OBITUARIES
Robert Chavarin
56, Brawley
Gilbert Cooper Jr.
64, El Centro
Rod Goodsell
64, Holtville
Gloria Rada
80, Brawley
GLORIA RADA Nov. 4, 1940 - Jan. 22, 2021
Gloria Rada, 80 of Brawley passed peacefully on January 22, 2021.
She was born Glorianna Anderson on November 4, 1940 in Westmorland, CA where she lived with her mom, sister and three brothers until she married her 1st husband Enos Clayton. They lived in Brawley and raised their three children together. She worked as a waitress for many years at several Brawley restaurants: Armando’s, The South Gate and The Adobe. She was good at her job. She was a tough little thing who moved with lightening speed. She had quite a sassy personality. She could be stubborn but was quick to smile and laugh, even at herself. She also had no problem giving you a piece of her mind if necessary.
Years later, she met the love of her life Merl Rada while managing the local bar in Holtville, CA. They married and moved to Colorado for his job. They traveled back and forth from Colorado to California before finally retiring in Imperial Valley. They were a match made in heaven. She loved him with all her heart.They couldn’t stand to be apart so God called her home so he wouldn’t have to be alone.
She will be remembered as a good and caring mother who made the best Chicken and Dumplings and fried hamburger tacos. She was also a loving fun “Nani” to her grandkids and great grandkids. She loved to watch and play with them. They had so much fun with her when they were young. She loved babies and surprises but wasn’t too fond of sunrises. She was one of a kind who genuinely loved her family, friends, pets and of course her evening cocktail. Her family and friends will sincerely miss her straightforward, unapologetic honesty and unconditional love. She left us with many happy and some crazy memories for sure.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Merl Rada in 2019 and by her grandson, Laryn Chase Clayton in 2018. Previously by her mother and siblings.
She is survived by her sons, Danny (Janet) Clayton and Mark (Lydia) Clayton and daughter, Nicki (Dan) Eugenio; grandsons, Steven (Jay) Eugenio, Mason Clayton and Banyan Clayton. granddaughters, Kelly (Aaron) Knight, Morgan (Doran) Farar, Camry ( Jessie) Tucker, Kazlee Eugenio, Delaney and Donovan Clayton. She left behind a legacy of 19 beautiful great- grandchildren. Also, her dearest and loving cousins, Ida Mae Cummings and June Freeman who meant the world to her.
A special thank you to her caregivers Jessica Salazar and Rose Alsip and A & A Cottage View assisted living for their care and support.
A celebration of life will be held in her memory at a later date.
RODNEY GOODSELL Apr. 26, 1956 - Dec. 22, 2020
Rod Goodsell, 64, took his tender heart and talented hands around the final turn toward the home stretch on December 22, 2020. His dad Mel Goodsell waved the checkered flag as he crossed the finish line into heaven.
Rodney Melton Goodsell was born on April 26, 1956 in Jacksonville, Arkansas, the first child of Melton and Peggy Goodsell. The family grew until Rod eventually had four brothers and two sisters. Rodney attended Holtville schools, graduating from Holtville High School in 1974. He became an excellent mechanic working for various employers through the years including a long stint at his father’s side working for Agri- Cool, Inc. Following that time, he worked for many years at Valley Harvesting and Packing in Heber. Rod was most recently employed at RDO Equipment Co. in Imperial at the time of his death.
From a very young age, Rodney could twist wrenches with the best of them. He built and rebuilt various off- road and fast- track machines for himself and many others. He also excelled behind the wheel of racing vehicles. He was a local stock car champion at the Imperial Raceway.
Rod and David Marini achieved notable success together in the 2- 1600 class at many off- road events including first place finishes at both the Mint 400 and a shortened Baja 1000 which moved to Barstow in 1984. Rodney married his high school sweetheart Judy Smith in 1974. The couple made their home in Holtville for all these years. He leaves behind three sons: Nathan (Jennifer), Shelby (Heidi), Kyle (Debra), and eight grandchildren who will dearly miss their desert outings with grandpa. Rod was preceded in death by his brother Glen Goodsell and his father Melton Goodsell. Memorial services will be announced at a later time.
ROBERT CHAVARIN Feb. 7, 1964 - Jan. 26, 2021
Robert Chavarin, 56, of Brawley passed away on January 26, 2021 due to secondary COVID related issues at Riverside University Medical Center.
He was born on February 7, 1964 in San Luis Rio Colorado, Sonora. In early years he worked as a mechanic and later in life worked in agriculture for over 35 years and took pride in his work. He was a dedicated father. His interest included, cars, tattoos, dancing, and living life to the fullest.
He is survived by his mother, Eusevia Chavarin; partner, Rosa Ramos, his children, Sophia, Robert Jr., and Isela. Along with his grandchildren Bud, Mariah, Vivi, Sabrina, Nina, Sergio, Cali, and Kash; his dog, Baby; siblings, Antonio, Carlos, Cesar, Jose, Lupita, Patty and Sylvia.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 23, 2021 at 6 p.m. at Frye Chapel and Mortuary in Brawley with Rosary being said at 7 p.m. Service will be held on Wednesday, February 24, 2021 at 10 a.m. at Saint Margaret Mary Church in Brawley and will be officiated by Father Andrew. Burial will follow at 12 p.m. at Riverview Cemetery in Brawley.
GILBERT COOPER JR. Feb. 28, 1956 - Jan. 28, 2021
Gilber Cooper Jr., 64, of El Centro, CA passed away on Thursday, January 28, 2021.
He was a skilled Electrician and was always willing to help others with his talents. He was a kind, loving Brother, son and Father.
He was preceded in death by Mother Esperanza Cooper and Brother Robert Cooper.
He is survived by Daughter Kenna Mercado (Cooper); grandchildren Jonathan Puga, Joe Anthony Puga, Savannah L. Mercado, Jerry K. Romero, Jr.; father Gilbert Cooper; sisters Sandra Cooper, Lisa Bro (Cooper) and several nieces, nephews.
Services to be held at a future date.