Robert Frederic (“Bob”) Huestis (1922-2012)

Robert Frederic (“Bob”) Huestis died in Sabetha, Kansas, on Sunday, June 3, 2012, three weeks shy of his 90th birthday, having enjoyed a long and wonderful life.
Bob was born on June 27, 1922, in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Howard Huestis and the former Eleanor H. Schilling. He moved to Fillmore with his parents and older brother Howard B. Huestis as a youngster when his father was transferred to the Fillmore Post Office. He graduated with the Fillmore High Class of 1941.
Coach Harry Bigger described Bob in his 1991 Memories as “a big, strong, likeable kid, and in my estimation the best all-around athlete Fillmore HS ever has had.” He was all-league tackle in football as a sophomore, junior, and senior; two years all-league in basketball; and the league’s most valuable player in baseball. He was chosen as team captain in every sport.
Baseball was Bob’s favorite, and his reputation as a pitcher was well known. “It took courage to stay in the batter’s box against Bobby,” recalled Coach Bigger. “Many batters ‘bailed out’ on called strikes.” Bob umpired for the Fillmore Little League for many years and was a long-time Dodgers fan.
Bob was inducted into the Fillmore High School Sports Hall of Fame in 2010, an honor that he treasured.
After playing college baseball briefly in Oklahoma, Bob answered the call of duty. He joined the Marine Corps in November 1942 and served in the Pacific during WWII. He took shrapnel on Saipan, received the Purple Heart, and returned to Fillmore in November 1945.
Mindful of the casualties of war, Bob had searched for assurance that he would have a place in heaven if he didn’t survive. It was not until he was back home, out of harm’s way, that he sensed God speaking to him, inaudibly calling, “I want you to be My son.” Bob responded to that call and received God’s gift of love and assurance of eternal destiny.
Bob married Virginia June LeBard of Fillmore on October 11, 1951. They enjoyed 60 happy years together and raised three children.
Bob spent most of his working years with the Fillmore Post Office in the days when mail carriers walked routes, carrying a mail bag on the shoulder or pushing a cart. Having covered the two largest routes in town, at one time he knew most of the people who lived at each address. He often stopped to greet residents as he delivered the mail and was a friend to many.
During years when the high school was without a swimming pool, Bob opened his own pool to neighborhood youth after work and served as life guard. His home was the location of many a dinner, party, Bible study, and get-together.
He was a long-time member of the First Presbyterian Church, where he served for many years as Sunday School superintendent, as a church elder, and in other capacities.
Answering another call, Bob retired early from the Post Office in 1970 and together with Virginia joined New Tribes Mission of Sanford, Florida, which specializes in evangelizing unreached people groups. After preparatory train¬ing in Pennsylvania and Missouri, they spent five years in Papua New Guinea where Bob was in charge of purchasing and shipping for mission personnel located in remote areas of the country. He and Virginia also operated a guest house for mission personnel in the coastal town of Wewak.
Upon returning to Fillmore for furlough in 1978, Bob was diagnosed with a chronic form of leukemia and suffered a back injury, resulting in retirement from the mission. He then served as a part-time pastor, visiting the sick and elderly. He also drove a bus part time between Fillmore and Ventura for the Fillmore transit system.
Affectionately nicknamed Poppy by his grandchildren, Bob constantly spent count¬less hours loving and caring for them. He got to know each one as he played imagina¬tively with them as youngsters and followed their special interests as they grew older. It was in this way that he passed on his most important values as an ongoing legacy. Each one of his grandchildren carries a piece of his heart and character.
Bob and Virginia moved to Ventura in the late 1980s and from there to Fairview, Kansas, in 2007 to live near their son Sam and his wife Linda, who had just established a home there. Although Bob’s leukemia never progressed, within a year of the move his general health declined, and he became a resident of the Apostolic Christian Home in nearby Sabetha. He enjoyed many visits from family who came often from around the country.
Bob spent his entire adult life serving others and will be remembered as one of the kindest and gentlest men one could ever meet.
He is survived by his wife Virginia; children Sam Huestis of Ventura and Fairview, Alice Mikos of Oak Harbor, Washington, and Margaret LaRue of Ventura; grand¬children Nathan Huestis, Ryan Huestis, Kimberlee Mikos, Matthew Mikos, Christina Mikos, Aimee LaRue Sywulka, Rachel LaRue Culver, and Bobby LaRue; and great grandson Kysen Mikos.
Interment will be on June 8 at the Leavenworth National Cemetery. The family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made in Bob’s memory to the Apostolic Christian Home, the Sabetha Legion baseball team, or other charities.

