Rosemarie C. DeLano (1936-2022)

Rosemarie C. DeLano was born on February 20,1936 to Ida Viola Preciado & Epigmenio Cervantez Torres in Piru, California. She passed away November 29, 2022, joining her parents and many before her, including her other father, Ira Carter, step-father Gerald Muth; Sister, Elsie Simonson; Brother, Albert Carter; and her beloved husband, David E. Delano. We imagine a grand welcoming on the other side of the veil.
Rosemarie is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Valerie & Cecil Ward; Vicki & Allen Smart; Pepper DeLano-Doty; and Kristi DeLano, as well as her precious Grand, Great Grand, and Great Great Grandchildren, too numerous to list, whom she adored beyond measure.
She called Bakersfield home in 1959. She was known to many as Mom, Nana, Rose, Rosie, and Officer DeLano in her service as a correctional officer at Tehachapi State Men's Prison. After retirement, she was busy as Grammanana at Downtown Elementary and Queen Mumzy in her much-loved Red Hat Ladies chapter. She was blessed to have a large immediate family by birth and marriage and an extended family of close friends, with some specifically deemed so by the title of Aunt, Uncle, Cousin, or child. She was a maverick and trailblazer, fiercely independent and strong, funny and unapologetically honest with stories so vibrant and deep about all that she experienced in her 86 years of life, and oh, what a life!
Rosemarie was an avid reader and gifted storyteller; she loved to garden with an affinity for cacti & succulents, roses, and Newhall Ranch orange trees. Rose loved to travel and shop for good bargains; she was a fantastic cook and loved all things culinary; she found meaning and joy in the smallest things and loved with all her heart.
She was the source of the most delightful creativity that has carried on throughout her family, along with the shared memory of taking every child & grandchild to get their first library card, inspiring our shared love of reading.
The world will never be quite the same without her. Gone from our sight, but never from our hearts and minds. Rosemarie planted love and memories wherever she went, and that legacy will continue to grow.
Graveside Services will be held on December 17 at 2 pm. Piru Cemetary, Piru, CA, followed by a reception and celebration of life directly after.

Louis Kelton Lovelace (1934-2022)

Louis Kelton Lovelace, 88, of Fillmore, CA. passed away on December 2nd 2022 after a brief illness. Born on January 29th, 1934 to Dewey Kelly Lovelace and Gladys (McGariety) Lovelace. He was the 6th in line of 8 siblings. Louis was the last living member of his family. His parents, grandparents, 3 brothers and 4 sisters all preceded him in death.
Many stories have been told of his childhood growing up in the countryside of West Tennessee. While visiting family in Memphis, he would often meet-up with Elvis Presley through his childhood and into adulthood. He attended grade school in a two-room schoolhouse; he proudly called “Gaines University.” Entering High School, he was very active in baseball and had scouts watching him for a possible pro career.
At the age of 17, he enlisted in the Navy and after basic training he was stationed in San Diego to begin his Navy career. From there, he was transferred to Port Hueneme and appointed to the USS Norton Sound - noted for being the first guided-missile ship in the Navy. Being an experimental ship, he spoke of many exciting experiences while onboard. Many of the rockets and missiles tested from this ship are now on display at the Kennedy Space Center.
While stationed at Port Hueneme, he spent much of his spare time at the skating rink in Ventura. It was there that he literally “fell” over a pretty girl while skating backwards. A friendship developed which resulted in marriage. Louis and Sandra Voorhies were married in 1952. Until his discharge, they remained living in Ventura County.
During his enlistment, he was trained to be a Barber and became the Ship-Captain’s personal Barber. Upon his discharge, he continued with his Barbering skills and became a Master Barber. He was in great demand for his flat-top cuts.
In 1954, a son Louis Timothy was born and the young couple decided to move back to Tennessee. A daughter, Cynthia Ann was welcomed into the family shortly after. It was also around this time that California was calling them to return, so they journeyed back. While living in Taft, CA. for a short period of time, he helped establish a Barber College in Bakersfield, CA. He eventually settled in Fillmore, CA. and continued Barbering at The Poplar Barber Shop. This was a special meeting-place with Louis and his co-partner Olen Core, becoming the very best of friends.
In 1964, Louis & Sandra welcomed another son, Kelly Lee. Sandra sadly passed away in 1989 and Kelly tragically passed in 2006. Louis and Sandra were married for 34 years.
In the early 1970’s, Louis decided to make a career change and became employed at A&F Testing Company, as a salesman for the company. He remained in this field until 1991 when he went into semi-retirement.
It was also in 1991 that he asked a friend, Gertrude Thompson out to lunch on a Sunday afternoon. She said, “Yes” and they were a couple from then on. They were married on June 1st of that same year. They shared 31 years of marriage.
Upon full retirement, Louis became involved with Elkins Ranch Golf Course. He was a Marshall there for over 20 years. In his younger years, he became a very accomplished golfer and enjoyed a game of golf with friends, family and especially his wife Gertrude.
In the late 1990’s a van conversion was purchased and Louis & Gertrude began their travels. Every state was visited including a trip to Alaska and several vacations in Hawaii.
At home and while on their many years of travel, trails were hiked, paths were walked and sidewalks trod. Many pairs of shoes became very worn. The couple was always recognized and greeted by friends and neighbors while taking their daily walks, which would often surpass 6 miles a day, in their Fillmore neighborhood.
Louis is survived by his wife Gertrude, his son Tim (Julie) Lovelace and daughter Cynthia (Paul) Vaiz. Grandsons Michael (Erashel) Vaiz, Richard (Michelle) Vaiz, Granddaughters Rachel (Danny) Jones and Nicole Lovelace.
Louis’ Great Grandchildren are Sandra Vaiz, Sophia Vaiz and Jersey & Hailey Jones.
Through marriage, Louis had 14 Grand and Great-Grand children with 2 more on the way.
Louis had an inherited family through his marriage to Gertrude. Children Robert (Debbie) Thompson, Rosemary (Robert) Flory, Richard (deceased) and Deborah Thompson. 9 Grandchildren, 16 Great Grandchildren and 6 Great-Great Grandchildren.
Graveside services are scheduled for Wednesday, December 14th at 11am, at Bardsdale Cemetery. Reception following at Britt Park in Piru, CA.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Louis’ memory to the Fillmore Athletic Boosters Club. He was instrumental in getting this organization established at Fillmore High School.

