Robert Olmstead; Mechanic for Santa Paula

Robert Olmstead, a mechanic for the city of Santa Paula, died at his home Saturday. He was 44.

Olmstead was born Dec. 23, 1952, in Los Angeles. He moved from Panorama City to Ventura County 19 years ago, drawn by the region’s quiet lifestyle.

Olmstead spent as much time as he could with his family, said his brother, David Olmstead of Ventura.

“He was your typical working man, doing whatever he could to get a better life for his family,” David Olmstead said. “His kids were very important to him; he was devoted to his family.”

When he was 20, Olmstead started a career as a mechanic and worked primarily for the city of Santa Paula. He lived in Ventura.

“I worked right beside him for four years,” said Gene French, Olmstead’s supervisor. He called Olmstead a gifted mechanic who worked hard.

“He was a real active guy, real funny, always trying to make someone laugh,” French said. “He was such a nice guy.”

In addition to his brother, Olmstead is survived by his wife, Theresa; daughters Brandy, Lisa and Katee Olmstead and Molly and Natalie Dorr, all of Ventura; his mother, Vera of Santa Maria; brother James of Valencia, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Graveside services will be at 1 p.m. Thursday at Ivy Lawn Memorial Park in Ventura, with the Rev. Jim Wells officiating.

Arrangements are under the direction of Ted Mayr Funeral Home, Ventura.

Buntain, Myrtle Ellen, 91, of Santa Paula, homemaker. Pierce Brothers Stetler Mortuary, Santa Paula.

De Leon, Carmen V., 92, of Santa Paula, retired cook with Barbara Webster Elementary School. Pierce Brothers Stetler Mortuary, Santa Paula.

Wagg, Oliver H., 87, of Camarillo, retired salesman with Rose Brothers. Pierce Brothers Griffin Mortuary, Camarillo.

Ventura County obituaries are published free of charge as a public service to readers. Obituaries are based on information provided by mortuaries.