In memoriam: Funeral notices, May 23, 2021

ALCANTAR, Olga C.

of Tucson passed away peacefully on May 10, 2021. Olga was born in Bisbee, AZ, on January 23, 1939. Survived by husband, George; son, George Jr. (Joyce); granddaughters, Gia and Sabrina; great-grandsons, Jovon and Joel; sister, Yesmin Bell and many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by daughter, Cynthia; sisters, Norma, Gloria, Pearl and parents. Mass will be held at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, at 11:00 a.m.

BENNETT, Carole (Smith)

72, Carole was a blessing sent from heaven but was called to return back to our Lord and Savior's loving arms on May 9, 2021.

Carole Bennett (Smith) was born Carole Zumwalt to Leonard Sr. and Bessie Zumwalt on February 24, 1949 in Deming, New Mexico as a sibling to Vera, Leonard, George, and Judy. Carole is remembered as a true spitfire who would lend a helping hand to anyone. She was either flipping you the bird or giving you a hug - both served with an endearing smile and ornery giggle.

Carole grew up in Deming, spending most of her childhood helping on the farm, attending school, and hanging out with her friends.

Carole married Kenneth Don Bennett and moved to Arizona. Years later, when she returned to Deming, she married Jim Smith. She worked at the Luna County Assessor's Office and then the Luna County Road Department where she retired from in 2019.

Carole was an active member of the Deming community where she helped with the Luna County Crime Stoppers, was a member of the Moose Lodge, and helped with the Sunshine Class Reunions for several years. If you had the honor of meeting Carole, you'd surely never forget her.

Carole loved spending her time hunting, camping, and fishing. She could be found sitting on her front porch sharing memories with friends and family when the wind permitted - but her door was always open for a cup of coffee or a margarita. Carole lived her life her way, and to the fullest. One of her greatest treasures in this life was her friendship with Bill, Donna, and Carol and their regular trips to Palomas and the Winery.

On May 9, 2021, Carole left this world to surprise her mother for a long-awaited heavenly Mother's Day reunion. Her absence on Earth leaves a hole in many hearts that will never be filled.

Carole is survived by her four children, Kelli Ribbeck (Mike), Deanna Bennett, Kenneth Bennett (Diana) and Tara Arias (Lonnie); her 12 grandchildren, Tim and Kelsey (Kelli); Ashley, Randy and Amber (Deanna); Desiree, Kristina, Destiny, Kenny, Caitlin and David (Kenneth); and Cassie (Tara); 18 great-grandchildren, Jake, Zach, Isaiah, Marissa, Winter, Harley, Taylor, Renezmee, Prince, Maxi, Anddon, Ayden, Alecc, Amariah, Arlo, Bryson, Keelin and Ryett; one great-great grandson, Ezekiel; three stepchildren and several nieces and nephews and many who called her Ma or Grams.

Carole is preceded in death by her parents, four siblings, and numerous loved ones.

A Celebration of her beautiful life will be held on Saturday, June 26, 2021 at the family's property located in Deming, New Mexico. Cremation was entrusted to BACA'S MIMBRES CREMATORY.

In Loving Memory of

CASTRO, Rudy A.

Dear Dad/Rudy, it was four years ago that we said our good-byes. It seems like it was just yesterday that we would all enjoy a cookout with ribs, potato salad, salsa, and tortillas to enjoy a beautiful weekend together, but many things have changed. Mom, Carol, you're "Viejita," as you affectionately called her, wishes that you were still here, and still talks to you daily. She reminisces about the many adventures that you both had and longs for your sweet conversations, handholding, long hugs, and special kisses. Fifty-two years together went entirely too quickly, from her perspective. She has been doing a great job with the new house, and adds her special little touches, as she always has. I think of you daily, Dad, and often I am challenged with the fact that you aren't here, my sisters miss having your loving direction, your granddaughter is taking good care of the house that we grew up in, and all of your grandchildren and great-grandchildren are making a good name for themselves. We all miss you so much that it hurts, but we know that one day we will all be together for another Carne Asada up there in heaven. We all love you so much, and hope you continue to watch over us with those great big brown eyes and your boisterous laugh. Until we can all be together again, and you greet us at heaven's gate,

Your Loving Family and Loving Daughter, Julie

In Loving Memory of

CODDIE, Ethel

To our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt, we remember you as a wonderful blessing in our lives. You are always in our hearts and prayers. May the winds of heaven blow softly and whisper loving thoughts to your beautiful spirit.

