Joyce Lee Zavala( Stoner), born on November 16, 1937 in Tuckerman, AR, went to meet her Lord on Thursday July 19, 2012 in Plano, TX at the age of 74, after a lengthy battle with several illnesses. Mom was a resident of Frisco, TX for the past six years and was a longtime resident of Fillmore, CA. She graduated from Fillmore High School in 1956. She worked for Sunkist in the Fillmore-Piru Citrus Association beginning in 1969 and retired in 2000 after 31 years. Mom loved spending time with her children and grandchildren when they came to visit.
She will be remembered for her dry sense of humor, quick wit, undying compassion and her willingness to help wherever and whenever she could.
Our lives have changed forever. Learning to live without your physical presence is a daily challenge. We love you and miss you more than words could express.
She will be deeply missed by all her family. She was preceded in death by her mother (Alma Jackson) father (Lewis), sister (Mary Vest) and granddaughter (Amber Zavala). She is survived by her brother, Lewis Jackson Jr, children Richard, Regina, Joe, Michael (Ronnell) and Patrick (Angelica). Also, by her grandchildren Suzanne, Jenna, Kristopher, Cameron, Devyn, Joseph, Julia, Jennifer, Shane, December, Destyni, Brandon, Nathan, Anthony, Dezeray, Jazmine, Matthew, Ethan and Isabella Zavala. And, two great-grandchildren Kaitlyn and Richard.
A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date, per family request.
Reva âIreneâ Horn
May 28, 1921 â July 20, 2012
Irene was the second child of Frank and Fern Parks of Success, Arkansas.
Wearing a blue dress, she married Cyrus Horn in 1936 and moved to Fillmore, California in 1946.
She worked for several local businesses and retired from the Fillmore School District as a cafeteria manager for San Cayetano Elementary School.
Irene was an active member of the Fillmore Church of Christ since 1946, helping with Vacation Bible School, opening her home and cooking for potlucks. Her dishes were always made with love: especially her famous Missouri cookies.
âReneâ loved the colors red and yellow; she enjoyed crocheting, visiting with friends, walking, telling stories, feeding guests and serving others in any way she could.
She was preceded in death by parents Frank and Fern Parks, husband Cyrus Horn, brothers George and Rufus (Buck) Parks, sister Helena (Sis) Brazell and son Jim Horn.
Irene is survived by her sister Violet (Red) Shephard, son Frank Horn (wife Debbie), daughter Betty Brown (husband Roger), six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, many nephews and nieces, and a large circle of friends.
âThe best is not too good for me or mine.â âIrene Horn
Viewing is scheduled for Thursday, July 26 3:30-8:30pm at Skillin-Carroll Mortuary in Fillmore.
Graveside service will be held on Friday, July 27 2:00pm at Bardsdale Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to Santa Clara Valley Hospice P.O. Box 365 Santa Paula, CA 93061.
Evelyn Cozier Grove passed away on Thursday, July 5, 2012.
Evelyn was born in Omaha, Nebraska on November 6, 1920 to parents, Ethel and Harold Cozier. She attended Fillmore Elementary School with two sisters, Doris and Eileen. Evelyn graduated from Fillmore High School in 1938, Santa Barbara State College in 1942, and graduate work at the University of Washington in Seattle.
She married Hollis Grove on October 25, 1946, and lived in Kimberly, Idaho from 1946 to 1950, moved to Seattle, Washington from 1951 to 1956 where she taught first and second grade. Evelyn moved to Mesa, Arizona in 1957, then to Long Beach, California where she again taught first and second grade. She moved with Husband, Hollis to Las Vegas, Nevada and taught first and second grade from 1959 to 1960.
Evelyn arrived in Ventura in 1960 and taught first and second grade at El Camino, Will Rogers and Junipero Sierra schools until retirement in 1977.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Hollis Grove, her Sister Eileen and good friend Glen Marcus. Evelyn is survived by Sister Doris Kennedy and many nieces and nephews.
Evelyn dearly loved cats, gardening, and telling jokes. She attended weekly business discussions at the Senior Center, bingo at McDonalds, enjoyed walking in the mall, San Buenaventura Womenâs Club, and College Methodist Church.
Upon her request, no services will be held.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Ted Mayr Funeral Home and Crematory, 3150 Loma Vista Rd., Ventura. Condolences may be left at TedMayrFuneralHome.com.
On July 6, 2012, just 49 days short of his 102 birthday, Joe Bart Nunez was finally able to rest. He was born on August 24, 1910, in El Monte, CA, the eldest son and only remaining of 10 children born to Ramon & Ysabel Martinez Nunez. Passing before him were his siblings Pauline Ruiz, Lillian Aguirre, Jess, Sylvester, Ralph, Eleanor Dominguez, Carmen, Ramona and Carmen. In 1993, he was preceded in death by Nettie, his beloved wife of 56 years.
He was a man of faith, a member of the St. Francis of Assisi parish in Fillmore. He belonged to the Holy Name Society, was an usher and volunteered for various activities, and later attended services at the San Salvador Mission in Piru.
Joe saw & experienced many changes in the century of his life. He was known for his extraordinary recollections of all things. He told many stories, like being sent out as a teenager to look for victims of the San Francisquito Dam tragedy, and of growing up during the boom-town days of Piru.
