Read through the obituaries published in Santa Maria Times
Gary Richard Kimes passed away at 83 on February 28, 2021 due to complications from the covid virus. He was an iron worker at local 416 for 30 years. He leaves behind loving siblings Kay Whalen, Celia Walker, Rene Darrow and Bob Gorbould, nine nieces and nephews, and the love of his life, Judie Olivia.
Gary was a perfectionist who excelled in everything he endeavored. He loved to compete in archery and in trap, skeet and pistol shooting, ranking highly in both local and state competitions. His outdoor interests included fishing, hunting, archery, scuba diving, and underwater photography. When not enjoying outdoor activities, he was an avid reader. He especially liked historical nonfiction.
Gary will be missed for his independent, resilient, and straightforward spirit. A private service will be held in Santa Barbara this summer.
Manuel (El Cuate) gained his wings March 26, 2021 in Parral, Chihuahua. He is no longer suffering and reunited with his dad and grandparents.
Cuate enjoyed listening to oldies and singing Spanish music and had a passion for lowrider cars. He loved to make people laugh until their stomach hurt. Cuate will definitely be remembered for his charisma and personality. He loved all his family and most of all his children.
Cuate was born May 22, 1968 to Manuel Arzaga-Arreola and Catalina Herrera-Arreola. He leaves behind his mom Catalina, his children Manuel, Jose (Briana), Michael (April), Lizette, Klarisa (Joseph) and Kristofer. His siblings twin Elvira (Juan), Lety, Rosa (Memo) and Nancy (Carlos). His grandchildren Alex, Sadie, Dean, Draven, Aubrie, Payton and Jacob. Numerous nieces and nephews as well as the mother of 4 of his children Melinda.
Cuate is preceded in death by his dad Manuel and grandparents Abraham, Ursula Arreola and Elvira Todakee.
Services will be at St. Louis de Montfort Church Saturday, April 17 at 9:30am with burial to follow at Santa Maria Cemetary (new part).
Scott William Dunn died peacefully on March 22, 2021, surrounded by his loved ones. Scott was born June 19, 1952 in Denver, Colorado to Norman and Delores Dunn.
The Dunn family subsequently moved to California. Scott cherished his role as a big brother to sisters Karen and Katie. He loved spending time with family at gatherings, reunions and holidays. Most of all, Scott treasured the Dunn family tradition of decorating the Cal Poly Rose Parade Float.
Scott's childhood was full of early morning travel to county fairs and horse shows. He grew up in the horse stalls, barns and pastures of Cal Poly Pomona. These early memories and experiences influenced all aspects of Scott's life. After graduating from Claremont High School in 1970, Scott honorably served in the United States Navy and used his GI bill to attend Cal Poly Pomona, graduating in 1978 with a BS in Agricultural Business Management. During that time, he married his college sweetheart, Sue Blackman. Together, they worked very hard at the W.K. Kellogg Arabian Horse Unit to promote the Arabian horse by breaking, training and showing Cal Poly horses under the direction of Allison Elwell and Scott's dad, Norm Dunn.
Scott had just begun his career in the insurance industry when he met and married Barbara Buckley. Their first home was in Orange County, and once raising a family became a priority (and leaving the SoCal traffic), they moved up the coast to Santa Maria. They welcomed daughter Kelsey in 1990 and son Hayes in 1994. Barb and Scott settled into raising children and being devoted parents.
Scott was a proud, involved parent for Kelsey and Hayes through the years of St. Louis de Montfort Elementary School, St. Joseph High School and California Lutheran University. Scott was a charter member of the Orcutt United Soccer League, and a Booster Board member at St. Joseph High School. He spent countless hours as a soccer coach, then as a spectator, cheering from the sidelines of tennis, soccer, track, and cross country competitions.
Scott had an admirable work ethic and applied it daily to a career in the insurance industry. He was actively involved with the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of California (IIABCal) and served on the Agribusiness Committee (serving as chair from 2007-2012), the Insurance Skills Center Advisory Committee, the Nominating Committee and on the IIABCal Board of Directors. Additionally, he taught Agribusiness and Farm Insurance Specialist (AFIS) certification classes for International Risk Management Institute, Inc. (IRMI) for over ten years, sharing knowledge and real life experiences on a wide variety of subjects ranging from Hydroponic Risks and Exposure to Equine Mortality and Loss Control.
