Michael Wayne Henderson (1972-2013)

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

Timothy MacLean Smith (1956-2013)

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

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

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

Darrell Branden Thomas (1937-2013)

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

Simon Carrillo (1932-2013)

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

Gail A. Stoessel (1944-2013)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Edmund J. (Ted) Bailey (1926-2013)

Edmund J. (Ted) Bailey, 87, was born June 15 1926 in Los Angeles, CA and passed away suddenly after a long illness at home with his wife by his side on July 18, 2013. He was a Ventura County resident since Dec 1969 for 43 years.
He graduated from USC in 1953 with two Bachelor’s Degrees in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering. Immediately following graduation from USC in 1953 Ted went to work for Union Oil Co. where he spent his entire career becoming the company’s expert in the handling of natural gas and gas liquids, retiring in 1989 after 40 years. Upon graduation from high school in 1944 Ted was drafted into the Air Force where spent 2 years in Okinawa before being honorably discharged in 1947. Ted grew up in Pini where he attended grammar school. He attended Fillmore High School where he met his future wife Anita Jane Elkins. They were married in 1951 and enjoyed nearly 62 years of marriage. Ted loved his job and the traveling it involved and was often flown by the company’s private jet around the world to help resolve complicated problems. He enjoyed many trips to places such as Indonesia, England. Netherlands. Etc. working on special projects. He and Anita enjoyed many wonderful historical trips around the U.S. such as following the entire Oregon Trail from Missouri to Oregon and the trail of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
Ted also enjoyed spending time at their vacation cabin at Camp Scheideck near Mt. Pinos. He was so very proud of his five grandchildren and their many accomplishments especially their college education.
Survived by his loving wife Anita (Elkins) Bailey, daughter Mary Ellen (Bailey) Gravel and son-in-law Gus Gravel all of Valencia, CA, daughter- in-law Wendy Bailey of Kernville, CA and his five grandchildren Kelly, Patrick and Garret Bailey and Desiree and Cameron Gravel, all of Valencia, CA. Preceded in death by his son Robert (Rob) Bailey in 2007.
Funeral will be held on Thursday, July 25, 2013 at 10 a.m. at Skillin-Carroll Mortuary 600 Central Ave, Fillmore, CA. followed by interment at Bardsdale Cemetery. Memorial gifts may be sent to Fillmore High School Alumni Association, PO Box 385, Fillmore, CA 93016 or a charity of your choice. Please sign the guest book at
obits.VenturaCountyStar.

Fred R. Howarth (1930-2013)

