Beatrice Ruby Chapman (1926-2013)

Beatrice Ruby Butler Chapman died January 24, 2013 at the age of 86 from a lengthy illness. Aunt BB was born on September 25, 1926 in Lone Grove Oklahoma to Samuel Isaac Butler and Katie Christian Butler. She lived in Fillmore for over 70 years and was married to Harvey Chapman for 40 years until his death in 1983.
Aunt BB was preceded in death by her husband, Harvey Chapman, her parents Samuel Isaac and Katie Christian Butler, her siblings Charlie Butler, Dorothy Covel, Aubrey Butler, Clifford Butler, Atheline Barksdale Scott, and JD Butler. She is survived by sisters-in-law Faye Butler and Shirley Butler, as well as numerous nieces and nephews who loved her very much.
During her life she worked for a time at a Fillmore orange packing house and then for over 20 years as a psychiatric technician at the Camarillo State Hospital. Considering that Aunt BB suffered from Alzheimer’s disease the last several years of her life and spent her last eight months at the Fillmore Convalescent Center it is appropriate to note that Aunt BB was described by her supervisor at the Camarillo State Hospital in this way, “Mrs. Chapman, your work has been of high standard at all times. You are alert to the needs and health of your patients.” She was a loving sister-in-law and Aunt who will be greatly missed.
Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, January 31at the Skillin-Carroll Mortuary, 600 Central Avenue, Fillmore. Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, February 1, 2013 at the Bardsdale Cemetery in Fillmore.
The family sincerely thanks Aunt BB’s many caregivers, including those at the Orange Blossom Villa and the Fillmore Convalescent Center who gave her such special care. We would like to give special thanks to the nursing staff and CNAs at the Fillmore Convalescent Center for their compassionate care during the last few days of Aunt BB’s life. A special thanks also to her doctor, Michael Swartout, and staff, especially his nurse Jane. Dr. Swartout, your care for Bea was tremendous and your empathy and advice was greatly appreciated and will not be forgotten. In lieu of flowers the family asks that contributions be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 80 Wood Road #302, Camarillo, CA 93010 in memory of Beatrice Chapman.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Skillin-Carroll Mortuary, Fillmore.

Corrine (Tinnie) Ortega (1951-2013)

Corrine (Tinnie) Ortega, 61 of Fillmore, passed away peacefully after battling a long term illness. Corinne is survived by her husband John Ortega and her daughter Velia Ortega Viveros and husband Gabriel.
She also leaves behind two granddaughters, Tiana 18 and Annika 3, and 1 great-granddaughter Aleesandra 1.
Three sisters, Yolanda Gurrola, Olga Perez, Delia Echeverria, and her brother Juan Gonzales.
Numerous nieces and nephews and many great-nieces and nephews and god-children, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends in the Fillmore and surrounding community.
Corinne graduated from Fillmore High School in 1970.
She worked for Piru School for a number of years and proceeded at the Olga Company.
Corinne loved the outdoors, she would ride her scooter throughout the town where she would spend most of her time with her bird or dog along with her. She was also known as Tinnie… Corinne was loved by many throughout this community, she made many friends. She was the most loving caring, giving and thoughtful person always putting others needs before her own. May she fly with the angels and may she rest in peace . You will be deeply missed. We love you…
Services will be held Friday, February 1st at 12:00pm at the Fillmore Veterans Memorial Building.

Lavonne Janet Deeter (1932-2013)

