Hilario “Ely Sr.” Simental, born Nov. 3, 1931, passed away at 82 on March 18.
Ely Sr. was an Oxnard resident for more than 60 years. He was born and raised in Valparaiso, Zacatecas in Mexico and came to California at 17 years old.
Ely Sr. worked for Barrera’s Septic and then owned his own restaurant. He then formed his own business C&S Septic, based out of Malibu, in 1974. He established a reputation of being a well-known and respected business man in the Malibu area. He refused to retire and continued to work for his son, Ely Jr., until his last days.
Many of those who knew him were pleased by his great sense of humor and a strong character.
He will be remembered for his unique airbrushed black Bronco, his black vest, black Stetson hat and iconic belt buckles, and his fist full of gold rings.
He is survived by his wife, five brothers, two sisters, 11 children, 32 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.
Visitation for Ely Sr. will be on March 26 at 12 p.m., with a prayer service at 6 p.m. at the Garcia Mortuary Chapel, 629 South A Street, Oxnard. Graveside services will take place at 11 a.m. on March 27 at Santa Clara Cemetery in Oxnard. For further information, please call 805.486.9148.