In memoriam: Funeral notices, April 11, 2021

ALSPACH, Denis (Denny) Keyes

81. Born May 17, 1939, in Ohio to James T. and Eloise Keyes and died March 18, 2021, in Phoenix, AZ, peacefully in her sleep. Denny is survived by her husband of 58 years, Don (Dave); daughter, Lindsay Alspach of Albuquerque, NM; daughter, Megan Dart (Bryan) of Phoenix, AZ; brother, David Keyes (Roberta) of Gig Harbor, WA; cousin, O.J. Wilkinson (Iclia) of Paradise Valley, AZ; cousin, Barbara Sutak, of Napa, CA; cousin, Peg Cann (Nick) of Napa, CA; numerous nieces, nephews and ever faithful canine companion, Buster. Denny grew up in Lubbock, TX, and later Arcadia, CA, where she graduated from Arcadia High School in 1957. She was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta women's fraternity at the University of Arizona where she met her husband and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Art. After graduation she worked as a technical illustrator at Hewlett-Packard, back when it was just 'Dave and Bill on the hill' in Palo Alto, CA. Her husband became an airline pilot and in 1972 they moved to Paradise Valley, AZ, (before it was known as "PV") where they were active members of Paradise Valley United Methodist Church and ran a successful antique shop for many years before moving to Sanibel Island, FL, after falling in love with beach life on vacation. They were one of the first home owners in Seagull Estates on Sanibel but sadly, while living in FL, Denny contracted viral encephalitis which left her with lifelong debilitating memory and health challenges. Dave retired to help take care of her and they moved to Tucson to better enjoy season tickets to the many collegiate sports while spending their summers at Rainbow Lake in Lakeside, AZ. Her last move was to Phoenix in June 2020 to be closer to family. Denny had a wicked sense of humor and loved a good joke. She was known for her ready wit and her laughter was a source of delight to her long-time friends. She also was lovingly known for not holding back her opinion and for being a card-carrying member of the grammar police. Denny was very artistic and had an amazing eye for interior design. She loved animals, creating art, reading, winning card games, making homemade greeting cards, birding, antiquing, and watching University of Arizona sports (Go Cats!). The family would like to thank her neurologist of more than 25 years, Dr. David Labiner of Tucson, AZ, whom they credit with finding the solution to controlling Denny's seizure disorder. They also would like to thank her Primary Care Physician Dr. Cory Buschmann, Phoenix, AZ, for being a source of strength and support. The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation for all the sympathy, comforting words, prayers, and expressions of kindness and concern. Over the years, Denny was involved with many different charities and organizations including the Kappa Alpha Theta Foundation, P.E.O., Assistance League of Tucson, and P.A.W.S. to name just a few. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to one of her two favorite charities, Heifer International or Stealing Hearts Rescue Phoenix, AZ. We encourage everyone to please join us for a celebration of Denny's life on Saturday, October 16, 2021, at 11 a.m. in the old chapel at Paradise Valley United Methodist Church Paradise Valley, AZ, followed by a gathering at the family home with more details being announced later. 1 CORINTHIANS 13:13 And now, these three remain: Faith, hope, love. But the greatest of these is love. Arrangements by Neptune Society

CASTEEL, Louise J.

3/8/1923 - 4/5/2021

Raised in Williamsport, PA. In 1946 she married Service Veteran Pat Ricci and had one daughter, Sharon Ricci. Louise was loved by everyone she met, She was an ardent reader her whole life. In her earlier years she was Sharon's mom and worked in office admin. Sharon passed away after only 25 years. After many years as a widow, in 1990 Louise found true love again with retired and widowed missionary Richard A. Casteel; father of Senior Pastors John and Marguerite Casteel of Grace Chapel Tucson. They lived blissfully until Richard's death in 2008. Since that time, Louise continued to minister powerfully as a major Prayer Warrior. She had an unusual knack of reaching out to younger folks and ministering directly to their needs. In Tucson she had a "Special 4 Spiritually Adopted" loved ones; Ed and Cheri Gallick, Lisa Hahn and Julie Pielemeier. She attended both Grace Chapel and Passion Church in Tucson, always a reflection of God's love. In her last six years Louise was lovingly cared for at Desert Steppes Home. Her favorite expression, "Angels are here!" She is survived by her sister, Peggy Waltz; brother, Frank Taddeo; nieces and nephews, Donna, Joy, Cheryl, Francella, Denise, Stacie and Craig. Her sister, Alvina and brother, John are deceased. Service at ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Dodge Chapel, 1050 N. Dodge, Saturday, April 17, 2021, from 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Reverend Jim Brunner presiding. She will be interred with her first husband Pat at VA National Cemetery, Phx. No gravesite service per her request.