Lavonne Janet Deeter of Fillmore, passed away at home on January 3, 2013, after a prolonged illness.
Lavonne was born in Summers, Arkansas on October 11, 1932, to Lark and Winnie Whiteley, and was raised in Fillmore since the age of 6.
Lavonne graduated with honors from Fillmore High School in 1950. on February 3, 1951, she married the love of her life, Calvin Deeter, and together they raised two daughters, Debbie and Julie.
During the 1970/1971 school year, Suzanne Le (Lieng Le Phu), a foreign exchange student from South Vietnam, came to live with the Deeters. Suzanne continues to be a part of the family and resides in Toronto, Canada.
She worked at the Bank of America in both Fillmore and Ventura while Calvin was in Korea. Later she worked as a bookkeeper for an oil company in Fillmore. After the birth of their second daughter, she went back to work as an accountant for George Norman, CPA and Bob Russell, CPA in Santa Paula where she worked for many years before retiring in late 1994.
Lavonne was involved with the American Society of Women Accountants for many years, and after retiring volunteered at the Santa Paula Memorial Hospital. She was also a board member of the Fillmore Ebell Club and on the board of the Bardsdale Cemetery.
Lavonne grew up in the Fillmore Methodist Church, and after marrying Calvin was active throughout her life in the First Presbyterian Church of Fillmore, Fillmore Bible Church, Faith Community Church, and most recently the First Presbyterian Church of Santa Paula. She taught Sunday School for many years, was involved in Seafarers and Mariners, hosted many international students, and served on numerous committees and boards, as well as being a deacon over the years.
Lavonne loved the Lord and enjoyed water-skiing, camping, playing bridge, line dancing, traveling, entertaining, and caring for others.
Lavonne is proceeded in death by her parents: her daughter, Debra (Deeter) Patterson; her brother, Burlin Whiteley: and her great grandson Matthew Johnson. She is survived by her husband Calvin, daughter Julie (Deeter) Hackney, her brother Ronnel Whiteley (wife Judith), son-in-law James Brian Patterson. Grandchildren: Charity (Patterson) Chapman (husband Jason), Rebecca (Patterson) Johnson (husband Daniel), Caleb Hackney and Ethan Hackney, sic great grandchildren, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held to celebrate her life on Saturday, January 26, 2013, at 11 a.m. at the Faith Community Church at 461 Central Ave in Fillmore. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favorite charity or American Cancer Society.

Michael Andrew Arias (1959-2013)

Andy Arias of Piru passed away on January 3, 2013 after a lengthy illness. He was born in Santa Paula, California on January 16, 1959. Andy was the fifth of ten children born to Lupe and Eleanor Arias.
Andy attended Piru Elementary School, Fillmore High School & graduated San Jose State. He enjoyed a career in Public Relations in the San Jose Bay area for several years, before returning to Piru.
Andy is survived by his Mother, Eleanor Arias Rangel; Brothers, David, Richard, JJ and John; Sisters, Dee Dee, Monica, Kathy and Melissa; uncle James DeLano; aunt Andrea Hernandez, Carmen DeAlba; numerous, nieces, nephews and cousins. He is preceded in death by his father Lupe & sister Terri.
Mass will be celebrated at San Salvador Church, Piru on Thursday, Jan. 10th at 10 AM. Burial at Piru Cemetery.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Skillin-Carroll Mortuary of Fillmore.

Glen Ray Council (1938-2013)

A loving husband, father, brother, grandpa and great grandpa, uncle and a friend passed away on January 4, 2013, continuing to be a star for his loved ones. Glen was born on January 19, 1938, in Stratford, OK to parents Leo and Rachel Council. At the young age of nine his parents and an older brother, Harold and a younger brother, Joe, moved to Fillmore, CA in 1947. He attended schools in Fillmore. He met his sweetheart, Priscilla Miller, whom he married in 1957. He joined the Air Force in 1956 and served 8 years. He was stationed in Merced, CA, Shreveport, LA, and Anchorage, AK. Glen and Priscilla are the parents of a son, Glen Allen, and a daughter Tern Lynn. grandparents to Niki Ebersofe and husband Mike, Ryan Council, Alyssa Council, Kiefer and DeAndra Quirk, and a great grandson, Jacob Ebersole.
Glen was a computer specialist for the Police and Fire departments for the City of Ventura. He and his wife were members of the Rig Runners camping club. He was an avid bowler and fisherman.
Glen was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Joe, a great grandson Aiden Ebersole, a nephew, Mike Newman, and a brother-in-law, Nick McCarthy.
He is survived by his beloved wife Priscilla, of Ventura, CA, daughter Tern and husband
Shawn Quirk, of Ventura, son, Allen, of Ventura, brother Harold and sister-in-law Jean, of
Fillmore, brother-in-law and sister-in-law Kenny and Janet Miller, of Ventura, sister-in-law and
brother-in-law Marilyn and Roger Atherton of Ojai, and sister-in-law, Judy McCarthy of
Ventura, as well as 4 nieces and 5 nephews and numerous great nieces and nephews.
There will forever be a void in our lives but there will always be a star that shines brighter in the night sky that will watch over us.
Memorial services will held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, January 11, 2013, at the Joseph Reardon
Funeral Home, 757 East Main Street, Ventura, CA.
805-643-8623