Forever in our thoughts

and prayers,

Your loving Family,

Coddie, Diggs & Morrison

CZECH, Richard "Dick" Leo

died peacefully in Casa de Luz Hospice Care on May 7, 2021 in Tucson, AZ at the age of 87.

Richard is survived by his wife of 35 years, Karen and his children, Barbara Daniels (Angelo), Theresa Molinek (Keith), Karen Friel (David), Susanna Chapman (William), Alice Balkow (Jerry) and Stephen Czech (Jennifer) and stepchildren, Katie Anderson (Bob), Ben Anderson plus 21 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.

Richard was born on June 7, 1933 in Port Huron, Michigan to the late Stephen and Martha Czech of Danzig, Germany. He was preceded in death by his brothers, John and Curt Czech. He married Jean Mary Maes in 1955 and they had six children. Jean and Richard were married for 29 years before her death in 1984. He worked as bricklayer in Port Huron before moving to Tucson in 1961.

He joined the Tucson Police Department in 1963. During his career with the Tucson Police Department he had many achievements while working his way up through the ranks. Some of his accomplishments include Adam 1 Unit (Community Policing), K-9 Unit, SWAT Team Leader, Air Unit, Recruit Training Academy and prior to retirement in 1986, he was Bureau Commander Captain. Additionally, during this time he received his Bachelor's Degree from St. Mary's College and later his Master's Degree from the University of Arizona in Public Administration. Richard was also a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Academy.

In 1987, Richard was appointed Chief of Police for the Midland Texas Police Department. He and Karen resided in Midland until he again retired in 1997. He was very popular with the City of Midland and its citizens. This may be attributed to an event that occurred within his first year as chief. A little girl named Jessica fell down an abandoned well. This incident became a national news story and Chief Czech took charge with one goal, rescue little Jessica.

After his retirement from Midland, he and his wife returned to Tucson to be closer to family and friends.

Richard was an accomplished bricklayer and actually built the family home, doing all the plumbing and electrical as well as brick work. He is known for his great Super Bowl parties and many family gatherings. He loved his family and enjoyed time with them. He was an active member of St Odilia's Catholic Community as a Knight of Columbus and Eucharistic minister. He was a member of the Elks Lodge 385 and a lifetime member of the Fraternal Order of Police.

A Funeral is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 26, 2021 with Visitation on Tuesday, May 25, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. and Rosary at 7:00 p.m. at St. Odilia's Catholic Church, 7570 N. Paseo del Norte. A reception will be held at Elks Lodge #385, 1800 N. Oracle Rd. from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to The 100 Club, supporting fallen Police Officers or Catholic Community Services of So. AZ. The family would like to thank the caregivers and hospital staff for their compassion and care during his last days. Arrangements by ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Avalon Chapel.

DARLING, Mary Ann

was born in Passaic, New Jersey on May 9, 1935 and lived until May 6, 2021. She was born to Edna and Dudley Shepard, joining her brother Bob. Their home was in Nutley, New Jersey.

Mary Ann and her mom shared a love for making friends, entertaining, and roller coasters. Both were talented, wise and wonderful, and gifted with the ability to see the good in people and make them feel special. Edna's example showed Mary Ann how to have a friend and be a friend. She learned her lesson well. Mary Ann had hundreds of friends throughout her life, including Audrey (Anderson) Librizzi, who's friendship started in a sandbox at three years of age. They continued as best friends for 83 more years.

A "Daddy's Girl," and proud of it, Mary Ann found her father's love as close to perfect love as one could find. Dudley treated his daughter as a person, which was unusual in that day. He always encouraged Mary Ann in her love for math, even though it was considered a "male" subject. They shared a love for the Yankees, fishing and dessert-dessert. Mary Ann knew her father as a loving, giving, generous, selfless man . . . she was her father's daughter.

Mary Ann adored her big brother, Bob, 11 years her elder. And Bob cherished Mary Ann. He taught her many things: how to swim, how to dive, how to spit and how to whistle. Additionally, Bob taught her important life lessons including, when someone asks you to look into the end of a garden hose, don't do it, which Mary Ann was able to pass on to her own children and grandchildren. Bob married Mary Frobose, and Mary Ann soon became the beloved "Auntie" to their children, Mary Ann (her namesake), Nancy, Bob and Betsy. A mutual love affair.

