Joseph J Ayala

March 05, 1937 - April 07, 2024

Joseph J Ayala, born on March 5th, 1937, in Jerome, Az., passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on April 7th, 2024, leaving behind cherished memories and a lasting legacy. He was the beloved son of Carol Jauregui and Juan Ayala and the third among four siblings, Rosie, John, Robert, and Gilbert.

Joseph is survived by his loving Children, Grandchildren and Great- Grandchildren.  His Daughters Virginia Rodriguez, Sarah Perez, his son-in-law John Rodriguez, his Son Joseph M Ayala and his grandchildren Johnny, Joseph, Jacob, Benjamin, Carilyn, Elaina, and Olivia.  He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. 

Joseph was a lifelong 18-wheel driver for Consolidated Freightways facing many obstacles in the road and somehow with faith and diligence always made it home.  He was a lover of cars, camping, fishing and his family,  He was the hands that carried them through the storm. 

A memorial service to celebrate Joseph's life will be held at 11AM-1PM on Friday, May 3rd 2024 . Hermosa Chapel, located at  900 N Meridian Ave, Colton, CA 92324  . Following the service, a reception will be held at the Ayala Family Home located at 1560 Hardt St, San Bernardino, CA 92408

 

Roscoe (Rock) L. DeSpain Jr.

February 4th, 1931 -  April 5th, 2024

Roscoe L. DeSpain, affectionately known as Rock, was welcomed home on April 5, 2024, at his
home in Hemet, CA. He was born to R. L. DeSpain Sr. and Helen on February 4, 1931, in
Missouri. His most cherished time working was with his father and sister Mary Ellen at R .L.
Despain Inc. for 21 years in Des Plaines, Ill.

He had many chapters of interest in his life including; dancing, sports, restauranteur, and finally finding his spiritual vocation in the Secular Franciscan Order and work in the Catholic Church. He will be laid to rest at Mission San Luis Rey cemetery in Oceanside, CA.

He is survived by his wife Janice of 47 years, children, Christine, Patricia, Kathleen, Wendy, and Imelda; grandchildren Tamara, Ryan, Sean, Leslie, Matthew, Heather, Lindsay, Sandie, and Zack; great grandchildren Joseph and Haisley. He is predeceased by his parents, siblings,
Frank, Kathleen, Mary Ellen and his son, Roscoe L. DeSpain III. He also will be fondly
remembered by nieces and nephews Steve, Jim, Roland, Janice, Sue, Diane, Kari, and Tom.
You are loved and will live on in our hearts until we meet again in our heavenly home.

Rock would love to share with you, a prayer that is very special to him and will be sung at his
funeral on May 25 th at Holy Spirit Parish. He would emotionally belt it out whenever it was sung at Church. It is an invitation to all of us to live in the compassion of God’s mercy and grace.

Peace Prayer of St. Francis

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
Where there is injury, pardon;
Where there is doubt, faith;
Where there is despair, hope;
Where there is darkness, light;
Where there is sadness, joy.
Oh Divine Master,
Grant that I may not so much seek
To be consoled as to console;
To be understood as to understand;
To be loved as to love;
For it is in giving that we receive;
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
And it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life.

The last song Rock sung was Danny Boy on St. Patrick’s Day. If you would like to honor Rock’s
memory, he would be pleased if you made a donation to a charitable organization of your
choice. My brother told me after viewing him sing Danny Boy on Facebook he wanted to send
a donation to Boy’s Town, founded by Irish Father Flanagan in 1917. It now also serves girls as
well as boys. Really, any help to persons who are described in the Peace Prayer above would
honor his memory.
 

 

Freeman Edward Waltman 

September 20, 1943 - March 30, 2024

Freeman Edward Waltman, born on September 20th, 1943, in San Jacinto, California, passed away on March 30, 2024, leaving behind cherished memories and a lasting legacy. He was the beloved son of Thomas Edward and Juanita Waltman and the third among seven siblings, Richard, Sam, John, Roger, Larry, and Anita.

Freeman is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Sharron Lee Waltman, his daughters Kimberly, Rebecca, and Trisha, his sons-in-law Jake, Joel, and Carlos, and his grandchildren Joel Jr,  Jonah, and Lailee. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. 

Freeman served his country with honor during the Vietnam War, where he demonstrated exceptional bravery and earned both the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his courageous actions.

A memorial service to celebrate Freeman's life will be held at 3 pm on Saturday, April 13th 2024 . Flur De Lise Chapel, located at 525 W 18th St, Upland CA 91784. Following the service, a reception will be held at Joel and Rebecca's Home in Rancho Cucamonga.