Lupe G. Alcozar (1928-2022)

Lupe G. Alcozar born March 1st 1928 on Camulos Ranch. He passed suddenly on November 25th 2022.
Lupe lived a humbled full life to the age of 94 years old. He was a lifelong resident of Piru. He served in the United States Air Force for 4 years and rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant a very proud American. Later Lupe was employed with General Motors where he worked for 36 years, after retiring he kept busy working on yard projects. He really enjoyed family get togethers and his favorite pastimes were listening to Big Band music “Tommy Dorsey” he also enjoyed watching Boxing but he was a True Blue Avid Dodger fan…. Go Dodgers!!!
Lupe is survived by his daughter Genevieve (Sam), Sons Danny (Nelfa), Richard (Debbie), 10 Grandchildren, 24 Great Grandchildren, 12 Great Great Grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Lola, Sons Ronnie Sr, Greg Sr, Grandson Greg Jr.
Services will begin at 8:30a.m. on Saturday, December 17th, 2022 at San Salvador Church, 4045 Center Street, Piru CA 93040. Internment to follow at Piru Cemetery, 3956 Center Street, Piru CA 93040. To sign the family's online guest book please visit our website: www.santapaulafuneralhome.com and locate Lupe's name in "Recent Obituaries. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Family Owner & Operated Robert Rey Garcia Jr. Funeral Services, Santa Paula, Ca 805.229.7054.

Mary P. Molina (1920-2022)

Mary P. Molina, the eldest of 11 siblings that included 10 sisters and 1 brother, was a remarkable centennial woman who was blessed to see 3 generations of her family beyond her own. Due to the demands of life in her era, she aided her parents, as a teenager herself, in the care of her siblings. In her youth, she was everyone's older sister and developed a pseudo-mother-figure persona very early in life that was filled with genuine affection for wanting the very best for those she cared about, in her own family and community. Within her immediate family, she was a window through the time of the generations before and after her, and the stories she would tell continue to be cherished by the family to this day.
Through the years, Mary's passion for being in the servitude of others led her to seek work for the Piru community while working at the Piru General Store next to her husband, and owner, from the 50s to the 80s. A devout Catholic, Mary's faith guided her into servitude of the San Salvador Mission church since the late 50s as a Sacristan (a Sacristan is an officer charged with the care of the sacristy, the church, and its contents). Mary eventually became a member of the sacred heart society. "Grandma Mary" will be truly missed, and her remarkable life celebrated by the family. Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Ben Molina, and son, Roy Molina, and survived by her son, Danny Molina, her 4 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 3rd 2022. Services will begin at noon at San Salvador Church 4045 Center Street, Piru CA. Interment to follow at Piru Cemetery 3956 Center Street, Piru CA. To sign the family's online guest book please visit our website: www.santapaulahome.com and locate Mary's name 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.