Juana Andrade Ortega (1925-2012)

Juana Andrade Ortega age 86, resident of Fillmore passed away on May 21, 2012. She was born on June 25, 1925 in Aguascalientes, Mexico. She had been a resident of Ventura County for 56 years. She was a wonderful housewife and loveable mother and grandmother. She worked from 1957 to 1961 for the Hardison’s and from 1961 to 1971 for Samuel Edwards. She worked harvesting lemons and oranges. She was a very hard and dedicated worker. In 1971 was when became a housewife and took care of her grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Antonio Ortega, and Brother Angel Ortega. She was survived by her Brother Jose Andrade, Daughters Connie Briseňo and Ana Berta Enriquez son and Daughter in law Mario and Florencia Ortega, Son and Daughter in law Juan and Evelia Ortega as well as for 14 Grandchildren and 20 Great Grandchildren.

Constance “Connie” Ruth Mumme (1924-2012)

Constance “Connie” Ruth Mumme, 87, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 26, 2012 while surrounded by family and friends at the Tobacco Root Mountains Care Center.
She is survived by her husband, Kenneth; four children: Daniel, Robert, Christopher, and Holley; twelve grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.
Born December 12, 1924 to Lloyd and Marion Holley of Fillmore, Calif., Connie was the second of three children. She spent much of her youth on the orchard ranch owned by her father, and graduated from Fillmore High School with honors in 1942.
After attending Occidental College in 1943-44, Connie transferred to the University of California-Berkeley. There she studied education for three years, using her talents to substitute teach in the Fillmore School District. She would go on to earn the position of head librarian within the district. Among Connie’s many talents, she was a remarkably skilled seamstress, piano player, singer, writer, and caretaker.
On March 30, 1946, Connie was married to Kenneth Mumme upon his return from WWII. Four years later, after the birth of her second son, she temporarily took on the role of primary parent as Kenneth returned to duty in the Korean War.
In 1971, Connie and Kenneth moved from Fillmore to Sheridan with children Chris and Holley. An active member of the community for 41 years, Connie left a lasting mark in Sheridan working alongside her husband as co-owner of the Madison Market and Sheridan Bakery. She was a pillar of strength in the Sheridan Methodist Church and a friend to many within the community. Her final years were spent being loved and cared for by her devoted husband and the health care staff at the Tobacco Root Mountains Care Center.
She will be remembered for her wit and for a spirit that lives on in her more than twenty direct descendants. Even in the throes of Alzheimer’s, which stole much of her memory, her wonderful sense of humor prevailed. After 66 years of marriage, Connie set an incredible standard in loving her family, and for that she will be missed dearly by so many.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, May 31, at 11 a.m. from the Bethel Methodist Church at Sheridan with Rev. Ben Nardi officiating. Interment will follow in the Sheridan Cemetery.

Kerry Weber Balden (1958-2012)

May 11, 1958-May 9, 2012
Kerry Weber Balden, 53, died May 9, 2012 in his home in Seabrook, TX. Mr. Balden was born in Santa Paula, CA to James and Patricia Wilson Balden. He was a graduate of Filmore High School, class of 1976. He and his siblings spent many happy weekend and summer visits at their grandparents’ beach house in Mussel Shoals, CA.
As a young adult, Kerry worked in the maritime industry. Eventually he moved to Hawaii and worked as chief engineer for a firm in the Honolulu Harbor. While in Hawaii he met his wife Maureen Smith Balden. After marrying in Hawaii, the couple relocated and has lived in Seabrook, TX since 1992.
Kerry was an active member and volunteer at the Bay Area Club in League City and the Wheel House in Deer Park. He owned and operated Balden Construction during his Texas years.
Kerry was preceded in death by his mother and grandparents. He is survived by his wife Maureen, and two sons, Kerry James, 19, and Shea Evans, 16; his father James Evans Balden and stepmother Elaine Balden of Altadena, CA; his siblings Patrick, Laura Balden Clauson, Michael, Justine Blanton, Alana Balden and Skyla Balden; his numerous sisters and brothers-in-law, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and too many friends to name.
In lieu of flowers, the family has established the Kerry Weber Balden Memorial “Fix-It” Fund to benefit ongoing building maintenance and lawn care at the Bay Area Club, as these were Kerry’s weekly service project and his great passion. Donations to this fund may be sent directly by check to the Bay Area Club, 2111 Webster St. League City, TX 77573, specifying Kerry’s name in the memo. Alternatively, donations may be made to the Wheelhouse, also dear to Kerry’s heart, at www.thewheelhouseinc.com via PayPal, or mailed to 206 West Helgra St. Deer Park, TX 77536. Donations to either the BAC or the Wheelhouse are fully tax deductible.
Condolences may be sent to the Balden Family, PO Box 813, Seabrook, TX 77586.
Visitation will be held at Crowder Funeral Home at 111 E. Medical Center Blvd. Webster, TX 77598 from 5 – 7 PM Friday May 18th.
A funeral service will be held at Gateway Community Church at 760 Clear Lake City Blvd. Webster, TX at 5 PM Saturday May 19th. The 5 PM timing commemorates Kerry’s daily attendance with Friends of Bill at the Live @ 5 Group.
Immediately following the service there will be a potluck reception at Gateway. Please bring a covered dish and a story.

