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.

Jaime Urrea (1974-2019)

Jaime Urrea 45 of Pueblo, Colorado passed away on July 18, 2019 at Parkview Medical Center after a brief illness.
Born March 28, 1974 and raised in Fillmore, California. He graduated in 1992 and enlisted in the U.S. Army shortly after. Honorably serving abroad and later stationed at Fort Carson Colorado where he met and married his former wife and best friend Dianna Lucero Urrea.
After the Army they moved to Pueblo and started a life together. There he went back to school and began a new career as a correctional officer for the Colorado Dept. of Corrections. He worked at the Arkansas Valley Penitentiary a few years, before transferring to the Youth Offenders System Y.O.S. which he found very challenging.
Jaime was kind hearted, calm and reliable which made him a perfect fit for Y.O.S. and which also made him a lifelong friend to all he met.
Jaime is survived by his parents Jose and Norma Urrea; brothers Joey (Araceli) and Jorge Urrea; nephew Andre (Rachelle); niece Alyss; great- niece Mila also many family and friends.
A celebration of his life will be held August 24th at 11am at Funeraria Del Angel Fillmore, 600 N. Central Ave., Fillmore, followed by a reception at Veteran’s Memorial Building, 511 Second St., Fillmore.

Helen Morris Caldwell (1927-2019)

Helen Caldwell died peacefully in her home, surrounded by loved ones on May 9 at the age of 92. She is survived by her five children with her first husband, William L. Morris, Jr: Christine Morris Bacon, John Morris, Jeff Morris, Virginia Morris and Kathleen Morris Frachon. She was lovingly known as “Honey” to her 13 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. She was devoted to her family and friends. She experienced tragedy during her childhood and dedicated her time and talents to protecting vulnerable children.
Born Helen Ann Murphy in Chicago, Illinois, to Sylvester Rosecrans Murphy and Helen Drees Murphy, Helen was the second of their two children. Her father died when she was an infant and her mother died when she was 15.After her father’s death, her mother moved the family to La Mesa, California. Her mother remarried and had two sons, Buel and Stephen Dunham. Helen is survived by her half-brother Stephen.
Helen Caldwell graduated from Grossmont High School, Occidental College with a Bachelors Degree in speech and English, and received her Teaching Credential from Cal Lutheran University. She was an accomplished dancer and majorette in high school. While in college, she began her lifelong commitment to public service by sending care packages to soldiers during WWII and participating in the first March of Dimes fundraising drive held on the Occidental campus.
She raised her family and spent most of her life in Fillmore, California. As a long-time resident of Ventura Country, her community activities included: Charter Board member of Ventura County Symphony Association; President Women’s Symphony League; Charter member and President Santa Clara Valley Hospice; Las Patronas; Secretary Ventura County Grand Jury; Planned Parenthood Board; Santa Paula Hospital Foundation Board; Santa Paula Theater Center Board; Women’s Legacy Fund/Ventura County Community Foundation; Board Member, Medical Resource Foundation, Ventura County Medical Center; and member of the Board of Governors of the Tower Club.
Children were a priority in her life. She devoted her life to raising her own five children and taught geography at Fillmore Junior High School. She was committed to protecting vulnerable children. She worked with Youth Connection to provide glasses, clothes orthodontia and other essentials to children in foster care. Her work with Youth Connection led to the creation of a residential care facility or sanctuary for children placed in protective custody because of abuse, neglect or abandonment known as Casa Pacific in Camarillo. She was part of the core founding group in 1987 and supervised the feasibility study for the 22-acre Casa Pacific that opened in 1994. She was a member of the Board of Directors, chaired its fundraising committee, served on its planning board and was instrumental in getting the facility built. Helen and her second husband, Charles Morris Caldwell, were major benefactors and provided the funding to build a cottage for boys known as the Caldwell Cottage at Casa Pacifica. She was named a Guardian Angel for the significant role she played at Casa Pacific. She supported the Child Abuse and Neglect Thrift Store (C.A.A.N.) in Ventura, a division of Interface Children and Family Services which seeks to prevent, interrupt and end the cycle of family violence. She was also a member of the national board of Court Appointed Special Advocates Association (CASA), which helps abused children through the legal process. Her many honors included volunteer of the year. She was honored for her significant contribution to society as a “Woman of Distinction” by the Girl Scouts for her work in “The World of People.”
Helen Caldwell treasured the gift of life and lived each day to the fullest. She enjoyed travelling and visited more than 50 countries. She also enjoyed theatre, art museums, music, literature, hiking, tennis and gardening, including a rose garden with 150 rose bushes.
Helen Caldwell was a very strong person. Every decision she made in her life was her own. Her strength, energy and enjoyment of life inspired those who knew her. Her generosity and unconditional love impacted the lives of many. Her memory will live on in our hearts.
Donations may be made on her behalf to Casa Pacifica.

