Holly Mechele Hight (1965-2019)

Holly Mechele Hight, age 53, passed away in her hometown of Fillmore, California, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was at home surrounded by her family and pets where she could look out her many windows at the trees and flowers in the yard and watch the hummingbirds visit the feeder outside her porch.
Holly was born on December 20, 1965, at Santa Paula Hospital. She was a special child who remained at home with her mother her entire life, although she attended various school programs and made friends that she loved dearly. Most recently, Holly attended Santa Paula Arc, where she adored the many teachers that worked with her and all her friends on a daily basis. Her favorite things in life were her family, her dogs Bruno and Brix, her school and all holidays, especially Christmas. Every year, Holly looked forward to her December birthday with great anticipation. She also looked forward to wearing one of her many Christmas sweaters and socks in anticipation of the arrival of Santa Claus.
Although Holly was a feisty girl, she had a tender side laced with love, compassion and generosity. She was an innocent child whose essence transmuted into adulthood and whose presence communicated rare and valuable life lessons to those fortunate enough to know her. Her life challenges were numerous, but her own toughness and the love and support of her family and friends eased her path and her unique presence enriched their lives in turn.
Holly is survived by her mother and stepfather, Sue Maynard and Garland Maynard of Fillmore; her brother Patrick Maynard of Fillmore; her sister Kellie Hight Warriner of Ojai; her brothers Justin and Sean Hight of Ventura; her niece Caitlin Slay Phillip and her husband Ryan Phillip and their son, her nephew Elwood Phillip of Los Osos; her uncle Joe Stroud of Ventura; her aunt Gail Vest Wade of Bolivar, MO; and her beloved dogs Bruno and Brix. She was preceded in death this year by her father, Bud Hight, of Ventura, and in years past by her baby brother, Aaron Paul Maynard of Fillmore, and her grandparents Donald and Idotha Vest, both of Bolivar, MO.
Special thanks to the entire team of guardian angels from the Arc if Santa Paula for their years of support, love and dedication they shared with Holly. You are a wonderful organization and we greatly appreciate everything you did for Holly and for our family.
Memorial services will be held Saturday, November 23, 2019 at 11:00am at the Bardsdale Cemetery in the City of Fillmore.

Floyd Charles Lowe

Floyd Charles Lowe, age 89, a former long term resident of Fillmore, CA died peacefully with his wife by his side, on October 31st, 2019. He was lovingly referred to as Bud or Bubba by all who knew him.
Bud joined The United States Navy at the young age of 17 where he proudly served his country from 1947 to 1951 fighting in the Korean War. Soon after the navy, he met and fell in love with Marlene Dortha Snow and married her in holy matrimony on July 26th, 1952. Bud and Marlene started their lives off together by first purchasing land and building their home in Fillmore, CA. They soon welcomed their beloved son, Jeff, into the world and he filled their hearts and home with love. Soon after, they built their heavy equipment company from the ground up and proudly called it Lowe Construction. Bud was a hard working and successful business owner and a proud member of the Operating Engineers Union. Bud was a generous and caring man. He always tried to make an effort to share his knowledge and resources with others' in hopes that it would assist in advancing their personal and/or professional goals. Bud was very active in the Fillmore community where his passion shone through the most in the Fillmore Historical Museum. He also had a great passion for the efforts of the Free Mason Society.
Bud leaves behind his wife, Marlene Lowe of 67 years, his Grandchildren, Great Grandchildren, as well as many other family members and friends. He has joined his Parents, beloved Son, and Great Grandson in Heaven.
Services will be held on Monday, November 25th at 11am, located at Bardsdale Cemetery. All is welcome.

Jo Ann Dunehew (1941-2019)

Jo Ann Dunehew was born on, August 7, 1941 in Missouri, and passed away on Nov 7, 2019; In Ventura CA.
Jo Ann was a lifetime resident of Ventura County, she grew up on Rancho Sespe just west of Fillmore.
1960 was a big year for Jo Ann; she graduated from Fillmore High School and married Tommy Joe Dunehew in the same year. She spent her career working at the packing house on 3rd St. in North Fillmore. She retired in 2012, after 45 years. She was an incredible wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.
She is preceded in death by her Father, Omer Townsend, Mother, Mary Townsend and brother Burl Townsend.
She is survived by her Husband, Tom Dunehew Sr.; and 3 Sons: Tom (Marisela) Dunehew Jr, Don (Patricia) Dunehew and Richard Townsend.
She is also survived by 12 Grandchildren and 9 Great Grandchildren.
She will be dearly missed by all.
Funeral Services for Jo Ann will be held on Wednesday, November 20, 2019 starting with a Viewing at 4:00pm at Funeraria Del Angel Santa Paula, located at 128 S. 8th St in Santa Paula, followed by a Memorial Service on Thursday, Nov 21, 2019 at 10:00am at Funeraria Del Angel Santa Paula. Graveside Services will immediately follow at 11:30am at Bardsdale Cemetery, 1698 S Sespe St, in Fillmore.

