Ralph D. Annen
Ralph D. Annen of Sun Lakes, AZ, and Stoughton, WI, lost his life to West Nile Virus on October 4, 2018. Ralph was born on November 10, 1944, to Adam and Charlotte Annen. He married Tenni Bailey in 1970 and raised two sons, Jeremy and Joshua, in Stoughton, WI. He was employed by the U.S. Postal Service in Stoughton, WI.
Upon retirement, Ralph and Tenni moved to Sun Lakes, AZ, where he enjoyed golfing, football, dancing and many social events. He was an active member of Risen Savior Lutheran Church where he and Tenni played in the Hand Bell Choir.
He is survived by his wife Tenni, sons Jeremy (Kristine) and Joshua (Neanda), six grandchildren and two and a half great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two brothers and families, one sister-in-law and family and several cousins.
Laurie Everette “Bergie” Bergerson
Laurie Everette “Bergie” Bergerson, 90, of Peoria, AZ, transitioned on September 18, 2018, following an extended period of decline. He was preceded in death by his wife Barbara Ann. Survivors included sisters Clarice and LaRayne and brother Gerald of WI; son William (Meg) of Kansas City, MO; daughter Jennie of Sun City, AZ; and German exchange student sons Friedhelm and Frank Pieper.
Born in Bruce Valley, WI, on May 30, 1928, to Otto and Jennie Bergerson, Laurie was the youngest of 11 siblings, and it was they who petitioned that he be named after the eponymous character in Little Women. They also augmented Jennie’s devoted care after Otto passed away when Bergie was just three. Enlisting in the Army as a teen post high school, he went on to major in accounting at the University of Wisconsin, later added an MBA in Finance at Western Michigan University and the title of Certified Management Accountant in 1974.
During his early career in South Bend, IN, a young actress, Barbara Ann Unger, caught Bergie’s fancy. They wed on June 11, 1955. Vocational moves took the family to St. Joe, then Portage, MI, and ultimately Phoenix, AZ. Both were very active in the Lutheran Church at each location. Bergie also served a number of years as quartermaster of the local VFW post in Sun Lakes, AZ.
While Barbara kindled in Bergie an interest in amateur theater – including chancel drama, he awakened her to a penchant for seafaring from his time on troop carriers in the Pacific. They enjoyed three transatlantic crossings, one of which was in celebration of their 50th wedding anniversary. The travel bug also took them to all 50 states, Canada, México and Europe; and shutterbug Bergie captured it all on video at a time when lugging a camcorder was no small feat!
An impeccable man of his word, Bergie was quick to challenge pat assumptions. At the same time, his gregarious, fun-loving nature and wry sense of humor endeared him to many, as did a heart for helping others. Bergie was intrigued by Civil War history and enjoyed watching a good ballgame or playing a round of golf. Yet the bonds formed wherever he went were certainly among his greatest joys – none less than those forged during annual deer hunts in Michigan, which he took part in each year for over three decades!
Services will be private; a visual remembrance may be found at TinyURL.com/4Bergie. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial tributes be directed to Hospice of the Valley (HoV.org/donate; 602-530-6992) or Banner Sun Health Research Institute (select from popup online) (SunHealthFoundation.org/donate; 623-832-5330).
Ginia L. “Ginny” Dick
Ginia L. “Ginny” Dick, born Ginia Lou Wilcox, died peacefully in her sleep on October 2, 2018, at the age of 92.
Ginny was born to Isaac Greene and Louise T. Wilcox of Renick, MO, in 1925. She loved her idyllic childhood growing up the family farm.
Ginny attended a small rural elementary school, graduating in 1939. She often rode to school on horseback with her big brother Bob. She attended Huntsville High School, where she held office in student government all four years. She was a member of the National Honor Society, serving as an officer each year. Following graduation in 1943, Ginny attended Gem City Business College in Quincy, IL, where she completed a two-year program in one year.
She moved to Kansas City in 1944 and worked as a secretary/bookkeeper. That year, she also completed Red Cross training as a nurse’s aide and volunteered during the closing days of World War II.
In 1947, Ginny accepted employment in Manhattan, KS. While there, she met Kenneth R. Dick, Jr., who was attending Officer’s Candidate School at Fort Riley. After his training was complete, they were married in Manhattan on October 27, 1948. In the ensuing years, they moved often with Ken’s new postings. They had four boys: Tom, born in MD; Doug and Mike, born in AK; and Garry, born in AL. Ginny was a homemaker, loved by Ken and the boys and, together, they built a close family.
When Ken retired in 1965, the family moved to Vallejo, CA. Ginny served in a variety of church and civic service organizations through the years, her favorite being the Philanthropic Educational Organization (PEO). As the boys grew and left home, she returned to employment with the City of Benicia. Following their retirement, Ken and Ginny relocated to Sun Lakes, AZ.