Emma Rachel Rodriguez-Magana (1951-2019)

Emma Rachel Rodriguez-Magana beloved wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and great aunt passed away on July 28th, 2019.
Emma was born on June 13th, 1951 to Jesus and Mary Rodriguez of Fillmore, Ca. The middle of three siblings, sisters Mary and Jennie.
Emma was born, raised and passed away in the same home in Fillmore, Ca. She met her future husband Alfredo C. Magana in Fillmore as well. They married on April 17, 1980. They were married for four years until his passing on January 21st, 1984.
She was a devoted wife, mother, friend and "Tia Emma" who was always involved in the lives of her two sons, two grand-daughters, nieces and nephews. As a mother/grandma/aunt/friend she was caring, loving, nurturing, loyal and was gifted with a great sense of humor. "She was the perfect example of a mother, aunt, grandmother and friend. A person you sought comfort in, during any crisis in your life."
Emma loved to share life experiences with her friends and family. She always had a story and countless memories to share that would end up in fits of laughter. She had many hobbies from reading her Reader's Digest, National Geographic, People's magazine and many other publications that came daily to her home. She also collected little trinkets and figurines which she would display all throughout her home.
Her passions were shopping, watching TV, washing clothes at the laundromat, cruising (which was really the long way home), non- stop cleaning (probably an addiction), cooking, listening to her music, her bling-bling (jewelry), her current vehicle at any time(which was always kept pristine, by the way) and most especially her two sons.
She loved and cared for all her nieces, nephews, and all who needed her whether it be making you a sandwich, cereal with milk or something cold/hot to drink, to giving you a ride to school or home. She took pride in giving to all those she loved.
Emma loved all unconditionally and reminded us the importance of living in the moment and to enjoy every minute you have with family and friends.
Emma is survived by her two sons Ernesto Magana and Patricio Magana and their loves Alicia and Olivia; two beautiful grand-daughters Delilah and Kayla; two sisters Mary D. and Jennie R.; many nieces and nephews and her faithful four legged friend Roxie who adored Emma.
A celebration and memorial will be held at Funeraria del Angel Mortuary 600 N. Central Ave. Fillmore, CA. Viewing will be from 9:00am -9:00pm Thursday, August 22, 2019. Rosary will be recited at 7pm. Funeral mass will be held at St. Francis of Assisi church on Friday, August 23, 2019 at 10:00am followed by graveside service at Bardsdale cemetery Fillmore, CA at 11:00am.
To share a memory, picture and for further details and directions please go to dignitymemorial.com/EmmaRachelRodriguez-Magana

Faye Ables (1931-2019)

