Tarah Vanzuyen
Tribute
Tarah Rene Vanzuyen (née Highfill), born on March 7, 1977, in Oxnard, California, passed away on August 8, 2024, at the age of 47 in Hanford, California. She is predeceased by her adoptive father, James Highfill, her biological mother, Judy Hicks, and her beloved partner, Steve Pérez. Tarah is survived by her loving daughter, Samantha Highfill; her brothers, Nathan Wells, Jason Freeman, Michael Freeman, Russell Highfill (Sydney), and Jason Highfill (Jeanette); her sister, Anne Marie Pérez; her mother, Sandra Highfill; her grandson, Wyatt Highfill; and several nieces and nephews including Rebecca, Justus (Whitley), Jake (Hayley), and Jace (Hevyn) Highfill. Tarah attended Hanford High School and later dedicated her career to helping others as an in-home healthcare worker with IHHS. Known for her adventurous spirit and goofy sense of humor, Tarah loved to laugh. Her hobbies included coloring, painting, and swimming, activities that brought joy and relaxation into her life. Despite her struggles with addiction and health issues, including congestive heart failure which she battled bravely since January 2024, Tarah's faith remained strong. Her family takes comfort in knowing she is at peace and no longer suffering. In accordance with her wishes, no services will be held. Tarah's family expresses gratitude for the support during this difficult time and cherishes the memories they have of her.