With no living grandparents, Mary Ann was adopted as a granddaughter by three of her mother's friends, as well as her Aunt Gussie and Uncle Neil. They all doted on, loved on and spoiled Mary Ann as their own, and she held dear that she was thoroughly loved by them all.

Mary Ann attended Spring Garden and Yantacaw Elementary Schools, Nutley Junior High and Nutley High School, where she amassed "oodles" of friends: the boys next door, Johnny and Freddy; "The Girls," Reenie, Pat, Joan, Mary, Carolyn, Jo Ann; The "Jersey Girls," Jane, Cynthia, Audrey, Judy, Barbara, Vera Jane; the neighborhood girls, Winnie, Lynn, Babs, another Jane, and Gain; and the DD's (identity unknown due to sworn secrecy). Our "Jersey Girl," Mary Ann loved the ocean (NOT the Pacific), and spent many a summer with her girlfriends on Normandy Beach at the Jersey Shore. She also waited tables at the Normandy Inn for a little extra spending money.

In 1953, Mary Ann was off to college, attending St. Lawrence University in Canton, New York, were she was a math major, science minor, President of the Alpha Delta Pi sorority, learned to ski and enjoyed watching her Saints play ice hockey. Upon graduation in 1957, Mary Ann returned to Nutley to teach math at Nutley Junior High.

Mary Ann married Ralph Darling, Jr., in May of 1958. Mary Ann and Ralph had met in college, were married and then moved to Potomac, Maryland, for Ralph's work. As a girl, Mary Ann loved playing dolls and paper dolls. All she ever wanted to be when she grew up was a mom. And an incredible mom she was to Linda (her favorite), Sue (her favorite), Gary (her favorite), Rob (her favorite) and Sally (her favorite). She loved, comforted, cheered for, and inspired her children and made them laugh. Most of all, she made each feel special. Mary Ann grew up in a neighborhood overflowing with love, joy and a zillion playmates, so she made sure her kids did too. In addition to being an incredible mom to the Darling kids, she was a remarkable next-door, neighborhood, friend, teammate, and community mom. Mary Ann belonged to a wonderful, close-knit bridge club, was a member of the Potomac Garden Club, and was a beloved neighbor.

Mary Ann's family moved to Tucson, Arizona in 1977. Mary Ann picked up where she left off, making numerous Tucson friends, including Marj Jorden. Mary Ann met Marj at Christ the King Church. Their friendship was instant and lasted a lifetime. Marj took pure delight in Mary Ann's happiness and accomplishments, also feeling her pain. Marj's selfless, giving, generous, loving spirit reminded Mary Ann of her father, Dudley. Marj was the sister Mary Ann always longed for. Mary Ann and Marj took their sister act to St. Philip's in the Hills Episcopal Church where they did epic work for the Altar Guild and Ministry for Education. Mary Ann was also a lay-reader and chalice bearer. Her volunteer work in the community included work for Easter Seal's, Salvation Army, Shalom House, feeding the hungry at St. Martin's Center and sharing her love for math as a classroom math aide.

Anyone who didn't know Mary Ann, need only meet her ten grandchildren to feel her essence. They spent "Monday's with Gramma" and went on special trips with her to San Diego and Disneyland. In addition to radiating Mary Ann's kind and generous spirit, each shares her sense of play, love for fun and adventure (and roller coasters), creativity, and her genuine capacity for loving and being a good friend.

Mary Ann spent the last 20 years living, laughing, eating out and traveling with a wonderful man, Edgar Dunn, who showered her with love and affection, and protected and cared for her in her final years.

Enduring love and gratitude to Mary Ann's caregivers, Maria Hill, Marcia Radcliff, Eva Garcia, Dolores Hernandez, Brenda, Mev and Francesca. Heartfelt thanks also to the loving staff and friends at Villa Hermosa Senior Living and Casa De La Luz Hospice.

Mary Ann was preceded in death by Edna Shepard, Dudley Shepard, Bob Shepard, Mary (Frobose) Shepard, and her loyal dog Gracie.

