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Yvonne Espitia Obituary
On Nov. 17, 2010 our sweet, loving Vonnie, a lifelong resident of Ventura, went home to be with our Lord, after a courageous four year battle with cancer.
She was born April 17, 1948 to Rolland and Frances Shepherd. Vonnie attended Will Rogers Elementary School, Cabrillo Junior High, and graduated from Ventura High School in 1966. She completed her education at Ventura College. Vonnie worked many years at La Casita Restaurant for the Peck Family, where she developed many lifelong friendships. She went on to work at Ventura College Book Store, and most recently Longs Drug Store Photo Department.
Vonnie was a dedicated mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, companion, and friend. Her warmth and gentle spirit were evident to everyone she came in contact with. She truly exemplified the fruits of the spirit; love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control. I have heard so many people say that, "Vonnie is the nicest person they have ever met."
She is survived by her companion Jim Whalen, son Anthony and wife Dale, son, Shane and wife Donnann, mother, Frances Shepherd, brother Jeffrey Shepherd (Tracy), sister, Laurie Noel Lowry (Stephen), brother Matthew Shepherd (Kisa), grandchildren; Adriana, Carlos, Caitlin, Shaelynn, Michael, Kelsee, and Luke. Aunt to ; Nicole, Noah, Shaun, Brenna, Micaela, Paris, Brooklyne, Chanelle, John, Richard, Leonard, Sara, Aaron, Jason, Leastar, Diamond, Timmy, Alejandro, Chante, Christy, Veronica, Kenny, Celeste, Windy, Elizabeth, Todd, and Casey, She remained close friends with her son's father, Michael Espitia and sister-in-law Lisa Shepherd. She joins her father, Rolland Shepherd (papa), and nephew, Steve Lopez in Heaven.
Vonnie had many hobbies, including travels with her companion Jim. They visited France, Costa Rica, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, and camped often at the beach. She also had a passion for photography and left us many cherished memories. Vonnie was a loyal, supportive fan at all of her family's sporting events. She loved spending time with her family!
The family would like to acknowledge the professional care provided by Tamra & Lori of ProCare Hospice, Dr. Kevin Chang, Dr. Zev Wainberg, and Dr. warren Banta. We also appreciate all of you that donated to her chemo account and the loving devotion of her adoring sister Laurie Lowry, and the patience and dedication of Jim. A celebration of life will be held Saturday Dec. 4, 2010 at Camp Comfort Park, 11969 Creek Rd., Ojai, CA at 1 p.m.
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Memories and Condolences
for Yvonne Espitia
Ginni Mora Ponce
December 14, 2010
To the family of Vonnie, It has been many years since I met Vonnie, way back in the 60's when my family moved to Channel Dr. We had a great time even though she was 2 yrs younger than me. I would always say my birthday was one week away when she celabrated hers. Good memories of dancing (we looked like Mutt and Jeff), and her "doing my hair". She was always so kind, patient and loving. I am sorry that we lost track of each other, so many years ago. In the 70's my son Bobby Brady played baseball with her son's and Mike was his coach. May you know the peace and comfort this heartfelt thought imparts... The ones we love are never gone, they live within our hearts. You will be missed.
December 5, 2010
Aunt Vonnie may the light of your life shine forever in our hearts.
The Martin Family
Leahastar Schwanauer
December 4, 2010
Dear sweet aunt Vonnie, you will be missed! You were always such a beautiful person and always smiling...I can still hear your laughter now. Thank you for touching my life and you will always have a special place in my heart. May your family find comfort in knowing that you are in a better place now and cherishing all of the lovely memories they have of you. What a beautiful family and legacy you have left behind, I know you must have been so proud of them.
Much love,
Leahastar and family:-)
JULIE LOPEZ
December 3, 2010
MY DEAR AUNT VONNIE..I WILL MISS YOUR SWEET SMILE AND TENDER LOVING HUGS YOU ALWAYS HAD FOR ME...MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY GOES OUT TO MY COUSINS ANTHONY & SHANE & AND UNCLE MIKE..AND TO JIM TO WHOM I HAD THE PLEASURE OF MEETING..I ALWAYS REMEMBER WHEN MY HUSBAND STEVE PASSED AUNT VONNIE WAS SO HELPFUL TO ME AND MY DAUGHTERS..MAY SHE REST IN PEACE WITH HIM NOW...LOVE TO ALL OF YOU, JULIE LOPEZ
matt Furey
December 2, 2010
What this world needs is more people like Vonnie. Our deepest sympathy to her family and soul mate Jim Whalen.
