Josephine 'Alice' Luna (1942-2011)

Josephine 'Alice' Luna, 69 of Fillmore passed away on Friday, September 16, 2011. Alice was born on March 25,1942 in Santa Paula to John and Josephine Aguilar.
Alice was preceded in death by her husband, Luis M. Luna, Sr.; brothers, Raymundo H. Aguilar and John Raymond Aguilar.
Alice is survived by her children, Luis and Jackie Luna, Daniel Luna, Edward and Ana Luna, Josephine and Alfred Valles, Andrew and Yenira Luna; Grandchildren, Heaven, Johnny, Michael, Andrew Jr., Diego, Yvette, Julie and Alonzo; Brothers, Jim and Ruth Aguilar, Armando A. and Elaine Aguilar, Henry and Cecilia Aguilar; Sisters, Virginia and Hector Araiza, Amelia and Ralph Alcoser, Lupe and Ruben Carrillo and many loved nephews and nieces.
Alice was a loving and caring person to all that knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever in our hearts.
Funeral Services Honoring The Life of Josephine 'Alice' Luna will begin with visitation at 4pm followed with the recitation of the rosary at 5pm, Wednesday, September 21, 2011 at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 1048 Ventura Street, Fillmore. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30am, Thursday, September 22, 2011 also at St. Francis of Assisi with Father Barney Gatlin Officiating. Committal and Interment will follow at Pierce Bros. Santa Paula Cemetery.
For map and directions to ceremony locations and to sign the family's online guest book, share stories and post pictures please visit our website: www.mysantapaulafuneralhome.com and click on Alice's name located below "Recent Obituaries".
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Family Owned and Operated Robert Rey Garcia Jr. Funeral Svcs., Santa Paula, CA. 805.229.7054

Myrth Feldmann (1913–2011)

On August 26, 2011, at the rich and remarkable age of 97 years, Myrth Feldmann went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She was born in Atlantic, Iowa, on December 13, 1913, to Robert and Zeta Bell. The family, including her older brother Charles and younger brother Jack, lived in a small apartment above a feed store in Fletcher’s Chapel, a very small farming community. Myrth graduated from Lewis High School, in nearby Lewis, Iowa, and aspired to be a school teacher. She married Glenn Allen in 1934 in Atlantic, Iowa. They moved to Yakima, Washington, and lived for a time with her brother Charles. Their son Bob was born in 1938. In 1942, she and Glenn were divorced. Shortly after, she met Conrad “Connie” Ramirez at a USO function where Connie was singing. She married Connie in 1943. Their daughter Pamela was born in 1944. The family moved to California after WWII, where they settled at Roger Young Village, a housing project for returning soldiers, in Griffith Park, Los Angeles. Here they made many lifelong friends.
In 1953, they purchased their first home in Pacoima in the San Fernando Valley, where they lived in one of thousands of post-war tract houses, which Myrth made cozy and comfortable with love, good cooking, and lots of elbow grease. The door was always open to friends and relatives, especially after softball games, in which Connie pitched. Twenty years later, it was time to retire and move to Fillmore, California, to the El Dorado Mobile Home Park. Here, there was no more work, there were new friends, a new church, and everyone in the park wanted Myrth’s enchilada and cheesy bean recipes. She was tirelessly active at her beloved Bardsdale Methodist church. Connie sang in the choir and Myrth always took charge of the “project table,” raising money for the church selling articles gleaned from countless weekend yard sales. For many years, she delighted friends and relatives with annual gifts of home-made peanut brittle and jam made from the figs on her own tree.
In 1987, Connie passed away, doing what he loved best, playing tennis. Not content to be a lonely widow, Myrth learned to drive, made new friends, and as always gave her time, her talents, her tithes, and her love to everyone she encountered. In 1990, she married Forrest Feldmann, another resident of the El Dorado park, and the couple honeymooned on a cruise ship in Hawaii. After Forrest’s passing in 1997, Myrth retained her home in Fillmore, but became a part-time resident of Basalt, Colorado, where she and daughter Pamela attended the ballet, concerts, plays, benefits, and shopping trips to thrift stores filled with donations from the rich and famous of Aspen.
In 2007, weary of frequent air travel and the cold Colorado weather, she moved in with her son Bob and daughter-in-law Gail in Glendora, California. After three years, Myrth required more specialized care and lived in two assisted living facilities in San Dimas, California: Rainbow of Care and Atria Rancho Park Assisted Living Facility, where she was visited by many loving friends and relatives.
Myrth is survived by Bob Allen, son, of Glendora, California; Gail Allen, daughter-in-law, of Glendora, California; Pamela Nelson, daughter, of Glenwood Springs, Colorado; Ron Bell, nephew, of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Robert Bell, nephew, of Palm Springs, California; Jennifer Vercelli, granddaughter, of Santa Monica, California; Russell Allen, grandson, of Hemet, California; and Debby Wanland, granddaughter, of Dallas, Texas. She is also survived by 5 great grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial gifts be made to Bardsdale United Methodist Church.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, September 18, at 11:30 a.m. at Bardsdale United Methodist Church, 1498 Bardsdale Avenue, Fillmore, California. The service will be followed by a luncheon.

