Jenna James (2016)

“Our beloved Jenna transitioned on February 14th after a short illness. Jenna was surrounded by her whole family including her sister Shirley and her brother George.
She shared in her final days “I’m a happy die-er”.
A sketch of Jenna James seems to start with falling in love with love itself. Loving Kenneth, her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, her collection of eccentric friends, embracing a zest for life, and a lifelong crush on the Beautiful. Her internal vision was always deeply attentive and welcoming of what each day would reveal. We all remember her laugh, her ideas about style and taste: funny & fierce…that’s our Jenna.
Jenna and Her husband, Kenneth James moved to Santa Barbara in 1959. They celebrated their 70thanniversary in July, 2015. Jenna loved to garden, draw and paint and enjoyed taking classes in SB Adult Education. She spent many long walks around the city and ocean of Santa Barbara with Kenneth. She worked together with Kenneth to create Casa Plastering 1963, Casa Insulation 1974 & Santa Barbara Insulation 1978.
Jenna loved the view of the ocean from their home here in Santa Barbara and spent many hours with family and friends enjoying the beauty of their home. Jenna leaves behind her husband Kenneth, children; Karen, Roger (Denise), David (Linda), grandchildren; Jemal (Gina), Felicia (Terry), Arlyn (Stephanie), Jana (Michael) and Matt, and great grandchildren; Blayke, Jaxon, Sora, Rowan, Hunter Victoria and Noa Venessa. Her family, extended family and many friends will miss her so much.”
Donations (In memory of Jenna James) can be sent to Santa Barbara Food Bank at 4554 Hollister Avenue, Santa Barbara, CA 93110. Or online at www.foodbanksbc.org

Charlie "Buck" Basolo (1927-2016)

In the early morning hours of April 12, 2016, Buck Basolo one of the last true cowboys of his generation, peacefully rode into the sunrise for the last time.
Born Charlie DeWayne Basolo on 10-01-1927 to Charlie and Amanda Basolo, Buck spent his entire life in Fillmore, the town he loved. In fact, when Buck was born, his family lived in the same house he spent almost his entire life in, the same house he took his last ride from.
Buck is preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Amanda, his only sister, Maxine Basolo-Kenfield and a grandson, Michael Basolo. Buck is survived by his bride of 67 years, Joyce Krink-Basolo, his two children, Doug Basolo and Debby Basolo-Curnett (Tom Curnett), grandchildren Bryan Basolo, Kammi Basolo, Linzi Basolo-Bravo (Joe Bravo), Beau Basolo, Denae Curnett-Garrett (Dave Garrett), LeAnna Curnett-Thompson and great grandchildren Conner, Peter, Adan, Mia, Austin, Alice, Kyle, Emily and Greyson.
Buck excelled in sports during and after his high school years and was inducted into the Fillmore High School sports Hall of Fame. He coached little league and was a mentor to many young baseball players. He was a member of the Fillmore Search and Rescue Team for many years. SP Buck was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, trap shooting and, most of all, he loved riding his horse and roping.
There will be a graveside service on Monday, April 25th at 10:30 a.m. at Bardsdale Cemetary in Fillmore. A reception will be held following the service at the Piru Petroleum Club in Piru where friends are invited to share memories and celebrate Buck’s life. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to The Fillmore Roping Club, Piru Petroleum Club or the charity of your choice.
For map and directions to ceremony locations and to sign the family’s online guestbook, share stories and post pictures please visit our website: www.garciamortuaryoxnard.com and click on Buck’s name located below “Recent Obituaries”.
Funeral Arrangements are under the direction of the Family Owned and Operated ROBERT REY GARCIA JR FUNERAL SERVICES, Santa Paula, CA 93060. 805.229.7054

Betty Jane Burton (1926-2016)

Our beloved Valentine Betty Jane Burton “Pep” as her family called her died peacefully at home surrounded by family and friends on March 22, 2016.
Betty was born February 14, 1926 to Raymond and Esther Tapie. She graduated from Santa Barbara High School and Ventura College.
Betty lived most of her life in Ventura County. She and her husband Bud settled in Fillmore where they built and operated the Pan Pad Restaurant and Card Club for many years.
Betty was known for her gracious and loving heart, her witty sense of humor and sarcasm, her work ethic and her feisty spirit.
She is survived by her daughter Joan ”Joey” Sommers (husband Bill) , son David Burton and daughter Mary Zielsdorf (husband Kurt) , grandson Craig Aines(wife Janine), granddaughter Robin Tilley Sears(husband John) and great grandson Luke William Sears, grandson Ernie Zielsdorf (wife Morgan), grandson Owen Zielsdorf ( fiancé Amy), granddaughter Emma Zielsdorf and granddaughter Ellie Zielsdorf. She is also survived by her brother Raymond Tapie and sister Joan Secor (husband Larry).
Betty is predeceased by her husband Bud Burton and her son William ”Bill” Tilley (she is also survived by her daughter in law Claudia Tilley Mickelsen).
A very special thank you to her loving caretakers and Assisted Home Hospice for wonderful care.
Her life will be celebrated by family and friends at the home of Kurt and Mary Zielsdorf in Fillmore on Saturday April 30 at @2:00 pm.