Alfredo Carrillo (1980-2012)

Alfredo Carrillo, age 31 of Fillmore, was born on December 1, 1980, to Salvador and Ninfa Carrillo in Van Nuys, California. He passed away on Thursday, April 26, 2012 at his home.
He graduated from Fillmore High School in 1998. In the last few years he worked for Boscovich Farms. His passion was making music with his friends and watching the food channel and sports. He was a genius with computers.
Alfredo, you will be greatly missed, there are no words to describe how your family and friends will miss you. You will be remembered for your tender heart. 2 Timothy 4:7 “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day and not only me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.”
Alfredo was preceded in death by his grandparents, Serovio and Inez Carrillo, and Jesus Lopez; aunt, Esperanza Lopez; and cousin, Martin Becerra.
Alfredo is survived by his father Salvador Carrillo; mother Ninfa Carrillo; sister, Claudia Ramirez and her husband Joseph Ramirez; niece, Mia Ramirez; nephew, Dominic Ramirez; grandmother, Altagracia Lopez; aunts and uncles, Eva Magana, Raquel Gonzalez, Isabel Campos, Leopoldo Lopez, Jesus Lopez, Florisa Lopez, Manuel Campos, Eva Gomez, cousins, Nora Ruiz, Nancy Magana, Manuel Magana, Yvette, Elba and Joshua Campos, Violeta, Esmeralda, Rudy and Angel Gonzales, Jazmin, Jessica and Jacob Ruiz, Reina, Amber and Sierra Magana, and Kalob Conzalez.
Prayer Service will be held at 6pm on Monday, April 30 at La Promesa de Jesus, 461 Central Avenue, Fillmore Ca.
Funeral Service will be held at 9am on Tuesday May 1, also at La Promesa de Jesus, officiated by Ernesto Rangel. Burial to follow at Bardsdale Cemetery in Fillmore.

Josephine Curiel (1956-2012)

Josephine Curiel was born May 1, 1956. She grew-up in Fillmore, California. She graduated from Fillmore High School in 1974. After obtaining her M.A. and teaching credential, she worked for thirty years in Riverside County as a special education teacher and advocate for special needs children.
On March 21, 2012, Josie died and is now with her mother Cora and brother Billie.
She will be deeply missed by her family; father Martiniano Curiel, sisters; Martha Curiel Jimenez, Monica Curiel, Hortensia Curiel, brothers; John Soto, Freddie Vassaur, and Frank Curiel and her many nieces and nephews.
Josie will also be missed by her friends, co-workers, and students. Her family was deeply touched by the showing of love and support from her friends. We sincerely thank them.
Josie's ashes will be dispersed at sea on June 17, 2012 at the Ventura Harbor.

Louis R. Gabrielsen (1913-2012)

Private family services paid tribute to the life of long-time county resident, Louis R. Gabrielsen, 98, who peacefully passed away April 4, 2012 at his beloved SaraLou Ranch between Fillmore and Santa Paula.
With him at his death were daughters Patricia Mann Alto and Terri Mann Schaeffer and her husband Douglas Schaeffer of Cincinnati, Ohio.
Known locally by nicknames Lou or Gabe, Mr. Gabrielsen was the only child of Norwegian immigrants, Louis Sebinius and Olava Ellingsen Gabrielsen.
When he was born, July 18, 1913, his parents were visiting friends in New Jersey and in order to earn funds to get his wife and son out of the hospital and return to their home in Philadelphia, Gabe's father went out fishing.
When he was 9, the Gabrielsen family made the cross-country train ride to San Diego, where his father worked on many projects as a machinist, including Lindbergh's The Spirit of St. Louis". Gabe could dearly remember clearly incidents from both World War I and the Spanish flu epidemic of 1918.
Mr. Gabrielsen was involved in various youth military groups and was in the ROTC at San Diego High School from which he was graduated in 1931. After a stint in business school, he had a variety of jobs including one working as an auditor on the Oakland-San Francisco Bay Bridge construction. Late in the 1930's he owned and operated a small hotel in San Diego, but that ended December 8, 1941 when he enlisted in the US Navy, where he served as a store master on various ships in the South Pacific until the end of the war. During his Navy service he won several fleet boxing championships.
In 1946 He came to Ventura County to look for work in the oilfields, but by 1947 he was working as a public accountant. He continued his practice until blindness forced him to close his practice in Fillmore in 1993.
On August 16, 1958 he married Sara Bjornson and they moved to the ranch Easter Weekend 1961. "Sally" worked as a school nurse and together had a fascinating life travelling and associating with their many local friends as well as new people they met on their trips.
Mr. Gabrielsen was a life-long hunter and fisherman who tracked after various fish and game in places as diverse as New Zealand, Chile and Norway. He was a Dodger fan from way before they moved to LA and looked forward to baseball season all year. He loved growing things, particularly roses and tomatoes, and his noted cooking skills were donated to a variety of organizations. One of his favorite activities was working with the Sheriff’s mounted rescue posse and was involved in rescues both up the Seeps and off the beaches.
An involved member of both the local community and of professional organizations, he belonged to Fillmore Rotary Club, the Fillmore Club and served on various charitable committees. He was active in California Accountants' Association, serving in state-wide offices. At one time he was on the state board of accountancy.
After joining the Masonic movement at age of 21, he was involved in various aspects of Masonry until his death. He was a member of Al Malikah Shrine and of the Scottish Rite. Honored with the Hirum Award for service above the call of duty, he also received the thirty third, or highest degree of Masonry. Two years ago the State Grand Master honored him with a 75-year pin.
As well as through Shriner's efforts for crippled and burned childrens' hospitals, his philanthropy extended to many groups as well as to private people, many times anonymously. The day one of his step-daughters first met him, she was with her mom at Ipswich's Fillmore Boater. As they waited a man came out of the back of the store and left. Jack lpswich turned and told Sally that man was Lou Gabrielsen and he had a standing order that when children were noted to be ill-shod, the schools were see they got shoes and Gabe paid for them.
Early in his life Louis Gabrielsen vowed that if he ever had anything he would share it with others.
Surviving him are his daughters and grandchildren Tricia Mason of Bountiful, Utah, Tracie Pierce, of Baltimore, Hayward Alto of Chisinau, Moldova, Garrett Alto of Ukiah. Bryan Schaeffer of Tallahassee, Florida, Kristian Alto of Ukiah, Heidi Clark of Dayton, Ohio, Kelly Bullock of Lehi, Utah, and Annmarie Clark of American Fork, Utah, as well as 16 great-grandchildren.