A longtime resident of Fillmore spanning sixty years, Fred R. Howarth, died Saturday, July 6th following a brief illness. He was 83-years-old and was surrounded by family at the time of his passing.
Fred was born on June 11, 1930 and moved to Santa Paula in 1942. A student and graduate of Santa Paula High Class of ’49, Fred was involved in school activities including being a member of the Varsity tennis team. Following graduation, Fred attended Cal Poly majoring in Agriculture before being drafted in the Korean War where he ranked as Master Sargent.
Upon discharge, Fred moved to Fillmore in 1953. In 1956, Fred married his wife Janet. Together, they became active in the Farm Bureau Young People’s Group. They started a family with daughter Joan and son John.
While raising his young family, Fred became a successful citrus rancher; owning and managing his ranch in Bardsdale which he maintained for the next sixty years. During this time, Fred also served as a Field Representative for Calavo Avocados from 1969-1984 and was recognized as one of the company’s
“Top Field Representatives” in 1971.
Fred was raised to the sublimed degree of Master Mason in 1963 in Fillmore Masonic Lodge No. 379 F. & A.M. of the State of California. He served as Master in 1969 and was a fifty-plus year member of Fillmore-Santa Paula Masonic Lodge No. 29l to which he received his fifty-year pin honoring his membership and service.
In 1992, Fred was honored with the HIRAM Award, the highest honor a Lodge can bestow on one of its members. Fred was a member of the Santa Barbara Scottish Rite of Freemasonary of U.S.A., a Charter member of the Ventura County Scottish Rite of Freemasonary of the U.S.A., a member of the York Rite Bodies of Freemasons of California, a member of Al Malakah Shrine of North America, The Fillmore-Santa Paula Shrine Club and a member of Shriners International. In addition, Fred mentored the Jobs Daughters Bethel No. 90 and served as Associate Bethel Guardian for ten years.
A long standing member of the Trinity Episcopal Church in Fillmore, Fred served on the Vestry and was active in the Church’s agenda, participating in numerous fundraisers and outreach. His Christian faith was always the center of his life.
Fred’s pride was his family followed by his passion and love for boating. Summers and holidays were spent in Nevada City where the family enjoyed a second home in the mountains aptly named “The Hollow Leg Ranch.”
A Caring husband, father and grandfather, Fred is survived by his wife Janet Howarth of 57 years, daughter Joan Swift (Tim), son John Howarth (Barbara) and, his biggest pride and joy, grandson Kyle and granddaughter Sara.
Masonic graveside services with military honors will be held on Friday, July 26th at 11:00 am at Bardsdale Cemetary.
Church services will be held on Saturday, July 27th at 2:00 pm at Trinity Church,
in Fillmore. A reception in the parish hall will follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made in the name of
Fred Howarth to further the ministry of Trinity Episcopal Church,
PO Box 306, Fillmore, CA 93015.

R. Conway Spitler (1921-2013)

The family of R. Conway Spitler is sad to announce his passing on July 7, 2013.
Conway, as he is best known, was born March 3, 1921 in Santa Paula, California. He lived his early life in Fillmore, California graduating from Fillmore High School in 1938. He continued his education at Antelope Valley Junior College and received his Bachelor of Arts from San Jose State College in 1942. After graduation he enlisted in the US Army where he serviced with the Seventh Corp and landed at Omaha Beach on Day D +1. After the war he returned to Stanford University where he received his Master of Arts.
For many years he taught business education at Salinas High School in Salinas, California and eventually became assistant principal at that same school. He left teaching for several years but returned to southern California and became a business education teacher at William S. Hart Union High School.
He retired from teaching and enjoyed working in his garden, hooked rugs, working with the computer and growing his orchid plants. He was well known for his participation in the Fillmore Flower Show and for walking around Fillmore giving flowers to his many friends and acquaintances.
He was then drawn back to becoming involved in the development of the Fillmore High School Alumni Association where he became its executive director. He spend many hours encouraging his fellow alumni to get involved and contribute back to the organization so scholarship could be provided to graduates of Fillmore High School who wish to continue their education.
He was preceded in death by his wife Ottilie Spitler. He is survived by his two sons Thomas Spitler and Russell Spitler, two grandchildren Joshua and Megan and a new great granddaughter Clara.
If you would like to make a donation in Conway’s memory please consider a donation to the Fillmore High Alumni Association.

Lupe C. Dominguez (1918-2013)