Eleanor Delano Arias (1935-2016)

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother Eleanor Delano Arias. She was born on 12/24/1935 and on April 9, 2016 she began "the first day of the rest of her life." She moved onto her new life peacefully at home surrounded by her loved ones in Fillmore, CA. Ellie was born in Longview Texas. Along with her parents (Grandpa D and Ollie) and brothers, the teenaged Eleanor moved to Piru, CA. It was in Piru where she met fell in love and married Lupe Arias. together they raised ten children who she consistently shared unconditional love and admiration. Our Mom dedicated her life to God and her family. She approached life with a smile on her face and never a complaint. Ellie is preceded in death by her husband Lupe Arias and Michael Neely of Washington. They will join her as she celebrates her new life in heaven along side of her precious children Terri, Andy and JJ who have been awaiting her arrival. It is there where she will prepare a home for those of us to follow.
She is survived by children who will miss her dearly David Arias (Yolanda), DeeDee Arias, Monica (Jose) Orozco, Richard (Christine), John (Monica), Kathy (Jonathan)Zavala, and Melissa Arias. She is blessed with numerous Grand and Great Grandchildren, each one having their special place in "Grannies" heart. Amongst those grieving are Ellie's brother and sister in law, Jimmy and Niki Delano, cousin George Gray and Carolyn Schalfer, nieces, nephews, many neighbors and friends whom she considered family. Please know she loved you all.
Services will be held on Thursday April 14, 2016 at 9am at San Salvador Mission in Piru followed by burial at Piru Cemetery.
Moms 1st priority was "take care of the children". In lieu of flowers the family has asked for donations for her God Daughter Jamie Ruiz Rodriquez & her grandsons". Donations can be sent to Jamie Rodriguez c/o Kathy Arias 562 First St. Apt A Fillmore, CA 93015
Services have been entrusted to Skillin-Carroll Mortuary.

February 5, 1929- March 28, 2016
Walter Raymond Johnson passed away peacefully at his home in Lake Havasu City, AZ, on March 28, 2016. He was born on February 2, 1929 to the late Carl and Jenny Johnson, in Tustin, Michigan.
Walt, met Ethel Brindamour and the two were married in Wayne, Michigan on June 20, 1953.
In 1963 Walt and family moved to California. Walt earned an Associate’s Degree and worked for the State of California as a building inspector. Walt also proudly served in the United States Army.
In 1990 Walt and Ethel retired to Lake Havasu City. Walt loved golfing and hunting. Walt was an active member the Eagles, American Legion, ELKS, Knights of Columbus. Walt and Ethel were members of Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church in Lake Havasu City. Walter had a commanding presence and wisdom of life; he was an honest and humble man and will be greatly missed.
Walt is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Bernard; sisters, Dolores, Elaine, and Charlotte; grandson John; great-grandson Kai; and his oldest friend Terry Forsberg. He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years; nine children, Cathy, Susan, Mike, Nancy, Carl, David, Mary, Walter, and Sam; 45 grandchildren; and 40 great-grandchildren. A visitation will be held on Thursday April 7, 2016 from 1:00-5:00pm with a rosary at 3:30 in the Lietz-Fraze Funeral Home chapel. Reception will follow at 7:00pm at the Our Lady of the Lake parish hall. A funeral mass will be held on Friday April 8, 2016 at 1:00pm at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church.
Burial at Lake Havasu Memorial Gardens will immediately follow mass. Services were placed in the care of Lietz-Fraze Funeral Home. Thoughts and condolences can be sent to Walter’s family at www.lietz-frazefuneralhome.com

Josephina M. (Clarijs) Van Der Hoeven (1947-2016)

Josephina M. (Clarijs) Van Der Hoeven 9/25/47-3/31/16
Josephina “Josie” Maria Van Der Hoeven passed away peacefully into the arms of the Lord on March 31, 2016 in Dallas, OR from metastatic breast cancer. She was 67.
Josephina was born in Rotterdam, Holland on September 25, 1947 to her parents, Cornelius and Geertruda Clarijs. She grew up in a very loving family. She married Jan Van Der Hoeven in 1968. The Van Der Hoevens immigrated to the US in 1980 to begin a new life with their family in Fillmore, California. Upon retirement in 2004, they moved to Salem, Oregon. Josephina had several different careers in her lifetime; secretary, certified nursing assistant, custodian; but of all she accomplished being a wonderful mother and loving oma to her grandchildren is what she will be remembered for most.
Josephina is survived by her husband, Jan, and her three children Sheila Myers(Garry), Vincent Van Der Hoeven(Yamilette), Christian Van Der Hoeven; her siblings, Frans Clarijs(Marjo), Ellie Boes(Paul), Truus Clarijs; grandchildren Brittany, Ashley, Matthew, Mark and Aliya and numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Christian Clarijs.
Josephina requested to be cremated. Her ashes will be scattered at a future date during a family vacation. The family would especially like to thank the nursing staff at Dallas Retirement Village Health Center and Willamette Valley Hospice for their constant, attentive care. In lieu of flowers, please consider sending a donation to Willamette Valley Hospice.