Janet C. Howarth (1931-2022)

A longtime resident of Fillmore, Janet C. Howarth, passed away peacefully on August 29th, 2022 in Santa Barbara at the age of 91.
Janet was born on June 19th, 1931 in Philadelphia, PA, and was the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Walter E. Howarth. She graduated from Frankford High School in Philadelphia in 1949 and moved to Fillmore, CA in August of 1956 when she married her husband, Fred Howarth. They started a family with daughter Joan and son John and lived on their citrus ranch in Bardsdale for over fifty-six years.
While living in Fillmore, Janet was a long-standing member of the Trinity Episcopal Church, and her Christian faith was always the center of her life. In addition, she was actively involved in the Farm Bureau Young People’s Group, the Ebell Club, Job’s Daughters, and other related organizations and activities.
Janet loved her family and spending Summers and Holidays together in Nevada City where the family enjoyed a second home in the Sierra Mountain foothills. Janet also valued the many friendships she had made both in Philadelphia and California and was passionate about staying in touch with everyone by celebrating birthdays and other special occasions.
After the passing of her husband and moving to the Samarkand Retirement Community in Santa Barbara, Janet started a new chapter in her life and spent the next nine years continuing what was important to her; faith, family, and friends. Janet volunteered at The Samarkand’s Chapel where she established many wonderful new friendships. She also continued to stay in touch with her many old friends and enjoyed the love and support of her children.
A loving daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, Janet is survived by her daughter Joan Swift and husband Tim, of Marina del Ray, CA, son John Howarth and wife Barbara, of Granite Bay, CA, grandson Dr. Kyle Howarth, of Dallas, TX, and granddaughter Sara Howarth, a RN in San Francisco, CA. In addition, Janet is also survived by her older sister Jean Latimer, of Cincinnati, OH. Janet’s twin sister, Joan Igler, passed away in 2017.
The family asks that any donations be made in the name of Janet Howarth to further the ministry of Trinity Episcopal Church, PO Box 306, Fillmore, CA 93016.

Kenneth Duane Mittan

Kenneth Duane Mittan, 89, passed away peacefully at his home in Fillmore, on September 16th, 2022. Born in Chadron, Nebraska, Ken lived most of his life in Southern California. Growing up in Torrance, in later years he often recalled that it was an area of farmland, of chickens and rabbits, bordering the busy ports of Long Beach and San Pedro during World War 2. He graduated from the University of Santa Barbara for whom he played baseball, and he also lived and taught in Moorpark. But it was the City of Fillmore, to which he moved with his wife Cathy in 1975, that Ken really called home.
Ken loved life. He brought dedication, passion and humor to everything he did. He loved his family: a kind and devoted husband to Cathy, for fifty-seven years, an adventurous and fun dad to his three children, and the consummate pet-lover, sharing his life with a multitude of cats and dogs over a lifetime.
Ken also loved teaching. He began his career teaching in the National Guard, and was dedicated to his students at Fillmore Junior High and Fillmore High School for over thirty years. Nothing made him happier than to meet former students and to reminisce about hours spent together in the classroom, or perhaps just the few minutes of a conversation which inspired or motivated them for the future.
A raconteur and story-teller, Ken enjoyed playing poker, working with Fillmore Lions Club, and acting and directing with the Sespe Players for many years.
And Ken loved God. He was a member of Trinity Episcopal Church and served his community faithfully.
Ken is survived by his wife Cathy, his children Meghan, Jane, and Mark, and his grandchildren Ethan and Olivia, who brought him so much joy. He will be greatly missed.
A celebration of Ken’s life will be held at Trinity Episcopal Church, Fillmore on November 20th at 2:00 p.m.

Myrna Mae Bartlett Taylor (1929-2022)

Myrna Mae Bartlett Taylor, widow of Walt Taylor, passed peacefully on November 1, 2022 at her home in Bend, OR. Born on April 28th, 1929, Myrna lived a long and full life—sailing, backpacking, hunting, and boogie-boarding, to name a few of her passions. She loved God and her family above all else—leaving behind daughter Pam (Pat) and son Bart (Annalee), as well as 8 grandchildren (Kim, Greg, Christopher, Colin, Bethanna, Esther, David, and Violet) and 14 great grandchildren (Rowan, Adeline Mae, Emanuel, Edmund, Quinton, Sterling, Mercy, Blaze, Coal, Ember, Flint, Phoenix, Walter, and Sterling—with another on the way!).
Myrna lived in Fillmore for over 65 years and was extremely active in many aspects of the community; she was named Fillmore Honorary Citizen of the Year for 2012 for contributions to the town she loved so much.
Anyone wishing to honor Myrna is asked to please donate a new or gently used book to the Fillmore Library or a local school.