Michelle Bishop (1968-2012)

October 4, 1968 – December 28, 2012
Michelle Bishop, age 44 of Fillmore, California and beloved wife of Neal (Spanky) Bishop and mother to daughter Madyson (Mady/Punk), passed away at home on December 28, 2012.
Michelle was born in Odessa, Texas on October 4, 1968 to parents David and Chyrel Hill. Michelle’s family relocated to Fillmore, California when she was 6 years old where she was raised and attended local schools.
Michelle is survived by her loving husband Neal Bishop and the light of her life, daughter Mady, age 10. Michelle’s life revolved around nurturing and raising her beautiful daughter. The bond between them was undeniable to anyone who knows their relationship. Her love for Mady was an incredible thing to witness.
She also leaves behind parents David and Chryel Hill, sister and brother in law Leslie and Robert Silva, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends in Fillmore and surrounding communities.
She was employed by Bank of America for 12 years in Simi Valley until the untimely event of her sudden passing. Michelle leaves behind countless true friends she met while working there.
Michelle had a love for music and it gave her great joy to attend her daughter, nieces and nephews sporting events. She also enjoyed going to the movies and traveling to visit family in Oregon. She was a very giving and thoughtful person, always putting the needs of others in front of her own.
A public viewing will be held at 5-7pm for those who wish to attend on Friday, January 4, 2013 at Skillin Carroll Mortuary located at 600 Central Avenue, Fillmore, California.
Funeral services will be held at 9am Saturday, January 5, 2013 at Skillin Carroll Mortuary. Graveside service will be conducted immediately following the funeral service at Bardsdale Cemetary located at 1698 S. Sespe Street, Fillmore, California.
Condolences may be sent to the Hill/Bishop family at PO Box 391, Fillmore, California 93015.

Walter Jean Taylor (1924-2012)

Walter Jean Taylor died peacefully in his sleep on December 26, 2012. He was born on May 16, 1924 to Walter William and Helen Howe Taylor in Altadena, CA. When Walt was 9 years old, his family moved to Summerland, between Carpenteria and Santa Barbara. It was at this point in his life that Walt’s lifelong passion for the ocean and sailing began.
After graduating from Carpenteria High School in 1942, Walt joined the U.S. Merchant Marines. He served his country during WWII as an engineer aboard several “Liberty” ships—and even had one shot out from under him in the Bering Sea on Christmas Day, 1942.
Following WWII, Walt returned to Santa Barbara and fell in love with Myrna Bartlett. They married on December 18, 1948—and had just celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary 8 days before his death.
As newlyweds, Walt and Myrna moved to Live Oak, CA where he began his long and passionate career as a teacher. In 1953, Walt was hired to teach at Sespe Elementary School in Fillmore. He taught sixth grade until 1965, when Walt became the Principal of Sespe School. Before he retired in 1981, “Mr. Taylor” also served as Principal at San Cayetano Elementary School.
Walt’s love of teaching and his students was obvious. He was a dedicated teacher who instilled a true desire for learning in all the students who were fortunate to pass through his classroom door.
An outdoorsman, who sailed, back-packed, hunted and fished, Walt was also an avid storyteller. He could always be counted on to entertain with a story about subjects ranging from growing up in the Great Depression to stories of how his grandson caught “a monster” fish.
Walt is survived by his wife, Myrna, his children Pam (Pat) and Bart (Annalee), 8 grandchildren, Kimberlee (Jeremy), Gregory, Christopher (Anabella), Colin (Krystal), Bethanna (Joshua), Esther, David, and Violet, and his 3 great-grandchildren, Rowan, Adeline, and Blaze.
A memorial service is being planned for March 30, in Fillmore, at a site to be determined.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the charity of your choice—preferably a charity that benefits education and/or students.