Ginny was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brother and sister-in-law, brother-in-law and a son.
She is survived by her three boys: Thomas B. Dick and wife Carolyn of Edgewood, NM; D. Michael Dick and wife Linda of Casa Grande, AZ; and Garry A. Dick and wife Jera of Denton, TX; daughter-in-law Beverly Trocha; sister-in-law Suzanne M Denney; eight grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren.
Memorial contributions can be made to PEO Program for Continuing Education and sent to PEO Executive Office Finance Dept., 3700 Grand Ave., Des Moines, IA 50312. Please note “Ginia Dick, Chap CY” on the check.
A Memorial Service will be held at the Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery at Jacksonville, MO, at 10:00 a.m. on November 9, 2018.
Edward James Flynn
Edward James Flynn passed away peacefully at home on September 13, 2018, in Sun Lakes, Arizona. A Funeral Mass was held on Monday, October 8, 2018, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Steven’s Catholic Church, 24827 S. Dobson Road, Sun Lakes, AZ.
Ed was born in Marshall, Michigan, on October 8, 1941, the son of Edward and Juli (Bruneel) Flynn. He graduated from Marshall High School in 1960. He worked at Eaton’s in Marshall for 10 years.
On August 27, 1966, he married Penny (Scofic). They were married for 52 years and blessed with three children and seven grandchildren.
In 1973, Ed and his family moved to Ft. Collins, Colorado, where he worked at Colorado State University for 20 years. Upon retiring, he and Penny moved to Arizona where he pursued his many interests including golf, woodworking, home improvements and spending time with family and friends.
Ed will be best remembered for being a loving husband, father and grandfather, “The Baby Whisperer” to his seven grandchildren. A very strong man; physically, mentally and spiritually. A loyal friend to many and a kind stranger willing to offer his talented, helping hand to ones in need. He was a teacher to his children and grandchildren and coach to many. He cherished his evening sunset golf cart rides with his wife and daytime golf cart adventures with his grandkids… and grown kids. His quick smile and unique sense of humor were his own.
He was preceded in death by his father Edward and mother Juli and brothers Robert Flynn, Richard Flynn and Peter Flynn.
He is survived by his wife Penny Flynn of Sun Lakes, AZ; son Todd (Nichole) of Ainsworth, NE; daughter Terri of Ft Collins, CO; son Brian (Sarah) of Bristow, OK; and grandchildren Ben, Maia and Willa (Todd and Nichole); Noah and Reese (Terri); and Madelyn and Anna (Brian and Sarah).
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made in his memory to St. Jude Children’s Cancer Research Hospital, http://fundraising.stjude.org/goto/edwardflynn; Shriners Hospital for Children, https://donate.lovetotherescue.org; or a charity of your choice.
Eleanor Gold
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of former Sun Lakes resident Eleanor Gold, 96, in Chicago, on October 8, 2018. Eleanor was the wife of the late Jerry Gold and is survived by her children Larry and Andrea Gold of Chicago, Jeffrey and Nancy Gold of New York, Sharon Gold of New York and grandchildren Michael Gold of Boston and Julie Gold of New York.
Eleanor was born on December 27, 1921, in the Bronx, NY, to Fanny and Leo Feldman and graduated from Hunter College in New York City. She worked as a medical laboratory technician before marrying and raising her family in suburban White Plains, NY. In the early 1960s, she attained a master’s degree from Hunter in library science and enjoyed a second career as a librarian at John Philip Sousa Junior High School in the Bronx, where she remained for over 20 years. Eleanor and Jerry retired to Sun Lakes in 1985. Jerry became a proud founder of the first Sun Lakes synagogue, and Eleanor was active in all synagogue activities. Jerry died in 2000.
Famous for the energy and enthusiasm she brought to a wide array of interests over the years, Eleanor was an avid skier, golfer, tennis player and swimmer (she never missed her daily laps at the Phase 2 pool) as well as a bridge and mahjongg regular. She enjoyed opera, theater and books and was addicted to the New York Times daily crossword puzzle. She and Jerry enjoyed travel but primarily loved their lively social life with so many good friends in the Sun Lakes community. A terrific entertainer, Eleanor was always the life of the party and someone who knew how to have fun. In that, she followed her World War I veteran father Leo’s famous proclamation about nearly every event, big or small: “It’s a regular party!” Friends and neighbors viewed Eleanor as a role model for aging with verve and style.
Eleanor moved to a Chicago retirement community in 2015, where she remained active until recently. She passed after a brief illness. A service and burial took place on Friday, October 12, 2018, at Green Acres Mortuary and Cemetery in Scottsdale.
Raymond D. Keller, Sr.