Muriel L. Pennington (2012)

Stronger than any force, true love often overcomes all obstacles. This power always has a way of bringing people together, and it did just that on April 2nd, 2012 when Muriel L. Pennington, 91, passed away at Twin Cities Hospital in Templeton, CA. Muriel Hall and James Pennington were married December 8, 1938 in Booneville, AR. Soon after celebrating their 73rd wedding anniversary, James passed away peacefully in their home this past January. Having lost her other half, Muriel was close to follow her love James after celebrating her 91st birthday in March. There are no words to express the love and devotion of this amazing couple who are remembered fondly by all. Muriel, remembered mostly for her unwavering spirit, open kitchen, and warm heart is survived by children Jim and wife Pam Pennington, Grace and husband Jack Collins, and Cindy Brennan, as well as nine grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren. She also leaves behind her remarkable caregivers Grace J. and Pam F. Please join family and friends in celebrating the life of Muriel Pennington on Monday, April 9th, at the Skillin Carroll Mortuary in Santa Paula, CA. A viewing will begin at 12:00pm and service at 1:00pm. Graveside service at the Pierce Brothers' Santa Paula Cemetery will follow.

Rev. Katherine Yates (2012)

The Rev. Katherine Yates passed on to her new experience March 29, 2012 at 3:30 a.m. She was born in St. Louis, MO and had been a resident of Ventura County since 1960.
The youngest of four children, she is survived by siblings; Barbara Roberts of Lafayette, IN, and John Sutorius of Camarillo, CA. The mother of five children, she is survived by; Michelle Brown of Camarillo, CA, Stephen Boyd of Aztec, NM, Michael Boyd of Oxnard, CA, Sabrina McManigal of Ventura, CA, and grandchildren; Caresse Vetter, Staff Sergeant Crystal Newman, currently serving in Afghanistan, Nolan Brown, Hugh McManigal, Madison McManigal, and great grandchildren; Dylan Vetter, Cody Vetter and Lacey Vetter.
Rev. Yates answered the call to the ministry and became an ordained minister of Religious Science International in 1974. She founded the Oxnard Church of Religious Science in 1975 and served as pastor for 17 years. During this time she created a weekly Sunday morning radio program, was a frequent guest on various television programs. Her natural ability and easy style, combined with a well developed sense of humor made her a well received speaker at various civic functions, church seminars, workshops and the annual RSI Conference in Monterey, CA. For a period of ten years Rev. Yates worked with Dr. Fred Fenger conducting Prayer therapy Sessions. She also served as the pastor of the Fillmore Church of Religious Science for seven years before retirement.
Her first book, " The Warrior Within, The Emerging Self ", was published in 1995. She wrote numerous children's stories, articles and was working on a second book. Rev. Yates was an effective counselor and healer and her practical approach to teaching the " Science of Mind "
caused her students to bestow upon her the title " Teacher of Teachers ". Many of her students also followed her call to the ministry.
Her gentle loving nature and calming influence, as well as her natural integrity will continue to bless all who knew her. She was and is well loved and will be greatly missed.
She loved her children, gentle souls, smooth jazz, flowers, trees, laughter, travel, mystery novels, and ongoing research into ancient wisdom. Pervading everything was her love of God. " Go gently into the Light."
A memorial service will be held for her at The Ventura Church of Religious Science on Saturday April 14th at 10:00 a.m. at 101 S. Laurel St., Ventura, CA.