Joyce Robertson (LeBard) (1948 - 2011)

Joyce Robertson, beloved wife, mother and friend, fought a battle with cancer and lost. She can now rest in peace.
Joyce was born March 20, 1948 in Rahway, New Jersey. As a young child, Joyce traveled with her mother (Marge LeBard) to the town of Fillmore California. Joyce lived most of her childhood on a ranch in Bardsdale, California, with her mother, adopted father Harold LeBard (deceased), and Brother Jim LeBard.
Joyce attended the Bardsdale Elementary School, Fillmore Junior High School and Fillmore High School. She Graduated in 1966. She attended Colleges in Ventura County.
She worked customer service most of her career. She retired from the Banking Business, to travel and enjoy life with her husband Tom Robertson.
Joyce loved to ride horses as a child, play with her friends, and join in at family outings and activities. As an adult she loved to shop, travel and explore new things. She enjoyed being with family, friends, and most of all, having time with her son, Bryan Stafford.
Joyce is survived by her husband, Tom Robertson, her son, Bryan Stafford, mother, Marge LeBard, brother Jim LeBard, wife Kathy LeBard, nephew , Mike LeBard, sister, Lois LeBard Brown and Family, step children Stacy and Greg Andrews and family, Dawn Robertson and family, and many relatives and close friends.
Honoring Joyces request there will be no services.
In lieu of flowers, donations for Joyce, can be made to the Fillmore High School Alumni Association, p/o box 385, Fillmore, California, 93016-0385.

Ofelia T. Escoto (1927-2011)

“When Someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure”
Ofelia T. Escoto, 83 years old went to be with the lord on Saturday August 6, 2011 after a courageous battle with Parkinsons Disease for over 15 years. She was born Sept.1, 1927 in Villagran Guanajuato,Mexico to Heriberto Teniente and Concepcion Carmona.
She married Miguel Escoto on May 30, 1945 in Guanajuato, Mexico and then moved to Tijuana Mexico where all of her eight children were born. Ofelia came to live in Fillmore, California in 1961, where she worked as a babysitter/housekeeper for local families. In 1962 after a year she was able to bring all her children to Fillmore were they were raised and able to call home. She worked as a housekeeper for St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church for over 20 years where she was dearly loved by all the clergy and made numerous long lasting friendships in the community. Her favorite pastimes included knitting beautiful items which she made for all her family and cooking, which she was well known for her famous tamales in which at one time made over 40 dozen for a local company. Nana”which she was known by her family was the 'ROCK” the one to hold and give strength to keep the family together in good and bad times and although shes no longer with us, her legacy of Family shall and will continue in her honor.
She is survived by her sister Elena Ojeda and brother Juan Corrales of Guanajuato Mexico. She is also survived by her children; Raul Escoto, Mike Escoto (Vicky), John Escoto (Chantal), Rosalia Ofelia Agundez (Saul), Joe Escoto (Linda), Maria Rangel (Pedro) and Esther Moreno (Edgar). Grandchildren are; Veronica Cantu, Michael Escoto, Misty Blue Escoto, Fabian Escoto, Joy Escoto, Damon Escoto, Michelle Agundez,Edgar Agundez, Josh Agundez, Anya Castaneda, Angie Escoto, Reva Alcantar, Nia Escoto, Chris Escoto, Eloy Rangel, Pedro JR. Rangel, Jeanette Rangel, Jimmy Rangel, Adrian Rivas, Annabelle Maria and Anthony Moreno. She also left 18 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her spouse Miguel Escoto of Fillmore and an infant daughter Lourdes. Her Parents Heriberto Teniente and Concepcion Carmona. Brothers Heriberto Teniente and Salvador Teniente. Sisters Concepcion Goday, Obdulia Corrales and Guadalupe Cano all of Guanajuato Mexico.
The memorial service will be held at Perez Family Funeral Home, 1347 Del Norte Road, Camarillo, CA 93010. Visitations will be from 1pm-5pm. Rosary beginning at 7pm on Friday August 12, 2011 and Services to be be held at Noon on August 13,2011 at Holy Cross Church, Moorpark, Ca. 93010. Internment will follow immediately after services at Simi Valley Assumption Cemetary, Simi Valley. In Lieu of flowers, donations to a Parkinsons Disease charity for a cure and research will be greatly appreciated.

