July 9, 1931 - October 18, 2013
Inez Gonzalez passed away at her home surrounded by family and friends on Friday, October 18, 2013 at 5:00pm.
She is survived by her three daughters, four sons and loving grandchildren.
A rosary will be held at Skillin-Carroll Chapel, 600 N Central Avenue, Fillmore, CA 93015 on Friday, October 25, 2013 from 11:30 to 12:00pm. Followed by a mass at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 1048 Ventura Street & Hwy. 126 at 12:30pm Graveside to follow at Pierce Brothers Santa Paula Cemetery, 380 Cemetery Road, Santa Paula, CA 93060.
Louise Garcia was born on June 25, 1943 Jalisco, Mexico and passed away on October 04, 2013 in Ventura, CA at the age of 70 years old. Louise was a resident of Ventura County for 65 years.
She enjoyed crossword puzzles, collected glass figurines, birds and gardening.
She is survived by her husband: Phillip Garcia, Sister: Rosie, Sons: Richard Garcia Sr., Victor Garcia (daughter-in-law Ana Garcia); Phillip Garcia Jr.; Grandchildren: Richard Jr., Angelita, Victor Jr., Leonard, Julian, Kristian, Anthony, Desiree. Great Grandchildren: Alex, Tyson, Zachariah, Danny, Jamie.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 9, 2013 from 5:00 to 9:00pm at Skillin-Carroll Mortuary 600 N Central Ave., Fillmore.
Funeral Mass will be Thursday October 10, 2013 at 10:00am at St. Francis of Assisi in Fillmore.
Burial will follow at Bardsdale Cemetery.
John “Johnny” Chaveste was born on June 3, 1916 in Fillmore, Ca and passed away on September 11, 2013 in Fillmore, Ca. He was 97 years old.
John was a lifelong Fillmore resident and was employed with Ventura County Fruit Growers retiring after 50 years of service. He was also a proud WWII veteran of the United States Army. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends as well as cooking, gardening and was a fan of baseball and boxing. He was a friend to many and will be dearly missed.
He is reunited with his wife, Virginia, parents, Julian and Petra, siblings Frank, Josefina, Simon and Pauline.
He is survived by daughter and son-in-law, Melissa and Phillip, granddaughters, Eva-Marie and Emily, nephew Steve, nieces Doreen and Brittany, grand nephew Falcon, as well as numerous nephews, nieces and ffiends.
John’s services will be on Monday, October 7, 2013 at Santa Rosa Church (668 S. Workman St, San Fernando, CA 91340) at 10:30am. Burial will follow at Ivy Lawn Cemetery in Ventura, Ca.
Ronnie Fred "Droop" Smith, a resident of Fillmore for more than half a century, died suddenly on Monday, the 9th of September, of chronic heart disease. He had been horseback riding with friends. He raised and trained American Paint Horses and was a long time amateur team roper.
Ron was also known for his participation in local sports. He coached Cassidy Girls Softball in the seventies, T-ball and Women's Softball in the eighties. In the nineties he coached youth softball and basketball for the LDS church athletic program and was a player-coach for the men's softball teams in both the city church leagues and the LDS men's athletic program.
Ron is survived by his wife of forty-nine years, five children, ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind one sister and nieces and nephews.
Services were held on September 17th at the LDS church on First Street, graveside at Bardsdale Cemetery, followed by a luncheon at the church.
Ruth Geno Musgrave was born on January 17, 1917 in Watseka, Illinois to Thomas and Dora Wall. She celebrated her 96th birthday this year with family and friends before passing peacefully to be with her Lord on August 26, 2013 in Fillmore, California after a very brief illness.
Ruth spent her childhood and youth in rural Illinois where she grew up during the lean years of the Depression era with 8 brothers and sisters. She graduated from high school and Illinois Normal College before beginning her teaching profession in Sheldon, Illinois. She married Donald P. Musgrave in 1942 and in pursuit of his medical training resided in Chicago, Washington, D.C., Fullerton, CA, Ventura, CA.,before finally moving to Fillmore where they lived from 1952 until their passing.