Raymond Dressler (1927-2019)

It is with sadness the family of Raymond Leroy Dressler announces his passing on October 17, 2019 in Fillmore, California, due to dementia, heart and pulmonary failure. Ray leaves behind his wife Judy, of 42 years, son Dean Dressler, daughter Donna Furlong, stepson Paul (Sandra) Scholz and stepdaughter Kristen (Bob) Cumby. Ray is also survived by his grandchildren Melissa, Eric, Lauren, Danielle, Kevin, Walker and Madison; great grandchildren, James, Leon and Jack.
Ray was born in Chicago, Illinois on March 27, 1927. His parents were Arthur and Cecelia. He served faithfully in the Marines during World War II. In his early 20’s, Ray moved the family from Chicago to Torrance, California where his family was raised. He enjoyed spending time with family, attending sport and school events. Ray enjoyed a long and successful career in the aerospace industry. He was a loving and successful father and husband. He was known as a kind man by all who ever met him.
During his residence in Fillmore, Ray enjoyed the time he served on the City Planning Commission and on the Fillmore City Council, participating in many city events. He was a familiar figure for many years on his daily walks through town with Judy.
His family celebrates his life and their fond, happy memories of him. A “Celebration of Life” is scheduled at a later date for family and friends to remember him.

Margaret Hackney Haskell (1925-2019)

Margaret Hackney Haskell was born January 10, 1925 in Redlands, California and passed away October 5, 2019 in Fillmore, California. Her parents were Paul and Florence Hackney. When Margaret was a toddler her family moved to Piru where Paul went to work on the Newhall Ranch as a farm superintendent. Five years later her brother, Richard was born. Margaret attended Piru Elementary and Fillmore High School where she excelled in academics and competed in various sports. Her passions were tennis and badminton. Upon graduation in 1942, she entered USC where she majored in physical education and earned her teaching credential. When William S. Hart High opened its doors in Newhall she was among the founding faculty and taught there, on and off, for the next thirty years.
In July of 1947 Margaret married the love of her life, Sam Haskell, a farmer from Saugus. They had two children, Christine and Steve. Raising an active family and teaching during the 50's and early 60's was demanding but rewarding. Margaret volunteered in Campfire Girls, Boy Scouts, Little League and 4-H. Always active in her church, she served as deacon, elder and president of the women's society. And Sam and Margaret loved to square dance.
When she and Sam both retired they moved to Fillmore. Margaret continued her church activities as well as joining Ebell, playing bridge, volunteering for the Fillmore High School Alumni Association and being a grandmother. Margaret continued to lead a very busy family and social life well into her nineties.
She is preceded in death by Sam, her husband of 49 years. She is survived by her brother, Richard; her children Christine and Ernie Villegas; Steve and Laura Haskell; her grandchildren Steve and Alicia Villegas; Brian and Candice Villegas; Tim and Tiffany Villegas; Alexandra Haskell and James Tomasick Sr., Caitlin Haskell and Blake Corbin; great-grandchildren Victoria, Bella, Sofia, Brian Jr., Vincent, Giada, Ariana, Alaina, Troy, Joey and James Jr.
There will be a private internment service at the Bardsdale Cemetery and a memorial service to be announced. In lieu of flowers you may honor Margaret with a donation to the Fillmore High School Alumni Association.

John Leslie Ohngren, III (1948-2019)

Johnny “O” as he was known, grew up in the San Fernando Valley in the days when you played outside until dark, did your chores, worked hard in school and made the best of every situation. He was an outstanding high school baseball player and played on the first instructional farm team of the San Francisco Giants. All of that was interrupted by the call from Uncle Sam. As a member of the 25th Tropic Light Infantry Division, U.S. Army, he served in Viet Nam in 1968-1969, and survived the second Tet Offensive attack at Cu Chi.
After the military he married and had one child, his beloved Nikki Scott, (husband Tom Scott). Nikki is mom to “Papa’s” amazing grandkids, Sarah and Trevor Scott.
John enjoyed a successful career in manufacturing sales and earned many sales achievement awards.
He was the funniest one in the family and we can all tell stories of his famous or infamous pranks! His kind heart and sense of humor will be greatly missed by Nikki, Tom, Sarah, and Trevor. He also leaves behind loving sisters Jan (Dave Paris) and Linda (Gary Sewall), brother Ron (Setsuko Yoncich) and his darling mother Geri Pobjoy. He will be forever in the hearts of nieces and nephews, Fred, Kristen, Joe, Mike, Kenny, Raymond, and Sylvia. A Family memorial will be held at a later date.

David Nyland Smith (1962-2019)