Mary Ann is survived by her partner, Edgar Dunn; her children, Linda Caverly, Sue Darling, Gary Darling, Rob Darling, Sally Bockisch; their father, Ralph Darling, Jr.; her beloved daughters-in-law, Sandy Darling and Jeana Darling, and her sons-in-law, Michael Caverly and Eric Bockisch; her grandchildren, Lara Darling, Stephen Caverly, Marc Darling, Dean (Kelsey) Caverly, Anna Darling, Lizzie Caverly, Scott Bockisch, Heidi Bockisch, Natalie Darling, Matthew Darling; her nieces and nephew, Mary Ann (Bob) Romas, Nancy (Butch) Luxton, Bob (Terry) Shepard, Betsy (Mike) Stoffers; her goddaughter, Joanne Librizzi Cyphers; and oodles of friends including, Audrey Librizzi and Marj Jorden.

Services will be at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 12, 2021, at St. Philip's in the Hills Episcopal Church. Refreshments to follow. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Mary Ann's name to The Arthritis Foundation. Arrangements by ABBEY FUNERAL CHAPEL.

GODWIN, James Jr.

Mentally in control until the very end, Jim Godwin made the decision to go into hospice and passed away at Peppi's House in the early morning hours of Friday, May 7, 2021, following nearly two weeks in the hospital. He was 84. He is survived by his wife, Cindy and their daughter, Kelly and his former wife, Janis and their daughters, Deborah and Teresa; grandsons, Samuel and his wife, Lacey and Lucas and great-grandson, Harrison. He had many treasured friends who became like family.

The only child of Ruby Frances and James Godwin Sr. Jim was born in Indiana. The family moved to Alabama where he attended school in Bay Minette and then Mobile. He started working at 13, selling Nehi soft drinks to the construction workers on his dad's job sites. He attended Murphy High School where he played football and baseball and lettered in both sports three years, graduating in 1955. Jim worked as a construction laborer during high school, then became a carpenter's apprentice and joined the carpenters' union after high school.

His parents moved back to Indiana and he enrolled at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology to pursue a degree in civil engineering. While at Rose-Hulman he played football and baseball (pitching a no-hitter), and joined Alpha Tau Omega fraternity. "Bama," as he was known among his classmates, served as Secretary of his ATO chapter and President of the Senior Class.

He graduated from Rose-Hulman in 1961 with a B.S. in Civil Engineering and took a position with Indiana Bell Telephone Co. While working with Indiana Bell he completed a Master's in Business Administration at Indiana University. Upon completing his MBA, he went to work for Industrial Nucleonics in Columbus, Ohio as Vice President of Facilities and Services.

Jim met the architect Charles A. Nitschke in 1968 while supervising the construction of a residence for Industrial Nucleonics Chairman Wilbert E. Chope on Cape Cod. He became a partner in C.A. Nitschke & Associates, leaving Industrial Nucleonics to join the architectural firm full-time in 1972. The firm became Godwin-Bohm-NBBJ in 1979 when Jim managed the merger of the firm with Seattle-based architectural firm NBBJ. In 1980, Jim left Columbus to take a position as President of Cella Barr & Evans in Tucson. He and Cindy married in June that year. Soon Jim became CEO and the firm changed its name to Cella Barr Associates (CBA). While with the engineering firm, Jim oversaw its expansion in Phoenix and the addition of offices in Las Vegas, Nevada and Sacramento, California, and the addition of mechanical and electrical engineering services.

Jim contracted Guillain Barre Syndrome in November of 1992, spending months in the hospital, and experiencing a lengthy rehabilitation to be able to walk again. He returned to work in 1993 and saw the firm grow to be listed in the ENR 500 with 180 employees. In 1999 CBA was sold to Stantec, an engineering services company founded in Canada. Jim was able to retire, and he was ready! He had figured out how to play golf again (which was his favorite pastime), and attended UA basketball games, planned vacations and travelled, and spent time with family and friends enjoying wine, good food and Haagen Dazs ice cream. He was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in 2015, but never complained and continued to show his determination to make the best of what he had to work with. His resolve was to "Be Happy."

Jim was a member of Tucson Country Club where he played golf for many years and especially enjoyed the "Over the Hill Gang." His memberships included Centurions, Rotary Club of Tucson, The Breakfast Club, Wildcat Club, UA President's Society and Skyline Country Club. He served on the Board of Directors of Carondelet, Arizona Children's Home, St. Mary's Foundation, United Way, Pima Community College Foundation and the Tucson Chamber of Commerce

He was an inspiration and hero to many. Everybody liked Jim. He was strong, determined, smart, analytical, patient, responsible, generous, humble and had a great sense of humor. He was direct, and you never had to wonder what he was really thinking—he told you, whether you liked it or not. What he loved most was bringing joy to other people, especially his wife. And she knows how fortunate she was to be married to him.

