In Passing – December 2024

Joyce Caroline Anderson

Joyce Caroline Anderson, 90, passed away on Oct. 7, 2024, in Sun Lakes, Ariz. She was born to her parents Hazel and Ernest Miller on Dec. 21, 1933, in Leonia, Idaho. Joyce’s life was characterized by her beautiful spirit, her deep love for her family, and a consistently positive attitude that touched everyone she met.

Joyce graduated from John Rodgers High School in Spokane, Wash. It was there, while pitching in a softball game, that she met her husband–to–be, Arnold Anderson. They were married three years later on May 5, 1952. Shortly after getting married, Arnold joined the Coast Guard and they moved to Ketchikan, Alaska. Upon completion of his service commitment, they returned to Spokane where Arnold accepted a job with Gerber Baby Foods. During his career at Gerber, they moved nine times to nine different cities. After retiring they relocated to Sun Lakes, where they have lived for over 28 years.

Joyce loved sports, including swimming, golf, and bowling … but by far bowling was her favorite. The week before her passing she was still bowling and maintaining a 156 average. She and Arnie also enjoyed traveling, which included road trips, various cruises, and visits to several European countries, as well as Japan and Mexico. She was always ready for a card or dice game or putting a puzzle together with family and friends.

Joyce loved family, but by far was most proud of her 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Each one had a special place in her heart and she was always willing to share an update of their recent adventures and accomplishments.

Joyce is survived by her loving husband of 72 years, Arnold, her sons and their families: Scott and Ladena Anderson—Ashlea and Bill Johnson (Addylea and Liam), Austin and Lindsey Anderson (Brooklyn); Mark and Judy Anderson—Brooke and Scott Whitfield (Dagny and Woods), Morgan and Pete Borlase (Pierre and Pedrie), Haley and Nik Cehura (Sonny), Wyatt Weiss, Garrett Weiss; brother Dick and Deanne Miller; extended family members: Vicki Anderson; Steve and Michelle Burt—Mike and Monica Burt (Evelyn), Jake and Melanie Burt (Lila Joyce and Brinley), Kenzie and Rae Newman; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by beloved daughter Crystal Burt, brother Bob Miller, and sister Marylou Mathrusse.

Special thanks to nieces Laura Olson, Terri Truttman, and Carla Burke, friends Rick and Beverly Merritt, Pastor Mitch McDonald, and the Sun Lakes Community Church for their expressions of love and support of the Anderson family.

Joyce’s legacy of love, faith, hospitality, generosity, and laughter will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched. Her generous and charitable nature was evident through her active involvement in various community and church activities. Joyce was deeply loved by many and will be remembered for her kindness and dedication to helping others. Surely, we take great comfort knowing she is now at home with our Lord Jesus Christ.

A memorial service was held in her honor on Sunday, Nov. 24 at the Sun Lakes Community Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, a cause close to Joyce’s heart, as her daughter Crystal passed away at an early age to this disease. Contributions may be sent to: Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 4742 N. 24th St. Phoenix, AZ 85086, or online at Give.cff.org.

 

Jim Barker

James (Jim) Lester Barker, 81, of Sun Lakes, Ariz., passed away peacefully on Nov. 8, 2024. Born on June 30, 1943, in Clarion, Iowa, Jim was the son of the late Claire and Marian Barker. He was a beloved father, grandfather, and friend who touched the lives of all who knew him.

Throughout his life, Jim was known for his love of family and the outdoors, his sense of humor, and his work ethic. He spent years working as an engineer for Northwestern Bell Telephone, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues. Outside of his career, Jim enjoyed riding his motorcycle, bicycling, golfing, exploring nature, traveling the countryside, and living life to the fullest.

He is survived by: his children Connie Prill and Cindy Benda; his grandchildren Alex and Caitlyn Prill, and Allison and Alexa Benda; his brother Tom; his wife Linda; as well as many other extended family members and friends.

In addition to his family, Jim will be remembered for his wisdom and dry sense of humor, and his legacy of kindness and integrity will live on in those who knew him.

Jim’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of many, but his spirit will remain with us forever.