Joe worked for over 50 years as the only employee of Goodenough Ranch. He was the embodiment of the term "hard-working", spending his entire week working on the job and then tending to his yard during his time off. Upon his retirement, he and Nettie moved to their home in Piru, where he had l6 fruit trees, including a sweet lime tree that had been grafted to an orange tree by his father, which produced both types of fruit.
He was truly an outdoors-man, be it hunting or camping and fishing with his family in the eastern Sierras as a younger man, or simply tending his extensive array of fruit trees in his yard. He took particular joy in harvesting macadamia nuts from his tree. He always enjoyed giving away whatever his trees happened to be producing. One of his greatest joys was curing olives from his trees & giving jars away to anyone lucky enough to be around before they ran out. He loved his flowers, caring for his rose bushes, poinsettias, and geraniums. He especially loved all his dogs, always having one for a pet and growing so close to them that their loss was always hard. He leaves behind his beloved companion Harley.
Joe was an athlete, playing baseball in his youth for the team from Piru. He remembered playing teams from Carpinteria as well as others from the county. He played second base. He followed all sports, but it was no surprise that he was an avid baseball fan, rooting for the Angels, a particular source of contention when it came to the Dodger fans in the family.
Although he had to quit school to help support his family, and probably because of that, he valued education. It was with his help that his grandchildren were both able to graduate from college.
The family would like to thank all the staff from the Fillmore Convalescent Center and Assisted Home Hospice, who provided excellent care for Joe during his last 3 years.
Joe is survived by his only child, daughter Joanne and her husband Wayne Fore, and much-loved grandchildren Brianna Fore and Chad Fore. He also leaves his friend and brother-in-law Eddie Villa, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Services will be held Thursday July 12, 2012 from 5-8pm with a rosary recited at 7:00pm, at San Salvador Mission in Piru. Funeral mass will be held Friday, July 13, 2012 at 9:00am, Also at San Salvador Mission. Arrangements are under the direction of Skillin-Carroll Mortuary Fillmore. Condolence messages may be left at Skillincarrollfil.com
Pedro Diaz was born on March 2, 1923 in Tangancicuaro, Michoacan, Mexico to Luis and Guadalupe Diaz. In the early morning hours of June 30th, Pedro passed away peacefully, surrounded by his wife of 62 years, his 7 children, and loving grandchildren.
Pedro was born and raised in Tangancicuaro, Michoacan, and at the age of 26 he married Ana Rodriguez on July 27, 1949. In the years that followed they began expanding their family with the births of their 7 children: Luz, Luis, Ramiro, Ramon, Rafael, Ana, and Pedro. They wouldâve had 7 sons, sadly, two of them passed away to childhood illnesses. Despite his difficult childhood Pedro was a responsible and loving father, who taught his children the value of love, respect, and strength. All of which was necessary when Pedro began going to the United States in the 1950âs as part of the Bracero Program. The program required him to spend a good deal of time away from his family but as a devoted husband and father he always mailed them his earnings from his work. In 1969 he obtained legal residency for himself, his wife and his children; and brought them to the United States. It was always said, that it was important for them to come together and all at once.
Once his family was settled into Fillmore he began working in neighboring cities, in the fields of a chicken farm and in a factory that produced airplane windows. Even after he retired at the age of 65 he continued to work part-time taking care of a small ranch in Moorpark. He always kept himself busy working on one project or another and could often be seen riding his bike to the store to buy groceries for him and his wife. One of his sister-in-laws said it best, Pedro was like an ant, always moving, always working, and very persistent. When he wasnât working he enjoyed being at home either watching or listening to a Los Angeles Dodger game.
Pedro will now be a guardian angel to his wife, Ana, his children, Luz and Javier Alcaraz, Luis and Jenny Diaz, Ramiro and Trini Diaz, Ramon and Eva Diaz, Rafael and Lupe Diaz, Ana and Agustin Campos, and Pedro Diaz, 16 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.
Our family would like to acknowledge and thank the Fillmore Convalescent Home and Assisted Home Hospice staff who took such great care of our father in his last days. Thank you for your kindness and patience and for allowing our family to be with our father at all hours. We will be forever grateful for your help and hospitality.
Viewing will be held on Friday, July 6th at Skillin Carrol Mortuary in Fillmore, Ca. from 3-6pm, followed by the Rosary at 7pm. Mass is Saturday, July 7th at 8:45am at Saint Francis Church, burial to follow immediately at Bardsdale Cemetery.
Bobby joined the Lord, his parents, other members of his family and friends on June 20, 2012. He was at Ventura County Medical Center where he passed away peacefully in his sleep after a brief battle with Cancer.
Bobby was born in Santa Paula, California on November 22, 1963. He is survived by his wife Kathy of 21 years, his amazing daughters Kristy and Candace, sister Jo Ellen Tubbs-Smelcer and brother Paul Tubbs (wife Sharon). He is also survived by several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
Grave side services will be held at on Noon, Saturday, July 7, 2012, at the Santa Paula Cemetery. Family and friends are welcome at the services and reception immediately following.