David Nyland Smith, 57, of Santa Paula, California, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, September 17, 2019 surrounded by his wife, children, and family.
His Celebration of Life memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, October 12, 2019 at Catalyst Church, at 241 North Mill Street, Santa Paula (the corner of Mill and Santa Paula Streets.) The community, family, and friends are encouraged to attend.
David was born January 13, 1962 to Paul James and Laura (Nyland) Smith in Hennepin, Minnesota, the fifth child and first son of eight children. The family moved from Minnesota to Santa Paula, California in 1967. He graduated from Santa Paula High School in 1980. In 1989, David met Michelle Horne, his beautiful bride and wife of 30 years, and the two were married in Santa Paula, California on October 28, 1989. Together, they raised three phenomenal children.
David is survived by his loving wife Michelle; son Talon Smith; daughters Miranda Smith and Camille (Kevin Aten) Smith; his mother Laura Caroline (Nyland) Smith, brother James Paul (Melissa) Smith; sisters Sheila (Gary Goff) Lawrence, Brenda (Tim) Woodward, Juliann Smith, Cynthia (Jim) Price, Jennifer (Augie) Reyes, and Andrea Hurtado; nieces Daisha, Jerica, Hannah, Megan, Maggie, Olivia, Racheal, Brittney (son Brenden), and Haley; nephews Sam, Jake, Dexter, Mackenzie, Nathan, Roberto, Jason, Kenny, Mark and Aaron, and numerous cousins, aunts and uncles and extended family. David was preceded in death by his son Justin Allen, his father Paul James, his niece Ashley, and father in law Billy Joe Horne. David was a loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend to everyone.
David loved spending time with his wife and children, dogs Buddy and Zoey, close family, neighbors, and friends. He loved camping, gardening and all things "Star Wars". David worked offshore in the oil industry for 23 years. He always spoke dotingly of his time as a 'roughneck' on the offshore oil platforms. He also worked at Ameron in Fillmore, but he was forced to give up the careers he loved due to injury. As a retiree, he spent his free time loving and helping his family, volunteering, raising roses, gardening, helping his sister Andi care for their mom, watching various sports, sci-fi movies and was an avid reader.
An eternally present and supportive father, he was very active in the lives of his children. He attended nearly every Santa Paula High School football game. He was present for every pig weigh-in and Ventura County Fair livestock show during the FFA pig raising years, and was the farm dad to everyone. He lived life as a professional volunteer, giving a helping hand to whoever needed it.
His wife Michelle is devastated by the sudden death of the love of her life, her most loyal and affectionate partner in life. Looking back at their sweet love story, Michelle said, “He always encouraged me that things are not always as bad as they seemed. When I wanted to give up or said I couldn't do something, David would always remind me of all the things I have accomplished.” She continues to cherish the mundane memories in detail: “I’m going to miss his spilled coffee on the counter every morning and the black Spider-Man mug sitting in the sink, coffee in bed every morning, and the hot lunch sitting on the table everyday when I came home for lunch.”
David’s brother and sisters are shocked by their brother’s sudden passing, as it occurred far too soon. They are all gathering together this week in Santa Paula and extend their gratitude to everyone for their love and concern, especially for his wife and children.
Juliann Smith, first editor of the Fillmore Gazette and Fillmore Outlook and one of David’s six sisters remembers her brother fondly, “With his gentle spirit and strength of character, huge hands and big heart, David was loved and respected by all in our family and all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.”
The family would like to give a special thank you to the nurses and doctors at Community Memorial Hospital in Ventura for their loving care and support during his final days.
The family would also like to extend their sincerest gratitude to all friends, family, and those at Catalyst Church for being very accommodating and understanding during this difficult time.
Following the Celebration Of Life Memorial Service on Saturday, October 12, 2019 there will be a potluck reception in the dining /reception hall at Catalyst immediately following the service. Those wanting to donate finger-foods can drop off at the church kitchen before or immediately after service. Those wishing to sign the guest book and share memories may do so that day or by visiting the memorial website created in honor of David at: https://everloved.com/life-of/david-smith

Steven Douglas Weeks (1950-2019)

It is with great sadness the family of Steven Douglas Weeks announces his passing on September 29, 2019 in Templeton, California due to complications of Frontal Temporal Dementia (FTD). The family rejoices that Steve is now free of pain and is with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Steve leaves behind his wife of 49 years, Denise, and his children: Robert Weeks (Jennifer) of Chicago, IL.); Ryan Weeks (Tara) of Ventura CA; Ashlee Loughran (Garrett) of San Luis Obispo CA; and Brett Weeks (Ellie) of Los Angeles CA. Steve is also survived by his grandchildren Kathryn Weeks, Addison Weeks, Ty Weeks, Parker Loughran, Hudson Loughran, and Elle Loughran.
Steve was born March 11, 1950 in Fillmore, California, the son of Jack and Patricia Weeks, where he graduated from Fillmore High School, and also met the love of his life, Denise Smith. He went on to graduate with a degree in criminal justice from CSU Long Beach before beginning his law enforcement career as a Ventura County Sheriff Deputy and then as an officer with Ventura Police Department. He later followed his love of cars and began working in the car industry, and worked at Smith Volvo beginning in 1989 until his retirement.
Steve enjoyed spending time with his family, attending the sporting events of his children and grandchildren, “cowboy shooting” with SASS, and making his special “apple pie” to share with his friends. He is well known for being outgoing, happy, and kind by all who ever met him, and relished his title as “Unofficial Mayor of San Luis Obispo”—a testament to the vast number of people he met and befriended during his time there. He will be missed by all who knew him. His family celebrates his life and their fond memories of him, and will continue to honor him by actively assisting in medical research to eradicate the disease that took him from them too soon.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 12, 2019 at Mountainbrook Church in San Luis Obispo.

