Geraldine Hardison (December 1946 – September 2023)

Geraldine Hardison Sauer passed September 26th after a long illness while at the family ranch property near Fillmore. Gerry was born in 1946 to Betty and Russell Hardison and raised on their citrus, avocado, and dairy farm in the Sespe area.

After kindergarten in Fillmore, she attended St. Sebastian's School in Santa Paula, then graduated from St. Catherine's Academy-By-The-Sea in Ventura.

At Cal Poly San Luis Obispo she earned her Bachelor's and Master's degrees and her teaching credential.

Her first work was at Old Orchard School in the rapidly growing Newhall School District. For over 40 years Gerry taught kindergarteners and others in that district. She was always pleased when she found a new generation of students whose parents she had also taught.

She met and married Jerry Sauer and they lived and taught in that district, earning the respect and affection of students, parents and fellow teachers and staff members.

Jerry and Gerry had their greatest pleasure when their daughter Stephanie Anne arrived and became the focus of their lives.

The Sauers bought a second home in Big Bear Lake where they enjoyed the climate and their community of friends. Gerry had recently decided to make Big Bear her primary home.

Gerry loved her family and teaching and her friends - and, despite chronic back pain, enjoyed chocolate, house-boating on Trinity Lake, "game night", old Hop-along Cassidy shows, Buck Owens music, NASCAR, her pet cats and, especially, her pug dogs.

Preceded in death by her parents, her husband Jerry and her brother Philip Hardison, Gerry is survived by her daughter Stephanie Sauer, her brother Tom Hardison, her many friends and her beloved pets.

A memorial lunch is planned for 11AM on November 11th at the William S. Hart Park Hall, 24151 Newhall Avenue, Newhall, CA 91321.
RSVP to GeraldineSauerMemorial@Yahoo.com

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to The Cal Poly Alumni fund, the Children's Home Society, the Fillmore Historical Museum, or the Pug Queen rescue
Foundation.

Roy Lee Culver, II (August 1957 - September 2023)

Roy Lee Culver, II, 66, of Ventura, passed away suddenly on Sep. 28, 2023. Roy is survived by his children; son, Roy, wife, Kristi, and granddaughters, Kylee and Kenzie; son, Marshall, wife, Rachel, and grandsons, Wiley, Liam, Micah, and Hayden; and daughter, Randi. His sisters, Audrey Allred, husband Jim Allred and family, and Freda Storey, husband Alan Storey and family. Also, Victoria and many other family and friends. Roy was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Carmen Culver, and grandson, Nathaniel.

Roy was in FFA and an all CIF-1A division champion pitcher in 1975 for Fillmore High School, and got to throw the first pitch at a Dodgers game. He was an accomplished salesman specializing in windows and doors. He was the top salesman both monthly and annually during his career at Pozzi Windows. He worked for numerous other door and window companies throughout his career. He loved to help people build their dream home.

Roy loved the outdoors; surfing, riding his motorcycle, climbing, biking, hiking, fishing, being on the lake, and off-roading in his Land Rover. He took pride in everything he did. He loved to tell jokes, especially dad jokes. He loved to be with his family and friends. Being a dad and grandpa was his greatest accomplishment. Roy enjoyed having his children and grandchildren out to his ranch where his grandchildren would run around and he would BBQ. Roy loved to celebrate others and their accomplishments. He always made sure to attend all events. He loved to think of new inventions. He was always so optimistic and the biggest dreamer.

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30

His service will be Saturday, Oct. 21, at 1:00 PM at Reality Church in Ventura

Please send flowers to Reality Church Ventura, 1954 Goodyear Ave., Ventura
Flowers can be delivered Monday through Thursday.
For any delivery questions contact Billy Hunter (805)279-0006.

John Lopez Muñoz (May 1923 – September 2023)

John Lopez Muñoz, age 100, devoted husband, loving father, and grandfather, passed from this life into eternal life with Christ on September 11, 2023, at Renown Hospital in Reno, Nevada.

John, the youngest of ten children, was born on May 6, 1923, in Fillmore, California, to Cayetano and Natalia Muñoz. He graduated from Fillmore Union High School in 1943. During high school, he discovered his athletic prowess on the football field and developed a lifelong love of the sport.

He was united in holy matrimony to Lydia Rico on February 9, 1945. The union was blessed with seven children. They were married for 72 years. Lydia preceded him in death on May 16, 2017.

As he and his wife raised their young, growing family, John worked alongside his brother Frank at the Muñoz Pipe Company in Fillmore, whom he had worked for since he was 15. His career path next took him to work for Union Construction. After a few years, John realized he wanted more control over his work life and the freedom to make decisions, so he decided to take the reins of the Muñoz Pipe Company and become his own boss. After working in the pipe business and construction, John turned over the family business to his sons and started truck driving for Fillmore-Piru Citrus.

In 1994, John and Lydia relocated to Reno, Nevada, along with several family members. At age 71, John started working at the Salvation Army in Reno. John worked until he was 83 years old. He and his beloved wife Lydia enjoyed a retired life surrounded by the beauty of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

John was fond of the great outdoors and traveling. He spent many happy days camping with his family and hunting with his sons and grandsons. He and Lydia traveled to numerous places, including Hawaii, Mexico, Israel, Egypt, and Italy; he most cherished visiting Vatican City in Rome.

John and Lydia were active members of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Fillmore and St. Therese Church of the Little Flower in Reno. He volunteered at numerous church events and was an active member of the Knights of Columbus, a Catholic fraternal organization, and the Los Padrinos Club, a local church organization. In the 60s, John and his wife organized and hosted Black and White dances for the local community. Despite his busy schedule, he still found time to follow his passion for USC football and the Los Angeles Rams.

John had a great sense of humor, encouraged others, and remained positive no matter what. Our family will always hold him in our hearts and remember all the treasured memories, love, and laughter we shared. John is preceded in death by his daughters, Theresa and Marie, and his son Martin. He is survived by four children, John (Jane), Martha, Kathy, Peter (Debbie), and his granddaughter Danielle, whom he helped raise from a young age. John had 20 grandchildren, 55 great-grandchildren, and 20 great-great-grandchildren who all loved and adored him.