True to his personality, Jim wanted a party instead of a memorial or celebration of life, and he will be there in spirit having a glass of wine and enjoying the company. If you'd like to join us at the party, please let Cindy know. If you want to make a donation in his memory, the most fitting donation you could make would be to Parkinson's Wellness Recovery Gym (also known as PWR! Gym), where Jim learned how to take on Parkinson's in the same way he overcame many of the limitations from Guillain Barre Syndrome. Arrangements by ANGEL VALLEY FUNERAL HOME.

GOMEZ, Dolores "Chicky" Bonillas

Went to be with our Lord and Savior on April 30, 2021. Survived by her husband of 46 years, Robert "Bobby" Gomez. She was a beautiful, giving woman and will be missed by all. Chicky was loved by all who knew her especially her family. Services will be on Wednesday, May 26, 2021 at Santa Cruz Church, Mass at 11:00 a.m. Burial following at Holy Hope Cemetery 12:30 p.m. Arrangements by MARTINEZ FUNERAL CHAPELS.

GRASSMEYER, Betty Jean

Professor Emerita of Education, passed away, surrounded by family, on May 17, 2021. She was a remarkable woman. She was born in Hannibal, MO on October 11, 1929 to Milburn and Talitha Shaw. She attended public school in Hannibal, Janesville, WI, Chariton, IA and Aurora, NE. After graduation from Aurora High School she attended Kearney State Teachers College. She was an active coed: Gamma Phi Beta sorority, cheerleader, homecoming attendant, Mortar Board and student union employee. At Kearney State Betty met Don Grassmeyer and they were married in 1951, a month before they both graduated and Don was recalled into the Navy during the Korean Conflict. Betty began her teaching career in Lexington, NE and when Don returned from the service they both taught in Elwood, NE. Their infant daughter, Heidi Jo, died in 1956. Don became the Superintendent of Schools in Republican City, NE and their daughter Jodi Leigh was born in 1958. The family moved to Lincoln, NE in 1961 so that Don could pursue his doctorate degree at the University of Nebraska and he became the Principal of Irving Junior High School. Betty was a Brownie leader, Sunday School teacher and stay-at-home mom until Jodi began junior high. Then Betty pursued her graduate studies at the University of Nebraska and accepted a position on the Nebraska Wesleyan faculty in the Education Department in 1973. Betty was very active in educational organizations: Phi Delta Kappa, Kappa Delta Pi, Alpha Delta Kappa and was an advocate for students with disabilities. Betty retired from Nebraska Wesleyan in 1993 and the couple moved to Saddlebrooke in Tucson, AZ. After Don's death in 1997 Betty spent her time golfing, playing cards and traveling with friends and her daughter and son-in-law. With the arrival of her two grandsons, Casey Don and Will Henry Way, Betty's real life began as a Nana to the absolute loves of her life. Her joy with them for 20 years was the best chapter of her life and she would have lived forever if it was determined by her love for her grandsons. She was a Charter Member of the Splendido at Rancho Vistoso retirement community as of 2006 and enjoyed her friends and the staff at Splendido for 15 years. Betty was an avid sports fan: Nebraska football (season tickets since 1961), Arizona football and Arizona Women's basketball (new season ticketholder as of 2019), Suns basketball and Diamondbacks baseball. Her absolute favorite team, however, was the Pusch Ridge Christian Academy Lions football team. She was a presence in the stands at all home, away and play-off games and so enjoyed the State Championship season in 2015 and the runner-up season in 2017 when Casey, #79, was playing. One of the highlights of her life was being the motivational speaker for the team prior to their 2018 play-off game. In 2019 and 2020 she was in the stands cheering loudly for her grandson Will Henry, #44, and had already put the 2021 football schedule on her calendar. Betty was a member of Resurrection Lutheran Church. She is survived by her daughter, Jodi Grassmeyer; son-in-law, Andrew Way; grandsons, Casey Don Way and Will Henry Way; sister, Marilyn Swiler (Lincoln, NE); 11 nieces and nephews, two cousins and six step-grand-children and their families. A celebration of her life will be held at Resurrection Lutheran Church, 11575 N. First Avenue, Oro Valley, on Tuesday, June 15, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. Memorials may be made to: The Donald L. and Betty J. Grassmeyer Fund c/o The University of Nebraska Foundation, PO Box 82555, Lincoln, NE 68505. We ended every conversation with "Love you, Nana" and she always said "Love you more". Now it's our turn to say "Love you more" … Arrangements by VISTOSO FUNERAL HOME.

