Mary Elizabeth Brittenham
Mary Elizabeth Brittenham, 84, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 17, 2001. Mrs. Brittenham was born Dec. 25, 1916, in Chicago, Ill., and had been a Ventura County resident for 27 years, coming from Redondo Beach. She was a retired social worker in Los Angeles County. She is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, Harry M. "Skip" and Heather Thomas Brittenham and John C. "Bud" and Janis Clark Brittenham; grandchildren, Jill Brittenham (husband, Peter) Hicks, Pamela Brittenham (husband, Eric) Pender, Jay Brittenham, Kristina Lynn Brittenham, Shauna Leigh Brittenham and India Rose Brittenham; and great-granddaughter, Caelyn Elizabeth Pender. A memorial service will be at 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 21, at Pierce Bros. Valley Oaks Chapel, Westlake Village, with the Rev. Jeannie Kim officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Ventura County, 402 Bryant St., Ojai, CA 93023. Arrangements are under the direction of Pierce Bros. Valley Oaks Mortuary, Westlake Village.

Francisca Carmona Reza
On Thursday, Oct. 17, 2001, the Lord took our beloved mother and grandmother, Francisca Carmona Reza. She will be remembered by her family who loved her and will cherish the memories of her life. Francisca was an independent and strong woman who dedicated her life to her children and grandchildren. She worked tirelessly to sustain her family and she loved them all. Francisca believed that strength in character made the foundation of her family. Her strength guided her family through many difficult moments. Francisca was a vision of hope and joy. She held her family united together. Even with her silence, her strength could be felt. Francisca was born Aug. 21, 1911, in Hojuela, Durango, Mexico, to Julian Carmona and Mariana Ruiz de Carmona. She lived in Juarez, Mexico, for many years with her children. She migrated to the United States more than 45 years ago and became an American citizen so she could exercise her right to vote and to fight for justice by participating in the democratic process. Francisca is survived by her children, Victor and Domitila Landeros, Dominga Landeros, Maria Landeros, Librada Landeros, Carmen Landeros and Jose and Luz Carmona; 39 grandchildren; 90 great-grandchildren; eight great-great-grandchildren; and brothers and sisters, Santos Carmona, Julian Carmona, Rosa Carmona and Maria Carmona. Visitation will be from 10 a.m to 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 19, at Garcia Mortuary. Rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 19, at Santa Clara Chapel. Mass will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 20, at Santa Clara Church. Burial will follow at Santa Clara Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Garcia Mortuary. For more information, call (805) 486-9148.

Homer F. Scott
Homer F. Scott died peacefully Sept. 20, 2001, at his home in Thousand Oaks at the age of 69, after a courageous battle with cancer. "Scott" was born Jan. 23, 1932, in Montebello, Calif., to Eber and Mary Scott. He attended North Hollywood High School and served as a machinist in the United States Navy during the Korean War. After his discharge, Homer and a partner purchased San Val Tool and Die Co. in the San Fernando Valley, where he continued his creative passion for his work. He soon became sole owner of San Val Tool and Die, now San Val Precision, located in Moorpark since 1985. Homer showed love and leadership in many ways. He served on the Conejo Valley Unified School Board for six years and was a member of the Rotary Club for many years. Homer enjoyed traveling in Mexico, originally to help build schools and hospitals with the Rotary Club and later to vacation in Puerto Vallarta. He also enjoyed deep-sea fishing, sitting on the porch at the family's lakeside cabin, fine red wine and a good cigar. Homer was a loving and supportive husband, father and grandfather. His love, good humor and keen wit will be missed by everyone who knew him. Survivors include his wife, Linda; sons and daughters-in-law, Wes and Margie Scott, Tim Johnson and Lisa Taggart, Scott and Leeann Johnson and Mark Scott; daughters and sons-in-law, Karen and Brian Butler, Elizabeth and Jonathan Adams and Maria Aragon; and nine grandchildren. A private memorial is planned at the family cabin near Lake Tahoe. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to Hospice of the Conejo or the American Cancer Society.

Olivia F. Mares
Olivia F. Mares of Oxnard died Tuesday, Oct. 16, 2001, at Community Memorial Hospital in Ventura. Olivia was born Sept. 27, 1964, in Ocotlan, Jalisco, Mexico. She had been a resident of Oxnard since 1986. She loved cooking and gardening. She also owned Senor Churro, which she ran with her husband. She was a devoted wife and mother of three. She is survived by her husband, Miguel Mares; and children, Joanna, Brian and Shawn. She will be remembered and missed by her parents, Carmen L. and Francisco Flores; brothers, Esteban, Roberto, Raul, Francisco and Jose Luis; and sisters, Maria and MariaGuadalupe. Visitation will be from noon to 9 p.m. with a ceremony at 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 19, at Garcia Mortuary. A funeral ceremony will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 20, at Garcia Mortuary, with burial to follow at Ivy Lawn Memorial Park, 5400 Valentine Road, Ventura, (805) 642-1055.