Charles Daniel Ladd (1981 - 2012)

Charles "Danny" Ladd, passed away in his sleep at home from unknown causes on March 23,2012.
Danny grew up in Fillmore and lived most of his life there, until moving to Georgia seven years ago.
He was educated in Fillmore schools, attended high school in Big Bear, CA., and later Simi Valley Adult Ed. and technical school in Georgia. Attaining many certifications in Computer Science, Danny was our favorite "Computer Geek."
Danny was employed in the construction trade and truly enjoyed his job and co-workers. He had attended Noble Fellowship Church before moving to Canton, GA.
He looked forward to playing on his X-Box with his nephews and friends in his spare time, enjoyed history and science,and was an avid animal lover.His sense of humor would always leave you laughing.
He faced many challenges in life, but with prayers and God's help, he overcame them and became a man that his family was so very proud of. He always had a special place in our hearts but the last seven years were truly a blessing.
Danny is survived by his parents Charles and Patricia Ladd of Lafayette, Ga., formerly of Fillmore, sisters Kimberly Lucero of Santa Paula and Katrina Covarrubias of Oxnard, son Daniel Ladd and daughter Shyanne Galvan (The two loves of his life that he could not stop bragging on), Grandmother Mary Devitt of Fillmore, nephews Devin and Derek Kromidas of Ventura, Mason and Taylor Covarrubias of Oxnard and niece Kathryn Covarrubias of Oxnard, several cousins, including Angela Gregory of Fillmore, Uncles Bill Ladd of Rossville, GA., Robert Ladd of Rock Spring, GA., and Harry Devitt of Ringgold, GA. Danny also left behind his fiancee, Patty Martinez of Canton, GA., whom he loved and cared for deeply.
Danny was preceded in death by his grandfather, Vernon "Pop" Devitt of Fillmore and his grandparents Carl and Beulah Ladd of St. Elmo, TN.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests your prayers and cards.
A celebration of his life will be held on Thursday, April 12,2012 at 11:00 a.m. at the Church of Christ in Fillmore, followed by a graveside service at the Bardsdale Cemetery. A luncheon will be provided back at the church in the Fellowship Hall, prepared by the ladies of the congregation.
A piece of all of our hearts has been ripped out, but we have great comfort knowing we will someday see him again.

Ione Luverne Brooks (1910-2012)

Ione Luverne Brooks, longtime resident of Bardsdale and Fillmore, passed away peacefully at the Fillmore Convalescent Center on March 26th at the age of 102.
Her milestone birthday was celebrated by family just eight days prior to her passing.
Ione (Rapp) was born in Grand Junction, Iowa, on March 18, 1910. Her family moved several times to follow her dad's careers, eventually settling down in Ames, where she graduated from Ames High School. Her beloved family included sister Dode and brothers Bob and Marion. The family eventually moved to Los Angeles, where Ione worked as a pediatric assistant, eventually meeting and marrying Robert Brooks. The family moved to Fillmore in 1951, when Dr. Brooks took over a chiropractic practice and settled the family in Bardsdale. Ione enjoyed participating in local oganizations such as the Fillmore Ebell Club, the Chacalata Club, the local bridge club, and W.S.C.S. at the Bardsdale Methodist Church, where she was an active member for over 50 years. She moved to El Dorado Mobile Home Park after her husband's passing and then to the Fillmore Convalescent Center in 2009. Ione's family will be forever grateful for the wonderful care afforded her during her stay.
Ione is survived by her son, Bob, Jr., his wife, Victoria, of Simi Valley, his children Randy, Cherree, Dee, and Lori, daughter Barbara Somers of Fillmore and sons Nelson, Jr., Chris, and Shannon, daughter Nancy Smalle and husband, Lou, of Centennial, CO, and son, David, numerous great- and great-great-grandchildren, sister-in-law Joan Rapp and daughter Wendy Barels of Santa Barbara, and nephew Joe Marquette, Jr. of Woodland Hills.
A graveside service will be held at the Bardsdale Cemetery on Monday, April 2, at 10:30 a.m.
Ione was a great mom and will be missed by all. Donations may be made to the charity of your choice.