A funeral mass will be held on October 28, 2023 at St Therese Church of the Little Flower, 875 E Plumb Lane, Reno NV 89502. Reception to follow.

Harold J. Burns (March 1941 – September 2023)

Harold J. Burns, 82, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, September 10th, 2023. Harry resided in Oak Park Ca, though his heart was always in Fillmore.

Harry was born March 10th, 1941, in Fall River Massachusetts. After the loss of his parents at a young age, he was raised by his aunt Louise Finucci. In 1959 after graduating from high school, Harry joined the army. He served in the 82nd Airborne with the 501 infantry division. Harry received an honorable discharge on March 31st, 1965. After leaving the army, Harry packed his bag and headed to California with an army buddy, and fell in love with the weather and the beach.

Harry then attended CSU Dominguez Hills on the G.I. Bill where he earned his teaching credentials. Harry started his teaching career at our Lady of the Valley Los Angeles, where he coached the middle school boy’s basketball team. They won the Los Angelo’s City Champions in 1975.

Later that year, Jerry Dann hired Mr. Burns to teach and coach at Fillmore Jr. High School. He enjoyed teaching english, history, math, and journalism though one of his great passions was on the court coaching basketball. Later he went on to coach both boys and girls varsity basketball teams for Fillmore High School. In 2009 Coach Burns retired after 34 years of teaching and coaching from Fillmore High with a special group of girls on his varsity team that year.

Mr. Burns was everyone’s favorite teacher. He believed in all of his students, supported their ambitions and taught them many important life lessons as well. He held all of his student dear to his heart, keeping many thank you notes over the years. One reading “If it weren’t for great teachers like you, there wouldn’t be grateful students like me!”

Along with his many achievements in athletics Mr. Burns was also very passionate about teachers rights and was an active member of the Fillmore Unified Teachers Association for 33 years. He served as president 6 times, vice president 4 times, grievance chair 6 times, charter member and writer of the first contract for 1978-79. He was proudly known as the “Union Man” among his colleagues.

His golden years were spent traveling, spending time with his friends and family, and watching his grandchildren play sports as he was their biggest fan.

Harold J. Burns is survived by his wife Yvonne Burns, step daughter Dana Schlossberg, brother in-law Eric and wife Christine Koenig.

He is also survived by his first wife Amelia Burns, their daughter Carina and husband Eric Crawford, and their son Casimiro and wife Jessica Burns; their grandchildren Kasey, Dylan, Porsche, Alexander, Madison and Asher; their great grandchildren Anastasia and Theodore.

A Celebration of Life for our beloved Dad, Grandpa, Husband, Friend, Teacher, Coach and Colleague will be held on Saturday, March 9th at 1pm at the Bardsdale United Methodist Church in the Labard Hall; 1498 Bardsdale Ave Fillmore Ca, 93015.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in honor of Mr. Burns to the Fillmore Alumni Association.

Cruz Martin Munoz (April 1946 – August 2023)

Cruz Martin Munoz known as Martin passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on August 14th, 2023. Martin was born on April 28th, 1946 and was the second oldest of seven children to John and Lydia Munoz. Martin grew up in the city of Fillmore where he attended Fillmore High school and participated in track, basketball, and football. He graduated in 1965.

Martin joined the United States Army in 1966, during his service for our country, he severed in Vietnam. Martin was a Vietnam Veteran. After returning from the war, he worked at General Motors and then joined the Laborer’s Union and then went to work for the family business Munoz Pipe Company where the Munoz family provided irrigation services to local agriculture industries for their crops. Martin eventually was hired as a Maintenance worker for the City of Fillmore where he worked his way up to the Public Works Supervisor until his well-deserved retirement.

Martin loved a good old western movie and enjoyed his time fishing the lakes and rivers in the Eastern Sierras. Martin had a love for USC football and was a die-hard Rams fan. Martin enjoyed furthering his knowledge of American History, he could be found in his recliner browsing the internet keeping up on sport stats and news around the world.

Martin is proceeding in death by his parents John and Lydia Munoz, sisters Anne Marie Griffin and Terri Munoz. He is survived by his wife Betty Munoz, daughters Kimberly (Robert) Herrera, Amanda (David) Montes and Brandi Carrillo and sons Michael (Kimberly) Munoz and Robert Molina. Grandchildren Kyara, Robert, Nathan, Cristian, Julissa, David, Jacob, Jasmine, Aryanne, Cruz, Taylor, and Faith. Great grandchildren Jocelyn, Paisley, and Addison. Brothers John and Peter Munoz and sisters Martha Vargas and Kathy Meza and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Martin will be held on September 25th at 11am at the Bardsdale Cemetery with a celebration of life to follow. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local Veteran group.
Martin’s smile will be missed by all that knew him.

John F. Scoles (June 1941 – August 2023)

With profound gratitude for the life he shared with us, with deep sorrow at his passing, the family of John Francis Scoles informs of his death on August 14, 2023, at home in Fillmore, California.

John was born to George and Kathleen Donohue Scoles of Fillmore on June 30, 1941, in Oxnard, California. His parents and older sister, Barbara Scoles Agler, predeceased him.

John graduated from Fillmore High School Class of 1959, and from Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon, in 1963. He played scholarship football at OSU for Coach Tommy Prothro and was on the team that played in the Liberty Bowl in 1963. John served in the US Army at the Presidio in San Francisco, and in Japan from 1966-1968.

John met Kelly Collins at McGeorge Law School in Sacramento, California, and they married in Sacramento on January 2, 1972, after his graduation, despite the fact that she had lost his Liberty Bowl watch somewhere in San Francisco.
He passed the Bar Exam and joined the office of Joseph P.D. Kern, and then Arthur Taylor for nearly 40 years in the practice of law in what eventually became Taylor, Scoles, and Bartels. John was fortunate in his many travels abroad for clients, and in his remarkable secretaries and law partners.

