeded in death by her husband Jerl, son Dennis, daughter Sheryl Burgett, son-in-law Charles Burgett and granddaughter Kimberly Burgett.

Betty is survived by her daughter Jane Munoz (John), grandson Michael Munoz (Melanie), granddaughter Amanda Morris (David) 12 great-grandchildren, sister Nancy Cottrell (Keith), sister Denise Legieza of Florida, and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Faith Community Church, 335 D Street, Fillmore, California on Saturday, April 29th at 1:00 pm.

A private family burial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Faith Community Church or the American Cancer Society.

Michele Lee “Mikki” Brown (January 1948 – April 2023)

Michele Lee “Mikki” Brown, 75, of Fillmore, California, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, April 2, 2023, from Parkinson’s related causes. Mikki was born in Ames, Iowa to Robert and Marie Whiteside. She attended Ventura High School and graduated in 1966.

Mikki battled Parkinson’s for 17 years. She was a fun loving and caring wife, mother, sister and friend who faced life honestly with dignity and courage. Mikki and Bob fought valiantly to maintain normalcy in her life. She never complained or asked “why me?”

She loved to travel around the United States with Bob and close friends in their motorhome and quite often would stay out at the Rincon State Beach. She was extremely creative and enjoyed making beautiful silk floral arrangements for friends and family. She was always open for anything and especially loved going out to eat, shopping and exploring new places.
She is survived by her husband of 48 years - Robert “Bob” Brown, daughter Stephanie “Stevi” Jeffery, step-son Bobby (Silvia), grandson RJ, sister Pat Whiteside Tremayne, brother-in-laws Duane and Jerry (Charlene) Brown along with several nieces and nephews.
Mikki requested no service. The family is asking in lieu of flowers, donations be made in her name to the Parkinson Research Foundation https://Parkinsonhope.org.

Alyce Margaret (Kuehl) Richardson (December 1935 – March 2023)

Alyce was born and raised in Davenport, Iowa. Her deceased parents were Harold and Ethel Kuehl. Her deceased brothers were Wayne and George Kuehl and a sister Marilyn (died from a car accident at the age of 4). Alyce lived in Davenport until the age of 12 when she and her parents moved to Monterey Park, California.
She attended Inez elementary school and Mark Keppel High School there and graduated from MK in 1950. One of her most proudest moments was receiving a CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT AWARD for not having missed a single day of absence during her 4 years at Mark Keppel. She was a very good tennis player as well!
Following graduation Alyce went to work for 10 years at the Bank of America where she work up to HEAD TELLER. In 1958, while still at the B of A, she married Charles Richardson and at her death she and Charles had just celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary this past January 5, 2023 reaching the very unusual time of 65 years, 2 months and 2 days!
That marriage produced three children, La Von (Richardson) Funk, Craig and Jeff. Those 3 children produced 7 grand children and those 7 produced 9 great grand children. She was very proud of that fact! At one time or another, she had met all 16 of her grand children.
When her husband Charles graduated from California State University in 1967, Alyce returned to school and earned a Associate in Science degree in nursing in 1970 from Mt San Antonio City College. That year she passed the State of California Nursing Exam and became a Registered Nurse.
She then went to work for Queen of the Valley Hospital in West Covina, California where she worked there for 24 years retiring as Head Nurse of the hospital on the midnight shift. Each morning she reported to the CEO of QVH detailing any significant events that the entire hospital had experienced during her 7 PM to 7 AM shift.
She and Charles and daughter La Von (9 months old) lived in San Dimas for 9 months then moved to their first house which they bought in Covina in 1959 where they lived for 5 years. Then they moved into little larger house in West Covina, CA for 9 years. Their final moved was into a much larger house in Walnut, CA where the lived for 24 years.
When they finally retired, in 1996, they took up residence in Stormville, New York two properties away from Charles' brother and wife (Gerry & Barbara Richardson). They bought a very nice 2 acre and 3500 square foot house and lived there for 8 years. But, Alas, snow got the best of them and they moved back to California in August, 2004. They took up residence at the El Dorado Estates Mobile Home Park on November 14, 2004.