Faye Ables daughter of John Rickman and Dora McCaflerty born in Fillmore, California on October 18, 1931. Faye married RW Ables July 5, 19 45 when she was 14 years old. She lived in Fillmore for 71 years before moving to Tehachapi, California. They raised their two boys, John and Wayne Ables and worked in Fillmore as a telephone operator and the job she loved, working for the Fillmore School District in the cafeteria. She retired from Fillmore High School as a cafeteria manager. She loved the children she served. Most will remember her delicious cinnamon rolls and giant cookies made from scratch, She never let a child go hungry, whether they couldn't afford or just forgot their lunch money, she made sure they always had plenty of good old fashion home cooking. Faye worked for the school district for 37 years.
She loved her daughter in laws, Terri Ables and Denise Ables, grandchildren, Shannon Flack, Julie Kingsbury, Mellissa Avizu, and Lindsey Milsap, and as most proud of the accomplishments of her great grandchildren, Cameron Ables and MacKennzee Flack, Truxton and Taitlyn Kingsbury, Adrian, Juan Jr, and Adelina Avizu and Haley and Dakota Milsap.
Faye was a loving, always supportive and active mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She loved to serve others.
She will be missed but not forgotten, as we know she has gone to be with the Lord on July 31, 2019.
Her siblings proceeded her in death, Buck Rickman, Ruth Loustaunau, Pat Reynolds, and Betty Martin. Survived by her loving and always caring partner, Gary Chamblin.
Memorial will be at Christian Life Assembly in Tehachapi, Wednesday, August 7th at 11:00am reception following.

Irene Claire Morris (1929-2019)

Irene Claire Morris, a longtime resident of Fillmore, California, peacefully went home to glory on August 3, 2019 in Bakersfield, California.
Born on October 8, 1929 in Eagle Michigan, Irene and her twin sister, Jean, were the youngest of eight children of John and Eda Pitchford.
After pursuing a career in licensed vocational nursing, Irene relocated to California and continued her education, earning her license as a registered nurse in 1976; she did this while raising her four children Rebecca, David, Mariannne, and Steve.
Irene married Paul Morris in 1980 and was married for 24 years while residing in Fillmore, California. Together, Irene and Paul maintained citrus orchards as growers for various companies like Sunkist and Grimmway Farms.
Irene was an avid reader, and enjoyed storytelling, cooking, and going on adventures, be it traveling to a new country or just in her own backyard. She was a devoted member of Bardsdale United Methodist Church and was part of their hand bell choir for many years. Irene also supported Walk to Emmaus through the church, and the local chapter of The Lions Club.
Irene is survived by her children: Rebecca Costa (Joe), David Cook, Marianne Carlsen (Sean), and Steve Cook (Christie), her grandchildren: Darren Smith (Jen), Kenny Smith (Amber), Cheryl Van Hoosen (Jamie), Jennifer Sorkin (James), Kaitlin Morris (Mack), Stephanie Burns, and Brian Cook, and her many wonderful great grandchildren. She is also survived by her extended family: Robert Morris (Patricia), Carol Stearns (Phil), their children: Tonya Morris (Rock), Sean Morris (Veronica), Jim Heissenbuttel (Amy), and Bill Heissenbuttel (Maya), and their children.
Internment will on Friday August 9, 2019 at 11:00 am at The Bardsdale Cemetery in Fillmore California. A celebration of Irene's life will then be held on Saturday August 10, 2019 at 5:00 pm at Bardsdale United Methodist Church in Fillmore California. Please wear your favorite color for both services as we celebrate Irene’s life. Any memorial contributions may be sent to The Bardsdale United Methodist Church in honor of Irene.
Irene will be greatly missed by the friends and family who loved her; however, they take comfort in knowing she is with her savior Jesus Christ.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27

Ralph Villalobos (1963-2019)

