In Passing – October 2024

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.

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.

A Funeral Mass was held Sept. 20 at St. Thomas Aquinas in Avondale. 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.

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.