Jerry Wayne Edmonds (1942-2022)

Surrounded by his wife of almost 58 years, his two sons and his loyal dog Heidi, Jerry Edmonds graduated from this earth to his heavenly home on the evening of October 13th, the National Day of the Farmer. Born in Morris, Oklahoma he came to California at the age of 17 and found work in the citrus orchards. This was to become his life long occupation. Jerry began his own ranch management business along with mechanically hedging citrus trees and chopping brush in the area. At the same time he was the manager of Southside Improvement Company for the last 55 years supplying irrigation water to the ranchers in Bardsdale he recently retired on September 30th, 2022. As a jack of all trades, along with his wife and brother he owned and operated Edmonds Furniture during the 80’s in downtown Fillmore. For over 10 years he traveled throughout Southern California picking up and delivering furniture and appliances to his customers.
During his life he was active with his kids sports teams coaching T-Ball and Farm League along with serving on the boards of Youth Football, Little League and the Fillmore Athletic Boosters Club. Jerry was also very active in the citrus industry serving on numerous boards over the years. In the community he loved being a member of the Piru Petroleum Club with his friends where many times a year he would help cook for Friday lunches and weekend parties.
He loved traveling and exploring the United States in his motorhome with his wife and made friends wherever he went. He never met a stranger and was always willing to give anyone who needed it a helping hand.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents Harvey & Georgia Edmonds, his brothers Bill & Charles and great niece KaraBeth Whitney. He is survived by his wife Lynda, his sons Brian (Paula) and Brad (Ed), his four grandsons Taylor (Isabella), Evan (Maria), Hayden and Ryan, his great grandchildren Jaxon, Leni & Nico, his sister Pat Bun yard (Bob), his two aunts, Ray Stephenson (102) and Laverne Silvas, in addition to numerous nieces and nephews.
He will be remembered as a loving and generous husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and a great friend to many.
The family would like to thank Drs. Nissen & Osipov of Cedars Sinai Hospital, Barbara and Angela of Hematology Oncology Specialist for their exceptional care over the past 4 years, Dr. Micah Dickey and Bristol Hospice.
A graveside service will be held on Friday, November 25th, 11AM at the Bardsdale Cemetery followed by his “Graduation Party” at the family home in Bardsdale.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to: Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PANCAN Purple Stride Walk Run) The Cedars-Sinai Whipplers Team Captain Nick Nissen at: pancan.org/site/TR/PurpleStride ; to the Light Fund for the “F”, Fillmore Alumni Association, 555 Sespe Avenue, Fillmore, 93015 that Jerry started so the lights may continue to shine or the charity of your choice.

Otto Heinz Klittich (1930-2022)

Otto Heinz Klittich was born August 15th 1930 and passed away October 20th 2022 at the age of 92. He was born in New York where his family was trying to immigrate to the US. At the age of 4 he was sent back to Germany for health reasons to live with his grandparents. His parents came to Germany in 1939 to bring him back to the US but were unable to return because of the beginning of World War II. Otto’s father was conscripted for the war and was never seen again.
Times were challenging in Germany after the war and when Otto was 18, he decided to use his US citizenship and move to Illinois where he had an uncle that had a greenhouse operation. He left his uncle’s employment to work at Electro-Motive a company that built locomotive engines. He also did Landscaping on the side when the weather permitted.
When he was 20, he went with his friend Wally to a local café for dinner. A talkative waitress named Jeanne brought them their dinners and sat down to join them while they ate. The evening got late and she missed her trolley home. Otto offered to drive her home. Along the way, he invited her to a party the next night at Wally’s place. They went to the party and during the night he leaned over and asked her if she would marry him! She said YES! It was love at first sight. Jeanne was 17.
Soon after he was drafted into the army and sent to Korea. While in Korea he had a number of harrowing experiences. One of which earned him a Purple Heart.
While recovering in California he realized that this was a good place to do horticulture. Once release from active service he returned to Illinois and married Jeanne on July 11th 1953. He then moved to California and started Landscape by Otto that served the Los Angeles area.
While landscaping he would collect plants and slowly built a nursery. In 1976 he moved to nursery work full time. They needed a larger space to grow and they rented a property in Sylmar. Still looking to expand they found a 38-acre property in Fillmore.
Over the years all 4 boys worked in landscaping and then the nursery and for one reason or another left to pursue other endeavors. Their 3rd son Scott, returned after college to work in the nursery and took over managing the nursery in 1988. This gave Otto and Jeanne an opportunity to retire and travel to pursue a hobby of his that he never made time for, Precision Bench Rest Shooting.
Otto and Jeanne traveled across the country following shooting matches for over a decade. At one point he was ranked in the top 25 shooters in the US. He was passionate about his sport and made many lifelong friends along the way.
Otto passed away quietly at home with family and friends nearby on October 20, 2022. The family would like to thank the VA for all the excellent care and service that they gave to Otto. There were many caregivers who gave Otto love and support throughout the last few years and we truly appreciate them.
Otto is survived by Jeanne, his wife of 69 ½ years, and their 4 sons, Bob, Bill (Carla), Scott (Cindy), and Karl. Grandchildren: Jeff (Luanna), Kenny, Kristen (Matt), Mena, Danny (Steffani), Andy (Pam), Timmy, and Kayla. Great-Grandchildren: Ethan, Alice, Inez, Bennet, Chase, Luke, Abigail, and Doris.
Otto was never one for funerals but he did like a good party with good beer and German food. The family honored him with just that and many memories were shared and a few made.
If you are inclined to make a donation in his name, woundedwarriorproject was always their favorite charity. His life story and photos are available at - https://ottoandsonsnursery.com/otto-klittich where you could leave a message or memory. A celebration of life is planned for November 12th at 3pm in The Garden at Otto & Sons Nursery, 1835 E. Guiberson Rd, Fillmore.