Pat Platt was born April 21, 1935 in Fillmore, California to Bertha May Brown and Charles R. Platt I. On September 3, 2019 he passed away after suffering from Alzheimers the past five years. He was the youngest of 6 children, Don, Virgil and Eula Smith and Mildred and Doris Platt all of whom predeceased him. Pat grew up in Fillmore graduating from Fillmore High in 1953. During his high school years he excelled in Baseball, Football and Basketball.
After high school Pat signed with the Pittsburg Pirates and played in their minor leagues. He eventually moved to San Jose where he graduated from San Jose State University. After graduating he worked for Campbell Union School District and the Santa Clara County Office of Education. He retired as a high school Principal. In 1966 he married Pat Jones. They were married for 54 glorious years and had two children, Michael Platt (Crystal) and Stacey Halkias (Todd). They were the proud grandparents of Dylan, Deryn, Dymon, Alicia, Breanna and Charlie. They had one great grandchild, Cinderella.
A Memorial Service is being held at 10 a.m., Saturday, October 5, 2019 at St. Francis Episcopal Church, 1205 Pine Ave., San Jose, CA 95125.

Dorothy Elaine Krizer (1933-2019)

Dorothy Elaine Krizer, loving Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother and friend of all, was summoned home by the Lord on Sept. 24th, 2019, surrounded by her children. Dorothy left in anticipation of reuniting with her husband Ron and the others who preceded her to the other side of this life.
Dorothy Elain Sriver-Krizer was born in Ottumwa, Iowa, the daughter of Charles Sriver, an engineer who drove trains for the Burlington Railroad including the Denver Zephyre, and Marie Baumgartner Sriver. A granddaughter of Swiss immigrants on one side, she was also a G-G-Grandaughter of early English colonists, whose descendants supported the Revolution and fought the British at Bunker Hill making her a Daughter of the Revolution. She attended Ottumwa High School growing up in a large family, and participated in many school activities like choral singing and serving in various clubs. In Ottumwa she met her best friend and love of her life, and during the Korean War married Ron Krizer and started life together with him in the US Air Force, deploying to Eilson Air Force Base in Fairbanks, Alaska.
Dorothy and Ron had three children, each born in a different state, as she accompanied her husband following work in the booming aerospace industry. Son Mark Douglas was born in Alaska in the Air Force, daughter Rhonda Dianne was born in Denver, and finally Curtis James was born in Anaheim, CA after they had migrated their way out to the west coast where she told her children Ron had convinced her to move after bringing her fresh roses and orange blossoms from business trips in California to Denver in the dead of winter. In 1969 her family left for two years to serve in the mission field in Kingston, Jamaica, returning to Anaheim for several years before moving to beautiful Fillmore, CA, in 1975. Dorothy and Ron where constantly going, and loved to travel and share the world all around them, both local and distant, with their children. She loved Ron and her children deeply, and would later say “I’d follow that man anywhere in this world!”
Known as “Dot” by her close family and friends and “Gramma Dot” by her grandchildren, Dorothy loved the Lord, her family and friends, flowers, art, music, singing, traveling, CHOCOLATE, and parties! Her beautiful smile and sunny, spunky disposition lit up a room, and her positive, uplifting spirit-led attitude was an example of Christian living, salt and light, to those she encountered. She was gifted with a natural ease, and even zen-like child-psychology ability that would sometimes amaze those around her, particularly her own children. Serving together with her husband in life, and Christian ministries in the USA, Jamaica, and even down to Columbia and Peru, she served in various Ladies Bible Classes, church events, and Childrens Bible Classes where she cemented her memory as a great teacher that would use chemistry experiments, magic tricks and various memorable instructor demonstrations, finished off by taking her class on a trip to somewhere fun like Magic Mountain or a pool party in her backyard!
Dorothy went to Business College as a young woman, but always had a gift and appreciation for art, and over time became a professional artist who developed a successful architectural rendering business. She learned how to make and decorate professional level cakes and wedding cakes, served as a Girl Scout leader, served Associated Women of Pepperdine (AWP), and set an example of a constantly learning, serving, and continuously growing life. When her own kids grew up, she volunteered to help people read, and became a care taker for two of her own parents and family who became ill, and took art classes at VC.
She taught her children to love God, and to look at the inside of people rather than their outside. A Midwestern girl, she loved basketball, and became a big LA Lakers fan. She had a love and appreciation for paintings, design, sculptor and architecture, museums, history, and Gods natural beauty. She saw and lived in many beautiful places in the world, and touched people wherever she went with her humor and joyful spirit. Later in life she was able to go to Italy and Switzerland, and to see the homelands of her forefathers in the Alps. Overwhelmed by the beauty, she and broke out singing a verse of “How Great Thou Art” on the train, entertaining her family who was with her there. We trust she is, incomprehensively, in an even more beautiful place now.
Dorothy is survived by her children Rhonda (Krizer) and Larry Fisk of Fillmore/Indio, Curtis Krizer of Fillmore, and Mark and Sue Krizer in Alaska, as well as grandchildren Matthew Krizer in California, Rebbeca (Krizer) and Nate Morrison of Richmond, VA, Kerri (Krizer) and Aaron Base in Sacile, Italy, Carli Krizer of Fillmore, Brandon and Holley Fisk of Anchorage, AL, Jonathon Fisk of Fillmore, and Great Grandchildren Alana and Dracen Morrison, and Jonah and Milo Fisk.
A celebration of Dots life will be held at the Fillmore Church of Christ on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019 at 12:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to SOS Childrens Villages (orphans), or the Alzheimers Association. Dorothy will be missed by all she knew her, but encouraged by the joy and positive example she left behind.