DYKMAN, Margaret Sue

1/30/1932 - 4/4/2021

Margaret Sue (Dickson) Dykman passed away at home April 4, 2021, the same way she lived, gracefully, filled with love, and surrounded by family. Margaret was raised in Wood, South Dakota, and moved to Tucson in 1960 when her husband, Dyke, took a job with ASARCO. Margaret's door was always open to friends, relatives, and stray animals and there was always room for an extra place at the table. She enjoyed traveling, reading, history and genealogy, and was an avid UofA Wildcat basketball fan. Margaret was a happy, kind, and tolerant person. She always had a kind word to share and time to listen, separate the wheat from the chaff, and provide the very best advice. She was generous with her time, love, and resources. She was selfless in everything she did and always put her children and family first. She shared her joy freely and taught her children and grandchildren to appreciate the small things in life, to love unconditionally, to forgive one another, to treasure each other, and to keep family traditions and memories alive. Life without her is unthinkable and yet we will continue to honor her with the hope of one day living up to the legacy of light and love that she left behind. Margaret is survived by her five children, Bonnie Dykman, Dianne (Jerry) Becker, Fred (Sis) Dykman, Gary (Norma) Dykman and Barb (TL) Garrett; grandchildren, Brian, David, Danny (Billie), Sarah (Troy) and Dillion; great-grandchildren, Riley, Paige and Kinsley; sister, Louise Erdelt; brothers, George and Willis "Kiki" Dickson and many in-laws, nieces, nephews and friends. She was preceded in death by Dyke, her husband of 62 years. In lieu of flowers, please join us in prayers and/or donate to an animal shelter of your choice. Arrangements by FUNERARIA DEL ANGEL SOUTH LAWN.

GROH, Martha (Mardi)

Our beloved mother Martha (Mardi) Groh passed peacefully into her new life in Heaven on February 16, 2021. Her family and the wonderful staff at Arizona Assisted Living were at her side. She was 96 years of age.

Her loving husband of 63 years, Ferd Groh preceded her in death in 2006. She is survived by her sons, Glenn Groh (Jan), Gary Groh (Olivia) and daughter, Jan Morales (Roy); grandchildren, Carrie Buck, Mark Morales, Jim Groh, Matthew Morales, J'lene DeChape, Jeff Groh, Andrea Groh, Anthony Groh and Kelly Lowe. She has 17 great-grandchildren.

Mardi was born in Butler New Jersey to Benjamin Corning and Florence Robinson. She had four siblings. All have preceded her in death.

Ferd and Mardi moved their family to Tucson in 1954. Mardi became a member of the Ladies Auxiliary at the VFW Post 549 and the Ladies Club at the YMCA, she enjoyed taking personal enrichment classes in creative writing and photography. She became a good amateur photographer and had her camera with her at all family events and social functions.

We will miss her warmth and unconditional love. Mardi believed in looking for the good in people. Her gift was making people feel special. She had a great sense of humor. Mardi Groh passed away on the first day of Mardi Grah.

The celebration of her life will be held when we can gather safely.

In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to Friends of Aphasia online or to P.O. Box 12232, Tucson, AZ 85732. Arrangements by EAST LAWN PALMS MORTUARY.

HAAS, John C.

67, passed away on April 6, 2021. Survived by his wife of 47 years, Jackie; daughters, Jennifer (Dennis) Kinney and Jill (Joel) Wills; three grandchildren, one great-grandchild and sister, Diane Delph. Predeceased by his parents, Dan and Marlene Wilkins and brother, George Wilkins. John was a gifted teacher and counselor and served as the state director of the Arizona Association of Junior High Student Counsels for many years. It was difficult for him to retire last year. He loved his students and kept working as long as he could while bravely and silently fighting cancer for four years. A kind and humble man who never realized how many lives he touched. We will miss him terribly. Celebration of Life service is being deferred due to Covid-19. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John's memory to Sahuarita Middle School Student Council. Arrangements by MARANA MORTUARY.

