In the morning hours on Wednesday, July 2, 2008, a small light that was the life of RoseMarie Gallardo faded from our sight, with her husband and their children at her side.
Rose, 69, was born on April 23, 1939, in Fillmore, and has been a lifelong resident ever since.
She played in the walnut, avocado and citrus orchards that were Ventura County, graduated from Fillmore High School in 1958 and met the love of her life in 1959.
Rosie and Richard were married on June 11, 1960, and worked hard together in the agricultural industry. Rosie continue her involvement with the community throughout her life by working for the Fillmore Unified School District as a school nurse and continued involvement in the Fillmore Alumni Association and other local organizations. She was the backbone of the family trucking business. With Richard working the truck and Rosie working the books, they provided a comfortable home for their children, Lani Rene, Christina Marie and Richard Edward, friends and family.
Rosie enjoyed traveling, and she and Richard were no strangers to New Mexico, Arizona, Las Vegas, the East Coast, Mexico, Europe and various cruise lines.
Rosie's home knew no strangers, and she enjoyed feeding the neighborhood and making any and all manner of baked goods.
She maintained her determination and personal independence to the end, having the final say in the treatment of her illness.
RoseMarie "Rosie" Gallardo will be missed by daughters Lani (Ken) Farr, Christina (Greg Mauro) Gallardo; son Richard (Stacey) Gallardo; grandchildren Joshua Gross, Samantha and James Farr, Sophia and Amelia Gallardo; along with numerous brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews; very special and close family friend, Millie Shackleford; brother Robert Cruz; and, of course, "Monty," her four-legged friend.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to the American Cancer Society in Rosie's memory would be appreciated by the family.
The family whishes to thank the ICU staff at Ventura County Medical Center, especially night nurse Sue.
A celebration of Rosie will be held at 7 p.m. Sunday, July 6, at Skilllin-Carroll Mortuary. The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Monday, July 7, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, with burial to follow at Bardsdale Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the direction of Skillin-Carroll Mortuary, N. Central Ave., Fillmore, CA 93015; 805-524-0744.