Carol Marie Maus (1940-2016)

With great sorrow yet with great hope and love we announce the death of our beautiful and brilliant mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend Carol Marie Maus. Carol has been taken by the angels to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and to be reunited with her loving husband Rick and all those family and friends who have gone before her. Carol was born to Joseph and Florence Carbone on December 15, 1940 in Boston Massachusetts. During World War II she and her family moved to San Francisco and immediately following the war moved to Culver City. There she grew up and graduated at the age of sixteen from Culver High School in 1957, where she excelled in her classes and drew praise for both her artistic talent and design.
Carol was the first in her family to go to college. She graduated in 1961 from U.C.L.A with a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing and soon became head of surgical nursing at U.C.L.A. In 1962 Carol met the love of her life Rick Maus, and in 1963 they were married. In 1964 they welcomed the first of their four children Ken, followed the next year by Terri, then Jerry in 1968 and Rory in 1971. Carol chose family over career and decided to stay at home to raise her children and both she and Rick worked hard to make this possible.
Carol (Grandma Coco) as she was later to be known, was all that comes to mind when one thinks of an ideal wife and mother, gentle and generous, devout and devoted, strong and self-sacrificing, hardworking and handy. She was a true lady of beauty and class while not being vain or self important. She gave of herself for friends, family, church and charity, and enjoyed helping them in any way she could. Carol was a member of the Altar Society and the building fund for St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church where she attended Mass daily.
Carol was hurt greatly by the passing of her husband and best friend Rick in 2004 and missed him dearly. Yet, as she always did with faith, hope and strength and a lot of coffee and chocolate, she persevered, living life to the fullest, enjoying her family and friends and many travels. Now with faith in Christ, Carol has gone before us reunited with Rick, waiting to greet us someday.
Carol is survived by her son and daughter in law Ken and Debbie Maus; grandchildren Brennen and Collin of Ventura; daughter and son in law Terri and Tony Nisich; grandchildren Anthony Joseph (A.J.) and Erick of Santa Barbara ; son Jerry Maus; grandchildren Whitney and Jaymee Maus of Fillmore; and Whitney’s children Isaac and Daniel; son Rory Maus and fiancé Deana Herrera of Fillmore; brother Joseph and sister in law Barbara Carbone of Ventura; brother Ron Carbone of Ventura; niece Vicki Carbone of Long Beach; niece Jenny and her husband Joe Mussehl and their children Liam and Darby of Ventura.
Carol leaves behind many good friends and we thank them all with a special thanks to Peggy, Katie and Rosie who have been a Godsend. Thank you to all the doctors, nurses and healthcare workers who have helped Carol and her family during this difficult time. God bless you all.
Friends are invited to attend a visitation from 4:00 pm to 8:00 p.m. with a recitation of the rosary at 7:00p.m, April 6, 2016 at Skillin-Carroll Mortuary in Fillmore. Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. St. Francis of Assisi Church in Fillmore. Burial will follow at Bardsdale Cemetery.
Mrs. Carol Maus has been entrusted to the care of Skillin-Carroll Mortuary.

Dorothy “Dottie” Lynch (1932-2016)

It is with heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, sister,
aunt and grandmother, Dorothy “Dottie” Lynch. Our Lord decided it was time to bring her Home to Everlasting Life on March 24th, 2016, at the age of 83.
She was born Dorothy May Grosvenor on July 17, 1932 in Storm Lake, Iowa
to Leo and Glenny Grosvenor. She lived quite an adventurous and eventful life that led her to all parts of the country. Her deepest roots were laid in Fillmore, CA; moving there in 1979 with her four kids. In this small town, she was a secretary, a writer, a singer, an entrepreneur, and an investigative reporter. There was never a dull moment with Dorothy. She, and her kids, kept Fillmore on its toes. Some events were even documented through a weekly column she wrote, called "Sharing My Feelings". She loved music and would regularly sing in the choir at the Fillmore First United Methodist Church, where she was a member.
In 2006, Dorothy sold her Fillmore house and courageously moved to Marshall, Texas. At arrival, she hit the ground running and joined many local organizations. She also became a member and sang in the choir of the First United Methodist Church in town. Her son, Matthew, who also lives in Marshall, made a comment soon after she moved there, saying that she could probably run for Mayor.
She will be remembered as a loving, caring, outgoing and independent woman who loved the Lord. She was a friend to all and always had a smile to share, but her most important role was that of a mother. She raised and nurtured four children whom she loved dearly.
Those left to cherish the Memory of Dorothy are her four children, Matthew Lynch, III (Sandy), Michael Lynch (Vera), Kevin Lynch (Melinda), and Kathleen Breidinger (Brent); sister, Kathy Johnson; grandchildren, Heather, Morgan, Hunter, Shona, Taylor, Emily, Holly, Maya, and Caden, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Preceding her in death are her parents and one sister, Virginia Potulicki.
A Celebration of Life will be held 2pm, Saturday, April 9th at the Bardsdale United Methodist Church, 1498 Bardsdale Ave, Fillmore, CA 93015, with reception immediately following. She will be buried in Storm Lake, Iowa at a later date.
Dorothy has the following request: "... all those attending wear bright colors in attire. NO BLACK! This is a celebration! And lots of flowers!”