HEFNER, Robert Patrick

Robert was unexpectedly called to Heaven at 51 years young on March 30, 2021. He is preceded in death by his mother, Coral Mary Hefner and survived by father, Dale (Robert) Hefner; wife, Michelle Hefner; siblings, Jennifer (TJ) Trujillo, Julie (Chris) Hefner and Carla Harrow; daughters, Nichole (Dan) Jones and Amanda (Roman) DeAsis, Nathalie DeAsis, as well as 11 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Rob was born on July 15, 1969 in Decatur, Illinois. He moved to Tucson with his family as a young child where he met his beloved wife, Michelle. Rob and Michelle were happily married for 27 years.

First, Rob was a family man. He loved taking trips to Hawaii, walks with his wife and dog Dakota, cooking dinner and playing board games with his family. On weekends to break free, he loved taking scenic drives with his wife and enjoying nature.

He was a man of numerous talents. Many of which were self-taught. He had a love for music and could rock out on the guitar. Anyone who knows Rob, knows about his love for the game of hockey. You could often find him at the rink with his friends playing roller hockey on weeknights.

Robert was a hardworking, organized, and motivated individual. Anything he put his mind to, he could do. This included becoming a successful Computer Engineer for JNR Networks. He dedicated 11 years of his life to this position and enjoyed helping others through computer networking services.

Due to current COVID-19 health restrictions his services will be private. His family thanks you in advance for all of the prayers, love, and support. Arrangements by BRING'S BROADWAY CHAPEL.

HUIZENGA, John K.

went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on January 6, 2021. Born August 4, 1944, in Evergreen Park, Illinois. He worked for 17 years as a Ready Mix driver for Ozinga Brothers before moving to Tucson. Once in Tucson, he worked in sales and rental of construction equipment for 20+ years before retiring. He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Janet. Loving father to son, Kenneth (Tawna) and daughter, Cheryl (Harland) Walton. Adoring grandfather to five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Funeral Services will be held at 12:00 noon on Saturday, April 17, 2021 at Christ Community Church, 530 South Pantano in Tucson. Celebration of life gathering immediately following. Donations can be made to Special Olympics or Gospel Rescue Mission. Arrangements by DESERT ROSE HEATHER MORTUARY.

MCFERRON, George Huston

George H. McFerron, 88, of Tucson, AZ, passed away in his home on December 29, 2020. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, April 23, 2021 at EAST LAWN PALMS MORTUARY AND CEMETERY. Born December 7, 1932 in Lakewood, Ohio to Raymond H. and Mary L. McFerron. He is survived by daughter, Susan and granddaughters, Robin and Casey of Dallas, Texas. Preceded in death by son, Gerry. George graduated from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio and moved to Tucson, AZ in 1959. He loved to volunteer, meet people and travel. The family requests that expressions of sympathy take the form of contributions to Handlers of Tucson and YMCA of Southern Arizona.

MURPHY, Louise Rita

Louise was born July 4, 1953. On March 6, 2021, she now rests at peace and out of pain. Louise was born and raised in Joliet, Illinois, but migrated to Tucson, Arizona in 1983 with her parents and younger siblings. She died surrounded by family and love. She was preceded in death by her parents, Don and Nettie (Bluth) Murphy; her brother, Bill (Suzanne); beloved nieces, Kristine and Nichole Murphy; aunt, Sam (Lucille Bluth) and her cat, Sedona (named after her favorite place in Arizona) and numerous other relatives. Louise is leaving behind her siblings, Mike Murphy (Annette), Elaine Torrence (Don), Susan Samoy (Joey), Lynette Ancharski and Patrick Murphy (Kim), to remember and grieve. She is also survived by many cousins, nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and many good friends.

