In Passing

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Nancy Mondzak

On Dec. 1, 2024, Nancy peacefully entered the presence of her Lord Jesus. She passed away due to complications from surgery and had been battling Alzheimer’s.

Nancy was born in Waltham, Mass., in 1944 and moved with her family to Pleasanton, Calif. She retired to the PebbleCreek community in Goodyear, Ariz., in October 2004. A graduate of Framingham State College, Nancy began her career as a teacher before transitioning to the high-tech industry, ultimately retiring from a senior role at Sun Microsystems. She loved volunteering at her church after her retirement.

She is lovingly remembered by her second husband, Michael Mondzak, whom she married in 2002. She was predeceased by her first husband, Bob Furlong, in 1997. Nancy is survived by her daughters, Lynne Cornelius, Kara Torrao, and stepdaughter Raelyn Kritzer. She was predeceased by her son, Mark, who passed away at the age of 2. Her legacy lives on through her three cherished grandchildren: Connor and Caden Torrao and Emerson Cornelius.

Nancy’s life was one of love, resilience, and dedication to her family, career, and church, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her. She was a member of CCV Church.

Lola Warner

Lola Warner, a longtime resident of PebbleCreek, passed away in Goodyear on Nov. 30, 2024. Lola was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Basil, and their two sons, John and David. She was born in Oak Park, Ill., on Oct. 14, 1933, to Frank Graf and Rose Kallas Graf. She is survived by her beloved granddaughters, Carrie and Dana, Dana’s husband, Matt, and great-grandchildren, Raelynn, Matthew, and Lincoln. Her cat buddy, Leo, will make his new home with Dana and Matt.

She and Basil met in high school and married soon after. In her young life, she worked as a telephone operator. If you visited her home, you would see a great collection of old-dial phones displayed. She delighted in showing them to young folks who were often mystified as to what they were.

Lola lived in Arizona for most of her adult life. She worked at Glendale Community College in the media department until she retired. After they retired, Lola and Basil traveled the world. They were independent and adventuresome travelers. One of their favorite trips was traveling around Europe by train with only their backpacks. They stayed in hostels and even met distant relatives in a small village in Germany.

Lola and Basil moved to PebbleCreek in 1996 when it was still a budding community. Lola liked to tell her friends that she could see the new Safeway at Litchfield Road from her front yard. She and Basil participated in the many developing clubs, including golf, and helped get the tennis club started. They fostered (and adopted) dogs from the Pet Companion Club. She volunteered with the new Kare Bears organization. Lola loved her Mah Jongg group and continued to play until her death. She was a great ambassador for PebbleCreek and a wealth of knowledge for new residents.

Lola was unassuming and witty. She was a delight to be with and leaves those of us who loved and enjoyed her with a heavy heart. Rest in peace dear Lola.

Daniel Rodrigues

Daniel Rodrigues, 73, of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away peacefully on Nov. 28, 2024. Born on Sept. 16, 1951, Daniel was a man of many talents, known for his hard work, dedication, and love for life. Throughout his life, he had a variety of successful careers and earned the respect and admiration of everyone he encountered. His strong work ethic and relentless determination set him apart in everything he did.

Daniel was an avid golf enthusiast and a passionate bowler. Both games brought him great joy, whether he was playing with friends or enjoying a quiet day on the course or in the bowling alley. He was never one to meet a stranger and formed lasting friendships with all who were fortunate enough to cross his path. His warm personality, sense of humor, and kind heart made him a beloved figure among those who knew him.

Daniel is survived by his loving wife, Yvonne; his daughter, Dawn; his grandchildren, Kyndall and Jackson; and his great-grandchildren, Ayla and Wiley. He is also survived by his sisters, Rosemarie, Cindy, and Becky, who held a special place in his heart, as well as his brother-in-law, Tony, his nephew, Danny, many loving cousins, the mother of his daughter and friend, Lana, and his beloved fur baby, Louie.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. A celebration of his life will be held on Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025, in the Chianti Room in PebbleCreek community (16262 Clubhouse Drive, Goodyear, AZ, 85395) at 11:30 a.m. where we will honor the memory of a man who left an indelible mark on the world around him.

May Daniel rest in peace, and may his legacy of hard work, love, and friendship live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Karen Gail Morgan

Karen Gail Morgan, aged 82, passed away peacefully and holding her husband’s hand, in Goodyear, Ariz., on Nov. 28, 2024.

Karen was born Jan. 12, in Los Angeles, Calif., to parents Georgette and Gail Watson. She moved to Stockton when she was just a few months old as her father had an opportunity to own and operate a business selling Schwinn bicycles.

Karen graduated from St. Mary’s High School in 1957, and went on to pursue an administrative career with various organizations in the Stockton area, before purchasing Do Re Mi Nursery and Preschool in 1983. Karen successfully ran and expanded the business through the mid-1990s, but an aggressive, life-threatening cancer curtailed her ability to teach and develop young children, and forced her retirement and subsequent disposition of the business. Throughout her business career, Karen was known for kindness and compassion in helping others, as well as dedication, hard work, leadership, humor, and immeasurable care.

She was a devoted mother and stepmother, best friend to many, and incredible wife to her husband Frank. She loved spending time with family and always showed in her kind, calm, unique manner, her support, guidance, encouragement and undying love, no matter what challenges were being faced.

In her free time Karen loved to play golf and mahjong, she also loved to dance, read, make ceramics, attend the theater, and watch movies.

Following her husband’s retirement, she moved with him to Goodyear and the PebbleCreek community. She joined various clubs that enabled her to pursue her passions including the PebbleCreek Ladies 9-Hole Golf Association. She ultimately served two terms as President of the organization and loved working with fellow members in various positions following her term as President.

Karen is survived by her loving husband of 41 years, Frank, sons Michael Maris and Brian Maris, stepdaughters Jane Morgan and Alison Yocum, grandchildren, Jordan, Sydney, Jena, Carter, Ayva, and three great-grandchildren.

A private funeral service will be held for the family on Dec. 14, 2024, and a Celebration of Life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Karen’s name to Yavapai Humane Society in Prescott, Ariz.

Robert Aldridge

Robert P. Aldridge Jr., 85, of Goodyear, Ariz. (PebbleCreek Community), passed away peacefully on Nov. 9, 2024, in Goodyear. Born June 14, 1939, in Richmond, Va., Bob grew up in North Carolina with his mother, Ruth, and brothers Michael and Steven. His father passed away when Bob was just 14. Bob joined the U.S. Air Force, where he served as a fighter pilot and air traffic controller, stationed in various locations including Texas, Florida, Germany, and Washington state. He earned a degree in journalism from the University of North Carolina, where he developed a lifelong passion for the Tar Heels. Bob enjoyed many extracurricular activities in college, including theater, band, and fencing. He was also an avid dancer, always ready to hit the dance floor.

In 1969, Bob married Geanie Black, and the couple welcomed their daughter, Jonni, in 1970. After 20 years in the Air Force, Bob retired and pursued a second career in computer science. He worked as a Database Programmer for ConAgra Foods before retiring again to enjoy life at PebbleCreek in Goodyear, where he and Geanie made lifelong friends.

A talented cook, Bob spent hours perfecting his dishes, particularly his signature pasta carbonara, learned during a trip to Italy. He was passionate about words and loved sharing his love of science fiction, crossword puzzles, and music with his daughter. Bob was also an avid golfer, enjoyed road trips, and spent much time with friends at PebbleCreek. His deep love for animals, especially dogs, was evident, though he chose not to adopt another after losing his last two pets.

Bob was a proud and supportive husband, always cheering on Geanie in her successful career. His pride extended to his daughter and grandchildren, Logan and Campbell, whom he adored. He cherished the time spent with them, sharing stories of his travels and life experiences. Logan affectionately called him “Gum Gum,” a nickname Bob grew to love.

Bob was a natural conversationalist, always engaging with everyone from service workers to close friends. His Thursdays were often spent playing Mexican Train with friends, accompanied by cocktails and stories. He also had an extensive music collection, particularly jazz, and was known for his unique whistling, a constant soundtrack to his busy life.

Bob was preceded in death by his father, Robert Aldridge, his mother, Ruth Aldridge, and his brother Steven Aldridge. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Geanie Aldridge; daughter Jonni Ressler (Toby); grandchildren Logan and Campbell Ressler; and his brother Michael Aldridge (Donna).

A celebration of life will be held in early 2025. In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob’s memory can be made to organizations supporting Vietnam Veterans or the National Ambucs (ambucs.org) (P.O. Box 5127, High Point, N.C. 27262).

Walter Leslie Hunt

Walter Leslie Hunt of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away on Oct. 17, 2024, at the age of 84. Walt was born on May 24, 1940, in Philadelphia, Pa., one of three children, and is survived by a younger sister and brother. After graduating from Penn State University with a Bachelor of Science degree, he served in the United States Air Force and then joined Bell Labs in New Jersey as a computer programmer for several years. He spent the rest of his career with the Unisys Corporation in Blue Bell, Pa., residing in North Wales. There, Walt particularly enjoyed working with the Boy Scouts, playing tennis, and riding his motorcycles!

After retirement, he relocated to Goodyear in 2000. He is survived by his wife, Arlene, four children, eight grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren and their loving families.

Walt was active in the Christ Presbyterian Church in Goodyear and volunteered for over 20 years at the Agua Fria Food Bank in Avondale. Walt was known to family and friends by his watercolors. He framed many, many of his watercolors to give out to patrons of the Food Bank, family, and friends. He especially liked to create pictures for birthday and Christmas cards every year, along with Arlene.

Privately, he was entertained with his guitars and many books of sheet music. He also enjoyed his daily early morning bike rides, while greeting other bikers and walkers. He will always be remembered by friends for his sense of humor and easy-going personality.

A private family service was held on Oct. 23, 2024, at the Christ Presbyterian Church where he will be interred.

Sam Cardinale

Sam “George” Cardinale, son of Sam and Agnes Cardinal, was born on May 8, 1945, in Pueblo, Colo. On Oct. 14, 2024, he left us far too soon, passing unexpectedly in Goodyear, Ariz. At his side was his beloved wife, Julie, whom he married in 1997, and nearby, his loyal Shelties, Scout and Ranger. His passing, believed to have been due to a stroke, leaves a profound absence for all who knew him.

Sam’s life was one filled with laughter, friendship, and unwavering loyalty. His wife Julie, brothers Bob Cardinale, Dave Cardinal, and his lifelong friends, Joe and Tammy Khan, as well as Mark Matthews, will feel his absence deeply. Sam was the kind of friend everyone wants—devoted, generous, and quick to share a joke or lend a hand.

After graduating from South High School in Pueblo, Colo., in 1963, Sam pursued a degree in marketing at Santa Clara University, graduating in 1967. Over his career, Sam worked in human resources at some of the most reputable companies in the country, including The Bank of California, Levi Strauss, National Semiconductor, General Motors, Corn Nuts, Kendall Jackson, and Santen. Following his retirement, Sam and Julie made their home in Goodyear, Ariz., where they enjoyed the sunny days and slower pace of life.

Sam was known for his passions, and he pursued them all with gusto. A longtime golfer, he recently celebrated the proud achievement of “shooting his age” at 79—a feat few can claim. He was also an enthusiastic pickleball player, known for teaching the game to anyone willing to learn. And no one could rival Sam’s dedication to cars; he even turned his passion for car detailing into a business for a while. Sam was a talented stained-glass artist, crafting beautiful, intricate pieces for his family and friends. His very first creation was a heartfelt tribute to his mother, Agnes, who often said, “Give people their flowers while they can still smell them.” Honoring her wisdom, Sam made her a beautiful red rose in stained glass, a symbol of his love and her enduring influence on his life. He carried her words in his heart, offering not just flowers but bouquets of laughter, compassion, and kindness to everyone he met.

He was known for organizing get-togethers, filling any room with warmth and laughter. Alongside his brothers, he established a treasured annual tradition of a “brothers-only” weekend around their mother Agnes’s birthday. From Vegas to New Orleans, these trips were a mix of bonding, family stories, good-natured ribbing, and a few Italian-American family relations. Sam often joked, “I’m smiling because you’re my brothers, and I’m laughing because there’s nothing you can do about it.”

Sam was deeply connected to the Divine, and his spiritual side shone bright in many ways. Each morning, he began his day with an affirmation from the Daily Word, a practice he maintained faithfully, no matter where his journeys led him.

Sam Cardinale’s warmth, humor, and kindness will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

There will be a private family Celebration of Life in Lafayette, Colo.

Arlene Ascencio

Arlene Ascencio, loving and devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother “Gramsie,” and cherished friend of many, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024.

Born Sept. 12, 1937, and raised in Chicago, Ill., she lived in New Jersey and worked in New York City before moving to the PebbleCreek community in 2001. She truly loved her community.

“R” was a past president of the Singles Club and a devoted “Kare Bear.” She greatly enjoyed many activities like bocce ball, Mexican train, card games, and Wii bowling with her dear friends. She was a great fan of the arts, loved opera, jazz, and the symphony. She loved cooking and entertaining her friends with that gift.

Arlene’s biggest smiles came from sharing facetime with her great-grandchildren and sharing those stories.

She is predeceased by her daughter Susan (1992). Arlene is survived by her daughter Tina Barker (Alan), her granddaughters Alicia Gonzalez (Richard), Andrea Caruso (Michael), and her four great-grandchildren Brenden, Ashton, Wesley, and Rosalie.

She will be greatly missed by so many.

A Celebration of Life event will be held Tuesday, Oct. 29 at 11 a.m. at the Tuscany Falls Clubhouse.

George Bernard “Bernie” Dant

George Bernard “Bernie” Dant passed peacefully in Ann Marie’s arms on Aug. 16, 2024. The youngest son of Mary Daily and Joseph Dant, he was born April 23, 1933, at home in Montgomery, Ind. After graduating from Washington Catholic High School, Bernie attended Vincennes University and graduated from Indiana State University with a B.A. in Mathematics. He received his master’s in Applied Mathematics from Indiana University where he met his future wife, Ann Marie Goysich. They were married in Hammond, Ind. on Aug. 26, 1961.

Bernie began working as a computer programmer for the emerging U.S. satellite program in the 1960s, traveling extensively stateside and abroad. His career afforded the family the opportunity to live in California, Colorado, Virginia, and Bremen, Germany. Bernie and Ann Marie retired and lived in Arizona for 30 years, first in Fountain Hills and later in Goodyear. During retirement, Bernie pursued a nearly 20-year second career as a math instructor for Rio Salado Community College.

Ann Marie and Bernie loved to travel and achieved their “Bucket List” goal of visiting all 50 states. While in Arizona, they participated actively in church and community life. Bernie served as a lector and Lay Minister at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, volunteered with St. Vincent de Paul, and was a long-time member of the Knights of Columbus. He sang with the Scottsdale Symphony Chorus, the Fountain Hills Chorus, and the PebbleCreek Singers and Community Theater. He served with Ann Marie as an usher at the Herberger Theater and volunteered at the Goodyear Baseball Park.

Bernie was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings, and Ann Marie’s parents.

Bernie is survived by his loving wife, Ann Marie and his children, Marifrances Dant Bolger (David) of John’s Island, S.C., and Robert Joseph Dant (Kelly) of Hickory. His grandchildren are Lauren Bolger of New York City, Michael Bolger of Philadelphia, and Ross and Ryan Dant of Raleigh. Bernie loved God, his family, and his fellow man and touched the lives of many with his faith, generosity, talent, and love.

Visitation will be from 3 to 5 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 19 followed by Rosary and reception at Menke Funeral Home, 12420 N. 103rd Ave in Sun City. A Funeral Mass will be held at 9:45 a.m. Friday, Sept. 20 at St. Thomas Aquinas, 13720 W. Thomas Rd., Avondale, Ariz. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to St. Vincent de Paul.

Tom Keane

Thomas Michael Keane, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, died on Aug. 13 at the age of 74. Born on Jan. 26, 1950, in The Bronx, N.Y., Tom lived a life marked by a profound love for his family and community.

Tom graduated from Fordham Preparatory School in 1968, and from Fordham University in 1972. He began working in Manhattan as a telephone repairman for the New York Telephone Company after college. Tom continued in telecommunications, spending over four decades of his career at AT&T. In addition to serving as International Sales Manager, he was a union steward who advocated for employee rights.

Growing up, Tom played basketball and football, and continued to watch these sports in his free time. He was especially proud to see his own children and grandchildren participate in athletics. Tom was an avid gardener, chess player, reader, and film enthusiast. He enjoyed travel and loved outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, canoeing, and rafting, which allowed him to appreciate the beauty and wonder of nature.

Tom was a Scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 36 in Oradell, N.J. He mentored and trained young men, including his own sons, who are both Eagle Scouts, in responsible citizenship, character development, and self-reliance. He gave back to his community in other meaningful ways as well. Tom was a blood donor, contributing over three gallons to New York Blood Center over the course of his life, efforts which left a lasting impact on the lives of those in need and their families.

Tom is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of over 50 years, Donna (Abele) Keane, his two sons Christian and Patrick, his daughter Diana, and his eight cherished grandchildren, who will always remember their “Grandad” for his wisdom, humor, and unconditional love.

A celebration of Tom’s life will be held at PebbleCreek Resort Community in Goodyear, Ariz. Family and friends are welcome to post pictures and stories of Tom on the Dignity Memorial website. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his memory to The Parkinson’s Foundation and/or New York Blood Center, two organizations that were close to Tom’s heart.

Christine H. Rangsit-Cameron

Mrs. Christine H. Rangsit-Cameron of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away Aug. 8, 2024, in Phoenix, Ariz. She was born Aug. 14, 1934, in Mostaganem, Algeria, to Armand Clerc and Andree Clerc.

She spent most of her youth in the village of Chaufour-Les-Bonnieres in the Normandy region of France. After high school she moved to Paris to pursue an acting career. While there, she competed in the Miss Cinemonde contest of 1952, finishing 2nd. While in Paris, she also attended cosmetology school.

Shortly after this, she met and married her first husband Prince Sanidh Rangsit of the Thai Royal Family. They were married for 40 years and lived in Bangkok and Paris, before his passing. She subsequently moved to Tucson to be close to her daughter Valaya. There she met and married Richard L. Cameron, Major USAF (ret.). They were married for 28 years and spent many happy moments with their extended family.

Christine received her Graduate Gemologist Certificate from the Gemological Institute of America in 1983. She became a naturalized American citizen in 2004. She spoke three languages—French, Thai, and English—and played the piano with grace and style. Christine had a great passion for cooking and travel.

She is survived by her husband Richard, her daughters Valaya (Brian) and Lynda (Steve), and her sons Bryan (Jan) and David (Tammie). She is also survived by nine grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

A memorial will be held at 2 p.m. on Aug. 28, 2024, at Thompson Funeral Chapel, 926 S. Litchfield Road Goodyear, Ariz., with a reception to follow.

Philip Robert Lubman

Philip Robert Lubman, a beloved husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, and brother, passed away on Sunday, July 28, 2024 in Phoenix, Ariz., at the age of 77, after a brief battle with cancer. Born in 1946 in London, England, Phil lived most of his adult life in Canada before retiring to the United States, where he continued to lead a life rich with love, passion, and creativity.

Phil was the devoted husband to Nancy Felstein, with whom he shared many cherished years. He was the loving father of Ashton Lubman (Robyn Kelly), and the caring stepfather to Joe Felstein (Helen), Paul Felstein, and Dawn Hume. His family was his pride and joy, and he took immense pleasure in spending time with his grandchildren: Aaron, Kendall, Nathan, and Olivia. He is also survived by his sister Sharon, with whom he shared a close bond.

Phil had a profound passion for music, cartoons, and comics. He was deeply involved in the music industry as a producer and record company executive. Originally in the UK, Phil moved to Canada in the 1970s and became the president of P.J. Imports. In 1978, he co-founded Bomb Records, a venture that marked a significant contribution to the Canadian music scene. In 1998, he co-founded the musicmusicmusic corporate venture, one of the internet’s first radio stations, pioneering the way music was shared and enjoyed online. He also provided input to the U.S. Congress on the Digital Millennium Copyright Act of 1997.

A true music enthusiast, Phil enjoyed collecting record albums, amassing an impressive collection that reflected his diverse tastes and deep appreciation for the art form. He also found immense joy and fulfillment in directing his Rock & Roll shows in the PebbleCreek Community, where he was a treasured and respected figure.

A dog lover, Phil’s home was always filled with the joyful barks and wagging tails of his cherished canine companions. His love for dogs was just another testament to his kind and nurturing spirit.

Phil’s kindness, creativity, and dedication to his family and community will be remembered by all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will be held later in the fall.

Joyce Van Ornam

Joyce Elaine (Thompson) Van Ornam was born on Nov. 11, 1937, the fourth daughter of Fred Ford and Mary Edith Thompson in Dover, Del. She passed away on July 19, 2024.

She was predeceased by her parents, three sisters (Elizabeth Reed, Lillian Hopkins, and Margaret Harlow), a son Mark William Swanson, and husbands Colonel (Retired) Thomas Swanson and William Van Ornam.

Her survivors are son Eric Swanson of Peoria, Ariz., and grandson Thomas Swanson and four great-grandchildren (Faith, Tommy, Micah, and Alice Swanson) of Argyle, Minn.

Joyce grew up in Dover, Del., and graduated from high school there. She earned a bachelor’s degree cum laude from Cedar Crest College in Allentown, Pa. Advanced degrees were a master’s plus 50 in Counseling from Troy State University in Montgomery, Ala., and a master’s in School Administration from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Ariz.

A memorial service will be planned at a later time.

Marilynn (Lynn) Blomquist

Marilynn (Lynn) Blomquist was born on Dec. 8, 1936, in Chicago, Ill., to Frank and Elsie (Kruetzer) Forty. Her father served as a captain in World War II and later became part of the Chicago Transit Authority’s leadership team. Lynn’s mother was a soprano soloist and concert piano player. Unfortunately, Lynn’s parents passed away when she was a young adult.

At age 19, Lynn married Patrick Dillon. They enjoyed a traditional Midwest lifestyle and raised two daughters, Patricia and Laura. Regular Sunday dinners and outings were shared by the family with Patrick’s parents Frank and Marie. They were married for 17 years.

Lynn later married Robert (Bob) Blomquist and they were blessed with a 34-year happy marriage. Bob brought to the marriage his daughters Robin and Ginger. Their belief, love, faith, and hope in the Lord were what bonded them and became the foundation of their marriage. The friendships they formed mirrored their spirituality. Lynn moved to PebbleCreek when Bob retired and they enjoyed a plethora of activities a 55+ active community offers. From golf to cards to clubs, life was also full of joy during this time. Travel included trips to other continents and Lynn was able to experience Italy, where her family is from. She was very proud of her Italian ancestry.

Volunteerism for Lynn included the Kare Bears to offer comfort and support for seniors, Make-A-Wish photography, elementary classroom help for underserved children, Special Olympics, and more. Lynn also loved cooking and photography. She was talented in these areas and so much more.

Lynn passed away on July 17, 2024. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husbands, brothers Ralph and Phillip (Nancy), and many beloved friends. Lynn is survived by daughters Patricia Peck (Larry), Laura Dillon, and stepdaughters Robin Pronk (Jim), Ginger Townsend (Tim). Lynn’s grandchildren are Amanda, Kevin, Lauren (Matt), Jesse, and great-grandchild Peyton. Her nephew and niece are Mario and Marisa.

Services for Lynn took place at Robson Reserve for staff and friends who can’t get out easily, and on Sept. 1 at Christ Presbyterian Church in Goodyear where Lynn and Bob attended. A special praying over roses for Lynn and Bob was held at the church, and those roses will be scattered at two places she loved—Butterfly Beach, Santa Barbara, and Lake Geneva, Wis. This will honor her wishes. Lynn’s final resting place is already and eternally with God in heaven. Her remains will be interned with Bob’s at the Phoenix National Memorial Cemetery.

John Raymond Stergulz

John Raymond Stergulz, beloved husband of Ellen Stergulz, passed away on July 17, 2024. John was 80 years old.

Born in Princeton, Ill., in 1944, John received a bachelor’s degree from Monmouth College, a master’s degree from Illinois State University, and an Advanced Administration degree from the University of Illinois. He was a teacher, coach, and administrator in Urbana, Ill., from 1969-1981 before accepting the administration position at Kankakee School District #111. He retired from education in 2000.

John and Ellen moved to PebbleCreek in 2005 to Unit 31, where he was unit rep for several years. John became very active in the Men’s Golf Association, holding various offices within the organization. He was also very committed to the Elks Club and was past Exalted Ruler in both Kankakee and Raceway Elks Lodges.

John’s favorite place on Earth was wherever his family was or the Big Island of Hawaii. He said heaven was when he had both at the same time. He loved golf, eating desserts, and playing with his grandchildren. His perfect day was shooting in the 70s and then having cake and ice cream with his family.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Andrew Stergulz, and his brother David Stergulz. He is survived by Ellen, his wife of 53 years; his daughters Teri (Ryann) Roberts and Kim (Dan) Presland; and grandchildren JP and Brooke Roberts, and Nate and Noah Presland; and his brother Robert Stergulz.

The family will be establishing a one-time scholarship in John’s name for a student who plans to major in education after they graduate from Kankakee High School. The family welcomes additional donations to this scholarship. Please contact Ellen Stergulz if you are interested in contributing.

The family will hold a Celebration of Life for John on Sunday, Nov. 24 at 2 p.m. in the Tuscany Falls Ballroom. Please join the family to celebrate John’s life. All are welcome to attend. Donations to the scholarship would also be welcome that day.

Barbara “Barb” Sullivan

Barbara “Barb” Eileen Sullivan, age 78, of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away too soon on June 11, 2024, after recent surgeries. Barb was born in Chicago, raised in Roselle, Ill., and in 1970 headed west on vacation with a carload of girlfriends. She left her heart in San Francisco and stayed for over 30 years.

Barb excelled in business equipment sales, always leading the pack as a top producer. In retirement she fell in love with the PebbleCreek community and the vibrant life it offered. These years have been filled with great friends, fine wine, and an occasional terrific pickleball performance.

She is survived by her loving partner Dave Taylor, sister Kathleen (John) Tully, brother Terry Sullivan, sister-in-law Irene (Michael) Sullivan, many nieces and nephews, the Wisnes family, and her beloved dog Maggie.

Barb is preceded in death by her dear partner Stanley Wisnes, parents John and Tillie Sullivan, and brother Michael Sullivan.

A Celebration of Life is planned on her birthday Oct. 10 to honor and remember Barb and the impact she had on others.

Ned B. Grover

Ned was born in Highland Park, Mich., on Friday, Sept. 13, 1935, to Florence and Sidney Grover. He graduated from Cooley High School in Detroit, Mich., and attended Wayne State University as an undergrad. In 1958, Ned graduated from Illinois College of Optometry in Chicago, Ill., with degrees of Bachelor of Science in Optometry and Doctor of Optometry.

After graduation from Illinois College of Optometry, Ned joined the Air Force. He spent three years stationed as an Optometry Officer in the hospital at Randolph Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. While there, he met Dr. Richard Wilson and they became best friends.

After discharge, both men returned to Michigan: Dr. Wilson to Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Mich., to pursue a residency in Orthopedic Surgery, and Ned to a partnership with Dr. Larry Beecher.

Dr. Wilson was instrumental in introducing Ned to his future wife, Donna, then the head nurse on the Orthopedic/Neurosurgery Unit. They married on May 25, 1963.

In 1964, Ned and Donna welcomed twin sons to their family, Mark and Michael. He was a proud Dad! He was there to share in their joy when they married their college sweethearts, Mark to Victoria Thimm, and Michael to Lori Latowski. The birth of his grandchildren, Katherine Grover and Matthew Grover, made him feel so blessed.

Ned’s professional life flourished. He and Dr. Beecher owned their own contact lens laboratory, Custom Contact Lens Laboratory. Over the years, Ned led the industry in developing new technology by acting as consultant to other contact lens manufacturers, and participating in FDA studies resulting in approval of new contact lens products.

For three years, Ned served on an advisory board with the responsibility of selecting and instituting a Laser Center that would serve over 300 practicing optometrists in the state of Michigan. Another of Ned’s unique accomplishments was the development and writing of the first computerized record-keeping program for optometric practices. After 42 years in practice serving two to three generations of the same family, Ned retired in December 2000.

Upon retiring to Goodyear, Ariz., Ned had time to pursue his hobby of golf, read mystery novels, travel, and enjoy time with his family and many friends.

Helen Moretz Hohlstein

Helen Moretz Hohlstein, 91, of PebbleCreek Resort Community in Goodyear, Ariz., passed away surrounded by those who loved her on May 14, 2024, at Hospice of The Valley in Surprise, Ariz. A private service is scheduled for family only.

Helen L. Champion was born to Simon and Helen Champion on Sept. 20, 1932, in Harrisburg, Pa. She attended Shippensburg State Teachers College and began teaching following graduation. Helen married Lawrence A. Moretz on Nov. 9, 1956, where they raised their family in New Cumberland, Pa.