During their 55 years together they raised a family of 2 daughters and 1 son. As a homemaker, Ruth was devoted to her family as they are to her. She excelled as a seamstress and never failed to clothe her daughters and son with exceptionally well made outfits and used her sewing talents in home décor. Her involvement in her children’s activities, church and community events lead her to be active in Boy and Girl Scouting, FFA, Ventura County Garden Club, Fillmore Ebell, Fillmore Presbyterian Church as Deaconess, Needlemaster and member of Ruth Circle. She never failed to support her children in their school projects, sports and extracurricular activities. In addition to her outstanding sewing abilities, she was accomplished at gardening, wood working, wood carving, painting, weaving, basketry-she was a true artist. Her love of flowers and birdsis evident throughout her home. Her passion was loving the Lord.An avid bridge player, she taught bridge to many people in Fillmore and still attended 2-3 bridge games a week.
She is survived by the daughter Ann (Gregg), son James (Debra) and daughter, Joy (Gabriel) as well as grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is predeceased by her husband, Donald, parents, brothers and sisters and grandson, Jeffrey.
A day will not pass that she won’t be lovingly remembered for being a wonderful Mother, Grandmother, friend and neighbor. She will be dearly missed.
A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, September 20, 2013 at 7:00 P.M. at the Central Campusof Faith Community Church (formerly Fillmore Bible Church). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Roze Room Hospice of Ventura, 5675 Ralston St., Suite C, Ventura, CA 93003.
Harold R. Southwick of Orem, Utah passed away peacefully on September 4th. He is now reunited with his lifelong sweetheart, June, who passed away in 1992. Harold was born in Ventura, California on September 30, 1927, the fifth of six sons born to James and Leona Southwick. He grew up in Southern California and developed a lifelong love of the citrus groves and beaches in the area. He attended elementary and high school in Fillmore, California. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II and also served an L.D.S. Church mission in North Carolina and Virginia. After his return from military service and the mission, Harold married his high school sweetheart, June Marie Barden, in the St. George Temple.
He attended Ventura City College, Fresno State University, where he graduated with honors, and the University of Southern California with additional graduate studies at the University of California at Berkeley while earning three college degrees.
Harold served for thirty years as an administrator in the California School System with the last fifteen years of his career spent as a district level administrator. He traveled extensively throughout the United States in his professional capacity as he recruited teachers and administrators. He also participated in many seminars and educational conferences.
An active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Harold served in many positions including several bishoprics, YM President, Sunday School President, Executive Secretary, Stake Music Chairman, Scoutmaster, Sunday School Teacher, High Priest Group Leader, and Public Affairs Specialist. Late in life, Harold was called on a Church Welfare Mission and established a tutoring program at the Deseret Industries in Provo, Utah.
He is survived by nine children and their families: Eric of Sammamish, WA; Mark of Boise, ID; Craig of Sandy, UT; Lisa of Las Vegas, NV; Todd of Provo, UT; Dane of Orem, UT; Scott of Alpine, UT; Kara of Orem, UT; Gina of Springville, UT; Harold was also blessed with 33 grandchildren and 35 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, September 9, at 2:00 p.m. at the Sharon Park 5th Ward Chapel, 150 East 600 North, Orem, UT. Prior to the service a viewing will be held from 1-1:45 p.m. in the Relief Society room. Interment will be at the Orem City Cemetery where Harold will be laid to rest beside his eternal companion. Condolences may be sent at www.bergmortuary.com.
Charlene (Charly) Gunter was born in Bakersfield, Ca on April 5, 1943. She passed away at home of natural causes on Saturday, August 24th, 2013. She was preceded in death by her son, Douglas Wileman, her father, Charles Cotton, mother, Edna Cotton and sister, Deanna Cotton. Charlene is survived by her husband, Scott Gunter, son and his wife, Mike and Teri Wileman, stepson, Derek Gunter and his two children, her grandchildren, Taylor Gunter and Gavin Gunter. She is also survived by her two brothers and their wives, Larry and Gwen Cotton from Elizabeth, Co., Dewey and Kay Cotton of Tehachapi, Ca., numerous nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. Charlene also leaves behind cherished friends and loved ones from all walks of her life.
Charlene attended grammar schools in Fillmore and completed three years at Fillmore High. She went back later and earned her GED diploma. She was a stay at home mom to her two boys until they were in school. At that time she held a position as an Escrow officer at Glendale Federal Savings and loan bank. She moved back to Fillmore in the 70's and started working for her mom at Cotton's Cafe. After that she started a catering business which included preparing food and feeding the fire crew working on the Sespe fire. She was also involved in helping and feeding the 1994 Northridge earthquake victims. She spent three years as a dispatcher with the Ventura County Sheriffs department. She also did some bookkeeping from her home for several businesses in Ventura County.