Their stay in NY was cut short after Alyce broke shoulder shoving snow. They both wondered why, while in there 70s, are "we fighting the snow issues"? So, they purchased a 2000 square foot beautiful modular unit and loved settling down in the quaint little town of Fillmore, CA. being near their daughter, La Von Richardson Funk who lives in Oakview, CA, their primary support person, who lives there with her husband Guy Funk.
Alyce was an accomplished crochet artist and earned many awards for her beautiful blankets that she produced. The ribbons she won still hang on her "I love me" wall! She made magnificent blankets for all her grand children, many for veterans and many for her good friends. Everyone showered her with admiring compliments over her beautiful blankets! She crochets right up until here death. Her coffin will be covered with one of her grandest works, the AMERICAN FLAG (which earned 1st place at the Ventura County Fair in 2010).
Alyce, with her husband Charles, were instrumental in establishing the new St. Lorenzo Catholic Church in Walnut, CA in 1984. The church there held it's very first service in a rented/converted to church facility warehouse. In 5 years the grandest of church buildings was dedicated and parishioners moved from the warehouse to the newly completed ST. LORENZO CATHOLIC CHURCH!
She and Charles are members of the St. Francis Catholic Church in Fillmore and have been for going on 19 years. On January 7, 2023 the parish priest Fr. Ponds celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary with a Mass dedicated to them and said marriage prayers on their behalf. The congregation erupted with thunderous applause!
While in Fillmore, Alyce donated a lot of time to the Convalescent Facility there and was a member of the Club who raised money for the facility and residents who live there in Fillmore.
A rosary and viewing at the Perez Funeral Home, 600 N. Central Ave, Fillmore and will occur on Thursday, April 13, 2023 at 6:00PM. At 10 AM, the celebration mass for her will be on Friday, April 14 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 1248 W. Ventura St., in Fillmore.
Burial services will be at the Bardsdale Cemetery following mass. Following interment attendees are invited to join the family at the church hall for food and a video remembrance of her life with family and friends.
Alyce was admired and view by her many friends and relatives for being a very kind, loving and sincere lady. She was a wonderful mother and wife. She will be missed but never forgotten.

Arturo Robles Lugo (April 1956-March 2023)

Arturo Robles Lugo passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 13th, 2023.

Art was born on April 6th, 1956, in Ventura, Ca. Art was preceded in death by his parents
Adolfo and Grace Lugo and his brothers Eddie Lugo and Frank Lugo. He is survived by his sisters Lupe Hernandez, Alicia Alverdi, Graciela Lugo, ex-wife Joyce Lugo, in Laws Raymond & Alma Ponce, Brothers-in-laws Fred, Lonnie, & Ray Ponce Jr. & Sister-in-Law Faith Lugo and his many nieces, nephews, great nieces & nephews and a great, great niece and many, many friends, cousins and extended family. Art was a lifelong Ventura County resident. He grew up in Fillmore attended Fillmore Schools and graduated Fillmore High School in 1974 where he played Football. Art worked for several local business where he made many lifelong friends including Rockwell, Teledyne and most recently at the California Tactical Academy in Piru as Range Master. He had also been a Ventura County Volunteer Fireman for 30 years. Art was President of the Trout Slayers a Fishing Club, a brotherhood of friends really and they gave back to the community by supporting The Fillmore Flashes Booster Club by raising money with The Trout Slayers BBQ, at Elkins Ranch Golf Course helping with FHS Alumni Events like Casino Night & hanging banners at the field & around town. They would take their yearly trips to Lake Crowley in the Eastern Sierras. Art enjoyed BBQing, cooking, firearms, fishing, sports, photography and reading books. We will miss him dearly. Art’s celebration of Life will be held on April 14th, 2023, at 10am at San Salvador Mission Church 4045 E. Center St. Piru, CA 93040 Followed by a reception on church grounds. Art’s Burial will be on April 19th, 2023, at 11am at Bardsdale Cemetery in Fillmore, 1698 S Sespe St, Fillmore, CA 93015.

Ryan Eric Oge (August 1989- March 2023)

Ryan Eric Oge passed on March 29th, 2023. Ryan was born on August 4th, 1989 and is survived by his parents Marvin and Joy Oge who resided in Fillmore, CA for 18 years, brother Will Foster of Summerville, SC. Ryan’s wife Rebecca and son Simon Oge of Louisville,CO. Ryan graduated from Fillmore High School in 2007 and was on the Fillmore High School Swim Team. Ryan moved to Wyoming in 2009 to attend WyoTech and after graduation moved to Brighton CO where he worked for RTD until 2020. Ryan married wife Rebecca on December 31st, 2018. Ryan and Rebecca welcomed son Simon on August 9th, 2020. Ryan, wife Rebecca and son Simon moved to Louisville CO in 2021. Ryan was surrounded by many loved ones and friends upon his passing and will be forever in our hearts and memories

Viola Maxine Holley Merry (June 1931 – January 2023)