Helen was very active in PebbleCreek enjoying the amenities of bridge, golf, bocce ball, acting, and singing. She was also a member of ShowTime, a PebbleCreek acting group, for many years.

She is survived by her husband Walter Hohlstein; three daughters, Diane Roberts, Debbie Barbe, Laurie (Dan) Dilley; and six grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her first husband, Lawrence A. Moretz.

In place of flowers please direct memorial contributions to the Kare Bears House, 15383 W. Cheery Lynn Rd., Goodyear, AZ 85395.

Elizabeth McIntyre Gibson

Elizabeth McIntyre Gibson passed peacefully in her sleep on May 2, 2024. She is survived by her children Pamela Lynne Gibson Kopp, Margaret Gibson Revord, and Gregory Scott Gibson. “Gomps” was blessed with seven grandchildren: Warren Sylvester, Scott Sylvester, Michael Revord, Kate Revord, Luke Gibson, Ben Gibson, and Sam Gibson. She is also survived by her adoring cat Tigger and numerous furry grand- and great-grand pets.

Born June 1935, ne (nay) 1934, ne 1933 (birth certificate, passport, and driver’s license all conflict), she was always young at heart and never failed to disguise her age. We will never really know how old she was, but she would want to be remembered for her youthfulness to the end.

She was a 1951 graduate of Evanston High School in Illinois, and a 1955 graduate of Lawrence University, a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority.

She had many extraordinary talents. Quick-witted (and quick-tempered), she loved to banter politics (beware if you were not up on Fox News), was a former bridge master, Words-With-Friends-aholic, two-pack-a-day smoker (I don’t inhale …), an avid reader (sometimes multiple books in a week), a prolific and humorous writer, and travel consultant extraordinaire (she traveled to more than 100 countries). Many friends and family have benefited from trips arranged with her travel expertise—no one planned every detail like Liz. She launched many happy marriages with her spectacular honeymoons. She loved her friends (big plus if you are funny), shopping, traveling, and parties. She loved France and French food (the more béarnaise sauce the better). She loved always knowing she was right (a Gibson trait). She loved living in Arizona (that dry heat) and felt welcomed into the PebbleCreek community from day one—shocking her entire family when she announced she was a “Care Bear”?!

She also instilled a deep love of animals in all of her family, and our family pets included dogs, cats, hamsters, lizards, mice, and even a parrot.

She was not an expressive emoter, but those who knew her well felt her love. This love has been passed on to her entire extended family.

She leaves quite a legacy and will be loved, remembered, honored, and missed by her family and friends. The family intends to have a private remembrance to celebrate her life.

Grant Ragsdale

Grant Ayres Ragsdale was born in Denver, Colo., on Oct. 20, 1933, to Darryl and Olive (Gudger) Ragsdale. He passed peacefully in Goodyear, Ariz., on May 1, 2024. He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Joan Palmer Ragsdale, on Feb. 22, 2024. Grant lived in Wyoming, Colorado, Kansas, and most recently Arizona. Grant and Joan Ragsdale were married May 17, 1958. Together they raised two children, Carolyn and Kenneth, in the Kansas City area. He grew up with two sisters Jean (Wolvington) and Jo-Olive (Frakes).

He is survived by their son Ken Ragsdale and his wife, Teri; grandson, Albert Ragsdale; and sister-in-law, Jane Palmer Way of Sun City, Ariz.; as well as cousins, nieces, nephews, and many, many friends. He is preceded by his parents; his daughter, Carolyn Ragsdale; and his sisters.

Grant was a hardworking, quick thinking younger brother of two sisters who kept him in line as they all grew up in Denver. Scouting, newspaper delivery, angora rabbit raising, cattle ranch hand, Korean war veteran, self-taught engineer and crafty entrepreneur, host to international soldiers, community volunteer, and cheerful good friend all framed his life as a kind and loving husband to Joan.

While in Kansas City, Joan and Grant were particularly active in People to People International. Later they traveled the world and in some instances re-connected with People to People couples they had hosted in the United States.

Grant and Joan moved to PebbleCreek in 1995 as snowbirds but it didn’t take long for them to become full time residents. Carolyn joined them around 2007. They were active in a variety of groups and recently could be found at one of the pools in the late afternoon just about any day of the year. They formed close bonds with their neighbors and enjoyed getting together for special occasions, or no occasion at all.

Grant was a lifelong churchgoer. In Arizona he was active at The Church at Litchfield Park. At the time of his passing, he and Joan were both Deacons Emeritus.

His last years were spent enjoying many friends in PebbleCreek and family including grandson Albert. He will be missed by his family and many friends in Arizona and across the county.

Memorial remembrances are suggested to the church or Hospice of the Valley.

Lester Minsuk

Lester Morris Minsuk died peacefully on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, with his three daughters, Sharon, Susan, and Michele, and wife, Phyllis, by his side. Les lived a good life and impacted many people during his life, having spent many years in management and as an executive career coach.

Born Dec. 2, 1934, in Brooklyn, N.Y., he was educated in New York City. After graduating from Stuyvesant High School and Cooper Union College with a degree in Chemical Engineering in 1957, he began his career in the cryogenics, chemical, and plastics industries, progressing from engineer to project management to general management. Les enjoyed his early career with Air Products, Scientific Design, and Conoco and then as a Rhone Poulenc Division General Manager and Gulf Oil/Millmaster-Onyx Chemicals Group VP.

During that time, he completed his MBA from City College, Baruch School, married Fran Yaffe in 1958, and had three daughters. They divorced in 1980.

In 1983, he married Phyllis Stein and from 1986 to 1995 they were partners in a successful career consulting practice in Princeton, N.J: Minsuk, Macklin, Stein & Associates. He followed this as an executive search consultant and executive career coach, creating and delivering training seminars for major corporations.

Les retired in 2005 and he and Phyllis moved from New Jersey to PebbleCreek in Goodyear, Ariz. He facilitated a group for senior men who wanted to discuss issues of the day and the Great Decisions Seminar. He supported several initiatives in LifeLong Learning at PC, did fundraising for Ronald McDonald House, and volunteered for the PC Democratic Club and the Democratic Regional Headquarters.

He enjoyed road trips and cruises, playing golf and Mah Jongg, reading (especially history) hiking, bridge, politics, and book clubs. He was fortunate to be able to donate to opera, ballet, theater, and symphony organizations in New Jersey and Arizona and to attend many seasons of live performances.

Les is survived by his children—Sharon Minsuk, Susan Minsuk, and Kathy Blackwell, Michele Minsuk and Rachid Habibi, Lee and Jenn Stein, Michael and Marie Stein, as well as six grandchildren—Alex Stein, Nate Stein, Alyssa Stein, Rachel Stein, Kenza Habibi, and Sidra Habibi. He is predeceased by his parents (Meyer and Hilda Minsuk), brother (Bernard) and sister (Rosalind).

To the world, you might be just one person, but to one person you just might be the world.

Richard (Rick) Lewis Miller

Kare Bears respectfully announces the passing of Richard (Rick) Lewis Miller on April 26, 2024, at the age of 83. Rick worked for many years as an engineer in Silicon Valley, and then had his own machine shop for five years before retirement.

Rick and his wife, Lee, moved to PebbleCreek in December of 1997. Rick loved to golf, and he was very active with the Sandbaggers. He and Lee were also faithful and active members of The Church at Litchfield Park for many years.

Along with Lee, his wife of 47 years, Rick is survived by his two sons, Michael and Marcus, and grandchildren, Lindsey and Colby. If you wish to make a donation in Rick’s memory, the family suggests you make it to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1999, Memphis, TN, 38101.

A Celebration of Life for Rick will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 8, at The Church at Litchfield Park, 300 N. Old Litchfield Road. All are welcome to attend.

Donald Wyman

Donald Lloyd Wyman born June 25, 1931, in Coldwater (now Goodyear), Ariz., to Lou and Erma Wyman. Don lived in various Arizona communities until the age of 14 when Don’s asthma forced the family to move to Vancouver, Wash. The first three years of school Don attended Young Community School, in Young, Ariz., where his mother taught high school English. For a number of years the family lived on Ash Street in Tempe where his mother taught school and his father was superintendent of a grapefruit cannery. Don best remembered those years of spending summer days at Tempe Town Beach and going to the nickel movies on Saturday at the old theatre on Mill Ave.

Don graduated from Springfield, Ore., High School in 1951, attended Oregon State University for two years, and entered the United States Army in 1953. After his discharge, he resumed his studies at OSU and graduated with degrees in Business Management and Textile & Designs. He started his work career with Lipman Wolfe in Corvallis, Ore., and eventually became regional menswear manager in Portland.

Throughout his lifetime, Don was an active softball player and played on many championship teams in the Northwest. He also participated in several National Tennis Tournaments, playing doubles. After moving to PebbleCreek in 1997, Don was one of the founders of the PebbleCreek Softball Association.

In 1954, Don and Jean Smith were married in Corvallis, Ore., and became the parents of four wonderful children. For several years, the Wyman Family lived in Anchorage, Alaska. Cecelia Ray and Don were married in 1977, and during that marriage became the grandparents to 10 great grandkids. In 2003, Don married his next door neighbor at PebbleCreek, Linda Vanderheyden. Seven beautiful great-granddaughters and one great-grandson, and two Vanderheyden grandchildren blessed their marriage. They became avid Arizona sports fans and cherished their Cardinal season tickets as well as going to the 2001 Diamondback World Series games, Coyotes games, and were especially big Suns rooters. Golf became Don’s number No. 1 hobby with gardening coming in No. 2.

Don’s parents and wife Cecelia Ray predeceased him. His survivors include wife Linda; the mother of his children Jean Stamper; son Michael (Barbara) Wyman; daughters Linda A. Wyman, Lisa (Rick) Hill, Carol Walker; stepdaughter Leigh Ann Vanderheyden; stepson Douglas (Kelly) Vanderheyden; 12 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

Memorial service and burial will be at a later date in Corvallis. In Don’s memory, memorials may be given to Hospice of the West and The Church at Litchfield Park.

Carole Garman Escajeda

Kare Bears respectfully announces the passing of Carole Garman Escajeda, Unit 2, who passed away, Tuesday, April 9. Carole was 87 years old.

Carole retired from GE/Martin Marietta/Lockheed Martin as Head of Technical Publications. She moved to PebbleCreek in 1998 and was active in T.T.T. Chapter Q, ParTee Dolls Golf Group, and Showtime Productions. She also played mah jongg, softball, and belonged to a book club.

Carole was preceded in death by her husband of 38 years, Luis J. Escajeda, and by Arthur Walker. She is survived by family members Beverly White, Christopher Walker, Yvonne Fox, Annette Koziol, and Karina Escajeda.

There will be a private burial service for Carole in Phoenixville, Pa.

Donations in Carole’s name may be sent to the Arizona Humane Society, 1521 W. Dobbins Road, Phoenix, AZ 85041.

Rosalie Marie Pyle

Rosalie Marie Pyle, 86, peacefully passed away with family members by her side on April 8, 2024, in Surprise (Phoenix), Ariz., following a sudden illness March 29.

Rosalie is survived by her brother, Michael M. Hajostek (Moorhead, Minn.); her sister, Lillian R. Jorgensen, passed away in 1990.

Although Rosalie had no children, she was very fond of her nine nieces and nephews: Larry Jorgensen, Michael Jorgensen, Deborah Cowan, Mary Jo Buschko, Michael (Buck) Hajostek, John Hajostek, Jeffrey Jorgensen, Susan Sornsin, and Nancy Hajostek … in addition to many grand-nieces and nephews.

Rosalie was born Dec. 14, 1937. She was a graduate in Public Administration from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She held various professional administration positions during her career, beginning with St. Rose’s Home for Girls (Milwaukee, Wis.), followed by The Children’s Home (Winston-Salem, N.C.), and finally her career culminated as the Executive Director of the Tulsa Boys Home in Oklahoma.

Rosalie survived two husbands, and later in life she befriended a wonderful man, Jack Hartung (Tulsa), with whom she enjoyed many years in a long-distance sweetheart friendship. She was very saddened by his passing during the summer of 2023.

Rosalie loved to travel the world. She visited more than 80 countries on all seven continents, and enjoyed at least 75 cruises (there were so many she lost count!). Her last cruise was to the Bahamas only a few weeks prior to her passing.

In addition to her love of travel, Rosalie loved animals, particularly dogs. She rescued several dogs over the years.

Rosalie resided in PebbleCreek for 12 years and served as the Unit 53 Representative for many years. She was a member of PC’s “The Lunch Bunch,” was in the PC Wii Bowling League, was a season ticket holder to various theaters and symphony, and enjoyed PC dances, playing bridge, dining out with her favorite people, book clubs, and pool time with friends.

Rosalie will be missed by her family and the countless friends she made through the years. May she enjoy eternal rest in the peace of God.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her memory to one of Rosalie’s favorite animal charities, Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah.

Jack Wabschall

Jack Wabschall passed away at his home on April 5, 2024. Jack was a long-term resident of PebbleCreek. He was an active participant in many of the activities in PebbleCreek, including Captain of the Bunker Busters Golf Group, Captain of the Bocce Team, and organizer of the Cribbage Group. Jack was married to his wife, Patti, and PebbleCreek was a very special place for both of them since 2002.

Memorial service will be at St. John Vianney on Friday, May 24 at 2 p.m. A Celebration of Life will follow the service at Palm Valley Golf Club. Charitable donations in Jack’s memory can be made to Kare Bears at 15383 W. Cheery Lynn Road, Goodyear, AZ 85395 or the American Heart Association.

 

 

 

Edward Springer

Edward “Eddie” Springer of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away March 30, 2024, at the age of 81. He was born Jan. 17, 1943, in Latrobe, Pa., to the late Edward and Laura Springer. He was also preceded in death by his wife of 49 years, Carole Springer. He is survived by his partner Phyllis Thompson, daughter Diane (Steve) Sutton, sister Shirley Gallagher, brother Robert Springer, and grandchildren Kylie Sutton and Brett Sutton. Eddie was a long-time member of the PebbleCreek Senior Softball Association. If you’d like to make a donation in his honor, please email [email protected].

Interment will be held at 1 p.m., April 10, 2024, at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona.

 

William E. (Bill) Cox

William E. (Bill) Cox passed away after complications of surgery on March 27, 2024. He is survived by his wife, Susan, cousins, nephews, and nieces. Bill was born in St. Louis, Mo., and grew up in San Diego, Calif.; the Philippines; Cherry Hill, N.J.; and Philadelphia, Pa. He moved to Virginia, living in Arlington and Reston, until moving to PebbleCreek in 2012. He was a software developer.

Bill loved music—listening, collecting albums and CDs, and assembling high fidelity systems. Most of all, Bill loved to learn new things and had a wide range of interests and hobbies. He was a creative chef, especially authentic Mexican, Chinese, and Thai cuisines. He spent many happy times at the beach, especially camping. He was good at both interior and landscape design. He was an Eagle Scout. He had a broad knowledge of history and loved sharing what he’d learned. He could pretty much fix anything that needed fixing.

Bill remained cheerful and optimistic despite physical challenges over the years.

No service is planned.

Reverend Rodney Lee A Pruss

The Reverend Rodney Lee A Pruss, 82, passed away on March 16, 2024. He was born June 11, 1941, the last of 10 sons of Albert and Bessie (Tresnak) Pruss.

Father Rod attended schools in Dodge, North Bend, and graduated from Shelby High School in 1959. He graduated from Creighton with a BSBA in 1963 and from St. Thomas Seminary in June 1969. He was ordained in Fremont, Nebraska’s St. Patrick Church on June 5, 1969, and celebrated his first Mass in conjunction with his parents’ 50th anniversary on June 7, in Fremont. He served parishes in Grand Island and North Platte for four years prior to entering the Air Force on July 13, 1973. Father Rod retired as a Lieutenant Colonel from the Air Force on Sept. 30, 1993 having served 10 assignments in the United States Air Force including wonderful places such as Japan, Turkey, Germany, and five bases stateside. After retirement he was pastor of Our Lady of Lourdes in Ravenna, Neb., for 12 years. Upon retirement from active ministry, he moved to Goodyear, Ariz., and assisted at St. Thomas Aquinas in Avondale from 2006 to present.

Survivors include multiple nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers: Albert, Francis, James, Emil, Edward, Richard, Leonard, Eugene, and Theodore.

His favorite saying: “Ordained after Latin went out and hope to die before it comes back!”

William R. Smith

William Reuel Smith, 83, passed away at his home in Goodyear, Ariz., on March 13, 2024. Bill was born in Huntington, W.V., son of Reuel Smith and Kathleen Rios. Bill was an only child and is survived by his wife, Pam Smith; his daughters, Dina Michael Lugger and Sabrina Smith; and his granddaughter, Kathleen Michael.

Bill and his wife Pam moved to PebbleCreek in 2007 and Bill was instrumental in starting the first PebbleCreek Corvette Group, which continues to grow.

Bill served in two branches of military service, the United States Air Force and the Marines. He had a hunger for adventure, and tried to grasp onto every experience and maximize every opportunity. His spirit of exploration knew no bounds. His passion for the outdoors kept him young. He loved to hunt and fish. He loved to ride horses in the backcountry, ski the mountains, and explore the depths of the ocean floor. Bill enjoyed the game of golf and the competition of racing. He was passionate about all sports, and enjoyed watching games and cheering on his favorite teams.

Bill learned to fly airplanes at a very early age, hearing his mother say: “Billy Reuel, don’t go too high and don’t fly too fast.” With a wink and smile he would do just the opposite. He had a passion for cars, boats, motorcycles, and anything on wheels.

Bill had a successful career in real estate, living in Lake Tahoe for several years. He owned a Big O Tire store, managed a grocery store, and retired as a Senior Salesman after 20 years with General Electric Plastics. Bill’s only motto in life was to “Live.” He had a bet with his best friend in Huntington that “he who dies with the most toys wins.” A bet he knew he could never lose.

Bill survived countless surgeries and operations during his lifetime. I often heard him repeat the phrase, “I defied death one more time.” As a child he would tell his mom, “My heart says No, but my feet just GO!”

His adventurous life took a toll on his body and he fought hard to keep moving, but in the end, his feet said No.

He will be missed by his family and friends, and his wife Pam of 40 years, but he will never be forgotten.

Richard (Rick) Emil Chalupnik

Richard (Rick) Emil Chalupnik, 85, a 27-year resident of PebbleCreek, died on March 10, 2024. Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Emil and Isabelle, and is survived by his beautiful wife of 62 years, Carolyn (Kiki); their son, Rick (Sue) Chalupnik and children Kali and Trevor; their daughter, Janet (Mike) Pantazis and children Tyler and Travis; brother Ron (Joan) Chalupnik and sister Shirley Zakavec.

Rick was born in Oak Park, Ill., in 1938 and moved to Stratford, Mo., at 14. He attended Stratford High School before joining the Navy, where he was stationed in Hawaii at Pearl Harbor in 1956.

He then worked a successful 30-year career at International Business Machines (IBM), earning five of the coveted IBM “Means Service” awards. Rick was a volunteer EMT and Firefighter for the Long Grove, Ill., Fire Department for 13 years.

Rick met the love of his life, Kiki, in 1959 at Salem Evangelical Free Church in Chicago, Ill. They were married on Nov. 25, 1961. Their son Rick was born in 1968 and daughter Janet was born in 1971. Rick was a dedicated, loving husband and father who would stop at nothing to care for his wife and children.

Rick was an amazing “Papa” to his four grandchildren: Kali, Tyler, Trevor, and Travis, and he prayed constantly for his family.

Rick and Kiki invested in building friendships and served in the Church together over their 62 years of marriage. They were members of the Evangelical Free Church in Des Plaines, Ill., for 35 years (1961-1996). In 1996, they became some of the original members of Compass Church, Goodyear, Ariz., and served together at Compass for 27 years. He was faithful and consistent in helping family and friends know and love Jesus. Rick unexpectedly passed away in his home on a night when their LIFE group was already there for dinner.

Though he was a man who was very serious about his faith in Jesus, he rarely took himself all that seriously. Often the life of the party, Rick would always keep people laughing through telling jokes. He loved boating, fishing, watching western movies, sitting in the warm Arizona sun, and mostly, spending time with family and friends.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on April 19, 3 p.m., at Compass Church: 16060 W. Van Buren Street Goodyear, AZ 85338.

Joan Ragsdale

Joan Ragsdale was born in Kansas City, Mo., on March 15, 1935, to Louis and Mabel Palmer. She passed peacefully in Goodyear, Ariz., on Feb. 22, 2024. She lived in Colorado, Kansas, and most recently Arizona. She had a short stint in California in 1948 where she would sometimes walk to school with Elizabeth Taylor. She married Grant Ragsdale on May 17, 1958 (together for 65 years) and raised two children, Kenneth Ragsdale and Carolyn Ragsdale, in the Kansas City area. She grew up with two little sisters Jane (Way) and Joyce (Wright), who filled her life with lots of fun and joy.

She is survived by her husband, Grant Ayres Ragsdale; her son Kenneth Ayres Ragsdale and his wife, Teri Bellamy Ragsdale; grandson, Albert Ragsdale; and her sister, Jane Palmer Way; as well as cousins, nieces, and nephews and many, many friends. She is preceded by her parents; her daughter, Carolyn Joan Ragsdale (1966-2020); and her sister, Joyce Palmer Wright (1943-2009).

She was a longtime hotel and restaurant management professional holding a HRM degree from the University of Denver where she was an active member and alumni of the Pi Beta Phi Fraternity for Women. She started in the business working as a car hop in the 1950s in her parents’ restaurant. She went on to manage up to 13 successful cafeterias at the same time throughout the Kansas City area. While in greater Kansas City, Joan and Grant were particularly active in People to People International. She finally earned a nice retirement in the Goodyear, Ariz., community of PebbleCreek where she volunteered extensively. She and Grant traveled all over the world.

Joan was a lifelong friend and churchgoer with connections in Kansas City to Roanoke Presbyterian Church, Old Mission United Methodist Church, and Village Presbyterian Church. In Arizona she was active at The Church at Litchfield Park. At the time of her passing she and Grant were both Deacons Emeritus.

Her last years were spent enjoying many friends and family including grandson, Albert. She will be missed by her family and many friends in Arizona and across the country.

A Celebration of Life will be held at The Church at Litchfield Park, 300 North Old Litchfield Road, Litchfield Park, AZ 85340 on March 19, 2024, at noon. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the church or Hospice of the Valley.

Jan McGee

Jan McGee, Unit 62B, died suddenly very early on Wednesday, Feb. 14 with her husband Greg by her side. She was born March 31, 1954, in Wichita, Kan., to Carmelita and Eugene Hawk. Jan graduated from Bishop Carroll High School in 1972 and moved to Dallas, Texas. She worked in the finance and home-building industry until she retired in 2016. Jan married Greg McGee on June 4, 1999.

Jan and Greg moved to Goodyear, Ariz., in 2018. Jan loved playing cards, shopping with friends, gardening, caring for dogs, golfing with Greg, and enjoying a glass of fine wine. Jan is preceded in death by her parents Eugene and Carmelita, her stepfather Earl Sayler, her sister Teri Hawk, brother Kim Hawk, niece Jessie Bruggeman, and nephew Josh Bruggeman. She is survived by her husband Greg; stepsons Justin & Katie, Patrick & Katie, and Stuart & Erica; sisters Kit Bruggeman (Dave), Lisa Sayler, and Pam Sayler (Bill); brothers Mike Hawk (Linda) and Gene Hawk; nieces Kitty and Katie; nephews Jake, Joel, David, Ryan, and Matt; and 12 grandchildren, Alexis, Evelyn and Imogene (Justin), Ellie, Emma, Nora, Daisy, and Luke (Patrick), and Elijah, Jude, Ezra, and Jeptha (Stuart).

Jan loved dogs; her fur babies Tootsie, Raleigh, Randi, Abbey, Suzie, Barney, and Maggie were waiting for her on Heaven’s rainbow bridge. Jan did not want a funeral or memorial. Instead of flowers, please donate to a local food pantry or a local animal rescue group and lift your glass to toast farewell to Jan for a life well lived.

Clinton C. Martell

Clinton C. Martell, age 76, of Goodyear, Ariz., and Clearwater, Minn., passed away unexpectedly on Feb. 13, 2024. Born in Wishek, N.D., to Paul and Marie (Reich) Martell, Clint spent his youth in this small German community until joining the National Guard in 1966. Here he served in the Military Police and as a radio operator until he was honorably discharged in 1971. Upon the recent discovery of his military documents, we learned he was commended as a sharpshooter, a detail he never revealed to us. This is characteristic of Clint; humble and not one to boast about his accomplishments.

In 1968, Clint married Diana Hoffman, the love of his life. The timing of Clint’s passing indicates he was eager to be reunited with his dear Valentine. Clint and Diana spent the majority of their lives in Mounds View, Minn. Clint worked for most of his career as the Body Shop Manager at Barnett Chrysler. Fishing, restoring cars, attending his children’s events, and tinkering were a few of his favorite activities.

In retirement, Clint continued to tinker at their home in Goodyear. Here he also enjoyed golfing and gardening. He and Diana loved to travel, and spent time in each of the 50 states as well as Europe. They were avid fans of their grandchildren, traveling whenever possible to their sporting events. Following Diana’s passing, Clint became quite an accomplished chef, trying new recipes and recreating hers.

A man of strong faith, incredible integrity, and admirable work ethic, Clint had a kind, gentle heart and was loved by all. He took immense interest in everyone he encountered, made genuine connections with friends and strangers alike, and was eager to engage in conversation with one and all, whether they had time for it or not.

Clint is survived by his children, Brad and Heather (Alan) Woldt; grandchildren, Paige (Jack) Leach and Tommy; sisters, Idella (Garland) Dockter, Paulette (Darrell) Bittner, and Debbie (Fred) Schauer; brother and sister-in-law, Ron and Sandy Hoffman. He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved Diana, and his big brother Vern.

A memorial service at Trinity Lutheran Church in Litchfield Park, Ariz., will be held on March 15, 2024, at 11 a.m. with lunch to follow. Memorials in lieu of flowers preferred to his church, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, or a charity of choice.

Daniel Phelka

Daniel “Dan” E. Phelka of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away Feb. 2, 2024, at the age of 79. He was born April 10, 1944, in Detroit, Mich., to the late Edward W. and Elsie K. Phelka. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Kathleen Phelka; sons Edward (Amanda) Phelka and Andrew (Gillian) Phelka; and four grandchildren: Daniel John, Katherine, Annika (Sean) Udrys, and Nora Udrys.

Dan grew up in Detroit, Mich. He graduated from Denby High School and went on to graduate from GMI (now Kettering) and University of Michigan.

Dan was a loving husband and father whose proudest accomplishment was his family. He married the love of his life on May 24, 1968, and together they raised their sons. He was known for telling jokes, playing in the PebbleCreek softball league, and helping others through the PebbleCreek computer club. He enjoyed listening to classical music and had an amazing memory for music facts, dates, and names. He also managed to visit all 50 states, went on several cruises, and explored many other countries. He made friends wherever he went.

Dan’s passing has left a wound on many hearts. His thoughtful nature and gentle touch will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

There will be a memorial service to be announced at a later date.

Please leave condolences at thompsonfuneralchapel.com/obituaries/daniel-e-phelka.

Joan Vera Smith

Joan Vera Smith, 88, of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away on Feb. 1, 2024. She was born on Dec. 7, 1935 in Tekamah, Neb. Joan was a very kind person with a huge heart for all animals. Joan is predeceased by her parents Henry and Vera Hall.

She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Ronald L. Smith; her children Marlin C. Smith and his wife Rosanne Smith, Arlin D. Smith and his wife Mary A. Smith, and Rhonda M. Calvert and her husband Jono Calvert; and grandchildren Shawn Smith and Aaron Smith.

Joan graduated high school in Arlington, Neb., in 1954. She married Ron in 1961 and they moved to Goodyear in 1964. She was a homemaker for many years, and a bank teller for Bank of America until her retirement. They moved to the PebbleCreek Resort Community in 1993. She was very active in church, and loved to usher at The Church at Litchfield Park. She enjoyed many activities, including square dancing and calling, leading a clogging group, singing in groups, and performing in theater shows for many years.

A memorial service to honor Joan will be held at The Church at Litchfield Park on Saturday, March 9 at 11 a.m., 300 North Old Litchfield Road, Litchfield Park, AZ 85340.

Joe Scalzo

Joe passed away peacefully on Jan. 30, 2024, after a full and joyous life. He is survived by his wife, Rayma Scalzo, Eric Cavanagh (son), Melissa Lohmann (daughter), and four grandchildren. Joe was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., on Sept. 22,1940. He received his B.A. from Long Island University and his Doctor of Dental Surgery from New York College of Dentistry. Soon after graduation he was drafted into the Army and served as a Captain at the 95th Evacuation Hospital during the Vietnam War. He was honored to receive the Bronze Star Medal for his meritorious service.

When he returned home, he became a Prison Dentist for the Arizona Department of Corrections and worked his way up to the Director of Maricopa County Correctional Health services. He wasn’t ready for retirement and so he took a job as a Court Expert/Representative for the U.S. District Court in the Perez vs Cate lawsuit in California.