Rosario Guzman "Chayo" (1916-2012)

Rosario Guzman passed away in the arms of our Blessed Mother Mary on Sunday, March 25, 2012. Chayo was born on August 18, 1916 in Tucson, Arizona to Amelia and Francisco Diaz. She was the youngest of seven children. At a very young age her mother moved the entire family to California. Amelia got a job working (in a campo) in Etiwanda, CA. There Rosario married Joe Viramontez Sr. and raised four boys until Joe's sudden and unexpected death.
In time, Rosario moved her boys to Fillmore, California in the 1940's to be closer to family who had moved to Ventura County. In 1951, Rosario met and married another very good man, Aurelio Guzman. They had two daughters.
Chayo was a master seamstress. She could make anything (sew, do drawn work, crotchet, knit, do quilt work, needlepoint, cross stitch, and embroidery) Name it, she could make it. Mom loved her canaries and working in her beautiful garden. The trips to Vegas and Laughlin with Daddy and later with her friends and (Gambling Buddies) to Chumash were very special to her.
The past 12 years, after Daddy's death, her grandsons, Marcos and Ale brought much Love and Joy to her life.
Rosario was preceded in death by her husband, Aurelio, all her brothers and sisters, daughter-in-law, Vera and Joe Sr.
Rosario is survived by her children, Ray (Nancy) , Louie (Yulie), Joey (Mary Kay), Freddy, Virginia (Mario) Gracie (Mario), Babs, many nieces and nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Visitation will take place at Skillin Carroll Fillmore Mortuary on Thursday, March 29, 2012 from 2-5p.m. Fr. Art will lead the Rosary at (10a.m.) and officiate at the Funeral Mass (10:30a.m.) at St. Francis Catholic Church on Friday, March 30, 2012. Interment will follow at the Bardsdale Cemetery. We will continue with a reception at the Sanchez Residence where we will meet with peace in our hearts.

Oscar M. Carrillo "Pop" (1929-2012)

Oscar Carrillo of Fillmore passed away peacefully at his home on Friday March 23, 2012 with his family by his side. Oscar was born on Oct. 31, 1929.
He was married to the love of his life Virginia for 52 years. He attended Fillmore high School. He was drafted to the Minor league as a pitcher but was unable to attend due to his father’s death. His favorite teams were the Dodgers, Lakers, Rams and UCLA Bruins (he loved his sports) . One of his passions was bowling. He started bowling at the age of 17, in 1996 he was recognized by CSBA Association.
He is survived by his sister Sally Espinoza, brothers Victor and Paul Carrillo. Wife Virginia, sons Frank, Felix (Arlene), Tommy (Kim), Alex and six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He retired from Egg City at the age of 64. He loved to dance, camp, and travel
with his wife and numerous friends. He will be deeply missed by his family.
Visitation will take place on Tuesday March 27, 2012 at 4 p.m. at Skillin-Carroll Chapel with a Rosary being held at 7 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday March 28, 2012 at 10 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church. Place of burial will be Bardsdale Cemetery. Funeral arrangements entrusted to the care of Skillin-Carroll Mortuary , 600 N. Central Ave., Fillmore, CA 93015. 805-524-0744 www.skillincarrollfil.com.

Wes Carpenter (1953-2012)

Wes Carpenter, 58, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on February 17, 2012, after being ill with cancer the past year. He was born on December 19, 1953, in Alhambra, Californa. He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Annette; son, Justin; daughter, Shannon; brother, John Carpenter (Suzie); sister, Lolly Felger; and sister, Toni MacAdam (Don). A memorial service for Wes was held on February 25, 2012 at the Faith Community Church in Fillmore.
Wes was born and raised in the San Gabriel Valley. He and Annette and their children moved from Rosemead, California, to Fillmore in 1991. Wes, being a very athletic person, was very happy to coach Justin and Shannon in their softball and Little League baseball teams throughout the years. He truly loved coaching the children and being involved in their lives. He also enjoyed attending Shannon’s cheerleading competitions and supporting her cheer squad. Wes was so very proud of Justin and Shannon. He loved the outdoors, fishing in lakes and the ocean. Hunting was also one of his passions. He and Justin fished and hunted together for many years. In his later years he joined the Castaic Bass Club and enjoyed fishing in tournaments in the local lakes and enjoying the company of all of the friends he made in the club. Wes will always be remembered as a wonderful husband and father. His family and friends will miss him and love him forever.

Isadore V. Escoto (1919-2012)

Isadore V. Escoto was born on April 4, 1919 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Lorenzo and Librada Villalobos Escoto. He passed away peacefully on March 7, 2012 at 92 years old in his Fillmore, California home where he had been lovingly cared for by his family.
Arriving in Fillmore as a young man Isadore worked at the MOD Packing House making lifelong friends. He eventually went to work as a master machinist at Bermite in Saugus, California where he was highly respected for his skill and advice to fellow workers. After over 30yrs of service Isadore retired from Bermite to enjoy his family, especially his grandchildren whom he and his wife Mary enjoyed spending lots of time with.
Isadore preceded in death by his loving wife Mary, his Parents, and four Brothers Steven, Ignacio, Miguel and Pasqual Escoto. He survived by his Sons Gil (Cindy) Escoto, Art (Peggy) Escoto, Grand children Katie Prado, Willie Escoto and Rayna Dunehew, Jake and Stephanie Ellis, Cherie and Jaime Ocegueda, Arthur Escoto, Cheynne Rangle and eight great-grand children who knew him as Big Papa, Brothers Candelario and Primo Escoto, along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Services will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic church on Monday, March 19th, 2012, at 10:00am Burial to Follow at Bardsdale Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to Skillin-Carroll Mortuary 600. Central Ave, Fillmore, Ca (805) 524-0744. www.skillincarrollfil.com.