Richard (Rick) Jess Cadena (1943-2012)

Richard Jess Cadena Sr. passed away suddenly at his home in Piru on December 19,2012. Rick was born on July 31st, 1943 to his parents Jesus G. Cadena and Delphina (Molina) Cadena. He is survived by his sons, Richard Jr. and wife Cindy, Michael and wife Michelle, and Joshua. He is also survived by his grandchildren Joshua, David, Janaey, Ricky, Christian, and Cameron. Also survived by Janet Cadena and Jeannie Carter.
Rick worked in the Aerospace industry until retirement, starting out his career with Fortin Plactics, then P.P.G. industries, and finally Llamas Plastics. Rick was an excellent pool player, winning numerous tournaments throughout the area and bringing home many trophies. He was an avid sports fan and diehard Pittsburg Steelers fan until the very end. He will be missed very much.
Visitation will be Thursday, December 27th from 4 – 8pm at Skillin-Carroll Mortuary in Fillmore. Rosary will be recited on December 28th at 11:30am at San Salvador Mission in Piru, with the Funeral Mass at 12:00pm. Burial will be at Piru Cemetery and a reception to follow at the reception hall at San Salvador Mission.

Peter Oliver Coert (1941-2012)

Peter Oliver Coert, age 71, resident of Lake Isabella, suddenly passed away on December 15, 2012, in Santa Paula. Born May 25, 1941, in Bandoeng, Indonesia. He was a resident of Ventura County for 50 years.
Peter was an Electrician Master for 45 years. He enjoyed art and loved to paint oil paint, he also enjoyed, camping, cooking, helping other members of the Electrical union #952. He was also a member of NRA.
He is survived by his wife Bonnie Coert; Children, Shelly Walker of Ardmore, Ok., Debra Burhoe of Fillmore, Tina Follett of Big Bear, Maynard Allen of Washington and Marc Allen of Tacoma, Wash. Grandchildren, Nikki Allen, Eric Leon , Karen Burhoe Wade, Tim Burhoe Jr., Taelor Burhoe, Joshua Walker, Lacie Walker, Ryan Walker. Eight great grandchildren and 5 brothers
Visitation will be held Wednesday, December 19, 2012 at Skillin Carroll Mortuary, Fillmore,CA. Funeral Service will be held Thursday, December 20, 201 at Skillin Carroll Mortuary, with Daniel Hull officiating. Burial will follow at Bardsdale Cemetery, Fillmore, CA
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care of SKillin Carroll Mortuary, 600 Central Ave., Fillmore, CA 93015. 805-525-3391

J.R. (Junior) McMahan (1925-2012)

J.R. (Junior) McMahan, 87, passed away December 4, 2012, while in his sleep at home in Ventura California.
J. R. was born August 9, 1925, in St. Clair County, Alabama to Flora and Cleve McMahan. He was the third of four children, two boys and two girls.
He married Billie Griffith, they raised three children and were blessed with three grandchildren, just this year their first great grand-daughter was born.
In 1961 the family moved to Coalinga, California where he started his long career in the oil industry. In following his career the family moved to Ventura County in 1968 and resided in Fillmore for over thirty years. In 1980 he started McMahan’s Dewaxing Service and ran the company until his retirement in 1990.
One of his greatest joys in life was his family and especially his grandchildren, who he loved to shower with attention. In addition to his family, his second joy was collecting and restoring antique automobiles. Lastly he enjoyed nothing better than playing a good game of cards.
J.R. is survived by his wife Billie, his sister Louise Dethrage of West Virginia; daughter, Lynne Rayburn (John) of Mission Viejo, California, son, Barry McMahan (Paula), Houston Texas, son, Michael McMahan (David Schwabauer), Moorpark California, three grand-daughters, Kinsie, Heidi and Megan and one great grand-daughter, Liberty.
A private family service was held December 8, 2012. Memorials may be made to: Assisted Home Hospice, 4450 Westinghouse Street, Suite 103, Ventura, CA 93003, or your charity of choice.
The family wishes to extend their personal thanks to both Arthur and Jean, his care givers of these last months. Both of them went above and beyond in the level of compassion they showed our father.