On August 31, 2018, in the twilight of the Arizona morning, Raymond D. Keller, Sr., 81, left this world, his pain and his failing body.
Ray was born on January 16, 1937, in Lewisburg, Ohio, to parents John H. Sr. and Marie (Baker) and was a 1955 graduate of Jefferson High School, New Paris, Ohio. Learning the family trade of masonry from the early age of 12, he worked his craft until he moved on to general construction later in his career until retiring in 2008. Ray always took pride in his work, and he always stood by his word. He was an honest, stern but caring man that one always knew where they stood, and he was liked by many for these traits. Much of his work can still be seen today throughout Richmond, New Paris, Sun Lakes and the surrounding areas. Through the years, Ray was a member and held positions with various community, civic and church organizations and sat on numerous building committees. Ray loved to watch sporting events, live or three at a time on television, bowled, golfed, had the love of Model T’s/A’s, traveling, family visits, fishing for Barracuda in Marathon and was ALWAYS up for a good game of euchre.
Ray married Nan (Lowry) on March 03, 1956, and even though they divorced in 2002, she was his caregiver until his end of life. Ray was the proud father of four children, grandfather to seven and great-grandfather to 10. He was always a driving force in all that they did or do in their careers and their lives from work ethic, values, determination and pride in craft to their sense of humor or shenanigans.
Ray is survived by his ex-wife Nan, sons Phil (Lori) and Tim (Terri) and daughter Vi, grandchildren Heidi, Ray, Michele, Constance, Phillip, Franki, Kacey and their combined 10 children, sisters June Arnett, Joyce Neanen, brother James, many nieces, nephews and other family.
Ray is preceded in death by his parents John Sr. and Marie, sister Betty Horrigan, brothers John Jr., Robert, Richard and son Ray Jr.
Cremation is took place in Arizona with Bueler’s Mortuary of Chandler, AZ, handling arrangements for the family. Celebration of Life was held at Central United Methodist Church on October 21 followed by a luncheon/reunion of family and friends and an informal Celebration and Remembrance of Life.
Richard Earl Murray
Richard Earl Murray went to be with the Lord on September 28, 2018, at the age of 90. Dick was born February 23, 1928, in Kansas City, Kansas.
He married the love of his life, Rosemarie Marx. They were married for 71 years. Dick was a U.S. Navy veteran.
He and Rosemarie moved to Palo Verde in Sun Lakes after a wonderful 38-year career with Phillips 66. He enjoyed retirement working on cars and socializing at the pool. To stay busy, he helped his neighbors as a handyman, and even delivered locally for Meals on Wheels.
Dick is survived by his loving wife Rosemarie of Sun Lakes and five children: Diana (Bill), Rick (Linda), Debbie (Terry), Ron (Joy) and Rob (Tracy). Also, he has 12 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
We know you are finally at peace with all of your friends and relatives who have passed before you. We will miss you, Dad.
Rudolph Nuss
Rudolph Nuss, 94, passed away September 10, 2018. He was born October 28, 1923, in Ft. Morgan, CO, to Carl and Marie Nuss. He was the oldest of 10 children. He is survived by his wife Judy, a brother Harold, son Michael and many family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, six brothers and two sisters.
Rudy resided in Sun Lakes for 31 years where he enjoyed golf, dancing and bowling. He was a lifetime member of the Elks Lodge where he was very active in earlier years. Rudy was a World War II veteran, serving in the U.S. Army.
Rudy was loved and will be missed by family and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Ellie Schuck
Ellie Schuck of Sun Lakes, Arizona, passed away at home on Monday, September 24, 2018, after a two-and-a-half-year battle with brain cancer. She was 78 years old. Ellie was born in Newburg, Oregon, on March 18, 1940, the second of four daughters.
On March 5, 1960, Ellie and Ed came together in matrimony. They welcomed their first son Craig into the world in July, 1961, followed shortly thereafter by Eric in June, 1962, and Tony in March, 1965. This past March, Ellie and Ed celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary.
As a homemaker raising three boys, Ellie was always looking for ways to save a buck and earn one. After reading one of the first books published on microwave cooking in the mid-1970s, Ellie developed a passion for microwave cooking which led to a position with Amana Radar Ranges doing in-store cooking demonstrations. Two to three days a week, she could be found at the top of the escalator in the local department store’s appliance section preparing scrambled eggs or homemade fudge for shoppers interested in the new technology.
After escaping the cold and wet weather of the Pacific Northwest for San Jose, California, in the early 1980s, Ellie’s passion turned to fitness coinciding with the boom of aerobics. Armed with a boombox and a stack of homemade cassette tapes, Ellie worked teaching classes for a variety of local health clubs, garnering a huge following based on her knowledge, energy and enthusiasm.