Charlene loved people and was always willing to help with any project or fundraiser in Fillmore and Santa Paula. She was mostly known around Fillmore and Santa Paula as "Charly". She and Scott were members of the Moose Lodge and were especially active in the Santa Paula Lodge. They made many life long friends through the Lodge and various other organizations. She loved getting together with family and friends for Bar-B-Ques, especially during football seasons. The last few years Charlene had health problems that limited her ability to get out and about to do the things that she loved, such as, trips to Home Depot to buy flowers or gardening supplies. She also loved animals and for that reason Scott has requested that in Lieu of flowers that donations be made to SPARC, Santa Paula Animal Rescue Center. Checks can be mailed directly to them at 705 East Santa Barbara St., Santa Paula, Ca., 93060. Also, there is a website where you can make credit card or pay pal donations.
Join us in saying to her, "May you rest in peace".
Lois Emma Hannah King, of Fillmore, passed away Saturday, August 24.
She was born to Roy and Sarah Emma Hannah in Oneida, Idaho on April 26, 1919. Lois was the third of four daughters. The family moved to California when she was a toddler. The girls were raised in Culver City, California. Lois met Charles King while in High School. She graduated from Venice High School in 1937, and they married soon after. They had a two year hiatus during World War 2 while Charles served in the Army, travelling to Arkansas. Lois and Charles settled in the San Fernando Valley, where Lois earned her Bachelor Degree at Cal State Northridge in 1959.
Charles and Lois raised three children: Carolyn King McAdam, Charles Burton King Jr., and Robert King. The family enjoyed all types of activities including camping, swimming, Church, music lessons, and travelling.
Lois loved teaching. She taught primary grades for 10-years before retiring. Lois was a faithful Sunday school teacher for decades. After retiring, Lois and Charles moved to Fillmore, where they started the “Joy” Clubs for children in Fillmore and Piru. They were involved in Church, Sunday school, Mission trips, convalescent home, and prison ministries. Lois was a wonderful piano player and loved to play the organ and piano at Church. She also did substitute teaching for Ventura and Fillmore School Districts.
Lois and Charles built their dream house on Foothill Drive where they enjoyed the views of the Santa Clara Valley. Lois had 20 years of wonderful memories at the home. She loved gardening, having parties, sewing and quilting. Lois and Charles travelled, around the United States, Mexico, Canada and their dream trip around the world. She spent time with their grandchildren, camped, and fished.
After Charles passed away in 1992, Lois moved to El Dorado Estates. She loved the social actMties, gardening and swimming at the mobile home park. Because of her outgoing, fun-loving personality, Lois had many friends. More recently, she resided at Orange Blossom Senior Apartments, then Fillmore Convalescent Center. Lois will be greatly missed by her many friends, her three children and their spouses, her eight grandchildren and their spouses, twelve great grandchildren and one great great grandchild.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 31 at 11:00am at Skillin-Carroll Mortuary, 600 Central
Aye, Fillmore CA 93015 (805) 524-0744. A reception will be held afterward at Fillmore Senior Center,
535 Santa Clara Aye, Fillmore CA 93015.
June 8, 1932-August 12, 2013
Millie will be remembered as a loving, caring, outgoing, sassy woman who loved the Lord, her husband, family and friends dearly. She was known for her generous spirit.
Millie loved the outdoors, fishing, camping, horses/animals and socializing which carried over in her in her job with the National Park Service. Earlier in her life Millie had worked over 20 years in performing all aspects of electronic and electromechanical assembly. Millie took pride in her Native American culture and her love of learning. Her latest challenge was with her “Knit-Wit” friends where she learned to knit.
Millie is survived by her devoted husband Salem Pierce of 39 years, daughter Linda Gothard, son Ricky Gothard and daughter-in-law Cindy. She had 8 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.
The family would like to thank her church, friends and devoted Medical staff at St. John’s Pleasant Valley Hosp. in Camarillo for all their continued support.
A service was held on August 18, 2013 at Bardsdale United Methodist Church.
Michael Wayne Henderson, 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, 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.
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, 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 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 – 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, 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.
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.
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, 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 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