Their daughter, Mary Caitlin Scoles, was born in Ventura, California, in 1978, and was the light of her father’s life.
He is a former past president of the Fillmore Chamber of Commerce and Rotary International and was very pleased to be elected to the Fillmore High School Sports Hall of Fame and the OSU 1963 Team Hall of Fame.

Following a Mass of Christian Burial at Mission Santa Ines on September 13, John was inurned near his parents in the old Oak Hill Cemetery in Ballard in his maternal ancestral home, the Santa Ynez Valley, as was his wish.

He is survived by his wife, Kelly Collins Scoles, daughter Caitlin (Marv Stainbrook), granddaughter Marin Eileen, nieces Anne Agler Mercer (Del) and Carolyn Agler Porter (Adam), and the large Collins family of in-laws, nieces, and nephews. May perpetual light shine upon him.

Ernest J. “Ernie” Morales (March 1935 – August 2023)

Ernest J. “Ernie” Morales, 88, beloved husband, father, friend and trailblazing Hispanic leader, died Sunday, August 13th, 2023 surrounded by his loving family following a brief illness. A pillar of the Fillmore community, his humble and compassionate leadership has inspired countless individuals in the county and throughout the state. Born in Fillmore on March 18th, 1935, Ernie attended local schools where he excelled as a student-athlete. A standout baseball and basketball player at Ventura College, he earned an Associate’s Degree before continuing his studies at San Jose State University. An avid sports aficionado, he was a lifelong fan of Notre Dame football, the Los Angeles Rams and the Chicago Cubs. Ernie was a proud U.S. Army veteran, serving in Alaska before returning to marry his beloved wife of 62 years, Rebecca “Becky” Sosa of Rancho Sespe. As a Project Analyst for the U.S. Navy, he earned numerous accolades during his 31-year career as a federal civil employee. Ernie was a pioneering leader in the Latino community, serving three terms as Mayor during his 16-year service as a Fillmore City Council member. He served as President of the League of California Cities and was leader of numerous church and community organizations. A Fourth Degree Knight, Ernie founded the St. Francis of Assisi Chapter of the Knights of Columbus where he was a tireless and principled advocate of those less fortunate.

Ernie is survived by his wife, Becky and their three children, Jeff (Kimberly), Brian (Kristi) and Michelle. He is also survived by his sister Sonia Morales Getty (Gene) and six grandchildren, Sofia, CJ, Gabriel, Finn, Luke and Stella. Their “extended” family includes countless adoring relatives, godchildren, old friends and mentees who continue to be inspired by their loving guidance. Ernie will be welcomed to eternal joy by his parents, Georgia and Frank “Pancho” Morales, his sister Frances “Pancha” Morales Jimenez and brother Joseph Morales. Ernie was a man of remarkable grace, compassion, intellect, humility, dignity and wit, a living example of the Christian values he held so close to his heart.

A rosary will be held on Friday, September 29th at 9:30am at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Fillmore, followed by a Catholic Mass at 10:00am. Private interment will be held at Bardsdale Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be sent to the Fillmore High School Mariachi Band, “Los Rayos” c/o of the Fillmore High School Alumni Association.

David Villaseñor (May 1945 – August 2023)

David Villaseñor passed peacefully in his sleep on August 11, 2023. David was the oldest of nine children born to Herculano and Enriqueta Villaseñor. In his youth, David served as an altar boy at the old St. Francis Church on Central Ave., was active in Boy Scouts and played the accordion. He joined the United States Air Force and received an honorable medical discharge in December 1968 as a Sargent. As a young man, David was generous with is younger siblings, and bought gifts for his sisters when he was able.

David met his wife Sharon Horn Villaseñor at Sawyer Business School and the two were married on July 7th, 1973 at St. Francis. David and Sharon celebrated 49 years of marriage together before Sharon’s passing earlier this year.
David worked at Camarillo State Hospital in Human Resources for over 20 years, and he was very active in his St. Francis of Assisi Parish, or as Sharon would call it “The Holy Land”. Whether it was organizing bingo night, helping with the altar servers or helping count weekly collections, David was a fixture at St. Francis for many years. David and Sharon were very much inseparable for their nearly fifty years together. They enjoyed taking part in Fillmore High School Alumni reunions and special events and enjoyed eating out around town and taking trips, including summertime visits to family in Texas, Mexico, several national parks, including Yosemite, one of David and Sharon’s favorite places, and once-in-a-lifetime trips to Niagara Falls and Graceland. David was an avid photographer and enjoyed taking many photos during their travels and at family events.

David prided himself on being a disabled Veteran and kept up on Veteran affairs throughout his life. He enjoyed gatherings with his Villaseñor siblings, his Horn family and his many nieces and nephews on both sides and eventually their children. David will be greatly missed, but his family and friends find comfort in him being reunited with his sweetie Sharon.
He is preceded in death by his wife Sharon, his parents Herculano and Enriqueta Villaseñor, his brother Louie Villasenor, nephew Alex Villaseñor and niece Stacey Richey. He is survived by his sister-in-law Pauline Villaseñor, brothers Ricky (Chris) Villaseñor, Victor (Ana Rosa) Villaseñor, Andy (Joanne) Villaseñor, Albert (Christina) Villaseñor and sisters Becky (Alex) Zuart, Quina (Rick) Wilson and Judy (Alfonso) de la Torre and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the staff at Fillmore Country Club for their care and attention to David and Sharon and Angels of Mercy Hospice for their care of David in his last weeks. Funeral services will begin at 9am on Friday, September 15th 2023 at San Salvador Mission Church in Piru, follow by internment at Bardsdale Cemetery, and a luncheon reception at the St. Francis of Assisi Parish Hall. In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church: 1048 West Ventura St. Fillmore, CA 93015, (805) 524-1306 and Gold Coast Veterans Foundation: 4001 Mission Oaks Blvd, Suite D, Camarillo, CA 93012 (805) 482-6550 (EIN # 27 2105467).