Scott gave his best to an industry he loved and believed in, extending his experience to encourage others in their careers.
Scott worked at Relation Insurance, where he was inspired by his colleagues and their knowledge. At Relation, he was especially proud of the high caliber of service he was able to offer his clients -- many of whom he counted as dear friends.
In 2012, finding himself newly single, in empty nest-circumstances, began a courtship with Lynette Muscio. They married in 2018. Scott and Lynette made the most of every moment, approaching life as a team. Scott delved into the Muscio brothers' activities - baseball, water polo and swim meets. He volunteered as a timer, sponsored the teams, and even attended San Francisco Giants games -a true sacrifice after rooting for SoCal teams all of his life!
Scott also continued to pursue his equestrian passion. He began judging Arabian horses and earned his large R card in 2015. These roles provided several years of travel and Lynette was always eager to be in the passenger seat to enjoy the horse shows, friends, and quality time together. A second home in Prescott, Arizona gave Scott and Lynette proximity to the Oldest Rodeo in the World as well as memorable bike and kayak adventures on beautiful Lake Watson.
Giving back characterized Scott's lifelong involvement with Cal Poly Pomona. He maintained strong ties with the Cal Poly Pomona Huntley College of Agriculture. He served on its advisory committee, mentored students, and often roped his Relation Insurance colleagues into making presentations about the value of a career in agricultural focused insurance.
Scott's files are full of thank you letters from grateful students who landed a job or strategic career placement with encouragement or introductions from Scott.
In 2012, a President's Advisory Committee was formed to inform and advise the WK Kellogg Arabian Horse Center in the areas of breeding, training and marketing the Arabian Horse in the United States. Scott was honored to be asked to serve on this committee and carry on the Dunn connection. He played an integral role in planning the 75th anniversary of the WK Kellogg Arabian Horse Center. His family's support and presence at the event made it extra special.
Scott believed in contributing to make the community a better place. He joined The Rotary Club of Santa Maria in 1996 and took particular joy in program development and Past President activities. In addition, Scott served on the finance committee of Domestic Violence Solutions, the Advisory Committee of Community West Bank, and helped the Eric Okerblom Foundation bring awareness of distracted driving to schools and Rotary Clubs throughout the state.
Scott is survived by his loving wife Lynette; his daughter Kelsey Dunn and fiancé Justin Young; his son Hayes Dunn; his sister Karen and husband George Graham; his sister Katie and husband Ken Sergent. Scott had special relationships with his nieces, nephews and extended family. He had plenty of love to share with each: Deanna and Randall Myers; Marilyn and Dave Engels; Alyssa and Brian Graham; Sarah and Tony Hernandez; Clay, Jack and Wade Muscio; and, Reola and Vernon Eason.
Scott was preceded in death by his mother Dolly Dunn in 1966; father Norm Dunn in 1994; and, mother-in-law Marguerite Buckley in 2006.
A celebration of life will be held on Monday, June 21, 2021 at 10:00am at Orcutt Presbyterian Church: 993 Patterson Road, Santa Maria, CA. Please rsvp at 8102lred@gmail.com to receive pertinent updates.
Charitable donations may be made in Scott's memory to the Norman K. Dunn Endowed Scholarship fund c/o Cal Poly Pomona Philanthropic Foundation P.O. Box 3121 Pomona, CA 91769 or online at https://cpp.thankyouforcaring.org/pages/tributes.
Arrangements are in the care of Magner-Maloney Funeral Home and Crematory. Sympathy notes and words of support may be expressed at www.magnermaloney.com.
Andres Millan Farias, age 83. Passed away April 3, 2021. Resident of Santa Maria, Ca. Arrangements are under the direction of Dudley-Hoffman Mortuary, Crematory and Memory Gardens. www.dudleyhoffmanmortuary.com
Frances Helen Caroni, 97, of Santa Maria, CA, passed away on March 31, 2021, with family by her side. On September 26, 1923, she was born in Acampo, CA, where she also attended elementary school. After graduating from Lodi High School, CA, in 1941, Frances attended secretarial prep school at the local junior college, graduating amid wartime in 1942. She then went to work as a civil servant at Stockton Naval Port for six years, overseeing supplies and payments with support staff.