The family would like to stay a special thanks to Dr. Michael Tushla, Santa Paula Hospital and VCMC for the excellent/caring care they provided to Bobby. We would also like to thank his employer Thompco for being there for Bobby and our family as well as a big hug to all our friends and family for their support during this time of sorrow.
Freda M. Hoy died peacefully in her sleep with her family at her side on Sunday, July 1st 2012. She was born on February 21st, 1923 in San Francisco, California. She was a devout Episcopalian and loved her family. She was very active in her faith and was the first woman appointed to the Vestry in the Southern California Diocese Region. She lived in the San Francisco area, Van Nuys and moved to Fillmore, Ca; 20 years ago. She was very active in her community and Trinity Episcopal Church. She was in charge of their Thrift Store for over 10 years, helping many locally and benefiting the community greatly.
Freda had a passion for flowers, sewing, cooking, bird watching and her family. She was always willing to help others and volunteer to bake for an event. Fredaâs favorite flowers were red tulips and yellow daffodils. She passed on to be with her husband, but cherished memories will live on in the hearts of her family.
Two special family favorite memories are: her famous Christmas Persimmon Pudding with Hard Sauce and Lemon Sauce for dessert for every Christmas Dinner for the last 32 years. It wouldnât be the Christmas season without Freda making her special dessert for her family to enjoy. Another treasured memory is her also famous Chocolate Cake that she would make every 4th of July, this was the special cake that won her husbandâs heart the first time they met over a dinner for the Merchant Marines her mother had planned. The chocolate cake won her husband and we would enjoy it every year with her re-telling the story.
She is preceded in death by her husband of 49 years, Robert J. Hoy Jr.
Freda is survived by her 5 children: son Christopher Hoy (wife Yuwadee), daughter Sue OâFlynn (husband Maurice), daughter Nancy Zeise (husband Peter), son Patric Hoy and daughter Annette Ross; 4 granddaughters: Nancy OâFlynn, Carmel Larson (husband Brian), Brandy Lopez (husband Edy) and Anya Zeise; 3 great-grandchildren: Eddy Lopez, Claire & Claudia Larson.
Her family would like to thank all the doctors, nurses and staff that attended to her in her final days. She received excellent compassionate care at Fillmore Urgent Care and Santa Paula Hospital.
Freda always had a kind word to anyone that came to her, she was a sweet generous lady in all aspects of her life. She will be sorely missed here on Earth by her family, but her passing is eased knowing that she will be reunited with her husband again and be in Godâs presence.
There will be a funeral service on Sunday, July 8th, 2012 at 1pm at Trinity Episcopal Church, 600 Saratoga St, Fillmore, Ca 93015.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Trinity Episcopal Church in Fillmore, Ca in Fredaâs memory.
With great sadness the family of Chuck (Hoover) Randall announce his passing on June 25, 2012 after a brief illness.
Chuck enjoyed a long career in marketing in the asphalt pavement industry. He represented the Newhall Refinery from 1965 to 1989, then Fletcher Oil from 1989 to 1992 and finished his career with San Joaquin Refinery from 1992 until retirement in December, 2011.
He was born in Danville, Arkansas on March 2, 1934. His family moved to California in the early 1940âs. Chuck served his country for 11 years in the US Air Force. He married Nadine Gunn in 1955 and they were married 29 years until her passing.
Chuck is survived by his wife of 27 years Edith, sons Ron (Susie) Randall and Bill Randall. Step sons Eric (April) Hutchins, Neal (Heather) Hutchins and step daughter Janet (Rod) Schrock. Brother David Randall, 11 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents Carl and Lorene Randall, brothers Bob, Carl, Billy Randall and sister Louise Gunn.
He was a member of the Asphalt Paving Association of California and the Piru Petroleum Club. Chuck loved golf and he was a member of the Mt. View Golf Club. He was proud to have made three holes in one, the last one at Mt. View just a few months before his passing.
A graveside service will be held on Friday, July 6 at 11 a.m. at Bardsdale Cemetary, 1698 S. Sespe St., Fillmore. In lieu of flowers a memorial donation may be made to a charity of your choice.
Arrangements entrusted to the care of Skillin-Carroll Mortuary, 600 Cental Ave., Fillmore, CA 93015 805-524-0744.
Alfonso Anguiano Arroyo was born August 2, 1928 and went to be with our Lord on June 24, 2012. His devoted wife and his loving family surrounded him.
Alfonso was born in Tendeparacua, Michoacan in Mexico to Julia Anguiano and Jose Arroyo. He came to the United States in 1947, and met and married the love of his life, Carmen Reyes (Arroyo). They had 60 wonderful years of marriage. Not to say it was perfect, but it was filled with love, forgiveness and much laughter. Together they raised 12 children, Jenny Romo, Mary Flores, Daniel Esquivel, Carmen Ortiz, Joe Arroyo, Ana Pari, Armando Arroyo, Arthur Arroyo, Annette Fox, Albert Arroyo, Alisia Arroyo, and Amie Bradford. They also enjoyed 25 grandchildren and 18 grandchildren.
Alfonso was a very hard working man, who always took pride in providing for his family. Together with his wife, he bought his very own home in 1963. He loved being in his yard, gardening, planting fruit trees, and caring for his famous roses. Everyone that knew him knew that his fruit from his yard was delicious! He had oranges, lemons, grapefruit, strawberries, tomatoes, grapes, and pomegranates to name a few.