Robert L. Gilpin (1925-2011)

Robert L. Gilpin, 85, of St. Joseph, passed away Wednesday, August 3, 2011 at The Willows Assisted Living in St. Joseph. His wife, Mary Louise Gilpin, passed away May 1, 2008
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service for Bob and Mary Lou will be held 1:00 P.M. Saturday at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph with Linda Beushausen, Hospice at Home officiating. Memorials may be made to Hospice at Home, the Humane Society of Southwest Michigan or the American Cancer Society. Those wishing to sign Bob & Mary Lou’s Memory Book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
Bob was born August 22, 1925 in Lawrenceville, Illinois to Elmer J. & Alta Mae (Jordan) Gilpin. He graduated from Bushton High School in Bushton, Kansas in 1943. He served his country in the US Army 23rd Armored Division during WWII, stationed in Germany & Austria. On October 6, 1946, he married the former Mary Louise Carpenter in Claflin, Kansas. Bob worked over fifty years in the oil business in Kansas, Oklahoma and California. He was a 60 year member of Grand Lodge AF & AM of Kansas, Claflin Lodge #424, Order of The Eastern Star #428 Holyrood, Kansas, Midian Shriners of Wichita, Kansas, & Scottish Rite of Free Masonry Valley of Wichita Lodge. In his free time, Bob enjoyed golfing, fishing, bowling, and playing cards & dominos.
Bob is survived by his daughter Bobbe Lou Gilpin (Karl Gersonde) of St. Joseph; his son Bruce L. (Diana) Gilpin of Mount Juliet, TN; three grandchildren-Jennifer Gilpin, Stephanie Hillcher, & Michelle (George) Worthington; one great-granddaughter Elyse Worthington; three sisters Edna (Frank) Frey of Checotah, OK, Doris Glantz of Oklahoma City, OK, Ruth Stratman of Santa Maria, CA; his brother Jack (Bernice) Gilpin of Weinert, TX, and numerous nieces & nephews. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by two brothers-Jay & Carl Gilpin, and by a sister-in-law Lorraine Hammer.

Jean Mullen (1917-2011)

Jean Vivian Murray Thomas Nash Mullen passed away after a brief illness on Monday, August 1, 2011. Her loving sons, daughter, and grandchildren were able to spend the last few days with her reminiscing, reading scripture, and being by her side. She was a blessing to all who met her and the world will miss her.
She was born in Portland, Oregon, on October 16, 1917, and moved to California at the age of three. She lived in Los Angeles, Pasadena, and for the last thirty years in Fillmore, California.
She was the widow of husband Walter R. Thomas, D.O., M.D., and she is survived by her three children: son Walter R. Thomas, O.D.- wife Margaret, and children Jeff Thomas, M.D., and Mark Thomas, M.D.-wife Kristen Thomas; son Brien Leigh Thomas- wife Carolyn and children Christopher Thomas, Andrea Stegeman-husband Jay Stegeman with great-grandchildren Alexis, Nicole and Jack; Matthew Thomas, William Thomas, and step-child Matthew Gillmon-wife Giselle Gillmon; and her daughter Kathleen Smith-husband Gregory Smith and their children Kelly Perry-husband Cameron Perry and Kyle Smith.
She later married and was the widow of Dick Nash, and she is survived by stepchildren Bonnie Wade-husband John Wade and their four children and Nancy Zampelli-husband Jim Zampelli and her two children. Last, she married and widowed Clarence Mullen, and she is survived by stepdaughter Pat Hansen-husband Rob Hansen, Fillmore residents.
She attended UCLA and was a member of the Sorority Gamma Phi Beta, joined Fillmore Ebell Club, was a Docent at Rancho Camulos, was a member of P.E.O. Chapter GY, was a member of Faith Community Church, and thoroughly enjoyed her social bridge clubs.
The family will be holding graveside services at Rose Hills, 3888 Workman Mill Road Whittier, CA 90601 on Saturday, September 17th at 1:00pm. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Livingston Memorial www.lmvna.org or call (805) 642-0239.