Below are some highlights and memories of her life (in no particular order): Lover of bacon, travel, and a cat named Sedona; Co-builder and driver of a lawn mower engine powered go-kart; Florida or bust traveler of Patti, Mac, and Camille; sister of Bill, Mike, Elaine, Susie-Lynnie-Pat; daughter of Don and Nettie; aunt and great-aunt of many; raiser of money for diabetes research; softball player with fellow Statesville CC employees; traveling companion of friend and cousin, Linda; good neighbor of Val; good friend of Patti, Sally, and Dee; after Christmas shopper extraordinaire with Kelly; founder of Christmas Eve at Louise's with the Ancharski clan; spiritual resident of Sedona, Arizona; CPA, friend, and mentor at Beach Fleishman; Diet Coke drinker; collector of deer statues; trusted friend and advisor; SFA class of 1971; volunteer at TMC gift shop; hiker of Sabino Canyon; finder of God in nature; Law and Order, Jeopardy, and Wheel watcher; fan of the Chicago Bulls and White Sox, UofA sports, and any sports in which her nieces and nephews participated; former clothes horse and shoe collector who came to see the wisdom in PJs and sweatpants; wedding dance and shoe consultant; survivor of a burst appendix and a bout of valley fever that cost a lobe of her lung; graduate of Joliet Junior College and University of Phoenix.

Memorial donations can be made to the Steele Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and/or the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Arizona Chapter.

A private Memorial Mass for invited guests will be held on Saturday, April 17, 2021 at St. Pius X Catholic Church at 11:00 a.m., but a live stream will be available. Arrangements by BRING'S BROADWAY CHAPEL.

PETERS, Bernadette Christine "Bernie"

10/24/1920 - 3/31/2021

Bernie passed away peacefully at her daughter, Janet's home with family around her. She had been under hospice care for several months.

Bernie grew up in Chicago with siblings, Marcella Roeder (deceased), Joseph Roeder (deceased) and William Roeder. Bernie moved to Arizona in the 1940's, where she raised her six children, Vincent Peters (deceased), Mary Oddo, Janet Peters (John Corradini), Jeffrey Peters (deceased), Christine Hansen (Howard) and Pamela Kenney. After retiring from City of Tucson in 1985 she spent many years traveling, especially to places sacred to her Catholic faith. She hiked weekly well into her 80's, loved to read, garden and spend time with family and her many friends. "She is a beautiful, amazing woman" was something her kids heard often from her friends. She was deeply loved by many. She also volunteered at Casa Maria Soup for over 25 years, twice a week. Mom's deep faith, love and trust in God helped her through difficult, sad times including the deaths of her sons, granddaughter, Melinda and daughter-in-law, Lili.

Services will be held at a later date due to social distancing concerns due to Covid-19. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Casa Maria, 401 E 26th St., Tucson, AZ 85713-2928 or https://casamariatucson.org/donations, in honor of Bernadette Peters.

STAMPS, Stanley W. "Stan"

Lt. Colonel USAF (Retired)

Stan, at the age of 82 made his last flight west during the early morning of April 1, 2021, opening day of the MLB season; he was probably flying an H-3 helicopter!

He was born in Evansville, Ind. in 1938 and was raised in Boonville Ind. He graduated from Boonville High School in 1956. He played basketball in high school and received a Basketball Scholarship to attend Evansville College (now Evansville University). He graduated in 1960. He immediately entered the USAF, attended fixed wing pilot training as a prerequisite of Helicopter School, received his silver wings and was commissioned as a 2nd Lt.

He then served as a helicopter pilot/operations officer at the following stateside locations: Little Rock AFB, AR, Matagorda Island AFB TX, Davis-Monthan AFB, AZ, and Langley AFB VA. He served overseas in Ecuador, South Korea, Japan, Okinawa, Vietnam, and Thailand. He flew H-19's and finished his flying career in an H-3 catching Drones midair in foreign countries which were very crucial in averting activity of the enemy moving into South Korea. He retired from the USAF at Davis-Monthan AFB in January 1985.

He is survived by three daughters, Sara Clifton (Todd deceased) of Cary, NC, Tara Burge of Phoenix, AZ, Lana Meell of Phoenix, AZ and his son, Mark Stamps (Liane) of Chandler, AZ. He is also survived by caregiver, Debi Dorman (Joe deceased) and Carolyn Dupont, friends of 37+ years, Art and Mariann Straub, neighbors of 37+ years and Melinda Hinkle (friend/caregiver) of 22+ years.

He is also survived by nine grandchildren, as well as six great- grandchildren.

Stan was extremely proud of his AF service and his setting an AF Record with 4,045 flying hours in the H-19 helicopter.

His friendly smile, pleasing personality and great sense of humor will be missed by many.