While at school, she became good friends with fellow student Ruby Della Maria. For five years, the friends roomed together at the home of Ruby's mother, Carolyn, who introduced Frances to handsome young Donald G. Caroni while at the September 1947 "Swiss Picnic." Frances and Donald hit it off and were married the following May 2 in Lodi. They began married life on the family dairy in Guadalupe, CA, where they became parents to son Donald in 1950 and daughter Jean in 1952. In 1988, Donald and Frances sold the dairy, moved to Santa Maria, partnered with son Donald on his Guadalupe cattle ranch, and began to travel extensively.
Over the years, Frances hosted many friends and family gatherings, showcasing her immaculate home and tasty meals. Her decades of family holidays always included a game of cards and plenty of desserts. Frances' hard work in the garden resulted in beautiful orchids and plenty of fruit and vegetables, which she enjoyed canning to share. She also enjoyed resin crafts and knitting and was no stranger to Betty's Fabrics.
Frances is survived by her son, Donald J. (Shella) Caroni; daughter, Jean Wall; grandchildren Michelle (Derrick) Ramer, Melaney (Mike) Pastore, Katy Wall, Andrew Slagle, Rebecca (Trevor) Slagle Luenser, Joseph (Neiva) Slagle; great-grandchildren Dominic Ramer, Ezekiel Ramer, Milo Pastore; nieces Joyce Saco, Jeanette Shoup, Gayle Caldwell; and nephew Camillo Leventini Jr.
Frances was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Donald G. Caroni; parents John and Catherine Molinengo; brother Albert Molinengo; sister Marguerite Leventini; father-in-law Anthony Caroni; mother-in-law Mayme Caroni; sister-in-law Nadyne Caldwell; and niece Shari Biscof.
Frances's family would like to thank the many friends, family, and business associates who have shown their support over the years. Special thanks to Lorina and Erika Curiel for their care and loving touch; Dr. Timothy Jones for his supportive care; and AAA Kindness Care, the welcoming home to Frances for the past two years. Staff showed Frances daily love and kindness while there, and the family thanks you immensely.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a private family service will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to a favored charity or AAA Kindness Care (3811 Dominion Road, Santa Maria, CA 93454, 805 937 6444) in Frances's memory.
To leave a condolence for the family visit www.dudleyhoffmanmortuary.com
Arthur Wayne Nelson, beloved father and grandfather, was suddenly taken home to the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on March 23, 2021. Arthur was born September 16,1928 to Harry and Edith Nelson in Kingsburg, CA. The family then moved to Santa Maria, CA. where he later graduated from Santa Maria High and Santa Maria Junior College, earning an Associate of Arts Degree in Natural Science while working in his father's auto shop as a mechanic. Arthur then attended Westmont College and graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Social Science in 1952. This is where he met his beloved wife, Martha Patterson Nelson who passed away in 2007. Following graduation, he was called to serve with the Armed Forces and entered the U.S. Army Vehicle Mechanics School at Fort Ord, CA. where he graduated with honors. He served as a corporal with the U. S. Army, 28th Infantry Division, 110th Regiment until May 1954 during the occupation of Germany. Upon his return, Arthur Wayne and Martha married in July of 1954. He then obtained his Master's Degree in Social Welfare at UCLA in 1957. Their daughter Catherine was born in 1959.
He began his career in 1957 with the Santa Barbara County Welfare Department (now known as the Department of Social Services), and also held part-time positions at UCSB and Westmont College for 30 years, teaching classes in social welfare. In addition, he served on numerous boards and committees, co-authored published articles and State Legislative recommendations, and was active in the community and his church. He also received a number of awards and recognitions including a Letter of Appreciation from Governor Ronald Reagan in 1972, the Honorary Paul Harris Fellow Award from the Santa Barbara Rotary Club in 1997, a Lifetime Achievement Award from the NASW, CA Chapter, and a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition in 2010.