Susan Elizabeth (Schleimer) Morales (August 1952 – August 2023)

Susan Elizabeth (Schleimer) Morales was born on August 10, 1952, in Santa Paula, California, to John “Jack” and Melba “Jeri” Schleimer. Adored by her older brother John, she was the perfect caboose to their family of four. Sadly, after a brief illness, Susan passed away August 17, 2023.

As a little girl growing up in Southern California, Susan loved curling her hair with soda cans, wearing white lipstick, while singing to Diana Ross and the Supremes, pretending the hairbrush in her hand was her microphone. She grew up attending Trinity Episcopal Church in Fillmore, spent many Sunday afternoons hiking to the “F” or along Pole Creek, and sliding down the hill on cardboard behind the family home with “the gang.”

Susan was part of the Fillmore High School “Flashes” Class of 1970. She loved keeping in touch with her classmates and attending class reunions. Susan had amazing legs and was known for kicking the highest in all her song leading routines. She loved cheerleading, song leading, dressing up for dances, and pulling into the high school parking lot while driving her big brother’s Volkswagen. However, not everything came easy for Susan at Fillmore High. No matter how hard she tried, she detested her Spanish class because she couldn’t roll her “R’s” like the rest of the students.

Susan had a persistent work ethic which she learned from her parents. Her first job was at the Plunge, Fillmore’s public swimming pool. She started handing out towels the first year, but quickly became the lifeguard where she would not only ensure pool safety but work on that bronze tan that became her signature trademark for years to come. Susan loved the water so much she took it upon herself to teach nearly every one of her grandchildren how to swim in her pool.

After high school, Susan secured employment at Magic Mountain at a quaint ice-cream shop where she earned money to pay for her college classes at San Diego State. While living on a college budget, money was tight, and on more than one occasion Susan could be seen hitch hiking to San Diego State in bib overalls.

Susan spent more than 30 years as a mail carrier and postal employee with the United States Postal Office. Her service included lengthy stints at the Fillmore and Mariposa Post Office. It was an honest living, but certainly never measured up to the standards of her dream job. Susan was an avid outdoor enthusiast and enjoyed camping at Rincon Beach Park with her parents. She loved laying out on the beach or Piru Lake. Sunbathing became her obsession and anyone who knew her immediately noticed her golden, glowing, sun-kissed skin

Susan first met Gilbert Morales at the Cruise on Main Street in Merced on Halloween Night in 2002 wearing a “Santa’s Little Helper” outfit. Gilbert asked her: “How is Mrs. Santa’s Little Helper doing tonight?” She replied “everything is fine.” And the rest was history!

In June 2012, after more than a decade of dating, Susan married her sweetheart and love of her life, Gilbert. They loved traveling to Hawaii and Mexico, sipping on margaritas, dancing, and Sunday drives in Gilbert’s 1966 Corvette. Their homes and gardens were always spectacular, the perfect home for hosting gatherings and raising their beloved schnauzer Bentley and goldendoodle Lexi.

Susan never passed up a tall glass of white wine or a Bloody Mary with Gilbert, loved all things gardening, needle pointing, Bruno Mars band, and watching cooking and game shows on the big screen.
There is so much Susan will be remembered for, including her famous sugar cookies with secret recipe frosting, homemade strawberry jam and eggs benedict. She was a member of the Merced Garden Club where her home and garden were on full display annually at the Christmas and Spring Garden Tour. She was known for her green thumb and her relentless attention to detail and cleanliness.

Susan is survived by her husband, Gilbert, her three children, Ashley Powell, Tyler Dudley, and Caitlin Czirban, and her nine grandchildren Hayden, Brooklyn, Kinley, Taytem, Tanner, Tristan, Merick, Pyper, and Tate.
A Celebration of Her Life will be held Saturday, October 28 at the Vista Ranch Winery in Merced, CA (7326 East Highway 140) starting at 11am - 3pm. If you wish to remember Susan with a donation, please make it in her name to the Merced Garden Club, attn: Judy Smith, 2181 Almondwood Lane, Merced, CA, 95340.

Felipe Valencia Avila (August 1934 – August 2023)

Felipe Valencia Avila (August 15, 1934 - August 24, 2023) With great sadness we announce the loss of Felipe Valencia Avila, beloved father and spouse of Jennie Hernandez Avila on August 24th, 2023, in Fillmore, California. He was surrounded by his seven children and spouse Jennie Hernandez Avila of 69 years. Felipe was born on August 15th, 1934, in Ventura, California. He was the 3rd of 10 siblings. He was a wonderful father to Phillip Avila (Alma), Yolanda Avila (Luis), Frank Avila, Margie Avila, Marylou Rodriguez (Jorge), Jess Avila & Rosalind Manzano (Florencio) and grandfather to 30 Grandchildren, 66 Great-Grandchildren and 12 Great-Great Grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his father & mother Salvador & Jesus Avila, Brothers Jesus Gomez, Chono, Danny, Valdemar & Raul Avila and sisters Alicia Moreno & Josefina Avila. He is survived by his brothers Roy and Salvador Avila and sister Maria Eugenia Avila. Our Father worked hard all his life, 38 of those years at Hardison Ranch AKA “La Campana” as a laborer. His bosses always found favor with him. Our father had every kind of fruit planted in our yard. He tended his gardens daily after a hard day of work. He taught himself how to read and write and would spend every day reading The Star Free Press. He also taught himself how to play the guitar and spent weekends playing the guitar and singing his favorite songs by “Pedro Infante” with his brothers. He was informed politically of what was going on in our nation. He had a strong work ethic that he passed on to his children. He was a kind, generous loving man, who shared whatever he had. The lord blessed him to help others in times of need. Our father, our role model, our hero, our everything, we love you Dad forever into eternity, until we meet again. We want to give a special thank you to Margie Pichardo, his Great-Granddaughter for the special and loving care she gave to our dad. Margie is our angel in scrubs.