Lynn Lee (Maxwell) Eaton (1935-2016)

Joy and sorrow mingle in our hearts as we, the children of Lynn Lee (Maxwell) Eaton, share that on March 18th, God took our mama by the hand, and announced, "Lynn, it’s time for you to come home with me!" In that moment she joyfully left behind a body that had suffered greatly with asthma, lupus, and, as she would often say, “a body that’s not getting any younger!”
This was on the last note she wrote. 1 Thessalonians 4:13 ...we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. 17... And so we will be with the Lord forever. 18 Therefore encourage one another with these words.
Our beautiful mom was born in Bakersfield CA, on April 3, 1935, the oldest child of Robert and Alyce (Maggie) Maxwell. After graduating in 1953 from Fillmore High she married her sweetheart, John Eaton.
From 1963–1975, our family went to the Philippines as missionaries with New Tribes Mission. We lived on a mountain top, surrounded by the Kalanguya tribal people. There was no running water or electricity. Mom cooked on a wood stove, sewed our clothes on an old treadle machine and at night read to us by lantern light. Life was good!
Mom’s greatest joys were studying and teaching the Bible, talking to and lunching with friends, working on puzzles, playing the piano, sharing life with her kids, and especially, being a grand and great-grandmother. She is deeply missed.
She was preceded in death by her parents, and brother, Robert, she’s survived by her sisters Jen (and Dick) Fredericksen of Camarillo, Karen Maxwell, and brother Mike Maxwell of Bakersfield, son, Gary (and Kellie) Eaton of Newcastle, Australia; daughters Leah (and Peter) Humphreys of Ontario, Canada; and Tami (and Charlie) Rutledge of Camarillo, her beloved12 grandchildren and 26 ½ great grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider giving a love gift toward fulfilling Lynn’s wish, that family from around the world might be together as we say good-bye.
To contribute by check please make it out to Charlie Rutledge and put Lynn’s name in the memo. Send it to Chapel City Church (Formerly Camarillo Evangelical Free Church) 2315 Ventura Blvd, Camarillo, CA 93010
Or go to the following Go Fund Me link … https://www.gofundme.com/d3v9bxdg
The memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 26 at 2:00 p.m. at LifeWay Baptist Church, 673 W Santa Paula St, Santa Paula, CA.

John Roy Perkins (1953-2016)

John Roy Perkins passed away on Thursday, March 17, 2016 in his home town of Fillmore Ca. He was born on July 31, 1953 in the city of Abilene in the great state of Texas. His family later moved to Fillmore when he was 5 years old. Later on in life he met the love of his life Debbie Perkins and soon after married in May 1, 1976. They soon started a family welcoming a daughter Courtney in 1981 and a son Kiel in 1982. At the age of 62 he was still doing what he loved working as an Electrical Contractor. He was the Vice President of the Fillmore Club and was involved with Fillmore Little League for a number of years. John loved to go hunting, NASCAR, Angels baseball, Lakers basketball, collecting tins and any type of nick-knacks he could get his hands on. He loved his children with all his heart and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.
John was preceded in death by his father B.K. Perkins, mother Maudie Perkins, Brother Joey Perkins, father in law Richard Turk and mother in law Allene Turk. He is survived by his wife Debbie Perkins, daughter Courtney and son Kiel Perkins. His brother Kenneth Perkins (Royetta), brother Larry Perkins, sister Brenda Hawkins, sister Beverly "Stretch" Burhoe, sister Barbara Everette, brother Jimmy Perkins (Pam), bother in law Mike Turk (Jenni), sister in law Susan Leon (Ross Wildman), many nieces and nephews as well as The "FREAKS" and you know who you are!!!
The family will be holding a celebration of his life on Friday, March 25, 2016 at 12 p.m. at their home in Fillmore, Ca. If you have any questions about the location please email his daughter at courtneyjperkins@yahoo.com

Nora Gladys Neal (1917-2016)

Nora Gladys Neal went to her heavenly home on Saturday March 5th, 2016. She was born on March 10th, 1917 in Halfway, Missouri to parents George and Dollie Sullivan. Nora was immersed in a Christian community from the time she was young, and accepted Jesus personally when she was only seven years old. She had what some would describe as a “simple faith”. She loved Jesus Christ, sought to know him more throughout her life, and loved others more because of it. She remained a faithful servant of the Lord, and to cite one of her favorite hymns, would say “I will cling to the old rugged cross”.
Nora was blessed to have a large loving family. She married Charley “Chick” Neal on August 27th, 1937 in Bolivar, Missouri. Nora was a devoted mother and has always had a passion to care for her family. Her family adored her, and she will be sorely missed by many. Her legacy is her family that were all brought closer together because of her love and compassion.
She is preceded in death by her husband Charles, in 1992; a son, Bobby, in 1993; and a son, Orville, in 2004.
She is survived by her son Charles; four siblings, Hazel, John L., Ernie and Vernie; seven grandchildren, Dana, Kimberly, Eric, Russell, Cindy, Richard and Ronald; and fourteen great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at the Bardsdale Cemetery, 2pm Friday March 18th, 2016. Friends are welcome.