Viola Maxine Holley Merry (known to all as “Maxine”), age 91, passed away on Saturday, January 14, 2023 in Gig Harbor, Washington, after a short illness.
Maxine was born on June 5, 1931 in Wilson, Oklahoma to James Claudie and Gracie Ellen Taylor. James and Ellen Taylor, along with their five children, made the long trip to California in 1936 and settled in Fillmore.
Maxine attended schools in the Fillmore School District through high school; later attending Ventura College and obtaining her AA degree in 1993. Maxine was involved in many clubs during her high school years, including the Art Club, Stage Craft, Ushers Club, Junior and Senior Tri-Y, and Student Council Commissioner of Advertisement. During high school, Maxine started attending Fillmore Presbyterian Church where she met Bernard L. Holley. Maxine later married Bernard on July 21, 1948. They moved to their home on the Holley Ranch on Cliff Avenue, surrounded by orange and avocado trees and the beauty of the San Cayetano Mountain as their backyard view. Bernard and Maxine had four children, Janice, Patrick, Jeanne and Jonathan. During the years while the children were young, Bernard and Maxine took many trailer camping trips and trips to the beach. The family was very involved in the Presbyterian Church (later Fillmore Bible Church) and attended many church activities and participated in Sunday School and other weekday groups there. Bernard and Maxine were married for 43 years until Bernard’s death in 1991 from Parkinson’s Disease.
Maxine loved traveling and traveled to various countries through the years, Greece, Italy, Ireland, just to name a few, keeping photographs and journals from her travels. She also loved traveling to Hawaii. She traveled with groups of people she didn’t know, as well as with friends and family.
Maxine reconnected with Stanley Merry, a family friend and local Fillmore man and they married in 1999. Maxine and Stan did a substantial amount of traveling during their years together, locally, by air and many cruises. Both Stan and Maxine had homes in Fillmore; Stan in the Bardsdale area and Maxine on the Cliff Ave Ranch. Stan and Maxine split their time between the two homes until Stan’s death in 2007.
Maxine was always an avid reader. In her younger years, the gift of choice from her brothers was books! She loved literature of all kinds and read over 230 books in one year a few years ago. She made sure to reach 100 books read in 2022 by finishing a biography of Paul Newman on New Year’s Eve 2022! In addition to her reading, Maxine loved word games in the newspaper, and was always up for a Scrabble game with close friends or family. Maxine was devout in her Christian faith and her reading included religious devotional books and the Bible.
Maxine was quite artistic from a young age and continued her gift of drawing and painting throughout her adult life. Art was one of the classes she thoroughly enjoyed at Ventura College during her studies there and she produced some wonderful artwork during that time. Maxine used her art skills at church where the children would gather up front to listen to her presentation of a short message while creating chalk drawings to go along with the message.
Another skill of Maxine’s was cooking. Maxine cooked for the Rotary Club for many years to the delight of many members of the club! She also cooked for the Lion’s Club and other local organizations and private celebrations when requested. Maxine loved preparing food and inviting friends and family for dinners and also baking and taking food to friends and family, whether needed or not, just because that’s who she was! During her last year, while living in Gig Harbor, WA with her daughter and son-in-law, she got very involved in watching The Great British Bake Off with them and enjoyed that thoroughly.
Maxine loved flowers and maintained roses, annuals and perennials in her yard. She loved seeing the hummingbirds and kept them well fed. Maxine also enjoyed the other wildlife that came to “visit” now and again; deer, coyotes and an occasional bear! She created beautiful flower bouquets to keep in her house, for other people and for the church.
Maxine was a member of the Ventura County Garden Club and the local PEO Chapter in Fillmore for many years. The meetings, outings and friendships were such an important part of Maxine’s life in Fillmore.
In 2022, Maxine made the decision to sell the Cliff Avenue Ranch and move to Gig Harbor, WA to live with her daughter, Jeanne and husband, Robert. Maxine came to enjoy all aspects of the Pacific NW, including the weather! She loved that she could look out any window of the house and see flowers. She continued to keep in close touch with family and friends through e-mail, phone calls and her lovely cards and notes. Maxine enjoyed her time with the WA family (even the resident dog and cats), going on outings to local nurseries, getting acquainted with the local library, going to a live production in Seattle, and trying new restaurant foods.
Maxine was preceded in death by her parents James Claude and Ellen, and her brothers, J.C. and Boyce (“Cotton”) and her sisters, Geneva and Kathy.
Maxine is survived by her children, Janice Holley, Jeanne Gleim (Robert), and Jonathan Holley. Her son, Patrick preceded her in death in 1974. She is also survived by eight grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren.
Maxine was dearly loved by all her family, friends and acquaintances and she will be greatly missed.
If you wish to make a memorial contribution, the family suggests they be made to the Ventura County Library (Fillmore branch) or the Fillmore High School Alumni Association.