A Viewing will be held on Thursday, September 7th, 2023, at Faith Community Church, 355 D Street, Fillmore, CA 93015 at 8:30am, with a Celebration of Life Service to begin at 9:00am. A Graveside Services will follow at Bardsdale Cemetery, 1698 S. Sespe St., Fillmore, CA 93015 at 11:00am.

For map, direction to ceremony location, to sign the family’s online guest book, share stories, and post pictures please visit www.garcia mortuaryoxnard.com and click on Felipe’s name below “Obituaries.”

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the family owned and operated Garcia Mortuary, 629 south “A” street, Oxnard, California. For further information please call (805) 486-9148.

Samuel Ralph Bennett (December 1942 – August 2023)

Samuel Ralph Bennett, known by his loved ones as Sam, passed away on August 20, 2023 at the age of 80 in Fillmore, CA. Born on December 6, 1942 in Fillmore, Sam was hard-working and generous and deeply loved his family, friends and pets. He had a passion for WWII history, enjoyed watching classic movies and westerns on TV, and spent many fall Saturday afternoons engrossed in college football.

Sam is survived by his wife of 49 years, Sharon, his sons Sam Bennett Jr. (Paige), Donald Bennett (Lori), and Paul Bennett (Stephanie) and twin daughters Jamie Grossman (Dan) and Jennifer Klein (Bart). He is also survived by his step- daughters, Katherine Hadley (Dale) and Susan Herrmann (Ralph) and nephew Jonathon Zavala. Grandchildren AJ, Alyssa, April, Ashley, Branden, Cameron, Carsen, Eleanor, Emma, Hendrick, Kyle, Meghen, Paul, Samantha, Samuel, Sierra, Summer and Tim and several great grand-children, sisters Nancy Carrillo and Penny Zavala, and brothers Robert Kozar and John Kozar. Sam was preceded in death by his parents Ralph Bennett and Connie Kozar, grandparents Walker and Emma Legan, and brother Walker Kozar.

Sam was a life-long resident of the Santa Clara Valley and graduated from Fillmore High School in 1961. For over 50 years, he served as a General Contractor, Heavy Equipment Operator, and Business owner. Sam worked on numerous roads, development projects, ranches and public works throughout Ventura County and California. He also contracted with the U.S. Forest Service for over 30 years, fighting wildfires and assisting with emergencies. Sam felt lucky in that he found his true calling while learning to drive a tractor at the age of 6 while working on the family’s ranch. He never stopped working and continued to operate a tractor at the age of 80, a testament to his unwavering dedication and the joy he found in his work.

In his free time, Sam found joy in barbequing for his family and friends, driving around Fillmore and indulging in his love for high school and college football. He loved sharing stories of his life, growing up in Fillmore and reminiscing about the “good ole days”. He also enjoyed fishing at Gull Lake and finding solace in the Eastern Sierra.

Funeral services for Sam will be held on September 8, 2023 at 10:00am at Perez Family Funeral Home in Fillmore. A graveside service will follow at Bardsdale Cemetery, with a Celebration of Life to follow. In his memory, contributions can be made to the Fillmore High School Alumni Association and the St. Bonaventure High School Alumni Association, schools that held a special place in his heart. Special thanks to Becky, Cinnamon and Iliana at Greenfield Care Center for their wonderful care and kindness these past few months. We will forever be grateful.

Sam will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Minnie Ybarra (September 1929 - August 2023)

Born in El Rio to Lena Estrada, her mother, and Benjamin C. Herrera, her father. Minnie graduated from Santa Paula High School. She married the love of her life, Woody Ybarra, from Fillmore. They married in December, New Year’s Eve, 1949. They both for a time worked at the Naval Base in Port Hueneme and had their first baby. They then decided to work closer to home. She loved volunteering in the community and being an active member of PTA for her children. When all three of their children were in school Minnie began working for the Fillmore Unified School District. She worked for the Migrant program and was passionate and caring to help all parents become active participants in their children’s education. Minnie continued working as one of the secretaries for Sespe School in Fillmore. She was very helpful above and beyond her regular job. Minnie was the one to reach out and help others to make things right. As a mother, she guided us to do what was right and to help toward the goodness of all people. She worked with the police department and began what was known as The Block Parent Program in Fillmore. Later on she became involved in the Neighborhood Watch program. She lost her mom at an early age and she could never do enough to help children in need.

Minnie enjoyed her family first and foremost. She loved telling stories. She often read stories for the Fillmore Library which she enjoyed. It became a summertime ritual to have neighborhood children at our house for story time. She was a natural at this and always had a captivating ability for attention. Minnie, loved interacting with our neighbors in Los Serenos. She’d make homemade tortillas and shared them with the kids spreading butter onto the freshly made tortillas that smelled and tasted delicious!!!

Minnie loved her family. She and Woody were blessed with three children, five grandchildren, and later nine great grandchildren. After moving to Ventura they enjoyed taking their grandchildren to school and picking them up. Especially enjoyed attending the sports games, band concerts and any other events that were important to their grandchildren and eventually for great grandchildren. She loved watching people, sitting on the porch, and visiting.
Minnie’s blessings were all who cared for her to the very end and her Woody! She was loved and respected for her wisdom and faith that guided her throughout her life. She will be missed.

A special thank you to Livingston Hospice for their recent help at home and all who cared for Minnie.
Woody, her husband, and daughter Evie preceded her in death; they were always in her heart.

She is survived by her daughter Barbara Leija (husband Ernie), and her son Robert Ybarra. Her grandchildren Elizabeth Mason (husband Chris), Robert Grosfield Jr., Eric Leija (Jeannette), Jeremy Leija (wife Cynthia), Matthew Ybarra (wife Taryn) and great grandchildren, Michael and Christopher Giordano, Conner and Claire Mason, Ashlee and Rylan Ybarra, Eric Leija Jr., and Aleena, and Juliana Leija.

She cherished all her siblings and their families, close friends, plus all family who preceded her in death. She loved and held dearly in her heart Mrs. Elizabeth Blanchard who also preceded her in death.