 

Sarah Ann Tomes 

July 13th, 1992 - March 24th, 2024

Eros Marocchi

December 11, 1929 - March 21, 2024  

 

Michael Scott Howit

June 07, 1949 - March 16, 2024

Michael Scott Howit, a proud veteran of the United States Army, passed away surrounded by family on March 16, 2024, in Upland, California. April 26, 2024 at 11:45 am.  

The son of Michael Joel Howit and Leta Reuter, Michael grew up in San Pedro, California. He also spent time in Oak Harbor, Washington, with his mother and stepfather, Gene Poole, who played an important role in his life.

At 19 years old, Michael entered the United States Army as a Medical Corpsman. He served in South Vietnam in 1970 as part of the 9th Infantry Regiment (Manchu) before being gravely wounded. Michael was a perpetual survivor, recovering from his wounds and learning to walk

again. He earned the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and a Purple Heart. He retired as an SP4 in 1970. KUTF 1970

He is fondly remembered for his 45 years as a longshoreman in the Los Angeles Harbor. He was a proud member of the ILWU Local 63.

Michael is survived by his daughter, Kimberly, and her two sons, Frank Jamie and Thomas Michael; his son Matthew and his two sons, Asher and Arsen; and his brothers Greg, Bruce, Brian, and Lloyd. His loved ones will always remember his strength, generosity, and sense of humor.

A military service has been planned for Michael at

 Riverside National Cemetery on 
April 26, 2024 at 11:45 am.  
All are welcome. 

Rebecca Denise Young 

February 15, 1970 - March 16, 2024 

 

Gloria Esther Sandoval 

April 10th, 1939 - March 16th, 2024

Gloria, Esther Sandoval, beloved mother, grandma sister she was a beacon light for all her loved ones the most kindest person she thought us to be peaceful, loving and caring. She will always be deeply missed but no longer in pain I know that she is in paradise with her Husband, Ruben Sandoval sr we will always look to the sky and seek Guidance and to be like you, Mom, Love always and forever your loving Kids!!

 

Bertha Valenzuela passed away March 14th at Bradley Gardens Convalescent.  She was 94 years old. Bertha loved to sing, play the piano and ride horses with her husband and friends. She loved family gatherings and was very social. Bertha and her family moved to Hemet in 1969, where she dedicated her life to caring for her mother and her sick husband. She also took care of her 7 children. Bertha left a legacy of 60 descendants 7 children, 14 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren  and 9 great- Great- grandchildren. 

Services will be held at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church 

on April 26th, 2024 at 10:30am. 

Reception to follow at Emilio's restaurant

Jean White 

August 12, 1931 - March 13, 2024

Jean White was born on August 12, 1931. Heaven gained her as an angel on March 13, 2024 at the young age of 92. She joined her husband Fred and son Chuck, along with her parents and many siblings. She was the glue that held her family together, the ultimate matriarch and a beacon of wisdom.

Jean was born in San Bernardino, California and raised her family in Fontana, California. Jean and Fred resided in Calimesa throughout their senior years. She spent all her years dabbling in hobbies with flower arranging and quilting being her legacy.

She left behind her daughter Louise (White) Mierzwik and son Edward White, husband to Rose, along with many grandchildren, Kattie, Andy (& Linda), Michelle (& Mike) Eddie, Matthew, Amy and Ramesh, great-grandchildren and extended family.

She will be so missed and would say she loves “you too”.

Services will be held on April 3rd and begin promptly at 9:30am.

Hermosa Gardens Cemetery, 900 Meridian Street, Colton, CA.

James Albert Rose 

February 16, 1940 - March 12, 2023 

Dale Edward Hester, 80, of Eagle Rock, California, passed away on March 12, 2024. He was born to Donald Hester and Florence Stecher on April 4, 1943, in Hamilton, Ohio.

His legacy continues with his daughter Jeannette; stepdaughter Sheri; granddaughters Paris, Stephanie, and Brooke; great-grandchildren Isaiah, Mia, Angelo, and Olivia; sister Nancy, brother Mike, and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents and his sisters Sharon and Sylvia. Dale was an artist who enjoyed spending time in all of God's creation and wonder. He was a Renaissance man who had innumerable talents and knowledge in countless areas.