Walker Lee Kozar (1950-2011)

Like a western hero Walker Kozar, 60, of Fillmore, rode off into the sunset on Sunday July 31, 2011. He died peacefully at home surrounded by his family after a two and half year battle with brain cancer. Walker was born October 18, 1950, in Santa Paula to John Sr. and Connie Kozar. He was the fourth child in his family. Walker was a lifelong Fillmore resident. He attended Fillmore schools graduating from Fillmore High School in 1969 where he was an outstanding football player and holds many football records. After high school he was drafted into the Army where he served two years, spending some time in Korea. He went to work for Unocal in 1975 where he worked his way up to become a foreman in charge of Torrey. He worked for Unocal for twenty years and retired in 1995. He then went to work for Bennett Construction as a heavy equipment operator. On April 20, 1974 he married Catherine Antonsen and they had two daughters. They were married for twenty seven years. Walker was an avid hunter and fisherman and enjoyed the outdoors. He thoroughly enjoyed watching his grandkids play sports and was their number one fan. He is preceded in death by his father John Kozar Sr. and his mother Connie. He is survived by his daughters Kimberly “Queen” Villegas and April “Apes” Kozar (Danny Nunez), his five grandchildren Ryan “Squeeks”, Bryce “Billy Bob”, Brooke “Lilly” Nunez, Tori “Victoria” and Sammy “Buster” Villegas. He was Papa Walker to them. He is also survived by all his brothers and sisters, Sam Bennett (Sharon), Nancy Carrillo (Simon), John Kozar Jr. (Lois), Penny Zavala and Bobby Kozar. He also had many nieces, nephews and cousins. Viewing will be held on Thursday August 4th 2011 at Skillin-Carrol Mortuary from 5pm-8pm. Celebration of Walker’s life will be held on Friday August 5th 2011 with a graveside service held at Bardsdale Cemetery at 10am. Gathering of family and friends will be held at the Piru Petroleum Club/ Brit Park on Guiberson Rd. after the service. In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Cancer Society in honor of Walker would be greatly appreciated. We would like to give a special thank you to Kathy “Sharky” Martinez, Dr. Larks and all the staff at the VCMC Oncology Clinic for all the love and support and guidance provided. We would have been lost without you.

Alvin C. Schneider, 74, of Poteau, OK passed away Monday, July 18, 2011 in Poteau. Alvin was born in Titusville, PA on October 23, 1936 to Nicolas & Hazel (Stufflebeam) Schneider. Alvin worked in city maintenance. Alvin & Leora were residents of Fillmore for some 35 years where he was the owner/operator of the Shell Station on Hwy 126.
Survivors include his wife, Leora of the home; 3 daughters, Lori Schneider McKeown of Fillmore, CA, Chery Schneider McGraw of Poteau, OK, Connie Upton of Summerfield, OK; 1 son, Allen Schneider of Poteau, OK; 23 Grandchildren; 9 Great Grandchildren; 1 brother, Robert Schneider of Titusville, PA; other relatives & loved ones, many beloved friends.
Services will be 10 am, Friday, July 22, 2011 at Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau, OK with Rev. Keith Williams officiating. Interment will follow in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK.

Mark Russell Stethem (1956-2011)

Mark Russell Stethem, beloved son and brother, was born May 5, 1956 in Norfolk Virginia, and passed away of natural causes June 21, 2011 in Phoenix, Arizona.
Mark grew up in Fillmore, CA. He graduated from Fillmore High School, where he was active in FFA. He later attended Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, where he studied agriculture and business.
In 1999, Mark moved to Phoenix to work in the medical supply business.
Throughout his life Mark had a love for travel, art and music. He was also a sports fan, and follower of current events. He had a strong faith in God and an abiding love for his family.
Mark was a dear, tender soul who will be missed by his family and friends.
Please join the family at the memorial service to be held July 30, 2011 at 9:00am at 605 Old Telegraph Road, Fillmore, CA 93015

Shirley Elizabeth Brown Moore (1916-2010)

Shirley Elizabeth Brown Moore, 94, born July 21, 1916, in Saskatchewan, Canada, widow of George W. Moore II, passed away Dec. 22, 2010, at home, in Fillmore. She had a busy life as an orange rancher’s wife, mother of four and, for 31 years, the librarian at Santa Paula High School. Her students were her second family. All were treated with dignity and love.
Shirley encouraged and gave direction to many children, helping them to understand and utilize their gifts. She was proudest of the professions and contributions of her 24 blood descendants.
She is survived by her sons, George W. Moore III, Reagan W. Moore, PhD, and Dwight V. Moore, and daughter, Kathleen Moore Bishop, MD, 11 grandchildren, and 9 greatgrandchildren.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Universalist Unitarian Church, 740 E. Main, Santa Paula, on Saturday,
July 23 at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please read a book and support your local library.
Please sign the guest book at obits.VenturaCountyStar.com.