Theresa Emma Wood
Mrs. Theresa E. "Terri" Wood of Asheville, N.C., passed away on Sunday, Oct. 14, 2001, at 9:45 EDT at the Solace Center of Mountain Area Hospice after a lengthy battle with cancer. Terri was a native of Naples, Italy, coming to this country at age 12. She was the daughter of the late Gino and Maria Fabrocini and became a naturalized American citizen of the United States at age 21. Terri was a registered nurse at St. John's Regional Medical Center in Oxnard and continued her career in western North Carolina at Asheville Gastroenterology until retiring in 1998. She is survived by her husband of 21 years, William R. "Bill" Wood of Asheville, N.C.; daughters, Joni Moffett and her husband Andy of Fletcher, N.C., and Sandra Bornfeld of Ventura; and son, Dan Bornfeld and his wife Sherrine of San Clemente, Calif. Terri is also survived by her first husband, friend and father of her three children, Dr. Ab Bornfeld of Ventura. Terri has two stepsons who survive her, Brian Wood and his wife Kathy of Camarillo and Paul Wood and his wife Heather of Ventura; and grandchildren, Alex Hurlbut (son of Sandy Bornfeld), Emily Wood (daughter of Brian and Kathy Wood) and Addison Wood (daughter of Paul and Heather Wood). A graveside memorial committal service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 22, at Ivy Lawn Memorial Park, 5400 Valentine Road, Ventura. In lieu of flowers and in honor of Terri, it is requested by family that memorials be made to Mountain Area Hospice, 85 Zillicoa St., Asheville, NC 28801 Williams Funeral Home of Asheville, N.C., will be assisting the family.

David Ralph Houghton
David Ralph Houghton, native of San Francisco and a resident of Camarillo for more than 10 years, died unexpectedly Sept. 28, 2001, at his home in Austin, Texas, at the age of 61. Mr. Houghton came to Camarillo as a naval aviator stationed at Point Mugu and San Nicolas Island. He resided in Camarillo with his family until after his retirement from the Navy in 1981. After retirement, he was the general manager for Leisure Village in Camarillo, worked for Westin Hotels in Los Angeles and then moved with Marriott Corp. as facilities manager for various sites. At the time of his death, Mr. Houghton was employed by Verio Inc., in Austin, Texas, as facilities manager. He is survived by his sons, David Houghton of Tiburon, Calif., Michael Houghton of San Francisco and Patrick Houghton of San Diego, all of whom graduated from Camarillo schools. Dave is also survived by one granddaughter, Brooke Whaley-Houghton (Michael's daughter); mother, Lois Houghton of Carlsbad, Calif.; and sister, Carol Pearson of Carlsbad, Calif. Graveside military services will be at noon Saturday, Oct. 20, at Eternal Hills Memorial Park in Carlsbad, Calif. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his memory to the American Red Cross Liberty Disaster Relief Fund, 2218 Pershing Drive, Austin, TX 78723.

Joanna M. Pettit-Harrigan
Joanna M. Pettit-Harrigan of Roseville, Calif., passed away peacefully at home Oct. 11, 2001, at the age of 35. Joanna was a loving wife to her husband, Sean Harrigan, as well as a wonderful mother to her sons, Clayton, Colin and Coleman. She is also survived by her grandfather, William Pettit; grandmother, Delphine Ortiz; parents, John and Julia Pettit; sisters Jean (husband, Michael) Gifford, Julie Ann Pettit and Janet (husband Ross) Mantel; brothers, John (wife Catherine) Pettit, and James (wife Delia) Pettit; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her infant daughter, Delphine Eva Harrigan, and grandfather, Mike Ortiz. Rosary will be recited at 9:30 a.m. with Mass to be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 19, at Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Oxnard. Burial will immediately follow at Santa Clara Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Harrigan Children Fund, Attn: Jennifer Krames, Wells Fargo Bank, 23701 Calabasas Road, Calabasas, CA 91302. Joanna's family and close friends will forever keep her memory in their hearts.

Juli A. (Beneke) Ball
Juli A. (Beneke) Ball, 30, was born March 17, 1971, at Los Robles Hospital in Thousand Oaks, and went home to be with her Lord on Saturday, Oct. 6, 2001, at Hanford Community Hospital. She was a county resident for 22 years, graduated from Newbury Park High School in 1989, was a homemaker and a self-employed professional hairdresser with Fashion Statement Salon. She resided with her husband, Allan Ball, and her 3-year old son, Nolan, at the Naval Air Station in Lemoore, Calif. Juli is survived by her husband, Allan Ball; son, Nolan; brother, Tom and wife Gloria; and parents, Annette and Bill Beneke. A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 27, at the Evangelical Free Church, 999 Rancho Conejo Blvd., Newbury Park, CA, (805) 498-6613, with Pastor Steve Larson officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Susan G. Komer Breast Cancer Foundation, P.O. Box 605309, Dallas, TX 75265-0309; or the Navy and Marine Corps Relief Society, 930 Franklin Ave., Room 212, Naval Air Station Lemoore, CA 93246-5012.

Hans L. Thomsen
Hans L. Thomsen passed away Oct. 14, 2001, in Simi Valley. Mr. Thomsen was born in Kimballton, Iowa, on April 2, 1914, and had been a Ventura County resident for 12 years. Mr. Thomsen was a Navy veteran, having served his country during World War II and for a total of 20 years. He also worked for the Glendale Unified School District for 20 years. He is survived by his wife, Agnes; children, Jane Skow, Frank Thomsen and Mary Attwell. He was the loving grandfather to Brian Skow, Jennifer McCommon, Jared Attwell, Dana Thomsen and Christina Thomsen. He was a great-grandfather to Wyatt and Alyssa Skow and Madison McCommon. He was a friend to all who knew him. Hans was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Simi Valley. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 19, at Trinity Lutheran Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer's Association of Ventura County, 1339 Del Norte Road, Camarillo, (805) 485-5597.

