Maxine LaVino
1923 - 2009, Santa Barbara
Courtesy Photo
Maxine LaVino passed away peacefully in Santa Barbara Wednesday afternoon, October 21st, in the care of the gifted staff at Serenity House, with her family near. In the last several years the focus of her love and attention was her faithful companion, Sammy the cat. She enjoyed playing bridge, gardening, reading and the challenge of a good crossword puzzle.
Maxine was born April 15, 1923 on the family farm in rural Walters, Oklahoma, where she spent her youth. After high school she moved to Lawton, Oklahoma, to attend Cameron College until World War II broke out. After the war she moved to Oklahoma City. She worked at a music store there, a job she thoroughly enjoyed. In the early 1950’s Maxine relocated to Bakersfield where she met her husband, Vincent LaVino. They married in 1954. A few years later they were blessed with the birth of their daughter, Christina. Maxine enjoyed a 20-year career with Jaco Oil Company, in Bakersfield. She often spoke fondly of her time there, feeling close to the family who founded the company. Upon her retirement she moved to Santa Barbara to be near her daughter and family.
Maxine is preceded in death by her husband, Vincent; parents, Debbie and Cole Elliott; and her four brothers, Claud, Ray, Roy and Wayne. Her daughter, Christina LaVino and son-in-law Delbert Britschgi survive her.
The family wishes to thank all of the staff and volunteers from Visiting Nurse and Hospice, especially Dr. Kearney, Ditta, Cheryl and Maricela, for the loving care provided to Maxine and the family during this time. Her final days were spent in the warmth and love of Serenity House.
A simple graveside service is planned for Monday, October 26th at 11:00 am at Hillcrest Memorial Park and Mortuary in Bakersfield.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Visiting Nurse and Hospice Care Foundation of Santa Barbara, 222 E. Canon Perdido Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101.
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