Lola May Hurley (1937-2012)

On November 18, 2012, the heavens gained an angel with the passing of our beautiful Mom, Gramma, Great Gramma, and Dear Friend, Lola May Hurley. Mom passed away peacefully with her children, Barbi Rice and Les Winget, by her side, and with Adam and Lisa Hurley with her in their thoughts. Mom’s love and spirit will live on in grandchildren, Jimmy Rice (Brandi), Danielle Ruiz (Gerry), Corina Rice (Michael Park), Nikki Winget, Nicholas and Jasmine Hurley, as well as her great grandchildren, James and Andrew Rice, Benjamin and Luciana Ruiz. Lola’s partner in life, Bob Hurley, passed in June, 2001. Mom’s loss will be dearly felt by her lifetime friends, Bea Summers and Pat Walsh.
Lola May Burson was born March 5, 1937 to Lesley and Florence Burson. Mom was always proud of growing up in Fillmore. The generations continue the legacy of having Grandchildren who are 5th generation Ventura County natives.
Mom graduated from Fillmore High School in 1954, and attended 50+ year reunions. She was a bookkeeper all her working life, starting at Wm. L. Morris Chevrolet, and retiring from Child Development Resources. As a survivor of breast cancer, she gave of herself by working for many years with the American Cancer Society, where she touched the lives of so many. She also volunteered for many years with the Braille Institute of Ventura. She was an active participant in the Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s support groups. Lola was a member of the Ventura Moose lodge, and a proud 50+ year member of the Order of the Eastern Star, as well as a Past Honored Queen of Job’s Daughters.
Mom was the most positive, tolerant person I know, always finding something in a situation to be grateful for. She taught me to be strong, and to celebrate life. She never wanted a sad, serious memorial, so a celebration of Mom’s life will be held on Saturday, December 1, 2012 @ 3:00 PM and a second celebration will be held Saturday, December 8, 2012 at her home, 6020 Fremont Street, Ventura. Please share your memories of her spirit and love by joining us for a potluck – please bring your favorite dish or one that you made for Mom. If you would like to contact me, please email at lives2dance@msn.com or 805-798-2814.
Flowers will fade, but a donation to the American Cancer Society will honor Lola's life.

Pilar Daley (1932-2012)

Pilar Daley of Fillmore passed away in Ventura November 22, 2012 at the age of 80. She was born on May 5th 1932 in El Paso Texas. Pilar was a homemaker who loved her family very much. She was preceded in death by her parents, Manuel and Josefina Terazas and survived by her husband of 52 years, Ralph J. Daley; son Robert Binkley (Maggie), daughters; Nancy Leseberg (Ken), Norma Alarcon (Oscar), Teresa Border (Rick), 12 grandkids and 11 great-grandchildren.