In retirement years, highlights included his first Alaskan cruise with his cousin Grace, and a memorable trip to Washington D.C. in September 2019, made possible by Honor Flight Central Coast, with his grandson serving as his "Guardian" on the trip.
He is survived by his daughter Catherine Nelson, LCSW, and his grandson, SPC Cory J. Nelson, Religious Affairs Specialist, U.S. Army Reserve, each of whom has followed in his footsteps--Catherine with a career in social work having completed the same graduate degree at UCLA as her father received in 1957, and Cory with service overseas. He is also survived by his cousins, Grace Kyle of Orcutt, CA. and her family, and Edna Mae Goble of Sacramento, CA and her family. He will be deeply missed as a beloved father, grandfather, cousin, and friend.
A private service with limited seating will be held Saturday April 10, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at Montecito Covenant Church, and also livestreamed on the MCC YouTube channel. A Celebration of Life and the Military Funeral Honors Ceremony will be arranged for next year at this time, and we welcome all to attend.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution may be made to: Montecito Covenant Church, Westmont College, Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital, or to Honor Flight-Central Coast. Arrangements by Welch-Ryce-Haider.
Born March 15, 1943. Passed peacefully at home on March 31, 2021
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Bob after a lifetime of service to his community and country.
At the age of 20, Bob sold his business and left his career as a tile setter in Sylmar, CA when he was drafted into the military. He joined the U.S. Marine Corps because "I figured if I was going to go in, I might as well get the best training I can." He served as a Marine gunner in Fox Company, Second Battalion, 3rd Marines, 3rd Marine Division, participating in over 45 military operations in Vietnam between 1966 and 1971. He completed his active duty service with two Purple Hearts, having been shot once in the leg, returned to duty, and taking shrapnel in the shoulder and right arm.
Returning home, he went back into construction, but it wasn't long before his desire to help and protect others inspired him to join the Imperial Valley Sheriff's Department in El Centro, CA.
He later moved to the central coast of California where he joined the Santa Maria Police Department and served for 20 years. During the later years of his police department service he was dedicated to the community's future. He taught in the DARE program and enthusiastically performed his duties as a School Resource Officer (SRO), where he worked directly with the youth of the community. He enjoyed helping students, particularly those in underserved populations, which created positive and proactive relationships with the community and law enforcement.
It was while working as an SRO, supporting the schools that Bob met his beloved wife of 13 years, Rebecca.
In addition to serving as a School Resource Officer, Bob also served the youth of his community as a drill instructor for students in the Law Enforcement Academy at Allan Hancock College. One of the programs of which he was most proud, was the Police Department's Explorer program. In this program, Bob served as a mentor and an inspiration to countless young students by helping set career and life pathways of service to their communities. At his 76th birthday party, he was honored to have several of his former Explorer Cadets attend - many of whom were now serving their communities as peace officers and community leaders.
Even in retirement, Bob continued to serve his community as a PAL Program Liaison for the Recreation & Parks Department, through volunteerism at Fesler Junior High School in Santa Maria, and was active in Marine Corps League Detachment 1340, a fraternal organization that serves the needs and interests of Marines. He had a great love of animals and his dogs Koz and Serenity, and horse Gunner were like members of the family. His life was filled by spending time with his beautiful wife and their extensive family and friends who appreciated Bob's dry wit, his willingness to help, and his love of people.
Bob is survived by his devoted wife Rebecca, his brother Howard, and children Rae Jean Herrick-Murray and her husband Karl, and Paul Bond and his wife Michelle. He is also survived by his 9 loving grandchildren Kalyn, Chad, Ashlynn, Teegan, Taylor, Ryan, Noah, Quintin and Maya, and 4 great grandchildren Troy, Kaydence, Henry, and Rayden. Additionally, he is survived by his in-laws, Frank and Sally Pendergast, his sister in law Jill Weidley, her husband Thomas and his nieces and nephew Lexi, Max and Zoe, along with his brother in law Nathan Pendergast.
The family wishes to recognize the faithful and dedicated support of Bob's care team. Especially Kat (RN), who provided comfort and support to Bob over many years.