Juana Viramontes (1949-2019)

Juana Viramontes was born on May 13, 1949 to Salomon and Eloisa Barajas. On September 1, 2019, she passed away at the age of 70, after being involved in a car accident a few months earlier. She fought hard until the end.
Juana was dedicated to loving and caring for her family. She always put her children first as they were most important to her. She also treasured her six grandchildren and embraced every moment she spent with them. They were her pride and joy.
One of her other passions was tending to her garden. She enjoyed spending time there and watering and trimming her plants.
Juana is survived by her husband, Remberto, son, Beto and daughter, Xochitl (Jovani) Carrillo, grandchildren, Angel, Alejandra, Samantha Viramontes, and Dillan, Delylah, and Diego Carrillo. She is also survived by her siblings, Angel, Maria Elena, Margarita, Pedro, Evaristo, Jose Luis and Ricardo and numerous nieces and nephews.
Juana was preceded in death by her parents Salomon and Eloisa Barajas.
Juana will be greatly missed by her family and friends whom she loved and touched deeply.

Michael Thomas Alamillo (1975-2019)

Michael Thomas Alamillo, otherwise known by all as “T-Bird,” was born on March 18, 1975, in Ventura, California. He was raised in Fillmore California by his beloved parents Thomas Riesgo Alamillo and Melissa Lu Matthews Alamillo. On the evening of August 22, 2019, at the age of 44, T-Bird was surrounded by his family and friends as he spread his wings; one final time, giving heaven an amazing angel. Those who had the pleasure of knowing T-Bird would tell you about his huge heart. T-Bird had the reputation of his father, tough and stubborn, but very passionate about those he loved and what he stood for. Much like his dad, he would take the shirt of his back for someone in need, whether he knew them or not. He was a leader, who marched to the beat of his own drum and was respected for what he stood for. Growing up in a small town where there was divide between the community of “Farm Boys” and “Homies,” T- Bird took what he was taught “treating others as equals,” and with his personality and openness he bridged the gap in the community, bringing all walks of life together for the greater good. T-Bird helped others to see that they were more alike than they were different, and for this he will forever be loved and respected.
While most people never get the chance to figure out their true passion in life, T-Bird knew his love from an early age and chose a career as a Heavy Equipment Operator. He literally knew his way around every tractor he operated. T-Bird always strived to live his life to the fullest. Like his dad, his favorite saying was “thank you Lord for this beautiful day.” He was quite the outdoorsmen, who loved the freedom of the open road, especially on his Harley, “Old Green.” He was an avid hunter, known for his exceptional luck in trout and bass fishing. He was also very competitive when it came to playing horseshoes, shooting pool, and trap shooting, “aiming” to be the best. But of course, we all know, his true calling was singing. T-Bird had a tune for everyone, and every occasion. Whether it was country or hip-hop, when he sang, you felt it to the core.
Even when cancer wore down his body and exhausted his strength, T-Bird would not let it break his spirits. In his competitive nature, he took everything cancer could throw at him and smiled right back in its face. In his fight, he took pain that would have taken down even the toughest of people, continuing to find the necessary energy to face his treatments. His illness could not steal his level of popularity and it could not steal his peace. No one could ever say that he lost his battle with cancer, as it never stood a chance. All the way to his last breath, what was seen was – peace. While T-Bird will be dearly missed, he will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace T-Bird.
T-Bird was preceded in death by his father Thomas Riesgo Alamillo and leaves behind his mother Melissa Lu Matthews Alamillo; siblings Dennis (wife Agnes) Alamillo, Lesley Alamillo, Rachel Alamillo (Cuñao) Larry Tepezano, Bill (wife Erica) Alamillo, Peter (wife Rupa) Torres, Timmy (wife Carrie) Alamillo, and Tami (husband Raphael) Venegas. Nephew and Niece’s: Julie, Missy, Richard, Eddie, Christina, Diane, Moneh, Evan, Della, Tommy and numerous cousins and his “brothers from other mothers.”
On October 5, 2019, there will be a celebration of the life of Michael Thomas Alamillo.
Location: Britt Park, 3824 E. Guiberson Road, Piru, CA.
Time: 12:00 - Noon - 1:00 p.m. - Services.
Food and Reception following services.

Jimmy William Dunehew (1942-2019)

Jimmy William Dunehew went to be with the Lord on July, 28th 2019 at the age of 76. Jimmy passed away in Santa Paula, CA with his family by his side.
Jimmy was born in Tuckerman AR, on December 7th 1942. He was the son of Molly and Presley Dunehew. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Loretta (Rangel) Dunehew. Jimmy and Loretta spent most of their life living in Fillmore where they raised their 7 children, and then moved to Santa Paul 5 years ago to retire.
Jimmy was amazing father and husband. He loved to tell stories about his childhood and tell jokes, just to see you smile. He would give you the shirt off his back and the last dollar in his pocket. He will be missed by everyone that knew and loved him.
Jimmy is survived by his wife Loretta Dunehew, his 8 children and his many grandchildren and great grandchildren.
A “Celebration of life” will be held on Saturday, September 28th, 2019 at 2:00pm at Britt Park in Piru, CA, off of Highway 126. A Potluck luncheon will follow.
A GoFundMe account has been set up under Jimmy Dunehew for donations for his final expenses.