Consuelo (Connie) Pérez Romero (1948-2011)

Consuelo (Connie) Pérez Romero, June 3, 1948-June 20, 2011, was born 9th of 17 children to Germán Zermeño Romero and María del Refugio Pérez Romero. She was raised in Fillmore, California, attended public schools, graduated and then was granted admission to the Carmelite Sisters of the Divine Heart of Jesus Order on July 26, 1968, where she served the Lord at Little Flower Haven, in La Mesa, CA. for the rest of her life. She became known as and blessed with the name Sister María Rosalía de Jesús.
As a servant of God she held many positions: Licensed Vocational Nurse, Preschool Teacher, Activities Director, organist and vocalist leading hymns for her Carmelite family and people in residence. She was eventually elevated to the position of Mother Superior. Our “hermana” took her vows and “lived” them until the end: chastity, poverty, and obedience.
Our “Little Flower” has gone to her “Haven”, to join her departed hermanos Jesús, Rubén, and Rebeca as well as her Mamá y Papá whom she greatly missed and looked forward to seeing, along with her Lord. Many uncles, aunts, and cousins also preceded her in death: Paternal “Romero” uncles and aunt Hemeterio, Juan, Benjamin, Pedro, Rafael, Esther, and Alfonso. Maternal “Pérez” uncles and aunt were: Jesús, Socorro, and Father Rubén, all of Jalisco, Mexico, and cousins, Arturo Romero and Robert Romero.
She leaves behind several siblings, in-laws, aunts, nieces and nephews, as well as a few great-nieces and great-nephews. Siblings include Catalina Romero Mull (Daniel); Francisco Pérez Romero (Francisca, children Laura, Frank Jr., Nancy, and Anthony); Ricardo Pérez Romero (children Richard C., Rebecca Spencer, Teresa Cruz, and Michael); Josefina Romero Guerrero (Richard, children Carlos, Marisa, and Lia); Manuel Pérez Romero (Blanca, children Marisela, and Daniel); Guadalupe Romero García (children Arthur Jr., Greg, and Maria); Roberto Pérez Romero; Rosa Romero Supina (David, children Lisa and Stephanie); Juan Pérez Romero; Ofelia Romero-Motlagh (Abbas); Anita Pérez Romero; Irene Romero Page (Darryl, sons Alonzo and Nicolas); and Gloria Romero-García (Tim and daughter Cristina). Other in-laws include Arthur Garcia and Jenny Chavez. Her surviving aunt is Dolores Pérez de Diaz of Mexico and aunts-in-law Alice Bustamante Romero and Margarita Morones Romero of Ventura County, California.
Her last “Romero home visit” was a joyful time when family joined to celebrate a graduation at a party for her nephew, Alonzo, on Saturday, June 18, 2011. She attended Mass on Father’s Day, June 19 and that evening, spent time listening to Mariachi music, eating her favorite meal: enchiladas. Usually, her free time was spent with her sisters/family at the convent enjoying recreation activities and reading.
She never asked for anything but on her last day, asked for our prayers. She said she needed them. In spite of this, there was not fear but readiness to go to her next home, next life. She passed away unexpectedly in San Gabriel, California with family by her side. She will be remembered for her laughter, Godliness, love of family, and ability to connect with others. This brought her much joy and happiness. She truly lived her “calling” per her order:
To give God joy is our Vocation.
“She was our “gift” in this life and she will be greatly missed, always admired, respected, and loved. Consuelo, duerme con los angelitos. Te amamos mucho y así siempre será.”
Services were held on June 24 (Rosary) and June 25, 2011 (Mass) at
Little Flower Haven. Donations may be made to:
Carmelite Sisters, DHJ
8585 La Mesa Blvd.
La Mesa, California 91941

Jalaine Dewey Maxwell Helms (1939-2011)

Lifelong Fillmore resident, Jalaine Dewey Maxwell Helms, 71, passed away peacefully in her sleep at her home July 3 after a long illness. Her loving sons and granddaughter were able to spend several days with her just before she passed.
Jalaine Marie was born September 27, 1939 to Franklin and Mildred Dewey. In 1958 she married Mickey “Jim” Maxwell and they had two sons, Mark and Todd. Jalaine was a beautician for many years and enjoyed the creativity of hairstyling as well as the many friendships she made. She was active at Trinity Episcopal Church and especially enjoyed working on the prime rib dinner decorations. She was involved in several service clubs. Her favorite hobby was working in her yard. She was a wonderful cook and enjoyed entertaining her friends and family at dinner parties, especially at the holidays.
Jalaine is survived by her son Mark Maxwell of Fillmore and her son Todd Maxwell of Alaska. She is also survived by grandchildren Jennifer, and her husband Danny Paddock, of Tennessee, and James Dillon “J D” Maxwell of Alaska, stepdaughter Rhonda Munro, grandchildren Devin and Michael Munro and stepson Rick Helms. She is also survived by her brother Bill Dewey, his wife Ellen, and their daughters, Kathryn Pace and Kristen Dewey.
The family wishes to thank her special caregiver and friend, Maria Gonzales, for her years of loving and compassionate care, and her friend and caregiver David Reeves for his special care in recent months.
At her request there will be a memorial service for family and friends at her favorite place, the beach. Friends and family will be notified at a later date. In lieu of flowers a donation may be made in her memory to Trinity Church preservation fund.