He loved sports and always made time to be there for his children and grandchildrenâs sporting events. He loved attending the Fillmore Flashes football games, Little League games, and Fillmore Raider games. His favorite sports teams were the Los Angeles Dodgers, The Los Angeles Lakers, and The Los Angeles (now St. Louis) Rams. He was a long time member of the Knights of Columbus and was a volunteer for the Meals on Wheels program.
Alfonsoâs life was filled with much laughter and love. When we remember him we will always remember how as much as he tried to show that macho side of him, he was a very loving man to all of us. We all hold our own special memories of him in our hearts. We are at peace knowing that he is now with our Heavenly Father and is no longer in pain. He is free to walk, and garden up in heaven now.
Our family would like to send a huge THANK YOU to Vista Cove and their hospice staff who cared for our father in his last days. They were a tremendous amount of comfort to both our father and our family. They went above and beyond to make us all happy and comfortable during a difficult time. We will forever be grateful.
Isaiah 41:10- Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous handâŠ
Viewing is Thursday June 28th at Skillin Carrol Mortuary in Fillmore, Ca from 3-8pm. Rosary will be recited at 6pm. Mass is Friday, June 29th at 10am at St Francis of Assisi Church in Fillmore. Ca. The burial will immediately follow, but it is requested that it be immediate family members only.
Henry James "Hank" Data passed away peacefully at Home to be with his Heavenly Father, Friday June 8, 2012 at age 95. He was born to Joseph and Catterina Data December 8, 1916 in Krebs Oklahoma where he was raised until coming to Los Angeles, year 1937. He was employed at E. A. Hoffman Candy Co. where he met his Wife Floreine J. (Anderson)
They were married Year 1940 and have celebrated 72 wonderful years. Henry was a WWII Veteran and served in the U.S. Navy as Boatswain's Mate Aviation-2nd Class. After leaving the Navy, year 1945. He attended GENERAL MOTORS INSTITUTE, Flint Michigan where he received his training as a Parts and Service Manager. He was employed at JONES BROS. PONTIAC, Fillmore until 1961 and then WM. L MORRIS, Chevrolet - Oldsmobile as Parts Manager until retirement 1986.
Henry was preceded in death by his entire Family. He is survived by his wife Floreine, Son James A. Sr., Ojai, Ca. Grandsons, James Jr. great Grandsons Dillon and Dalton, Fillmore, Ca. Joshua, wife Lorie and great-grand-daughter Sophia, Oak View, Ca. Nieces Dottie Stone, Mc Alester, Ok. Alice King (Jim) Blue Rapids, Ks. Great Niece Kara Friedman (Brian) Great-great Nephew Nathan and Great-great Niece Maya. Great Niece Jeanie Dancer (Kelly), Bixby, Ok. Niece Pat Paris (Phil) San Antonio, Tx, Nephew Walter D. Wallace, Hawaii, Kathy Logerberg, Great-nephew Justin, Encinitas, Ca. Great Niece Jessica Norris (Greg) Great-great Niece Sofia, Carlsbad, Ca. Nephew Robert Plumbley Jr. and Wife Pamela, Coronado, Ca. Great Niece Patty Green (Ron) Great-great Niece Sienna, Prescott, Az. Great-Niece Deborah "Debbie" Plumbley, La Mesa and Great-great Niece Alanna Saenz. Great-Nephew Rob Plumbley (Sarah) and Great-great Nephew Jake, Gilbert, Az.
Henry was an avid Golfer. Fifty years ago when Elkins Ranch Golf Club was formed, he was a fixture there. He served as a member of Directors many times. Year 1984. GOLF DIGEST ALMANIC listed his "ELKINS RANCH COURSE - Holes in One" of Four Years- 1976, 1984, 1994 and 1998. He reported two more there, all at Hole #16, shot from a different terrain. His retirement in 1986 allowed more Golf. His Senior PGA Marshalling for 27 Years was his pride.
The Family extends Special Thanks to Sister-in law, Juliette II C. Aprato and her beloved departed husband, David E. Aprato; Nephew and Niece Robert and Pamela Plumbley. Friends, Richard and Marie Foster; Doctors and Staff: Richard J. Tushla, M.D. and Thomas Q. Kong Jr. M.D. for the many years of service and for always being there for us.
Honoring Henry's request, there will be no Service, a Family Bedside Goodbye occurred and Cremation has taken place.
Donations in Henry's Memory may be made to Charity of choice - or Assisted Home Hospice 4450 Westinghouse St. Suite 103, Ventura, Ca. 93003
It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Jean R. Jeffery, who passed away peacefully after a brief illness Thursday, May 31, 2012. Jean was born on January 9, 1923 at home near Selden, Kansas. She grew up on the family farm until 1935, when the family moved Laton, California. Jean met the love of her life, Raymond A. Jeffery, at Laton High School. They were married in 1942, shortly before Ray left for the Pacific Campaign with the United States Army.
In 1951, Jean and the family moved to Ventura, California. She worked as a bookkeeper for Spitler Accounting in Ventura, and then Cowell and Barrow CPAs in Fillmore, California until her retirement.
