Joseph M. Carabajal; Veterinary Assistant

Following a lengthy illness, Ventura resident Joseph M. Carabajal died Wednesday at his home, his family by his side. He was 91.

Carabajal was born Sept. 11, 1907, in King City near Monterey, and was a resident of Ventura for the past 76 years.

He worked as a veterinary assistant for 70 years, starting at age 14. Carabajal worked with several doctors until his retirement at the age of 85.

Carabajal was a member of the San Buenaventura Mission, where he served as past president of the Holy Name Society. He also volunteered as a Eucharistic minister and usher for several years.

For his 40 years of service at the mission, Carabajal was given an award of appreciation.

He was preceded in death by first wife Martha Cordero Carabajal, to whom he was married for 63 years.

He is survived by his second wife, Mary Garcia Carbajal Carabajal of Ventura; a daughter, Rose Marie Esperance of Ventura; two stepsons, Gilbert Carbajal of Spain and Ronald Carbajal of Fresno; four grandchildren; nine great grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

There will be a visitation from 2 to 7:30 p.m. Monday at Joseph P. Reardon Funeral Home in Ventura. A rosary will be recited at 7:30 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.

Services are set for 8:45 a.m. Tuesday at the San Buenaventura Mission with burial to follow at Ivy Lawn Memorial Park in Ventura.

Memorial contributions can be made to Holy Cross School’s building fund, in care of the San Buenaventura Mission in Ventura.