Ed and Ellie’s journey together took them from California to Sun Lakes in 1995. Even in the hottest of Arizona summers, it was a decision Ellie never regretted. She wasted no time in re-establishing her aerobics classes and enjoyed getting others interested in staying fit. As she liked to say, her classes brought people together under their shared interest of fitness and developed into a social group where everyone was welcomed.
After suffering through a steady decline associated with her disease, Ellie is finally at peace. Her life will be celebrated by many and she will be greatly missed by her friends and loved ones.
A funeral Mass of celebration will be held on November 2, 2018, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Steven’s Catholic Church in Sun Lakes. After the service, a reception will follow in the church hall.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Ellie’s memory at Hospice of the Valley (www.hov.org).
Maureen Smith
Mrs. Maureen Smith née Mancini passed away on July 12, 2018 in San Jose, California. She is preceded in death by her husband, Ronald Stanton Smith, and her brother, John Mancini. Maureen is survived by her children, Sharon, Sandra, Ronald, and Stephen; her grandchildren, Ronald Stanton Smith II, Hannah, Alessandra, and Ava; her sister, Patricia Kenny; and her cousins, nephews, and nieces across the globe.
Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, Maureen grew up between Edinburgh and her family village of Fauldhouse. Fauldhouse remains home to many family members. Maureen held fond memories of village life at the home of her grandparents, in particular, with her beloved granny, Mary Mancini née Boni. Passing on her love of the village to her children and grandchildren, her daughters, Sharon and Sandra, and granddaughters, Alessandra and Ava, delight in trips to Fauldhouse and the company of the extended Mancini clan.
Upon immigrating to USA, California became home. She loved the ocean, the mountains, and the valleys between. Being a mother and a wife was her first love, her children always her priority. Maureen was also passionate about her careers; first, in the medical field, culminating in her role in building Sereno Surgical Center in Los Gatos. She then developed a highly successful career in real estate in San Jose. Moving to Sun Lakes, Arizona, Maureen´s career in real estate continued to flourish. It is fair to say Sun Lakes became home second only to California during her time there.
Full of grace and compassion, Maureen worked with families in need and the homeless. With an adventurous spirit, she loved to travel and explore, celebrating life every day. Maureen was a friend to many; all knew she was someone who would be there for them. She treasured these friendships throughout her life. Those who knew her best know of her kaleidoscope theory and, indeed, she has changed a color to join her family and friends in the glory of God in heaven.
Per her wishes, a private requiem mass was held at St. Francis of Assisi, San Jose. Both her ashes and those of her late husband were blessed. The following day, the ashes were released to the sea near Santa Cruz, CA.
The family wishes to thank all who have had masses said in our mother´s honor and remembered her in their prayers. Held in churches large and small, from her local parish, to her village church, and in the Vatican, these masses and prayers would mean so much to her. If you would like to make a donation in her honor, please give to Catholic Charities.
Gertrude “Trudy” Solberg
Gertrude “Trudy” Solberg of Sun Lakes, Arizona passed away July 26, 2019 at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Trudy was born on December 19, 1937 in Wanamingo, Minnesota to George and Ella Gronseth Froyum. She graduated from Wanamingo High School in 1955 and St. Olaf College in 1959, with a degree in nursing. On October 10, 1959 she married Donald Solberg at Trinity Lutheran Church in Wanamingo.
During their lives together, Trudy and Don lived in Minnesota, Iowa, Georgia, Illinois, Wisconsin and finally in Sun Lakes, Arizona, where they retired. Of those states, Trudy practiced nursing in Minnesota, Illinois, and Wisconsin.
Trudy took both piano and organ lessons and, beginning in high school, became a church organist. She enjoyed knitting and made well over 100 baby sweaters for friends and relatives. She also knit caps for premature babies at a neo-natal care hospital in Illinois.
During the years her husband, Don, was involved in international sales and marketing, Trudy hosted and entertained people from many countries in the home that she and her husband shared. She and Don also had young people from Brazil, Peru, Spain and Holland live with them for a short time. Trudy travelled with her husband internationally to ten different countries in their time together.
Trudy is survived by her husband, Don, her sons, Paul of New Hudson, Michigan, Jim of Maple Grove, Minnesota, and Jon of Minocqua, Wisconsin, as well as her grandchildren, Brianna Solberg of Ann Arbor, Michigan, Lindsay Solberg of Shorewood, Illinois, Daniel and Abby Solberg of Menomonie, Wisconsin, Arron and David Solberg of Minocqua, Wisconsin, and her brother Gunder Froyum of Wanamingo, Minnesota. She was preceded in death by her parents. A memorial service was held on August 20th at Trinity Lutheran Church in Wanamingo with Pastor Chris Culuris officiating.