Ralph Villalobos age 55 passed away peacefully with family by his side on Wednesday, July 17th at a hospital in Tucson, Arizona. Ralph was a devoted father, grandfather, uncle and companion. His presence will be sorely missed in all of our lives.
Ralph was born on June 22nd, 1963 to Julia Hernandez and Raul Villalobos. He was a 1983 graduate of Fillmore High School where he was a valuable member of both the Track and Cross-Country teams. During Ralph’s tenure, he set and held the boys Frosh-Sophomore mile record for over 30 years.
Ralph was a free and loving spirit. After his graduation, he enjoyed a lengthy career as a long-distance truck driver, allowing him to travel the United States while also providing for his family.
His grandkids, nieces, and nephews adored his vibrant personality, enjoying his funny voices and unique characters. He was a jokester at heart and made everyone smile.
Ralph was the life of the party as he was always the first to arrive and the last to leave. He treasured the time he spent with his family and friends. He loved to cook Italian food, and often you would find him preparing lasagna from scratch for those he loved. Ralph was a die-hard LA Dodgers, LA Rams, and LA Lakers fan and was always ready to enjoy a game at the stadium or at home while barbecuing.
Ralph is survived by his sons Joseph Villalobos, Mathew Villalobos, Justin Villalobos, and his daughter Kelly Villalobos as well as his grandchildren Jarell and Dontae. Ralph is also survived by his brothers and sisters, Linda Escoto, Ray Tafoya, Julie Arroyo, Pauline Villasenor, Sandra Careno, Debbie Davalos, Suzette Carrillo, Lori Luna, Chris Clark, and Shannon Campos.
He is preceded in death by his Mom, Julia Ramirez, and dad, Raul Villalobos, and brother, Tony Tafoya. He was blessed with a large family and leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, cousins and aunts and uncles.
Those whose life Ralph touched are invited to the share in the celebration of his life on Saturday, August 10th at the Fillmore Senior Center located on 533 Santa Clara St. Fillmore, CA 93015 from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

Ruth Evelyn Crawford (1921-2019)

Ruth Evelyn Crawford passed away at her home on Saturday, June 15th 2019 at 11:15 pm peacefully in the presence of family and friends.
Born March 25th 1921 to John and Mary Armstrong in Fillmore, California on the Calumet. Ruth attended Fillmore High, married Ralph Crawford in 1937 and had one child, Joanna.
She was a lifelong resident of Fillmore and was married for 49 years until Ralph proceeded her in Death in 1986.
Ruth’s maiden name, (Armstrong) containing the syllable “strong” was the perfect representation of her character. Ruth was straightforward and spoke her mind, irrespective of what others thought (and was often right). She loved cooking, taking care of her family, including her pets, gardening, grandchildren, and on occasion going to church to atone for what she would call “self-acknowledged sins.”
Ruth’s family transcended generations. She was incredibly proud of her family, always displaying cards and pictures from family and friends. Her neighbors also saw her as family and anyone who happened to enter her open door felt as if they had another grandmother or good friend. She kept up with the news and was more ‘modern’ and ‘progressive’ than any other octogenarian on the block. She always read the paper, followed the latest fashions and never lost touch with neighbors who moved off to other areas of the country. Her extended family went far and wide, and when they returned back to “grandma Ruth’s ,“ they could always count on finding baked goods, fresh flowers, basil, rosemary, mint from her garden with a few crass jokes included.
The Family would like to give special thanks to her care givers.
Dr. Gary Deutsch for his personal care and devotion to Ruth. Also expressing gratitude for the warmth and care provided by her neighbors, friends and especially the individual home care providers, Gerlinde, Candy, Toni, and Betty, as well as assisted Hospice Nurse, Shari. We will always remember and appreciate the care given by all of you.
Ruth, aka Toots, is survived by her Daughter Joanna Berry and Son in law Dan Berry. Grandkids Jim Bottomley, Jan Bottomley, Julie (Ron) Mazziotti. A Beloved Great Grandmother to Brooke Enge, Gween Root, Jon Haeber, Erik Haeber, Kelsie Towner. And an Amazing Great Great to Ryan Enge, Jenna Enge, Erika Sherman, Taylor Enge, Aria Haeber and Teagan Towner.
Family and Friends are invited to attend a celebration of life on Friday, July 19th at 1:00 pm at Skillin Mortuary 600 Central Ave, Fillmore, Ca 93015.
Donations in her memory can go to The Humane Society of Ventura County or The American Cancer Society.