Antonio Uvence Garnica (1921-2019)

Our beloved father and grandfather, Antonio Uvence Garnica, passed away on August 26, in Jacona, Michoacan Mexico, surrounded by his family after a short battle with lung cancer. He was 98. Antonio was born in La Ladera, Michoacan sometime in April or May of 1921 and baptized on June 13th, 1921, the feast of St. Anthony. He spent most of his childhood in Atacheo, Michoacan. His father Jesus moved the family back to La Ladera in the 1930’s, where he met his one true love, Maria Elena. In 1943, Antonio signed a contract as a “Bracero” to work in the sugar beet fields of Montana, the cotton fields of Fresno, then finally the orange groves of Pomona. He worked several more contracts in Pomona as a general laborer in the orange packing houses during and after World War II, finally going back to wed his “Elena” in 1948. He spent the next twelve years going back and forth between the US and Mexico and sending money to build the family home in Jacona. He obtained his permanent residency card and emigrated his growing family of seven to Moorpark, CA in 1960. His last two children would be born in the US. From 1960 to 1986, Antonio worked on chicken farms, first tending to hatchlings, then working as a feed mill operator at Egg City until his retirement. He left a lasting legacy of hard work, devotion to his Catholic faith and helping whomever needed his aid. During the last 33 years of his life, Antonio followed a regular schedule of walking to morning mass, walking to the local Mercado to have breakfast, then walking back home. Antonio was preceded in death by his wife of forty-six years, Maria Elena Lopez Mendez, his parents, Jesus Garnica Navarrete and Celerina Uvence, his brothers Guadalupe (wife Rosa Lara) of Mexico City, Enrique (wife Esther Magallón) of Pomona, CA, Jesus (wife Carmen Linares) of Camarillo, CA and his sister, Edubijes (husband Alfonso Arevalo) of La Ladera, Michoacan. He is survived by his sister, Esperanza Garnica Alfaro, 96 years, of La Ladera, Michoacan. He is also survived by his son, Rev. Antonio Garnica of Puebla, Mexico, daughters Maria Elena (husband Juan Alvarado) of Patterson, CA, and Maria Esther (husband Andrew Konczvald) of Ajijic, Mexico, sons Roberto (wife Debra Choate) of Rosamond, CA, Jaime of Palos Verdes, CA, Hugo Samuel (wife Rosa Ibarra) of Tehachepi, CA, Jesus “Jess” of Fillmore, CA, Ricardo “Richard” (wife Lauren Finkel) of Houston, TX, and Juan “John” (wife Beverly Kernen) of Fillmore, CA. In addition, he is survived by grandchildren Juan Alvarado Jr, Diana Alvarado Gonzalez, Roberto Alvarado, Brian Alvarado, Antonio “Tony” Garnica, Teresa Garnica, Tomas Garnica, Jaime Garnica Jr., Adam Garnica, Guadalupe Garnica Roque, Hugo Samuel Garnica, Ismael Garnica, Ricardo Garnica, Angel Garnica, Jesus Garnica, Nathan Garnica, Natalie Garnica, Laura Garnica, Grace Garnica, and numerous great-grandchildren.

Arthur Enamace Munoz (1944-2019)

Arthur (Art) E. Munoz passed away peacefully in the early morning of July 3, 2019 at home in Gardnerville, Nevada. Art was born February 22, 1944 in Fillmore, California to Enamace (Mecho) Munoz and Evelyn (Morales) Munoz.
Art attended schools in Fillmore and graduated from Fillmore High School in 1962.
In 1963, Art and Marilyn Southwick were married and soon welcomed the arrival of Scott, Mark, Leslie, Melanie, and Jacob. In the summer of 1977, without a specific destination in mind, the family moved to Hamilton, Montana where Joshua was born.
In 1985 most of the family moved to Gardnerville, Nevada. Art and Marilyn separated after many years and then he met Kim Scott with Jamie and Chris being added to the family.
Art was a people-person and made friends everywhere he went. His many vocations included Postman; Deputy Sheriff in both Ventura County, California and Ravalli County, Nevada and also worked as a security officer. Pursuing his love of the western life, Art learned to be a farmer, and a backcountry guide and outfitter. Some of his favorite memories were to go out with his dad and care for horses. Art enjoyed hunting with his family; John Wayne movies; Louis Amour books and everything that concerned the old west. He was most at home on the back of a horse or going out on 4x4 runs in his Jeep.
Art was a mountain man born a century too soon.
Art's other great pleasures was watching over his many grandchildren and great- grandchildren. He had a way of making each one of them feel special as they indeed are.
Art was preceded in death by his parents, Enamace and Evelyn Munoz and his beloved grandson, Brandon. He is survived by his fiancé, Kim, all of his children and their spouses, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
There will be a memorial service on Friday, September 13 at 11:00 a.m. at Bardsdale Cemetery, 1698 S. Sespe Street, Fillmore, CA. Family, friends and former coworkers are invited to attend.
Art taught us all well and we are the better for it.