Betty Albiston
December 1, 2010
I got to know Vonnie while watching our sons play baseball together and then later working at Ventura College. I will always remember her sweet spirit and beautiful smile. I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my prayers.
Ken Beem
November 30, 2010
So sad to hear of Vonnie's passing.She will be missed by every one who knew her.My sympathy to all her friends and family.
Vickie Patton
November 30, 2010
I was so saddened and surprised to hear that Vonnie had past away. I was a grade behind her, but remember her well at Will Rodgers,Cabrillo and Ventura High school.
The last time I saw Vonnie was when she was working at Longs and I had no idea that she was ill. She was just as beautiful and just as sweet as always.
Vonnie was the kind of person that you can never forget, she had such a peaceful, gentle spirit about her, she was truly beautiful on the inside and out. My deepest sympathy to Vonnie's family and her dearest friends as you mourn her loss during this difficult time,especially during the Holidays.
I pray that God will give you comfort and peace.
Howard Blevins
November 29, 2010
I`m so very sorry to hear about Vonnie and her passing. My heart goes out to her family and friends, especialy her Mom and Jeff who I knew as a kid. We grew up on Brent St. together,from the time I was 8 years old. We played and rode our bikes and went to elementry,Jr.High and High school together. We worked for Bobby Peck Sr. at the La Casita Sanish restruant also, From the time I was twelve years old till I went to Viet Nam in the servise. Vonnie was such a sweet beautiful loving girl, my she find peace in heaven.
November 29, 2010
My deepest sympathies to all of Vonnie's family. I only knew her briefly at Ventura High School, but she made a life long impression on me with the kindness and sweetness she projected to everyone. I'm sure that heaven is blessed with her presence.
Wil Quintana
November 28, 2010
So sorry to hear that she had passed away. My heart goes out to her loved ones. We went to high school together and it was good to hear how she hadn't changed. What a nice person.
Sherry Clover
November 28, 2010
I was very saddened to hear about Vonnie. She was truly an influence in my life and a huge part of my High School years. I saw her from time to time and we were always so glad to see each other. She was the epitome of grace, always.
Joe Tucker
November 28, 2010
To friends and family,
Joe Tucker here, in Poway, CA.
I went to school with Vonnie at Cabrillo and Ventura HS, and graduated in 1966 with her. My memories of Vonnie are that of a very sweet and fun person, always good to others, always smiling, and a true friend to everyone.
I am sorry to her this news, and send my thoughts your way and to Vonnie.
Joe Tucker
November 27, 2010
It is of great sadness to hear Vonnie has past.She was truly a unique person not many as loveable,honest and sincere as she. We were high school friends and neighbors. May God hold you all close and give you comfort at this difficult time. Vonnie will truly be missed.It is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye to a dear friend. Geri Ortega Romo
November 27, 2010
Jim(Coach), Family Members and Friends: We are so saddened that our Vonnie has left us to be with the lord, but no more suffering and pain. Our greatest respect and condolences are with you Coach, who took such loving care of her. She couldn't have had a better nurse. We will miss her very much and pray that you can find strength in your friends and family coach to get through this tragedy as best you can. We love you dearly, Joe and Sheila Bibby
Roy Alsup
November 27, 2010
Dear Anthony, Shane, Mike, Family and friends:
So Sorry for your Loss, my prayers are with you at this difficult time.
My prayers are with you today may the good lord comfort you.
I only had the opportunity to meet Vonnie a couple of times but was impressed with her kind and caring spirit.
God Bless Each of you as you have special needs.
John and Janet Plait
November 26, 2010
Coach and family members, please accept our prayers and deepest condolences. We will miss Vonnie dearly, but find comfort in the knowledge that she is safe in the loving arms of our Lord.