HILL, Chad Aaron

Sunrise: August 5, 1985

Sunset: April 22, 2021

Chad Aaron Hill, native Tucsonan, was preceded in death by his grandparents, Charles and Jeannie Farrington; grandmother, Patricia Horton; grandfather, Walter Hill.

Chad was devastated by the untimely deaths of his only siblings, Jared Dustin Hill (3/25/1984 - 3/23/2015) and Brandon Barrow Hill (7/1/1980--3/16/2021).

"RIP our BJCs" -- Mom and Dad

Chad is survived by his parents Wendell and Sheri Hill; auntie, Sondra Farrington; great-aunt, Helen Smith and his six beloved children, Dominic Hill (11), Jaianna Hill (10), Dez Hill (7), Eliza Lynae Hill (5), Chad Aaron Hill II (27 mos), Leiliana Hill (18 mos) and a loving family.

Services: Monday, May 24, 2021, EAST LAWN PALMS MORTUARY, 5801 E. Grant Rd., Tucson AZ. 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. (Drive-by Service); 10:30 a.m. (Chapel Service will be livestreamed; link to appear at 10:20 a.m. at http://eastlawnpalmsmortuary.com and later uploaded to the East Lawn Palms website).In lieu of flowers, the family suggests: A donation to a fundraiser on Facebook for the 6 "ChadKids" who have suddenly lost their father at https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=136185238531119&id=100005616375448; CashApp $BJCforever; or Homicide Survivors Inc., 2315 E. Speedway, Tucson, AZ, 85719, 520-207-5012 hsi@azhomicidesurvivors

LEONARD, Roland Bennie

It is with great sadness that the family of Roland Bennie Leonard announces his passing after a very brief illness, on Friday, April 23, 2021, at the age of 93 years in Tucson, AZ. Roland is lovingly remembered by his children, Marianne, Jeff, and Lorelei and also, fondly remembered by his five grandchildren, Kenny, Kelly, Matt, Mike and Trevor and two great-grandchildren, Brayden and Dylan and also, lovingly remembered by his companion, Elaine Kennedy.

A native of Rock Creek, Ohio, Roland's life seemed destined for service from the very beginning. He proudly served aboard the vital Liberty ships that powered the Allied war effort during World War II as a member of the US Merchant Marine.

After the war ended, Roland decided upon the sunny climes of Ventura, CA, which led him to start a 37-year career in the field with Southern California Edison (SCE) serving customers throughout Ventura County. Later in life, Roland became a member of the Masonic lodge and Shriners International, serving in a variety of positions that benefited those in need in the community, especially children. Roland rose to the 32-degree and became the Grandmaster of the Solvang Masonic Lodge 701 in 1992.

Upon retirement from SCE, Roland relocated to Buellton, CA, where he started a Christmas tree farm, Whispering Pines, and this mostly seasonal advocation allowed him to pursue his passion for building new structures, renovating real estate properties, and helping first-time buyers get their first home.

In 2006, Roland moved to Tucson, AZ, where he spent the next 15 of his Golden years continuing his efforts in the local community by assisting renters to become first-time home buyers, working to improve his own properties by overseeing and employing local tradesmen in his construction projects, and mentoring members of the local real estate firms by freely sharing his decades of real estate and construction experience with them. Roland will be sorely missed in the community, by his friends and associates, and by his family.

As a living tribute to Roland, the Leonard clan has planted ten trees in the Sierra National Forest in his memory.