A private funeral is planned as were her wishes. A celebration of her life will be held in her honor at a later time.

Senorina Ceballos Gurrola (April 1926 – August 2023)

Senorina Ceballos Gurrola passed away peacefully on August 7, 2023, at the age of 97 in Visalia, California. Senorina had previously lived in Fillmore, California nearly her entire life.

She was born on April 22, 1926 in LaVerne, California to Felix & Julia Ceballos. On July 7, 1954 she married Gregg Gurrola in Los Angeles then moved to Fillmore to live & raise her family. She was devoted to her family and friends.
Senorina loved gatherings, word search puzzles, watching Spanish talk shows and movies, and court case shows, Jeopardy, and Wheel of Fortune. She loved cooking traditional meals like tamales, buñuelos, capirotada, and more. She loved traveling to Vegas and Laughlin with her dear friend, Alice Ortega, and other friends.

Senorina was a very sacred and devoted Catholic, practicing her faith in Fillmore and Visalia.
She is survived by her children: Greg (Paula) & Rose (Tommy), siblings; Andrea Cisneros, Santa Sapien & Lupe Bustillos, grandchildren; Kristen (Tony), Shannon (Pete), Vanessa, Nichole (Justin) & Melody (Bryant), great-grandchildren; Nicholas, Monet, Brooke, Michael, Zane, Emma, Kinza & Brixley. Preceded in death her parents, husband, brothers: Eustaqiuo (Tacho), Roberto & Pedro, sisters: Anastasia Parra, Benita Castillo, Emilia Gutierrez & Filipe Delgado.

A rosary will be recited on Thursday, August 31, 2023 at 9:30am followed by a Funeral Mass at 10am at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 1048 Ventura St, Fillmore, CA 93015. Graveside services immediately to follow at Bardsdale Cemetery, 1698 S Sespe St, Fillmore, CA 93015.

William Thomas Walsh (May 1926 – July 2023)

William Thomas Walsh, also known as Spud, passed away on 31 July 2023 at the age of 97 in Fillmore, CA. He was born on 27 May 1926 in Fillmore, CA to Thomas Henry Walsh and Ruth Jorgenson.

He was married to Annette Marie Garrison on 21 May 1950, and she passed away on 29 Sep 1956. They had 3 children, Toni, Kathleen, and Michael. On 6 May 1961 he married Joan Marie Manheim and unfortunately, she passed away on 1 Oct 2019.

Spud quit Fillmore High School at the end of his Junior year and enlisted into the U.S. Navy on his 18th birthday which was 27 May 1944 and served until 27 May 1947. During his time in the Navy, he completed 6 weeks of Basic Training at the Naval Training Center in San Diego. After completion he was assigned to the USS Whitley (AKA-91) stationed in Oakland, CA. During his entire time in the Navy, he was attached to the USS Whitley which sailed towards Iwo Jima. During this cruise the USS Whitley arrived offshore at dawn on 19 February 1945 and became involved in fourth assault wave on the island and five days later 23 February 1945 they witnessed the raising of the American flag from the deck of the Whitney. Seaman First Class Walsh was assigned as a crewman to one of the LCM Boats and went ashore on Iwo Jima. Each time he went ashore it was to recruit Marines to help retrieve needed equipment stuck in the black volcanic sand beach. The USS Whitney remained offshore for eight days and her only brush with combat came on the night of February 23rd and 24th when her anti-aircraft battery briefly and inconclusively engaged two Japanese aircraft. After Iwo Jima Spud remained a crewman but held other collateral jobs aboard as the ship’s projectionist for the many movies shown in the mess hall aboard ship to entertain the sailors while sea. He was also assigned as the ships Postmaster the job that he enjoyed the most. After leaving Iwo Jima on 27 February 1945 the USS Whitley joined a convey bound via the New Hebrids for the Guadalcanal and stopped at Espiritu Santo 15 March for the embarking of the Royal New Zealand Air Force for transportation to Guadalcanal. After which they exchanged the New Zealanders for a group of Hawaii-bound Marines. The USS Whitney arrived back to Oahu on 16 April 1945 during this period the USS Whitney personnel received the Bronze Star, and the ship received a Battle Star for action at Iwo Jima.

After his discharged from the Navy, he returned to Fillmore to work with his father who owned Tom Walsh Auto Repair. They did a bit of everything from auto repair, repair of radiators and rebuilt batteries. Eventually he took over the business and renamed it Fillmore Auto Electric which he worked for over forty years then closed the business in 1989 and went to work with Dwayne Steel repairing orchard wind machines unit the business closed and then worked for J.E. Kirby at Barnett Trucking until September 1995 when he fell off a trailer at the age of 69 and shattered his left heel at 3 places after 2 years of rehabilitation he officially retired at the age of 71.

As a young man in 1957 and 1958 Spud raced a 1932 Ford Victoria 2 door sedan on an oval dirt track in Carpenteria, CA. The track closed in 1959 but not before Spud was able to win one race at the left turn only banked dirt track which he still had the trophy proudly displayed in his den. In the 1970s Spud was the navigator for Don Barlow in a 1972 Ford Bronco on the grueling Baja 500 mile off road race and he also did some other racing with Saugus Raceway.

He is survived by his sister, Marjorie Bega (Frank) of Rathdrum, Idaho and his three children Toni Techau (Richard) of Fillmore, California, Kathleen (Gordon) Carpenter of Sandy, Utah and Michael Walsh (Jamie) of Las Vegas, Nevada, Spud’s legacy lives on through the lives of his loved ones. He was a cherished grandfather to Rebecca Dunehew, David Walsh, Kevin Hardwick, Katherine Nelson, Amberly Thorson and Mariah Volpe. Additionally, Spud was the proud great-grandfather of 17 great-grandchildren.

Spud’s warm heart, infectious smile, and unwavering love for his family will be deeply missed. His memory will forever be engraved in the hearts and souls of those who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in eternal peace, knowing his duty to his country and his loved ones was fulfilled with honor and devotion.