Marcial Lona Martinez (1928-2012)

Marcial Lona Martinez 84, passed away Tuesday, November 13, 2012. He was born October 23, 1928 in Brady, Texas. Marcial grew up in Mexico. When he was old enough, he left home to travel Mexico, before coming back to the U.S. He worked as a farm laborer for over 30 years. Marcial traveled California where there was work. While doing that, he met the love of his life Maria Patino. Together they had three children: Francisco, Rita and Leticia. They settled in Santa Paula to raise their family. Marcial loved to have a good time surrounded by friends and family with lots of food and beer. He loved to watch baseball, especially the Dodgers. He would watch baseball games on two TV sets while listening to Jaime Jarrin on the radio announcing the games in Spanish. He loved to read his newspaper, La Opinion. Every day and night he would read his Bible and prayers.
Marcial is survived by his loving wife of 45 years Maria Martinez from Santa Paula Ca., Daughter’s Rita Avila (Raymond Avila Jr.) of Piru, Leticia Martinez of Santa Paula, stepsons: Antonio Castillo (Estella) of Avenal, Jose Castillo (Felicitas) of Bakersfield, his surrogate son Emilio Jacinto (Tona) of Santa Paula. Grandchildren: Elisha (La Reina), Vanessa, Thalia, and Sofia Avila of Piru. Andrew Martinez, Debra, Selena, and Gabriel Duenas of Santa Paula, and many step-grandchildren.
Marcial is preceded in death by his father and mother, son Francisco Martinez and granddaughter Jessica Avila.
A Memorial service will be held Friday, November 23, 2012 at San Salvador Church in Piru Ca. at 6:00 p.m.

Dale Earl Howard (1934-2012)

Dale Earl Howard passed away on October 27, 2012 from a brief illness. He was born on July 24, 1934 in Omaha, Nebraska. He is preceded in death by his wife Naomi (Snow) Howard. He is survived by his daughters; Kristina and her husband Bill Winters, Karyn and her husband Jim Bowen, Kimberly and her husband Matt Haeber. His grandchildren Amber and her husband Seth Vincent, Hogan, Houston, Hudson, Caleb Haeber, Morgan Bowen and her fiance Aaron Parker, Wyatt, Bailey, Travis and Anthony Bowen; Great-grandchildren Andrew, Ryan and Elizabeth Vincent and Aali Parker. Dale (Sonny) was a great hard working devoted family man. He was married to his loving wife Naomi for 36 years until her passing. Sonny always had a special place in his heart for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They had special names for him- Doff, Grandfather, Papa-er, and Hopper, which he loved. He served in the United States Army at Fort Lewis, Washington. He worked in the oil fields as a construction foreman for Vans Construction, PCI, and the last 20 years of his career he spent working for Torch, supporting offshore operations. His hobbies were welding on heavy equipment, fishing, and woodworking. He also had a great enjoyment for watching TV, the History Channel, all military shows and the Price Is Right and many more. Sonny will be dearly missed by family and friends. Graveside services were held on Thursday, November 1, 2012 at 1:00 pm at Bardsdale Cemetery. An online guestbook can be found at www.taylorsfamilychapel.com Arrangements are under the direction of Taylor's Family Chapel in Winston, Oregon (541) 679-6983.

John Albert Perez (1926-2012)

John Albert Perez, 86, of Fillmore, California, passed away Sunday, October 7, 2012. He was born in San Antonio, Texas to Juan Alberto and Ruth Castillo Perez. John was the eldest of seven children. He grew up in Detroit and then lived and worked for many years in Dearborn, Michigan. He moved to Fillmore in 1980 where he worked as an an Instructional Aide in both Fillmore Junior High and Fillmore High School until he retired in 1992. After two previous marriages, in 1982 John married Luanne Hebner Ellison, the Home Economics and Art teacher at Fillmore Junior High School.
John was passionate about being an adventurous eater and cooking for the family. He loved to dance whether it was square dancing or dancing out on the town. He was enthusiastic about keeping up-to-date with the news of the world and actively followed every championship boxing match. John was attentive to maintaining the home he shared with his wife of 30 years and was eager to make a lasting contribution through his work at the school and through his church. He was a card-carrying teamster who loved to talk about politics and never missed an opportunity to discuss the issues of the day or vote for his candidate or issue.
John and Luanne became dedicated travelling partners during their entire marriage, going on trips during every school break and vacation. This same plan intensified in their retirement years with the agreement to go some place for at least two nights, every month.
Most of all, John was a quiet man with a soul full of wisdom and a positive attitude toward life.
He is survived by his wife, Luanne Hebner Perez and son, John Albert Perez, Jr. (Montebello, CA) and three stepsons, Steven Bruce Ellison (Reno, NV), Jeffrey Brian Ellison (Mesa, AZ) and Theodore Scott Ellison (Oakland, CA) plus his four brothers Ralph, Edward, John, and Henry Perez and the rest of his very large number of Perez relations, most of whom still reside in Michigan.
Donations in his honor may be made to Bardsdale Methodist Church, 1498 Bardsdale Avenue, Fillmore, CA 93015, for the planting of roses in a small garden dedicated to John.