Lupe C. Dominguez, 94 of Fillmore passed away peacefully after a lengthy illness with Alzheimer's surrounded by her family on Tuesday, June 18, 2013. She was born on August 31, 1918 in Aguas Caliente, Mexico, and later in life was proud of becoming a U.S. Citizen.
Lupe married the love of her life, Pula Dominguez on October 31, 1943. They moved to Newhall Ranch where they lived for 46 years, and during that time they raised their four daughters. She worked for many years at the Piru Packing House, and later went to work at Henry Mayo Hospital, where she retired. Lupe always had a sense of humor, or a funny story. She loved listening to music, and loved to dance. She was a loving, generous person. She enjoyed her trips to Las Vegas, camping, fishing, and spending time with her family.
Lupe was preceded in death by her husband, Pula Dominguez, her parents Marcos and Gregoria Cardona, and two sisters Monica Castro and Elsie Cardona. She is survived by her three sisters, Jennie Herrera, Amelia Mulberry, Penny Cardona and one brother Tino Cardona. Her four daughters, Diane(Steven Breig), Susie Herrera, Margaret (Ron Perea), and Dee (Enrique Alvarez), 10 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren.
We would like to express our gratitude to the Staff of the Fillmore Convalescent Center for their loving care, and to Robert Rey Garcia Jr Funeral Services in assisting our family with funeral and graveside arrangements.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 10:00a.m., Tuesday, June 25, 2013 at Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Fillmore, CA. Committal & Interment followed at Bardsdale Cemetery.
To sign the family's online guestbook, share stories, and post pictures please visit our website: www.santapaulafuneralhome.com and click on Lupe's name located below "Recent Obituaries".
Funeral Arrangements were under the direction of the family owned and operated Robert Rey Garcia Jr. Funeral Services, Santa Paula 805.229.7054

Kathleen (Kay) J. Dray (1924-2013)

Kathleen J. Dray (8-31-24 to 6-14-2013) was born in London, England to Emily Grace and William E. Pedler, and was the second youngest of 7 children.
Kay grew up through the aftermath of World War 1 and the depression. She excelled in school and was on the swim team.
She worked in a London Hotel until a revision of the Child Labor Law prevented children under 14 from working.
Kay worked in a bakery 6 days a week, through her mid-teens, until the building was bombed killing her best friends.
In 1943, at the age of 18, Kay married Francis H. Dray whom she had known since she was 14. He was in the army and sent to Euope and Norway during World War II.
Losing family and friends during the war. She was known to make a meal from the meager food rations for people visiting or had run out of their rations.
Her only daughter Susan was born in 1945 during a buzz bomb raid on London. When Susan was 7 she returned to work. In 1971 Kay and Frank followed their daughter to the USA making their home in California. In 1989 they moved to Fillmore to be closer to their family.
Kay was known as a beautiful lady, with a lovely sense of humor, a kind heart and a love of animals. She had a passion for gardening and music. She loved to travel, camping throughout England and Europe and returned to England regularly.
Kay is survived by her daughter Susan, her three grandchildren, Dray, Taurie and Davin ( Segio Casas), and her great grandson Sabian. Kay will be missed by all her family and friends around the world. She will long be remebered for her kindness and generousity and remained a true English Lady.
Funeral service will be graveside at the Bardsdale Cemetery, Firday at 2 pm, followed by a gathering at the house on Bardsdale Avenue to celebrate her life. In lieu of flowers, Donations can be made to the Fillmore Women's Service Club COMMUNITY SCHOLARSHIP FUND. www.fillmorewomensserviceclub.com

Pauline Campbell (1930-2013)

Pauline Campbell was released from this earth on June 11, 2013. Born in Blythville, Ark. on May 14, 1930, she was mother, grandmother, great- grandmother, sister, aunt and dear friend.
Born at the beginning of the Great Depression, her family was forced to send her to live with her aunt Sally Abbott in Fillmore when she was nine years old. She graduated from Fillmore High in 1949 and married Bill Jim Campbell in 1950. Together they had four children, daughter Terry Kaye and sons James Martin, John Allen and Robin Lee. After Bill passed away in 1972 she moved shortly to Lancaster where she lived for over 30 years.
A definite people person, she worked in the convalescent industry in various positions and was an active member of the American Eagles in Lancaster serving as president and chaplain of the “Aerie”, the women’s portion of the club.
Aside from her family and friends, her two great loves were cooking and crafts and she was excellent at both. She rarely turned down an opportunity to help anyone with either.
In addition to her children, she is survived by grandson Kevin, greatgranddaughters Kaya and Kaylone, daughter-in-law Nancy (John) as well as sisters Mary and Bobbie.
The family would also like to extend an issue of thanks to Fillmore Convalescent Hospital for caring for our mother in her last trying years. Living in that world is never easy.