Henry Vasquez Ramirez (1933-2019)

Henry Vasquez Ramirez, aged 86, a former long-term resident of Fillmore, died peacefully in his sleep on August 23, 2019, while in the care of Sally’s Residential Care Home in Camarillo. Sally’s and Livingston Memorial tirelessly and lovingly cared for Henry in his final months.
Henry grew up in Rancho Sespe and graduated from Fillmore High School in 1951. While in school he was active in sports and played in a band that was often the entertainment at school dances. After high school he joined the Navy from 1952-1956, and during the Korean Conflict spent time on destroyers, aircraft carriers, and mine sweepers as a Machinist Mate 2nd class. Once his military service was complete, he returned to Fillmore where he worked various jobs, most notably as a bus driver for the Fillmore Unified School District. Anyone who rode the bus knew Henry. He drove for field trips, sports activities, and band competitions as well as maintaining a regular school route taking kids to and from school. He was also a staple at Briggs Hardware, where his coffee cup was among the dozens hanging on a rack in the back. He served the community as a volunteer fireman, rising to the rank of Captain, was active in the Fillmore Methodist Church, the Food Share program, and was a founding member of the Fillmore Citizen’s Patrol. He was a Scout leader for Troop 406 long after his sons aged out, and a member of the Fillmore High School Boosters Club. His recipe for the Booster Club garlic bread has become famous.
All his life Henry loved keeping his cars in tip top shape and was a member of the Corvair Club of Ventura County. He was meticulous in his home landscaping and yard upkeep. His love of barbecuing gave way to his love of camping, as his campers grew over time from a small 2-wheel trailer to a 30-foot motorhome.
Henry was devoted to Ramona, his wife of 61 years, until her death in February 2019. Henry was preceded in death by his parents, Pablo and Guadalupe, and siblings Carmen Davis, Raul, Esther Robles, Paul, and Raymond.
Henry is survived by his children Greg (Shaune), Leticia (Mike) Bradley, and Mike (Kathy) Berg; grandchildren Taylor, Hayley, and Jonathan; siblings Rachel Calzada, Arthur, Tommy, Linda Venegas, Gilbert and Anita Limon, and a large extended family.
Mass will be celebrated Monday, September 16 at Sacred Heart Church in Ventura, at 10:30, followed by interment at Bardsdale cemetery.
Because of Henry’s commitment to the City of Fillmore and Fillmore High School, in lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation in Henry’s name to the Fillmore High Alumni Scholarship Fund, 559 Sespe Ave, Fillmore, CA 93015 www.fillmorehighalumni.com

Juan Manuel “Mono” Negrete (1975-2019)

Juan Manuel “Mono” Negrete, age 44, of Fillmore passed away peacefully on September 2, 2019.
He was born April 11, 1975 in Santa Paula, California to Elena and Jose Negrete. He was the youngest of 7 siblings Arnoldo, Jorge, Jose Luis, Francisco, Julio and Patricia. He married April Perez on May 11, 1996 and had 4 children David, Janessa, Jazzmin and Danielle. He is also survived by his grandchildren Saylor Marie, Jayden Anthony and an extended family.
Services will be held Wednesday September 18th, 2019 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church 1048 W. Ventura St., Fillmore, CA at 9am to be followed by his burial at Bardsdale Cemetery.

Constance D. “Connie” Taylor (2019)

On August 20, 2019, the Lord summoned Constance D. “Connie” Taylor, loving Mother, Wife, Grandmother, and Great Grandmother into His arms. She passed away surrounded by family in anticipation of reuniting with the love of her life, M.G. “Mert” Taylor.
Connie was born in Glendale, California. She is preceded in death by her husband Mert Taylor, her parents Joseph and Natalie Costanzo, brothers John (age 2 ½), Pete, Tom, Sal, a sister (deceased at birth) and nephew John Costanzo.
Growing up in Glendale, Connie attended Incarnation Catholic School and Hoover High School where she received Girls Athletic Association awards for three years. She worked for Glendale Revenue and Accounting while waiting for an assignment with the FBI, however, that changed when her father passed away two days after her High School graduation. After her father’s passing, Connie had to go to work to help her Mother. She completed Sherwood Music School and taught piano. Connie and Mert were soon married and began a blessed sixty-three-year union.
Mert’s work brought them to Fillmore. When work finished, it was time to relocate. They decided to stay in Fillmore to start their own business, “M.G. Taylor Equipment” in 1961.
Connie and Mert were truly a team. Mert would take care of the fieldwork and Connie took care of the bookwork while raising four children. The business prospered and is still thriving today.
Those that knew Connie would agree that she was a force of nature. Her enthusiasm and energy were contagious as well as compelling. She instilled honesty, integrity, perseverance, and enduring Catholic principles to her children. Connie had a tremendous passion and love for her church. She was a member of Altar and Rosary Society, Los Padrinos Club and taught Catechism at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. She was also a member of the Grange Club.
She is survived by her son, Greg Taylor of Fillmore; daughters, Natalie (Don Tello) of Fillmore, Cynthia (Tom Wise) of Bakersfield, and Rita Taylor of Fillmore; grandchildren, Tom Jr. (Chantel), John and Ceresse Wise, Brooke, Jannelle and Grant Taylor; great grandchildren, Tom III and Taylor Wise; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Connie was the kindest, loving and compassionate person you would ever meet. She opened her heart and home to many over the years. She will be sorely missed. Connie will be remembered for her love of family and friends and family vacations. She loved to cook and bake. Connie mastered many of her mother’s recipes that were carried down for generations.
Special thanks to Ventura Oncology and staff, Dr. Chirag Delsania, Janet with Livingston Memorial and caregivers Maria, Minerva, and Carmen for treating our mother with excellent care.
Rosary services will be on Thursday, September 5, 2019, 7:00 PM, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 1048 W. Ventura St., Fillmore. Funeral Mass will also be held at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church on Friday, September 6, 2019, at 10:00 AM. Private graveside services will follow immediately after the Mass at Bardsdale Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Connie’s name to St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church or to the charity of your choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Ted Mayr Funeral Home, 3150 Loma Vista Road, Ventura. Condolences may be sent to www.TedMayrFuneralHome.com