Sarah “Bunny” Bernice Hansen (1930-2022)

Well known community volunteer Sarah “Bunny” Bernice Hansen (born Bradley) passed away peacefully at her home on October 7th, 2022 just 2 ½ weeks shy of her 92nd birthday. Sarah was born on October 25th, 1930, in Corona, California to parents Bill and Myrtle Bradley. She had two older brothers, Donald, and Alvin.
Sarah graduated from Corona High School in 1947 where she was crowned Miss Corona. During high school, she excelled in many sports as well as fine arts.
After graduation, she started college at the University of Idaho as an Art major and PE minor. A year later, she transferred to University of Oregon to be closer to her older brother who was playing football for U of O’s rival, Oregon State. While at U of O, she was The President of Alpha Omicron Pi sorority, played competitive tennis, softball, and field hockey. She graduated with a BS in 1953.
Following graduation, Sarah taught Art and PE at Oregon City High School near Portland. After 2 years of teaching, she returned to Southern California to pursue a career in Commercial Art. While waiting for doors to open for her in the art world, a world very few women were traversing at the time, she took a job with San Bernadino as a social worker.
During a fishing trip, she met Daryl Hansen and they bonded over their mutual love of fishing, hunting and the outdoors. They were married on Valentine’s Day in 1958 and remained married for 47 years until Daryl’s death. After marrying, Sarah and Daryl moved to Fillmore, beginning their partnership with the family citrus pest control business. They had 3 children, twin daughters Lisa and Lori, and son Tim.
When her children were young, Sarah became a scout troop leader and PTA president. She continued her community involvement by joining Soroptimist and began constructing multiple community outreach programs such as Volunteer Services, Fillmore Bike Path, Imogene Vest Fishing Derby, Tree Planting Projects, the Peace Pole at City Hall, Civic Pride, Relay for Life, Man a Basket and delivering flowers for hospice. This earned her countless accolades including Citizen of the Year two times, a key to the city, and was awarded a GEM membership for her outstanding services in Ventura County. She was an avid walker and encouraged peers to do so by starting a weekly Senior walk. Sarah was also well known for her popular wood carvings that she donated and frequently gave out as gifts to her family and friends. She found her passion for tennis again and played well into her eighties.
Sarah is preceded in death by her husband Daryl, mother Myrtle, father Bill and stepfather Roy Warren, brothers Don and Al, and grandson Nicholas.
She is survived by children Lori (Tom), Lisa, Tim (Sheri), seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and a community that loved her.
We are extremely grateful to her caregivers. With their help, mom was able to come home and live her best life.
A celebration of Sarah’s life will be held on Saturday, November 12th at 10 AM at the historic Bardsdale United Methodist Church, 1498 Bardsdale Ave., Fillmore. Reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Sarah’s name to Soroptimist of Fillmore, PO Box 574, Fillmore, CA 93016.

Jorge Antonio “Cokie” Negrete (1989-2022)

Jorge Antonio “Cokie” Negrete passed away on Friday, September 16, 2022 at the young age of 33. He was born in Ojai, Ca on January 26, 1989. He is preceded in death by his grandfather Jose Negrete.
He is survived by his parents, Jorge Negrete and Rosa Maria Montelongo. His two beloved daughters Kayla Renea and Harper Teressa. His sister Maria Elena Vargas, brothers Samuel Negrete and Ricardo Negrete.
Cokie, as many knew him was kind, generous, and had a great sense of humor. He had a very big heart and left an imprint in many people’s lives.
In lieu of flowers, please be kind to someone, call a friend or relative you haven’t reach out to recently, visit a nursing home resident, Forgive someone.
Visitation will be on Tuesday, October 4, 2022 at Fillmore Veterans Memorial Building-511 2nd St. Fillmore, Ca. from 2:00 pm -8:00 pm Rosary and Mass will be on Wednesday, October 5th 2022 9:30 am at Saint Francis of Assisi Church 1048 Ventura St., Fillmore, Ca. Burial will follow at Bardsdale Cemetery.
To sign the family's online guest book please visit our website:www.santapaulafuneralhome.com and locate Jorge's name 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.