Ramon Meza (1947-2016)

Remembering Ramon Meza
Long-time Fillmore resident, Ramon Meza peacefully entered into the arms of the Lord on March 7, at the age of 68.
He was born on September 28, 1947, in Tijuana, Mexico, the son of the late Maria and Dionicio Meza. He was the fifth of nine children. His father was a farm worker and his mother a homemaker. The family immigrated to the United States on July 4, 1964.
The family settled in the agriculturally rich community of Fillmore. Ramon began his tenure with Fillmore-Piru Citrus in 1964 working in a myriad of capacities, ultimately serving as the assistant field manager until 1997. Subsequently, Ramon entered into business and started a farm labor contractor company, Santa Clara Farm Service.
In early 1970 Ramon met Kathy Muñoz. They fell in love and married in August of the same year. His joy with Kathy and his pride in his son, Raymond, and his daughter, Lydia, made his life more complete. He became a U.S. citizen in 1992, another proud moment in his life.
Ramon made a decision to accept Christ in October 1991. He was a member of Faith Community Church.
He was an adventurer and loved to travel. Together with his wife he traveled to many foreign ports by cruise ship. After retiring, he also enjoyed spending mornings with the coffee club at the Fillmore McDonald’s.
Ramon is survived by his wife of 45 years, Kathy Meza; their two children, Raymond Meza and his wife, Selena, of Somis and Lydia Meza-Magallanes and her husband, Anthony, of Oceanside; and four grandchildren who were the delight of his life.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial service at the Faith Community Church, 416 Central Ave, Fillmore, on Saturday, March 19 at 10 am.
A reception will be held at the church immediately following the service.

Roy Lee Alsup Jr. (1941-2016)

Roy Lee Alsup Jr was born in Temple,Texas, on June 28 1941 to Roy Lee Alsup and Martha Louise ( Barker)and his sister Betty “Brantley” Alsup.was born 3 years later . Roy moved from Texas in 1947 to Santa Paula, where he lived out on Limonera Ranch camp #800. There he grew up and made many life long friends. When he was 17 he enlisted into the United States Navy. While in the Navy he met a beautiful brunette name Peggy Bevill. They married a short time later in 1960. A short time after that they had their first child Roy and 3 years later a daughter Paige. Roy loved being a father so much so that he was baptized in 1967 and gave his life to christ. He knew even as a young man he wanted to raise to his family with God’s help. He and his son were in the “Y” Indian guides and he helped coach his son’s baseball teams all through little league. Roy bought his first home on Pamala Ln in Santa Paula in 1969. That was a vey proud time for Roy, he had been working for Union Oil for many years. He felt God had truly blessed him.
During this time, Roy took his family on many memorable vacations. Many of these were with the Floyd Patterson Family. They took many trips to Bass lake, house boat trips to lake Shasta and lake Powell. Roy and Floyd were more like brothers than friends Floyd “ Captain” and Dad truly enjoyed each other company and they’re families melded well.
In 1976 Roy moved his family to Fillmore. There they became members of the Fillmore Church of Christ, as a member of the church Roy became active as a bus driver in the Joy Bus program. He truly loved driving the Joy Bus. While driving he always greeted the kids with a big hello and bright smile. He would walk down the Bus aisle and shake the change in his pockets when he wanted to get the kids to quiet down, and the most quiet one would get a quarter. Roy many life long friends made many life long friends on the Joy Bus, Kids that are now grown will always remember the Joy Bus days.
Roy continued his career with Union Oil moving up through the ranks with the company from 1981 to 1985 moving around with the company as needed. In 1985 Roy settled back into this Hometown of Santa Paula. Working in Torrey Mountain in Piru and the bridge in Santa Pauala. Roy was known best as to his Union Oil friends as “ B.R.T” better known as Big Roy from Texas. Roy continued working for Union even after the company was sold to Torch.
In 1995 Roy started dating Shirley Logsdon whom he had known for years as the owner of the Pepper Mill and Logsdon’s restaurant. There friendship quickly moved on to much much more. They were married in January 1996 and Roy retired from working in October of that same year. Thus starting an exciting chapter in his life. Roy and Shirely had lots of things in common, one being love or family. Both made a easy transition into each other’s families. Roy loved Shirley’s kids and Grandkids as they were his own and they loved there Papa Roy. They both always wanted to travel and that’s what they did. They took cruises to Mexico, Hawaii, France, Italy, Greece, Crotia, Austrailia, and New Zealand. They also took fishing trips to Alaska, Canada, Austrailia, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua.
Roy always loved to play the 12 string guitar and sing and would play and sing whenever someone asked which usually prompted everybody to join on in. He loved to Country dance, play poker, spend time with his friends and attend church. Roy loved his kids and grandkids the most. He love for his family was unwavering. His grandkids up a spark in his eye. All kids loved Roy because was always a big kid at heart himself.
Roy lee Alsup Jr. passed from this life to join his heavenly father surrounded by his family on March 10th 2016 he was 74 years of age. Roy was preceded in death by his wife Shirley Logsdon Aslup. He is survived by his son Roy and Patty Alsup and his daughter Paige and Sam Bennett. Grandchildren Samuel, Summer, Cameron Bennett. Nathan, Brianna and Trent Alsup and Great Grandson Jacob Lee. Grandchildren Tyler, Dillon, Jordan, Devin and Laney Wagner and Hailey and Zachary McCarthy and Shirley’s children and grandchildren Tom and Bob Wagner, Gawain and Ali Wagner and Ashley and David McCarthy.
A viewing will be held from 6pm to 8 pm on Thursday March 17th 2016 at Skillian/Carrol mortuary at 738 E. Santa Paula st, Santa Paula. We will be celebrating the life of Roy at the Church of Christ 276 West Santa Paula St. Santa Paula. On Friday the 18th of March on Friday at 12 noon. Graveside to follow. A dinner will begin at 3 p.m at the Church of Christ.