Jeanâs loves were her family, her many friends, her cat âPretty Babyâ, and of course , Channel Islands Chapter #78, Order of the Eastern Star in Ventura, joining in 1971. During her 41 years, she became Worthy Matron in 1979 and again in 2005.
Jean is survived by her two sons, Jerry L. Jeffery of Ventura, California, daughter-in-law Barbara Jeffery, grandson Eric Jeffery, granddaughter Kathy Bilodeau and her husband Jim Bilodeau, great-granddaughter Mandi Bilodeau, great-grandson Matthew Bilodeau, great-granddaughter Madison Olachea and her husband Josh Olachea and great great- grandson Landen Olachea; as well as son, James A. Jeffery of Ojai, California, daughter-in-law Marcie L.R. Jeffery, granddaughters Stephanie âSteviâ Jeffery, Kym Jeffery, Tara Jeffery and her husband Rick Bisaccia, grandson Ty Jeffery and his wife Michelle Evdokimov, great-grandson Kiran Bisaccia and great-granddaughter Simone Jeffery. She will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved her.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff and volunteers of Community Memorial Hospital and the outstanding CMH Palliative Team.
Services will be held on Saturday, June 16, 2012, 11:00 A.M. at the Masonic Lodge , 482 E. Santa Clara Street, Ventura. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Channel Islands Chapter #78 OES, 482 E. Santa Clara Street, Ventura, California, 93001.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Ted Mayr Funeral Home and Crematory, 3150 Loma Vista Rd., Ventura. Condolences may be left at TedMayrFuneralHome.com
Robert Frederic (âBobâ) Huestis died in Sabetha, Kansas, on Sunday, June 3, 2012, three weeks shy of his 90th birthday, having enjoyed a long and wonderful life.
Bob was born on June 27, 1922, in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Howard Huestis and the former Eleanor H. Schilling. He moved to Fillmore with his parents and older brother Howard B. Huestis as a youngster when his father was transferred to the Fillmore Post Office. He graduated with the Fillmore High Class of 1941.
Coach Harry Bigger described Bob in his 1991 Memories as âa big, strong, likeable kid, and in my estimation the best all-around athlete Fillmore HS ever has had.â He was all-league tackle in football as a sophomore, junior, and senior; two years all-league in basketball; and the leagueâs most valuable player in baseball. He was chosen as team captain in every sport.
Baseball was Bobâs favorite, and his reputation as a pitcher was well known. âIt took courage to stay in the batterâs box against Bobby,â recalled Coach Bigger. âMany batters âbailed outâ on called strikes.â Bob umpired for the Fillmore Little League for many years and was a long-time Dodgers fan.
Bob was inducted into the Fillmore High School Sports Hall of Fame in 2010, an honor that he treasured.
After playing college baseball briefly in Oklahoma, Bob answered the call of duty. He joined the Marine Corps in November 1942 and served in the Pacific during WWII. He took shrapnel on Saipan, received the Purple Heart, and returned to Fillmore in November 1945.
Mindful of the casualties of war, Bob had searched for assurance that he would have a place in heaven if he didnât survive. It was not until he was back home, out of harmâs way, that he sensed God speaking to him, inaudibly calling, âI want you to be My son.â Bob responded to that call and received Godâs gift of love and assurance of eternal destiny.
Bob married Virginia June LeBard of Fillmore on October 11, 1951. They enjoyed 60 happy years together and raised three children.
Bob spent most of his working years with the Fillmore Post Office in the days when mail carriers walked routes, carrying a mail bag on the shoulder or pushing a cart. Having covered the two largest routes in town, at one time he knew most of the people who lived at each address. He often stopped to greet residents as he delivered the mail and was a friend to many.
During years when the high school was without a swimming pool, Bob opened his own pool to neighborhood youth after work and served as life guard. His home was the location of many a dinner, party, Bible study, and get-together.
He was a long-time member of the First Presbyterian Church, where he served for many years as Sunday School superintendent, as a church elder, and in other capacities.
Answering another call, Bob retired early from the Post Office in 1970 and together with Virginia joined New Tribes Mission of Sanford, Florida, which specializes in evangelizing unreached people groups. After preparatory trainÂŹing in Pennsylvania and Missouri, they spent five years in Papua New Guinea where Bob was in charge of purchasing and shipping for mission personnel located in remote areas of the country. He and Virginia also operated a guest house for mission personnel in the coastal town of Wewak.
Upon returning to Fillmore for furlough in 1978, Bob was diagnosed with a chronic form of leukemia and suffered a back injury, resulting in retirement from the mission. He then served as a part-time pastor, visiting the sick and elderly. He also drove a bus part time between Fillmore and Ventura for the Fillmore transit system.
Affectionately nicknamed Poppy by his grandchildren, Bob constantly spent countÂŹless hours loving and caring for them. He got to know each one as he played imaginaÂŹtively with them as youngsters and followed their special interests as they grew older. It was in this way that he passed on his most important values as an ongoing legacy. Each one of his grandchildren carries a piece of his heart and character.
Bob and Virginia moved to Ventura in the late 1980s and from there to Fairview, Kansas, in 2007 to live near their son Sam and his wife Linda, who had just established a home there. Although Bobâs leukemia never progressed, within a year of the move his general health declined, and he became a resident of the Apostolic Christian Home in nearby Sabetha. He enjoyed many visits from family who came often from around the country.