Jean Baehr (1929-2019)

Jean Baehr, formerly of Fillmore, passed peacefully on July 1, 2019 after suffering a stroke one week earlier, surrounded by her daughters Jan and Michelle. Born April 1, 1929 in Vermont, she moved to California in 1955 with her husband Harold and 2 daughters. She eventually moved to Newhall and then Santa Paula. After retirement she married teacher Herb Baehr of Fillmore. She was always very active in church and loved travel. She recently celebrated her 90th birthday party. She frequently visited family in Vermont. She is preceded in death by her ex-husband Harold, her husband Herb, and brother Bobby. She is succeeded by her daughters Jan and Michelle, and loving grandkids and great-grandkids. Her smile and love of travel and food will be missed. She will be memorialized with a family get -together in Vermont this summer.

Loren “Chub” Everett Bowers (1931-2019)

Loren Everett Bowers, 87, of Fillmore, California passed away peacefully at his home following a brief illness. He ascended to heaven and Jesus’ embrace while cradled in the arms of his beloved wife Mabel “Tobey” Bowers. They were married October 26, 1952, 66 years ago.
Chub was born to Winn and Helen Bowers of Waterloo, Indiana. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings Leon, Lyle, Alan, and Virginia and his oldest grandson, Kevin. Chub is survived by his wife Tobey, 4 children: Tami (Gary), Terri, Todd, Tracy (Debbie), 12 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.
Chub attended a 1-room school house until high school, where he excelled in basketball, track, and drama. He went home with a school friend one day and met Mabel. He was head over heels and called her Tobey because “One day,” he said, she was going “to-be” his wife.
Chub was a Sergeant in the Army, he deployed to Korea in 1952 and served as a truck and tank mechanic. He and Tobey honeymooned in Michigan then took 6-weeks to drive cross-country and stay in San Francisco before he boarded the USS Pope transport ship. Following the war, he was top salesman for Steel-Co Pots and Pans, then test drove trucks for International Harvester in Fort Wayne, Indiana where all four children were born.
In 1964 a son’s ill-health required them to move to warmer climate. They knew one person in Sylmar, California so that is where they headed via Route 66 with a station wagon, travel-trailer, $300 and four little children. In Sylmar, Chub worked as a mechanic for Bellon Construction, then obtained his own license and started Bowers Concrete Construction Company. He specialized in storm drain and manhole work creating the rainwater and sewer management infrastructure for much of Southern California. He was well known and well respected; always fair, honest and timely in his business dealings. The work of others was sometimes torn out so that Chub could come in and do it right. Entire projects were sometimes delayed just to get on his schedule.
In 1978 they purchased the “Big Yellow House on the Hill” east of Fillmore, California. Chub, and Tobey made repairs until 1979, then moved in and the rest is history. It was a glorious era of family gatherings, philanthropy, entertaining, and being “home base.” BBQ’s, luau’s, weddings, and birthdays were always on the agenda. He and Tobey cherished their life-long friendships, enjoyed cruises, and even drove their motorhome to the end of the Alaska Highway.
Every grandchild learned to drive a golf cart, ride in the bucket of the tractor and explore the far edges of the property behind the lake. Chub made homemade ice cream in his 50-gallon machine to serve at community events in Fillmore’s park.
He belonged to the Fillmore Men’s Club, and Fillmore Women’s Service Club has set up a scholarship in his name. He had coffee most mornings for 20 years with Joe Voelker at Ag-Rx. He also loved spending time at Pat Askren’s car shop, swapping stories and catching up on the day’s events.
Chub was a tinker, inventor, a poet and song-writer. He wrote love songs to Tobey and poems for his family. He was never without a kind word, sorry old joke, and a good story. He could tell a story!
A Memorial Service to honor Chub’s life will be held on July 13, 2019, 11am at Faith Community Church, 355 D Street, Fillmore. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to Faith Community Church or to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Anthony Neil Collins (1955-2019)