Robert Dennis Berrington (1947-2022)

On September 11, 2022, Robert Dennis Berrington, 75, son of Albert and Ethel Berrington, passed away of natural causes in Chowchilla, California.
He was preceded in death by both of his parents and older brother, Donald Larry Berrington.
Robert was a resident of Leesburg, Florida for the past 11 years and is survived by his wife and high school sweetheart of 57 years, Cheryl.
Robert was born and raised on the family ranch in Fillmore, California. He was a resident of Ventura County until moving to Florida. After graduating high school, he became a self-employed welder. After 27 years on that career path, he changed directions and became a structural inspector. He continued with this career up to the time of his death.
He tried the retired life twice but missed the activity and friends he made on the construction site.
Robert had many hobbies and interests through the years, He liked scuba diving, motorcycles, boating and fishing, flying, and taking his dog Katie for walks around the ranch.
He leaves behind a rich legacy that includes daughter Sandra, son John and his wife Stacey, grandchildren Austin and his wife Alex, Chris, Kendall, Ryan, great-grandchildren Jason, Hayden, Bristol and Braxton, along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
He passed from this life doing what he loved and will be missed by all of us. A service will be held for friends and family at Bardsdale Cemetery on Tuesday, September 27th, at 10:00 AM.

Rundle Lekeith Rhodes (1967-2022)

On Friday, September 9, 2022, Rundle Lekeith Rhodes transitioned into the glorious presence of the Lord. Rundle was born on May 8, 1967.
He accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at an early age at Second New Hope MB Church where he served as an usher. Later he joined St. Paul Baptist Church in Oxnard under the leadership of Bishop B. A. Huggins.
He married Carla on September 24, 1994. Rundle graduated from Moorpark college in 1992. He worked as a produce clerk at Vons for over 27 years. Rundle enjoyed the simple pleasures of watching his favorite teams, San Francisco 49ers and New York Mets. He enjoyed playing softball, football and beating his friends in poker. His smile would light up a room and it was very contagious. Rundle was a great dancer and loved to be silly with his kids. One of his favorite pastimes was to goof around and tease his closest family and friends. Rundle was a wonderful cook. He made the best barbeque ribs, steaks, homemade macaroni and cheese, black eye peas and cornbread.
Rundle was preceded in death by his father Jerry Williams and his brother Christopher Williams. He leaves to cherish his memories with his wife, Carla Rhodes; children Jalen, Anissa, and Amaya Rhodes; mother, Clotea Rhodes; brothers Darrel Williams (Janice) and Jerry Williams, Jr, and sister Tosha Tyson (Tony); Special Aunt; and Uncle, Marie & Jimmy Smith; stepmother Jonnie Williams; special cousin Vivian Edison and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and lots of friends.
Funeral Services are on Thursday, September 22, 2022, at Simply Church, 415 Pearson Road, Port Hueneme, CA. Viewing from 10:00 am to 11:45 am and funeral services begin at 12:00-1:30 pm.

Steve C. Crawford (1953-2022)

Steve Crawford, 69, of Fillmore passed away on Saturday, August 20th, 2022, at his residence with his lovely wife, Jerri, by his side.
Steve was born in Ventura, California on April 23rd, 1953, and lived all his life in Santa Paula and Fillmore.
Steve worked a majority of his life at the family business, Valley Ford Tractor, that his father Don started in 1963. He also dedicated 24 years of his life to volunteering at the Fillmore Fire Department as an EMT, engineer, and captain. Steve was also a long time member of the Fillmore Rotary Club. Steve then ran “the shop” after his fathers passing in 2004 until his retirement on May 5, 2017.
After his retirement he invested his time in managing his avocado ranch, golfing, working on his cobra, and enjoying NASCAR.
Steve is proceeded in death by parents Don (2004) and Peggy (1986) along with his aunt and uncle, Helen and Gene Drew. Steve is survived by his wife Jerri, his son Eric and wife Carina Crawford, grandchildren Kasey and Dylan Crawford, his brother Mike Crawford, his uncle Jon Crawford, his aunt Dorothy Reed, his step mother Jeanette Crawford, sister in law Marry Shepherd, brother in law Bill and wife Linda Root, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, August 30th, at Bardsdale Cemetery.