Joe and Rayma were married in 1990 and moved to PebbleCreek in 1995. In PebbleCreek, Joe enjoyed golf, including making golf clubs. After a few years of golf, Joe developed an interest in target shooting. He became a gun collector and was a member of the PebbleCreek Gun Club. He also was a terrific support for Rayma, who founded Kare Bears.

Donations in Joe’s memory can be sent to Kare Bears at 15383 W. Cheery Lynn Road, Goodyear, AZ 85395. Condolences to Rayma and the family may be sent to her at Robson Reserve, 15833 W. Clubhouse Drive, #254, Goodyear, AZ 85395.

Janice Sandberg

Janice L. (Valentine) Sandberg, 88, formerly of Wausau, Wis., passed away on Friday, Jan. 26, 2024, at The Heritage in Appleton, Wis.

She was born on March 13, 1935, to the late Gerald and Violet (Nelson) Valentine in Suring, Wis., where she grew up with her brother Jack and sister Judy. Janice spent summers of her teen years as a lifeguard at Kelly Lake and was a drum majorette for the Suring High School band. In the summer of 1954, before returning to college at UW-La Crosse, she fell in love with her childhood friend, John Sandberg. They parted briefly while she finished college and he served in the Army, but their love letters during that time sealed their bond and live on to this day. They married in Suring on June 8, 1957.

Education was always Janice’s passion. She married an educator and was a teacher herself, first in elementary education and physical education with the Wausau School District and Newman High School. She pursued her love of learning and books by returning to UW-La Crosse in 1983 where she earned a master’s degree in library science, always intending to use her new skills in a school setting. She served as the librarian at Tomahawk High School, then D.C. Everest High School until her retirement in 1997. Janice instilled the importance of education in her five children and nine grandchildren and generously established a college fund for each one. A lifetime learner, she continued to read voraciously until her death.

Janice was a determined career woman, and a devoted wife and mother. She loved to travel, and she and John managed many road trips across the country with five children, dogs, a station wagon, and a pop-up camper in tow. In later years, she traveled to many more far away destinations, such as China, New Zealand, Sweden, Netherlands, Ireland, and France. She was always on the go, independent and eager to learn new things.

Establishing a home in PebbleCreek in the early 2000s, Janice was involved in many activities. She belonged to a women’s golf group that golfed Tuesdays and Thursdays and even made a hole-in-one during one of her games. She participated in LifeLong Learning, was a member of the Democratic Club, and belonged to a book club at the Tuscany Falls clubhouse. Janice attended the Phoenix Symphony monthly and enjoyed the “out to dinner” experience after each performance. She also attended the Artist Series and was a member of the Cinema Club. Her many friends will miss hearing from her.

Janice is survived by her children, John (Verna) Sandberg, Mary Sandberg (Andy Tautges), Joel (Karon) Sandberg, Brian (Kris) Sandberg, and Kerry Sandberg Arndt; grandchildren, Jamie Sandberg, Kathy McCarthy, Kristy McCarthy (Cris Choquet), Brandon Tautges, Derek Sandberg (Mallory McShane), Claire (Nash) Sanderson, Anna Sandberg, Ryan (Rachel) Arndt, and Ross (Teona) Arndt; a great-grandchild, Barrett; her siblings Jack (Darlene) Valentine, and Judy (Ted) Knapp; as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends. She is preceded in death by her husband, John Sandberg; and parents, Violet and Gerald Valentine. A small, private family service was held on Jan. 29. An interment and Celebration of Life with her many grandchildren and friends will be held at a later date in Wausau.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in her name to your favorite school or school district foundation.

Paul S. Daly

Paul S. Daly of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away Jan. 10, 2024, two days after celebrating his 90th birthday and he and Ellie’s 14th wedding anniversary.

He was born Jan. 8, 1934, to Matthew and Alice Daly of Belmont, Mass. He was preceded in death by his first wife Maureen of 51 years and youngest daughter Maureen, and siblings Matthew, Richard, Margaret, and Peter.

Paul is survived by his wife Elinor; his sister Elizabeth; his four children Judy, Paul Jr., Susan, and John; and his stepchildren Randy and Diana. Paul also leaves behind 10 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.

In 1953, after completing two years of study at Northwestern University, he entered the Navy as a Naval Aviation Cadet and embarked on a 26-year career as a Naval Aviator. He amassed over 3,000 flight hours and 500 carrier landings. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Engineering Science from the Naval Postgraduate School and a MBA from the University of West Florida.

During his 26-year career, Captain Daly served in both the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets and flew from six different aircraft carriers, and served two tours of duty in Vietnam. He was Air Officer aboard USS Ticonderoga (CV-14) during her final cruise and decommission and Executive Officer aboard USS Okinawa (LPH-3) during the evacuations of Cambodia and Saigon.

Captain Daly’s shore tours were devoted primarily to aviation education and training with two assignments to the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, Calif., a two-year tour as an instructor in the advanced training command, and a most rewarding assignment as the Commanding Officer, Training Squadron Three, NAS Whiting Field.

In Captain Daly’s final tour at the Pentagon on the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations he was responsible for the development and procurement of Naval Aviation training programs and equipment. He initiated the development of what eventually became the T-45 Goshawk and was instrumental in the introduction of full-flight simulators into Naval Aviation training programs.

Upon his retirement in 1979, Captain Daly joined Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Fla., as the Dean of the College of Aviation Technology. In 1981 Captain Daly became Chancellor of ERAU’s western campus in Prescott, Ariz., a position he held until his retirement in 1995. Captain Daly was later elected to two terms as the Mayor of the City of Prescott.

Paul served the citizens of Arizona in a number of volunteer efforts. He was President of the Independent Colleges and Universities of Arizona; Chairman of the Arizona Affiliate of the American Heart Association; Chairman of the South Mountain High School Aviation Program Advisory Board, and a member of the Governor’s Regional Airport Advisory Board.

In June of 2013, Paul and Ellie sold their homes in Prescott and Scottsdale and moved to Robson’s PebbleCreek Resort in Goodyear and have never looked back.

Paul was a lover of dogs with his Yorkshire Terrier, Maggie, stealing his heart. He was an avid golfer and snow skier, and he loved the games of bocce, poker, and Monday and Wednesday bridge. He was a member of the PebbleCreek Republican Club, Irish American Club, Wine Club, and Shalom Club. He and his wife Ellie traveled extensively, with Cancun being his favorite destination.

He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and all who came to know him. He was truly a special man.

Memorials may be made to the PebbleCreek Pet Companions Club in care of James Ellison.

A Celebration of Paul’s life will be held March 3 at 3 p.m. in the Chianti Room of the Tuscany Falls Clubhouse.

Neil Edmond Saling Jr.

Neil Edmond Saling Jr., who lived in Unit 17 in PebbleCreek, passed away Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023 from kidney failure. He was born Feb. 4, 1936, in Eugene, Oregon. He is survived by his wife, Lucy Sinnard Saling. They have been married 66 years and have lived in PebbleCreek since 2003. He has four grandchildren, Samantha, Jeffrey, Emily, and Erik. He is survived by his two sons, Michael Saling (wife Molly) and Mark Saling (wife Brenda); a daughter, Meghan Saling; a sister, Jane Saling Schaeffer (husband Jim); and a brother, Robert Saling (wife Cindy). Neil will be buried in Willamette National Cemetery.

Neil traveled with his parents during the years before and during WWII, returning to Corvallis, Ore., where he attended Corvallis High School and Oregon State College. He was active in campus activities at OSC and was a member of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity. Neil married his high school sweetheart in January 1958. He graduated from OSC in June 1958 with a B.S. in Civil Engineering. He immediately entered the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as a Regular Army Second Lieutenant and, after Airborne training, was posted to Germany. His career in the U.S. Army spanned 30 years, and he retired in 1988 with the rank of Colonel. His Army career included four tours overseas to include eight years in Germany and two tours to Southeast Asia. He always maintained that his favorite duty was as the Corps District Engineer for the State of Alaska.

Upon leaving the Army, Neil became a Construction Manager for the Portland Metropolitan Service District, acting as the Director of the Oregon Convention Center Project during the construction phase. Upon leaving Metro, Neil worked briefly for Hoffman Construction before retiring to assist his wife in her antiques business. Among Neil’s accomplishments were his earning a M.S. in engineering from Purdue University and an M.A. in Military Science from the Army Command and Staff College. He was a registered Professional Engineer.

In PebbleCreek Neil utilized his engineering background and was instrumental in building a fence across the wash area in Unit 17 that is keeping flood waters from causing damage to homes and also keeping trespassers from entering our community. Neil and Lucy were daily participants at the Eagle’s Nest pool and workout center, enjoying the amenities here in PebbleCreek.

Neil also was involved in Master Track and Field where he entered a rating of Senior All-American in the discus throw for more than 30 consecutive years and was consistently among the top performers nationally in his age group.

Kare Bears of PebbleCreek extend our deepest sympathy to Lucy and her family.

Nancy A. Charron Graham

Nancy A. Charron Graham of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away Dec. 4, 2023, at the age of 85. She was born May 31, 1938, in Montague, Mass., to the late Joseph and Winifred (Moriarty) Charron. She was preceded in death by her husband Edward C Graham and stepson Patrick Graham.

Nancy is survived by her brother Joseph (Marie) R Charron, III of Greenfield, Mass.; nephew Jeffrey Charron of Greenfield, Mass.; niece Suzanne Hale of Natick, Mass.; stepson Kevin (Lisa) Graham of Goodyear, Ariz.; stepson Edward (Maureen) of Metuchen, N.J. and her stepgrandchildren Sarah and Jessica of Arizona and Erin, Deirdre, Joseph great-stepgrandson James of the northeast, Jake Hale of Leyden, Mass., Sawyer Hale of Northfield, Mass., Allie Charron Campos of Plymouth, Mass., and Lindsey Charron of Littleton, N.H. She also leaves behind many cousins and her many friends in Massachusetts, Georgia, and Arizona.

Nancy was born and raised in Greenfield, Mass. She attended Holy Trinity School and graduated in 1956 from Greenfield High School. She attended Merrimack College in Andover, Mass., and then attended and graduated from the Providence Hospital School of Nursing in 1961. Nancy worked as an RN at Farren Memorial Hospital in Montague City, Mass., but spent most of her nursing career in the operating room. She worked at Franklin Medical Center in Greenfield, Mass., Norwood Hospital in Norwood, Mass., and Dekalb Medical Center in Decatur, Ga.

Nancy married Ed Graham in Northampton, Mass., on Nov. 15, 1980. They lived in Millis and Medfield, Mass., and Lilburn, Ga. They moved to Goodyear, Ariz., in 2004. Nancy enjoyed watching the New England Patriots play and game shows (especially Jeopardy and Family Feud). She also enjoyed playing cards, reading, and spending time with her family. Her favorite music was anything she could dance cheek-to-cheek to with Ed. Nancy and Ed enjoyed traveling and went on cruises around the world. She was a sweet soul whose proudest achievements were her family and being a nurse. She was a member of the American Association of Registered Nurses. She was also very social within PebbleCreek, actively participating in bridge groups, Hand & Foot, and golf groups.

Nancy had a kind heart and everybody who knew her loved her in return. She was known to be exceptionally organized, which helped her in her nursing career. Her passing leaves her family broken-hearted, but we know she is together with Ed, dancing cheek-to-cheek again.

Nancy requested there be no flowers for her service. Instead, she would like donations to be made to Infinity Hospice Care, First Tee (because of her love of golf and the help they give underprivileged children), the American Heart Association, or the American Cancer Association.

Nancy’s funeral service, which includes calling hours (9:45 a.m.) and the Funeral Mass (10:30 a.m.) will be Monday, Dec. 18 at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church. Her repast will immediately follow at PebbleCreek Tuscany Falls Clubhouse (Chianti Room) 16222 Clubhouse Drive Goodyear 85395.

The burial will take place in Greenfield, Mass.

Charles McKay

Charles McKay of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away on Dec. 1 after a short illness. Chuck was born Dec. 22, 1936, in Baltimore, M.D. Chuck moved into PebbleCreek in 1999 with his wife Jean. He is survived by two daughters and sons-in-law, Karen and Steve Hannes and Brenda and Mike Connolly; three grandchildren, Kelly and husband Sam Stahl, Ryan and wife Allie Connolly, and Laurel and husband Conor Reilly, and two great-grandchildren, Wesley Stahl and Reese Reilly. Chuck will be interred in the Prescott Veterans Cemetery, Prescott, Ariz.

David Edson Chambers

Life is precious … enjoy each and every moment … it can change in a blink of an eye. David Edson Chambers, husband of Traudl (Trudy) Chambers, suffered a stroke on Nov. 15. He remained in Abrazo Hospital’s ICU, until Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2023, when he was peacefully granted his angel wings, with the family surrounding him.

The following day was Thanksgiving … there was a lot to be thankful for, and the family is grateful David enjoyed a good life for 85 years. Born in Mason City, Iowa, he attended the University of Arizona after his folks’ move to Tucson. He was one of the chapter founders and member of Delta Upsilon and a great supporter of the Business school in later years. Dave started his career as a recruiter with Pan Am World Airways in Cape Canaveral, Fla. Briefly interrupted by the Draft (Army), he returned after two years to the job and location he loved … until an up-and-coming company, called Xerox, wanted expansion and lured him northbound to recruit for them. Ultimately, after a few other business alliances, he started his own successful executive search company, David Chambers & Associates, in midtown Manhattan, NYC, until he tired of daily commuting and relocated his business to the family home in Greenwich, Conn. When his bad hearing began to interfere with daily business, he retired in October 2007, and moved out West with Trudy … first to Palm Desert, Calif., and then to PebbleCreek on Dec. 2, 2015.

Although he didn’t pursue his dream of becoming a professional golfer, Dave never lost his childhood passion for the game. He fully enjoyed his membership at Winged Foot Golf Club, calling the East and West courses his ‘mistresses,’ and loved being a ‘spotter’ during several Masters tournaments. He was enthused about all types of sports, an avid reader, and a frequent story teller. Along with Trudy, he was into cruising and visiting different areas of the world. Predeceased by his parents, Robert and Louise Chambers and eldest brother William (Bill), David is survived by his wife of 55 years, Traudl (Trudy); sons Scott Chambers (Kerry) and Todd Chambers (Stephanie); daughter Andrea Hekler (Eric); and four grandchildren, Keely, Haley, Tyler, and Elijah; as well as his brothers John and Robert. We will always remember Dave for his hearty laughter and his enjoyment of a chilled glass—or two—of Grey Goose vodka with two olives, as well as his penchant for telling, and nonstop forwarding, of jokes.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 16 from 3 to 5 p.m. If interested in attending, please call Trudy for details at 203-921-5778.

Donna Marie Del Vecchio Staude

Donna Marie Del Vecchio Staude, a loving wife, sister, mother, and grandmother, a resident of PebbleCreek for the past 10 years, passed away peacefully, at age 79, late afternoon on Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2023.

Stricken with COPD, multiple minor strokes, and undergoing treatment for vertebral artery stenosis, she was unable to walk and confined to a lift chair for the past nine months.

Donna was born on Sept. 2, 1944, to Aurther and Claire Del Vecchio, in Chicago, Ill. After graduating from Riverside High School, Donna began her career working in downtown Chicago. She then married Alan Kuncl and owned a fast-food operation in downtown Chicago. She had her own pizzeria in Aurora, Colo., for several years.

Over 40 years ago, Donna met the love of her life, Jim Staude, in Aurora, on a blind date. It was love at first sight for both of them. They married at the Carroll University Chapel in Waukesha, Wis., on Dec. 31, 1988, followed by a honeymoon at Disney World in Orlando, Fla. They were married for 35 wonderful years.

After meeting in Aurora, Donna moved to Oakbrook, Ill., to be with Jim. She worked as a Relocation Executive for several years. After getting married, they moved to Albuquerque, N.M., where she became Secretary/Treasurer of J & D Ltd., Co., working with Jim and helped run Benton Moving Services, Allied Van Lines for 15 years in corporate account sales and marketing.

She moved to McCormick Ranch in Scottsdale, Ariz., where she worked remotely for Benton. Donna got heavily involved in craftwork and painting ceramics. They moved to PebbleCreek in Goodyear, Ariz., in 2013. She then turned her talents to sewing bandanas, coats, and other made-to-order clothing for small dogs for the next seven years, retiring in 2020.

Donna was known for her witty sense of humor and could always bring a smile to anyone she was with. She was outgoing, loved dogs, craftwork, sewing, traveling, and attending a variety of entertainment venues with Jim. Donna was loved by many and will be missed by all.

Mrs. Staude is survived by Jim, her husband of 35 years; one sister, Robbe (Daniel) Lapatowski of Naperville, Ill.; brother, Michael (Paula) Del Vecchio of Morrison, Colo.; a son, Blake Kuncl (Laura) of Minneapolis, Minn.; stepson, Jamie (Danielle) Staude of San Anselmo, Calif.; stepdaughter, Jennifer (Corey) Blair of Tempe, Ariz.; and 12 grandchildren, Max and Sasha Bailey; Wyatt, Lucy, George and Sophi Kuncl; Tyler, Sydney, and Kendyl Staude; and Carter, Hudson, and Maci Blair.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Claire Del Vecchio, and her daughter, Michelle Kuncl Bailey.

A Memorial Service will be held in Denver, Colo., in the spring of 2024, where her ashes, along with those of her daughter, Michelle, will be spread over the Rocky Mountains as per her wishes.

Terry Fisher

Terry Fisher, a dedicated public servant and beloved family man, passed away on Nov. 19, 2023, at the age of 78. His legacy is one of service, love, and a genuine passion for helping others.

Terry led a life marked by commitment, kindness, and a tireless work ethic. For 28 years, he served his community as a dedicated Carrier and Shop Steward for the United States Post Office. Terry’s dedication extended beyond the workplace; he was a fervent advocate for the rights and well-being of his colleagues, earning respect as a Shop Steward who tirelessly fought for justice and fairness.

In addition to his civilian service, Terry served his country honorably in the Army National Guard for 24 years. His commitment to duty and love for his country were evident throughout his military career, where he demonstrated leadership and dedication.

Terry’s heart was equally devoted to his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Renee, who stood beside him through thick and thin, sharing in the joys and challenges of life. Terry is also survived by his delightful children, Tara and Ryan.

Known for his selfless nature, Terry was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. His acts of kindness touched the lives of many, leaving an enduring impact on the community he served. Terry’s commitment to others was not limited to humans; his cherished dog, Sophie, was a constant source of companionship and comfort, reflecting his deep love for animals.

In his leisure time, Terry found joy in various activities. An avid sports enthusiast, he enjoyed golfing, pickleball, bowling, and volunteering with the Seattle Mariners at Spring Training.

As we bid farewell to Terry Fisher, let us remember him for the love he shared, the lives he touched, and the legacy of compassion he leaves behind. May he rest in eternal peace.

Verne E. Duncan

Verne Everett Duncan was born to Thomas H. and Orpha (Abernethy) Duncan on Feb. 2, 1935 in Scottsbluff, Neb., and passed away after a long illness at the age of 88 on Nov. 7, 2023. He was raised and educated in Scottsbluff, where he excelled in sports and played varsity football for his four years at Scottsbluff High School. He worked with the Boy Scouts of America during summers and was installed in the Order of the Arrow and became an Eagle Scout. Upon graduating from high school during the Korean War he was drafted into the Navy. He spent five years in Atsugi, Japan, serving as Arms Bearer for the commander of the Far East. After receiving an honorable discharge he attended Colorado State College and worked at Martin Marietta Missal Base in Denver, Colo. In Denver he met his wife Sharon Hillman, and they were married on April 29, 1962. After completing college he worked for Arapahoe County, Colorado, for 20 years.

In 1981 he and Sharon moved to Washington state to be near family. There he worked for the Department of Defense at Puget Sound Navy Shipyard in Bremerton, Wash., until his retirement in 2000. His favorite pastime in Washington was salmon fishing with family. In 2003, he and Sharon retired to Goodyear, Ariz.

Verne enjoyed flying and held a private pilot’s license for several years. He loved to travel and was an avid reader of history and enjoyed playing golf and card games. During football season and NASCAR season you could find him in front of the TV.

He was a Past Master and a 55-year member of Englewood Masonic Lodge #166 A.F. & A.M. in Colorado, member of Rocky Mountain Consistory, and a Deacon emeritus of The Church at Litchfield Park.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, a nephew, and several aunts and uncles. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Sharon; his nephews, Jeff Otero and Kevin (Gina) Otero and family; and his loving cousins and friends.

Memorials may be made to The Church at Litchfield Park, 300 N. Old Litchfield Rd., Litchfield Park, AZ 85340 or New Frontier Masonic Lodge #134 A.F. & A.M., 225 Acoma St. Denver, CO 80223. There will be no service at the request of the deceased. Inurnment will take place Dec. 4, 2023, at Ft Logan National Cemetery, Denver, Colo.

Rob Alexander

Robert Young Alexander III (79), passed away on Friday, Nov. 3, 2023. Born and raised in Wichita, Kan., Rob earned his degree from Wichita State University. After graduation he spent much of his life in Colorado working in the office furniture industry, eventually opening his own business, Office Options, for over 35 years. After splitting time between Colorado and Arizona, his final years were spent in Goodyear, Ariz., near family and friends, enjoying pickleball, golf, and extensive travel.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Young Alexander Jr., and his mother Kathleen “Kay” Alexander. He is survived by his wife, Judy Alexander, to whom he was married for more than 33 years; son, Shawn (Molly) Alexander; daughter, Ashley Wijbrandts; stepchildren Steve (Kandi) Thompson and Chris (Chad) Blake; his grandchildren, Zachary (Alyssa), Brady, Camden, Colton, Brooklyn, and Maddie; great-grandson, Asher; and his sister, Susan Fritzemeyer.

A Memorial Service for Rob was held at The Church at Litchfield Park on Nov. 22, 2023. A memorial has been established in Rob’s name at the Sarcoma Foundation of America.

James (Jim) Le Quesne

James (Jim) Le Quesne of Litchfield Park passed away on Oct. 30, 2023, after a brief illness.

Jim was born on Aug. 13, 1929, to Earl and Jessie Marion (Sangster) Le Quesne in Quebec, Canada. The family moved to Los Angeles in 1930.

Jim got a job in a food market and at age 14 became a cashier and a union member. He was able to save enough in two years to buy a 1928 Chevrolet and kept a photo of that his whole life.

Jim had completed his second year at Cal State Northridge when the Korean War began. He served in the Marine Corps from 1951 to 1954 and was discharged with the rank of Staff Sgt. Later he returned to Cal State and graduated with a B.S. in Business. Jim started his career as a CPA but later became a developer of small office buildings, condos, and small retail outlets. In the 1980s, he invested and worked in the Wind Turbine Business in Palm Springs, Calif.

In 1995, Jim retired and moved to PebbleCreek. Jim traveled extensively and especially enjoyed visiting China and Thailand and filled his home with Asian furniture and art. He loved the Phoenix Symphony Pops, PebbleCreek productions, and was active in the PC Singles Club and bocce team.

In September 2022 Jim moved to Independent Living at La Loma Village in Litchfield Park where he was captain of his bocce team.

Jim is survived by his sons James (Diana) of Washington, John of Utah, and Jeff of California; his grandchildren, Nick and Madison of California and Samantha of Florida; his nieces Cathy (Rick) Williams of Washington and Pat Fluhrer of Arizona; and his significant other of 16 years, Lianne Kimball.

Jim is predeceased by his sister, Eileen, his brother, George, and his wife of 20 years, Jean—mother of their three sons.

Funeral services were held on Nov. 13, 2023, and Jim was laid to rest in the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona beside his wife of 30 years, Marguerite (Margie).

Simone Jacobs

Simone Jacobs was born in Belgium, where she spent most of her childhood, before emigrating to the U.S. with her immediate family during WWII. Once settled in New York, she attended public schools where she quickly learned English and then attended NYU, where she met her husband “Bernie.” They remained best friends during their 50-plus years of devoted marriage, and proudly had two sons together. Simone and Bernie enjoyed a lifetime of worldwide travels and adventures with one another; including living in Japan and then building, sailing, and living on their handmade sailboat in Tahiti!

Simone was an intellectual, and a lifelong learner. She was also a wonderful painter, sculpture artist, and multi-linguist. She was a dedicated housewife and mother, and as her children grew up, she and her husband explored all around the U.S. together in their RV—always with a dog! Simone always enjoyed meeting new people, exploring new places, and appreciating good food and the arts. Her greatest joy was spending time amongst her close friends and her family.

In her later years she and her husband moved to Arizona, where she lived for more than 25 years. Simone became very involved in her PebbleCreek community; including but not limited to the following clubs and organizations: Shalom Club, Page Turners Book Club, The French Club, Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), and The Democratic Club.

Simone was regarded as a warm, kind, and caring woman. She will always be beloved for her easy laughter, passion for the ocean (and seafood), never-ending curiosity, and enjoyable conversations. Simone passed away peacefully at the age of 94, had a very full and exciting life, and was blessed with having many friends.

Simone is honored and remembered as a loving wife, mother, and grandmother who was always there for her family.

Her deep appreciation for life was evident in her beautiful smile!
“Adieu mes amis!”

Joan Carol (Beck) Stedman

Joan was born on July 31, 1944, in Oakland, Calif. She has one older sister and one younger brother. She lived in Orland, Calif., where her father had an all-jersey dairy and she learned how to take care of dairy animals as well as other farm critters.

While she was in junior high, the family moved to Eureka, Calif., where her father worked as a glazier. This is where she obtained her interest in all things glass. Joan graduated from St. Bernard’s High School, where she lettered on the school tennis team for four years. She graduated with Honors in 1963.

Joan and Hal met in 1962 and married in 1965. Joan worked in accounting/bookkeeping while Hal went to college and graduated in 1971 from San Jose State College. They then moved to Oregon and finally settled in Tigard in 1973. Joan worked at Oregon Education Association as bookkeeper and secretary for 19 years. They have two sons and two grandchildren.

They moved to Goodyear, Ariz., in 2000 and took up residence in PebbleCreek Golf Resort because Joan desired to return to playing tennis after retirement. She played on various women’s teams throughout the following 20 years and made many great friends. She regularly attended aerobics classes and used the swimming and lap pools to maintain her tan and get water exercise.

In 2009 she began creating art using fused glass in the community’s Creative Arts Center. Through her love of color and design she produced many beautiful contemporary glass art works that adorn her own house as well as others in the community. Everyone will remember Joan working in the Art Gallery on Tuesdays. She really enjoyed helping all the customers and artists whom she had contact with.

Traveling to warm places to escape the Oregon winters was a passion for Joan. Hawaii was always high on her list, but there were many trips to Florida and the Caribbean as well. Maui was her absolute favorite, though.

In June 2022, Joan was diagnosed with a rare cancer in her sinus. She endured three surgeries and 6 months of immunotherapy and radiation therapy. Sadly, the relentless disease took her life on Oct. 28, 2023. She passed peacefully in her own bed at 2 p.m. with both her sons and her husband by her side.

A funeral mass will be held at St. John Vianney Catholic Church in Goodyear on Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2023, at 10 a.m. Please send any flowers to Thompson Funeral Chapel for inclusion in the church service display.

Monica Hull

Monica Hull of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away peacefully at home on Oct. 26, 2023, at the age of 62. She was born April 18, 1961, in Superior, Neb., to Arlen and Adalene (Freitag) Schlueter. She was preceded in death by her mother Adalee Schlueter, and her grandparents Fritz and Emma Schlueter and William and Ella Freitag.

Monica grew up on a farm near Hardy, Neb. She was a very active child whose parents always hoped she would make it to her adult years. She graduated from Superior High School in Superior, Neb., and went on to major in accounting at Hastings Community College. She began her career as a bookkeeper for the Sutton Vet Clinic (Sutton, Neb.).

In the summer of 1982, she met her future husband, Paul. It was love at first sight and they were married a year later. Monica followed Paul throughout his education career living in Holdrege, Neb., where she was a bookkeeper for Great Plains Asbestos Control in Kearney, Neb. Her next position was as bookkeeper for Shickley Grain Company in Shickley, Neb. During this time, she attended York College in Nebraska to complete a B.A. in accounting and she also passed the CPA exam. Her hard work and dedication to her employer eventually earned her the title of VP of Finance at QC Supply in Schuyler, Neb.

Monica was an amazing wife, mother, and friend. She was a mentor to many and was always willing to help anyone in need. She loved to sew; making quilts and other projects for charity organizations. Her greatest joy was family and their Yorkies. Her spirit and love will be forever missed.

Monica is survived by her husband of 40 years, Paul Hull; son Derek Hull (of Sarasota, Fla.); father Arlen Schlueter (of Superior, Neb.); sisters Valarie (Bryan) Bard (of Hardy, Neb.) and Shelly (Jim) Scott (of Broken Bow, Neb.); and her brother Lindley (Melanie) Schlueter (of Geneva, Neb.). She is also survived by her extended family and many friends.