Bobby Joe Corder
Bobby Joe Corder of Albany, Ore., died Tuesday, Oct. 9, 2001, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Corvallis, Ore. Mr. Corder was born in Abilene, Texas, the son of Jack and Ada V. Corder. He grew up in Abilene, Texas, and Oxnard. He married Brenda Joyce Brown on July 16, 1960, in Las Vegas, Nev. Mr. Corder was a senior systems analyst for Douglas County, Roseburg, Ore., from 1969 to 1984. He was the director of data processing for Linn County from 1984 until his retirement in 1993. Mr. Corder had been an enthusiastic hunter and fisherman and especially enjoyed the beauty of the Umpqua River. He loved to garden and grew many types of garlic, which he shared with friends and family. He was an avid reader and loved a good book. He enjoyed many vacations at Winchester Bay, Ore., with his family and he enjoyed the winters that he spent in Yuma, Ariz. Surviving are his wife, Joyce; daughter, Charissa of Mission, British Columbia, Canada; son, Steven of Albany, Ore.; brother, Bill of Roswell, N.M.; and granddaughters, Caitlynn and Kelsey of Albany, Ore. He was preceded in death by his mother, Ada V.; father, Jack; and brother, Jack.

Julie Villa Cardenas
Julie Villa Cardenas, 35, loving mother, daughter and sister, passed away Oct. 11, 2001. Julie was born June 3, 1966, in Santa Paula to Albert Villa and Lucy Alcoser. She was a lifelong resident of Ventura County. Julie graduated from Santa Paula High School in 1984 and attended Ventura Community College. She worked for the Santa Paula Times and the Santa Paula School District. Julie worked for the Santa Paula School District for 15 years until her death. She was very involved with the local sports programs in Santa Paula. She was a team mother for her daughter, Ana, in T-ball baseball and basketball, and most recently coached for daughter Ana's soccer team. There was never a sport too big for Julie to tackle. In the last several years, Julie served on the board of directors for the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO). Julie currently held the position of registrar for AYSO in Santa Paula. During Julie's many years at the Santa Paula School District she was very instrumental in establishing programs for computers. One such program was Writing to Read. This program is currently used today throughout the Santa Paula School District. Julie is survived by her loving daughter, Ana Carmen Garcia; loving companion, Pablo Garcia; parents, Albert and Lucy Villa; brother, Larry Villa; sisters, Dolores and Elias Valenzuela, Ramona and Ernesto Medrano, all of Santa Paula; and grandmother, Virginia Alcocer of Fillmore. Julie also leaves to cherish her memory her nephews, nieces, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Visitation will be from noon to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 17, at the Church of Angels in Santa Paula, at Sixth and Pleasant streets, Santa Paula. Rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 17, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Santa Paula. Holy Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 18, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Santa Paula. passed away peacefully at his home and went to be with our Lord and Savior on Oct. 10, 2001, at the age of 75. Eduardo was born on Jan. 2, 1926, in San Luis Potosi, Mexico. He then lived in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, until he came to California in 1960. He has been a resident of Ventura for 41 years. Eduardo worked in construction and for Ortega Foods until his retirement in 1987. His favorite pastimes were fishing, gardening, carpentry, horse racing, and farming in his ranch in Baja California. Eduardo was such a charismatic man, he touched everyone who knew him. Eduardo will be deeply missed by his family and friends. He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Concepcion Hernandez; daughters and sons-in-law, Maricela and Clyde Weems of Truckee, Calif., Esther Guerra and Armando C. Bravo, and Letty Hernandez; sons and daughters-in-law, Eddie Hernandez and Beckie Ayala, Joel and Marta Hernandez, Jose Luis Hernandez, Jorge Hernandez and Raquel Estrada; grandchildren and granddaughters-in-law, Ezequiel and Rosemary Hernandez, Octavio and Nicole Guerra, Cynthia Hernandez, Eddie Hernandez III, Nicolas Hernandez, Theresa Hernandez, Amanda Hernandez, Jessica Hernandez, Christopher Hernandez, Vanessa Ramos, Cesar Bravo, David Bravo, Ana Nunez, and Danny Nunez; great-grandchildren, Christiana and Jacob, all of Ventura County; sisters, Concepcion Garcia, Marta Tamayo and Petra Martinez of San Diego, and Rosa Benitez of Chicago, Ill.; brothers, Pedro Hernandez, Emilio Hernandez, Edmundo Galvan of Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, and Teodoro Hernandez of Ventura County; and countless nieces and nephews. Friends are welcome to visit beginning at 10 a.m., with a rosary being recited at 7 p.m., Monday, Oct. 15, at Garcia Mortuary, 629 South A St., Oxnard. Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 16, at St. Anthony's Church. He will be laid to rest in Santa Clara Cemetery after the religious services. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Garcia Mortuary in Oxnard, (805) 486-9148.