Kathy A. Otis (1942-2013)

March 27, 1942 - May 28, 2013
Born in Perry, Michigan
Kathy A. Otis of Fillmore passed away in Mission Viejo on May 28, 2013 at the age of 71. Kathy was a long time resident of El Dorado Mobile Home Estates in Fillmore. She was active in her community and remained committed to St. Francis of Assisi, the Catholic Church she called home. Kathy was a loving wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, sister, sister-in-law and aunt. Over the years in Fillmore, Kathy created an amazing network of friends in her community. She touched the lives of many and she will be remembered and celebrated for the love she showed all those she came in contact with. Kathy is survived by her three sons, John Otis (wife Donna), Chuck Otis (wife Chris), Bill Otis, her six grandchildren, Maddy, Kamran, Keean, Kellie, Katie, and Kylie and by her brother, Ron Murphy and his family.
A rosary and memorial service will be held at St. Francis of Assisi in Fillmore:
Rosary on June 30, 2013 at 7:30 pm
Memorial Service on July 1, 2013 at 9:30 - reception immediately following Graveside Service on July 1, 2013 scheduled for 12 noon at Bardsdale Cemetary.

Pearlee Broughton (1924-2013)

Our loving mother, sister, grandmother, great grandmother, great great grandmother Pearlee Broughton of Fillmore, passed away on Friday, May 24, 2013, at the age of 89.
Pearlee was born on April 17, 1924 in Lavaca Arkansas. She was the eldest child of 10 children.
Pearlee was married to William (Bill) Broughton on September 15, 1942 and has been reunited with him now in heaven. She was the mother of 4 children and is survived by her daughter Karen Broughton. Also preceding her in death, Pearlee had a daughter Shirley Wheatley, and 2 sons Jesse and Wayne Broughton. She also had 13 grandchildren, 31 great grandchildren, 16 great great grandchildren, 6 sisters and 3 brothers and many nieces and nephews.
In her youth she worked in the oil fields as a yard tender, she also worked in the cotton fields in Bakersfield Ca. she worked at the packing house in Fillmore and the Bra Factory in Fillmore. She enjoyed life by playing Bingo at the senior center in Fillmore where she was also active for 36 years as a volunteer for Food Share. She loved the trips to Las Vegas with her family, and her daily hobby was playing video hand held games. Pearlee was loved greatly and will be missed by all her loved ones she had in her life, remaining always in our hearts until we meet again.
Graveside Memorial service were held Tuesday, June 11, at 10:00 am. At the Bardsdale Cemetery.

Steve E. Wren (1949-2013)

Steve E. Wren quietly passed away at home in Fillmore May 25, 2013 after a long illness at age 64. He was born in Santa Paula, California May 11, 1949 and was the only son of Gene and Marie Wren.
After Steve graduated from Fillmore High School he joined the Army and served a year in Vietnam where he received a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star. He also had the Air Medal with Three Oak Leaf Clusters with the usual campaign medals for his service with both the 39th and 60th Infantry.
Steve worked at Kenney Grove Park near Fillmore for over 15 years before moving to ranch work for the next ten years. When his health failed, he returned to Fillmore to be near his mother who provided care and transportation for him until his death.
Steve was honored with Life Membership in the Fillmore VFW and was a member of the Fillmore Presbyterian Church as a teen and local Boy Scout Troop 406. He loved the out-of-doors and nature everywhere. His favorite past time was writing poetry and Indian and science fiction stories. Steve will be remembered as a very kind, caring and generous friend to everyone.
Steve is survived by his mother, Marie Wren of Fillmore, sisters Kathryn Wren Gavlak (Ray) of Vacaville and Jessica Vincent (Greg) of Ridgecrest, nephews Andrew Beekman (Sara), Patrick Beekman and Jon Beekman with great niece Siena Beekman, and aunt, Geraldine Furr of Oxnard. He was preceded in death by his father, Gene Wren of Fillmore.
Graveside funeral services will be held on Friday June 14th at Bardsdale Cemetery at 11 a.m. Retired Col. John Gritz will be in charge of the service with Greg Vincent leading the Patriot Guard Riders as escorts.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Fillmore Alumni Scholarship Fund, Box 385, Fillmore, Ca 93016. Skillin-Carroll Mortuary will be in charge.