Patricia Jean Keneally Baum (1936-2016)

Patricia Jean Keneally Baum departed this life on March 14, 2016 at home of complications from multiple myeloma. She was born in San Francisco, California, July 22, 1936, the first of three children born to Henry and Dorothy Keneally.
She attended university in Arizona and received a BA in Art Education. Her first teaching job was in Morenci, Arizona. She then relocated to Fillmore, CA and taught Art and Special Education classes.
Pat married her soul mate, Stephen Baum, on June 25, 1977, and they spent thirty-seven wonderful years together. They taught together at Fillmore High School and enjoyed many shared interests: comic books, science fiction, opera, and Asian art. They delighted in each other and were as they coined it: two halves of a whole.
She and her husband, Stephen, were honored as the Homecoming Grand Marshalls of the Fillmore High School homecoming parade in 1989.
Patricia was very active at Fillmore High School, teaching special education and independent study. It was known that when Patricia prepared a student for a general education class, the student was more than ready to be a success even away from her tutelage. She was an advocate of students who could not speak for themselves and was a devoted teacher, always available for her “kids” even after their formal education ceased.
She was a proud and devoted member of Native Daughters of the Golden West, a charter member of the Fillmore Piru Environmental League, and a member of both the Fillmore Garden Club and the Ventura Doll Association. She was a bell ringer and played many years in the Bardsdale United Methodist Bell Choir. She was a founding member of a women’s group of twelve ladies who have met monthly for the past twenty-two years. She was a lifelong learner and among her varied interests took a woodshop class to build a grandfather’s clock, learned how to make and repair porcelain dolls, and took a class to build her own computer.
She is survived by her younger brother, Hank Keneally, of Phoenix, Arizona; sister-In-law Shirley Keneally, nephew Jon Ray Keneally, both of Mesa, Arizona; niece, Michelle Keneally Black of Phoenix Arizona; nephew, Brian Keneally of El Cajon, California; brother-in-law, Joseph Baum of Huntington, Indiana, sister-in-law, Dorothy Baum and nephew, David Baum both of Columbus, Ohio. She also leaves her two god-children: Heather Ondersma of Vancouver, Canada, and Christopher Ondersma of Ventura, California.
A special thanks goes to her caregivers: Sherri Cole, Sandy Arzate, and Joseph Zavala, who lovingly cared for her during her last months.
There will be a graveside service at 11:00 am on Monday, March 21st, at Bardsdale Cemetery. Following there will be a 12:00 luncheon in LeBard Hall of the Bardsdale United Methodist Church. Friends are invited to share reminiscences of Patricia’s life.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Patricia K. Baum Memorial Scholarship. Donations may be sent directly to the Fillmore Alumni association, P.O. Box 385, Fillmore, CA 93016. Donations may also be given to ASPCA at: ASPCA Gift Processing Center, P.O. Box 96929, Washington, DC 20077-7127.

Ramon "Monchis" Ponce Jr.

Born on April 19, 1945 and Died on February 10, 2016.
He lost a brief battle with Cancer, in and out of the Hospital, only to return home and it was there he decided to return to the Lord.
Ramon was born to Ramon Ponce Sr. and Sara Ponce in Ensenada, Baja California. In 1972, he settled in Fillmore. He was employed at Robinson and Lamey in Piru and currently, Llamas Plastics in Sylmar. He enjoyed family functions, dancing, watching sports, walking around town, playing poker, and a Cold Beer with a cigarette. Mostly, he loved his Wife of 40 Years, Edith Ponce.
He is preceded in Death by his Parents- Ramon and Sara Ponce; Sister- Carmela Ponce Ortega.
He is survived by his Wife Edith Ponce, Stepchildren- Richard Molina and Krystal Chaney, Grandchildren- Risha, William, and Aubrey; Brothers- Adolfo (Irene), Francisco, Jose (Gloria), Raul (Corina), and Gonzalo; His Sisters- Rosa Huerta (Adolfo), Martha Ponce, and Susana Ponce; Nephews, Nieces, and Godchildren.
Special Thanks to Dr. Byun, Dr. Slater, VCMC Staff-DOU, Livingston Memorial Hospice, and Garden Memorial.
Mass will be on March 10, 2016 at 11am- St. Francis of Assisi Church in Fillmore at 1048 W. Ventura St. Burial will follow the Mass at Bardsdale Cemetery at 1698 Sespe St. Reception will take place at the Memorial Building at 511 Second St.- Fillmore, Ca.