Alexander Paul Villasenor (1974-2011)

Alexander Paul Villasenor, 36, died June 1, 2011, after a courageous two-year battle with cancer. Alex passed away peacefully at his home in Ventura with his beloved wife and family by his side. The funeral Mass for Alex was celebrated on June 7th at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church in Ventura. His interment was at the Bardsdale Cemetery in Fillmore.
Alex was born Aug.23, 1974 in Ventura to Enrique (Rick) and Christine Villasenor. He was raised in Fillmore and attended elementary and junior high school in Fillmore before graduating from St. Bonaventure High School in Ventura. Alex embraced life and lived it to the fullest. He enjoyed surfing, trips to the beach, reading comic books, camping, and any other activity that involved spending time with his family.
He was a talented artist, a hard worker, and a great cook. But his true brilliance showed in his personal relationships. He was a friend to all, greeting everyone with the same bright smile. His thoughtful ways and genuine nature impressed all who were privileged enough to know him. Alex was cherished by his family and he took advantage of every opportunity to show them how much he loved them as well. He had special relationships with his parents, his siblings and the large family he married into.
Alex has left his wife Anna, his children, Nathan, Andrew, and Natalie, his family and friends a wonderful example of how to face life’s joys and adversities with courage, strength and love. Alex never gave up living his life. He was strong in his faith and took comfort in the extraordinary support of his family friends and communities of Our Lady of Assumption Church and parish school. The outpouring of love from friends and strangers would bring tears to his eyes. We can all take comfort knowing that his giving spirit will be watching over us.
Alex was preceded in death by great-grandmother, Hazel Elkins; grandparents Herculano and Enriqueta Villasenor; Alex is survived by his wife Anna, and children, Nathan 9, Andrew 8, and Natalie 6. He is also survived by his grandmother Carolyn Elkins Sherman; father Enrique; mother, Christine; twin sister Alison (husband Robert Jaramillo); and brothers, Christian (wife Briana), Nicholas (wife Nicole), and Noah.
The Villasenor Family would like to thank everyone who supported Alex during his long illness. The prayers and the unending love for him have empowered us. Words cannot express how we feel. He will be missed but not forgotten.
Memorial donations can be made out to the “Alex Villasenor Family Fund.” Please visit (www.alexvillasenorfamilyfund.com) for complete details.
Donations may be made at any Santa Barbara Bank and Trust.

Karen Lee Magaña (1957-2011)

Karen Lee Magaña passed away Friday, June 10, 2011 after a short illness at the age of 53. Born in Santa Paula, CA on June 14, 1957. She grew up in Piru, attended Fillmore schools and graduated from Fillmore High School in 1975. She lived and worked in Santa Paula for much of her adult life. Karen was a kind-hearted person who cared a lot about others and helped them as much as possible. Karen had great love for animals, especially cats and dogs, and would go out of her way to help and find homes for them.
Over the years, Karen worked at various places, such as: McDonald’s, Twin Pines Healthcare, Elkins Golf Course, and Fillmore Café. She loved creating relationships with her customers and co-workers.
Karen is survived by her Husband Tom Magaña, Mother Jane Johnson, Brother Kelly Johnson, Daughter Diane Dominguez & Husband Angel, Son Robert Magaña & Wife Monique; Grandchildren; Xico, Quetzalli, Nez, Darla, & Citlalin; Aunt Charlene Dryden, Cousin Leah Taylor, Nephew Logan Boe, Cousin Vance Johnson, Cousin Scott Johnson & Wife Patty, Cousin Becky and Husband Tut, Cousin Jan Bryant, & Husband Chuck; good friends Brian Williams & Michael Rummans; pets: cats Rufus & Vladie & Ding the dog.
The family will be holding a potluck memorial at the Johnson Residents at 453 Blaine Avenue, Fillmore, CA.