A memorial service will be held this summer, when it is safe to do so.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Bob's memory may be made to the local Marine Corps League Detachment, specifically to their Toys for Tots Program (Coastal Valley Detachment, C/O MCL 1340, PO Box 2325 Orcutt, CA 93457).
To l leave a condolence for the family visit www.dudleyhoffmanmortuary.com
Born: January 21, 1938 in Redfield, South Dakota (SD) to Wilma C. Strege and Robert L. Waddington. His mother later remarried and Ron took on the last name of Peterson.
Died: March 31, 2021 at home with his wife and step son at his side, of End Stage Renal Disease under Dignity Hospice. He had been on dialysis for 4 years and seriously ill for 6 weeks.
Ron lived a life filled with many interests and experiences, living in SD until 7th grade when he moved with his family to CA. He was most proud when in the 1st grade, he won the SD state championship in trumpet, having begun playing at the age of 3 when he first picked up a trumpet. At age 5, he helped deliver his pony, Trigger, and rode him all over on many adventures which included spending time with the Sioux Indian Tribe outside Redfield. His love of tigers was developed, while spending time with the Ringling-Barnum circus trains that arrived in Redfield years, to form a larger circus. When he moved to Rivera. CA in 7th grade, he played trumpet in the Whittier Junior Symphony qualifying for first chair and the "Little Greek" director gave him a chance to direct the symphony o-several occasions. He attended the opening year of El Rancho High School in Rivera (later Pico Rivera) and graduated in 1956. With the help of family friend, Cecil B DeMille, Ron was instrumental in getting a theater developed at El Rancho that included a full stage on campus in exchange for student extras for MGM films and served as a Technical Director. During his senior year, his family moved to Garden Grove and he assisted with sound and troubleshooting for the opening of Disneyland and met Walt Disney. He was a dedicated volunteer at MGMS Studios and would have become an employee of MGM but was unable to get the union card, so he joined the Navy upon graduating from El Rancho. Ron served 4 years in the Navy as a 2nd Class Fire Control Petty Officer. After completing basic training in San Diego, he was stationed on the Hancock Aircraft Carrier.
Ron was married to Nancy Olds from 1960 to 1996, when she died. In 1960 to 1963, he worked R&D jobs and in 1963 came to work for Lockheed at Vandenberg AFB as a pyro tech. In 1979, he began to work for FEC/ITT and retired in 1996 as a Senior Project Manager. He was able to get his BA from University of La Verne at VAFB and then taught classes part time for AHC for 21 years. During his working years, Ron was active in managing Boy's Club, Special Olympics, and was a leader in 4H and Cub Scouts. Upon retiring he decided to go back to school, studying graphic design and video production. He pursued hobbies in ceramics, photography, sculpting, musical instruments and most recently in pastel pencil art.
He enjoyed ballroom dance competitions and won many awards. In 2000, he was a dance host for dance lessons, which is where he met Linda Krueger (Walden) and said she "was an angel sent by God". He married Linda in July 2003 and she became his "wife, lover, confidant, and best friend". Their love was truly a gift from God for each of them. Ron was a devout Christian and never turned away from God even as he faced health issues and obstacles in his life.
Ron is survived by his wife, Linda Peterson of Santa Maria; step daughters Angela Chong (Krueger) spouse Kenton of Santa Fe Springs, CA; Shelley Rieke (Krueger) spouse Brian of Santa Maria; and step son Aaron Krueger of San Diego; step grandchildren Levi and Eva Chong, Parker and Julia Rieke.
In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to the either the San Diego Zoo; Dignity Hospice; First Christian Church Santa Maria building fund.
Arrangements are under the direction of Dudley-Hoffman Mortuary in Santa Maria where visitation will be held on Thursday, April 8, 2021 from 4:30-7:00pm. An outdoor Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 17, 2021 at First Christian Church. Observance of wearing masks and social distancing is requested.
To leave a condolence for the family visit www.dudleyhoffmanmortuary.com
Velia Vander Plate, age 96. Passed away March 30, 2021. Resident of Arroyo Grade, Ca. Arrangements are under the direction of Dudley-Hoffman Mortuary, Crematory and Memory Gardens. www.dudleyhoffmanmortuary.com