A Celebration of Life will begin at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023, at the Byron Community Center in Byron, Neb. A special Blessing for Monica will be given at 1:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Glioblastoma Foundation, www.glioblastomafoundation.org.

Earl Smith

Earl R. Smith passed away peacefully on Oct. 23, 2023, after a full and adventurous life. Born in Chicago, Ill., to Theodore (Ted) and Mary (Scheidler) Smith on March 13, 1930, he was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

He graduated from York High School in Elmhurst, where he met his future wife, Althea Rautenberg, in 1948. He was a star athlete, excelling in baseball, basketball, and track, as well as being a decorated Scout. Earl attended Illinois-Navy Pier and then transferred to the University of Illinois in Champaign where he received both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering.

Earl and Thea were married on Nov. 29, 1952 in Elmhurst, Ill., and celebrated their 70th anniversary last year. After finishing his master’s work, Earl was conscripted into the U.S. Army and stationed in Toledo, Ohio, for two years during the Korean Conflict. Upon being discharged, Earl went to work for The Dow Chemical Company and his 35-year career took them to Midland (MI), The Netherlands, Texas, Chile, Brazil, and California.

Earl and Thea retired in Arizona, where he continued to play softball and golf into his late 80s. When not traveling, Earl enjoyed having projects to do around the house and experimented with woodworking, jewelry- and clock-making, and working with stained glass along with photography. To escape the heat, they summered in Michigan where he also enjoyed boating and other lake activities.

Survivors include: a sister, Marilu Anderson of Mauston, Wis.; a son and daughter-in-law, Greg and Beth Smith of South Carolina; and a daughter and son-in-law, Rebecca and Kurt Faust of Michigan. He has five grandchildren: Ashley Smith of Missouri; Christian Smith of South Carolina; Daniel (Chessie) Smith of Kentucky; Alex (Ally) Faust of Michigan; and Andrea (Alex) DeVries of Michigan. In addition, he has four great-grandchildren: Mac and Cam Faust; and Evelyn and Eddie DeVries.

His beloved Thea predeceased Earl by 76 days. He was also predeceased by his parents and his brother, Robert Smith, as well as his mother-in-law, father-in-law, and sisters-in-law, Peggy (Ray) Speth and Lois (Bill) Matheson and their husbands.

A Memorial Service for both Earl and Thea will be held on Friday, Nov. 10 at 10 a.m. MST in The Church at Litchfield Park in Arizona. The event will be “live-streamed” at this link: www.youtube.com/@clpmemorials25/streams.

Donations in Earl’s memory can be sent to: West Valley Symphony, P.O. Box 7328, Surprise, AZ 88374-0105, www.westvalleysymphony.org.

Arnold R. Cronquist

Arnold R. Cronquist “Arnie,” 95, went to be with the Lord on Oct. 22, 2023. He was born in Rockford, Ill., in 1928 to parents Clara and Oscar Cronquist. He graduated from East Rockford High School and then attended Illinois College in Jacksonville, Ill. This is where he met his wife, Arline Ball. They were married in Chicago in 1950 and were blessed with three children, Craig, Nancy and Alison.

Arnold worked for Armour Foods and moved many times to positions in different states where plants were located. The biggest move was to Arizona in 1971. The entire executive office was moved at that time. In 1985 we moved to Omaha, Neb., because Armour was now a part of ConAgra. Arnold worked until late 1986 when he retired as a Vice President after 37 years of service.

After retiring Arnie and Arline moved to a new home in Scottsdale and found that we needed more activities for seniors, so we made another move. We moved to PebbleCreek in 1997 and we enjoyed many activities such as playing bridge, golf, and bocce ball. Arnold volunteered at the local food bank for 11 years and enjoyed working with the other volunteers and meeting the people who came in for help. Arnold also volunteered at the Litchfield Park Elementary School. He helped students who were having problems reading. That was a pleasure for him. Arnold and Arline also enjoyed many cruises. It was so nice to unpack once for a week or more of pleasure and good food. We enjoyed our wonderful neighbors and the monthly parties we attended. And as members of The Church at Litchfield Park we partake in the goodness and joy of God’s world.

When Arnold passed in 2023 he accomplished his goal, he was retired for 37 years. That matched the 37 years he worked. SUCCESS.

Arnold is survived by his wife of 73 years, Arline; son, Craig (Emily) Cronquist; daughters, Nancy (Gordon) Gartner and Alison (John) Perry; 10 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great grandchild. A private memorial service was held. He is dearly missed.

Susie Clark

It is with great sadness that I post this. My mother-in-law, Susie Clark (our Digi), passed away on Friday, Oct. 20, 2023, in Escondido, Calif., surrounded by her two sons Jerald Welch and Jay Welch, her best friend Val Mueller, and myself, Emily Welch. She fought hard against cancer over this last year. Susie lived in PebbleCreek for several years and considered it some of her favorite memories with wonderful people.

Neighbors, pickleball partners, and friends at Calvary Church were all special to her. We find comfort and joy in knowing that for Susie, being absent from the body is being present with the Lord.

We miss her.

Glenn David Wendt

Glenn Wendt passed away on Oct. 11, 2023, in Litchfield Park, Ariz. He was 92 at the time of his death. Glenn was born on Dec. 27, 1930, to George and Mabel (Wolf) Wendt in Kearney, Neb. He was the youngest of three children. The family moved from Kearney, Neb., to LaGrange, Wyo., when Glenn was 2 months old. He graduated from high school in LaGrange and in 1951 married Phyllis Rathman of Harrisburg Nebraska. Glenn eventually took over the family business, which included a mechanic shop, bulk oil and gas delivery, and farm equipment sales. He continued in business eventually adding appliance sales and service and then retired in 2001. Upon retirement, Glenn and Phyllis moved to Goodyear, Ariz., where they lived until their deaths.

Glenn is preceded in death by his wife Phyllis (Rathman) Wendt, parents George and Mabel Wendt, sisters Helen (Wendt) Dunn and Mildred (Wendt) Holdren, and granddaughter Kristina Wendt. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, David and Susan Wendt, daughter Trudy (Wendt) Ball, three grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Interment will be at the LaGrange Cemetery in LaGrange, Wyo., at a later date.

Those wishing to make a donation in Glenn’s name are directed to LaGrange Fire Department P.O. Box 99, LaGrange, Wyoming 82221.

Kathleen O’Connell

Kathleen M. Irwin O’Connell (age 84) of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away after a brief hospitalization while surrounded by her children on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023, in Goodyear. She was born in Newark, N.J., on Dec. 1, 1938, to the late John Oliver Irwin and Georgina Foster Irwin.

Kathleen’s parents arrived as immigrants from Ireland through Ellis Island. They married and raised Kathleen and her brothers, Foster and George, in West Orange, N.J. In 1956, she graduated from West Orange High School, where she had also met her future husband. Kathleen married Joseph M. O’Connell on Oct. 24, 1959 and remained with him until his passing on March 22, 1993.

The family moved to Chester, N.J., in 1964, and then to Cazenovia, N.Y., in 1987. After her husband’s passing, Kathleen moved to PebbleCreek in Goodyear, Ariz., in 2000.

Kathleen was a registered nurse and graduated from East Orange General Hospital RN program in 1958. She loved to work with children at the Matheny School in Peapack, N.J.

Kathleen was an outgoing, talkative, warm, and caring devoted Christian who loved to listen to Christian music and read her daily devotions and Bible. She was very active in her churches in Chester, N.J., Cazenovia, N.Y., and Goodyear, Ariz., teaching Sunday school, and leading Bible studies. She loved to do calls and facetime calls with her Irish relatives late into the night and was an avid user of technology to communicate with her family and friends. She loved to listen to classical music and books on tape and eat Cheez-It crackers with a glass of wine with a few ice cubes in it.

Kathleen was passionate about the arts especially the Fiber Arts of weaving, quilting, and knitting as well as painting. She loved to create art with her hands. She was very active in the PebbleCreek Quilters Guild as a mentor and contributor. She loved gardening, traveling, and visiting family and friends across the country and Ireland.

She was a devoted and loving mother and grandmother. She was so proud of her four grandchildren and boasted about them to anyone she met. Her spirit will live on in her children, grandchildren, and those that she touched. She will be missed by her family and friends.

Kathleen is survived by her children, Steven O’Connell, Susan O’Connell, and Linda O’Connell Rescigno and her beloved grandchildren Caitlin, Shannon, Megan, and Scod. She is also survived by her brother George Irwin.

A memorial service will be held Oct. 21, 2023, at the First Congregational Church of Chester in New Jersey, where she will be buried next to her husband.
If you would like to make a donation in her honor, the following charities were very dear to her heart or supported her in her final years: Biblica, The International Bible Society, Kare Bears of PebbleCreek, and Our Lady of Guadalupe Ministry in Phoenix, Ariz.

Rena L. Chouinard

Rena L. Chouinard of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away on Sept. 9, 2023, at the age of 80 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. She was born on June 18, 1943, in Cornwall, Ontario, Canada to the late Lionel Toupin and Marion (Smith) Toupin. In 1964 she married Arthur Chouinard, her grade school sweetheart, in Canada. They enjoyed a wonderful life together until his passing in 2022. She is survived by her son, Steven (Kristi) Chouinard of Scottsdale, Ariz.; daughter Julia (Mike) Mellinger of Pismo Beach, Calif.; four grandchildren: Kaitlin (Dylan) Lane; Morgan Chouinard; Scarlett Mellinger, and Sierra Mellinger; three great-grandchildren: Aubrey, Skylar, and Nolan Lane; sister, Brenda Walker of Ottawa, Canada; and brother, Mike Toupin of Cornwall, Canada.

Rena worked for the Grand Counsel of the Crees, North American Indigenous people, and was the secretary for Grand Chief Billy Diamond while living in Montreal, Canada. In 1980, the family took a leap of faith by moving to Phoenix, Ariz., where they could enjoy warmer weather. Rena loved living in Arizona. She worked for The Breast Evaluation Center where she had the opportunity to meet Dr. Laszlo Tabar, a world renowned radiologist from Sweden, who is a significant contributor to the fight against breast cancer around the world. Dr. Tabar eventually hired Rena to be the Manager of his company, Mammography Education Inc. She had a long career working for Dr. Tabar. She traveled all over the world setting up his educational courses for continuing education for physicians and technologists. Oftentimes, Arthur would meet Rena after the courses were done, and they would explore many countries together. Rena was a gentle and caring woman who enjoyed helping others in need, so soon after she retired, Rena went back to work at the Cancer Treatment Center of America where she welcomed patients with her warm smile.

One of Rena’s true passions was tennis. She thoroughly enjoyed the tennis community and played in many tournaments throughout her life, often winning her matches and bringing home trophies. In 1989, her team won the Southwestern 3.5 USTA/Volvo National Championship. Rena continued to remain active with the PebbleCreek Tennis Club, her book club, and loved socializing with her many cherished friends. She enjoyed cooking, reading, watching Hallmark movies, and decorating her home. Rena was an avid gardener and enjoyed traveling the world with Arthur. One of Rena’s greatest achievements was her devotion to her loving family and lifelong friends.

Rena will be greatly missed by many. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Regina M. Adelman

Regina M. Adelman (Gina) passed away on Sept. 4, 2023, from metastatic breast cancer. Gina was 80 years old.

Gina was born in Baltimore, Md., on July 12,1943. To the delight of her Polish family, she learned to play the accordion to accompany her father’s singing at family events. After graduation from the Institute of Notre Dame in Baltimore, she married and began her family and career.

Gina met Rodney Adelman in early 2002 and married in 2004. In mid-2005, they both retired and in late 2005, moved to PebbleCreek. Gina became a member of the Wine Club, the Lady Tigers PC Women’s Softball team, and the Pickleball Club at their founding. She assisted new Pickleball Club members in understanding and playing the game.

Gina was a true competitor. It didn’t matter if it was board games with family (Scrabble “champion” of the family), fantasy football leagues (where she spent hours each week studying statistics and reviews before selecting her starters), or cheering on her beloved Maryland Terrapins (major sports and lacrosse). After Covid, cruising became her No. 1 pastime, with sailings in the Sea of Cortez, the Alaska Inside Passage, a trans-Atlantic crossing including several stops in Iceland, and a South America/Antarctica voyage.

She enjoyed listening to a variety of music: ’50s rock ‘n’ roll, classical, and opera (especially The Three Tenors and in particular, Andrea Bocelli), and especially enjoyed the tribute concerts in PebbleCreek. As a teenager, she landed a coveted spot as a dancer on “The Buddy Deane Show” (the Baltimore equivalent of the Dick Clark show) at the close of the 1950s. Her favorite song was “Truly” by Lionel Richie.

A caring and compassionate person, she nursed her ailing mother for eight years until her passing in 2020. And nothing could prevent her from spending the holidays with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren on the East Coast.

Gina was preceded in death by her parents, James and Regina Gregorek (Odachowski), and son, Kurt Tesch. She is survived by her husband, Rodney Adelman; daughter, Tara Forsburg; stepdaughter, Valerie Collier; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

A funeral mass was held on Sept. 14, 2023, at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Avondale, with inurnment at St. Stanislaus Cemetery in Baltimore, Md. Donations in Gina’s memory may be made to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

F. Leon Looney

Dearest neighbors, friends, and family, we have lost a bright star from our world. F. Leon Looney went home to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday the 27th of August, 2023. After a massive stroke and two weeks in the hospital, he is now at rest.

Leon was born to his parents Floy and Helen Looney on the 16th of February, 1945 in “Old St. Joe’s” in Phoenix and raised in Buckeye. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Cheryl; his two sons, Brian (Karen) and Carter (Christina); his four grandchildren, Helen Marie, John, Annabelle, and Samuel; and his siblings Patricia Ann and Steven.

He was a loving husband and father, brother and friend. To all who knew him, he will be missed greatly. Over the past five years we have spoken often of this day, and I know he left the world with no regrets. He always told me not to worry if he went first, he would be happy in Heaven with the Trinity and praying for our well-being.

His most ardent wish was that you should know the Almighty Father and your Savior Jesus Christ who died for our sins.

Please pray for peace for his friends and family.

The Leon Looney family

Patricia (Helen) Foulks

Patricia (Helen) (Switzer) Foulks transitioned onto her home Aug. 23, 2023. She was surrounded by her children, Lisa Foulks-Presley, Lori Foulks, and Keith Foulks in Goodyear, Ariz., after a short battle with cancer. She was 85 years and very active.

Helen was born March 18, 1938, in Montour Falls, N.Y., the daughter of Herman and Edith (Beardslee) Switzer. She graduated from Trumansburg High School and flew herself to California at the age of 17 in 1955. She landed in San Diego and six months later met the love of her life, Keith Leon (Lee) Foulks, a SeaBee. They were married on Dec. 28, 1957, at the Chapel of The Roses in Chula Vista. They moved to Port Hueneme in 1963. She was a stay-at-home mom for many years and a military wife.

Helen began her work on Midway Island as a program host from 1968-69, which allowed her the opportunity to work at KACY Radio Station in Oxnard, Calif. It gave her the opening to work in bookkeeping which from there, she began her own bookkeeping service, Sunkist Secretarial and Bookkeeping Services. She had several large accounts that she worked on out of her home and brought with her to Arizona.

Helen and Lee were very involved at Hill Street Southern Baptist Church for many years in Oxnard as a Deacon and Sunday School teachers from 1973-89. After her husband of 39 years passed away in 1998, she moved to Ventura, Calif., to get away from the ‘June Gloom’ in 2000. She still needed more blue sky and sunshine, and followed her brother and sister-in-law Leigh and Sherri Switzer to PebbleCreek resort in Arizona in 2006. Her favorite things in PebbleCreek were her friends that she made each day or night at the pool.

Helen loved walks in the early morning, the night sky, full moons, and dusk. Helen was best known for always being positive, being kind, and having a generous spirit. Helen could laugh, cry, and pray with you, and she was loved for that alone. Her super power was to make you laugh with her stories of her life experiences and silly sweet sarcasm. She always had water, coffee, a Coke, or a beer, and you were welcomed anywhere she lived.

She is survived by her sister Carol and four grandchildren, Joshua Foulks (Kelly), Brittany Foulks, Bryana Visin (Blake), and Jensen Presley (Heather). She is survived by 10 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews who truly loved her. Helen is predeceased by her husband; parents; her sisters, Anne, Kathy, and MaryEllen; and two brothers, Leigh and Clyde; and her grandson John Carl.

Funeral arrangements have been made for Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2023, at 2 p.m. You may send flowers to Conejo Mountain Funeral Home, 2052 Howard Rd., Camarillo, CA 93012 or donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. There will be a Celebration of Life for the first week of Nov. 4, 2023, in PebbleCreek for her many friends, snowbird friends, and family in Arizona.

Michael J. James Jr.

Michael James, 85, passed away on Aug. 23, 2023, in Goodyear, Ariz.

He was born to the late Michael J. James and Esther R. James on July 25, 1938, in Rochester, N.Y. He is survived by his wife Lona Anderson, brother Richard James (Sally), and many beloved nieces and nephews. His sister Joan Kircher (Robert) preceded him in death.

He enlisted in the Navy at 17 and after his service returned to New York to pursue his education. He obtained his BS degree from SUNY NY. Then, sight unseen, relocated to Phoenix to pursue his MS at ASU while teaching high school. His quest for adventure then led him to California for a job in human relations with an electronics firm. Seeking a new adventure, he took an exciting year off to live in Paris. Upon his return to the U.S. in 1974, he relocated to Denver where he met his wife, Lona.

Michael was always busy, a hard worker, and willing to learn anything that interested him. The final 18 years of his working life was as a sales rep, manager, and VP of a surgical equipment company. After retirement in 2013 he and Lona relocated to PebbleCreek.

Michael was kind, loving, and always up for the next adventure. He and Lona (not always willingly) sailed, skied, fished, snorkeled, and traveled to every continent. He loved anything outdoors, especially if it involved the ocean. He loved good food, wine, and a good party. He always had a soft spot for animals, cats, dogs, fish, birds (parrots !?), and he had them all.

Michael was especially proud of his nieces and nephews and made an annual trip to the east coast to see them and hear about their latest accomplishments. He and Lona tried to attend every milestone event they could.

Michael will be missed by all who knew the guy who could laugh about himself with a twinkle in his eye.

Cynthia “Cyndee” Krause

In Loving Memory of Cynthia Ann Krause: A Life of Love, Family, Travel, and Dedication to Education

Cynthia, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and dedicated educator, passed away on Aug. 12, 2023, at the age of 74. An unwavering love marked her life for her family, teaching, learning, and a legacy of devotion that will forever be cherished.

Cynthia was born June 2, 1949, in Chicago. She grew up to become a woman of remarkable strength and kindness, qualities that would define her throughout her life. In 1969, she married her high school sweetheart, Douglas, in a union that would last over five decades. This month, they would have celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary, a testament to their enduring love and commitment to one another.

Her greatest joy was her family. Cynthia was a devoted mother to her three surviving children, Carrie, Justin, and Lukas. Her heart was forever touched by the memory of her beloved daughter, Amanda, who passed away in infancy. Cynthia’s nurturing spirit and unwavering love shaped the lives of her children and, in turn, the lives of her grandchildren: Elisabeth, Thomas, and Rylan. Her legacy of love and care lives on in the hearts of each generation.

Cynthia was a passionate and dedicated educator whose impact extended beyond her immediate family. She spent over three decades inspiring and molding young minds as a high school and university teacher in the Chicago area. Her enthusiasm for education was infectious, and her students held a special place in her heart. Cynthia’s commitment to teaching went beyond the classroom, for she nurtured a love of service by sponsoring the student council for many years. Cynthia was also a certified midwife and Lamaze instructor. Over her lifetime, she had the privilege of helping to deliver over 200 babies to this world.

Cynthia embarked on a remarkable journey of knowledge and wisdom throughout her life. Cynthia had an insatiable appetite for literature and history, spending countless hours engrossed in books. Her library was a treasure trove of wisdom, reflecting her inquisitive mind and love for the written word. Academically, she graduated from North Central College with a bachelor’s degree, where she laid the foundation for her passion for learning. Her thirst for knowledge led her to pursue further studies at National University, where she earned her master’s degree, and later, at Northern Illinois University, where she achieved her doctorate. Her academic achievements were a testament to her tenacity and determination, inspiring those around her to reach their dreams and goals.

In 2012, Cynthia and Douglas embarked on a new chapter of their lives, retiring to Goodyear, Ariz., where they found a loving community filled with warmth and beautiful friendships. Cynthia continued engaging with her community as an officer in the local chapters of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the National Society of Colonial Dames, and the Daughters of the Union Veterans of the Civil War. She also enjoyed participating in various activities at church. Her time in Arizona brought her immense joy.

Cynthia leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and dedication. Her memory will forever be cherished by her husband, Douglas, her children Carrie (Chris), Justin (Michael), and Lukas (Valerie), her grandchildren, Elisabeth, Thomas, and Rylan, and all those who had the privilege of knowing her.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research in her memory.

As we bid farewell to Cynthia, let us remember her vibrant spirit, her unwavering love, and her profound impact on the lives she touched. May she rest in eternal peace, reunited with her beloved daughter Amanda, and forever surrounded by the love and light she shared with the world.

Verna Isabelle Enyeart

Verna Isabelle Enyeart passed away on Aug. 9, 2023, at the age of 84. Verna was born on Sept. 27, 1938, in Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada, to Arthur and Florence Johnson, and was the second born of six children.

After high school, Verna moved to Edmonton, Alberta, to work for Imperial Oil. A few years later, Imperial asked her to move to Denver to work for them at Chevron Oil. She always said that was one of the very best decisions she ever made, as shortly after arriving in Denver, she met the love of her life, George Enyeart. They were married in June of 1961, and in October of 1962, their daughter Tracey was born.

Also around that time, the Denver Broncos started selling the first season tickets to their games, and Verna convinced George that they should buy a couple. Verna became an avid Denver Broncos fan, as were George and Tracey, but there was no fan like Verna! She never stopped rooting for the Broncos and could talk football with the best of them!

Verna, George, and Tracey left Denver and moved to Breckenridge, Colo., in 1970 (only after George promised her they would never have to stop going to Bronco games), where George started his electrical contracting business and Verna handled the books. In the late ’70s they sold that business and started Mountain Tee’s with their good friends Chuck and Sandy Struve. They all worked hard to create and cultivate a successful retail business with locations in Breckenridge and Vail.

In 1976, Verna decided she wanted to run for Breckenridge Town Council. In order to do that, she had to become a U.S. citizen, which she did proudly. She served on the Town Council during the “Bullish on Breckenridge” years, and also served on the town Planning Commission, the Colorado NFIB, and several other boards, commissions, and task forces.

In 1992 her grandson August was born, and she thrived in her new role as “Gammy.” She and August had a marvelous relationship, and he was truly one of the highlights of her life.

She was a force to be reckoned with, and most importantly, she stood by her convictions. She loved to win an argument, and if you were going to engage with her in one, you better have had your facts straight!

George and Verna retired to The Landings on Skidaway Island in Savannah, Ga., in 2001, and there they enjoyed traveling, playing golf, and entertaining. Verna also became a skilled bridge player and was a member of the “Oh, Canada” group and many other clubs and groups on the island. They took fabulous vacations and made many wonderful friends there.

After George’s passing, Verna moved to the Robson Reserve in Goodyear, Ariz., to be near Tracey and her husband, Jim, who reside in PebbleCreek. She never missed a Sunday dinner at their house or with them at a restaurant, and she enjoyed her time with them immensely. She had a real soft spot in her heart for Jim, whom she called “The Best Son-in-Law Ever.”

Verna leaves behind her daughter Tracey Littlefield and husband Jim, her grandson August Evers and his wife Erica, sister Pat DiTomaso, brothers Allan (Gail), Don (Lynne), and Bob Johnson, and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews throughout the U.S. and Canada.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Sept. 9, in the Imperial Ballroom at Beaver Run Resort, from 1 to 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Treasure Street at Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children (www.scottishriteforchildren.org) 214-559-8374, or the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (www.ocrahope.org) 212-268-1002.

Larry E. Heinz

Larry Ernest Heinz passed away peacefully in the Phoenix VA Hospital on Aug. 9, 2023, at the age of 76. He had recently been diagnosed with metastatic pancreatic cancer, liver cancer, lymph node cancer, and other complications.

Larry was born in Everett, Wash., on Feb. 27, 1947. Shortly after that his family moved to Spokane, Wash., where he grew up and attended North Central High School, graduating in 1965. After that he attended Spokane Community College, where he played baseball, and has since been inducted into their Hall of Fame. Following SCC, he enlisted in the Air Force and served two tours in Thailand during the Vietnam War.

Upon returning from the war, Larry attended Whitworth College and Eastern Washington College where he earned his teaching degree. He went to the University of Portland to attain his master’s degree in education. In 1985, he was hired at Rochester High School as a teacher and head baseball coach. Here, he built a 20+ year legacy appearing in the state final four on five different occasions, placing 4th, 2nd twice, and bringing home two state championships! From this he was inducted into the Washington State Baseball Hall of Fame.

After retiring from teaching, while living in Cincinnati, he taught for a year at Moeller High School (Ken Griffey Jr.’s alma mater) yet bringing home another championship with the baseball team. Through Facebook, he re-connected with his college girlfriend, Karla Glanville (Heinz) and after 46 years of absence, they were married in March 2015. They moved to PebbleCreek in October 2015 and have resided here since. His love of teaching landed him a full-time job at Millennium High School, teaching history for several years and still actively doing substitute teaching.

His mother, Wilma Richardson, preceded Larry in death in 1998. Surviving him is his son Erik (Quinn) and his granddaughters, Charlotte, Chandler, and Sawyer along with his wife, Karla Heinz and her four children, Chris (Julie), Kera (Brian), Timmy (Daniel), Sara, and Karla’s four grandchildren, Lauren, George, Maxson, and Charlie, and Larry’s first wife and mother of Erik, Laurie Richardson Betts (Richard).

There will be a celebration of Life at Rochester High School in the gymnasium on Sept 30 at 1 p.m. There will also be a tree planting and dedication in October, here in Goodyear, at Millennium High School (to be announced).

Thea Smith

Althea (Thea) Rautenberg Smith passed away peacefully on Aug. 8, 2023, after a full and joyous life. Born in Elmhurst, Ill., to Ernest and Althea (Kimberly) Rautenberg on Jan. 1, 1932, she was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

She graduated from York High School in Elmhurst, where she met her husband, Earl R. Smith. Thea attended DePauw University and then transferred to the University of Illinois so she could be with Earl. She joined the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority and was a lifelong member, as well as being a member of the Phi Beta Kappa Society (the nation’s most prestigious academic honor society).

Earl and Thea were married on Nov. 29, 1952, in Elmhurst, Ill., and celebrated their 70th anniversary last year. Earl worked for The Dow Chemical Company, and his job took them to Midland (MI), The Netherlands, Texas, Chile, Brazil, and California. While moving around, Thea was able to be a member of many different groups. She was a P.E.O. Sister for 57 years and was also a member of many other prestigious groups.

She was a lifelong volunteer in schools in order to pass on her love of learning and endowed a scholarship for young women attending college. Thea was a fervent patron of the Arts, but also enjoyed Sports, especially baseball and golf. Thea had an eye for color and was a great interior designer. Later in life, she became an accomplished watercolor painter.

Earl and Thea retired in Arizona, where she played golf, painted, and went to exercise classes (up until the day before her passing). Thea was a breast cancer survivor, an avid reader, and had a strong Christian faith.

Survivors include her beloved husband, Earl, of Goodyear, Ariz.; a son and daughter-in-law, Greg and Beth Smith of South Carolina; and a daughter and son-in-law, Rebecca and Kurt Faust of Michigan. She has five grandchildren: Ashley Smith of Missouri, Christian Smith of South Carolina, Daniel (Chessie) Smith of Kentucky, Alex (Ally) Faust of Michigan, and Andrea (Alex) DeVries of Michigan. In addition, she has three great-grandchildren: Mac and Cam Faust; Evelyn DeVries and her brother due at the end of August.

Details for a Service in memory of Thea will be forthcoming.

Donations in Thea’s memory can be sent to:
P.E.O. Continuing Education
In Honor of Althea Smith
P.E.O. Chapter ET
3025 N. 160th Ave.
Goodyear, AZ 85395

Paul Peter Stutzke

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Paul Peter Stutzke (92) of Goodyear, Ariz. Paul peacefully passed away on July 16, 2023, at Cozy Home Care in Surprise, Ariz.

Paul was born on Aug. 22, 1930, in Chicago, Ill., to the late Paul Peter Stutzke Sr. and the late Cecilia (Smith) Stutzke.Paul attended Our Lady of Victory Catholic School for elementary school and then St. Mel’s High School (class of 1948), both in Chicago.

In January 1951, Paul enlisted in the United States Coast Guard. He was Honorably Discharged, in 1954, after completing three years of service. Paul then attended the University of Notre Dame, in South Bend, Ind. He graduated “Cum laude” in 1958, earning the degree of Bachelor of Science in Commerce.