Stephen Arthur Bly (1944-2011)

Stephen Arthur Bly, 66, of Winchester, Idaho, passed away June 9, 2011, of prostate cancer.
Steve was born August 17, 1944, to Arthur Worthington Bly and Alice Wilson Bly, of Ivanhoe, California. He married Janet Chester in 1963 and they raised three sons, Russell, Michael, and Aaron.
He graduated summa cum laude in Philosophy from Fresno State University in 1971 and received an M. Div. from Fuller Theological Seminary 1974. He served as pastor of Woodlake Presbyterian Church, Fillmore Bible Church (1978 - 1988) and Winchester Community Church.
Steve authored and co-authored with his wife, Janet, more than 100 nonfiction and fiction books. In May his most recent historical western was released, Throw The Devil Off The Train. He was a winner and finalist for the prestigious Christy Award for four of his novels. He was a member of the Western Writers of America. A complete list of his books can be found online at Wikipedia.com.
He is survived by his wife, Janet, of Winchester; son Russ Bly and wife Lois, of Lewiston, Idaho; son Mike Bly and wife Michelle of Lewiston; son Aaron Bly and wife Rina of Lewiston; grandchildren Zachary Bly, Miranda Ross and husband Chris Ross, Keaton Bly, Deckard Bly, all of Lewiston; great-granddaughter, Alayah Ross of Lewiston; sister Judy Walston and husband Bill of Ivanhoe; nephew Stephen Walston and wife Natalie of Eureka; niece Stella Walston and nephew Porter Walston of Eureka; as well as numerous other nieces and nephews, cousins, sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Winchester Community Church, c/o Brad Ailor, P. O. Box 422, Winchester, Idaho, 83555 or to a cancer research foundation of your choice.

Kenton Stafford (1949-2011)

Our beloved husband, dad, papa, brother, uncle/tio, and friend Kenton Stafford, born March 16, 1949, suffered a major heart attack June 4th 2011, while doing what he loved, working in the beautiful Sespe Mountains.
He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Linda Stafford, his children Leona (Mike), Andrea (John), Reggie (Maylis), 14 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild, siblings: Norm (Christy), Darlene (Brad), and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Don and Pearl Stafford, his twin sister Donna and his great grandchild Jennie Rose Palmateer.
He had many loves in his life besides Linda, like football (Go COWBOYS!), camping, golf, fishing, hanging out in the garage with friends, BBQ’ing (which he was very good at), and operating his backhoe.
Kenton was loved by everyone he came in contact with. He was a very giving man and would do anything for ANYONE. He never met a stranger. Many of his “Friends” were not only friends but quickly became a part of his “Family”.
Thank you Kenton, for being a part of our family and lives. You will be greatly missed and NEVER forgotten.
Viewing will be at the Skillin Carroll Mortuary 600 Central Ave, Fillmore June 8th from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. The services will be at Faith Community Church, 355 D St. in Fillmore June 9th at 10 a.m. There will be a BBQ to celebrate his life at Piru Petroleum Club/Britt Park in Piru at 12 noon.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his honor to the American Cancer Society.

Annie Veda Russell (1921-2011)

Veda departed Wednesday,May 25,2011 at home,at the age of 89. She was born July 20,1921 in Scott County,Arkansas, the first of eight children to John D. and Virginia Belle Alley. She married three times and had six children. Donald, Mary Sue, Johnny, Ronald, Roger, and Patty Sue. Veda was preceded by her husbands,and her son Johnny. Veda is survived by her 5 remaining children, 16 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren,and 9 great-great grandchildren. In Addition to Homemaker,Veda was a lifetime writer,educator and student of the Baptist Church. Veda held many job titles in the Church. She served God all her life. Veda enjoyed and loved her family and friends. She loved to garden and enjoyed her flowers.Veda will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
She lived her last days as she did every day of her life with dignity, respect, courage,hope, love,and in the spirit of God. She will rest in peace in her beloved home town of Waldron, Arkansas.
Funeral Services for Annie Veda Russell will be at 4:00 p.m., Tuesday,May 31,2011

Dorothy Mae (Smith) Hall (1924-2011)