Joyce Ann Patterson Vossler (1921-2012)

Jan. 13, 1921 - Mar. 1, 2012
Joyce Ann Patterson Vossler left this world after a lengthy illness, on March 1, 2012, at the age of 91, to go sit at the feet of her Saviour. Her family and friends surrounded her with love, encouragement, and warmth during her illness, giving her a strong resolve to stay with us as long as she could.
Joyce was born in Sitka, Kansas, to James Preston “Pat" and Ida Patterson. They moved west in 1927,settling in the Bardsdale community, where she and her sister Velma attended the Bardsdale School. One year after settling in, she witnessed the St. Francis Dam disaster, and they were stranded on the southern side of the Santa Clara
River for many days.
During her Sophomore year at Fillmore High School in 1936, she started taking art Lessons from Lawrence Hinckley, a well known local artist, and it became one of her Lifelong pleasures. She Graduated high school in 1939, and attended Ventura J C for two years. It was during this time that Joyce and her future husband were introduced.
After a wartime romance and marriage, newlyweds W.L. "Dub" and Joyce Patterson Vossler moved to Long Beach for a short time, where she helped the WWII effort as a Riveter for Douglas Aircraft. When Dub was inducted in 1943, she moved back to Fillmore.
Sometime in the 1950's.she entered a local bake contest, winning first prize for her banana nut cake with white mountain icing, and the title of Mrs. Fillmore. This then led to entry at the Ventura County Fair, where she competed with other "Mrs." contestants from other cities in the county, and was a blue ribbon winner again with that delicious cake.
A ful1time wife and mother for many years, Joyce eventually went to work for Dr. Donald Musgrave as his office nurse for 14 years. She helped Dub build their first house, while raising 3 children. Joyce was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Fillmore, and taught Sunday School for many years. She often told the scriptures to her Church children thru colorful chalk drawings. She loved to camp in the Sierras with fami1y and friends, and was known to be a pretty good fisherman, usually catching the first and the longest fish. She most loved spending time at the Rincon beach campsites with her grandchildren, picking up seashel1s,exploring the tide pools, or just listening to the trains go by.
When her husband retired in 1979, they moved to Sheridan, Montana, where they built their retirement home. They spent an idyllic 23 years there, making lifelong friends.
Joyce always insisted that they "come home" to Fillmore for Christmas, to be with family. They moved back to Fillmore for good in 2004. This past July 2011, marked 70 years of marriage to Dub, which was celebrated with family and friends.
Survivors include her husband W.L."Dub" Vossler; daughters and sons-in-law Linda and Jerry Crockett, and Nancy and Raymond Cervantez., all ofFi1lmore; son and daughter-in-law Robert and Sherry Vossler of Lowell, Oregon; granddaughters Jennifer Crockett of Oklahoma City, Ok, and Teresa Blankenship of Sonora, Ca; grandsons Kelly Brown of Ojai, and Casey (Anne) Brown of Tulare, Ca, great grandchildren Rachel Chavez, Brittany, Taylor, and Kelsie Brown, and Jillian and Brennan Brown, and great great grandson Devin Willeford; and many nieces and nephews.
Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, Preston and Ida Patterson, her sister, Velma Patterson Mayhew, grandson Michael Vossler, great-grandson Joshua Chavez, and great-great granddaughter Desiree Jordan Willeford.
The family wishes to thank the Fillmore Convalescent Center staff, caregivers and friends for the compassionate care and love shown to Joyce during her residence there.
We also gratefully thank Pastor Leslie Lanier for his devotion and daily presence in our lives.
Visitation will be held at Skillin-Carroll Fillmore Mortuary, 600 Central Ave, on Mon, March 5, 2012 from 4-8 pm. Gravesides services will be held March 6, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. Bardsda1e Cemetery