MINOR, Alfred

died early Saturday morning, April 24, 2021. He was born August 27, 1951, in Williams, AZ. He was the son of Jerry Minor Sr., of Grimes County, TX and Floice Thelma Espy, of Fannin County, TX. He was predeceased by his parents; three brothers, James Carl Johnson, Jr. of Floyada, TX, Odell Johnson of Sherman, TX, Jerry Minor Jr. (#1) of Grimes County, TX and a stepbrother, Danny Herbert Lopez, son of Minnie Martin; four sisters, Mrs. Jewel Riggins (Johnson) of Sherman, TX, Mrs. Lola Virginia Murkledove (Brown) of Amarillo, TX, Freddie Mae Minor, formerly of Williams, AZ and Mrs. Alta Mae Picou of San Antonio, TX and a stepsister, Rose Marie Lopez (Cheta) of Tucson.

Surviving him are his wife, Brenda L. Minor, of the home; his daughter, Rebecca L. Minor and his two sons, Alfred Lopez-Minor and Michael Lopez-Minor, all of Tucson; three siblings, a brother, Jerry Minor Jr. (#2) of Tucson, AZ; a sister, Inez Coleman and little brother, Joseph Minor, son of Katherine Mendez, all of Tucson; he leaves five grandchildren, Victoria, Kyle, Sienna, Penny and Emma. He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews and a lot of good friends and neighbors too.

He attended Pueblo H.S. and left public school to join the Job Corps in Oak Glenn, CA. His course of study was Firefighting and Auto mechanics. Alfred was in the U.S. Army and he served 1-year in Sweinfurt, Germany. He was discharged in March 1972.Auf wiedersehen, Alfred. We will be missing you.

Visitation is from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., at FUNERARIA DEL ANGEL, 7 East University. Funeral follows at 12:30 p.m. at Evergreen Cemetery. Call for directions 520-461-2465.

MOLER, David Stefan

Tucson High graduate David Moler, of Phoenix, passed away at the age of 80 on Sunday, May 16, 2021. He is survived by his wife, Judy Ewing Moler and sons, Paul, who resides in Oklahoma, and Geoffrey, who resides both in Michigan and in Phoenix; as well as sisters, Marcia and Ann. He was retired from United Airlines after nearly 38 years of service. A Memorial Service will be held at SHADOW MOUNTAIN MORTUARY in Phoenix on Monday, June 21, 2021 at 11:00 a.m.

NASH , Kimberly Rose

2/23/1982 - 5/5/2021

Our beloved Kim passed away after a courageous 3-years battle against cancer on May 5, 2021.Kim was born in Sierra Vista, AZ on February 23, 1982 with Down Syndrome. She always believed she could succeed in anything she wanted to do. She was an avid participant in Challenger Little League and Special Olympics sports. Kim loved any U of A sports teams as well as her Arizona Diamondbacks.After graduating from Marana High School in 2002, Kim became a courtesy clerk at Basha's supermarket. She loved going to work, camping, country music and participating in the downtown Maynard's walk, but it was her wonderful sense of humor that made her who she was.Kim is survived by her parents, Gary and Cathy Nash; brother, Chris, aunts and uncles, Anna (Fran) Sherlock, Marilyn (David) Nielsen, Brenda (George) Mignon, Mike Bauer, Eileen (Mike) Pechulis, Leigh (Frank) Turner, Belinda (Jay) Smith and cousins Diane, Jennifer, Sara, Rachel, Laura, Melissa, Jacob, Ryan, Katie, Will, Jason and Tyler.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be sent to Northwest Tucson Special Olympics, 3340 N. Country Club, #102, Tucson, AZ 85716 or Casa de la Luz, 7740 N. Oracle Rd., Tucson, AZ 85704.There will be a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 27, 2021 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 8650 N. Shannon Rd., Tucson, AZ 85742. Arrangements by ADAIR FUNERAL HOME, Avalon Chapel.

O'BRIEN, Barbara "Victoria Rose"

died peacefully in her sleep May 17, 2021 at her daughter Sharon's home in Tucson. Barbara was her own unique version of a self-made woman. Her early years were spent in the tenement apartments of Brooklyn as the youngest daughter of Max and Ruth Vegodsky, immigrants from Eastern Europe. Books were a constant friend and helped her envision a world beyond New York. Making her way to Tucson in the early 50s, Barbara earned a degree at the UofA, the first in her family to do so. While swimming one day at the Jewish Community Center, her big brown eyes and sexy red bathing suit caught the attention of Alan O'Brien, a tall and good-looking guy who drove a white Cadillac convertible; she eloped with him to Las Vegas in 1961. Babies arrived - Liz, Sharon and Mollie. Her Tucson roots grew deeper still as she nurtured diverse friendships, joined the first docent class at the Desert Museum (igniting her love of spiders and snakes), and along with Alan, hosted innumerable guests, parties, holidays, and weddings; their home was open to all who wanted or needed it.