Virginia Peck
November 25, 2010
My mother Virginia Peck has asked me to post this, she is not a computer person. She sends her love to Frankie, Laurie, Vonnie's boys and Jim. She wants you all to know about the special memories she has of Vonnie from the time Vonnie was 3 years old. She remembers the visit to Auburn with Jim and the one with Frankie, Laurie and Brenna with love and fond memories and Thanks them for bringing Vonnie to see us. Vonnie will always be in our hearts!
Steve and Susie Smith
November 24, 2010
We are all very sorry to hear the sad news. We can only hope that your years of happiness and many good memories will enable you to live with this sad loss.
Sincerely, Steve, Susie, Skyler and Stuart Smith.
Sherry Reece
November 23, 2010
I always felt that we would have time to come together again after our busy lives settled down to reminisce about the summer days we spent as teens in the 1960’s when the family would come to Fresno to visit. But, as we know, life comes at us it does not wait for us.
We were second cousins and only 10 months apart in age. We had fun cruising the “Main” (at a time before regional Malls, and yes, there was such a time), going to drive-in-movies, and the swim park, and most importantly, looking so very MOD and stylish. Vonnie knew all of the newest styles I only tried my best to be cool. It was after all, a time that was all about the hair, the clothes, the shoes (as many pairs of cute brightly colored sandals as we could afford), and again the hair!
We did stay in touch over the years although not as much as I would have liked. Thanks to Frankie I was able to visit with Vonnie several weeks ago. She was beautiful and no different than when we were teenagers so many years ago. What stood out about Vonnie was her kindness, gentle compassion for others and incredible patience. I will forever miss her and will keep her words, her wisdom, and her memory close to my heart.
Jim we love you. The life and journeys you shared together brought her happiness and peace.
Robert (Bobby) Peck
November 23, 2010
We are so glad we went to Ventura to see Vonnie days before she left us. Thanks to Laurie and Shane for telling me she probably would not make it until Thanksgiving. She will be so missed by all who knew her. She has been my friend since we were little kids on Brent St. and remained my "our" friend throughout life.
Patrick Tafoya
November 23, 2010
On behalf of my family we would like to send our condolences to all of the family. Your daughter, sister, mother, grandmother,cousin, auntie, friends, and companion was a wonderful, caring, and kind woman. She was so kool! One time when I was playing Pony baseball at De Anza Jr. High, I didn't have enough money to buy corn burritos and a coke after a game and she still sold them to me. She had a heart of gold and I will never forget that. That was the kind of woman she was, always caring and giving to others. The world has suffered a loss but we are gaining another loved one who is going to a mansion to prepare many rooms in it for all of us and we will one day be reunited in JOY and in GLORY!! My family and I will pray for all of you and we send our condolences to all of you at this time of transition. Peace be with you. Patrick, Rachel, Brieanna, Katherine "Kat " Tafoya. J.M.J.
November 23, 2010
I only knew Yvonne from Long's photo department. She was the best clerk at Long's!! She always had the very best attitude and the best customer service in Ventura. What an inspiration she was to all who knew her. My thoughts and prayers are with you, her family.
Vicki Stowell, Ventura, CA
November 22, 2010
Anthony (Coach),
Your Mom spotted some baseball pictures with me at Longs and you remember that is where I first met her. What a smile she had. Alsways willing to help. I have some in-laws that went to school with her at VHS. Was always glad to have those updates when I saw you on the field at Buena. Will try to make it on the 4th. Thinking of you my good friend.
Chuck Eskew
Channel Coast Baseball Umpires
Joan Alstot (Knouse)
November 22, 2010
Very sorry to hear about Vonnie, she really was one of the nicest people I ever met, always smiling, and friendly. I worked with her for a few years at La Casita, and am glad I got to know her. Then ran into her a few years later at Longs, and with Jim,and was happy to see she was enjoying life.
My thoughts and prayers are with her family in this time of loss. Remember Vonnie will always be in your hearts to listen to you.
Lisa Poush - Koppelman
November 22, 2010
Dearest Frankie, Vonnie's family and friends,
Saddened to hear of Vonnie's passing. I don't know when I met Vonnie.....I went to Alice Arnold's daycare and also was taken to La Casita from birth. Vonnie was friends with Lani, alice's daughter and Frankie was friends with Alice and my parents. I remember, as far back as I can, wanting to look just like Vonnie with that beehive hairdo....she was so beautiful. I later worked with Vonnie at La Casita, my first waitressing job at the age of 14! Vonnie was always so kind and gracious and in later years when I would see her at Long's she was exactly the same. The last time I saw Vonnie we were both at Juan and Lilly's place on the avenue eating Mexican food, she with her sister Lori. Vonnie, you will make a lovely angel. Rest now after a life well lived.