William D. (Bill) Newsom (May 1933 - August 2023)

Bill Newsom, 90, passed away in the early morning of Aug 2, 2023, while in hospice care at the Mount San Antonio Gardens Retirement Community in Pomona, CA.

Bill was born in Whittier on May 20, 1933, to Irene and Vernon Newsom. Bill grew up on the family citrus farm in Santa Fe Springs, CA. He attended Whittier High School (Class of 1951) and went on to Whittier College and USC for his Business degrees. In Aug 1957, he married Margaret (Peggy) Parker of Alhambra and had three children; Jay, Janna, and Jon. Bill spent a full career in the Grocery Business in Human Resources and Industrial Relations. Bill and Peggy spent their lifetime together in Whittier raising their 3 children.

Development of the 605 Freeway would route it through the middle of the Newsom Family Farm in Santa Fe Springs. In March 1956, Vernon Newsom purchased a 48-acre Avocado and Citrus farm on Telegraph Road in Fillmore, on the property now occupied by the Mountain View Apartments and the Bridges Housing Development.

After Bill’s retirement and the death of his father, he assumed operations on the family farm in Fillmore. Every week (Monday thru Wednesday) Bill would drive from his home in Whittier to Newsom Ranch. In 2001, housing developers acquired the Newsom Ranch property and Bill subsequently purchased a 45-acre citrus farm “across the Santa Clara River” on Guiberson Road; home to Newsom Ranch today.

In addition to farming, Bill remained active throughout his lifetime; boating, camping, RVing, water skiing, snow skiing, tennis, pickle ball, and extensive travel around the globe with wife Peggy.

Bill loved his farm and his Fillmore home 3-days a week. It was his getaway every week. He looked forward every morning to sharing coffee with “the locals” at AgRx; this is where you get the local scoop and solve the world’s issues every morning. Every 2nd Monday of the month, Bill looked forward to sharing dinner and stories at Fillmore Club. He would rarely miss a Fillmore Club dinner. So many more Fillmore experiences can be shared which comforted him to the end of his life journey. Bill remarked at the end that “he lived a good long life with no regrets”. A life well led indeed.

The family of Bill Newsom thanks the good people of Fillmore for welcoming him as one of your own on his 3-day getaway to Newsom Ranch every week.

Dora Chretin De Sanchez (February 1933 – Month 2023)

With a very heavy heart, we announce the passing of Dora Chretin De Sanchez. Dora was born on February 2, 1933 in Sinaloa to Juan and Maria Del Carmen Chretin. In her teens, she and her 5 Chretin sisters relocated to California. She met Gabriel Sanchez, who later became her husband. Dora and Gabe were blessed with three children: DiDi, Maxie and Gabriel (Booty), followed by 11 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.

Dora was happiest when she was surrounded by family, friends and those who loved her. She had a true passion for life. Our family queen was selfless, generous, loving and always the life of every party.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Gabriel Sanchez and her beloved son, Gabriel Sanchez II.

Rosary and viewing will be held on Wednesday August 9th at The Conejo Mountain Funeral Home in Camarillo from 6pm- 9pm. Mass will be held on August 10th at St. Francis of Assisi Church at 10am followed with the burial at the Bardsale Cemetery. A reception will follow in the church hall.

Mary Ann Fawcett (January 1933 - April 2023)

The family of Mary Ann Fawcett of Fillmore, California, announces that, on April 29, 2023, at the age of 90, a special daughter went home to be with her Heavenly Father. On January 3, 1933, a gift from God was born to Helen Anita Brown Weddell and Ian Strathallen Weddell in Jamaica Long Island, New York. The family moved to Glendale, California, soon after her birth.

Mary Ann went to Mark Keppel Elementary School, Toll Middle School, attended acting classes, appeared in a Hollywood movie, and graduated from Herbert Hoover High School in Glendale. She then attended Occidental College in the Eagle Rock area of Los Angeles, where in June of 1955, she graduated with a degree in Education and a Lifetime Teaching Credential.
In her junior year of college, on a blind date, she met Herbert Roy Fawcett. He had recently been discharged from his Naval service in the Korean War. This started a 70 year romance including 68 years of marriage. Herbert married Mary Ann on June 25, 1955. After their honeymoon that included San Francisco and Lake Tahoe, they moved to Inglewood, California. Mary Ann taught Kindergarten in Inglewood while putting her husband through UCLA undergrad then USC dental school. The couple moved to Fillmore, California, in July 1961, where she spent the rest of her blessed life.

Soon after moving to Fillmore, two children were born—Diane Elizabeth in 1962 and Herbert Brian in 1964.Mary Ann was a homemaker who continued her teaching career part time. She helped set up San Cayetano’s school library, was a substitute teacher for different grade levels, worked in the kindergarten classes at Sespe school as a scheduled substitute for a specialized program, helped kindergarten students in a pull out program, and taught and tested English language learners. She retired from the Fillmore Unified School District in June of 2000.

Mary Ann was raised in and became a member of St. Marks Episcopal Church in Glendale and then became a member and raised her family at Trinity Episcopal Church in Fillmore. She taught Sunday school, vacation Bible school, and was a lay reader for 20 years. Her Christian faith was evident in her love of family and kindness to others.

Mary Ann was a member of the Ebell Club, P.E.O., and a women’s bridge club. She was a talented public speaker who did many programs of memorized recitations for different local organizations. Throughout her life she enjoyed reading, travel trailering—with a special summer trip to Canada, flying model airplanes with her husband, antique shopping, entertaining, belonging to a couples bridge group, going to movies and plays, and dining out.

Mary Ann was preceded in death by her parents, her brother—Robert Brown Weddell, and her niece—Sally Ann Weddell. She is survived by her husband, two children, daughter in law—Rashidi Fawcett, and three grandchildren—Herbert Hudson Fawcett, Shelby Ann Oatis, and George Andrew Oatis.

Her family wishes to thank all those who helped make her life such a joy. We are especially thankful for the loving care she received from Fillmore Country Club Assisted Living, Angels of God Hospice, and the Perez Family Funeral Home.
“We thought of you today but that is nothing new.