As her daughters grew, Barbara went to work, beautifying homes and offices around Tucson with flowers and other graphic designs. She returned to the UofA in the mid-80s, earning a masters degree in library sciences and embarking on a rich and rewarding career as the librarian at Robison Elementary School. She delighted in those years of dressing up as a witch or a cat, reading to kids, and making her library a creative place of welcoming for curious students and teachers alike.

Sons-in-law Steve and Kipp joined the family and she was forever smitten with the gentle teasing they shared with her. Her grandkids arrived in the 90s - Eli and Ruby - and she reveled in her new role as Bebe, the cute, mischievous, and devoted grandma.

Barbara thrived in the company of others. She and Alan enjoyed years of hosting friends and family at their cabin in Puerto Peñasco, on their front porch at the 'Cawfee Tawk' Café, and for annual Super Bowl, Halloween, and Academy Awards gatherings. Barbara traveled, she cooked, she created art, she adored cats, she danced uninhibitedly, she mentored, she listened, she shared deep wisdom, she accepted you as you were, she made you laugh, she excelled at Jumble, she relished her nightly vodka martini with a big juicy green olive, she had a passion for a bowl of whipped cream, and she was generous with everything she had. The love came back to her in return from people far and wide, including so many of you - her mishpucha - reading this today. You know who you are. Arrangements by ANGEL VALLEY FUNERAL HOME.

PHILLIPS, Barbara Rose

Samovoski

December 25, 1921 - May 16, 2021

She was the seventh of eight children. Bob or Bobbe, as she was known by family and friends, had five sisters and two brothers. She grew up and lived in the Pittsburgh area for 20 years until World War II broke out. She went to Washington D.C. to visit her sister, Ann, who was working at the Pentagon. Falling in love with the city she decided to stay and get a job. Bobbe met her future husband, Dean LaVon Phillips, who was with TWA but serving in the Air Transport Command. The US didn't have an air force at the time, so the commercial pilots were hired by the government. After the war in Europe was over, the pilots went back to the airlines where Dean became a captain with TWA. He was with them for 36 years. Bobbe and Dean had three children, Dean Robert, Dawn Carol and Terry Lee. The family travelled extensively in the US and around the world. They lived in DC, Virginia, Independence, MO (Truman's hometown), in the Chicago area for 21 years, then moved to the Bahamas for five years before retiring to Tucson. After 65 years of marriage, Dean passed away. Bobbe stayed in Tucson and filled her life with church work, tutoring first and second graders, gardening and needlework. She lived to be 99. Family members preceding them in death were their son, Lt. Col. Dean Robert (of the National Guard and US Air Force), his wife, Nancy Carlin Phillips; daughter, Terry Lee and grandson, James O'Brien Post. Surviving members of the family are daughter, Dawn Carol Post; grandsons, Samuel Robert Post and his daughter, Abigail James Post, Stephen LaVon Post (Lisa Post) and their children, Cooper James Post and Sarah Nicole Post; grandson, Dean Andrew Phillips; granddaughter, Barbara Lenore Phillips and many lovely family members in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania and Nephi, Utah. At Barbara's request services will be private. Arrangements by BRING'S BROADWAY CHAPEL.

RAPPAPORT, Ruth

Passed away on May 3, 2021.

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She was the wife of the late Harold Rappaport

and the mother of Deborah, Susan and Caryl.

She was a proud mother and grandmother and is survived by her three daughters, four grandchildren

and two great-grandchildren.

She was born and raised in Philadelphia

and spent the last 35 years in Tucson.

Ruth will be remembered as a kind-hearted and gracious woman and will be missed by all.

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Arrangements by EVERGREEN MORTUARY.

VELASCO, Valdemar Gilbert

Val, 73, died on February 25, 2021. Born in Phoenix, lived in Mesa and later resided in Tucson. He was known for being one hell of a handball player.

He played at the Arizona Athletic Club, Tucson Racquet Club, Cochise Racquet Club and Flagstaff Athletic Club. My dad loved being around people, always smiling and laughing. Known for being a great friend and an excellent listener. Arrangements by CARRILLO'S TUCSON MORTUARY.