April 1, 1940 - February 28, 2012
Jim Hahn, 71, passed away suddenly Tuesday at his home in Benicia. He was born in Ventura to a successful, hardworking farmer, August Hahn and devoted, loving mother, Estelle Hahn. He was a resident of Ventura for more than 20 years and has lived in Benicia the past 14 years. He was preceded in death by his brother Bill Hahn and his sister Judy Hahn.
Jim was a veteran of the United States Army, serving his country in the Defense Atomic Support Agency from 1963-1965. He earned both his Bachelors and Masters degrees in Business Management from St. Mary’s College and worked for 28 years for the Oakland Police Department, retiring as Captain, Commanding Officer, of the Criminal Investigation Division. He was awarded both the Blue Star Medal by the Oakland Police Department and the meritorious award by the Office of the Mayor of Oakland.
He loved reading, water skiing, snow skiing, traveling, his family and he was a huge history buff.
Jim is survived by his children Lisa Hahn-MacKie, Petre & Michael Hahn and his granddaughter Kayla MacKie. He will be remembered by his family as a loving, humble, generous and involved father and grandfather.
“As man may, he fought his fight, proved his truth by his endeavor; let him sleep in solemn night, sleep forever and forever.” We love you Dad.
Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Thursday at St. Dominic’s Church, 475 East I Street with Father Jason Landeza officiating. Burial will honors will follow in Sacramento Valley National Cemetery. Family prefers donation be made in Jim's name to Oakland Police Foundation at Oaklandpolicefoundation.org or by mail to Oakland Police Foundation 455 7th Street, 7th Floor, Oakland, CA 94607 or 510-238-6102.

Mary Jane Phyllis Askren (1922-2012)

Mary Jane Phyllis Askren, our precious Wife and Mother, born June 10, 1922, was set free from her pain on February 19, 2012. Left to cherish her memory is her husband of 72 years, Laverre Askren, and her daughter Judith, son Patrick and wife Carol, and son Michael. Also to cherish her memory are six Grandchildren, thirteen Great Grandchildren, and two Great Great Grandchildren.
The family wishes to thank the wonderful staff at the Fillmore Convalescent Center for all the kind and loving care that was given and continues to be given to our loved ones.

Ida Viola Muth (1917-2012)

September 1, 1917-February 12, 2012
Ida was a warm and generous soul. Her kindness, humor and ability to give wholeheartedly, were vastly appreciated and currently mourned by her family and all who knew her.
She and her late husband, Garold R. Muth enjoyed many wonderful years living in what her numerous grandchildren &
great-grandchildren describe as a paradise, on top of a mountain in Piru Canyon.
They enjoyed fishing, traveling in their custom travel home, hosting the many that found such solace and joy in their fine company and adored the love of their blended family. She was a fantastic cook and won raves for her home-cured olives, venison jerky & preserves. Always quick to praise those she loved, a compassionate mother, doting grandmother & great grandmother, with the penchant to feed you, no matter what the hour.
Her hospitality remains unmatched in our families.
Her last years were spent in Ojai, fighting a valiant fight against illness, under the loving care of many. She passed peacefully in her sleep.
"And when the earth shall claim your limbs, then shall you truly dance." Kahlil Gibran
We imagine a slow dance, with the kindhearted man who preceded her in death and she missed so much.
Ida is preceded in death by her son, Albert Carter & daughter Kathleen Franks. Survived by her brother, Leonard Preciado, Piru, her children, Rosemarie DeLano, Bakersfield. Elsie & Bob Simonson, Ojai, Daryl & Vickie Muth, Ojai, Garold M. & Mandy Muth, Bakersfield , Kirk & Marilyn Muth, Bakersfield and the grandchildren, great grandchildren & great- great grandchildren, too numerous to list.
Graveside funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 18, at the Piru Cemetery, 3580 Center Road, Piru. Pastor Ben Unseth will officiate.

Frank Martin Ortiz (Paco) (Two Bear) (1948-2012)

March 23, 1948 - January 7,2012
Frank passed away with his wife, sons, and mother by his side.
Frank is the son of Frank and Mae Ortiz.
He attended Piru and Fillmore schools.
He graduated from Fillmore High school
1966 and then after he enlisted in the Air Force.
After Frank finished his duties in the Air force he
started to travel and be one with nature.
Franked loved American Indian culture Chumash.
He had many Indian nick names and lived up to each one
of them. He will truly be missed by his family and friends.
I've Earned My Wings
I'm sorry mommy i left you so soon;
I was there when the angels woke you up at noon,
I know I was gone from the flash from the start,
Mommy Remember,
I will always be in your heart.
I listen to you dearly,
When you visit my side.
Please don't cry,
be sad.
continue to be brave.
I didn't mean to leave you so soon.
I was looking from heaven when everyone was praying for me.
Take car of my BROTHERS, SISTERS, and NIECES and NEPHEWS along with your self too.
There will always and forever be apart of me living with you.
I'll be waiting for you here at the golden gate.
Time is ticking mommy, please don't be late.
I long to embrace you in my arms.
don't worry Mommy!
I'm in a place where there is no harm or suffering anymore.
I've earned my wings.
I live in the sky.
I'am watching everyday Mommy, so please don't cry.
"We will be known forever for the tracks we leave".
Love you Two Bear.