Jose Negrete Contreras (1940-2022)

Jose Negrete Contreras age 81, of Fillmore passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loved ones on August 20th, 2022. He was born August 23rd, 1940 in San Juan Palmira, Michoacan, Mexico to Francisco Negrete and Maria Del Refugio Contreras. He has 7 siblings. He is preceded in death by his two sons Julio Cesar and Juan Manuel Negrete. He is survived by his wife of 63 years Maria Elena Castaneda, his 7 children: Arnoldo, Jorge, Jose Luis, Francisco, Patricia. He is also survived by his 23 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. Visitation will be at Fillmore Veterans Memorial Building- 511 2nd Street Fillmore, Ca from 7p.m. to 10:30p.m. Funeral Services are under the direction of Robert Rey Garcia Jr., Funeral Services- Santa Paula, Ca.

Theresa Gurrola (1930-2022)

Theresa Gurrola, age 92, passed away on August 1st, 2022. She arrived into this world on May 17th, 1930 born to Jesus and Frances Vasquez in Los Angeles, California.
Theresa spent her youth in Casa Blanca (Riverside, California) until she graduated from Riverside Polytechnic High School. Her family moved to Santa Paula, California in 1949. She met our father, Camilo Gurrola shortly after and they married in November 1952 residing in Fillmore.
Theresa was a homemaker, until her three children were out on their own. Then she began working at Broadway, then after as a teachers aide at Piru Elementary School. Theresa’s longest job was helping her daughter Anna Marie Gurrola, a CPA, in Fillmore as an office manager.
Our mother was diagnosed with a rare Carcinoid Tumor in October 1994. Her cancer doctor gave a timeline of five years to live, but our mother’s determination, courage, and love of God stopped the progression of the tumor.
Theresa is survived by her children Anna Marie Gurrola, Gloria Irene Mendez, and Lawrence Daniel Gurrola. She is also survived by her grandchildren Christine Hernandez, Naomi Qualls, Daniel and Anthony Mendez, and Danielle Gurrola. In addition, she is survived by her 9 great grandchildren with a 10th due in February 2023 and two great great grandsons.
Her favorite pastimes were playing Bingo, Loteria, and any chance to go to a casino. She loved reading, shopping, crossword puzzles, and most of all spending time with family. Family was very important to her and we will all miss her deeply.
Funeral Services are on Tuesday, August 16th, 2022 at St Francis of Assisi in Fillmore with 9:30 a.m. Rosary and 10:00 a.m. Mass. Burial is immediately after at Bardsdale Cemetery.

Garet David Godfrey (1966-2022)

On July 12th, 2022, Garet David Godfrey passed unexpectedly and peacefully at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center. Although we are heartbroken, it brings us comfort knowing that he has been reunited with his mother, Linda Godfrey whom he never stopped longing for.
Garet was born on October 25th, 1966, in Santa Paula, California to Linda Godfrey and Ron Godfrey. He immediately brought love and joy into the lives of his parents and family. Some folks affect countless people in their lifetime, and Garet was one of them. We were all blessed with his genuine kindness, generosity and welcoming spirit.
Garet was an avid trap shooter and won many junior competitions. He volunteered for Ventura County Search & Rescue and had a profound love for hunting and fishing. His professional career consisted of working with the family business farming the lands of Fillmore and Piru with his father, his idol, his best friend, Ron Godfrey and wouldn't be caught anywhere without his sidekick, Bugdog.
Garet was preceded in death by his mother Linda, maternal grandparents Dorothy and Pat Wilson and paternal grandparents Vena and Vancel Godfrey. He is survived by his wife Teresa, daughter Hunter, son Colton, father Ron, Stepmother Debbie, "brother from another mother" Patrick, sister Shannon and brother-in-law Dustin "Blister", brother Tim, niece Calista, great nephew Jasper, uncle and cousins. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.
Friends and family are invited to a "Celebration of Life" on Saturday, August 20th at 2:00 p.m. at Britt Park, located at 3824 Guiberson Road near Piru. Food will be served between 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Larry Jack Cassidy (1981-2022)

Lifelong resident of Fillmore, Larry Jack Cassidy, sadly passed away on July 12, 2022, at the young age of 40. He was born on July 20, 1981. He graduated from Fillmore High School in 1999. He is survived by his parents, Janna and Kelly Cassidy, his siblings, Lacey Hinson and Cody Gilbert Cassidy, and his 10 year old son, Larson Komatsubara Cassidy, as well as other extended family.
He was a wonderful father, a fun uncle, and a well-loved member of the community here in Fillmore. For many years, he participated in The Great Cycle Challenge to raise money for children’s cancer research as well as the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. He was often seen pedaling his bike all over town in his efforts to raise as much money as possible each year. It was so commendable.
Larry was kind, generous, creative, and had a great sense of humor. He had a very big heart. He had a gentle sensitive spirit. He loved nature and spending time outdoors hiking, riding his bike, and hunting for cool rocks. He was an animal lover who always had several rescued pets. He was a collector of many things including comic books, rocks and Legos.
If you were lucky enough to have known Larry, you understand this loss is huge. If you never knew Larry, you missed out on a special person who we will all miss dearly. He touched this earth and left an imprint. Larry will be buried at the Bardsdale Cemetery alongside his grandparents, Larry and Jacqueline Cassidy. The funeral will be held Friday, August 5th at 10am.

