* Gladys Aguayo; Ventura Businesswoman

Gladys Aguayo, former co-owner of Trico Venetian Blinds, died Wednesday at Community Memorial Hospital in Ventura. She was 91.

She was born Gladys Maye Dean on June 13, 1908, in Staten Island, N. Y. Her family moved to Los Angeles when she was a child and she attended school in Southern California.

In her early 20s, she went on a blind date with Al Aguayo and they married in 1931.

The couple moved to Ventura in 1939, where they raised their family. The Aguayos also started their business in Ventura, Trico Venetian Blinds.

During the 1940s and ‘50s, Gladys Aguayo had a child-care center at their home in the midtown area.

Her daughter, Marilyn Cadinha of Ventura, said her mother enjoyed gardening, particularly growing roses and irises. Her mother also had a good sense of humor. Cadinha said that when her mother was younger, she loved to dance and ride roller coasters.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years in 1985.

In addition to her daughter, Aguayo is survived by a son, Bob Aguayo of Ventura; a sister, Grace Verhurst of Yucca Valley; four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family said a memorial contribution can be made to the local hospice or a charity of the giver’s choice.

In accordance with her wishes, no memorial service will be held.

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