Dorothy Douglas
November 22, 2010
Vonnie was truly special! I have memories of her kindness and sweet nature at La Casita as well as when we would happen to meet. My thoughts and prayers will be with her family and friends during this difficult time.
November 22, 2010
The many times that I spent in Long's Drug Store chatting with Vonnie were always upbeat and fun. She raved about the love of her life, her precious Jim. I hope he can be strong as he faces the future without her. I admired how Vonnie fought the cancer with unmatched bravery. May she rest in peace in The Next Place.
Love,
Mimi Macumber, Ventura
Mary Vader
November 22, 2010
With a heavy heart, I'm so sad to hear Vonnie had to leave so many that love her. I had worked with this wonderful person and never will forget her beautiful soul.
I know she is smiling down on all of us
with a twinkle in her eye.
Beth Valde-Hamilton
November 22, 2010
My condolences to Frankie and the entire Shepherd family. Special condolences to Jim who was Vonnie's wonderful partner for many years. I grew up on Brent St. across from the Shepherds. Vonnie was very special. I always enjoyed catching up when we would meet. She will truely be missed by many people.
November 22, 2010
I was deeply saddened to hear Vonnie had passed. There are so many great memories I have of growing up on Brent Street and topping the list was the "Spooky House" you all had on Halloween. :-)
All my love,
Melinda Reuel Baker
Amy Fisher
November 22, 2010
Some of the happiest memories of my childhood and teenage years were spent in Ventura visiting my Grandparents and my aunt and uncle, Rallie and Frankie Shepherd. Vonnie was my first cousin and close to my own age. We shared birthdays on the beach in Ventura and Carpenteria, and Christmas at Grandmas. We also visited when the family came to Fresno where both her maternal grandparent and my family lived. Vonnie and I shared many interests, including hair and makup creations as teenagers, and a fondness for family photos. We spend hours going over who was who in our box of old photos...
As we grew up, we lost close contact. I moved to the San Francisco Bay area while Vonnie stayed in Ventura with her growing family and large circle of friends.
I am deeply sorry we did not continue a close bond into our old age, sharing family pictures and memories once again. Vonnie was a wonderful friend as well as a cousin, and I think of her often with affection.
Her cousin, Amy
stan leighton
November 22, 2010
So sorry to hear the sad news. I have known Vonnie since the 7th grade. My condolonces to the Family
Stan Leighton
November 22, 2010
SO VERY SORRY TO HEAR DEAR VONNIE. SHE WAS THE SWEETEST PERSON YOU EVER COULD MEET. WE REMEMBER JIM TELLING US OF THEIR ADVENTURES THAT THEY WOULD TAKE. HEARD OF THE NEWS WHILE WE WERE HERE IN GEORGIA AT K.O.'S PARENTS HOUSE IN FORT VALLEY, GEORGIA.
HOPEFULLY WE WILL BE BACK IN CALIFORNIA IN TIME FOR THE GATHERING AT CAMP COMFORT. OUR PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU JIM.
LOVE ALWAYS,
JAN AND K.O. DAVIS
Michelle Hughes
November 22, 2010
Im sorry to hear about Yvonne, she was such a sweet and kind hearted person. I worked with her at Longs Drug and am glad I got to know her. She always looked on the postive side of all things, and had such a good attitude she taught me alot. Wish there was more Vonnies around! Thinking of you and your family.
Margaret Brixey -Ditmore
November 22, 2010
Vonnie was truly a beautiful person inside out. I was so lucky to have known her & spend our teenage years together at VHS. My sincere & deepest sympathy to her loving family and friends.
Linda Erwin-Watt
November 21, 2010
Dear Frankie and family, I am so sorry to hear about Vonnie, she was so sweet and beautiful and I enjoyed all our years in school together and running into her at Long's and catching up with each other.. Love and Blessings to all of you
Karen McBride
November 21, 2010
So sorry to hear about Vonnie.She was one of the sweetest persons I have known.My sympathy to all the family.
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