Joe E. Torrez
Joe E. Torrez, 62, of Oxnard passed away Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2001, at St. John's Regional Medical Center after a lengthy illness. Joe was born Dec. 1, 1938, in Ventura County to Elpidia and Guadalupe Torrez. Joe is survived by his wife of 42 years, Ramona Torrez; son and daughter-in-law, Richard and Leticia Torrez; daughter and son-in-law, Mary Torrez-Perez and Joe Perez; daughters, Patricia Torrez and Leticia Torrez; grandchildren, Rudy Jr., Erik and Kevin Ordonez and Richard Jr. and Erica Torrez and Christina and Juan C. Flores Jr.; sister, Connie Avila; brother, Ramon Torrez; and many nephews and nieces. Joe's family will forever remember him as a wonderful man who loved his family and enjoyed spending time with all of them. Joe enjoyed collecting coins and listening to his favorite oldies music and rancheras. Visitation will be from 3 to 6 p.m. with rosary to be recited at 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 13, at Garcia Mortuary. Private family inurnment will take place at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Garcia Mortuary, (805) 486-9148.

Jerry R. 'Coyote' Villarreal
Jerry R. "Coyote" Villarreal, 68, passed away Sept. 3, 2001. Coyote was born April 1, 1933, in Culver City and had been a resident of Ventura County for 33 years. He worked as a handyman. Coyote has been a survivor for many years. I'll miss you, my darling.

Adele G. Rosenbluth
Adele G. Rosenbluth, 68, of Port Hueneme died Oct. 10, 2001, at home in the arms of her family. Adele was born March 14, 1933, in Philadelphia, Pa. She was a graduate of Drexel University in Philadelphia. Adele resided in Port Hueneme for 14 years. She was president of Port Hueneme Friends of the Library and had permanently endowed the Rosenbluth Family Homework Center at the library. Adele and her husband, Murray, were the Port Hueneme Chamber of Commerce's citizens of the year in 1998. Adele was past president of Marlborough Seaside Village Homeowners Association in Port Hueneme. She was a member of Hueneme Beautiful, Friends of the Bard Mansion and the Women's Navy League of the United States. Adele was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in the year 2000 and the California Democratic Convention in 2001. She first became involved in Democratic politics during Adlai Stevenson's campaign for president in 1952. Over the years she held important campaign and staff positions for other Democratic candidates and officeholders. She was instrumental in having two school bond issues overwhelmingly passed in Port Hueneme. Adele was a certified travel consultant, gaining professional expertise by residing for several years in Oxford, U.K. and Brussels, Belgium, as well as several locations in the United States. Many years were spent in Cincinnati, Ohio. She moved a total of 17 times during her 48-year marriage. She owned and managed her own small business as well as managing departments of larger businesses. She is survived by her husband, Murray Rosenbluth; daughter, Ellen Rosenbluth; sons, Harry and Joshua Rosenbluth; granddaughter, Emma Rosenbluth; grandson, Jacob Rosenbluth; and brother, Edward Goldman. A memorial service will be at 1 p.m. Monday, Oct. 15, at Port Hueneme Community Center, 550 Park Ave., Port Hueneme, (805) 986-6542. Memorial contributions may be made to the Rosenbluth Family Homework Center c/o Friends of the Port Hueneme Library, P.O. Box 532, Port Hueneme, CA 93044-0532.

Richard Ponting
Richard Ponting, 69, of Ridgecrest passed away Monday, Oct. 8, 2001, from natural causes. Richard was born March 5, 1932, in Pomona, Calif., and had been a resident of Camarillo. He was retired, having worked as a lineman for Southern California Edison for 35 years. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1951 to 1955. Richard was an avid fisherman who loved the outdoors. "Baby Ducks" enjoyed his job climbing poles with SCE and he never met a stranger. He nicknamed the girlfriends of his daughters and granddaughters, "Curly," and all dogs were known as "Peanuts." Richard was loved and will be missed by so many. He was preceded in death by his twin brother, Gerald Ponting, and parents, John H. and Erma M. Ponting. Richard is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law, Peggie and Robert Jarrett of Ridgecrest and Dale and Lee Hatton of Newhall; brother, Donald Ponting of Huntington Beach; and grandchildren, Donnie, Lindsay and Rebecca Crutcher, Rendi Jarrett and Whittney Jarrett. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 11, at Holland and Lyons Chapel. A funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 12, at Crossroads Community Church, Ridgecrest, with Bill Corley officiating. There will be military graveside rites by the U.S. Navy Honor Guard. Burial will be at Desert Memorial Park, Ridgecrest. Arrangements are by Holland and Lyons Mortuary.