An "Invitation Only" Memorial Service will be held at EAST LAWN PALMS MORTUARY, 5801 E. Grant Rd., Tucson, AZ on Friday, April 16, 2021; at 11:00 a.m. The service will be livestreamed on Facebook by going to East Lawn Palms Mortuary & East Lawn Palms Cemetery | Facebook at the time of the service.

In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to the Arizona Cancer Center, 3838 N. Campbell Ave., Tucson, AZ 85719. Any mailings can be sent to Stan Stamps, 4055 W. Dublin St., Chandler, AZ 85226.

STARR, Al D.

86, of Tucson, known for his smile, passed away Tuesday, April 6, 2021. A 63-year member of the PGA, Al was the golf pro at many local Tucson golf courses as well as courses in WI, CA, and Pinetop. Al was a two time recipient of the Sports Illustrated Merchandiser of the year award, played golf for the UofA and remained an avid sports fan. The past 34 years Al has sold real estate in partnership with his wife, Robin. Al is survived by his spouse, Robin LaRue Starr. Also, two sons, Neil Bradley Starr and Gregory Dirk Starr (Carol) and grandson, Brian from a previous marriage; three stepchildren, nine step-grandchildren and 14 step-great-grandchildren. There will be no services per Al's request, please just remember the good times. Arrangements by BRING'S BROADWAY CHAPEL.

STEWART, Dr. Kim C.

78, of Tucson, died on March 29, 2021. Born in Bradford, Arkansas April 11, 1942. A veteran and Rotarian, Kim loved traveling with his family and racing sports cars, mostly Volkswagens. Kim was a dentist and an artist, able to craft aesthetically pleasing and durable dental work. He enjoyed talking to his patients about their lives, current events and basketball. Kim played basketball at UCLA for Coach John Wooden and was a member of the school's first NCAA title team in 1964. Kim was cherished by his family and is survived by Mary Ann, his wife of 54 years; daughter, Melissa; son, Sean; sister, Nancy; brother-in-law, Barney; nephew, Philip; niece, Lea and several cousins. No services at this time. Family invites you to visit his memorial page at DESERT SUNSET FUNERAL HOME.

UNRUH, Helen "Chris"

Please join us in remembering Helen "Chris" Unruh

Service Information:

Memorial Service will be held at

FUNERARIA DEL ANGEL, 7 E. University Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85705

on Friday, April 16, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

A Live-Steam services available through

https://www.facebook.com/168056533208332

Scattering of Ashes:

Funeraria Del Angel South Lawn Cemetery, Scattering Garden,

5401 S. Park Ave., Tucson AZ, 85706

on Friday, April 16, 2021 at 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Service will be led by Pastor John Angiulo from

Casas Adobes Congregational Church.

WEITZNER, Mollie

101, of Tucson, died January 26, 2021. Mollie was born in New York City and married to Jerry for 50 years, the love of her life. They moved to Tucson in 1983 to be with daughter, Judy (Ed) and two grandchildren, Roger and Leah. In 2012 she had a great-grandchild Mia, whom she loved very much. Mollie who lived a vibrant and vital 101 years, preserving her sharp mind, optimistic outlook, generous spirit and independence to the very end. She always had lots of friends and attracted supportive, loving group throughout her life. She had friends, as recently as this past year, that celebrated their birthdays together having lunch out. She volunteered with different organizations, giving back to the community. Mollie demonstrated being a good human being and during challenging times she always said, "this too shall pass", and would move on. She died at home in her sleep. Mollie is loved very much and will be in our hearts forever. Arrangements by EVERGREEN MORTUARY.

WILSON, Mary (Page)

84, of Tucson, passed away March 16, 2021. She was born March 8, 1937 in Phoenix. She was the beloved wife for 40 years of C. Darrel Wilson (deceased 2003). She was the loving mother of Lisa (Alan), Valerie (Steven), Stephen (deceased), Mary Barbara (Philip), David and Mark (Christina). Devoted grandmother to Tatiana, Christopher (Avery), Geoffrey, Gregory, Michelle, Jacob, Nathaniel and Leo. Great-Grandmother to Andrew, Piper and Zoey. Aunt to amazing nieces and nephews. Mary was loved dearly by her many friends and family members and brought great happiness to all. Father Ricardo Elford will celebrate Mass at Holy Hope Cemetery in Tucson at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 16, 2021 with graveside interment immediately following. Arrangements by CARRILLO'S TUCSON MORTUARY.