Luisa "Licha" Zavala (1923-2012)

August 25, 1923-October 27, 2012
Luisa “Licha” Zavala was a beautiful woman, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and soon to be a great- great grandmother. She was the Matriarch of the ZAVALA family. She was born in Wilmington, Ca on August 25, 1923 and raised in Tijuana, BC. She met, and fell in love with our father Jesus Solis Zavala and they were married on January 11, 1943 . They moved their family to Piru where she raised her 8 children. She worked for Olga Bra Factory in Fillmore, where she made many dear friends. Our mom created a warm and loving home for her children, and grandchildren.
Licha was a devoted Catholic she had a great love for God, was very active at San Salvador Catholic Church, was a member of the Sacred Heart Society and loved to pray the Rosary. She had an incredible sense of humor, she loved to crochet, cook, work in her garden, play bingo, shop, and travel to Las Vegas. But most of all she loved having her family gather in her home.
Mom was the backbone and enduring strength of our family and left to cherish her memories are her eight children: Hess (Joy) Zavala, Victor Zavala, Gloria Davalos, Gabriel Zavala all of Piru, Gilbert (Irene) Zavala of Exeter, Tommy (Martha) Zavala of Fillmore, Rosie (Salvador) Hurtado of Piru and Martha (Steve) Hope of Fillmore. 17grandchildren, 22 great- grandchildren, 1 great grandchild to be born in February and 2 great- great grandchildren to be born in November & February. Licha is also survived by her brother, George Hernandez (Dora) of San Pedro; Sister Eduarda Hernandez of Tijuana and numerous nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind dozens of lifelong devoted friends and Compadres. Because of her FAITH and beliefs our mom will be reunited with all those she loved that left before her.
The Zavala family wishes to thank Dr. Swartout and his wonderful staff, the staff and caregivers at Fillmore Convalescent Center, Mathias Gonzalez (mom’s Angel on earth), the many friends and family who visited our mother. We also would like to thank Marie Ramos who took great care of our mother for 8 months while she was at home.
Our mom “Licha” will be remembered for her devotion to God, family and friends, for her positive attitude, and always willing to open her home and help those in need. She will be greatly missed, and she will forever be in our hearts! Our family takes great comfort that she is now with our Lord and Savior and no longer in pain. We love you MOM!!
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in memory of Luisa “Licha” Zavala to San Salvador Mission in Piru,
Funeral Services Honoring the Life of Licha will be held at San Salvador Mission Parish, 4045 Center Street, Piru, CA beginning first with the Recitation of the Rosary at 630pm Friday, November 2nd. Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated at 10am, Saturday, November 3rd with Father Barney Gatlin Officiating. Committal & Interment to follow at Piru District Cemetery.
For map and directions to ceremony locations and to sign the family's online guest book, share stories, post pictures please visit our website: www.mysantapaulafuneralhome.com and click on Lichas's name located below "Recent Obituaries".
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Family Owned & Operated Robert Rey Garcia Jr Funeral Svcs Inc., Santa Paula. 805.229.7054.