Joseph Louis Villa
Joseph Louis Villa, 50, of Oxnard passed away Oct. 9, 2001, in Oxnard. Joseph was born March 2, 1951, in Illinois to Jose Villa and Josephine Martinez. A 41-year county resident, Joseph was employed by St. Francis Cooling Co. as a forklift operator. Joseph was a product of local schools, which included Fremont Intermediate and Oxnard High School. His interests included building models, music, dancing and watching wrestling, especially his favorite wrestler "The Rock." Joseph was always a giving person and will be missed by his entire family and all of his friends. He is survived by his daughter, Lisa M. Avalos; mother, Josephine Martinez Villa; brothers and sisters, Ralph (wife, Suki) Martinez of Oxnard, Tony (wife, Sandra) Villa of Oxnard, Arthur (wife, Rachel) Villa of Ventura, Jerry (wife, Diana) Villa of Oxnard, Mario (wife, Guadalupe) Perez of Oxnard, Nancy (husband, Michael) Barbarine of Oxnard and Sandra Villa of Grass Valley, Calif.; and three grandchildren.
I'm Free
Don't grieve for me,
For now I'm free.
I'm following the path
God laid for me.
I took His hand when I heard him call.
I turned my back and left it all.
I could not stay another day
To laugh, to love, to work or play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way.
I found that peace at the close of day.
If my parting has left a void
Then fill it with remembered joy.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss,
Ah yes, these things, I too, will miss.
Be not burdened with times of sorrow.
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life's been full, I've savored much.
Good friends, good times,
A loved one's touch.
Perhaps my time seemed all too brief.
Don't lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your heart and share with me.
God wanted me now.
He set me free.
-- author unknown
Friends are welcome to visit beginning at 2 p.m. with rosary to be recited at 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 14, at Garcia Mortuary Chapel in Oxnard. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 15, at St. Anthony's Church in Oxnard. passed away Friday, Oct. 5, 2001, at Mercy Hospital in Bakersfield. Mr. Rozar was born Sept. 3, 1927, in Plant City, Fla. He was a plumbing contractor and enjoyed hunting and fishing throughout the United States. He is survived by his sons, Charles Rozar of Fayetteville, Tenn., Craig Rozar and Guy Rozar of Bakersfield; and grandchildren, Charla, Tanna and Tristin Rozar. Mr. Rozar was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy Brazelton Rozar, and brother, R.E. Rozar. A celebration of the life of Charles William Rozar will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 13, at his home in Ventura, (661) 589-5564 or (805) 642-1156. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to American Cancer Society.

Sergio Arthur Torres Sr.
Sergio Arthur Torres Sr., 45, of Oxnard passed away Oct. 6, 2001. Sergio was born July 1, 1956, in Nayarit, Mexico. He was employed for four years with Morley Construction in Santa Monica as a crane operator and had been a county resident for 35 years. He is survived by his wife, Emily Torres; children, Joyce Torres, Artie (wife, Eva) Torres, Frankie (wife, La Toya) Torres and Anthony Torres; mother, Rosario Torres; grandchildren, Lael Perkins, Sabrina and Tiffany Torres; brothers and sisters, Elias, Cesar, Ruben, Eddie, Carlos, Jaime and Manuel Torres, Elvia, Bertha, Alicia, Rosario and Lourdes. Sergio was preceded in death by his father, Elias Torres Sr. Friends are welcome to visit from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 12, at Garcia Mortuary Chapel in Oxnard. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Garcia Mortuary, 629 South A St., Oxnard, (805) 486-9148.

Jesus J. Gomez
Jesus J. Gomez, 50, of Fillmore passed away Oct. 5, 2001, in Las Vegas, Nev. Jesus was born Oct. 31, 1950, in California to Honoratio and Gloria Gomez. Jesus had been a 45-year county resident and had been employed as a nurse's aide for five years. His family will forever remember him as a good man who loved his family and enjoyed spending time with all of them. He was also an excellent cook and loved to listen to his favorite oldies music. Jesus is survived by his wife of 23 years, Chistina Gomez; children, Jesse Gomez Jr., Michelle Gomez and Alex Gomez; mother, Gloria Chavez; stepfather, Ralph Chavez; brothers and sisters, Raymond Gonzalez of Santa Paula, Salvador Gomez of Diamond Bar, Richard Guzman of Corona, Ralph Chavez of Whittier, Raul Chavez of Santa Paula, Rosemary Blair of Utah, Virginia Kadaguchi of Buena Park, Dolores Gonzales of Santa Paula, Gloria Velasquez of Lakewood, Mary Alice Allison of Lakewood, Lupe Garcia of Santa Paula; grandchildren, Selena M. Medina, Anthony P. Gomez, Sierra M. Medina; and nieces, nephews and cousins. Jesus was preceded in death by his daughter, Melissa M. Gomez; brother, Robert Gomez; and father, Honaratio Gomez. Friends are welcome to visit from 10 a.m. until rosary is recited at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 11, at Garcia Mortuary Chapel in Oxnard. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 12, at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Fillmore. married his high school sweetheart, Connie Berkenpas, in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' Salt Lake City Temple. Immediately after, they moved to Ventura County, taking employment at the Saticoy meat processing plant. He spent the next 21 years working in all aspects of the meat business from truck driver to owner. Ron best enjoyed his role as livestock buyer for Holley Livestock Co., as it allowed him to travel to remote Western ranges and spend time with herdsmen and ranchers. Although he eventually changed careers, the cowboy never rode out of his heart. In 1978, Ron ventured into a new partnership with his good friend, the late Bob Arbon of U-Rent Inc. Together they established Ventura Rental. For the next 23 years his work in the rental industry gave Ron the excitement of a new adventure, where he could use his common "horse sense." It also enabled him to involve his family members. His independent leadership style was immediately recognized by his peers with several elections as president and vice president of the local chapter of the California Rental Association. He also served the Boy Scouts of America in many leadership positions throughout his adult life, molding the lives of scores of young men. Ron gave a lifetime of service to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He held many positions of trust and responsibility, including that of high priest. More than any other accomplishments, his most cherished is as a devoted husband, loving father and tender and affectionate grandfather. Ron leaves a great legacy of optimism, fun, humor and love. According to Ron, every day is a great day. He is survived by his loving wife, Connie. He also leaves four daughters and sons-in-law, Laurie and John Maddux of Camarillo, Suzette and Ted Cook of Ventura, Heidi and Mike Whitcomb of Ojai and Michele and Matt Carr, also of Ventura. Additionally, he is survived by six sisters, Maralyn Baird Scott, Kay Scott and Janet Jensen of Salt Lake City, Phyllis Black of Payson, Utah, Perry Wright of Lava, Idaho, and Natalie Gaddis of Chicago, Ill.; and grandchildren, Austin, Scott and Tanner Maddux of Camarillo, Kristin, Perry, Sara and Stephen Cook of Ventura, Ashley, Ryan and Tyler Whitcomb of Ojai, and David and Nicole Carr of Ventura. Ron was preceded in death by his mother, Mildred Spafford Graham; father, John Perry Holley; and granddaughters, Emily Kathryn Cook and Jessica Holley Carr. There is an open invitation for viewing from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 11, at Ted Mayr Funeral Home, 3150 Loma Vista Road, Ventura. A funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 12, at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3501 Loma Vista Road, Ventura. Burial will follow at Ivy Lawn Memorial Park, 5400 Valentine Road, Ventura. Donations may be made to the American Red Cross for disaster relief in New York. Arrangements are under the direction of Ted Mayr Funeral Home, Ventura.