On May 25th 2019 Anthony Neil Collins passed after a 1 ½ yearlong battle with prostate cancer. Anthony (Andy) Collins was born October 10th 1955 in Santa Paula, CA and was a lifelong resident of Fillmore. He attended Fillmore High School where he met his partner, soulmate and love of his life Mary Ann Whisnant Collins. He spent his lifetime working in the oil production industry from drilling new production wells to managing and maintaining oil production leases. Andy enjoyed riding motorcycles, operating off road vehicles, mechanics, customizing firearms, crafting parts and custom tools with his CNC machines, the outdoors and most of all spending time with his close friends and family. He was an avid fan of NASCAR, PBR and also an active member of the NRA. Andy has joined his mother Anita Beeler Nunez and father Arthur Collins in eternal life. He is survived by his wife Mary, brother Jeff (Paula), sister Jeanie (Richard), son Rodney (Renae), daughter Tracy (Andrew), and grandchildren Michael, Hayley, Madison, and Taylor.
Family and friends will gather for a Celebration of Life Service at Faith Community Church, 355 D St. Fillmore on Saturday, June 15th at 10:00 am. A reception will immediately follow at Britt Park, 3824 Guiberson Rd, Piru.
For map and directions to the ceremony location and to sign the family's online guest book, share stories and post pictures please visit our website: www.santapaulafuneralhome.com and click on Anthony’s name located below "Recent Obituaries".
Funeral Arrangements are under the direction of the Family Owned & Operated ROBERT REY GARCIA JR FUNERAL SERVICES, Santa Paula, CA. 805.229.7054

Jose Luis Lopez Martinez (1951-2019)

Jose Luis Lopez Martinez was born on October 28, 1951 in Agua de Obispo, Mexico. The ranch was located between San Juan De Los Lagos and Lagos de Moreno. He was one of ten children and an identical twin. In 1967 Jose moved to Fillmore, CA and met the love of his life Antonia Avila. Jose and Antonia were married on August 31, 1974. They had four children followed by six grandchildren. He took great pride in his grandchildren and all of their athletic accomplishments. Jose looked forward to watching his grandson's baseball and football games. He most of all looked forward to his granddaughter's annual cheerleading competitions in Las Vegas.
Jose was known around town as "cuate" along with his twin brother Pancho. Many people knew him for the love he had for his cars, especially his 1969 Red Shelby Cobra. Everyone knew Jose for his colorful vocabulary and sense of humor. He always liked to reminisce about his days at the ranch and all the mischief he would get into with his siblings. As a teenager, he loved heading to central avenue for his po' boy sandwiches at the local pool hall. Jose's favorite pastime throughout his life in Fillmore were weekend drives around town, through Kenny's Grove Park, the Ventura Beach and Lake Piru. He loved having all of his children and grandchildren together. Jose took joy in giving red roses to his loved ones in celebration of special events. Jose peacefully passed away on June 4, 2019 surrounded by his loving family as he wished.
He was preceded in death by his Parents: Mario and Juanita; Son: Jos0e Luis Jr.; Sisters: Hortencia Vasques and Enedina Lopez; Brother: Genaro Lopez.
Jose is survived by his wife of 44 years, Antonia Lopez; 3 Daughters: Angel Lopez; Monica Lopez and Alyssa Ruiz. Sisters: Amelia Romo; Graciela Elizondo (husband Kiko); Angelica Gonzales (husband Efrain); Martha Barajas (husband Alejandro). Brothers: Enrique Lopez (wife Didi); Francisco Lopez (wife Blanca).
A rosary will be recited at 7:00pm on Thursday, June 20th, 2019 at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 1048 West Ventura Street in Fillmore, California. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00am on Friday, June 21st, 2019 at St. Francis Of Assisi Church in Fillmore, California. Interment to follow at Bardsdale Cemetery, 1698 South Sespe Street in Fillmore, California.
For map and directions to the ceremony location and to sign the family's online guest book, share stories and post pictures please visit our website: www.santapaulafuneralhome.com and click on Jose's name located below "Recent Obituaries".
Funeral Arrangements are under the direction of the Family Owned & Operated ROBERT REY GARCIA JR FUNERAL SERVICES, Santa Paula, CA. 805.229.7054