Richard Callister

With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of Richard (Rich) Callister, a cherished husband, dedicated father and grandfather, and beloved member of the Hudson community. Rich entered this world on Oct. 29, 1943, in San Francisco, Calif., and departed on Nov. 1, 2024, leaving a legacy of love, laughter, and lasting memories.

A proud veteran who served in the United States Naval Reserve during the Vietnam Era, Rich was known for his unwavering dedication to his country and his community. He wore many hats throughout his life, including the role of Village President of Luck, Wis., where his civic-minded spirit shone brightly, leaving a lasting impact on those around him.

Rich’s passion for sports and community led him to help establish the St. Croix Valley Soccer Association, where he fostered a love of the game in countless young athletes. This dedication to youth sports naturally extended to his own family, as he became his children’s and grandchildren’s biggest supporter, never missing their activities and sporting events.

After a successful career spanning 35 years with 3M, Rich embraced retirement with gusto, spending winters in Sun Lakes, Ariz., where he enjoyed pickleball and hiking alongside his beloved wife, Kay. His adventurous spirit led him to explore the world through exotic scuba diving trips, flying RC airplanes, and boating on the St. Croix River with his partner Connie.

With a great sense of humor and a warm smile, Rich brought joy to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Rich was preceded in death by his wife, Kay; his parents; and brother Ron.

He is the devoted father of Phil (Amy), Todd (Karen), Chris (Sue), Becky; He is also survived by his significant other Connie Burch; grandchildren Philip, Evan, Freddie, Caitlin, Zach, Aubree, Kaiah, Nicholas; great-grandson Kion; and brother Bob (Kathy).

Details for funeral services and ceremonies to honor Rich’s memory to come. Let us join together in remembrance and celebration as we pay tribute to a life that will forever be cherished and remembered.

 

Bernard Joseph Duggan Jr.

Bernard (Bernie) Joseph Duggan of Sun Lakes, Ariz., died at the age of 80 on Nov. 9, 2024.

He was born in Springfield, Ohio, to Bernard J. Duggan Sr. and June Duggan. He grew up in Chicago, Ill.

Bernie met Margaret (Marge) Duggan at a church dance when he was a senior in high school. She was a sophomore. Friendship turned to love, and they were married at the same church that they met on July 31, 1965.

Bernie attended the University of Illinois at DeKalb and Chicago Teachers College. He was hired by Allstate Insurance Co. as an agent before he was drafted into the U.S. Army. He served in the Vietnam War, and returned home in March 1970. He was rehired by Allstate in Phoenix, Ariz., where Bernie and Marge started their family. He worked for Allstate for 35 years, until he retired in 2000. At that time, Bernie and Marge moved to Sun Lakes, where Bernie played a lot of golf, and they both made many new friends.

Bernie was very active in coaching his daughters in Paradise Valley Girls Softball, and his son in baseball and football. He played tennis and golf. He was a hard worker, and could argue any point if needed. “Feisty” may be a word to describe him. He loved his family and friends.

Bernie is survived by his wife, Marge; their children: Shawn Duggan-Bell and her husband Doug Bell of Scottsdale, Ariz., Jeanie Duggan-Medden and her husband Matt Medden of Appleton, Wis., Brian Duggan and his wife Nikki Vance-Duggan of Cave Creek, Ariz.; and grandchildren: Nash Bell, Neeley Bell, Nate Bell, Kaitlin Medden, Carson Medden, Macy Medden, Rylan Duggan, Adam Duggan, and Drew Duggan; Bernie’s sister Patty Duggan-Machtemes of Phoenix; nieces Trisha, Deanna, and Christy Machthemes; and nephew Jimmy Machtemes.

Services were held Nov. 15, 2024. Bernie will be buried at the National Veterans Cemetery in Cave Creek, Ariz.

Thanks to Thema Hospice for their care and comfort, and to all of our friends for their prayers and acts of kindness.

