Archived Obituaries

Merle Blanchard, 86, passed away at his home in Placerville, CA on October 23, 2006, of age-related causes. He was born in Campbell, CA on November 16, 1919 to John Lee and Bessie Mae Blanchard.

Former San Benito County resident, Jennie Padilla Ingram, passed away at Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno at the age of 71 years after a three month illness.

On Sunday, October 22nd, 2006, Manfred Dreblow passed away quietly after a long illness.

Masayo Yokoyama is survived by her husband of 64 years, Torao Yokoyama, her children Ray (Jo Ann) Yokoyama, Lily (Allan) Kawafuchi, Dale (Gordon) Mizuno, June Yokoyama Otaguro, Don (Glenda) Yokoyama and her grandchildren, Dereck and Justin Hanada, Kyle Kawafuchi, Ricky and Marie Mizuno, and Zachary and Rachel Yokoyama.

Abel Alves Ferreira, 88, died on Oct. 24, 2006, at Valley Gardens Convalescent Home and Rehab Center after a recent hip surgery.

Modeen will be missed by all who knew and loved her for her courageous spirit and wonderful sense of humor. She is survived by her loving grandson, Shane Grider of Australia, her 3 great granddaughters, and her devoted sister, Ruby Fortino of Gilroy, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Masayo Yokoyama is survived by her husband of 64 years, Torao Yokoyama, her children; Ray (Jo Ann) Yokoyama, Lily (Allan) Kawafuchi, Dale (Gordon) Mizuno, June Yokoyama Otaguro, Don (Glenda) Yokoyama and her Grandchildren, Dereck and Justin Hanada, Kyle Kawafuchi, Ricky and Marie Mizuno, and Zachary and Rachel Yokoyama.

Julia Mary garcia passed away at 104 years old. She was preceded in death by husband Porfirio and son Leo. She is survived by sons Edward, Norman and their families; beloved mother, grandmother, great- grandmother, great-great-grandmother and aunt. Visitation begins 9 am Monday at Habing Family Funeral Home, and the Funeral Mass at 11:30 am Monday at St. Mary Catholic Church.

Joe Ruiz passed away at Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital on Sunday, October 22nd, at the age of 72 years. Joe was a native of Hollister, attended local schools, and lived here all his life. Joe could be recognized pedaling his bicycle through out San Benito County and especially downtown Hollister, stopping at his favorite coffee shops to visit with his many friends. He enjoyed visiting with people and offering a helping hand to anyone who needed assistance. Illness forced him to stop bicycling a year ago. Joseph had been an employee of Yamanishi Farms, as well as the Hollister Cannery; and is a member of Sacred Heart Parish.

Surrounded by a loving family, Toshio passed away peacefully at St. Louise Hospital in Gilroy, CA.