Laqueta Ann Hicks (1941-2019)

Laqueta Ann Hicks passed away on May 10th, 2019 at the age of 78. Laqueta fought a long hard battle with Multiple Myeloma cancer with her family by her side. She has been called to be with her parents and is no longer in pain, and she is at peace.
She is survived by two sons, three grandchildren and four great grandchildren and her two adored Yorkies.
Laqueta was loved by all and had a love for everyone around her. She will be missed by all.
A “Celebration of life” will be held on June 8th, 2019 at 11am at “Church of Christ”, 219 Mountain View St., Fillmore Ca, off the Highway 126. A Potluck luncheon will follow.
A GoFundMe account has been set up under Laqueta Hicks Celebration of Life for donations for her final expenses.

Wanda Fletcher-Cummings (1937-2018)

On Saturday, September 8, 2018, Wanda Fletcher-Cummings, loving wife, and mother to eight children, was welcomed into Heaven at 81 years of age, due to heart complications.
Wanda was born on June 11, 1937 in Watts, OK to Clinton and Marie (Floyd) Fletcher. While growing up, the family moved back and forth from Oklahoma to California many times. Finally settling in California where Wanda in 1955, graduated from Fillmore High School and married James Cummings.
Over the years Wanda worked at various jobs and finally retired from the Fillmore Convalescent Center, she loved working with all of the patients while in Housekeeping, She was a big Elvis fan and had a collection of memorabilia. In retirement she loved traveling by Greyhound bus to visit her daughters and all the grandkids!
Wanda was preceded in death by her father, Clinton, and mother Marie. Her husband James Cummings and their children: Brenda, Donna, Vickie, Wesley, and little Jamie, son-in-law Steve Bass.
She is survived by Son-In-Law, Gary (Brenda) Cone, of Fillmore, CA, Judy (Steve) Bass of Las Vegas, NV, Eva (Philip) Walston, Calara, OK, Audrey Gonzalez, Durant, OK, and her sister, Debbie Thompson, of Fillmore, CA. She had nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many cousins.
The funeral service will be this Friday, May 31, 2019 at First Baptist Church 1057 First Street at 1:00 p.m.

Jose Q. Cobian (1937-2019)

It is with great pain and sadness that we announce the loss of our beloved father Jose Quiles Cobian who went home to be with our lord with his family by his side. He was born March 8, 1937 in Rancho Los Gonzales, Jalisco, Mexico and passed away peacefully at Ventura County Medical Center on May 14, 2019.
Jose was employed as a field worker for several years upon arriving to the United States. He then moved to Fillmore Ca. and was employed at Robinson & Lamey in Piru Ca. and later worked at Mr. Spa in Newbury Park Ca. Jose then retired from Ventura Pacific as a night watchman. Upon retirement Jose very much enjoyed spending his time at the Fillmore Senior school farm where he met and developed many friendships with other seniors who shared the same interests. He planted and grew many fruits and vegetables that he proudly would share with family, friends, and neighbors. Once his grandkids began attending Fillmore Middle School he proudly volunteered and started the school garden where he planted many vegetables and rose bushes. He began volunteering in 2011 until his unexpected passing.
His favorite hobbies in his earlier years consisted of training horses, deer hunting, and fishing. He also enjoyed working on cars and caring for his home garden and the many birds in his backyard.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife Rosa Maria, his parents Manuel and Aurora Cobian, and his sisters Rosario and Maria Cobian. Jose is survived by his daughter Maria R. Estrada (Michael), sons Jose J. Cobian (Martha) and Arturo Cobian. Jose has 5 beautiful grandchildren, Michael Joseph Estrada Jr., Vanessa Nicole Estrada, Johnny JR. Cobian, Yanelli Marie Cobian, and Natalie Rose Cobian. He is also survived by 6 brothers and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank the trauma team and ICU doctors and nurses that assisted in his care at Ventura County Medical Center. We would like to thank all family and friends that visited during his stay in the ICU.
A rosary will be recited at 9:30a.m. on Friday, May 24, 2019 followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Fillmore. Interment to follow at Bardsdale Cemetery in Fillmore.
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.santapaulafuneralhome.com and click on Jose' name located below "Recent Obituaries".
Funeral Arrangements are under the direction of the Family Owned & Operated ROBERT REY GARCIA JR FUNERAL SERVICES, SANTA PAULA, CA 805.229.7054