Joe Paul Gravley Sr. (1932-2012)

Joe Paul Gravley Sr. passed away peacefully on September 22, 2012 in Henderson, NV. Joe was born in Poteau, OK on February 9, 1932 to John and Ruby Gravley and was the fourth of five children. He was raised and went to school in Wichita, KS. At the age of 18 he joined the army where he proudly served his country from 1950-1953. In 1955 he married the love of his life Ellen Mae (Akers) Gravley. They were married for 57 wonderful years and had 5 children. In 1974 Joe brought his family across country to a place called Fillmore, CA to raise his kids and be near other family members. He lived there for over 28 years then moved to Henderson, NV in 2002 to retire with his wife. He was well loved and will be dearly missed.

Joe is survived by his wife Ellen Mae Gravley, his 5 children and their spouses Angela and Steve Core, Joe Jr. and Thaisa Gravley, Rhonda Asfor, Shiryl and Bob Mandeville, Leanne and Phil Mori, along with 9 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.

A Memorial Service will be held on October 20, 2012 at 1:00 PM at the Fillmore Foursquare Church located at 324 Sespe Ave, Fillmore, CA.

Willena Reed Taylor (1920-2012)

Willena Reed Taylor (nee – Dorothy Willena Reed), 92, passed away October 4, 2012, of complications from a stroke, in the Fillmore Convalescent Center. She was born in Frost, Texas, April 15, 1920 to Will and Myrtle Reed. She graduated from Rio Vista High School in 1938. She then attended Draughon’s Business College in San Antonio. While living in Shallowater and working in Littlefield at the Palace Theater she met the love of her life, A.B. Taylor, Jr. They married in 1944 while he was in the Navy. They moved to Long Beach, CA in 1948. She attended Long Beach City College, studying business. They came to Fillmore in 1955.
She had a women’s clothing store for a number of years in the ‘60s at 360 Central Ave. called Willena’s. She also worked a number of years in the Elkin’s Ranch Golf Course snack bar.
She was active in Ebell and belonged to Theta Sigma Phi sorority.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, A.B.Taylor, Jr.
She is survived by son and daughter-in-law Terry and Sally of Chico, Ca; Son Larry of Houston, TX; Son and daughter-in-law Bruce and Rebecca of Tehachapi, CA. Her sister Jean of Glendale, AZ. Numerous grand and great-grand children.
We (her sons) would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone at the Orange Blossom Villa Senior Living Center in Fillmore for the wonderful care she received during the year and a half she lived there. We’d also like to thank Santa Paula Hospital, the Fillmore Convalescent Center, and Assisted Home Hospice for their loving care in her last days.
At her request, Willena will be cremated and there will be no services.
In lieu of flowers, consider making a donation to Assisted Home Hospice of Ventura.
Arrangements are under the direction of Skillin-Carroll Mortuary, Fillmore.

Pasty Lynne Lawrence went to be with the Lord her Savior on October 1st while surrounded by her five loving children. Pat and Dennis Lawrence raised their five children, Cindy, Gail, Guy, Scott, and Michael in Fillmore from 1968-89. In addition to her children and their spouses, Pat has left behind twelve grandchildren and five great grandchildren; she will be missed by family and friends tremendously. Pat remained in frequent contact with her numerous close friends from Fillmore throughout the years.

LaVerre Vaden Askren (1918-2012)

On August 26, 2012 LaVerre Vaden Askren answered the call to join his beloved wife Mary Jane for eternity. He was born September 6, 1918 in Seneca, Kansas to Ernest and Mabel Askren.
While traveling the country with an orchestra he had formed with his brother, Ernie, he met Mary Jane Yetter. They married in 1940 and remained so until her death in February of this year.
He served honorably with the United States Army in Germany during WWII, receiving several medals including a Bronze Star.
His retirement years were spent building, repairing, and cleaning CooCoo and Grandfather Clocks. He was known throughout the County as the “Clock Doctor”.
He possessed great humor, a positive spirit, and a beautiful singing voice; none of which ever waivered.
Those left to rejoice in their reunion are: daughter Judith, son Patrick and wife Carol, and son Michael. Also; 6 Grandchildren, 14 Great Grandchildren and 2 Great-Great Grandchildren.
The family wishes to thank the Fillmore Convalescent Center for their loving car of “Grandpa”