Robert C. Anderson
Robert C. "Bob" Anderson died Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2001. Bob was born in Idaho Falls, Idaho, on July 18, 1930. He was raised in Inglewood, Burbank and Van Nuys. He graduated from Van Nuys High School in 1948. Bob joined the U.S. Army and fought in the Korean War. In 1955, he proudly joined the Los Angeles City Fire Department. He worked his way through the ranks and retired in 1982 as a battalion chief. In addition to being a fireman, he was a licensed contractor and an expert cabinetmaker. An avid fisherman, "Wahoo" Bob enjoyed local ocean fishing and loved his long-range trips out of San Diego and annual halibut trips to Sitka, Alaska. Bob was a member of the Los Angeles City Chief Officers Association; American Legion; Ventura County Sportfishing Club, where he served as vice president and charter master; and the Pacific Coast Pekingese Club, as well as being an avid bowler, bowling at Harley's Simi Bowl on Practice Pairs and Alley Cat leagues. On Sept. 27, 1986, he married Susie Majesky of Dundee, Wis. He is survived by his wife and best friend, Susie, as well as their "kids"; brother-in-law, Monty Majesky and wife Missy of Palmdale; mother and stepfather, Ruth and Mark Paulos of Oceanside; and brother, Boyd of Texas. Bob was preceded in death by his brother, Orion. Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 10, at St. Julie Billiart Catholic Church in Newbury Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Bob's name can be sent to L.A. City Fire Department's Widow and Orphans Fund, P.O. Box 26920, Los Angeles, CA 90026; or Pekingese Rescue Charitable Foundation, c/o Ms. Barbara Streemke, 5610 E. 10th St., Sioux Falls, SD 57110.

Francisco S. Aguilar
Francisco S. Aguilar lost a courageous battle against cancer on Oct. 2, 2001. Mr. Aguilar was born Nov. 3, 1932, in Michoacan, Mexico. He was a 40-year resident of Ventura County and proprietor of Modern Upholstery in Oxnard and Camarillo. He is survived by his loving wife, Ana; children, Rachel and Mariela of Chula Vista, Renato, Juan Carlos, Ana Lilia, Federico, Francisco Jr., Omar, Vanessa, Christian and Leslie Marie of Oxnard; and grandchildren, Melody, Ariel, Candice, Jacqueline, Miranda, Zoe, Alessa and Audrey. He leaves behind his beloved mother, Amalia, and siblings Guadalupe, Baudelia, Celia, Raquel, Jose, Teresa and Apolinar. His sense of humor and generosity were well-known to all whose lives he touched. He will be deeply missed by all. Friends are welcome to visit beginning at 2 p.m. with rosary to be recited at 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 7, at Garcia Mortuary Chapel in Oxnard. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 8:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 8, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, 500 N. Juanita Ave., Oxnard. married to Elder Patterson and they traveled from Oklahoma to El Paso, Texas, praying and working out of churches until Elder Patterson's death. Annie continued her work in the missionary field. Other churches were founded in Grant, Okla.; El Paso, Texas; and Albuquerque, N.M. Some of these churches are still standing today. Annie was a diligent worker for the Lord. She worked in the auxiliaries of the church such as prayer and Bible band, Sunday school, home and foreign missions and the evangelist department. Mother Alexander was also blessed to become a district missionary. She was later married to Cordell Alexander, who preceded her in death. The loss of a mate was not a detour to her call from God. She continued traveling and sharing the gospel with all those who would receive her. To be close to her baby, Anita Elizabeth, more affectionately known as Peaches, she moved to California. While in California, she united with the Tried Stone Church of God in Christ under the leadership of the late Elder C.L. Qualls. She was a worker in the local, district and region. Most of us here today can testify about the revivals. Mother Alexander taught Sunday school; ran revivals, local, district and regional; worked with the Mothers Board and the Evangelist Board. She attended morning prayer and worked with the seekers. Mother Alexander was yet a member of the Tried Stone Church of God in Christ under the leadership of Superintendent E.L. White. She ran some revivals and traveled across the country on the Greyhound bus. Mother Alexander worked until the day was done. She worked until the Lord called her home to rest. Mother Alexander touched many lives and because she lived, many learned the joy that comes with knowing Jesus as a deliverer and savior. We know how to appreciate God and love Him for who He is, not for what He can give. She leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Anita Elizabeth Biddings of Oxnard; granddaughter, Patricia Lee Hunyon of Detroit, Mich.; great-grandchildren, Marvin Lamar Jones of Oxnard, Robert Anthony Jones of Oxnard, Elaine Williams of Los Angeles, Michael Jackson of Sacramento, John Earl Jackson of Sacramento, Elizabeth Jackson of Detroit, Mich., Bobby Jackson of Detorit, Mich., and Robin Jackson of Oxnard; 25 great-grandchildren and a host of friends and church family. A thank-you goes out to Sister Ethelene Just, who took Mother to doctor's appointments when she was physically able. The family would like to extend a special thank-you to Sister Mary Anger, who took special care of Mother Alexander and demonstrated love in action. Thanks is extended to all of the saints for their continuous prayers. A service will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, at Tried Stone Church of God in Christ, 1350 E. Channel Islands Blvd. Arrangements are under the direction of Garcia Mortuary, (805) 486-9148.