Billie McMahan (1935-2019)

Billie McMahan, 84, passed away April 26, 2019 after a short illness in Ventura California.
Billie was born September 16, 1934 in St. Clair County, Alabama to Eve and Grady Griffith. She was the youngest of four children, three girls and one boy.
She married J.R (Junior) McMahan, they raised three children and were blessed with three grandchildren, just this year her sixth great grand child was born.
In 1961 the family moved to Coalinga, California from Ragland Alabama, she was always very busy with a family of three young children during these years. The family moved to Ventura in 1968 and later resided in Fillmore for over thirty years, later in life she moved back to Ventura.
One of her greatest joys in life was her family and especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren who she loved to shower with attention.
In addition to raising her family Billie was very active in her church and with her career in accounting. She always prided herself on being well dressed and a gracious hostess.
Billie is survived by her sister Mary Joe Douglas of Alabama; daughter, Lynne Rayburn (John) of Mission Viejo, California, son, Barry McMahan (Paula), Houston Texas, son, Michael McMahan (David Schwabauer), Moorpark California, three grand-daughters, Kinsie, Heidi and Megan and six great grand-children.
A service will be held May 9, 2019, at 10:30 AM Bardsdale Cemetery, Skillen-Carrol Mortuary, Fillmore, is in charge of the service.
The family wishes to extend their personal thanks to Jean, her care giver of these past six years. She has gone above and beyond in the level of compassion and care she has given to our mother.

Fred Eugene Carpenter, Jr. (1936-2019)

Fred Eugene Carpenter, Jr. joined his father, mother and younger brother, Craig, in heaven on April 27, 2019 at the age of 82. Fred, or Freddie, as some in his family still call him, was born on September 19, 1936 to Fred, Sr. and Thelma Carpenter. The birth took place in their home on Mountain View in Fillmore, California.
Fred was raised on the Leavens-Goodenough Ranch between Fillmore and Piru where his father worked. He was taught from the very beginning that the Bible is where the truth about life and God are found and that eternity with God only comes through faith in Jesus Christ.
Fred was a gifted athlete who played football, baseball and basketball at Fillmore High School. In those days, the Fillmore Flashes competed against much larger schools than they were, and yet their successful sports programs in the 1950's were known to defeat these teams.
On November 18, 1956, Fred married Evelyn Welchhance. They raised three children in the same Christian environment in which they had been raised themselves. Fred became a certified land surveyor, and after years working in the field, he spent most of his career as a partner at Benner and Carpenter Civil Engineering and Land Surveying in Santa Paula, California.
But more than the events and achievements, what was most significant about Fred was who he was. His positive and friendly personality won the hearts of people of all ages throughout his life. Those blessed to be family members received steadfast support, encouragement and wisdom, as well as unconditional love from him. Fred's family is grateful to all those who brightened his life over the years. We know that he appreciated each and every one of you.
Fred is survived by his brother, Larry Carpenter (Jeannie), daughters Terri Nevlin (Rick), Tracy Hackney (Chuck), son Matthew Carpenter, grandchildren, Brandon (Belinda), David and Gordon Griffith (Grace), Ryan Hackney, Elyse Patierno (Mark), and six great-grandchildren, Luke, Micah, Josiah and Rachel Griffith, and Nicholas and Sammy Hackney. Over the last ten years, Fred enjoyed the devoted companionship of Louella Hoover. We are all deeply thankful for the gift of Fred's life. There will be a Memorial Service on Saturday, June 1, at 11:00am at Faith Community Church's location on the corner of First Street and Central Avenue in Fillmore.