For anyone who knew Dale, he was not afraid of a good debate. If you had time and the resolve he would walk you through the inner workings of politics, religion, science, art, astrology, cars, music, and so much more.  He was a brilliantly beautiful mind and anyone who he interacted with during his 73 years in Eagle Rock could tell you great stories about him. 

Lastly and most importantly, Dale knew and loved God with all of his heart.

He was loved deeply by his family and he will be truly missed.

We would love for people to leave comments about Dale so our family will be able to read the great stories about him and see just how many people he impacted. 

Dale Edward Hester

April 4, 1943 - March 12, 2024

 Dale Edward Hester

April 4th, 1943 - March 12th, 2024

Dale Edward Hester, 80, of Eagle Rock, California, passed away on March 12, 2024. He was born to Donald Hester and Florence Stecher on April 4, 1943, in Hamilton, Ohio.
 
His legacy continues with his daughter Jeannette; stepdaughter Sheri; granddaughters Paris, Stephanie, and Brooke; great-grandchildren Isaiah, Mia, Angelo, and Olivia; sister Nancy, brother Mike, and numerous nieces and nephews.
 
Preceded in death by his parents and his sisters Sharon and Sylvia.
 
Dale was an artist who enjoyed spending time in all of God's creation and wonder. He was a Renaissance man who had innumerable talents and knowledge in countless areas.
 
For anyone who knew Dale, he was not afraid of a good debate. If you had time and the resolve he would walk you through the inner workings of politics, religion, science, art, astrology, cars, music, and so much more.  He was a brilliantly beautiful mind and anyone who he interacted with during his 73 years in Eagle Rock could tell you great stories about him. 
 
Lastly and most importantly, Dale knew and loved God with all of his heart.
 
He was loved deeply by his family and he will be truly missed.
 
We would love for people to leave comments about Dale so our family will be able to read the great stories about him and see just how many people he impacted.

 

John Joseph Cessna

In Loving Memory of: John Joseph Cessna born May 11, 1968 - died March 12, 2024
John is survived by his wife, Catalina Cessna and children, Alexandrea & Michael Cessna, 4 brothers and 2 sisters. He is preceded by his mother, father, & daughter Catherine Mary Cessna.  He served his country with dignity, honor & pride. His career included over 30 years with Color Science, Inc. He will be greatly missed.

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’ve 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 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.

Marietta Le Weaver-Sears 

March 21, 1950 - March 11, 2024 

Andre Paul Bailey  

November 14, 1960 - March 11, 2024 

Celia Muniz

March 06, 1952 - March 11, 2024

 

Irma C Lasley 

May 3rd, 1930 - March 10th, 2024

Born 3 may 1930. On  10 mar 2024 she died peacefully at her residence. Our mother was born in El Salvador and emigrated to the U.S. with her family during WW II. Living in S.F. Ca. for most of her life.

She and her husband moved to Vista, Ca. after he retired in the 1990's. After her husband died she eventually moved to Hemet, Ca. Irma became a naturalized U.S. citizen 29 Jan 1998.

She is survived by  three sons, Frank S  Robertson, Lennie R. Anderson and Charles M. Lasley.

Josefina E. De Ojeda

February 22, 1950 - March 10, 2024 

 

Esteban Daniel Gomez

October 3rd, 1995 - March 9th, 2024

 Esteban 'Steven' Daniel Gomez was more than a son, beloved brother, friend, or favorite grandson . He was a free-spirited individual whose character was marked by selflessness and an unmistakable dedication to those he considered family. His character and selflessness stood well above any of his other attributes. He has left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He was kind-hearted and well-intentioned in everything he did. Always concerned with others more than himself, he took pride in ensuring the safety, comfort, and provision for those around him.

John 15:13 
"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."

 

Richard Roffe

June 21st, 1951 - March 4th, 2024

Your memory is my keepsake, with which we’ll never part. 

God has you in his keeping, I have you in my heart.

Michael Bruce Tuel 

August 21, 1945 - March 04, 2024 

Rita Esparza

May 21, 1927 - February 09, 2024

 

Michael Hearns 

March 09, 1951 - February 05, 2024

Tracy Jean Brixey Smith

September 30, 1970 - February 27, 2024

Tracy Jean Brixey Smith, 53, of Pomona, CA unexpectedly passed away February 27, 2024 in her home from respiratory issues. She was born September 30, 1970 to parents Tom and Sue Brixey. Tracy was raised in Ontario, CA and attended Chaffey High School from 1985-1989. She leaves behind two children. Her son Tyler Brixey, 31 and daughter Tiffany Smith, 28. She is also survived by her father Tom Brixey, 82. Tracy is now reunited with her beloved mother Sue, who passed away in 2009. Tracy also leaves behind her pets Charlie and Meow Meow, and many friends and family who will all miss her bright spirit very much. 