Alan Thomas Florence (1946-2016)

August 4th 1946 – February 11th 2016
Alan has joined his wife Peggy Florence in everlasting peace. Alan is survived by his stepson Nick Edwards, his daughter in law Kim and their daughters Toni and Ali.
Alan, whose middle name was Tom and nick name “Pops” will be missed but has left those who loved him a great many joyful memories to be remembered by.
Alan was a Golfer. He was the son of a Golfer and spent many days with Nick at their favorite Golf Course, Elkins Ranch just outside of the city of Fillmore. He loved the 17th hole at Elkins because he could look out into the Santa Clara River Valley towards the Pacific Ocean and see all the trees in the valley. It brought back childhood memories of when as a kid he worked at Sleepy Hollow Golf Course in Ohio.
Alan was a Nurseryman by trade, spending over 23 years dedicated to it. Many people over the years and even after his retirement would call him up asking for tips and suggestions on what to grow and how to grow their yards and gardens.
Alan and Nick were prone to taking trips to Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure Parks. Alan found great joy on rides such as Soaring Across California of which let him see the natural beauty of California and Cars Land which reminded him of the years spent in the High Desert where he lived after his service in the Army.
Alan served his country honorably during the Vietnam War. He was lucky to have not been put directly in harm’s way but was instead stationed in Japan where he carried out his duties. After the war Alan was stationed in California at Mount Gleason. Upon leaving the Army in 1972 after 6 years of service he decided to remain in the Antelope Valley.
While living in the tiny town of Little Rock he met and fell in love with his one true love, Margaret “Peggy” Ann Edwards. Alan became like a father to Peggy’s son Nick Edwards. Alan and Peggy dated and remained close and not until Nick was in High School did they tie the knot. The year was 1989.
Peggy passed in 2004 and Alan never remarried. Alan continued to wear his wedding ring up until days prior to his own passing and only took it off because it no longer would stay on his finger Alan loved Peggy eternally.
Alan showed great love for his family and those who were like family to him. He would help in any way he could to help others when they needed it. He was a kind soul and will be missed and always remembered.

Jeffrey Curtis Acosta (1957-2015)

JULY 10, 1957/ NOV 29, 2015
Our Buddy Jeff passed away peacefully in Moorpark, CA.
Surrounded by his Loved ones.
“No more pain in his two-legged Journey On Earth”
Jeffrey is the son of Viola Anne Acosta and the late Alfred Andrew Acosta and the first grandson of the late Guadalupe Dominquez Ramirez and Fermin Arroyo Ramirez of Piru. Survived by his mother Viola Anne Acosta, sister Stephanie Ann Acosta and brother Steve Alfred Acosta of Piru. Nieces: Diana Acosta Sawyer,Amber Nativada Acosta Campbell. Nephews: Steve Alfred Acosta, Daniel Acosta and
Gunner Edward Acosta.
If we could bring you back again for one more hour or day we'd express all our unspoken love we'd have countless things to say. If we could bring you back again
we'd say we treasured you and that your presence in our lives meant more than we ever knew. If we could bring you back again to tell you what we should you'd know how much we miss you now and if we could, we would.
A celebration of life will be held at 1:00pm on Friday February 5, 2016 at Piru Cemetery 3580 Center Street Piru, Ca.
For map and directions to ceremony locations and to sign the family’s online guestbook, share stories and post pictures please visit our website: www.santapaulafuneralhome.com and click on Jeffrey’s name located below “Recent Obituaries”.
Funeral Arrangements are under the direction of the Family Owned and Operated ROBERT REY GARCIA JR FUNERAL SERVICES, Santa Paula, CA 93060. 805.229.7054

Mary Spitler (1918-2015)

It brings great sadness to announce the passing of Mary, from this world to the next, in this great mystery of life. May she rest, in peace.
She was born Mary Virginia Simpson on November 17, 1918 at St. John’s Hospital in Oxnard, California. Mary was the only child of Mary Virginia (Parks) Simpson and George Levick Simpson. The first day of her life she was brought to Rancho Virginia in Sespe, California, which was owned by her grandmother, Virginia Bizzell Parks. Soon afterward, she returned with her parents to their home in Los Angeles, California. Mary’s father was the western U.S. sales manager for Fisk Tires and was a member of the Wilshire Country Club, where he golfed with many players of the day, including Bobby Jones.
Before Mary was old enough to go to school, she and her parents moved to Vallejo, California for a few years, then returned to Los Angeles. Mary usually spent her summers with her grandmother at Rancho Virginia in Sespe. She finished her primary schooling in Los Angeles, and then moved with her parents to Rancho Virginia in 1933.
Mary attended Fillmore High School, graduating in 1937, and the following year she took a post-graduate course there. In 1938 she began a long career as secretary at Sespe Elementary School in Fillmore, California. She was a dedicated employee there through several generations of students. In 1943 Mary was wed to Robert W. “Bud” Spitler. They were married for 25 years. She retired from Sespe Elementary School in 1986.
After “retiring” the first time, Mary continued to do secretarial work, first for Stephen Onstot & Associates, and later, for many years, for the Fillmore Irrigation Company, retiring full-time to her beloved Rancho Virginia in 2004.
Mary was well known for her outgoing and indomitable spirit. She often befriended the kids who, for one reason or another, ended up in the school principal’s office. She volunteered her time to civic and religious functions in Fillmore. One of her lifelong dedications was to the welfare of cats and dogs, taking many into her home, and being a regular donor to the Humane Society, the SPCA, and the Canine Adoption and Rescue League (CARL’s) in Santa Paula, California. Mary was a longtime member of the Humane Society, the American Cancer Society, the Fillmore Alumni Association, and Trinity Episcopal Church in Fillmore.
She will be greatly missed by her dear friends, three godsons, three goddaughters, the “Rancho Virginia boys”, and their families. According to her wishes a private memorial party in her honor will be held at Rancho Virginia at a later date.
Donations in Mary’s memory can be made to CARL’s in Santa Paula through their website donation link at carldog.org or by mail at 901 Mission Rock Road, Santa Paula, CA 93060.

