Elvina Cecelia Marquez, 96, of Ventura, CA, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2025, in Ventura surrounded by her family. Elvina was born in Ventura to William Anselmo Elwell and Helen Valdez Elwell on September 16, 1928. She attended May Henny School and Ventura High School. She enjoyed sewing, gardening, spending time with family and of course shopping.
She was raised in the historic Tortilla Flats neighborhood, amongst many other historic native families of the Ventura area. Working as a seamstress for many years, she continued sewing as one of her favorite hobbies along with caring for her beautiful rose garden. She was involved in the Young Ladies’ Grand Institute #160 woman’s club and a dedicated volunteer at Community
Memorial Hospital as one of the ‘Pink Ladies’ for over 30 years.
Elvina is survived by her daughter, Linda Santillanes of Ventura, her brother Bill Elwell of Simi Valley, three grandchildren Joseph Santillanes, Rita Reading and Michael Marquez, eight great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren. Elvina is preceded in death by her husband Mike Victor Marquez, her parents, son Michael Victor Marquez II, siblings; Florence Elwell, Viola Lopez and Evelyn Martinez, along with many beloved nieces, nephews and friends.
A Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be held at the Old Mission, San Buenaventura, on May 29, 2025, at 9:00 a.m., followed by the graveside internment service at Ivy Lawn Memorial Park, Ventura. Arrangements are under the direction of JOSEPH P. REARDON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE, Ventura.