Bob spent his entire adult life serving others and will be remembered as one of the kindest and gentlest men one could ever meet.
He is survived by his wife Virginia; children Sam Huestis of Ventura and Fairview, Alice Mikos of Oak Harbor, Washington, and Margaret LaRue of Ventura; grandÂŹchildren Nathan Huestis, Ryan Huestis, Kimberlee Mikos, Matthew Mikos, Christina Mikos, Aimee LaRue Sywulka, Rachel LaRue Culver, and Bobby LaRue; and great grandson Kysen Mikos.
Interment will be on June 8 at the Leavenworth National Cemetery. The family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made in Bobâs memory to the Apostolic Christian Home, the Sabetha Legion baseball team, or other charities.
Juana Andrade Ortega age 86, resident of Fillmore passed away on May 21, 2012. She was born on June 25, 1925 in Aguascalientes, Mexico. She had been a resident of Ventura County for 56 years. She was a wonderful housewife and loveable mother and grandmother. She worked from 1957 to 1961 for the Hardisonâs and from 1961 to 1971 for Samuel Edwards. She worked harvesting lemons and oranges. She was a very hard and dedicated worker. In 1971 was when became a housewife and took care of her grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Antonio Ortega, and Brother Angel Ortega. She was survived by her Brother Jose Andrade, Daughters Connie BriseĆo and Ana Berta Enriquez son and Daughter in law Mario and Florencia Ortega, Son and Daughter in law Juan and Evelia Ortega as well as for 14 Grandchildren and 20 Great Grandchildren.
Constance âConnieâ Ruth Mumme, 87, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 26, 2012 while surrounded by family and friends at the Tobacco Root Mountains Care Center.
She is survived by her husband, Kenneth; four children: Daniel, Robert, Christopher, and Holley; twelve grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.
Born December 12, 1924 to Lloyd and Marion Holley of Fillmore, Calif., Connie was the second of three children. She spent much of her youth on the orchard ranch owned by her father, and graduated from Fillmore High School with honors in 1942.
After attending Occidental College in 1943-44, Connie transferred to the University of California-Berkeley. There she studied education for three years, using her talents to substitute teach in the Fillmore School District. She would go on to earn the position of head librarian within the district. Among Connieâs many talents, she was a remarkably skilled seamstress, piano player, singer, writer, and caretaker.
On March 30, 1946, Connie was married to Kenneth Mumme upon his return from WWII. Four years later, after the birth of her second son, she temporarily took on the role of primary parent as Kenneth returned to duty in the Korean War.
In 1971, Connie and Kenneth moved from Fillmore to Sheridan with children Chris and Holley. An active member of the community for 41 years, Connie left a lasting mark in Sheridan working alongside her husband as co-owner of the Madison Market and Sheridan Bakery. She was a pillar of strength in the Sheridan Methodist Church and a friend to many within the community. Her final years were spent being loved and cared for by her devoted husband and the health care staff at the Tobacco Root Mountains Care Center.
She will be remembered for her wit and for a spirit that lives on in her more than twenty direct descendants. Even in the throes of Alzheimerâs, which stole much of her memory, her wonderful sense of humor prevailed. After 66 years of marriage, Connie set an incredible standard in loving her family, and for that she will be missed dearly by so many.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, May 31, at 11 a.m. from the Bethel Methodist Church at Sheridan with Rev. Ben Nardi officiating. Interment will follow in the Sheridan Cemetery.
May 11, 1958-May 9, 2012
Kerry Weber Balden, 53, died May 9, 2012 in his home in Seabrook, TX. Mr. Balden was born in Santa Paula, CA to James and Patricia Wilson Balden. He was a graduate of Filmore High School, class of 1976. He and his siblings spent many happy weekend and summer visits at their grandparentsâ beach house in Mussel Shoals, CA.
As a young adult, Kerry worked in the maritime industry. Eventually he moved to Hawaii and worked as chief engineer for a firm in the Honolulu Harbor. While in Hawaii he met his wife Maureen Smith Balden. After marrying in Hawaii, the couple relocated and has lived in Seabrook, TX since 1992.
Kerry was an active member and volunteer at the Bay Area Club in League City and the Wheel House in Deer Park. He owned and operated Balden Construction during his Texas years.
Kerry was preceded in death by his mother and grandparents. He is survived by his wife Maureen, and two sons, Kerry James, 19, and Shea Evans, 16; his father James Evans Balden and stepmother Elaine Balden of Altadena, CA; his siblings Patrick, Laura Balden Clauson, Michael, Justine Blanton, Alana Balden and Skyla Balden; his numerous sisters and brothers-in-law, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and too many friends to name.
In lieu of flowers, the family has established the Kerry Weber Balden Memorial âFix-Itâ Fund to benefit ongoing building maintenance and lawn care at the Bay Area Club, as these were Kerryâs weekly service project and his great passion. Donations to this fund may be sent directly by check to the Bay Area Club, 2111 Webster St. League City, TX 77573, specifying Kerryâs name in the memo. Alternatively, donations may be made to the Wheelhouse, also dear to Kerryâs heart, at www.thewheelhouseinc.com via PayPal, or mailed to 206 West Helgra St. Deer Park, TX 77536. Donations to either the BAC or the Wheelhouse are fully tax deductible.