Valerie Lee Runyan
Valerie Lee Runyan, 61, got her wings Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2001, while at home in Camarillo, after a two-year battle with cancer. In passing, she was surrounded by close friends and loved ones. Valerie was born Nov. 30, 1939, in Los Angeles to Bob and Sadie Rankin. After graduating from San Jose State, she returned to Southern California and worked as a schoolteacher and music instructor. In 1962, she married Gary Runyan and proceeded to raise two children. In 1975, the family settled in Camarillo, where Valerie remained a homemaker and music teacher. Valerie loved to sing. She was a member of Sweet Adelines for 23 years, performing in a variety of chapters throughout the Ventura County area. She was most recently a part of Agoura Hills Harmony Chorus. Her passion for vocal harmony was such that she also sang lead in several quartets over the years. Some of the people she met through singing remained her closest lifelong friends. Valerie was a woman of incredible strength and determination, traveling to Sydney, Australia, to see her daughter compete in the Olympic Games last year and entertaining her grandchildren, whom she adored, well into her final days. Though her warm and caring presence will be dearly missed, Valerie's indomitable spirit lives on in everyone she has known and touched.
I believe in mystery
And miracles and the magic
Of a new day
I believe in angels
And natural wonders
And the beauty inside people
I believe in rainbows
And happy endings
And dreams-come-true
-- Anonymous, from Valerie's kitchen
Valerie is survived by her devoted husband, Gary; son, Grady; daughter, Marla; daughter-in-law, Lori Hamor; granddaughters, Odessa and Abilene; father, Bob Rankin; sister, Janis Knott; nieces, Melissa Knott and Melody Knott; nephews, Jeff and Jason Knott; and many other relatives and friends. Memorial services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, at Pierce Bros. Griffin Mortuary, 1075 Daily Drive, Camarillo.

Gloria Antonia Allard
Gloria Antonia Allard (nee Baca) passed into the arms of God on Oct. 2, 2001. Her daughter, Carmen Allard, and goddaughter, Gloria Allen, were at her bedside. Gloria was born Jan. 17, 1924, in El Oro, Mexico. Gloria married Lucien Allard in Toluca, Mexico, on Aug. 5, 1956. They immediately relocated to St. Boniface, Manitoba, Canada. Her first three children were born there between 1957 and 1960. They then relocated to Wheatland, Calif. (near Sacramento) in 1961. The family relocated to Simi Valley, where they have been residents in the same house since 1962, and her fourth child was born. She enjoyed extensive traveling, shopping, garage-saling and the company of her family and friends. She was a parishioner of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, where she frequently attended the 1 p.m. Spanish Mass. She was predeceased by her loving daughter, Linda, and parents, Joaquin Baca and Luz V. de Baca. Survivors include her husband, Lucien A.J. Allard; sons, Anthony and Richard; daughter, Carmen; brother, Joaquin Eduardo Baca; sisters, Perla Nelson and Coral Baca; and grandchildren, Jake and Luke Allard. Visitation will be from 5 to 9 p.m. with rosary to be recited Friday, Oct. 5, at Reardon Simi Valley Mortuary, (805) 526-6677. Funeral Mass will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, at St. Rose of Lima, 1305 Royal Ave. There will be no graveside service. If desired, donations may be made to Vitas Hospice, (800) 757-4242.