TRIBUTE TO "GRANDMA DOT"
"Grandma Dot" graduated to her heavenly home on her 87th birthday on May 31, 2011 following complications from hip replacement surgery. She was surrounded by her loving family as she peacefully slipped away.
Dorothy Mae (Smith) Hall was born on May 31, 1924 in Booneville, Arkansas to Calvin and Pearl Smith. She was the third youngest of 11 children and learned what it was to work hard at an early age. She worked in cotton fields to supplement her family's income and began working for Dr. and Mrs. McConnell at age 14 as a cook and housekeeper. She always said Mrs. McConnell taught her how to cook, and her family has enjoyed the fruits of that for many years. Nothing compared to Grandma Dot's home cooked meals and her homemade rolls!
She married her one and only true love, Floyd Hall, on May 17, 1941, and she was devoted to him until his death in 1988.
She was an accomplished seamstress and in earlier years was always making clothes for her daughter and two grandsons who proudly wore her handiwork. Her proudest work achievement was her 25+ years working at the Olga Company as a Training Supervisor. She always gave God credit for her good job because she had very little formal education. She was respected by the ladies there because of her fair mindedness and sweet disposition. It was a mutual admiration. She always considered the "girls" her extended family.
She leaves behind her son-in-law and daughter, Frank and Peggy Boblett. She had the gift of always making her daughter feel like she was the most treasured thing in the world. She was also so proud of her grandsons and their wives, Michael Warren Boblett (Shelley Evans) and Andrew Wade Boblett (Rosemary Hidalgo), and great-grandsons Justin Michael Boblett (21), Logan Edward Boblett (14), and Diego Andrew Hidalgo Boblett (11 months).
Her family was the love of her life and she constantly demonstrated her unconditional love and devotion to them her entire life. Everyone in her family knew that she loved them beyond measure because of her constant words of encouragement and loving actions. Nothing will ever replace that. She leaves a void in all of our hearts that will not be filled until we see her again in heaven....which we will!
Her greatest gift to her family and those around her was her steadfast dedication to her Lord Jesus Christ. She constantly showed by example what it meant to put God first in everything.
We would like to express our heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Alexander Meyer, her Family Physician, who showed unending compassion and caring, as well as the staff of Westside Family Practice, who always went the extra mile for her. Dr. Meyer's patience and listening ears always made her feel like she was the only patient he had. We would also like to thank her Surgeon, Dr. Larry Schatz, her Anesthesiologist, Dr. Citrenbaum, her Med/Surg. Nurses, Jennifer and Leanna, Nursing Assistant, Rosa, and the ICU staff of Santa Paula Hospital. Their tender care and comfort helped ease the pain of losing someone so precious.
We love you Grandma Dot and miss you so much already. When God made you, He "threw away the mold." There will never be another angel like you!
Visitation will be at Fillmore Skillin-Carroll Mortuary on Friday, June 3, 2011 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and a graveside service were held at Bardsdale Cemetery on Saturday, June 4, 2011 at 9:30 a.m.

Mary V. Morales (1919-2011)

Mary V. Morales, 91, of Fillmore passed away at home surrounded by family and friends in the early hours of May 29th, 2011.
Mary was born on June 8th, 1919 in Saugus California to Mary Turner Videgain and Miguel Videgain. By the age of 5, both of her parents had passed away and she was raised by her 6 bothers in the San Martinez Canyon area (near Val Verde). At that time children attended school in Piru, Ca. After Mary completed the 6th grade she did not return to school, instead she began working cleaning houses to help support herself. She was able to find work at this early age by saying she was much older than she was.
At the age of 19 Mary met and fell in love with Raymond Morales of Fillmore. They were married soon after and moved to Fillmore where she lived until the time of her death.
Mary was an active member of the Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church as well as “The Guadalupanas” church group for many years. She mostly enjoyed the fundraisers where they made tamales.
Through out her life she continued to work as a house cleaner, in the catering business and retired after 25 years from a local packinghouse due to a work injury. It wasn’t until after she recovered from her injury that she began to enjoy being a full time homemaker. She enjoyed embroidery, sewing, cooking, baking, playing cards with family and friends but especially her gambling trips to Laughlin, Nevada. This was all second to her love for her grandchildren.
Preceding her death, are husband Raymond S. Morales and infant daughter, Arsenia Morales.
Mary is survived by her children Linda Alba, Dorothy Sandoval & Phillip Morales, grandchildren, Jerome, Michael & Robbie Alba, Joseph, Crystal & Anthony Sandoval, Natasha Morales, 13 great grandchildren and 4 great great grandchildren. Rosary will be held Monday, June 6th 7:45p.m. and Mass will be on June 7th at 9:30 am Saint Francis Church of Assisi. Burial immediately following at Santa Paula Cemetery. Arrangements are under Skillin Carroll Mortuary.

William "Mark" Stevens (1955-2011)

Born August 13, 1955, passed away May 19, 2011, of hearth failure.
He is survived by his two brothers and one sister, Ron (Audrey) Stevens, Bob (Penny) Stevens, and Beverly Myers, along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great nephews. He is also survived by his "Friday Night poker Buddies," who he loved and looked forward to having each Friday night. No services at his request, just leaving his memory. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity in Mark's name.