To honor Tracy’s memory, we are holding a celebration of her life Sunday April 7th at 1:00PM. At The Union (In Humanity Hall) 350 N. Garey Ave. Pomona, Ca. 91767. We invite anyone who knew her to attend and remember her wonderful life. 

Joe P. Morgan 

November 05, 1942 - February 25, 2024 

Thomas A. Mance

October 27, 1938 - February 24, 2024 

Paulette Renee Fannan-Sparks
August 29th, 1968 - February 14th, 2024  

Paulette Renee Fannan-Sparks sadly passed away on February 14, 2024 at home in Chino, Ca. She was born on August 29, 1968 in San Bernardino County to Judy and Johnny Fannan. She became a mom at the age of 16 to Daniel Vasquez. She got married to Dennis Sparks and became a stepmother to Desiree and Dustin Sparks then together they had Rex and Dylan Sparks. She lived to be a mom. She was a wonderful mother who was always there when we needed her. She was a special hero. There wasn't anything she couldn't do; she always made it happen. She was smart, strong, crafty and courageous! Her memory will be cherished  by her grandchildren Jacob, Kara, Davin, Dexter and Nevaeh. 

 Rosalie Ruth Sandoval

May 27, 1936 - February 14, 2024

Rosa Martha Perez Jimenez 

August 31, 1953 - February 13, 2024

Services will be held on Wednesday, February 28, 2024; Viewing at 10am and Rosary at 10:30am, followed by Mass at 11:00am at San Salvador Church, 178 W. K St, Colton, Ca; Burial at 1:00pm at Hermosa Cemetery, 900 N. Meridian, Colton, Ca 92324.

 

 

Diane Lynn Heskett

August 29th, 1958 - February 12th, 2024

 

Angela Jennifer Bridge

June 13, 1950 - February 11, 2024

The world is filled with sorrow as we bid farewell to the dearly beloved Angela Bridge, who departed from us on February 11, 2024. Angela valiantly fought against numerous illnesses, yet her incredible spirit remained unwavering, as she continued to embrace us with her warm hugs and delightful sarcasm every day. With her adoring family by her side, Angela peacefully passed away at Romana Rehabilitation in Hemet, California. Born on June 13, 1950, just outside London, England, Angela leaves behind a profound legacy.

Survived by her devoted son David Bridge and daughter-in-law Dawn; loving daughter Victoria Drumwright and son-in-law Ron, cherished grandchildren Lauren, Jessica, Emilee, Jonathan, and Troy, as well as her precious great-grandchildren Easton, Breeland, and Hudson, Angela's memory lives on. Let us not forget her siblings Jane Corbett and Robin Arnold, along with her numerous nieces and nephews.

Sadly, Angela was preceded in death by her dear brother Bernie Arnold and her beloved parents Walter and Rena Arnold. In the upcoming weeks, we will gather to celebrate Angela's remarkable life. Stay tuned for the announcement of the date, time, and location of this special commemoration.

Judit Selymes 

February 18, 1940 - February 07, 2024

Jokes made her laugh, 

And she loved to tell them.

 

 William “Bill” Andrew Ceci was born on February 10th, 1945 in Fort Bragg, North Carolina. A third generation, working class Italian American bred on the streets of Southern California, Bill spent his early days playing baseball with his brother and soliciting bets at Hollywood Park. Entrepreneurial from the start, he took gigs keeping score at bowling alleys and running his own paper route at 11 years old. His strong-willed, competitive, and mischievous spirit, along with a complicated home life, led him away from school and into the revolving door of the California Youth Authority throughout his young adult years. During his final bid he recalled fighting forest fires for .50 cents a day before he was released and swept up into a young love that made him change his ways. 

He married his first wife and started a family in 1967, settling with their two children and dog in Claremont. Bill apprenticed in electrical and tile trades. Working hard to set himself apart, he joined the union and established his very own multigenerational family business. Ceci Tile would go on to train and hire many over the years, completing countless projects from a waterfall in Century City Mall to an Olympic sized swimming pool in Brentwood. Not to mention the houses of Lucille Ball, Jimmy Durant, and Paul Michael Glaser. 