Donna Rene U Reeder (1933–2013)

Donna Rene U Reeder November 14, 1933 – April 23, 2013
Wife of Fred Reeder and sister Sharon, passed away in San Marcos, Tx. She worked for the US Post Office. Mother of 4, 9 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, 6 great great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Donna will be interred with grave side Memorial Service on Saturday, June 8th 10:00 am. Bardsdale Cemetery 1698 South Sespe, Fillmore Ca. 93015.

William F. Reeder (1917–2013)

William F. Reeder April 3, 1917 – April 28, 2013
William was born in Fillmore and worked at People Lumber Co. in Santa Paula. Was a World War II Captain, was a father of 5 boys: Fred, John, Wayne, Sam, Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren. William will be interred with grave side Memorial Service on Saturday, June 8th 10:00 am. Bardsdale Cemetery 1698 South Sespe, Fillmore Ca. 93015.

Robert Grazier Peterson (1922-2013)

Robert Grazier Peterson-10/24/1922 to 5/1/2013
Grandpa Bob slipped the bounds of earth and got his angels wings after a long and happy life. He was a man of quiet nature who carefully considered his words when speaking. He graduated Penn State with his first Bachelor’s degree in Animal Husbandry. Then Bob served in the US Navy during World War II and the Korean War as a Lieutenant Commander aboard an LST Landing Craft. He continued serving the US Navy as a reserve officer and later honorably retired from service. While working and supporting a family, Bob completed his Bachelor’s degree in Engineering and then a Master’s degree in Accounting. Bob worked for General Electric, Rocketdyne, and eventually retired from Lockheed. After retiring, Bob received his CPA license and worked in Post Falls, Idaho and Fillmore, California for many years providing financial advice and preparing tax forms. He also volunteered many hours with his church and as a member of the Fillmore Lions Club. Bob has lived and worked in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Ohio, Idaho, and California in Glendora, Simi Valley, Glendale, Fillmore, and Port Hueneme. He is predeceased by his first wife, Dorothy Gill Peterson, and second wife, Gladys Densmore Peterson. Bob is survived by his loving wife Margaret Barber Peterson, brother Warren Peterson; sons David, Ronald, Robert Jr. and Jerome, step-children Margaret Hoffman, Raymond Bond, Brian Barber, Robert Barber, Ann Barber, and David Barber; grandchildren Kelsey Peterson-Bannan, Brian, Austin and Alex Peterson and great-grandchild Olive Peterson. Arrangements are by the Neptune Society. A celebration of Bob’s life will be held at Bardsdale United Methodist Church in Fillmore on June 8th at 11:00.

Myrtle (“Myrt”) Martha (Minneman) Brothers (1929-2013)