Meredith G. Taylor (1925-2016)

Meredith G. Taylor, known to family and friends as Mert, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Friday, January 8, 2016. Mert was born May 24, 1925, in Rialto California, to parents Meredith G. and Irene Taylor.
He was preceded in death by his parents; father and mother-in-law, Joseph and Natalie Costanzo; brother-in-law’s John, Sal, Tom, and Pete Costanzo; and special nephew John Costanzo.
Mert was raised in the Midwest. His parents followed highway construction work. He entered the U.S. Army Air Force in 1943 at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas as a heavy equipment/crane operator. He was stationed in Iceland as a Sergeant. After being discharged in 1946, with two fellow veterans, Mert purchased a Harley Davidson 80 flathead to make the trip from Mississippi to Glendale, California to visit his parents. After arriving in California, Mert acquired a job in Long Beach with Wonderly Construction as a heavy equipment operator.
Mert became best friends with the neighbor’s sons and daughter. There he met the love of his life, Connie Costanzo. Connie’s brothers nicknamed him Mert. A couple of years later, he was asked to transfer to Fillmore to manage the construction yard for the tri-counties. Mert and Connie were married June 1954.
After living in Fillmore for a few years, Wonderly Construction closed their Fillmore yard. That’s when Mert and Connie decided to stay and open their own business. In 1961, M.G. Taylor Equipment started with Mert operating his D6 bulldozer and Connie managing the bookwork. He provided custom farming services in the Santa Clara Valley and serviced oil companies in constructing new drill sites, new roads, pipeline right-of-ways and maintenance of existing well sites in Ventura, Kern, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Monterey and Los Angeles Counties. The company is truly a family business in that Mert and Connie’s children continue to manage the business today. The company celebrates 55 years in business.
Mert was faithful to St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church where he made close and personal friends. He was a member of Grange, American Legion, Fillmore Club, Los Padrinos Club, and Piru Petroleum Club. Mert loved animals and enjoyed horses. He attended the local roping arena and cattle roundups. With a local group of men, he would pack in on horseback and camp at the Sespe Hot Springs. Mert started taking his son at age six. He took memorable vacations with the family.
For the love of Fillmore and the surrounding area, Mert volunteered his time and equipment toward many community projects such as the Fillmore Little League Baseball field, Shiells Park, and Fillmore BMX Park to name a few.
Mert is survived by his loving wife, Connie; son, Greg Taylor of Fillmore; daughters, Natalie (Don Tello) of Fillmore, Cynthia, (Tom Wise) of Bakersfield, and Rita Taylor of Fillmore. He leaves behind six grandchildren, Brooke Taylor, Jannelle Taylor, Grant Taylor, Tom (Chantel Wise Jr.), John Wise and Ceresse Wise; great grandson, Tom Wise, III; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Mert will always be remembered as a loving Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, Uncle and Friend. He was a man of his word. He never talked about anyone much less his accomplishments. His priority was to make a living for the family. He’ll be remembered for his humor, his love for the outdoors and his sincerity.
Rosary services will take place on Thursday, January 21, 2016, 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 Church on Friday, January 22nd, at 10:00 AM. Graveside services will follow immediately after the Mass at Bardsdale Cemetery, with military honors presented by the United States Army.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Mert’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 TedMayrFuneralHome.com

Reguberto ‘Rigo’ Landeros (1964-2016)

A strong voice of community pride and optimism in the City of Fillmore has gone silent with the passing of Fillmore Fire Chief and Assistant City Manager Rigo Landeros. Chief Landeros had a love of family and community that was known throughout Ventura County. His love and devotion to those he cared about was unmatched, and he was constantly waving and greeting friends, children and citizens as he would drive around the City in the Chief’s fire vehicle.
Rigo Landeros was born on February 5, 1964 in Fillmore and grew up in the City he loved. His childhood dream was to join the Fire Service as a firefighter and he started working as a part time volunteer firefighter in Fillmore after completing a reserve firefighter academy in 1991. As he developed his skills with the Fire Service, he also worked as a meat cutter with Gelson’s Markets, where his talents were quickly recognized and within a few years he became an executive in that chain. But his beloved City and his love for the fire service beckoned to him and he left Gelson’s in 2009 to become Fillmore’s Fire Chief, a position he filled in an exemplary manner until his passing on January 7th.
But above his love for firefighting and community was his love for his wife Laura and his family. He was a devoted husband to Laura, father to children Christina Bingham (Elden), Daniel and David Landeros, and grandfather to Gabriella and Mia Bingham. He is also survived by his father and three brothers and three sisters.
To Rigo Landeros, no matter who he met in his daily travels, his caring for others before himself was always apparent. Chief Landeros will be missed by many as will his responses to anyone who ever asked how he was on any given day. His responses would always reflect how he felt about how he lived his life – “Just another beautiful day in paradise, my friend” or “Living the dream”. May Rigo rest in peace and those who knew him be comforted with the knowledge that he would want them to continue to feel the love that he bestowed upon so many.
A public memorial service for Chief Landeros will be held at the Church of the Latter Day Saints in Ventura, 3501 Loma Vista Road on Tuesday, January 19th at 10:00 a.m. Arrangements under the direction of Skillin-Carroll Mortuary.