Dubbed the happiest years of his life, Bill coached his son’s little league teams and played board games with his daughter every weekend. He would later go on to persevere through years of heartbreak triggered by the dissolution of his first marriage. Ultimately, Bill would travel thousands of miles across all but 3 continental states in the US for work, grow his family through a second marriage and divorce, and take an active role in the lives of his 5 grandchildren throughout his later years,  cherishing the opportunity to walk his eldest granddaughter down the aisle at her wedding in 2022. 

Grandpa Bill was a beloved and consistent presence infusing dependability and all things sports, spaghetti and meatballs, fun and games into the lives of all who took the time to appreciate him. Underneath a fiery and stubborn exterior was a gentle and sensitive soul who humbly sought life’s simple joys and pleasures. He passed away just 3 days shy of his 79th birthday the night of February 7, 2024. Wild Bill is remembered by all for the warm and inexhaustible sparkle in his eye. 

William Andrew Ceci

February 10, 1945 - February 07, 2024  

 Beatriz A. Gomez

January 03, 1939 - February 05, 2024

Beatriz Gomez, A beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at her home on Feb. 5th, 2024. Beatriz was born in Mexico City on 3/3/1939 and lived a life filled with Love, Laughter and cherished memories. Beatriz will be deeply missed by her daughter Alexandra, Ramon, Margaret, Ana Maria and Armando. Grandchildren Julia , Christina and Manuel, great-grandchildren Ramon, Ricky, Ariana, Nathan, Noah and Nikko.  Beatriz loved cooking, growing flowers, especially roses, taking care of animals and drinking Tequila.  She always loved playing with her grandchildren.

Joan Patricia Foster

February 14, 1931 - February 04, 2024 

 Rena Belle Knight

November 15, 1928 - February 04, 2024

Sharon Grace Kesler born May 23, 1948 in Ireland.

“My Sunshine”

Her soul left onto a new adventure, February 3, 2024 at 8:01 PM in San Antonio community Hospital, Upland, California

Sharon would always give more than what she had, always opening the door to whom ever needed a warm bed and an amazing meal.

The most grateful woman who appreciated all little things in life.

Her love for music, and her dancing will continue to carry on through all of us and those who she touched.

She will be incredibly missed, never forgotten.

 

 

Carlos Favela Garcia 

November 10th, 1952 - January 31st, 2024

William Wallace Hempel

APRIL 24, 1936 – JANUARY 30, 2024

  

William Wallace "Bill" Hempel of Walnut, CA, passed away on Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at the age of 87. He was born in Detroit, MI, to Ernst Richard Hempel and Bertha Jessie May Hempel of El Monte, CA.

Bill was the beloved husband of the late Louise Marie Hempel of Walnut, CA, for 60 years. Louise was the love of his life. They met when she was just 13 years old. They married four years later. Bill served in the US Army from 1959 to 1965, and Louise joined him in Germany, where they had the opportunity to explore Europe together.

He was the devoted father of Michael, married to Orisa, of Fontana, CA, Mark of Chino, CA, Scott, married to Blake, of Pacifica, CA, and Matthew, married to Elizabeth, of Upland, CA. Bill particularly enjoyed watching his children play sports as they grew up and went to college. He was the proud and loving grandfather of Allie, Maia, Max, and Ethan.

Bill was predeceased by his siblings: Ernest “David” Hempel, Grace Willsmore, Phillip Hempel, Ruth Hauptman, Harry Hempel, Charles "Charlie" Hempel (survived by his wife Heather of Rancho Cucamonga, CA), Charlotte Trousdale, and James "Jim" Hempel. He is survived by many nieces and nephews.

A member of the graduating class of 1954 of Arroyo High School, El Monte, Bill played basketball his senior year. He worked for Pacific Bell for 43 years before retiring in 1998.

Above all else, Bill treasured the Lord Jesus Christ and his family. He spent a lifetime showing his love through sacrifice and hard work, ensuring his family had opportunities he never did. Even after retirement, his time was dedicated to selflessly serving his family.

Services will be held at a date yet to be announced.

 

Delia Morales Hernandez

Born:  April 22, 1934, 

Deceased:  January 25, 2024

Birth Place:  Copala, Sinaloa, Mexico

Resident of Colton, California for 66 years.

Married:  Joe C. Hernandez (deceased)

Father:  Felix Federico Morales (deceased)

Mother:  Francisca Valenzuela Garcia (deceased)

Surviving Brother:  Manuel Morales

Children:  Rebecca M. Hernandez, Joseph M. Hernandez, Frances M. Hernandez

Grandchildren:  Joseph Y. Hernandez, James E. Hernandez, Katherine A. Hernandez, Robert S. Hernandez. 