Condolences may be sent to the Balden Family, PO Box 813, Seabrook, TX 77586.
Visitation will be held at Crowder Funeral Home at 111 E. Medical Center Blvd. Webster, TX 77598 from 5 â 7 PM Friday May 18th.
A funeral service will be held at Gateway Community Church at 760 Clear Lake City Blvd. Webster, TX at 5 PM Saturday May 19th. The 5 PM timing commemorates Kerryâs daily attendance with Friends of Bill at the Live @ 5 Group.
Immediately following the service there will be a potluck reception at Gateway. Please bring a covered dish and a story.
Alfredo Carrillo, age 31 of Fillmore, was born on December 1, 1980, to Salvador and Ninfa Carrillo in Van Nuys, California. He passed away on Thursday, April 26, 2012 at his home.
He graduated from Fillmore High School in 1998. In the last few years he worked for Boscovich Farms. His passion was making music with his friends and watching the food channel and sports. He was a genius with computers.
Alfredo, you will be greatly missed, there are no words to describe how your family and friends will miss you. You will be remembered for your tender heart. 2 Timothy 4:7 âI have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day and not only me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.â
Alfredo was preceded in death by his grandparents, Serovio and Inez Carrillo, and Jesus Lopez; aunt, Esperanza Lopez; and cousin, Martin Becerra.
Alfredo is survived by his father Salvador Carrillo; mother Ninfa Carrillo; sister, Claudia Ramirez and her husband Joseph Ramirez; niece, Mia Ramirez; nephew, Dominic Ramirez; grandmother, Altagracia Lopez; aunts and uncles, Eva Magana, Raquel Gonzalez, Isabel Campos, Leopoldo Lopez, Jesus Lopez, Florisa Lopez, Manuel Campos, Eva Gomez, cousins, Nora Ruiz, Nancy Magana, Manuel Magana, Yvette, Elba and Joshua Campos, Violeta, Esmeralda, Rudy and Angel Gonzales, Jazmin, Jessica and Jacob Ruiz, Reina, Amber and Sierra Magana, and Kalob Conzalez.
Prayer Service will be held at 6pm on Monday, April 30 at La Promesa de Jesus, 461 Central Avenue, Fillmore Ca.
Funeral Service will be held at 9am on Tuesday May 1, also at La Promesa de Jesus, officiated by Ernesto Rangel. Burial to follow at Bardsdale Cemetery in Fillmore.
Josephine Curiel was born May 1, 1956. She grew-up in Fillmore, California. She graduated from Fillmore High School in 1974. After obtaining her M.A. and teaching credential, she worked for thirty years in Riverside County as a special education teacher and advocate for special needs children.
On March 21, 2012, Josie died and is now with her mother Cora and brother Billie.
She will be deeply missed by her family; father Martiniano Curiel, sisters; Martha Curiel Jimenez, Monica Curiel, Hortensia Curiel, brothers; John Soto, Freddie Vassaur, and Frank Curiel and her many nieces and nephews.
Josie will also be missed by her friends, co-workers, and students. Her family was deeply touched by the showing of love and support from her friends. We sincerely thank them.
Josie's ashes will be dispersed at sea on June 17, 2012 at the Ventura Harbor.
Private family services paid tribute to the life of long-time county resident, Louis R. Gabrielsen, 98, who peacefully passed away April 4, 2012 at his beloved SaraLou Ranch between Fillmore and Santa Paula.
With him at his death were daughters Patricia Mann Alto and Terri Mann Schaeffer and her husband Douglas Schaeffer of Cincinnati, Ohio.
Known locally by nicknames Lou or Gabe, Mr. Gabrielsen was the only child of Norwegian immigrants, Louis Sebinius and Olava Ellingsen Gabrielsen.
When he was born, July 18, 1913, his parents were visiting friends in New Jersey and in order to earn funds to get his wife and son out of the hospital and return to their home in Philadelphia, Gabe's father went out fishing.
When he was 9, the Gabrielsen family made the cross-country train ride to San Diego, where his father worked on many projects as a machinist, including Lindbergh's The Spirit of St. Louis". Gabe could dearly remember clearly incidents from both World War I and the Spanish flu epidemic of 1918.
Mr. Gabrielsen was involved in various youth military groups and was in the ROTC at San Diego High School from which he was graduated in 1931. After a stint in business school, he had a variety of jobs including one working as an auditor on the Oakland-San Francisco Bay Bridge construction. Late in the 1930's he owned and operated a small hotel in San Diego, but that ended December 8, 1941 when he enlisted in the US Navy, where he served as a store master on various ships in the South Pacific until the end of the war. During his Navy service he won several fleet boxing championships.
In 1946 He came to Ventura County to look for work in the oilfields, but by 1947 he was working as a public accountant. He continued his practice until blindness forced him to close his practice in Fillmore in 1993.
On August 16, 1958 he married Sara Bjornson and they moved to the ranch Easter Weekend 1961. "Sally" worked as a school nurse and together had a fascinating life travelling and associating with their many local friends as well as new people they met on their trips.