James Edward Arundell (1941-2022)

James Edward Arundell, 80, passed away peacefully on July 14th surrounded by family in the home he built in Fillmore, California. Jim was born in Oxnard on October 20, 1941, to Glenn and Jane Arundell. He graduated from Fillmore High School in 1959, attended Ventura College, and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Upon returning to Fillmore, Jim was married to Diane Southwick on August 5, 1967, in the Fillmore Presbyterian Church. Jim and Diane were both lifelong residents of Fillmore and were married just shy of 55 years. They both earned their teaching credentials and taught side-by-side for 30 years.
Jim was a standout football, basketball, and baseball player at Fillmore High School and was later inducted into the Fillmore High School Sports Hall of Fame. He garnered the nickname “Thumper,” for his quickness and big feet. After a season of football at Ventura College, Jim enlisted in the Marine Corps, serving as an aircraft avionics technician in Jacksonville, Florida and Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. Upon discharge from active duty, he worked as a surveyor while earning his teaching credential from California State Northridge. After earning his bachelor’s degree in physical education, he landed a job as a teacher at Piru Elementary School where he taught 5th grade in the same storied classroom for over 30 years. Jim also served as the school’s drama teacher, directing performances of several highly anticipated school plays that were loved by the faculty, parents, and students. During his early years of teaching, he coached Fillmore High girls basketball and assistant coached Fillmore High boys baseball and basketball. Upon starting a school farm at Piru School, Jim was recognized and featured in an interview by KNBC LA local news for being a leader in innovation, dedicated to keeping kids outdoors and teaching them about agriculture, gardening, and caring for livestock. After retiring in 2002, Jim became a full-time grandfather, rancher, mentor, coach, and Dodger fan who could always be found riding a tractor in the sunshine through his avocado orchards in Fillmore.
Jim will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, friend, teacher and coach. He will be greatly missed by his wife, Diane; daughter Jamie and son-in-law, Leroy; daughter Julie and son-in-law, Ian; sister Judy and brother-in-law, Mike; brother Oz and sister-in-law, Barb; sister-in-law Barbara; brother-in-law Gary and sister-in-law, Susan; grandchildren Nohelani, James, Leah, Jackson, and Julianne; his nieces and nephews and great-grandchildren. Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Glenn and Jane; stepmother, Ellen; and his brother, John.
Friends and family are invited to celebrate Jim’s life on Friday, August 12, at 10:00 am at the Bardsdale Cemetery, located at 698 S. Sespe St in Fillmore. A “Celebration of Life” reception will follow at Jamie & Leroy’s residence at 1520 Oak Ave in Fillmore.

LaRoyce Simpson Hicks (1929-2022)

LaRoyceUgene Simpson opened her eyes to the light of the world on November 12, 1929. LaRoyce Simpson Hicks opened her eyes to the light of Heaven on July 1, 2022, joining her husband, family, and friends who went before.
After growing up during the Depression and WWII, she began a life teaching in public school in 1951. On her very first day, she lit the kitchen incinerator in her kitchen in her newlyweds’ apartment, blowing trash all over the ceiling, wall, and her new dress. Sigh…
In 1950 or thereabouts, she met this guy with flaming red hair, on a blind date arranged by a friend, and decided there and then that he was “The One.” Proudly, she cooked “40 Clove Chicken” early on in their marriage, although she thought a “clove of garlic” was the whole thing. The neighborhood enjoyed the redolence of garlic for days…
She LOVED teaching and was good it. In addition to her public school work, she also taught Sunday School and an afternoon program called Good News Club.
A devout Christian her entire life, she taught Good News Club, Mailbox Club, and the adult-oriented Crossroads Prison Ministry all her life. She traveled the world after being widowed, as far away as Thailand and West Africa, in her service to others.
When encroaching age left her unable to travel physically, she doubled down on her written and correspondence work, becoming active in the Wycliffe Bible Translating Society, assisting in many areas.
She was also widely known for her total love of working in her gardens and orchards, running an adorable stand called “Grandma’s Garden” as many as THREE days a week!
This brief writing absolutely cannot express the sheer magnitude of a large life splendidly livedor convey the open-armed love with which she approached the world.
She leaves her three sons, Lloyd, Larry, and Lynn, her daughter-in-law Alicia, and her grandchildren Soleil and Freeman, along with too many other family and friends to county.
Rest in Power, Mom.
Memorial service will be held August 6th, from 12 noon to 3 p.m. at Faith Community Church, 355 D St., Fillmore, CA 93015.