Employee of Mrs. Redd’s Pies Co. for  15+ Years.  

Active member of The Immaculate Conception Church:  Member of The Blue Army:  Volunteer for Dinner Hour, Catechism Classes and  Main Office.  

Auxiliary Member of Union Laborers Local 783.

Services: Tuesday, February 20, at the Immaculate Conception Church, 1106 N. La Cadena Dr., Colton, CA

Rosary @ 10:30 a.m., Mass @ 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Hermosa Gardens, 900 Meridian St. Colton, CA.  

Obituary for Alan C. Savage

Alan Conrad Savage passed peacefully from this life on Sunday, January 21, 2024, at his home in Hemet with his family by his side. Surviving his passing are his dear wife of 62 years, Sharron Savage, originally from Roseburg, Oregon, his children, son Steven Savage of Hemet and daughter Linda Langgle of Laguna Hills, CA, and his three grandchildren: Jared Savage of Sparta; Brittany Davis of Levonia, MI; and Ryan Langgle of Laguna Hills. Alan was preceded in death by his mother and father, Edna Graham and William “Bill” Savage of Grants Pass, OR, and his two sisters, Theresa Savage of El Cerrito, CA, and Joan Rasmussen of White City, OR. 

Born at Glendale Adventist Hospital, Alan spent much of his life in California. However, his boyhood home was Grants Pass, Oregon, where close ties to lifelong friends originated. He spent many happy days in the woods with his grandfather and friends, sojourning by foot and bicycle along the Rogue River. As a young man, Alan left Grants Pass to serve in the U.S. Navy, and was stationed in San Diego, Port Hueneme and Honolulu. Afterwards, he settled in Eagle Rock, CA, where he and his bride established their family before moving to the beachside town of Carpinteria. He enjoyed life in Carpinteria, with pool parties in his backyard, family bike rides and beachcombing, sunsets at the Rincon, and regular visits to arts shows in Santa Barbara. He completed an associate degree at Santa Barbara City College while working as a field lead at a public utility, the Southern California Gas Company.

A notable adventure of his life included a temporary early retirement that he and Sharron designed, to give them the opportunity to fulfill wanderlust dreams of travel. Midlife and before real retirement, for over a year, their family journeyed cross-country by car with travel trailer in tow throughout the United States to explore 47 of the 48 contiguous states. The family enjoyed time together “while Mom and Dad were still young.” The Savage family later settled in Cookeville and Rickman, Tennessee, for five years of country living before relocating to the suburbs of Nashville. From there for 16 years, Alan was on the road again as a short-haul trucker. His weekly routes from Nashville took him to Georgia, Kentucky, Alabama and Florida where he enjoyed regular visits with his customers and pre-dawn breakfast buffets of eggs, biscuits and gravy, and grits with peaches. On many weekends in between, Alan enjoyed being with his grandchildren during their childhoods and provided a warm home filled with love, laughter, and stability. 

Alan’s life in retirement was spent in San Jacinto and Hemet. Alan’s good humor, kindness, and remarkable generosity earned him many enduring friendships, and he will always be cherished for his dedication to his family and his many admirable traits.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the Spring. 

 

Kenneth Monroe Welton was born November 28th, 1952 to Earnest and Dorothy Mae Welton in Upland, CA. He had one older brother, Vernon Welton.

Ken attended Ontario High School where he played Baseball. He graduated in 1970.

June of 1971 he married Patricia Dianne Cheney, the love of his life. Soon after, he joined the Air Force as an Administrative Specialist, serving 6 years. He was stationed on an Alaskan Island called Shimea that was barely large enough to contain an air strip. He made the rank of Sergeant in 1973 and his military reviews spoke of his excellence in both his work and his positive attitude. He truly enjoyed his time with the Airforce both in service and playing sports with his fellow servicemen.

Ken and Patricia raised two daughters together. Jennifer born in December of 1972 and Aileen born in 1977. They raised their family in Ontario, CA.

Ken worked in the metal recycling industry, driving trucks and working his way up to managing D & M Metals. He retired early in his late 40s due to a medical disability. His wife, Patricia, was always by his side and helped care for him with a love that is so rare to see. Ken passed away on January 21, 2024. He is survived by his wife, Patricia Welton; his daughters, Jennifer Welton and Aileen Zlokich; his brother, Vernon Welton; and his grandsons, Jeremy Zlokich and Justin Zlokich.