Mr. Gabrielsen was a life-long hunter and fisherman who tracked after various fish and game in places as diverse as New Zealand, Chile and Norway. He was a Dodger fan from way before they moved to LA and looked forward to baseball season all year. He loved growing things, particularly roses and tomatoes, and his noted cooking skills were donated to a variety of organizations. One of his favorite activities was working with the Sheriffâs mounted rescue posse and was involved in rescues both up the Seeps and off the beaches.
An involved member of both the local community and of professional organizations, he belonged to Fillmore Rotary Club, the Fillmore Club and served on various charitable committees. He was active in California Accountants' Association, serving in state-wide offices. At one time he was on the state board of accountancy.
After joining the Masonic movement at age of 21, he was involved in various aspects of Masonry until his death. He was a member of Al Malikah Shrine and of the Scottish Rite. Honored with the Hirum Award for service above the call of duty, he also received the thirty third, or highest degree of Masonry. Two years ago the State Grand Master honored him with a 75-year pin.
As well as through Shriner's efforts for crippled and burned childrens' hospitals, his philanthropy extended to many groups as well as to private people, many times anonymously. The day one of his step-daughters first met him, she was with her mom at Ipswich's Fillmore Boater. As they waited a man came out of the back of the store and left. Jack lpswich turned and told Sally that man was Lou Gabrielsen and he had a standing order that when children were noted to be ill-shod, the schools were see they got shoes and Gabe paid for them.
Early in his life Louis Gabrielsen vowed that if he ever had anything he would share it with others.
Surviving him are his daughters and grandchildren Tricia Mason of Bountiful, Utah, Tracie Pierce, of Baltimore, Hayward Alto of Chisinau, Moldova, Garrett Alto of Ukiah. Bryan Schaeffer of Tallahassee, Florida, Kristian Alto of Ukiah, Heidi Clark of Dayton, Ohio, Kelly Bullock of Lehi, Utah, and Annmarie Clark of American Fork, Utah, as well as 16 great-grandchildren.
Stronger than any force, true love often overcomes all obstacles. This power always has a way of bringing people together, and it did just that on April 2nd, 2012 when Muriel L. Pennington, 91, passed away at Twin Cities Hospital in Templeton, CA. Muriel Hall and James Pennington were married December 8, 1938 in Booneville, AR. Soon after celebrating their 73rd wedding anniversary, James passed away peacefully in their home this past January. Having lost her other half, Muriel was close to follow her love James after celebrating her 91st birthday in March. There are no words to express the love and devotion of this amazing couple who are remembered fondly by all. Muriel, remembered mostly for her unwavering spirit, open kitchen, and warm heart is survived by children Jim and wife Pam Pennington, Grace and husband Jack Collins, and Cindy Brennan, as well as nine grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren. She also leaves behind her remarkable caregivers Grace J. and Pam F. Please join family and friends in celebrating the life of Muriel Pennington on Monday, April 9th, at the Skillin Carroll Mortuary in Santa Paula, CA. A viewing will begin at 12:00pm and service at 1:00pm. Graveside service at the Pierce Brothers' Santa Paula Cemetery will follow.
The Rev. Katherine Yates passed on to her new experience March 29, 2012 at 3:30 a.m. She was born in St. Louis, MO and had been a resident of Ventura County since 1960.
The youngest of four children, she is survived by siblings; Barbara Roberts of Lafayette, IN, and John Sutorius of Camarillo, CA. The mother of five children, she is survived by; Michelle Brown of Camarillo, CA, Stephen Boyd of Aztec, NM, Michael Boyd of Oxnard, CA, Sabrina McManigal of Ventura, CA, and grandchildren; Caresse Vetter, Staff Sergeant Crystal Newman, currently serving in Afghanistan, Nolan Brown, Hugh McManigal, Madison McManigal, and great grandchildren; Dylan Vetter, Cody Vetter and Lacey Vetter.
Rev. Yates answered the call to the ministry and became an ordained minister of Religious Science International in 1974. She founded the Oxnard Church of Religious Science in 1975 and served as pastor for 17 years. During this time she created a weekly Sunday morning radio program, was a frequent guest on various television programs. Her natural ability and easy style, combined with a well developed sense of humor made her a well received speaker at various civic functions, church seminars, workshops and the annual RSI Conference in Monterey, CA. For a period of ten years Rev. Yates worked with Dr. Fred Fenger conducting Prayer therapy Sessions. She also served as the pastor of the Fillmore Church of Religious Science for seven years before retirement.
Her first book, " The Warrior Within, The Emerging Self ", was published in 1995. She wrote numerous children's stories, articles and was working on a second book. Rev. Yates was an effective counselor and healer and her practical approach to teaching the " Science of Mind "
caused her students to bestow upon her the title " Teacher of Teachers ". Many of her students also followed her call to the ministry.
Her gentle loving nature and calming influence, as well as her natural integrity will continue to bless all who knew her. She was and is well loved and will be greatly missed.
She loved her children, gentle souls, smooth jazz, flowers, trees, laughter, travel, mystery novels, and ongoing research into ancient wisdom. Pervading everything was her love of God. " Go gently into the Light."
A memorial service will be held for her at The Ventura Church of Religious Science on Saturday April 14th at 10:00 a.m. at 101 S. Laurel St., Ventura, CA.