Paul then began his career as an internal auditor. Paul worked as an internal auditor at CNA (Continental National Assurance) in Chicago, eventually being promoted to the role of supervisor. While at CNA he established several lifelong friendships. Upon leaving CNA, Paul was employed by Bankers Life and Casualty in their Internal Auditing Department. He was later offered an Internal Audit Manager position with the State of Illinois Department of Employment Security. Paul remained there until he retired in 1996.

Paul met his wife, Teresita (Terri) (nee Becker Dizon) in Chicago. They were married on July 1, 1972, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Evanston, Ill. They established their residence in Libertyville, Ill., in 1973, where they raised their two children, Catherine and Steven. Upon Paul’s retirement in 1996, the family relocated to PebbleCreek in Goodyear, Ariz. Paul and Terri recently celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary.

Paul was an avid reader and enjoyed listening to classical music and Big Band, especially Glenn Miller. Paul was a diehard, lifelong Chicago Cubs baseball fan, attending many games throughout his lifetime. Paul also enjoyed watching the Chicago Bears and Notre Dame college football. He frequently traveled with his friends and/or family to South Bend to watch Notre Dame home games. Paul also enjoyed vacationing throughout the country with his family.

Paul had a longstanding love and enjoyment for the game of golf, after being introduced to the sport by former roommate, Arnold Palmer, while they served in the U.S. Coast Guard. During retirement Paul enjoyed many more years of playing golf, as well as babysitting his only grandchild Nathan Maynard.

Paul was a dedicated, generous, faithful, and loving husband, father, and papa.

Unfortunately, Paul was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2014, and later diagnosed with dementia. In March 2018, Paul was placed into Cozy Home Care due to advancing symptoms of Parkinson’s and dementia. He was given the last rites on May 10, 2023, by Fr. Gregory Menegay of St. Clare of Assisi Roman Catholic Church in Surprise, Ariz.

Paul died peacefully and joined God on July 16, 2023, at 10:28 p.m.

Paul is survived by his wife Terri, daughter Catherine (Stutzke) Maynard (50), his son Steven Stutzke (47), and grandson Nathan Maynard (19). He is also survived by his two sisters, Gloria Stutzke (96) and Patricia Stutzke (90).

Visitation was held on Aug. 3, 2023, at Holy Cross Funeral Home in Avondale, Ariz. Funeral Mass was held at St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church in Surprise, Ariz., on Aug. 4, 2023. Inurnment was held on Aug. 12, 2023, at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery in Avondale, Ariz.

Lorraine Provenzale

Lorraine Mary Provenzale (nee Speranza), 74, passed away on July 16, 2023, after a battle with COPD.

She is survived by her husband, Peter, who she met when they were 13 in Brooklyn, N.Y. Their union spanned 61 wonderful years, including seven years going “steady.” She is also survived by her daughter Julie, her sister Barbara Palone and brother-in-law Joe, her grandson Sam Bucci, her son-in-law Jimmy, her brothers-in-law Michael and Leonard, her sister-in-law Lena, and 14 nieces and nephews and their families.

Her son, Peter, preceded her in death as did her brother, George, and sisters-in-law, Rita and Kathy.

Lorraine was born in Brooklyn, and worked for several years for the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and worked for Somerset, N.J., B of Ed. Lorraine and Peter spent the first part of their years as parents in NYC and moved to New Jersey in 1985. In 2005 they moved to an adult community in Somerset, N.J.

They moved to Arizona in 2020 to be closer to their children in Santa Monica and Colorado. At PebbleCreek (PC), Lorraine loved her ceramics classes and the wonderful people who helped her learn how to create lovely pieces. Our PC neighbors embraced us immediately, and we attended many happy hours and met dozens of nice neighbors.

Lorraine enjoyed pajamas, scary movies, vacuum lines on carpet, her red sports car with ILVJAZZ license plate, and long walks with friends. She loved being with people, treated all as she wanted to be treated, and looked for the best trait in everyone she met.

Lorraine will be remembered at a Mass at St. Thomas Aquinas later this year.

Eberhard Lambert von Oy

Eberhard Lambert “Bert” von Oy passed away peacefully on the evening of July 10, 2023, at the age of 85.

He was born on April 26, 1938, in Morton, Wash.,to the late Ed and Margaret von Oy. He graduated from Morton High School and attended St. Martin’s college in Olympia, Wash., and the University of Washington in Seattle. In 1961 he was drafted into the United States Army during the Cuban Missile Crisis, serving until 1963.

Bert worked for The Boeing Company for 43 years in the Aerospace Division. He worked on programs such as Jetfoil, Peace Shield, and the E3A AWACS, for which he was recognized as employee of the month in June 1983.

Following his retirement in 2003, Bert and Donna made their home in the PebbleCreek Golf Community in Goodyear, Ariz. Bert loved photography and joined the Photography Club where he spearheaded several photo shoot trips around Arizona. He was active in the Genealogy Club and maintained an interest in researching his family history and ancestry. His research led him to visit several states and locations where his family had lived, including the ”Old Round Church” in Richmond, Vt., where a relative was a founding father. He and Donna traveled extensively to Europe and enjoyed cruising to exotic ports with friends and family. His many travels included visits to his family in Germany; he also enjoyed playing host to their visits in the United States. Bert was proud of reaching his lifetime goal of visiting all 50 states.

Bert loved all things musical. He enjoyed playing the piano and attending the theatre and opera. He and Donna were season ticket holders to the Issaquah Theatre and the Seattle Opera. In 2005, they became inaugural season ticket holders to the Arizona Broadway Theatre.

Bert was an avid gardener. He will be remembered for his love of landscape design and his beautiful yard! He truly was a master gardener and willingly shared his knowledge with friends and neighbors.

He will be missed by everyone who enjoyed his warm friendship, dry sense of humor, and devotion to his family and friends.

Bert is lovingly remembered by his wife of 48 years, Donna; brother Joseph von Oy; sons David (Alice), Gregory, and Jeffrey (Jamie); and his eight grandchildren, Anita, Matheu, Brenden, Shyayn, Riley, Jeramie, Kevin, and Jacob. As well, he is survived by his brother-in-laws Gerry (Hannah) and Steve (Lexine) Cook and sister-in-law Joanne Bell. Bert enjoyed the company and friendship of his extended family members including many nieces, nephews, and cousins, especially Cheryl Hart and Addie Mashkoftseff.

Bert was preceded in death by his son Charles Kristopher von Oy and brother Nick Fields.

The family asks that memorial contributions be made online to The Salvation Army.

Vince Tobin

Vincent Michael Tobin, 79, passed away peacefully at his home in Goodyear, Ariz., on July 3, 2023.

He is survived by his wife Kathy, his son Ryan, his daughter Shannon, his sisters Teresa Hackett and Kathleen Dolph, his brother-in-law Tom Dolph, his brother Bill Tobin, his sisters-in-law Katy Tobin and Dusene Tobin, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Ed and Nora Tobin, brothers Paul and Al Tobin, sister-in-law Melba Tobin, sister Louise Madden, and brothers-in-law Bill Hackett and Jim Madden.

He spent his entire career coaching football starting at the University of Missouri. After leaving Missouri, he joined the Canadian Football League. Following a six-year stint with the B.C. Lions, Vince proceeded to join the USFL. As the defensive coordinator, he helped lead them to two championships.

He next joined the NFL serving as defensive coordinator for both the Chicago Bears and the Indianapolis Colts. He was named the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals in 1996 and later finished his career with the Green Bay Packers.

The Tobins, married for 45 years, moved to PebbleCreek in 2004. Vince enjoyed participating in the Roadrunners Golf Group, golf, the Wine Club, and the Irish Club.

James (Jim) Allen Butner

Kare Bears respectfully acknowledges the passing of James (Jim) Allen Butner, Unit 39, who died on June 22, 2023, after a cardiac event. Jim was 77 years old.

Jim served in the U.S. Navy for 21 years as a Senior Chief E8. After retiring from the Navy, he was an engineer, and designed and manufactured silicon computer chips. He also taught computers in Germany for six weeks at a time.

Jim was a caregiver for his wife of 59 years, Darlene, during the past year while she battled cancer. A devoted husband and father, he and Darlene took 22 cruises, traveling the world together.

Darlene and Jim moved to PebbleCreek in 2004. Jim liked to bike ride and was a videographer and IT specialist for his friends and neighbors. Fluent in Spanish, Jim was known for his Mexican salsa recipe!

Jim is survived by his wife Darlene Marie Butner; son Rob Allen Butner, wife Janette Leigh, and their children Celene, Payton, Ashleigh, Dom and Kya; and son Michael Vernon Butner, wife Kellie Nicole, and grandchildren Coty and Cheyenne.

A Celebration of Life memorial service in PebbleCreek for Jim will be held on Sunday, July 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 16134 W. Whitton Ave, Goodyear AZ 85395 (PebbleCreek Unit 39).

Bettie Lou Jones

Bettie Lou Jones of Litchfield Park, Ariz., was called home to her Heavenly Father on June 17, 2023. Bettie was born to Avery Daniel and Alta Lee Niblett on Feb. 12, 1929, in Christopher, Ill. She was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Bettie was married to Ken Jones on May 28, 1949. Together they raised their daughter Kendra and enjoyed 74 years of their lives with each other.

Bettie was a resident of the West Valley for over 65 years and spent many of those years working side by side with her husband in his auto and business endeavors and as a secretary at Buckeye Union High School. She was a fierce competitor, accomplished in bowling and golf, and loved watching sports; especially the Phoenix Suns, Arizona Diamondbacks, and any sports her grandsons were participating in. Bettie was an excellent homemaker who loved to cook and bake and spend time with her grandsons. Her family, friends, home, sports, cooking, and her dogs throughout the years were among the things that brought her the most joy. She was active in The Church at Litchfield Park.

She is survived by her husband, Ken Jones; daughter, Kendra (Larry) Gable; sister, Billie VanZandt; grandsons, Nathan (Olga) Gable, Jacob (Devin) Gable, Loren (Kylie) Gable; and 14 great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Margaret, Howard, Mildred, Ronald, and Donald.

Funeral services will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 1002 E. Eason Ave, Buckeye, AZ 85326 on June 28, 2023. There will be a viewing at 10 a.m. with services to follow at 11 a.m. The interment will be immediately after at the Louis B. Hazelton Memorial Cemetery in Buckeye, Ariz.

Connie Mirkovich

On June 10, 2023, Connie Mirkovich peacefully passed away at the age of 82. The glue that held the family together was born in Rapid City, S.D. Her first years were spent with her grandparents who spoiled her, but instilled in her a love for learning. When she went to school, she was one of the smartest in her class. This continued throughout life until the very end. Her high school days were full of learning and happiness.

She traveled to University of Denver, where she excelled and obtained a bachelor’s degree. During her time in college, she joined the Kappa Delta sorority, where she was very active. While in college, she met her husband Michael, to whom she was married for 59 fulfilled years. When she and Michael retired, they spent many years traveling the world. They traveled to such places as Europe, Hawaii, Alaska, Tahiti, Australia, and New Zealand. She fell in love with New Zealand, and it was one of her fondest places in the world. She was passionate about quilting, and was instrumental in forming the quilting club at PebbleCreek.

Connie is survived by her husband Michael, son Mark, granddaughter Micha, two brothers, and many nieces and nephews. She will be missed by family and the many friends she made during her life.

David Shenton

Born in Lockport, N.Y., on Aug. 28, 1944, to James and Elizabeth Shenton, David Shenton began his life’s journey growing up in the family home with his brother Richard. He attended Cornell University and University of Buffalo attaining his law degree. He moved to Seattle and practiced law in Washington state. After retiring, David moved to PebbleCreek in Goodyear, Ariz. He is survived by his wife Sheryl; his daughters and sons-in-law Michelle and Bob, Kim and Ryan; his son James; his granddaughters Rebecca, Nichola and Marisa; and his grandson Philip. As well, he is survived by his brother Richard and his sister-in-law Terry.

David was blessed to have a wonderful, caring family. He was able to travel and explore new places while taking many family vacations with them. David’s many interests included the trumpet and piano, sailing, golfing, and skiing. He loved classical music and enjoyed attending symphonies. Although David experienced many health issues, up until three years ago he was able to rebound from them and have a healthy and happy quality of life. David always appreciated each day and lived life to the fullest. He had remarkable strength and tenacity in facing and meeting his struggles. We take comfort in knowing that David is at peace with our heavenly Father.

Nancy E. Dusenbery

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Nancy E. Dusenbery, a doting wife, loving mother, and very special Grandma and GiGi, on May 1, 2023. Bob and Nancy moved to PebbleCreek in 1999. They celebrated 65 years of marriage.

Nancy is survived by her husband Bob Dusenbery, son Kirk Dusenbery, and daughter Yvonne (Dusenbery) Lemke, as well as two granddaughters, Heather Lemke and Haley (Lemke) Rauscher. It would not be the same if we did not mention her four great-grandsons, AJ Lemke, Asher Lemke, Axton Lemke, and Macklyn Rauscher, whom she loved dearly and they will miss their GiGi greatly.

Nancy was very involved in the PebbleCreek community. She worked in the Pro Shop at Tuscany Falls for several years. She loved golf and was a member of the Tuesday 18-Holers and Wednesday Wackers. She also enjoyed playing mah jongg with her friends. Everyone loved Nancy, and her friends often referred to her as Fancy Nancy. She was one classy lady who left a footprint on all of our hearts.

Service arrangements will be given at a later date.

Jerome Sims

Jerome Sims Sr. passed away unexpectedly following outpatient surgery on Friday, April 28, 2023 at John C. Lincoln Hospital in Phoenix, Ariz. He was born the twelfth child of thirteen to Ollie and Eugene Sims Sr. in Detroit, Mich., on Sept. 21, 1939. He attended Detroit Public Schools and graduated from Northern High School in 1957. Jerome was proud to have had many jobs starting at age 8 selling eggs off the back of a pickup truck working with a crew of young men two to three times his age. He worked at the U.S. Postal Service, Standard Oil Company, obtained a State of Michigan Liquor Control License and worked as a Manufacturer’s Representative and Salesperson for three Wine Distributors.

He later transitioned into the insurance industry, earning his certification and license as a Property & Casualty and Life Insurance Sales professional. He began his insurance career with Metropolitan Mutual Insurance and was later recruited to work for AAA Insurance of Michigan. He remained with AAA of Michigan until his retirement 30 years later as a General Sales Agent with his own agency.

Jerome met and fell in love with Bonita (Bonnie) Benton on June 17, 1967. They enjoyed 56 years of marriage. From this union were born Jerome II in 1969 and Carmen Alicia in 1973. Jerome wore many titles: husband, brother, son, uncle, cousin, coach, friend, and mentor.

Jerome and Bonita relocated to Arizona in 1995 and were early buyers in the PebbleCreek community. He held leadership positions in many PebbleCreek organizations and clubs. He was particularly proud of being the founder of the PebbleCreek Wii Bowling League and his team the “Striking Eagles.”

On April 28, Jerome made his transition and now he is able to do his greatest work. He leaves behind family and friends who will forever cherish his memory and his unforgettable spirit including his wife, Bonita Lynn Sims; his children Jerome Sims II (Sharee) and Carmen Sutherlin (Walter); grandchildren Jerome Sims III, Jada Sims, Ethan Sutherlin, and Emery Sutherlin; sisters Leola Crittendon and Louise Anderson; and countless extended family, including many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Ellsmore (Al) Ware Vence

Ellsmore (Al) Ware Vence, 83, passed away peacefully with his wife Linda next to him in the Hospice of the Valley on April 26, 2023. His children Kim and Chris and their spouses were also in constant attendance.

Al was born on July 18, 1939, in Bridgeton City, N.J. He was the son of the late Robert Lawrence Vence and Ruth Ellen Ware.

Al was an outstanding student and graduated from Claymont High School at the age of 16, after which he entered the Air Force. He met his wife Carol Jean (Huber) Vence in Belleville, Ill., during his time in the Air Force. After serving, he worked for Honeywell Information Systems from 1970-72 as District Manager of Field Engineers in Minneapolis, Minn., and moved to Phoenix, Ariz., where he managed Honeywell’s final system tests and product quality for the total factory output until 1978.

During that time, he earned a B.S. in Mathematics from Grand Canyon College (1978). Al then moved to Sunnyvale, Calif., to work for Amdahl Corporation, where he worked until his retirement in 2000. Al and Carol had two children, Kimberly (Kim) Moore and Christopher (Chris) Vence, who reside in California with their respective families. Kim married Jeff Moore and they have three beautiful girls: Christina, Bailey, and Jennifer. Chris married Kim Wolf, a close friend since high school.

Al took pride and joy in his family, and when he wasn’t at work he could be found attending and refereeing his kids’ soccer games and helping with homework. He also joined the Morgan Hill Lodge Masons in 1985 for his daughter who was in Rainbow Girls, another Masonic organization.

In 2005 he retired to PebbleCreek, in Goodyear, Ariz., with his wife Carol. In retirement they traveled extensively and both became Bridge “masters.” Unfortunately, after 45 years of marriage, Carol passed away in 2010 from pancreatic cancer.

In 2012 Al began to travel again, and in 2014 met his wife Linda Jane Linthicum in Cape Town, South Africa. Sitting down next to her on a bus tour to a private game reserve, he found they were both from Arizona, with common interests. They were married Nov. 2, 2014, and continued traveling around the world.

Al enjoyed traveling, visiting his family in California, golf, billiards, photography, opera and country music, reading, astronomy, chess, and tried many other things like drawing, Spanish, dancing, etc. In 2018, he and Linda adopted two Havanese puppies, who were excellent companions during Covid-19.

Al is survived by his wife Linda Jane Linthicum, his siblings Robert Lawrence Vence II and Judy Kates, his children Kimberly Moore and Christopher Vence, and his grandchildren Christina, Bailey, and Jennifer Moore.

Richard Wayne Sherwood

Rick was born Aug. 16, 1945, in Bremerton, Wash., to Beryl and Ann Sherwood. As a child, he developed his love of sports; first baseball and fishing, then in high school he added basketball. Midway through his sophomore year, his dad received an opportunity to work at Subic Bay Naval Station in the Philippines, and Rick left Bremerton (and his long-time friends at Central Kitsap High School) to begin a 5-year adventure in the Far East with new friends at George Dewey High School and later Santo Tomas University in Manila.

With war in the Far East, he returned to the U.S. and enlisted in the Army as a medic. He was selected for advanced training at Fitzsimons Army Hospital in Colorado, then it was off to Vietnam. Surviving his year in Vietnam and returning to Washington, he enrolled in a new medical program for returning corpsmen with advanced training at the University of Washington: the MEDEX program (now Physician Assistant). It was a career that he thoroughly enjoyed at Group Health Coop and later Kaiser Permanente, retiring after 34 years.

In 1971 while looking across a dance floor, he spotted the woman whom he would spend the rest of his life with, Jan. Together in the summers they traveled to national parks, backpacked Washington trails, and fished rivers and lakes. In winters, they skied and went dog sledding. Rick’s sports changed from baseball to softball and added tennis and golf. After retiring, Rick and Jan began traveling overseas: Central and South America, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Africa. Each country held more adventures, interesting people to meet, and wonders to see.

Opting for year-round summer, in 2011 Rick and Jan built a winter home at PebbleCreek. Winters now were golfing and watching spring training baseball, and summers were golfing and salmon fishing back in Redmond, Wash.

Rick lived life to the fullest, finding joy in each day. He passed away April 22, 2023. He was preceded in death by his parents Beryl and Ann, and his oldest brother James. He will be missed by his devoted wife Jan, nephews James Sherwood (Nevada), Kevin and Mark Gallagher (Washington), Melissa Weir (Colorado), and Amanda Redding (Texas), and cousins Ken and Don French and Debbie Blucher (Washington), Washington Double Eagle and Arizona Bunker Boys golfers, plus many life-long friends.

Darren Paul Johnson

Darren Paul Johnson, 53, of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away on April 14, 2023. Darren was born in Plymouth, Mass., on Sept. 24, 1969, to Paul and Judy Johnson of Goodyear, Ariz.

Darren graduated from North Reading High School in North Reading, Mass., with the class of 1988 where he lettered in golf and hockey. He received the most valuable player award for golf in his senior year. He always played right-handed as a lefty.

Darren attended Essex Agriculture School in Danvers, Mass., before becoming the Golf Course Superintendent at Cedar Glen Golf Club in Saugus, Mass., for 10 years. He moved to Goodyear, Ariz., in 2006 and worked for 12 years as the Golf Course Superintendent at Eagle’s Nest Golf Club in PebbleCreek under the director of Golf Operations Paul McGinnis, past president of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America.

Darren was a member of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of New England and the Cactus and Pines Golf Course Superintendents Association of Arizona.

He was an avid sports fan and followed every move his beloved Boston Bruins hockey team made. He was so happy with their record this year.

He is survived by his parents Paul and Judy Johnson, his brother Michael, wife Lisa, niece Kaia, and nephew Bradley of Topsfield, Mass., his aunt, uncle, and many cousins along with friends and buddies on the North Shore area of Massachusetts.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in Massachusetts.

Robert Anthony Voccola

Robert Anthony Voccola passed away on April 8, 2023. Robert was a generous, dedicated, faithful, and loving husband, father, and Papa.

He is survived by his devoted wife Jacqueline. In addition to the love of his life, Jackie, he is survived by his daughter Diana Voccola, and her children Harley Lynn Brunetti and her husband Stephen, Marc Robert Ventura, Lucas Leonel Ventura, and Thea Morgan Ventura, his son Robert Voccola and his children Anthony Joseph and Kaitlin Rose Voccola.

Survivors also include Jackie’s brother Ed Oliver and his wife Deb, their children Brian Oliver and Christie Terranova and her husband Josh, and their daughter Summer Rose Terranova.

Robert joined the United States Army after high school and served from 1959 to 1967 on active duty including tours in Korea, Europe, and Vietnam. He saw combat as a helicopter crew chief/door gunner in Vietnam with the First Air Cavalry Division where he earned several ribbons and medals.

After serving his country, Robert went on to serve his community by joining the Stratford Police Department where he served in all ranks and divisions with honor and dignity for 31 years before retiring with the rank of Captain.

Immediately after retiring from the Stratford Police Department, Robert was chosen, after a national search, to lead the Shelton Connecticut Police Department into the 21st century. He served the City of Shelton as the Chief of Police from 1999 until his retirement in 2006.

He was a proud life member and distinguished service officer with the VFW POST 6310 in Tolleson, Ariz.

After retiring Robert moved with his wife Jackie to Goodyear, Ariz., where he lived until his passing.

Services will take place on July 1, 2023, at 11 a.m., at the State Veterans Cemetery, 317 Bow Lane, Middletown, Conn.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the VFW POST 6310 (building fund), PO Box 1178, Tolleson, AZ 85353.

Bernard Ho

It is with great sadness that we announce that our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Bernard Ho, passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack on March 30, 2023, at the age of 72 in Goodyear, Ariz. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 45 years, Diana, his daughter Amy, and son Colin. Bernard was fortunate to welcome his newborn grandson, Orion, into the world the day before his passing.

Bernard was born Oct. 20, 1950. He received his BS in Optical Engineering in China and completed his MS in Materials Science at the University of Southern California. He pursued a long career in Semiconductor Engineering at National Semiconductor, Motorola, Freescale, and Cree. He resided in Arizona for over 26 years from 1993-1998 and from 2002 until his passing. He and Diana joined the PebbleCreek community in 2021 and Bernard thoroughly enjoyed the good life there and considered it his slice of heaven.

In addition to his lifelong love of music, Bernard enjoyed sailing on cruises around the world, staying on top of the stock market, and keeping active through tai chi, swimming, golfing, and biking. His passion for engineering spanned far beyond his career; after he retired he enjoyed volunteering at STEM workshops for local students at the Arizona Science Lab and inspiring the next generation of future engineers. While Bernard left us far too soon, his impact in our hearts and lives will be felt for years to come.

Bernard was a pragmatic, tenacious, and playful man who loved life. Per his wishes, no funeral services will be held. In lieu of flowers, charitable donations may be made to support the Arizona Science Lab, a non-profit organization near and dear to Bernard’s heart, at www.gofundme.com/f/bernard-ho.

Elizabeth “Beth” Kay (Bowers) Hadden

Our beloved Wife, Mother, Sister, Grandmother, and Great-Grandmother, Elizabeth “Beth” Kay (Bowers) Hadden, passed away on March 30, 2023, at the young age of 83, in Mesa, Ariz., after a long battle with Raynaud’s Syndrome and Scleroderma.

Elizabeth was born on April 20, 1939, in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late James and Arlene Bowers. She was the middle of three siblings, older sister Constance, and younger brother James, who always called her ‘Bethy.’

Beth married Ray Hadden on Oct. 24, 1959, and from that moment on, her feet never touched the ground. Beth and Ray went on to eventually move 28 times, encompassing a good part of the United States, as well as West Africa, Aruba, Holland, and Saudi Arabia. They explored more countries than we have room to list. During all those moves, Beth lovingly raised three girls, Christine, Kimberley, and Jeanine. She never made it to college, but she always read whatever she could get her hands on and studied up on each destination by reading and pouring over the history and culture of each place, making sure that the girls saw and absorbed the full experience. By self-education, she probably knew more about history and the world than most professors. Beth was consumed by wanderlust and lived her dream.

Beth was just an amazing woman. Aside from all the moving and travels, her career as a wife and mother was not all she accomplished. Beth’s first job was as a Doctor’s Assistant and from there, she went on to perform a myriad of jobs. She was at times a Secretary, a Saleswoman, and worked for the Campus Crusade for Christ. However, her crowning achievement was when she went to work and became a Missionary, for the ‘Jesus Film Project’ in the capacity of Photo Librarian.

Beth and Ray eventually retired and moved to PebbleCreek in Goodyear, Ariz., where they found a place that truly became their home. Beth involved herself with Bible Study, Kare Bears, dancing, singing, and acting. Everybody that met her loved her, and all her friends were really family.

Elizabeth was many things, as well as incredibly courageous, brave, beautiful, and giving. And she was our Wife and Mother!

Elizabeth is survived by her ever-loving husband Ray; her three girls, Christine of Arizona, Kimberley (Britt) of Washington, and Jeanine (Philip) of Texas; three grandchildren, Scott (Mindy), Nicole (Sydni), and Sean; three great-grandchildren, Braxton, Emma, and Rowan; sister Constance of Arizona; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, her brother, James Bowers, preceded her in death.

Please join Beth’s family on Sunday, April 30, 2023, at 10:30 a.m., for a Celebration of Life at PebbleCreek Community Church, Eagle’s Nest Ballroom, 3645 Club House Drive, Goodyear, AZ 85395.
www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/11230400

Richard Weddle

Richard Weddle of Goodyear, Ariz., 75, passed away on March 8, 2023, of heart failure. He will be greatly missed.

Richard was born in Des Moines, Iowa, and lived in 12 different states before retiring to Arizona. He was a resident of PebbleCreek since 2015. He loved living in Arizona every day. He was an avid fitness enthusiast. He was always willing to coach and encourage others to set up a fitness plan.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Maura, and several nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a future date.

 

 

 

Richard (Rick) Carlson

Richard (Rick) Carlson passed away peacefully on March 3, 2023. Rick was born in Montclair, N.J., to Carl “Allen” and Betty Carlson. Rick had two children (Patrick and Kelly) with former spouse Terry and became a stepfather to two children with wife Susan (Tara and Bryan). Rick was a loving son, brother, father, stepfather, grandfather of eight, uncle, son-in-law, and brother-in-law. Rick attended Scottsdale Navajo Elementary, Scottsdale High School, and Arizona State University. As a young boy, Rick grew up in Verona, N.J. He and his family came to Arizona around 1960.

Rick started a long banking career at the Valley National Bank of Arizona in 1969 and held various managerial positions. Rick ended his banking career in 1998 at Bank One as a Senior Vice President and Executive Director and retired after 29 years in banking. After, he owned/operated a decorative glass business (closed during the economic downturn) and then worked at the Earnhardt Honda dealership in Avondale. He made many friends during his work career and appreciated every one of them.

Rick is survived by his wife of 35 years, Susan; children Patrick, Kelly, Tara, and Bryan; and grandchildren Samantha, Phoenix, Ava, Vincent, Vivian, Lilly, Natalie, and Hayden. He was preceded in death by his parents Allen and Betty, brothers Dave and Jeff, and sisters Debbie and Cynthia. Other close Carlson/Shepard relatives include Grandmother Wilma Shepard, Uncle Ken Shepard, Aunt Edith (Carlson) Schmied and Uncle Orville Schmied, Uncle Arthur Carlson and Aunt Ginnie Carlson, Aunt Louise (Carlson) Pearson and Uncle Paul Pearson, and other family members.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the American Lung Association or Faith Hospice of Arizona.

Barbara “Lee” Lanan

Barbara “Lee” Lanan passed away on Feb. 28, 2023, in her home in Gilbert, Ariz. Lee had lived in PebbleCreek for 16 years before moving to Gilbert to be closer to her daughter. Lee was born in Norristown, Pa. She went to college and became a physical education teacher. After marrying the love of her life, Ken, they set out on a beautiful adventurous life in the U.S. Air Force. After traveling the world with the Air Force, they settled in southern California. Lee taught Special Education students as well as coached girls’ high school softball and tennis. They then moved to PebbleCreek in 2004.