Laura Elizabeth “Betty” (Cobb) Simpkin (1924-2019)

Laura Elizabeth “Betty” (Cobb) Simpkins 95, beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother and aunt died on August 10, 2019. She was born on August 7, 1924 in Los Angeles, California to Milo and Laura (Taylor) Cobb. She grew up in Fillmore, California. While attending junior college in Phoenix, she met her future husband, James (Jim) Simpkins. She continued her education at the University of California Berkeley. She married Jim in 1944, and followed him across country as he served in the Navy. After settling in San Carlos, California, she joined the Community Congregational Church. She became a Sunday School teacher and joined several women’s clubs. In the mid-60s, she was the supervisor in the development lab at Raychem Corporation, a job that she loved. She moved to Plainfield, Illinois in 1970 with her husband and three youngest children, and then to Goddard, Kansas in 1974, where she resided until her passing. She made many wonderful friends from the Goddard United Methodist Church, UMW, and the Goddard Woman’s Club. She loved to travel throughout the Country and overseas. She enjoyed Bridge, games with her family, genealogy, bowling, and square dancing. She was a friend to all. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister and brother-in-law Priscilla and Gene Baker, her brother-in-law Glen Phillips, her brother-in-law and sister-in-law Harvey and Patricia Simpkins, her daughter-in-law Charlotte (Haller) Simpkins, son-in-law Darrell Pauls, and nephew Edward Simpkins. Surviving are her sister Harriet Fremlin, her sons Dana (Nancy) and Milo (Julia) and her daughters Lorrie Gafford, Gwen Paige, Judy Pauls, Elizabeth (Terry) Brickman and Jamie (Les) Adkins. Also survived by 20 grandchildren and 48 great-grandchildren and a league of nieces and nephews. The memorial service will be at the Goddard United Methodist Church on Tuesday, August 20 at 11 a.m. Graveside service will follow at Resthaven Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to Goddard United Methodist Church or Phoenix Hospice. Condolences may be offered at www. Resthavenmortuary-cemetary.com

Richard Allen Valois Shaw (1942-2019)

Richard Shaw, 76, of Fillmore, California went to be with the Lord on August 8, 2019. He was born December 26, 1942, in Glendale, California. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in History from San Fernando Valley State College in 1966, and attended the Oriental Institute at the University of Chicago where he studied Anthropology. It was there that he met his future wife, Laura. He married Laura Ann Gade on July 7, 1968 at Buck Creek St. John’s Lutheran Church in rural Iowa. They were married 51 years and raised three daughters together.
In their married life together, Richard and Laura lived in California, where Jennifer was born, Wisconsin, and Iowa, where Stephanie and Alisa were born, before moving to Fillmore, CA in 1977.
Richard grew up in the Los Angeles area. As a child, he was drawn to creative writing, intellectual pursuits, and the Christian faith. At the age of twelve, as he was asking God where to attend church, he fell off the bicycle he was riding in front of a Methodist church, a pivotal moment in his lifelong participation in the Christian community.
Richard described himself as a ‘Luther-Costal’ who attended a Methodist Church. He contributed his leadership and scholarship to many church ministries. At the Assembly of God Pentecostal Church in Fillmore, CA, he taught adult Sunday School, served on the Board of Deacons, and occasionally acted in the children’s choir pageants directed by his wife Laura. He taught adult Sunday School, and he and his wife Laura taught the Bethel Bible Study series at Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, CA. He served on the Board of Trustees at Bardsdale United Methodist Church in Fillmore, CA. He was a deeply spiritual man who took joy is sharing his faith in Christ with his family and friends.
Richard used his talent for writing throughout his professional career, and worked primarily with social services. In Wisconsin, Richard and Laura developed a Hotline for Help program for people in need. In Iowa, Richard developed a drug counseling and rehabilitation program called The Joint. In California, he was the Deputy Executive Director for ASSERT, where he managed low income energy programs, and served as a consultant for Reliable Energy in the same capacity. He received a Congressional Award for his work in social service programs, and several awards for his work with the Association of Southern California Energy Providers.
He is survived by his wife, Laura Shaw of Fillmore, CA, his three daughters: the Reverend Jennifer Shaw of Palm Desert, CA, Stephanie (Ms. Thomas Anderson) of Moorpark, CA, and Alisa (Ms. David Mitchell) of Fillmore, CA, and six grandchildren: Todd Covey and Robert Anderson, and Max, Michael, Grace, and Ann Mitchell.
His Celebration of Life will be held at Bardsdale United Methodist Church (1498 Bardsdale Ave, Fillmore, CA 93015) on Saturday, September 14 at 11 am, with a lunch reception to follow.