Myrtle (“Myrt”) Martha (Minneman) Brothers, educator, musician, lover of people and of the outdoors, died in Davis, California on April 23 at the age of 83.
Myrt was born August 8, 1929, in Dayton, Ohio, where she was raised. She attended Ball State Teacher’s College (now Ball State University) in Muncie, Indiana, where she met John Brothers, whom she married on June 11, 1949. Upon completing their education at Ball State, Myrt and John migrated west, living for two years in Alto, Texas before settling in Calipatria, California in1953. In Calipatria Myrt gave birth to the last of four sons and began her long career as a teacher.
In the summer of 1958 the family moved to Fillmore, California, settling in a home on the corner of Chambersburg Road (Highway 23) and Riverside Avenue, in Bardsdale. Soon after arriving in Bardsdale, Myrt became a member of the Bardsdale United Methodist Church, where both she and John remained deeply committed throughout their time in Fillmore. She also became a member of the Fillmore Chapter GY of the PEO, in which she served for many years.
Within a short time of her arrival in Fillmore, Myrt began teaching kindergarten at Sespe Elementary School, a position she held for 29 years. In this capacity, she influenced a host of children. Myrt was a dynamic educator: energetic, creative, and always open to innovation. Her students remember her as an energetic, enthusiastic, graceful, and loving presence in the classroom. Particularly sensitive to the needs of Fillmore’s large Hispanic community, she learned Spanish in order to communicate affectively with her Spanish-speaking students and their parents.
Myrt was an excellent musician and pianist; she accompanied Fillmore singer Angela Young in numerous concerts and performed many duo piano recitals with John. She also sang in a female a cappella trio and was involved as a singer and pianist in the music program at her church. In retirement from teaching, she sang with John in the Ventura Master Chorale.
Myrt enjoyed physical activity and the outdoors. She loved the Sierras of California, where she camped and backpacked many summers with John and her sons. She also enjoyed day sailing in the Ventura Harbor. Myrt thrived on physical exercise and for several years rode her bike before sunup to her work. She liked to travel and enjoyed trips within the U.S. and to Europe, Latin America, and New Zealand with John.
Myrt was a giving person. She enjoyed opening her home to others and making them feel welcome; her well-attended Thanksgiving dinners were legendary. She delighted in delivering baked treats to coworkers and friends at Christmastime. She loved her family and enjoyed nothing more than having her home full of sons, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and friends.
Myrt was beloved by many and will be fondly remembered for her vivacious personality, her boundless energy, and her generous hospitality. She is survived by her husband John, her sister Millie, and her four sons and their families, including nine grandchildren and four great grandchildren. A memorial service is scheduled for June 22 at 4:00 p.m. at Dixon United Methodist Church, 209 North Jefferson Street, Dixon, California. John Brothers may be contacted at 1111 Alvarado Ave. #238, Davis, CA 95616. Gifts in Myrt’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Esther Ramirez Robles (1927-2013)

Esther Ramirez Robles, 86 years young, of Fillmore passed away on May 16, 2013. She was born in Los Angeles, the daughter of Pablo and Guadalupe Ramirez, and was a resident of Ventura County for 84 years. Esther was raised on the Rancho Sespe in Ventura County and lived there until she relocated to Fillmore with her husband, Nicolas, in 1980.
A devoted wife, mother and grandmother, she will be remembered with much love for her bawdy sense of humor, her outstanding ability to cook, and her artistic talent for drawing and crocheting. Esther loved to laugh and she loved to dance and listen to all types of music. She found great pleasure in her work as a teacher’s aide for the Fillmore School District and those she knew through that effort will remember her fondly.
Esther is joining those members of her family who preceded her, her parents Pablo and Guadalupe, her brothers Raul and Raymond, her sister Carman Davis and her granddaughter, Tracilyn Robles Arteaga.
She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Nicolas (Nick), her children Hortencia, her husband Jeffrey Parker and their children Bryan, Jessica and Amanda, her son Nicolas Jr, and his children Jennifer Robles Polanco, Veronica and David, her daughter Suzanne and her husband Russell Butler and their son, Samuel. Esther was the proud great grandmother of twelve. She is also survived by her eight brothers and sisters, Rachel Calzada, Henry Ramirez, Paul Ramirez, Jr, Art Ramirez, Tommy Ramirez, Linda Venegas, Gilbert Ramirez, Anita Limon.
Visitation will be held at the Skillin-Carroll Mortuary, 600 Central Ave., Fillmore, on Monday, June 3, 2013, between 2 pm and 9 pm, with a Rosary at 7 pm. A mass will be conducted at St. Francis of Assisi Parish at 1048 W. Ventura St., Fillmore on Tuesday, June 4, at 10:15 am, with burial immediately following at the Pierce Bros Cemetery in Santa Paula.