Lee was a sports fanatic. She played doubles tennis until her knees gave out and then she shifted to competitive golf. She played on the Lady Niners at PebbleCreek until her health would not let her play anymore. Through it all, her love of sports never wavered.

Lee and Ken had two girls, Renee and Colleen. Those two girls gave them eight grandchildren, Jennifer, Michael, Shannon, Joseph, Cassandra, Emily, Austin, and Makayla. She was also blessed with five great-grandchildren! Madalyn, Reagan, Harvey, Novah, and Harrison (her Munchkins).

Lee was always smiling and happy. Lee leaves this world a better place for having lived in it. She leaves a legacy of passion; for life, her world of friends, beloved family, and most of all, her Lord Jesus Christ. She loved the Lord, her family, and her country. She will forever be in our hearts.

Roberto Medina

Roberto Medina of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away Feb. 25, 2023. He was born July 13, 1930, in San Antonio, Texas, to Hidalgo and Josefina (nee Montenegro) Medina. He is survived by his wife, Roberta and stepsons Byron Nelson and Lamont Lockhart.

Roberto was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army. He served for 27 years as a SFC Special Forces, and fought in Korea and Vietnam (four tours of duty!) as a Green Beret (101st Airborne Division). After retiring from the military, he continued to serve for another 20 years with the Corp of Engineers in Shafter, Hawaii. While in the military, he was awarded the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, CIB, VSM, GCMDL (5th award), AFEM, RN HM (2nd class), and JSCM.

Roberto was a loving husband and stepfather. He enjoyed spending time with his family. Roberto and Roberta moved to PebbleCreek in 1996 and watched the community grow to what it is today. He was a founding member of “Just Folks” and enjoyed the many friends he made over the years.

A Celebration of Life will be held and interment will take place at a later date at the VA cemetery in Kaneohe, Hawaii—just a few miles away from his prior home.

Karl Schmit

Karl Schmit of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away Feb. 24, 2023, at the age of 90. He was born Oct. 12, 1932, in Chicago, Ill., to George and Catherine (Gollrad) Schmit. He was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Dolores M. Schmit. He is survived by his sons Mark and Todd Schmit.

Karl grew up in Chicago and graduated from St. George’s High School. He received a Bachelor’s Degree from Illinois Benedictine College, and a Master’s Degree from Northern Illinois University. While in Illinois, Karl became a Captain in the United States Air Force and Reserves. He married Dolores in 1969 and they raised their two sons in Arlington Heights, Ill. Karl taught math and became principal at Goethe Elementary School in Chicago. In 1998, Karl and Dolores retired to Goodyear, Ariz. (PebbleCreek), and were very active in the community and church and volunteered with St. Vincent DePaul. Shortly after Dolores passed away in 2019, Karl moved to Robson Reserve and stayed until 2022. From 2022 until his passing, Karl lived at Park Senior Villas.

Karl was known as an extremely well-disciplined man. He gave his all to anything he was involved in, and that included his wife and children’s activities. But he was also known as a “ham.” When he was on stage acting, he would always leave the audience in tears of laughter. If he wasn’t on stage, he was watching or listening to old musicals. In his free time, he enjoyed playing tennis, watching Westerns, riding his Harley Davidson, and working on puzzles. He also collected coins and had a large collection of eagle statues.

Karl was, above all, a family man. He devoted himself to his family. He supported them in all their endeavors and loved spending time with them. They went on family cruises and cross country trips, and spent time together on simple things like yard work and grilling ribs in the backyard.

Karl was the type of person who put the needs of others before his own. He was generous, kind, and caring and made sure that everyone who he cared about was fully taken care of—no matter what their needs were. He encouraged his sons to follow their passions in life. He celebrated with them when they succeeded and helped pick them back up without judgment when they failed.

Services were under the direction of Thompson Funeral Chapel.

Charles Franklin Hansen

Charles Franklin Hansen departed this world on Feb. 13, 2023, at his home in Goodyear, Ariz. Charlie (Chas or Chuck as he was known to friends) was born in Seattle to Martin and Edna Hansen, graduating from Garfield High school and Central Washington University where he played baseball and was offered a spot on a minor league team. He married twice; first to Judy Paulson in 1956, bringing his daughter Debbie into the world, and then to Marjorie Neas in 1961, bringing son Martin and daughter Paige into the world.

He was a member at Inglewood Country Club in Kenmore, Wash., for more than 50 years and was devoted to the game of golf where he built a large circle of his closest friends. Charlie worked as a regional liquor sales manager covering the western states for the majority of his career. He was ubiquitously known as “Good time Charlie,” always wearing a smile on his face and was quick to share a quip, comeback, or joke. In his spare time he enjoyed gardening at home, watching sports on TV, keeping a Master’s-worthy pristine lawn, and ever-fighting the moles Caddyshack style, as well as watching new and old war movies. The consummate athlete, Charlie also belonged for a time to a bowling league where he would regularly throw strikes. He also served a brief stint in the merchant marines as a line cook.

In his retirement years, he and wife Marji snowbirded between Kenmore, Wash., and Goodyear, Ariz., where he was a devoted Mariners fan with spring training season tickets as well as a Seahawks fan. He was a member of the PebbleCreek Golf Course in Goodyear for over 10 years.

Charlie was a playful, funny, charismatic, and caring human being inside and out with a heart of gold. He will be missed by many and forever in our hearts.

He is survived by daughter Debbie Radcliff, son Martin Hansen, daughter Paige Donnelly, and four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his brother Arnie Hansen, sister Kathie Hardin, and his mother and father.

Private inurnment will take place at Sunset Hills Memorial Park in Bellevue, Wash.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation.

Jack Dagro

Jack Dagro, 86, passed away Feb. 11, 2023, at his home in Goodyear, Ariz.

He was born Aug. 19, 1936, in Chicago, Ill., where he attended high school, then worked for a short time before entering the U.S. Army. Jack earned an honorable discharge after serving with a unit in Germany.

He is survived by his wife of 47 years, JoAnn Dagro; a son, James Dagro; a daughter, Cynthia Alongi, and a half sister, Caryl Dagro. He is preceded in death by his father, Joseph Dagro; his mother, Christine Kahler Campbell, and his stepmother, Vera Dagro.

Although he had several nieces and nephews, he was “Uncle Jack” to just about every member of his extended family, mainly because he was the very model of what an uncle should be.

His professional career included several years with Victor Comptometer Co in Illinois and in Northern California selling office equipment for Victor. He eventually transitioned to real estate, becoming a loan agent and later an underwriter in Northern California. He retired in 1995 and soon after moved with his wife, JoAnn, from California to Goodyear.

Jack will be lovingly remembered for his hearty laugh and his amazing trivia knowledge, especially when it came to old movies and all-but-forgotten actors. It was often joked that he could probably name the third chorus line dancer from the left in just about any 90-year-old classic.

Jack was a longtime member of the PebbleCreek Men’s Golf Club, and an accomplished player well into his 80s.

The family will always cherish Jack, celebrate his memory, and strive to honor his most outstanding qualities.

No services are planned. Arrangements are under the direction of Thompson Funeral Chapel in Goodyear.

Elbert Phillips

Mr. Elbert Phillips, 84, of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away Feb. 10, 2023. He was born May 11, 1938, in San Diego, Calif., to Aaron and Winona (nee Ward) Phillips. He was a veteran of the United States Army.

A visitation was held Saturday, Feb. 25 at Thompson Funeral Chapel. His final resting place will be at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery in San Diego, Calif.

 

 

 

Thomas Morris

Thomas “Tom” Logan Morris, 81, of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away on Feb. 2, 2023, due to complications of Alzheimer’s, surrounded by his loving family. Tom was an easy-going and good-natured man who enjoyed family and made friends wherever he went, sharing stories/laughter with those he met. Tom was born March 5, 1941, in Chinook, Mont., the son of Albert and Pearl (Kessel) Morris. He was schooled in Chinook, graduation in 1959. He served in the Air Force Reserves. In 1961 he began a 37-year career with the JC Penney Company.

In 1962, Tom married Loretta Tyson in Kalispell, Mont., and they had four children. They lived in five states during his career with the longest in Grand Forks, N.D. Upon retirement in 1998, they moved to Arizona. Tom was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather and loved spending time with family. He had a special relationship with each of his grandchildren. Tom enjoyed skiing, golfing, hiking, traveling, rodeos, and watching his favorite sports teams (Nebraska Cornhuskers football and UND hockey). Two of his most memorable activities were golfing with his son-in-laws and grandsons and spending eight summers in retirement building fences in Montana with his brother-in-law, John.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Don and Ralph, and family members Helen Morris, Howard Cowan, and Doug Morris. He is survived by his wife and children: Charlene (Jamie) Kuntz, Grand Forks, N.D.; Teena (John) Swangler, Maple Grove, Minn.; Chad Morris, Muscatine, Iowa; and Kathy (Todd) Braunschweig, Fargo, N.D.; grandchildren: Ryan (Vanessa) Kuntz, Hayley Kuntz, Caitlin Kuntz, Krista (Jose) Chapa, Daniel Swangler, Grayson Morris, Cody Braunschweig, and Taylor Braunschweig; great-siblings Betty Cowan and Ben (Faye) Morris; and sister-in-law Dee Morris. He is also survived by Loretta’s family, whom he had a special relationship with, considering them as his own.

We’d like to thank all of the staff at Hacienda Del Rey and Hospice of the Valley for such good care. Donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

Jerry Morris

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Jerry Morris on Jan. 31. He was Jerry to his friends, but to his family he was Dad, Papa Jerry, Uncle, or Sweetheart. It seems unfathomable to describe the inspiration he was and the love that we feel for him in mere words on paper. From growing up in Washington State to living, working, and traveling all over the world, Jerry lived a full and beautiful life, and was the proud father of three children.

His oldest son Craig sadly left this world too soon, after a valiant battle with cancer. Christy, who is his only daughter, recently moved to Arizona to embark on a new career, and to live closer to her dad. Jerry was honored that she chose to move closer to him, and very pleased to see what an incredible woman his little girl had become (those who knew Jerry, know he used “pleased or very pleased” to express satisfaction, happiness, pride, or as an overall stamp of approval). Last but not least is his youngest son, Steven. Their zip codes weren’t close, and they weren’t big on phone calls or texts, but their father/son bond didn’t require it. They chose to look at their connection in terms of quality/not quantity of time shared, and how they chose to use it. They’ve been co-pilots on airplanes, road warriors on their motorcycles, and co-navigators for both cross country road trips and for the twists, turns, and detours they encountered on life’s bumpy road to finding true love and happiness.

Jerry found “true love and happiness” with Helen, and for over a decade they loved each other deeply, traveled the world, danced the night away at community dances, enjoyed local theatre performances, took in the scenery on long motorcycle rides … the list goes on. They lived between Michigan and Arizona with the shared goal of loving each other, living their best life together, and living each day to the fullest. They both did that every day until Jan. 31st when he was unexpectedly taken from us.

In the beautiful collage of Jerry’s life, we can’t forget his positive outlook, quick wit, and broad smile that brightened a room. He cherished his motorcycle rides with old friends, had boundless energy on the pickleball court, and prioritized making trips to Kansas City to spend time with his grandsons (and Nikki) every chance he got.

Jerry is pre-deceased by his son Craig, and is survived by his daughter Christy, son Steven (Melissa), Helen (loving companion), Patricia (ex-wife, dear friend, and mother of his children), daughter-in-law Nikki, grandsons Noah and Adam, and countless family members and friends who meant a lot to him including Helen’s family: daughter Shelli (Jim), granddaughter Monica (Jim), and all his Michigan great-grandchildren who all loved him very much.

Instead of saying good-bye, we prefer to think he rode off into the sunset to hang out with Craig. Until we are together again, we will work on living “our best lives” and will make certain his legacy lives on.

To Jerry: You will forever be missed and will continue to live on in our hearts.

Please note: Jerry requested that no services be held.

Mary Katherine Anderson

Mary Katherine Anderson was born in Waco, Texas, on Oct. 27, 1944. She graduated from Waco High in 1962 and married Millard Anderson in Waco on Aug. 22, 1964.

She graduated from SMU with a degree in Elementary Education in May 1966. She was a mother of four children, a military wife, a law enforcement wife, and a parochial school teacher.

In retirement, when they weren’t spending time with grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she and Millard traveled across the country and around the world having many adventures—an African safari, white water rafting, snowmobiling, hot air ballooning, jet skiing, snorkeling, and exploring ancient ruins in Mexico, Egypt, Greece, Turkey, Israel and Jordan. And they spent three unforgettable years on the glorious Sonoma Coast. Over a span of 40 years, her constant companions were her beloved dachshunds.

Mary Katherine and Millard moved to PebbleCreek in 2015. She enjoyed the great weather, sitting by the pool, playing bridge, mah jongg, and bocce ball. She continued her life of service to the Church, volunteering many hours each week at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church and serving on the Parish Council.

She passed away peacefully and gracefully on Jan. 30, 2023. A Funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Jerome Catholic Church in Waco on March 25 and her ashes were laid to rest in Oakwood Cemetery next to her parents and grandparents.

She is survived by her husband; her children Margaret (Dave), Kathy (John), Carol, and Millard (Jennifer); her grandchildren Charlie, Bubba, Emmy, Hannah (Joe), Bo, Buzz, Camille, Melanie, and Molly; her great-grandchildren Price, Preston, Blake, and Baker; and numerous other family members and friends who mourn her and miss her irreplaceable presence in their lives. Memorials can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Hilary Garrison Coltman

Hilary Garrison Coltman, 70, of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away peacefully in her home on Jan. 26, 2023.

She was born on Jan. 15, 1953, in Calcutta, India, where her parents and two younger siblings lived until relocating back to the United States in 1958. The family moved three years later to Palo Alto, Calif., where they lived for the next 18 years.

Upon graduation of high school, Hilary attended UC Berkeley and received her degree in Sociology. She went on to obtain her RN designation, and subsequently began work with Merck Pharmaceuticals where she embarked on a 20+ year career in the Pharma industry. In 2012, she moved to Cathedral City, Calif., to be closer to her father where she worked for Hospice of the Desert. After his passing in 2013, she moved to the PebbleCreek community in Goodyear in 2014.

Hilary had a passion for volunteer work, travel, and animals. Her volunteer work included acting as treasurer for the Arizona chapter of the National T.T.T. Society—an organization dedicated to raising money for under-privileged teenage girls to attend summer camp. She served as a volunteer for Honor House—a non-profit dedicated to helping veterans transition from military to civilian life where she coordinated the collection and delivery of numerous household items and furniture for the veterans and their families. Additionally, she volunteered as a Unit Coordinator for the PebbleCreek Kare Bears House helping residents with their medical equipment and appointment needs as well as serving on the board of directors for the community animal rescue organization, The Pet Companions Club of PebbleCreek. It was through this organization that she found her two current Chihuahuas, Peanut and Bingo, who she loved to spoil.

Her love of travel was sparked at the age of 16 when her parents and three siblings started taking annual cruises. This passion for travel continued throughout her life. She especially loved taking an annual Windstar cruise between Europe and the U.S., with either her father or a friend, which allowed her to spend many days at sea, a passage which she found to be peaceful and restorative.

Hilary is predeceased by her mother, Viola, and father, Kyle. She is survived by her three siblings: Kyle Jr., Scott, and Lucy; nephew and nieces: Chase, Alexandra, and Lauren; her aunt, Shirley; and cousins: Barbara, Craig, and Jaymi. The family will hold a private Celebration of Life service in the coming months. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to any of the following organizations that she cared about so deeply:
* National T.T.T. Society: www.nationaltttsociety.org (see both of the Arizona camps)
* Honor House: www.thehonorhouse.org
* The Pet Companions Club of PebbleCreek: The Pet Companions Club of PebbleCreek, POB 6106, Goodyear, AZ 85338-0619

Robert Charles Wiley

Robert Charles Wiley, commonly known as Charlie, entered this world in Yakima, Wash., a suburb of Wiley City on May 15, 1941. His early years were spent on one of the three Wiley family ranches that were homesteaded in the late 1800s.

As a youngster he rode his horse to school and tied it to a tree across from the school. After graduating from high school he recognized that ranching was not his thing and set his path in another direction.

Charlie graduated from Central Washington State and taught fifth grade in the Yakima area. He married his wife Mary in 1965, they had three children, Kevin Charles, Stephen Kenneth, and Kristin Annette.

While raising his young family he went on to obtain his Ph.D. in 1973 from Oregon State University. Upon obtaining his Ph.D. he obtained a position at Ball State University, in Muncie, Ind. He was not destined to stay in Indiana. Shortly, Arizona State University offered him the position to head-up their early childhood education department. He accepted and off the family went to Tempe, Ariz. Later he secured a position at the Arizona State Department of Education and continued to teach at ASU and the University of Phoenix.

Mary and Charlie started to prepare for Charlie’s retirement by moving to PebbleCreek, in Goodyear, Ariz., in 2001. He retired from the Department of State in 2002 as Director of Teacher Certification and to take care of Mary, who subsequently passed away in 2003.

Charlie adjusted to retired life in PebbleCreek by joining the Wood Carvers Club, Men’s Nine Holers Golf, PebbleCreek Wine Club, volunteering at the Kare Bears House, and meeting Frances/Fran. They were married on Feb. 18, 2007, and together they enjoyed 16 1/2 years traveling to exotic places and socializing with friends and family.

Charlie leaves behind his three children, son-in-law Jason Gerrard, daughters-in-law Lori and Amber, grandchildren Michael and Connor, their spouses Kara and Amy, Emma and Nathan, great-grandchildren Ayden, Benjamin, and Samuel, and stepsons Jeffrey and Burton.

Our dear beloved Charlie left us on Tuesday, Dec. 27 at 11:30 a.m. while sleeping.

Lynn R. Knudsen

Lynn Knudsen passed away Dec. 24, 2022, in Goodyear, Ariz. He was a native of Provo, Utah, before moving to PebbleCreek in 2003.

He received his early education in Provo. Following graduation from high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II. He later returned to Provo and attended BYU before transferring to University of Denver where he graduated with a B.A. in Business Administration.

He began his career in the oil and gas industry in the Los Angeles area and later established Knudsen Oil and Propane in Utah. He served as president of the Utah L.P. Gas Association and remained active in the industry until retirement in 1989.

He was preceded in death by his wife Coleen and daughter Kristin. In 1999 he married Carol Douglas. They began splitting their time traveling and living in Provo and PebbleCreek. While living in PebbleCreek he was active in golf, bocce, and billiards and forged many close relationships with friends.

He is survived by his wife Carol, son Brent Knudsen, daughter Kim Hunter, stepsons Mark Douglas, Kirk Douglas, and Tony Douglas, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A viewing at Berg Mortuary in Provo was followed by a graveside service and dinner at Riverside Country Club for family and attendees.

John Robert Flynn

John Robert Flynn, age 80, passed away on Dec. 12, 2022. He is survived by his wife, Carmel; sons Sean (Tricia) of Phoenix and K.C. (Lisa) of Henderson, Nev.; grandchildren Kellen, Riley, Aidan, and Cooper; and siblings Jean Mitchell of Portland and Kathleen Cunningham of Sacramento. He is predeceased by his brother, Jim. John also has 39 nieces and nephews. He lived in Portland and Milwaukie, Ore., until 2004, then moved to PebbleCreek in Goodyear, Ariz.

John was born March 26, 1942, to Ruth (Green) and Jim Flynn in Portland, Ore. He grew up in the Irvington district of Portland and attended Madeleine grade school, Central Catholic High School, and the University of Portland. He received an MAT degree from Portland State U in 1965 and a School Administration degree in 1983. He also attended Northwestern Law School for a year.

In 1970 John married Carmel Lanigan, his beautiful bride from Ireland. They enjoyed time with their children and grandchildren, traveling, visiting with friends, literature, films, and music. John played in a folk group at St. Ignatius Church, where they were married, and later at St. John the Baptist Church in Milwaukie where they lived for 30 years. He enjoyed playing Kingston Trio songs since his high school days and still performed at times at their PebbleCreek home until recently. Carmel and John traveled to Ireland many times to visit relatives and also toured Europe and Australia.

John taught and coached for 32 years at Hood River, Medford, Rex Putnam, and Milwaukie high schools and coached tennis at Clackamas, LaSalle, and Agua Fria high schools. In 1981 he became a USTA umpire, which he continued for 40 years. He officiated many tennis events in the Northwest, including sectional tournaments in Sunriver for 20 years, and also umpired at the U.S. Open in the 1990s. After retiring from teaching he supervised student teachers for U of Portland, PSU, and Concordia U. He played tennis for over 65 years.

John was known for his sense of humor, respect for others, music, and tennis. He was most proud of his wife, children, and grandchildren. He loved them dearly.

His positive impact on the lives of so many will be celebrated with song and drink at a traditional Irish wake to be scheduled after the holidays, then John will be laid to rest in Ireland.

In his honor, think of a teacher you had that made a difference in your life, then reach out to them and thank them—he always loved it when a former student would do this.

Virginia Robinson

Virginia Robinson (Ginnie), age 86 of Goodyear, Ariz., passed peacefully at home with family on Nov. 24, 2022. Ginnie was born on Sept. 15, 1936, in Seattle, Wash., the fourth child of Dr. Clarence and Virginia Shannon. She grew up in the Capital Hill area of Seattle, playing tennis at the Seattle Tennis Club and attending Forest Ridge.

Ginnie went on to attend the UW (Delta Gamma Sorority) where she met the love of her life, Kenneth Robinson. Ken and Ginnie were married in 1960 and had three children. They enjoyed living all over the world as a result of Ken’s military career. After Ken’s retirement from the U.S. Navy, they settled back in the Seattle area and Ginnie coached girls tennis at Eastside Catholic High School. Ginnie and Ken moved to Goodyear, Ariz., in 1998, and enjoyed their time playing pickleball and golf.

Ginnie was preceded in death by her husband Ken, and siblings Bill, Dick, and Sally. She is survived by her children, Tighe, Teri Owens (Buc), and David (Kathy); five grandchildren, Shannon, Josh, Sarah, Jake, and Jessica; and two great-grandchildren, Theo and Oliver.

Ginnie will be interned with Ken at the Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, Wash. Services are pending.

Barbara Joan Hendrickson

Barbara Joan (Bastiani) Hendrickson, our cherished Mother, passed away peacefully on Nov. 22, 2022, at the age of 83. She passed at home where she was cared for and surrounded by her children, James Hendrickson, Terry Hendrickson, and Karen Hendrickson. She follows her beloved husband, Chuck, who passed away Oct. 26, 2021.

Barbara was born in Albany, New York, on July 23, 1939. She was always a spirited child in search of new experiences. She got that, and more than she could have imagined, after marrying Chuck as a young military officer just beginning his career. She quickly and admirably learned what was needed of a military wife. She raised three children at various postings across the country. There was never a time when we arrived at our new “quarters” when she did not have the beds made up with fresh sheets for a peaceful introduction to our new lives.

She created a happy and warm home and was an excellent and supportive mother. Her keen sense of humor made things fun and there are many fond memories of coming home after school to have warm cookies before running outside to play in the neighborhood.

Barbara re-entered the outside workforce as her children moved forward with their schooling. She quickly rose to the role of the Executive Assistant to the head of the Veterans Administration Offices in both Lawton, Okla., and Phoenix, Ariz.

She was an avid singer around the house and in later years mastered classic country songs while participating in community plays and karaoke with her good friends at PebbleCreek, where she was known affectionately as “Country Barb.”

Barbara and Chuck shared a love of travelling and cruising—domestically and internationally—visiting Europe, Asia, and South America.

She will be missed immensely by her children Jim (Elizabeth and Jackson) Hendrickson of Atlanta, Ga., Terry Hendrickson of Goodyear, and Karen Hendrickson of Goodyear.

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Chuck, sister Norma, brother Amos Jr., and parents Amos and Theresa.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the ASPCA or your local animal shelter.

Joann Helen Taylor

With deep sadness we announce the peaceful passing of Joann Helen Taylor, age 89, on Friday, Nov. 18, 2022. Joann was born on Sept. 22, 1933, in Pontiac, Mich., to Helen and William Schmiel. After raising their family in Woodland Hills, Calif., Joann and her husband Ralph Taylor moved to the PebbleCreek, where they lived happily for six years before Ralph passed away in 2005. Joann remained in PebbleCreek after Ralph passed away. She joined the Singles Club and was surrounded by close friends and the wonderful and caring PebbleCreek community.

Joann’s work career was raising her family and working for a California travel agency where she was fortunate to see so much of the world. Joann will be remembered for her vivacious personality, love of travel, throwing parties, and social nature. She especially loved the holidays with family, where her creative talent and love of assembling beautiful table settings and holiday decorations brought a smile to everyone’s face. Flowers always fed Joann’s soul, and she looked forward to receiving them and planting her spring crop every year in her yard.

While described as sweet and gracious, Joann surprised everyone as she was a fiercely competitive card and bocce ball player in the PebbleCreek community. Joann loved her University of Michigan football games dressed in football gear while eating a bucket of chicken for her home tailgate parties. Even as she was declining in health, she never wanted to miss a single game.
Most of all she loved her family and instilled in her children the importance of staying connected. She will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.

Joann is survived by her two sons, Mike and Mark Taylor; daughters, Pamela and Julie Taylor; grandchildren, Matthew Taylor, Pamela Bonas, and Brandon Barngrover; and three great-grandchildren, Taylor and Robbie Bonas and Callum Barngrover.

The family will be holding a memorial service in Riverside, Calif., where Joann will be buried next to her husband Ralph and they will both be close to family. A Celebration of Life was held at Joann’s home for close friends and family on Dec. 10, 2022.

As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association and messages of condolence can be sent to 3504 150th Dr., Goodyear, AZ 85395.

Arthur E. Chouinard

Arthur E. Chouinard of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away Oct. 25, 2022, at the age of 80. He was born August 22, 1942, in Cornwall, Ontario, Canada to Paul and Rosanna (née Ladouceur) Chouinard, both who predeceased him.

Arthur is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Rena (née Toupin) Chouinard; son, Steven (Kristi) Chouinard; daughter, Julia (Mike) Mellinger; brother, Paul (Marcelle—deceased) Chouinard; sister-in-law, Brenda Walker (née Toupin); brother-in-law, Michael Toupin; grandchildren, Kaitlin (Dylan) Lane, Morgan Chouinard, Scarlett Mellinger, and Sierra Mellinger; and great-grandchildren Aubrey Lane, Skylar Lane, and Nolan Lane.

In 1980, Arthur and Rena moved from Canada to Arizona where Arthur spent his entire career in the wholesale flooring distribution industry. Arthur loved sports. He used to play tennis leisurely with his friends, but also enjoyed hockey and football. Arthur enjoyed reading, music, and history. He also traveled whenever he could. But his greatest love was his family. Though his passing brings great sadness, the memory of him and his love will live forever in their hearts.

The family appreciates your care during this difficult time.

Richard Martin Fox

Longtime PebbleCreek resident Richard Fox left this earth to be with his heavenly Father on Oct. 18, 2022, at the age of 87. He was surrounded by his wife of 64 years, Rosemarie, and their five children, Donna, Rick, Kurt, Patty, and Terri.

Richard was born on Sept. 9, 1935, in New York City to Minnie and Harry Fox. He grew up in Times Square, New York where he met the love of his life, Rosemarie Keenan. Richard went to Holy Cross Grade School and Cardinal Hayes High School. He graduated from Iona College in 1957, joined the Marine Corps, and married Rosemarie in December of that same year.

After leaving the Marine Corps, Richard joined the FBI and had a fulfilling career as a special agent.

Rich devoted his retirement years pursuing his true passion, which was spending quality time with his large family.

Richard is survived by his wife Rosemarie, five children, 17 grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren who lovingly knew him as Papa.

Funeral services for Richard Fox will be on Nov. 10, 2022, 9:30 a.m., at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, 23225 Lyons Ave., Santa Clarita, CA 91321, followed by interment services at Eternal Valley Memorial Park, 23287 North Sierra Hwy., Newhall, CA 91321.

Jane Marie Schaffer

Jane Marie Schaffer, age 78, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 13, 2022, in Prairie Village, Kan., after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. Jane was born to her parents, Ann and Jack Anderson, on Feb. 15, 1944, in Boston, Mass., and was raised in Ogden, Utah.

Jane was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, who loved her husband and family deeply. She was easy to laugh, quick to dance, and took pleasure in entertaining, often hosting tea parties and brunch. She delighted in dressing up as well as acting in community theater with her husband. Often referred to as “Lady Jane” her beautiful smile and sharp wit left an indelible impression. In her life, she was proud to have managed her husband’s medical practice and later loved being a military wife, living abroad and serving as co-president of the German/American Women’s Club.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and her loving husband, Dr. Sylven Schaffer. Jane is survived by her children, Michelle, Lynette, Jack, Mindy, stepchildren Mark and Ellen; her sisters Lou and Penny; her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. to noon, Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022, at Porter Loring Mortuary.
Graveside service will be Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022, at 1 p.m. at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd., San Antonio, TX 78209.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

You are invited to sign the Guestbook at www.porterloring.com. Arrangements with Porter Loring Mortuary, 1101 McCullough Ave., San Antonio, TX 78212, 210-227-8221.