 

Robert William Dykstra

Robert William Dykstra (Bob) was born in Grand Rapids, Mich., to Albert W. and Martha (Dornbos) Dykstra on May 10, 1937. He attended grade school, junior high, and two years of high school before the family moved to Phoenix, Ariz., when he was 16. He was very proficient on the trumpet and French horn. He was selected for All City Band and proudly played trumpet with the marching band in Holland, Mich., during Tulip Time! Bob attended Phoenix Christian and Phoenix Union High Schools his last two years and then returned to Michigan to attend Davenport Institute of Business. Upon graduation there, he served as a reservist in the U.S. Army Intelligence Division.

He met his wife, Lora, on Nov. 1, 1959, which was pretty much love at first sight for both, and they married on June 2, 1960. Their family grew to include daughter Rebecca, son Daniel (deceased as an infant), and daughter Nancy. It is impossible to list all his affiliations and awards over the years, as he did not like lengthy obituaries, but one of the most significant would be his serving on the Board of Campus Crusade for Christ since 1957. He was a member of both the Arizona Board and the Argentina Board, as well as being an active member of Christian Business Men’s Club. Bob was a photographer and acted as a stringer for both the Arizona Republic and the Phoenix Gazette. His full-time occupation was as a Claims Adjuster and Accident Investigator for several insurance companies throughout the years. He retired with USAA Insurance in 1998.

In 2000, Bob and Lora moved to Sun Lakes and enjoyed traveling and the slower pace of life. Bob experienced medical issues with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s and had been in an assisted living facility for the past three years.

He is survived by his wife, Lora; daughters Rebecca Raabe and Nancy Dykstra; son-in-law Thomas Raabe; grandson Jason Raabe; granddaughter Jenessa Raabe; grandson Aidan Curtin; granddaughter Zoe Curtin; brother Edwin J. Dykstra; sister Ruth Goldman; and numerous nieces and nephews.

 

Sandra Goldschein

Sandra Goldschein, age 81, passed away in Sun Lakes, Ariz. She was a wonderful, spiritual woman. She enjoyed Monday Wisdom Seekers and was a member of the Red Hat Society. Sandra was placed with her family in Rhode Island. She will be greatly missed.

She is survived by her son Brian, her granddaughter Keira, and her brothers Louis, Sammy, and Jon.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of many years, Alan Goldschein.

 

Charmaine Yvette Carden Hall

Charmaine Yvette Carden Hall, 90, of Sun Lakes, Ariz., passed away July 12, 2024.

Charmaine was born in London on Nov. 21, 1933, to Ernest and Marjorie Seabrook. Surviving the Second World War bombing of London, the Seabrook family ‘kept calm and carried on,’ and Charmaine was educated in the finest schools. Graduating from the International French University, she qualified for a coveted secretarial position at the Bank of England.

When Thomas “Chum” Hall visited England while on leave from the Army in 1954, he met Charmaine, and they fell in love. Within the year, Charmaine left her comfortable life for an uncertain chance at happiness with a man she hardly knew in the hot Arizona desert.

They married in Nogales in 1955, and soon after settled in Phoenix, raising three children: Adrian, Stewart, and Jennifer.

Growing up rationing during ‘the Blitz’ inspired thriftiness; Charmaine sewed and knitted clothes for the family, managed finances which allowed for occasional trips to Oceanside, but the best vacations were to England to visit grandparents.

In 1975, Charmaine rejoined the workforce. She began in the secretarial pool for the State of Arizona where she was recognized for her exceptional skills, and quickly advanced to a paralegal in the Attorney General’s office, and she enjoyed a fulfilling career.

After relocating to Sun Lakes in 1989, the Halls made the most of their retirement, enjoying social events and special interest clubs. Charmaine loved performing in the ‘Top of the Line’ dance troupe. They traveled frequently and were especially fond of Switzerland, Austria, and Germany.

Remarkable for her wavy red hair and fair complexion, Charmaine was elegantly put together and always a lady. She was the model of tact and discretion, but still had the British gift to appreciate the silly things in life. She spoke fluent French and refined English. While Charmaine was proud of her heritage, she became an American citizen, and her life really was an American success story.