Ramon Ascencio Romero
Ramon Ascencio Romero passed away Sept. 30, 2001, at St. John's Regional Medical Center in Oxnard. Ramon was born Dec. 2, 1935, in Mexico. He was a field supervisor for Dole Fresh Vegetables for 40 years. He was a Ventura County resident for 54 years. Ramon enjoyed working on his home. He enjoyed collecting trinkets. He loved to watch Bugs Bunny cartoons. His inspiration was silent but strong. We always knew he was there. We will all just carry a small piece of him and remember his love. We will treasure his memories and he will live forever in our hearts. Ramon is survived by his wife, Francisca Matilde Ascencio-Romero; son, Ramon Romero of Camarillo; daughters, Eulalia Romero of Fullerton, Elizabeth Romero of Oxnard and Veronica Romero of Oxnard; brothers, Arturo Romero and Jesus Romero; and sisters, Agapita Romero and Esperanza Romero. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. with rosary to be recited at 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 5, at Garcia Mortuary. Mass will be celebrated at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Oxnard. Burial will follow at Santa Clara Cemetery. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Garcia Mortuary.

Eli Tarquinio
Eli Tarquinio, 92, of Gridley, Calif., passed away Sept. 21, 2001, at Oroville Hospital from natural causes. Mr. Tarquinio was born Nov. 19, 1908, in Rochester, N.Y. to Parisino and Mary Grace Tarquinio. He worked as a tool and die maker for 30 years. Mr. Tarquinio lived in Oxnard for 27 years before moving to Gridley, Calif., to be near his daughter, Barbara. He enjoyed golf, bowling, playing bingo, music and dancing. He also liked to go the mountains to fish. He enjoyed having his family around and especially the family get-togethers. He was preceded in death by his wife, Rose, in 1988. Mr. Tarquinio is survived by his son, Ray Tarquinio of Visalia; daughter, Barbara Jones of Gridley; and grandsons, Steven Lund of Gridley and Gary Lund of Sacramento. A funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, at Conejo Mountain Memorial Park, Camarillo. Services are under the direction of Oroville Funeral Home.

Audrey Jean Storms
Audrey Jean Storms of Simi Valley passed away Sept. 18, 2001, after a lengthy battle with cancer. She will be deeply missed. Audrey was born Jan. 31, 1932, in Glendale, Calif. She graduated from Van Nuys High School in 1950. She is survived by her husband of 25 years, Dwight "Stormy" Storms; children, Robert Lacy of Wilmington, Del., Debra Lacy Powell of Simi Valley, Paul Grochowski of Mission Viejo, Calif., and Thomas Storms of Ridgecrest, Calif.; daughters-in-law, Lorea Lacy and Karen Grochowski; grandchildren, Lorea Eastburn and husband, Joe of Wilmington, Del., Troy Lacy of Tucson, Ariz., Heather Leidheiser and her husband Dean of Kooskia, Idaho, Krystle and David Grochowski of Mission Viejo and Sean and Christopher Storms of Moorpark; and great-grandson, DaKotia Leidheiser of Kooskia, Idaho. She is also survived by her sisters, Georgett Middleton of San Diego and Mary Frances Mora of Cameron Park, Calif.; and several nieces and nephews. Services were held Monday, Sept. 24, at Reardon Simi Valley Mortuary. Chaplain Dave Peckham officiated. died of abdominal cancer early Sunday morning, Sept. 30, 2001. She was surrounded by her children and grandchildren. Mrs. Snider was born in Grand Forks, N.D., to Norman C. Tout and Henrietta Lofsgaard and raised in Superior, Wis. She was a graduate of North Central Bible Institute, Minneapolis, Minn. A versatile instrumentalist on piano, organ, accordion and tipple (a rare, guitar-like instrument), she spent her life in the Christian ministry, first as a partner with Olga Olson, a Swedish evangelist, in a traveling group called the Sunshine Gospel Team and from 1940 until his death in 1986 with her husband, Allan George Snider. Allan and Rhoda Snider founded the Waukegan Gospel Church, Waukegan, Ill. After traveling as evangelists for some two years, they pastored the Assembly of God Church in Two Harbors, Minn., where they ministered on the radio as well. Later they founded Glad Tidings Assembly of God Church in Duluth, Minn. Following their ministry in Duluth were pastorates at the Full Gospel Tabernacle, Joliet, Ill.; the First Assembly of God, Terre Haute, Ind.; and Glad Tidings Assembly of God, Long Beach. During these years, Rhoda and Allan raised a family of five boys. A sparkling personality, Rhoda Snider ingratiated people with her leadership in the choir, orchestra, Sunday school and vacation Bible school. She welcomed newcomers with a warmth rare even in pastor's wives. She encouraged the best in all who attended the various churches in which she served and indeed in all who knew her. While her husband was a counselor at Melodyland Christian Center, Anaheim, Calif., during the 1970s, Rhoda Snider was a receptionist and phone operator at Southern California College, Costa Mesa. Before retirement, the Rev. and Mrs. Snider pastored the Conejo Christian Fellowship, Thousand Oaks. They spent their retirement years before Allan Snider's death doing volunteer missionary work for the Assemblies of God in the Philippines, Singapore and Belgium. Always active in church after her husband's death, Mrs. Snider played piano and organ at New Hope Church, Westlake Village. She was also a member of Sons of Norway. Mrs. Snider is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, Clifton, Loren, Myron and Mila and Merlin and Deborah; grandchildren, Ranate, Jessica, Alicia, Kristina, Kristoffer, Nathaniel, Kara, Nathan and Dustin; great-grandchild, Isaac; and siblings, Lois, Shirley and Norman. A memorial service for Rhoda Snider will be at 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, at New Hope Church, 80 Hampshire Road, Westlake Village.