We thought about you yesterday and the days before that too.
We think of you in silence, we often speak you name.
All we have are memories and your picture in a frame.
Your memory is a keepsake from which we’ll never part.
God has you in His arms, we have you in our heart.”

Helen A. Martinez (July 1928 – June 2023)

Helen A. Martinez of Fillmore, CA peacefully passed away surrounded by her family and friends on June 17, 2023. She was born in El Paso, Tx. July 31, 1928 to Francisco and Maria Armendariz. She met and married Edward Martinez on September 1st and spent 62 years living in Piru and Fillmore with their 7 sons. Helen was a constant presence in the catholic church teaching catechism, she was a devoted wife and mother, loved her grandkids and being with friends. Briefly she worked in the Fillmore and Piru packing house. We always knew that beans would be a constant staple in her home or how mad she was that day by how hot her chili con carne was.

Helen is proceeded in death by her husband Edward, sons Edward Jr, Johnny, Robert, Kenny, and grandson Vince Martinez Jr. She is survived by her sons Vince Martinez (wife Chris) of El Monte, Adrian (wife Marisa) of Fillmore, and Marc (wife Stella) of Fillmore. Fifteen grandkids, 33 great grandkids, and 14 great-great grandkids. We are comforted in knowing that she is in a better place with the family that is waiting for her in heaven. “If the people we love are stolen from us, the way to have them live on is to never stop loving them”…we will miss you terribly…until we see you again!
A Rosary will be recited at 9:30a.m. on Monday, July 10, 2023 with a Memorial Mass to follow at 10:00a.m. at St. Francis Of Assisi Church, 1048 W. Ventura St. Fillmore, CA. 93015. Interment to follow at Bardsdale Cemetery, 1698 S Sespe St. Fillmore, CA. 93015.

To sign the family’s online guestbook, share stories and post pictures please visit our website, www.santapaula funeralhome.com and click on Helen’s name located in 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

Anita Jane Elkins Bailey September 1929—June 2023

Anita Elkins Bailey, 93, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 12, 2023 at home in Valencia, CA.

Anita was born in Fillmore, on September 19, 1929, to James Gillespie Blaine (J.B.) Elkins and Mary Jane (Evans) Elkins. Anita grew up in Fillmore on the Elkins Ranch and attended Bardsdale Elementary and Fillmore High Schools, graduating in 1947. Anita attended Woodbury University studying Business and was a member of Beta Sigma Phi.

On September 3, 1951, Anita married Edmund (Ted) Bailey in the First Presbyterian Church in Fillmore and they spent almost 62 years of marriage before Ted passed away in 2013.

Anita and Ted spent 15 years in Santa Maria where their children Mary Ellen and Rob were born before relocating to Valencia where the Bailey’s lived for the next 54 years.

Anita worked for Bank of America as well as Elkins Ranch Company, where she served as a Director and Officer for many years. As well as homemaker, her most honored and proudest titles were Mom, Grammy and G-G (Grammy-Great) to her 2 children, 5 grandchildren and 4 great-grands. Family was so important to Anita, and she loved hosting sleepovers with all 5 grandkids together where she passed on the love of games, stories and family values and traditions. She was so very proud of each and every one of them and their many accomplishments.

Anita enjoyed many wonderful historical trips around the U.S., Canada and Europe. One of her favorites was following the entire Oregon Trail from Missouri to Oregon and the trail of the Lewis and Clark Expedition as well as visiting Boston and the entire east coast.

She loved to walk, read, do the daily crossword puzzle and was a Jeopardy whiz!

Anita was preceded in death by her parents Blaine and Mary Jane Elkins, her sisters Margaret (Lloyd) Balden, Dorothy (Edgar) James, brothers Richard (Edith) Elkins and James (Joan) Elkins, as well as her son Rob Bailey.

Anita is survived by her daughter Mary Ellen Bailey Gravel, daughter-in-law Wendy Bailey, brother Lloyd (Barbara) Elkins, grandchildren Kelly (Adam) Bailey, Patrick (Brooke) Bailey and Garrett Bailey, Desiree (Christian) Stevens, Cameron Gravel and great grandchildren Jackson and Colter Bailey, and Charlotte and Luke Stevens, and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 5th at Eternal Valley, Newhall, CA. Burial will immediately follow at 11:00 a.m. at the Bardsdale Cemetery in Fillmore.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Anita’s name to:

The Fillmore Historical Museum https://www.fillmorehistoricalmuseum.org/support-us or

The Fillmore Alumni Association
http://www.fillmorehighalumni.com/donate

Mary Ruth Walker Scurlock (October 1920 – March 2023)

Mary Ruth Walker Scurlock, 102, passed away the morning of March 20, 2023 at home.
Ruth was born October 19,1920 to Henry and Laura Scurlock in Santa Paula. She attended Santa Paula High School and graduated in 1939.

In the 50’s she moved the family to Fillmore and loved it, and with the exception of world travels, never left. If you’ve lived in Fillmore for any length of time you have most likely run across her--her quick wit and sharp memory, maybe at Henry’s, the chamber of commerce, the historical museum, or alumni banquets wearing one of her cardinal red outfits, many local events or maybe Elkins Ranch Golf Course where she was known for making great burgers!
She enjoyed hearing about people as well as sharing stories and could recite details that even those who lived it often forgot about.

She was preceded in death by many. A couple that hit her particularly hard; her son Don E. Imhoof and her youngest grandson Andrew J. Benavidez.
She is survived by her 2 daughters and son, Donna Duval, Gloria Benavidez and Ken Imhoof; 6 grandsons, Mark & Josh Duval, Michael & Patrick Benavidez, Shawn & Ron Imhoof; 2 great-grandsons, Jason & Nathaniel Benavidez; 3 great-granddaughters, Madison & Jacie Imhoof and Brittney Ellington.
She requested no services. The family is asking in lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to the Fillmore Historical Museum.