Helen J. Francis

Helen J. Francis, 88, of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away peacefully on Oct. 7, 2022, surrounded by loved ones. Helen was born on Sept. 24, 1934, to Ona and Cass Johnson in Maxie, Va.

Helen married her high school sweetheart, Billy E. Francis, in 1953 and had three children, Eddie, David, and Lisa. Helen and Bill were married for 56 years until Bill’s death in 2009.

Seeking opportunities outside of their hometown in southwest Virginia, Helen and Bill moved to Hampton, Va., where they raised their children. Always dedicated to the needs of her family, Helen created a loving home and stayed at home until her youngest started school. Once she decided to work outside the home, Helen spent many years in the loan department of Central Fidelity Bank. In 1982, following a move to Williamsburg, Va., Helen left the bank and started a new career as a teacher’s assistant for special education students, providing them with the warmth and patience she was known for.

In 2019, Helen moved to PebbleCreek (Unit 19) to remain with her daughter and son-in-law upon their retirement. The move also gave her the opportunity to spend time with her son and daughter-in-law who also have a home in PebbleCreek. Helen loved the warm weather and blue skies of Arizona, spending time outside on her patio. She also enjoyed the occasional game of bocce, bingo, and cards, golf cart rides, concerts, and traveling the western United States in a RV. Helen forged new friendships in the years she lived in PebbleCreek and was well loved in the community. She frequently said she “had the most wonderful life.”

Left to honor and cherish her memory are her three children, Eddie (Shanna), David (JoAnn), and Lisa (Tom), grandchildren Maria, Olivia, Thomas, Kaden, Mackenzie, Rileigh, Zach, Matt, Will, Robby, Michael, Jessica, Robby, Tommy, Tahnee, and Kory.

Nanny, as she was affectionately known, was loved for her perpetual kindness, warmth, and loving heart. The family is grateful that they recently gathered in Goodyear to celebrate her 88th birthday, two weeks before her passing.

A Celebration of Life will be held Tuesday, Nov. 1, from 1 to 2 p.m. at the PebbleCreek home of daughter and son-in-law, Lisa and Tom Kellis. Helen will return home to Virginia in the spring of 2023 to join her loving husband at Peninsula Memorial Park.

Ronald Eugene Roat

Ronald Eugene Roat was born on July 24, 1947, in Canton, Ill., to Charles and Thelma Roat of Havana, Ill., (deceased) and passed away Friday, Sept. 30, 2022, at 8 p.m. at home surrounded by his wife and children. He has two surviving brothers—Keith (Donna) and Eldon (Kari) both of Havana, Ill., as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews, and nieces. Ron grew up on the family farm until he left to attend college. He attended a one-room schoolhouse until high school and then attended Havana Community High School where he graduated with the class of 1965.

Ron went on to Olivet Nazarene University to study biology/botany. After his junior year in 1968, he made the decision to enlist in the United States Air Force in anticipation of being drafted. Ron served at the Phu Cat, VietNam Air Base 1969-1970.

Ron married Cheryl O’Bryant, his high school sweetheart, in May of 1971. They were married for over 51 years. He finished his tour of duty in Grand Forks, N.D., in 1972 and moved back to Illinois. He farmed for four years before buying farmland in Winigan, Mo., in 1977. Their three children were born in nearby Kirksville, Mo.—Benjamin (Kathy) of Phoenix who have three children (Brandon, Atticus, and Jette); Dana (Mark) of Goodyear who have three children (Henry, Charlie, and Ruby), and David (Jaclyn) of Spring Grove, Ill., who have four living children (Gavin—deceased 2012), Emma, Noah, Isla, and Sara).

In 1987 Ron made the decision that farming was not providing a good income, so they moved to Phoenix, Ariz., and later moved to PebbleCreek in November of 2005. Ron got a job with Service Master at John C Lincoln Hospital and then with the City of Peoria, where he was a Water Utility Technician for 13 years. After moving to Phoenix, he joined the Air National Guard and served in the Air Force for over 20 years, retiring in 2006. Ron participated in Operation Desert Storm, Operation Allied Force, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Ron was honored by his squadron by being selected Airman of the Quarter for the third quarter of 2002. He received the Meritorious Service Medal by distinguishing himself as an Aircraft Propulsion Specialist for the 161st Maintenance Squadron, 161st Air Refueling Wing, Phoenix, Ariz.

Ron served as a member of the choir, building committee, moving crew, and also supported Cheryl in her health care ministry at Turning Leaf Church of the Nazarene. In November 2020, Ron fell and broke his hip. After that his Alzheimer’s disease led to a decline in his health. He had a great smile to the very end and will be remembered for his servant’s heart and faithful commitment to God, his family, community, and country.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Sunday, Oct. 16 at 3 p.m. at the Turning Leaf Church of the Nazarene, 5800 N. Litchfield Road.

Gino Ranalli

Mr. Gino Ranalli, 90, died Sept. 29, 2022. He was born July 14, 1932, in Columbus, Ohio, to Croce Ranalli and Carmela Pisegna. He is survived by his wife, Frances Ranalli; daughters, Diane Windisch and Tina Ranalli; and son, Danny Ranalli.

Gino was raised in Columbus, Ohio, flytown, until leaving for the Navy in 1955. He met and married Frances. Together they had four children and raised them in Long Beach, Calif. Gino was an avid sports fan, especially the Lakers and Rams. He played all sports, including basketball, golf, bowling, dancing, and shooting pool with his buddies.

He will be missed by all.

Lloyd Pottratz

Lloyd Pottratz, age 85, passed away peacefully on Sept. 27, 2022, after a long battle with cancer and a series of health issues.

Lloyd and his wife Judy have been long time residents of the PebbleCreek community for over 25 years. They moved here from Davenport, Iowa, in 1996. Lloyd began his work in the financial world back in Davenport. In 1973 he branched out and founded Lloyd’s Plan Inc., which allowed him the opportunity to serve many people in the community with personal and business loans. Lloyd was involved with woodcarving, line dancing, church ministry, and as a volunteer at Perryville Prison, Andre House, and New Life Center. He and Judy also hosted the first Iowa party, and many more after that…Go Hawks! Lloyd was best known for his smiling eyes, practical jokes (especially getting his ear pierced at 84!), contagious laugh, generous spirit, hard work, strong faith, and immense compassion.

Lloyd is survived by his wife Judy, seven children and their spouses, 10 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, three sisters, and two brothers. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Tom, and grandson Joseph.

Lloyd’s funeral mass and celebration of life was held on Oct. 3 at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Davenport, Iowa. Many of his PebbleCreek friends attended as well as friends and family from around the country. May he rest in peace and know that he is missed and loved by many!

Jo Ann Yealey

Jo Ann (Hall) Yealey passed away Monday, Sept. 5, 2022, after a brief illness. Jo Ann was born in Beech Grove, Ind., on Jan. 26, 1929, and lived 93 years to the fullest. She was a joy up to the end of her beautiful life. She is survived by her only child, a daughter Chanca Morrell, two grandsons Cory Crafton and Craig Crafton, granddaughter-in-law Angela (Fichtner) Crafton, soon-to-be granddaughter-in-law Becky Bobb and three great-grandchildren, Darian Crafton, Chance Crafton, and Lucas Crafton.

Jo Ann spent several years working as a cabinet inspector for Admiral Corporation in Shelbyville, Ind., from which she retired. She later went to work in the sporting goods department at Target in Shelbyville, Ind., from which she later retired. Jo Ann also assisted her husband “Snag” (that was his nickname) in the cleaning business at O’Neil Steel in Shelbyville, Ind., which later she and her daughter took over after her husband’s death. A few years later she married her high school sweetheart Talva “Mac” Yealey and they shared a beautiful life together until Mac passed away in 2000.

Jo Ann moved to PebbleCreek in 2010. She lived with her daughter and son-in-law Clark Morrell. Clark preceded her in death in 2018. She was very active in the PebbleCreek community and is best known for her appearance as Minnie Pearl in Showtime Productions. “Howdy” is how she would greet you followed by “See ya round like a donut” as she said goodbye to people.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Oct. 1, 2022, at 10 a.m. at the Church at Litchfield Park, 300 N. Old Litchfield Road. On Oct. 29, a graveside service will be held at Van Pelt cemetery in Waldron, Ind. A luncheon and Celebration of Life will be held immediately following the graveside service at the St. Paul Christian Church in St. Paul, Ind.

Many thanks to all of you for your cards, visits, and attending my mom’s Celebration of Life.

Corrie Copple (Tiegs)

Corrie Lyn Copple passed away peacefully in Sacramento in the early morning hours of Sept. 4, 2022, due to complications from cancer.

She was born May 28, 1958, in Alameda, Calif., and grew up in nearby Pleasant Hill. In her youth, she was a champion-level barrel racer. She also played tennis where she was a rare four-year women’s varsity tennis player in high school and went on to become highly ranked regionally and nationally as an adult. She then took up the game of golf and was an avid and accomplished player.

Corrie began her career in 1979 as a paralegal in real estate law and litigation, which she did for 13 years both in California and Idaho. In the mid-1990s, she founded and operated her own successful espresso coffee business at the airport in Boise, Idaho. In 2004, Corrie moved to the community of PebbleCreek in Goodyear, Ariz. She accepted a position as flight attendant with America West Airlines (now American Airlines) and rapidly rose to supervisory and management positions, ultimately serving as Manager of the Aviation Safety Action Program for Flight Attendants. In 2014 when the airline consolidated its corporate offices in Dallas, Texas, Corrie chose to remain in Goodyear. She obtained her Real Estate license and worked in new home sales for Robson Communities at PebbleCreek, then for The Realty One Group also in PebbleCreek. She moved back to California in July 2021 to live the remainder of her life with her loving partner, John Raeside.

Corrie is predeceased by her parents, Ronald Tiegs and Nelda Tiegs Stoops. She leaves behind her daughter Teri Lyn Fisher-Morris (Aaron), grandson Jude, sister Dana, boyfriend John Raeside, and her beloved dog, Sugar, along with dear relatives and loving friends.

Corrie’s beautiful smile, extraordinary sense of humor, and thoughtful kindness brought joy to those fortunate enough to be part of her life. She will be missed by all who knew her.

Corrie’s ashes will be scattered in Monterey Bay near the Pebble Beach Golf Course in a private ceremony. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Tuscany Falls Clubhouse in the PebbleCreek community in Goodyear on Monday, Nov. 21, at noon. Donations in Corrie’s memory may be made to the Cameron Champ Foundation to benefit youth in underserved and underprivileged communities (cameronchampfoundation.org).

Jim Wolfe

James Richard Wolfe—affectionately known to everyone as Jim or Jimmy—unexpectedly passed away at his home on Saturday, Sept. 3, 2022.

Jim was born in Queens, N.Y., on Feb. 7, 1947, to Robert and Helen Wolfe. After Jim graduated from Garden City High School in 1964, he served as a volunteer firefighter before enrolling in the U.S. Air Force, where he went on to proudly serve in Vietnam. Jim was honored to serve for his country.

After the U.S. Air Force, Jim started a long career in the Consumer Discretionary Products industry at American Greetings in the San Francisco Bay Area. Jim led several sales divisions at the company both in Indiana and Northern California before retiring and moving to Arizona in 2004.

Jim and his wife of 40 years, Vicki, had two children, Mark and Heather. Jim was also a proud grandfather to three wonderful grandchildren, Layla Rose Wolfe (17), Scarlett Victoria Clarke (7), and Graham James Clarke (5).

Outside of his career and his devoted time as a father and grandfather, you would inevitably find Jim telling stories and jokes with family and friends as he made his way around the golf course. Having spent many years golfing his way around California and Indiana, Jim settled in PebbleCreek as an avid member of the “Bushwhacker” golfing group.

Jim’s other great passion in life was baseball. When Jim wasn’t on the golf course, he loved nothing more than watching either of his two favorite teams in action—the Oakland A’s and the Arizona Diamondbacks. Jim fulfilled a life-long dream last year when he attended the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y., with his son, Mark, and his son-in-law, Jason.

In addition to golf and baseball, Jim loved to travel, listen to ‘60s music—the Rolling Stones being his favorite—and sit around the kitchen table telling stories with family and friends while sipping on a nice glass of Josh cabernet with his dog, Riley, laying by his side.

Jim is survived by his former wife, Vicki Wolfe, their children, Mark Wolfe and Heather (Jason) Clarke, his older brother, Tim (Betsy) Wolfe, his sister, Jane (Sam) Cowan, and his younger brother, Roger (Mary) Wolfe. He will be missed every day.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or Vietnam Veterans of America, organizations Jim felt strongly about.

Eric Lee

Eric Lee passed away peacefully on Sept. 2, 2022, near his home in Goodyear, Ariz., following a short battle with Alzheimer’s.

He was born in Denver, Colo., to Robert and Elizabeth Lee. He attended South High School, where he excelled in football, basketball, and track. Eric then attended the University of Colorado in Boulder on a basketball and track scholarship where he majored in history. He was a member of the university’s Big 8 Conference championship basketball teams in 1962 and 1963. Post-graduation, he played on the 1964 Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) USA Basketball team sponsored by the U.S. State Department.

Following graduation, he moved to Alaska where he was a high school teacher and coached athletics from 1965 to 1973. He was chairman of the Republican Party in Anchorage from 1970 to 1973 and served as a delegate to the Republican National Convention. From 1974 to 1979, he worked for the State of Alaska as Director of Community and Rural Economic Development. He moved to California in 1982 and, until 1986, owned and operated a small construction firm specializing in alternative energy systems. From 1986 until early 1992, Eric was the Regional Administrator for Region 8 of the U.S. General Services Administration appointed by President Reagan. He concluded his working years as a real estate investor and a self-employed contract investigator.

Eric was a loving father to his children and grandchildren. Eric had many diverse talents and interests. In addition to being an avid golfer and artist, he loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and flying his plane in Alaska.

He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Monica; children Kendall Lee Edwards of Scottsdale, Ariz., and her children Cade, Carson, and Crew; Jason Lee of Buena Vista, Colo.; Kelly (Dave) Edwards of Hillsboro, Ore., and their children Robbie, Katie (Andrew) Petersen, and Tommy Edwards. He is also survived by his brother Dennis Lee of Crossville, Tenn., niece Sherry (Joel) Lunstrum, and nephew Justin Falsetto. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Delisa Lee Falsetto Ore.

A very special thank you to all his family and friends who helped in his final days. Donations may be made to the Arizona Humane Society in memory of Eric Lee and all of his beloved pets to include Charlie, Juneau, Kenai, Muffin, Allie, and Jax. A Celebration of Life will be held in the fall, the date of which has yet to be determined.

George Michael McNeil

George Michael McNeil, age 74, passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2022, at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Phoenix, Ariz. He fought courageously but could not win the battle.

George was born in New Haven, Conn., on Nov. 22, 1947. He attended Syracuse University for two years and graduated with high honors from Rutgers University with a Bachelor of Science degree in management in 1985. He had a long career in project management with Gilbane Building Company, Providence, R.I. His work took him to upstate New York; Framingham, Mass.; Providence, R.I.; New York City; Pittsburgh, Penn.; and finally to run several major projects in New York state and New Jersey. In 1992 he received the Gilbane Building Company Iver Johnson Builder of the Year Award, Northeast Region. He successfully opened a District Office in Albany, N.Y., where an award was created in his honor called “The George McNeil Tough-Minded Award,” which is given yearly to an employee who displays the same qualities that George exemplified—the innate ability to do what is right, even when it isn’t the easy thing to do. He retired from the company as a vice president in January 2012 after a remarkable 46 years of service. Since then, he worked at maintaining many lasting friendships with coworkers.

George met his wife, Kathie, on a blind date in June 1968. They attended Woodstock that year and the rest is history! They were married 45 years on Aug. 27. George loved cooking and completed several diploma courses in cooking techniques. He was an avid Sudoku player and reader. George and Kathie retired to Arizona in January 2015. On June 2, 2016, George underwent a successful double lung transplant and thereafter lived life to the fullest. He and his wife have enjoyed trips to the Grand Canyon, Florida, California, Alaska, and their favorite place, Maui, Hawaii. In Arizona they have wonderful supportive neighbors and made lots of friends through golfing, bocce, and Putters Club.

George is predeceased by his twin brother, Graham, his father, George, and his mother, Virginia. Grateful for sharing his life are his wife Kathie, of Goodyear, Ariz., his nephew Sean (Lisa), great niece Kylie, and great nephew Ian from Jacksonville, Fla.

Always known for his winning smile and kind and gentle demeanor, he was a class act who will truly be missed by all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations to Donate Life America or the American Lung Association.

Nancy L. Mowen

Nancy L. Mowen, an amazing mother, wife, nana, friend, mentor, counselor, servant, and daughter of William R. Pratt and Charlotte J. (Taylor) Pratt passed away Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2022, after a year-long battle with pancreatic cancer. She was born Aug. 27, 1947, in Belvidere, Ill. She married Marcus J. Mowen on July 28, 1973, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Rockford, Ill. A graduate of Northern Illinois University, Nancy held a Bachelor of Science degree in education, a Master of Science degree in education, and a CAS in personnel and guidance. At Northern she was an active member of Alpha Omicron Pi Sorority and Delta Psi Kappa Professional Honorary Fraternity. Nancy is survived by her husband of 49 years, Mark, and children Matthew (Ruby) Mowen, Milo and Luna of Longmont, Colo.; Marissa (Eric) Vermeer, Cael, Elliana, and Harper of Jewell, Iowa; and Michael (Jojo) Mowen, and Marley of Longmont, Colo.

She is remembered by her family and friends as kind, compassionate, and selfless, often putting her family first above her needs. Some of her happiest days were spent supporting her three children in accomplishing their own dreams in life. Nancy was an avid reader and lifelong lover of dogs. She enjoyed baking with her grandchildren, helping them learn new skills, and cheering them on in their athletic competitions and musical activities. Her life was a rich testimony of her unwavering passion for her family.

Nancy’s entire teaching and counseling career was spent in the Rockford Public Schools beginning in 1969. She taught and served as a guidance counselor at West, Auburn, and Guilford High Schools. Her care and concern for both her students and colleagues was evident in the way she passionately served.

A special thank you to Dr. David Hansen, Nancy’s primary care physician for many years. The family would also like to thank Dr. Monica Patel, Jenna Wilke, NP, and Lillian Thompson, RN, at University of Wisconsin Cancer Center, and Northern Illinois Hospice. Thank you to our faithful friends and family for the prayers and loving support. Please know how much peace and comfort you brought to a journey that would have been so much more difficult without you.

Condolences may be shared with the family beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 17 at Roscoe United Methodist Church with a memorial service starting at 11 a.m. A lunch will be served at the conclusion of the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that memorials be given in Nancy’s name to Roscoe United Methodist Church Serenity Memorial Garden & Ashuary or the Rockton Remembers Hononegah Statue Fund.

Helen W. Still

Helen (Watt) Still, 91, of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away peacefully on Aug. 31, 2022. She is survived by her daughters Sharon Paulson of Redmond, Wash., and Susan Still of Hoodsport, Wash.; her son Steve (Amy) Still of Austin, Texas; and grandchildren Trevor Paulson of Redmond, Wash.; Taylor Still of Denver, Colo.; Zach Still, Allison Still, and Kennedy Still of Austin, Texas.

Helen Mae was born on June 10, 1931, in Buffalo, Wyo., as the youngest child of Thomas and Mary (Cash) Watt. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Robert “Bobby” Watt, and sister Dorothy Hill. The family moved from Buffalo to Seattle where Helen graduated from historic Queen Anne High School.

Family was of utmost importance to Helen. She adored her children and grandchildren and looked forward to their calls and visits, telling stories, and celebrating their accomplishments. She reveled in staying in contact with friends and family across the West whether it be the beloved cousins from Buffalo and Kaycee, her nephew in Albuquerque, or her former classmates in Seattle.

Helen enjoyed what life had to offer in the Northwest from traveling, gardening, the mountaineering club, Seattle Unity Church, and her neighborhood group. When she chose to move to Arizona, she availed herself of the many opportunities the desert had to offer including the PebbleCreek Singles Club, bocce ball, The Church of Litchfield Park, and her numerous card groups. She was so grateful for the many friends she had made from Seattle to Goodyear.

Heartfelt thanks go to Jill Santy whose unwavering friendship, support, and care for Helen during the past four years was invaluable. Special thanks to Hospice of the Valley and Ryan House for their loving care of Helen during her final days.

A small family celebration will be held in Seattle at a future date.

Lyda Evers

Ms. Lyda Evers of Goodyear, Ariz., died Aug. 20, 2022, at the age of 88. She was born June 12, 1934, in Hot Springs, Ark., to Raymond Smith and Lytha Phillips.

Lyda spent her early childhood in Mayer, Ariz., and graduated from Glendale High School. She was a veteran of the United States Army serving from October 1950 to September 1952. She married John “Hoot” Evers in September of 1952 and together they would raise three sons. For many years, she was an employee of the State of Arizona.

Lyda was predeceased by her brother, Leon Smith; sisters, Jenna Rae Spitler and Zoan Gentner; and her son, Daniel Phillip Evers.

She leaves behind her husband of nearly 70 years, John “Hoot” Evers; sons, John H. (Diana) Evers and Gary R. (Kathy) Evers; and her sisters, Joyce Gibson and Linda Gomez. She also leaves behind eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at the National Memorial Cemetery of Phoenix at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Aug. 31. A Celebration of Life is being planned for a later date.

John Mortimer Wallace

John Mortimer Wallace (CMSGT U.S. Air Force, retired), born April 11, 1932, passed away peacefully Aug. 4, 2022, following a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. Born in Limerick, Maine, to Loretto and Foster Wallace, John’s greatest joy was his wife and family.

John began his military career in 1952 and married his high school sweetheart, Sheila Ryan, in 1954. Following retirement John worked at Boeing and St. John Bosco Catholic Church. John also became a Master Gardener and devoted many volunteer hours at the Military Base Exchange providing gardening advice. John had a great sense of humor and was always quick with a smile and a joke. An extremely generous man, he would frequently give away his hat, shirt, or sweater to anyone who complimented him on his attire. He loved making bread for family, friends, and neighbors and to quietly buy dinner for some young family in a restaurant.

In the 1970s, John joined the Catholic Charismatic Renewal and became a Prayer Group leader in both Illinois and Washington, a member of the board and later President of the Board after which he became active in the Knights of Columbus. He was elected to Knights’ State Officer, becoming State Deputy in 2009, and received numerous awards for his service. In 2001 John and his family were selected the Knights Family of the Year and chosen Second Runner-Up as International Family of the Year.

During his military career, John was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Meritorious Service Medals, the Air Force Commendation Medal, and Air Medals for service and valor. John is predeceased by his daughter, Deborah Jean (Debbie) Wallace, and great-granddaughter Gretchen Clary. He leaves his wife of nearly 68 years, Sheila (Ryan) Wallace; daughters Cheryl Kunkle (Steve) of Goodyear, Ariz., Bonnie Clark (Glenn) of Puyallup, Wash., and Sharon Webster (Robert) of Puyallup, Wash.; sons John Wallace (Lois) of Liberty, Wash., and Scott Wallace (Ellen) of Puyallup, Wash.; 20 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

Gary Ludwig

Gary Ludwig, 86, passed away July 22, 2022, at home in PebbleCreek after fighting multiple myeloma for eight years. He leaves behind his wife, Karen Ludwig; daughter, Beth Streeter; son and daughter-in-law, Dr. Bryan and Elisabeth Ludwig; and three grandchildren, Simon Streeter, Zachary Ludwig, and Julia Ludwig. He is survived by his sister Shirley Brown and his nieces and nephews-in-law, Cindy and Tom Pugh and Jill and Andrew McIntyre.

Gary was born in Fort Dodge, Iowa, and spent his early years in Fort Dodge and Des Moines, Iowa. He attended Northwestern University for two years then graduated from Kansas State University with a bachelor’s in electrical engineering. He began his career at Procter & Gamble but was called up for service in the Air Force as a Captain. After four years in the Air Force, he decided to stay on as a civilian at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in the research and development department. He went on to get his MBA at Ohio State University and later worked on a master’s in electrical engineering.

It was during his time at Ohio State that he met his wife Karen, who was just beginning college as an adult student. They married after she graduated and lived in Beavercreek, Ohio. They had two children; both also graduates of Ohio State.

Gary retired at the senior executive service level in 1994, and he and Karen traveled the world for the next 20 years seeing six different continents. They were snowbirds in Arizona for many years and have been permanent residents for three years.

Gary was a tennis player and enjoyed the camaraderie of the drop-in men’s tennis group. He was also an avid ham radio operator and member. In his middle years, he enjoyed taking his family camping, boating, and on many family vacations all over the world. He left a wonderful legacy through his family and will be remembered always. We send him on with love and peace.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made in Gary Ludwig’s name to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation at 383 Main Avenue, 5th Floor, Norwalk, CT 06851.

Memorial services will be held in Dayton, Ohio.

Gary Lord

As in life, Gary was very well-organized in death. His planning was greatly appreciated by his family, but it was needed sooner than anyone expected.

Gary Reese Lord was born in Ellenville, N.Y., on July 22, 1939, to Joe and Thelma Lord. He spent his youth in Potsdam, N.Y., where he was active in sports and student government. Full of entrepreneurial spirit, he met his beloved wife, Ruth, while selling greeting cards to his future mother-in-law, Dorothy Putnam.

From upstate New York he earned an appointment to West Point and company K1, where he made many lifelong friends. He managed the basketball team and was a member of the ski team. As fate would have it, Gary had stashed a car off-post, and on an extended leave weekend in his senior year, he ventured off to South Bend to visit Ruth. They decided to get married, and “sealed the deal” on July 29, 1961.

Army life was good to Gary and Ruth and took them all over the world. He was honored to serve his country. Gary’s first assignment was the 82nd Airborne at Ft. Bragg, N.C., where he and Ruth welcomed their first-born son, Brad. The army awarded Gary with the opportunity to get a master’s degree in engineering from the University of Illinois, where daughter Kristi was born. Following a tour in Vietnam, Gary served as an aide to a 4-star general in Tampa, Fla. Here, the growing Lord family welcomed another daughter, Kelleen. Lastly, son Reese joined the family while Gary was stationed in California and working in the Sacramento Engineer District.

After many years of life all over the map, including a 3-year stay for the family in Germany, Gary retired from the military as the District Engineer of Portland, Ore., in March of 1988. Military retirement led to a fulfilling second career in engineering with Kiewit Construction. Gary and Ruth joined the Arizona community of PebbleCreek toward the end of his career and met many dear friends who share in their love of golf, wine, bridge, and socializing. Gary and Ruth loved to play host, never more evident than during their annual Easter fundraiser.

Travel was a real passion for Gary, both with Ruth and with his family. He traveled to places people dream of including Africa, Costa Rica, Peru, the Balkans, a trek through the Austrian Alps, and a landmark trip back to Southeast Asia to revisit what he built and sacrificed for all those years ago. And, in what would turn out to be his final trip, the extended family was able to gather at a grand villa in the Tuscan Hills of Italy to celebrate Gary and Ruth’s 60th wedding anniversary, despite the logistical hurdles posed by a global pandemic.

Always known for his active and healthy lifestyle, his cancer diagnosis in May of this year came as a complete shock to both family and friends. He fought like the soldier he was, but lost that battle on July 15, 2022, surrounded by his family.

Known for his beautiful smile and vivid spirit, he will be deeply missed by Ruth, his four children and their spouses, nine grandkids, two great-grandkids, and countless dear friends.

Deanna Lynn Engelbert

Deanna Lynn Engelbert transitioned from this earthly life on June 27, 2022, to a heavenly and blessed eternity. God showed He would carry her on through cancer with His deep love.

She graduated from Marian High in Omaha and received her B.S. in business from Bellevue University in Bellevue, Neb.

Deanna had a heart for service and making people smile. She greeted everyone with “Hello Sunshine.”

If she could have put her family, her St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church community in Houston, and employer/coworkers (Raytheon Technologies) all in one place in Nebraska where she was born Feb. 14, 1963, she would have been in Husker heaven.

She is preceded in death by extended family and her four grandparents. She has left behind her mom and dad, Arlene (Pfeifer) Engelbert and Jack Engelbert; brothers Dennis and Tammy (Spencer) Engelbert and Kevin and Becky (Edens-Clayton) Engelbert; nieces and nephews Gavin, Grace, Jaden, Faith, John, Luke, and Rachel Engelbert; and great niece and nephew Charlotte and Elliot.

Deanna moved to PebbleCreek in March of 2020 to be with her parents the last years of her life. She enjoyed many of the amenities of our community and was able to spread her smiles and Hello Sunshine greeting with everyone she met.

Kay Cee Christenson (KayCee)

Kay Cee Christenson (KayCee), age 63 of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away on Friday, June 10, 2022, at Hospice of the Valley in Glendale, Ariz. Services were held June 17 at Thompson Funeral Chapel in Goodyear, Ariz., for immediate family. A celebration of life for friends and family will be held at a later date.

KayCee was born in Pomona, Calif., on Sept. 18, 1958. Her father worked for the U.S. Border Patrol, and the family moved to multiple border cities in the states of Texas, Michigan, Vermont, and North Dakota. However, she spent most of her early life in Portal, N.D., and considered it her hometown. She graduated from Burke Central High School in Lignite, N.D., in 1976, where she excelled in basketball and track. KayCee attended The National College of Business (NCB) in Rapid City, S.D., where she met her future husband, Todd, who was attending South Dakota School of Mines. Following graduation, the young couple moved to Traverse City, Mich., to start their lives together. They were married on July 17, 1982. They moved from Michigan to Texas, where their first son (Matthew) was born. After three years in Texas, the family moved to Anchorage, Alaska where their second son (Daniel) was born. They spent the next 25 years raising their family in the 49th state.

KayCee was a stay-at-home mother to her two boys in their early years, and later worked for the school district as a teacher’s aide and librarian’s assistant. She enjoyed weekends at the cabin, fishing, clamming, berry picking, quilting, and attending her boys’ soccer games.

In her retirement years she spent her summers in Alaska, and winters in Arizona. She enjoyed golfing, whether it be in her couple’s groups or women’s 9-holers. Genealogy was a passion of hers. She was a daughter of the American Revolution, and could trace her roots back to the Mayflower. Traveling internationally and experiencing the world was a passion of KayCee’s. She traveled to Europe, Central America, South America, and Australia. Her favorite experience was her European River cruise.

Grateful for sharing her life are her husband, Todd Christenson of Goodyear, Ariz.; their sons, Matthew Christenson (Lindsay Weingartner) of Anchorage, Alaska; Daniel Christenson of Goodyear, Ariz.; brother, Steve (Barbara) Cudney of Hollis, N.H.; and numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Kaycee was preceded in death by her parents Loren and Maureen (Muralt) Cudney.

Kathy Koch Scott

Kathy Koch Scott, age 77 of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away unexpectedly and peacefully on June 2, 2022, in Joplin, Mo. Services were held June 9 at St. Peters Catholic Church in Marshall, Mo.

Kathy was born in Marshall, Mo., on July 27, 1944, to John H. Koch and Mary Perkins Koch, the fourth of eight children. She was raised in Marshall and graduated from Mercy Academy in 1962. In 1963 she married John P. Scott, who survives of the home. After moving to Columbia, Mo., for two years where their first son was born and then to Kansas City, Mo., for two years they then moved to Cincinnati, Ohio, where they spent the next 35 years and where their second son was born.

Kathy was a stay-at-home mom for most of the boys’ early years and then worked as a bookkeeper and secretary after the boys left home. As the boys were growing up she enjoyed traveling during vacations, visiting relatives, and taking the boys to National Parks and historical sites. She particularly enjoyed automobile trips, and in later years she and John visited all 48 lower states, drove to Alaska twice and visited Hawaii numerous times. After retiring in 2000 they began international travel visiting six continents. She particularly enjoyed her visits to the Holy Land and to Rome.

She always had an artistic aptitude and made many pencil sketches throughout her life starting with her high school and the local hometown newspaper in her teens. After moving to PebbleCreek and joining the Art Club she developed a love of painting and set aside a room in her home as her studio. Pictures she took on her travels were the inspiration for many of her paintings. She also continued drawing with pencil and charcoal creating scenic pictures and portraits of her grandchildren.

Survivors include her husband John; her sons Ron Scott (Julie) of Glendale, Ariz., and Doug Scott (Shelley) of Commerce Township, Mi.; four grandchildren and one great-grandson; and five siblings, Betty Gazverde, Larry Koch (Char), Glenn Koch (Dian), Judy Koch, and Pat Smith (Leroy).

She was preceded in death by her parents, a granddaughter Sarah Joan Scott; and two sisters Norma Gorrell and Darlene Cochran.

Lynne Charlemyne (Molloy) Ackerman

Lynne Ackerman passed away June 1 after a brief but courageous battle with myelodysplastic syndrome, a type of blood cancer.

Lynne was born in Rochester, N.Y., the daughter of Lucille Diedrick Molloy and Donald P. Molloy. She grew up in Denville, N.J., and graduated from Morris Knolls High School in 1966. Lynne had a successful career as a commercial and corporate flight attendant. She started her career with Trans World Airlines and worked there for 9 years. After a brief hiatus with her three young sons, she returned to the workforce as a corporate flight attendant for another 30 years. During that span, she worked for Phillip Morris, the Ambassador of Mozambique, and NetJets.

She retired as a flight attendant in the mid-2010s but continued to stay active, working part-time at Saucon Valley Country Club. This allowed her to be close to her favorite activity, playing golf. Lynne also enjoyed swimming, bowling, and long walks with her beloved dog Monique. She liked watching college basketball and pro football, rooting for her New York Giants no matter where she was. With her occupation, she was able to travel a great deal and would always take the opportunity to explore the city or country she was in. She enjoyed going to the theater, discovering museums and dining at unique restaurants. After living most of her life on the East Coast (raising her family in Sparta, N.J., and initially retiring to Allentown, Pa.), she decided to move to Arizona in 2019 so she could play golf year-round.

Her memory is especially treasured by her three sons: William John Ackerman II (Amanda Springmann) of Falls Church, Va., Richard Edward Ackerman (Kin Wan) of St. Louis, Mo., and Derek Douglas Ackerman (Christina Hickel) of Phoenix, Ariz. Other survivors include sister Dr. Donna Molloy Mogan of Durham, N.C.; niece Tara Mogan Blom of Annapolis, Md.; great-niece Jacqueline Martin; and grandchildren Jack, Henry, Jacob, Evi, Scarlet, Lucas, and Oliver. In addition to her family, Lynne leaves behind many friends who will miss her dearly.

A Celebration of Life will take place at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Mount Arlington, N.J., on Oct. 8 at 10 a.m. (EST).

Carlene (Cris) Joan (Christensen) Capelli

Cris was born July 3, 1939, in Los Angeles, Calif., to mother, Corinne Thelma (Rossum) Christensen, and father, John Andrew Christensen. She was the older sister to two brothers, David and Jerry. She passed away May 16, 2022.

She attended Santa Ynez Valley Union High School, in Santa Ynez, Calif., graduating in 1957 where she was an outstanding student. Some of her accomplishments included:
* Receiving four scholarship awards (one per year)
* Serving as student body secretary her senior year
* Participating in the chorus four years with a solo (Ave Maria) at her senior year spring concert
* Cheerleader sophomore year
* Held a lead role in Cheaper by the Dozen as “mama” in her senior year
* A member of the Girls Quartet her senior year
* Received a regional Home Economics Cooking award her senior year
* Marching band Majorette senior year (played flute)
* Recipient of a financial scholarship from Santa Ynez Valley Lions Club her senior year
* Recipient of Bank of America Award her senior year along with life-long best friend Willa Mahler

After high school she attended Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Wash., to study nursing where she met many meaningful, life-long friends, including the love of her life. She married G. James (Jim) Capelli in Solvang, Calif., on Dec. 28, 1958. Together they settled in Lakewood, Wash., and had four children; Cheryl, Caryn, Suzanne, and Greg.

Cris worked as a dental assistant for Dr. Evans in Parkland, Wash. Later she worked for Office Interiors NW until she retired in 1995. In her retirement years she worked as secretary for Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church in Lakewood and earned her Lay Minister award. She participated in the bell choir and the Clown Ministry. She enjoyed time with children and grandchildren and the close community of friends she and Jim had built over the years.

In 1998, she and Jim moved to Goodyear, Ariz. She continued her active role in the church at Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church in Goodyear where she also held the role of secretary for many years. She hosted Bible studies, facilitated fellowship events such as the Tuesday night dinners, and built a close-knit group of friends known as “the sisters.” She loved to play cards (and sat as a substitute in several card groups), scrapbook, and build relationships. Jim and Cris developed a close extended family through the church in Goodyear, which Cris cherished.

Cris is survived by her husband, Jim, three daughters, Cheryl, Caryn, Suzanne, their husbands, and one son, Greg. She also will be missed by nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, her two brothers and their families, as well as many friends considered close as family. She was preceded in death by one grandson, Justin.

Earl Gene Stair

Earl Gene Stair passed away May 16 in the loving embrace of his family with his precious dog, Rocky, snuggled on his lap. He was beloved by Pat, his wife of 50 years, and his children, Dawn Dahlin (Chris), Jennifer Smith, and Juliana Caviolo (James). He was blessed with three granddaughters, Elizabeth Smith, Emily Caviolo, and Claire Caviolo.

Gene was born Sept. 12, 1939, in Knoxville, Tenn., to Myrtle Clawson Stair and Jerome Neil Stair, Sr., who passed away many years ago. His brother, Jerome Neil Stair, Jr., also passed away previously.

Gene served in the U.S. Army for three years, most of it in Thule, Greenland. He spent many years as a salesman, starting at Breuner’s original store in Sacramento in the early ‘60s. He loved building remote controlled airplanes and boats, and working with his vast collection of tools. Gene was a perfectionist in all that he did, and his family said about him that “anything worth doing was worth overdoing.”

Our dearest Gene was kind, loving, and most generous, and will live in our hearts forever.

Gary Griggs

Gary Griggs, age 82, of Goodyear, Ariz., left this mortal realm on May 16, 2022. He is survived by his wife of almost 58 years, Bev; their son Michael (Shelly) Griggs; daughter, Kim Guerin; granddaughters, McKenna King and Rooney Jane Guerin; brother, Dan Griggs; brother-in-law, Mark (Sandra) Haner; nephew Matthew and niece Alison Haner; and two step-grandsons, Collin (Laura) Owen and Ryan Owen. Gary was preceded in death by his parents Otto and Kittie Griggs of Las Cruces, N.M.

Gary was born in Wichita Falls, Texas, then grew up in Las Cruces, N.M. He attended Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and UNM prior to enlisting in the United States Marine Corps where he served for eight years and was a Vietnam combat veteran. He met the love of his life while on Christmas leave in 1962; they wed in 1965 and they were married for almost 58 years.

Gary enjoyed everything life had to offer, but family was his first and foremost love. He loved them from the first moment he held them in his arms. It was watching his children grow and learn, set and achieve goals, become adults and have their own families that brought smiles to his face. Then it was the granddaughters who brought a new dimension of love to Gary’s life. How he adored those girls and was truly their proud Papa.

Tremendous and heartfelt thanks go to the exceptional doctors and nurses at St. Joseph Hospital Neuro Intensive Care Unit and also to Encompass Health and Acute Rehab in Glendale who provided a compassionate environment while carrying out their incredible nursing duties. An extra special thank you is extended to Hospice of the Valley during Gary’s transition from rehab to home, then from this life to the next. Their care and support of both Gary and our family was the best anyone could have and much appreciated.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Church at Litchfield Park in June. A date has not been set at this time. Internment will take place at the Phoenix Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made in Gary’s name to The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, The Church of Litchfield Park, or Hospice of the Valley.

John Spooler

John Donald Spooler, age 90, of Goodyear, Ariz., passed away peacefully at home on Friday, May 13, 2022.

John was born Sept. 13, 1931, to William and Mary Spooler in Wiley Ford, W.Va. The second of six children, John grew up surrounded by his grandparents’ love and knowing the value of hard work. He was an avid football player, basketball player, bowler, and golfer who always enjoyed a game with friends.

John enlisted in the Army in 1951 and began a highly decorated, 27-year career, initially as a Combat Engineer. He served two tours of duty in Vietnam and was stationed in Europe on multiple occasions. John retired from the Army in 1977 as a Command Sergeant Major from his last duty station at the Sergeants Major Academy in Fort Bliss, Texas. John met his wife Christine during his last tour of duty in Germany. They were married in 1970, and enjoyed 52 years of marriage together.

After the Army, John enjoyed a 15-year career with Academy Life Insurance, ultimately retiring as SVP of Sales. They moved to Goodyear, Ariz., in 1997 and John was elected twice to the HOA Board of Directors where he served his neighbors for more than 10 years.

John cared deeply about the welfare of military families and children, and he dedicated significant time to non-profit organizations including the Rotary Club, Shriners International, Arizona Homeless Youth Connection, and many others.

John is survived by his wife Christine, daughter Sharon, son-in-law James O’Brien, grandchildren Kevin and Lauren O’Brien, sisters Melba Knotts and Jane Kitzmiller, sister-in-law Virginia Martz, and 10 nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 11, at 11 a.m. at the Tuscany Falls Clubhouse in Goodyear. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Goodyear Rotary Club John Spooler Memorial Fund at www.goodyearrotary.org.

May his memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.

Terry Fergus

Terry Fergus, 75, passed on May 8, 2022, at La Loma Village, in Litchfield Park, Ariz., following complications with Parkinson’s.

He leaves his wife of 55 years, Apryl Fergus; his daughter, Ashley Fergus; brothers-in-law, Randy Sparks and his wife Debbie, and Joey Sparks and his wife Terri; a number of nephews and nieces; and many close friends.

Born in Racine, Wis., he lived his early years in Porterville, where he met his wife. They were high school sweethearts. He cemented his relationship with Apryl, in part by telling her younger brothers that his family had a toy store. He bought them the “coolest” Christmas gifts, even though his father was actually a superintendent of a construction company and his mother worked for a bank. He had a younger brother, Jimmy, who passed a number of years ago.

Terry’s work ethic began early in his life, working as a cowboy with cattle, and working a summer in Nevada, irrigating 200 acres of land, so that he could buy a car. That is probably of no surprise, since he was always a Man’s Man. However, many may be shocked to learn that he served as an altar boy for the Episcopal Church. He did this all prior to his graduation from high school at Porterville Union High. He continued his education, attending Porterville Community College for one year during which time he also was recognized as a cheerleader and on the swim and dive team.

Terry left college and joined the service in 1966 and served as a motion picture photographer in the Air Force. He was stationed at Vandenburg, and had many assignments that required him to travel throughout the world, including South Korea, Germany, and Japan, among other destinations. While still in the service, Terry and Apryl were married on July 8, 1967, in Terra Bella, Calif. After a 10-day honeymoon in San Diego, they moved to a furnished apartment in Santa Maria. The apartment had been selected by Terry, and had an orange couch, turquoise chair, and vaulted ceilings. Apryl was overwhelmed with the high design and Terry’s incredible good taste.

Upon completing his military service, he returned to the California central valley and he and Apryl both attended Fresno State University. They both graduated with Terry earning a B.S. degree and Apryl a B.A. degree. With college degrees completed, they took three months to drive cross country in a Volkswagen Bug, seeing New Orleans, Florida, Wisconsin, Denver, and all points in between. They often were able to stay with family and friends, before returning to Fresno to stay in Terry’s parents’ home for a few months, while Fergie and Sally were living and working in the Bay Area.

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(Mary) Patricia Shields Milich

Mary Patricia (Pat) Shields Milich, 76, of Goodyear, Ariz., (formerly of Hainesport, Medford, and Southampton, N.J.) died on April 13, 2022, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Phoenix. She grew up in Pemberton Borough, N.J., the daughter of the late Margaret Kemp and Joseph Hager Shields. Widow of Stephen D. Milich, she is survived by her three children, Mary Meehan of Leiden, The Netherlands; Anne Stagliano of Litchfield Park, Ariz.; and Peter Milich of Newport Beach, Calif. She also is survived by her beloved grandchildren, Sophia and Stephen Stagliano and Mira Meehan.

The oldest of seven children, Mrs. Milich leaves behind three sisters and three brothers as well as dear members of her late husband’s family. She is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Mrs. Milich graduated from Holy Cross High School in Delran, N.J., Class of 1963. She attended Rider University in Lawrenceville, N.J., taking courses at night while working fulltime as a reporter, columnist, and ultimately editor of The Burlington County Times Advertiser in Pemberton, N.J. During that time, Pat won numerous awards for her writing and editing from both the Burlington County and New Jersey Press Associations.

From 1991 until her retirement in 2007, she served as Director of Public Information for the Mount Laurel and Lenape Regional public school districts in New Jersey. Mrs. Milich was a member of the Hainesport Township Board of Education for 10 years, serving two years as the board president.

She was a member of St. Mary of the Lakes Catholic Church in Medford, N.J., prior to moving to Arizona in 2012, at which time she joined St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Goodyear.

While in Goodyear, Mrs. Milich served on the board of directors of the PebbleCreek Singles Club and the PebbleCreek Bocce Association. Her primary “job” during those years was that of a fulltime “Grammy.” She often would tell people it was the best job she ever had, and the most rewarding.

Here is her farewell, in her own words:
“I have been shown in so many ways throughout my life the love, kindness and collegiality of my loving family members and dear friends. I am now entering into eternal life with so many wonderful memories of and deep appreciation for all the people in my life who made it so worth living. Take care of one another and please remember, no matter what happens in life, ‘don’t let the flowers die.’”

A celebration of life will be held this summer in New Jersey. Condolences may be offered at 4200 W. Village Parkway, Unit 2129, Litchfield Park, AZ 85340.

Janice “Jan” Hilliker Fowler

With heavy hearts, we are letting Jan’s many loved ones know that Jan passed away on April 8, 2022, at her home in Goodyear, Ariz.

She so dearly loved her family. Her three children, Chuck, Dianne, and John, have all been able to be together with Aubrey in Arizona to share both tears and laughs, which is exactly what she would have wanted.

“Grammy” was an adoring and proud grandma to Aaron, Megan, Keely, Macie, John, and Christen, and a great-grandma to Matthew and Elena. Her incredible generosity and endless creativity were certainly her trademarks. Not a holiday went by without a special arrival and often a quick-witted personalized poem for each of them, which was much anticipated by all!

She was incredibly talented with her needlework and quilting. She learned from many of you and others she has taught, as well. She spent countless hours creating very special and thoughtfully designed quilts, but the best part for her was when the time came to give the finished product to her loved ones.

Jan and Aubrey were married for 62 years. It was seldom they weren’t side by side, and it was inspiring to observe their love for each other. They were best friends through life, and Aubrey was right by the love of his life when she passed peacefully in her sleep.

They lived their dream retirement and truly traveled the world. They experienced almost every continent (don’t count Aubrey out for Antarctica yet), and it’s not easy to win the game of “name a country that Mom and Dad haven’t been to.” They worked very hard to make this well-deserved dream come true.

She was so grateful for the many friends she had made along her path in life from Denver to Omaha, then to her peaceful retirement retreat in Arizona. Thank you all for your gifts of love and friendship, she will stay with us all in spirit forever.

A very small family service will be held in Denver at a future date.

Perry Jackson

We are saddened to announce the passing of Perry Jackson, 85, on April 1, 2022. Perry is survived by his wife, Margaret Sue; sons, Russell (Kelly), Roger, and Neal (Nicole); and granddaughters Abigail, Jordan, and Olivia. Perry was born and raised in Farmington, N.M., where he lived until he moved his family to Albuquerque to continue his career with the telephone company where he retired after a long career. Later, he and Sue moved to Arizona to be closer to their granddaughters. Perry was an avid wood carver and an active member of the PebbleCreek Woodcarvers Group. In lieu of flowers, please share a favorite memory, photo, or a message of condolence on Legacy.com. No services will be held; memories will be shared at a gathering of immediate family in early June.

 

 

Barbara “Barb” Irene Van Trump

On March 31, 2022, Barbara “Barb” Irene Van Trump, beloved wife, mother, and friend, passed away at her home in Goodyear, Ariz. The youngest of three daughters to Roger “Pete” and Mary Hebdon Peterson, Barb was born on Dec. 11, 1954, in Caldwell, Idaho. Pete wanted a boy to take over the farm, but with three girls, he decided Barbara would have to do. As a result, duty and the hard work of running a dairy farm dominated Barb’s childhood. This upbringing may have explained her indomitable spirit and work ethic. Barb could not be deterred once she set her mind to something. A proud member of the “Iron Butt Association,” she had no trouble handling a Harley or trekking all over the country behind the wheel of a 41-foot bus.

Barb had a nomad’s spirit that drove her from her rural environs in Idaho, first to the Air Force and then to the side of her husband, William “Bill” Van Trump. Bill was a railroad man who lived on the rail and traveled wherever the work was needed, which suited Barb, and they made their first home together in a boxcar. Soon enough, Barb gave birth to Angela, whose first crib was a dresser drawer, as Bill and Barb’s travels took them from Grand Island to Omaha to St. Louis to just about every city and town in the Midwest and West.

Tragedy and trial were sometimes companions on Barb’s travels. She lost her first son, Andrew, after five challenging years of life. But Barb’s dauntless countenance carried her through the tough times.

Eventually, Barb settled down for a time in Salt Lake City. There she traded her geographic restlessness for an equally varied set of occupations. From housekeeping to real estate to running a crafts and hobby shop, she did a little bit of everything. Barb resumed her travels in retirement, living at times in Colorado, Nebraska, Washington, and Arizona. Never still for long, Barb was a voracious quilter, a proud member (and board member) of the PebbleCreek Rovin’ Pebbles RV Club, and avid mah jongg and Hand and Foot player.

Finally, at the end of her travels, Barb is survived by her husband, two children, Angela Fontes and Will “Buddy” Van Trump, and one granddaughter, Morgan Fontes. Barb’s Happy Hour was held in Sunrise Park on April 21, where neighbors and friends bid farewell to a great lady. Services will be held in Omaha, Neb., on May 23, 2022.

William Carl Brown (Bill)

William Carl Brown (Bill), 88, son of Wesley Carl and Donie Brown, passed away on March 10, 2022. Bill grew up in Kansas City, Mo., where he participated in the Boy Scouts, earning the rank of Life Scout. He graduated from Southeast High School and moved to Flint, Mich., to attend General Motors Institute, where he earned an industrial engineering degree and met his future wife, Nancy.

Following graduation, Bill and Nancy married and moved to Edgewood, Md., where Bill served in the United States Army Chemical Corps. Later he served in the Army reserve.

After going to work for General Motors, Bill continued his education, earning a master’s in engineering from University of Michigan, and a doctorate in business administration from Indiana Northern University.

His long career with GM both in the United States and in Strasbourg, France, let him work where his passion lay: cars (both new and classic). When he was manager of the Hydramatic plant in Ypsilanti, Mich., he established the first programs to help inner city workers stay on the job, to enable those with addictions to turn their lives around, and to develop women’s managerial skills and advancement potential.

In addition to work, Bill gave to the community by serving as president of the library board in Northville, Mich., as a leader at St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church in Livonia, Mich., as chairperson of United Way campaigns, and as president of the school board (where he worked to make sure girls had equal access to all classes, especially in the sciences).

When his daughters were young, he was an energetic, enthusiastic parent: a nurturer, changer, feeder, bather, and super teller of bedtime stories. When the girls were older, he supported them in their pursuit of engineering at Michigan State University and was even able to say, “Go green” when watching college football.

After retiring from General Motors, Bill pursued one of his other passions, flying. He became a licensed private pilot, and he and Nancy logged many flight miles in their Piper Archer. After they bought their home in PebbleCreek in 1998, Bill joined weekly poker groups, played tennis and golf, and met with friends for breakfast every Tuesday.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, his daughters Sheri Allen (Don Boucher) and Caralyn Brown, and grandsons Wesley Cashman (Olivia Mast) and Ian Faulkner.

A Celebration of Life will be held May 21, 2022, in the Chianti Room at 11 a.m.

Elizabeth “Betty” Fetzer

Elizabeth “Betty” Fetzer, 94, of Spearfish, S.D., passed away on March 9, 2022, at Spearfish Canyon Healthcare.

Betty lived a very full 94 years of life. The most treasured things in her life were her family, friends, and the game of golf. She played her last game of golf at the age of 90!

She is survived by her sons Ed and Leslie Sewell, Scott Sewell; granddaughter Ann Sewell; and brother Bob Sinclair and his family.

A Celebration of Life will take place in the spring. A memorial has been established.

Arrangements are under the care of Fidler-Isburg Funeral Chapels and Isburg Crematory of Spearfish. Online condolences may be written at www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com or sent to 601 Meier Ave., Spearfish, SD 57783.

Richard “Dick” E. Jacka

After being surrounded by family who shared their love with him, our husband, father, and grandfather peacefully passed away on March 9, 2022. Dick was born on Sept. 15, 1932, in San Jose, Calif., to Ellard and Eugenia Jacka and later moved to Crockett, Calif. After graduating high school, Dick joined the Navy and served for two years. He continued his education at Sacramento State College, graduating in 1958 with a degree in Political Science. He initially worked for the state of California as a Property Disposal Officer before transferring to the General Services Administration as an Area Utilization Officer, retiring in 1993.

He married his wife, Georgia Feiling, in 1957 and together they raised two children, Pamela and Bradley. Dick enjoyed traveling and listening to all kinds of music. He was an avid golfer. He was famous for scoring two holes-in-one in a three-day period at the Championship Course at Incline Village, Nev. Dick will be remembered as always having a smile on his face and reminding all that “every day is a beautiful day.” He never met a stranger—only someone he saw as a new friend.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ellard and Eugenia Jacka, and his grandson, Tyler Walsh. He leaves behind his wife of 64 years, Georgia Jacka; daughter and son-in-law, Pam and Kevin Walsh; son and daughter-in-law, Brad and Karen Jacka; and three grandchildren, Coreen Walsh Grey and husband Nigel Grey, Emily Jacka, and Collin Jacka.

The family is grateful for the care Dick received from his caregivers, Debbie Sparks and Sandy Parker, as well as the staff at Rock Creek Memory Care Facility.

A celebration of life will be held this summer at the Jacka home at Lake Tahoe.

Yvette Deleyer Nelson

Yvette Deleyer Nelson died March 7, 2022, after suffering a stroke. Yvette was 92 years old. She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald E. Nelson, age 94, 11 months earlier. Yvette was a retired elementary first grade teacher in Mankato, Minn. Yvette had recently celebrated her 67th wedding anniversary.

Mrs. Nelson is survived by three remaining sons, Kraig, K. David, and Scott, all who are living in the Valley, along with a grandson, Rylan, and her younger sister, Thama Knudson, from Omaha, Neb. Yvette was loved by all with her strong Christian faith. Her body was donated to Southwest Institute for Bio-Advancement through whole body organ and tissue donation for medical education and research. Services will be private.

Luis “Lou” J. Escajeda

Luis “Lou” J. Escajeda, beloved husband of Carole Escajeda, passed away on Sunday, March 6, 2022, in Goodyear, Ariz., at the age of 81. He was an original member of the Sandbaggers and 26-year PebbleCreek resident who loved being part of the PebbleCreek community. He is predeceased by his brothers Ruben Jr. and John, and survived by his sister, Rosemary.

Lou was born in El Paso, Texas, in 1940, the son of Ruben and Leonor Escajeda. He loved his family and friends, and was always known to be an outgoing group member. He joined the Air Force in 1958 and loved military service from the start. While stationed in Gander, Newfoundland, he met his first wife, Margaret, with whom he had three children: Annette, age 59; Yvonne, age 57; and Karina, age 46. He graduated from Florida State in 1969 with a B.S. in Meteorology, and completed Officer Training School in Illinois in 1970. Of all his posts, he most loved his time in Germany at Ansbach AFB with the Weather Squadron. His favorite activities were sightseeing with his family and collecting beer steins from biergartens. After his divorce, he retired from the Air Force as a Captain in 1981. His last assignment was at Onizuka AFB in Sunnyvale, Calif. Among his many commendations, he received a small arms expert marksmanship ribbon. As much as he loved the military, retirement allowed him to grow a beard—one that he had for the rest of his life.

After active duty, Lou joined General Electric as a computer programmer. There he met his wife Carole through lunchtime runs together while she trained for the San Francisco Bay to Breakers 10K. This led to nine Bay to Breakers runs together and over 40 years of togetherness. Lou loved sports and activities, going out often with Carole and many friends to GE group events. He loved to cheer on the SF Giants and Oakland A’s after tailgating. Lou was also a diehard Dallas Cowboys fan, and loved his household rivalry with Carole’s beloved Philadelphia Eagles. Before full retirement, he missed the ‘weatherman life,’ and was a meteorologist for the U.S. Weather Service at the San Francisco airport (SFO). He enjoyed work with purpose and with a sense of exactitude.

After moving to PebbleCreek in 1996, Lou became a founding member of the Sandbaggers. He regularly volunteered with the Red Cross in their records department at Luke AFB. He contributed to many charities and philanthropic initiatives, as evidenced by the many requests for donations that arrive on a daily basis. In later years, Lou was often found laughing along with Big Bang Theory and Friends. Lou is survived by three children: Annette Koziol of Brunswick, Maine; Yvonne Fox of San Jose, Calif.; and Karina Escajeda of Kents Hill, Maine; plus two stepchildren: Beverly White of Eagleville, Penn.; and Christopher Walker, of El Dorado Hills, Calif.; in addition to 10 grandchildren, and 22 great-grandchildren.