Charmaine and Tom were together for 60 years until Tom’s passing in 2016. Together they built a relationship on a foundation of trust, love and respect and established a rewarding and happy family life for themselves, their children and grandchildren. They are survived by daughter Jennifer Burkizer (David), sons Stewart and Adrian (Ann) and grandchildren Hayden and Hayley. Please consider a donation in Charmaine’s memory to Sun Lakes Neighbors Who Care or the Arizona Humane Society.

 

Nancy Parsegian

Nancy Parsegian, passed away Oct. 14, 2024, in Mesa, Ariz. She was 93 years old. Nancy was living proof that you could take the girl out of Brooklyn, but you could never, nor would you want to, take the Brooklyn out of the girl. After marrying Edward Parsegian in 1956, they moved to Chicago to start and raise their family and watch as many Northwestern Wildcat football games in person as they could. In 1979 they relocated again to Mission Viejo, Calif., and enjoyed golf year round.

Over the course of her life, Mom had three holes-in-one and won numerous club and tournament championships. Nancy moved to Sun Lakes in 2017. Nancy loved golf, cards, her dogs, and her family. Preceded in death by her husband Ed, she leaves behind daughters Karen Parsegian, Barbara Arakelian (David), Brynne Shepard (Brandon), Layne Arakelian (Antony Di Lella), Bailey Arakelian, great-granddaughters Bella and Brooklyn Shepard, and niece Nancy Gallmeyer. A private Celebration of Life will be held by the family in Arizona on Jan. 18, 2025. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Neighbors Who Care (neighborswhocare.com).

 

William (Bill) Ranney

William (Bill) Ranney died peacefully at home on Oct. 7, 2024, with his wife Cathy by his side. Both a gentleman and a gentle man, he was a strong ever-present inspiration to so many. Bill was a beloved husband, father, grandpa, great-grandpa and friend who leaves behind a lifetime of beautiful memories to be cherished by all who knew him.

Bill was born in Bloomington-Normal, Ill., on Jan. 1, 1933, the oldest of three children. His childhood was full of school, Little League, Boy Scouts, and caddying at a local golf course. After high school he went to work for State Farm Insurance in the photostat department—a time before copy machines.

Drafted into the U.S. Army during the Korean War, Corporal Ranney specialized at the Atomic Artillery Battalion. With his service completed, he attended Illinois State University earning a B.A. degree and teaching certificate while working part-time at an S&H Stamp redemption store, a thing of the past. After graduation he went to work for the Illinois Agricultural Association in the investment department, married, and had a son.

In 1964 he moved his family to Southern California where he began his 32-year career with Home Savings of America (now JP Morgan Chase Bank). After working in the loan department for several years, he was appointed to create an employee benefit program to develop a sense of company pride and friendship through recreational activities. Over the next 20 years, as VP of Employee Services, he developed and enhanced the activities to include company picnics, holiday dinner-dances, tickets to various concert and sporting venues, wine tours, golf tournaments, and Disneyland private parties, as well as managing the on-site cafeterias and employee store. In 1984 he had the great personal experience of coordinating the efforts of two runners in the torch relay for the Los Angeles Olympics. In 1995 he was made an Honorary Citizen of Disneyland. Ultimately, Bill enjoyed a career of making people happy.

During all this, Bill was raising two boys, taking camping/fishing trips, coaching Little League, and participating in Indian Guides. He married Cathy, his wife of 45 years, in 1979. Bill and Cathy moved to Sun Lakes in 1995. While Bill was happy in his job, he was even happier living the good life of a retiree. He immediately joined the Ironwood Men’s golf league, serving as president from 2007-2008 and remaining active on the board until 2021. He never considered himself to be a great golfer, but he did score three holes-in-one—the first one being the most exciting as his grandson was his golf partner! Along with Cathy he was also an active member of the Ironwood Couples League from 1995-2022.

Bill never believed he was too old to learn or try something new (he was 46 the first time he skied). At the age of 62 he joined the Rock, Gem, and Silver Club where he learned how to make stained glass as well as silver and natural stone jewelry. After taking the classes, he donated his time in the shops. Wanting to share his newfound hobby, he began teaching others the thrill of creating their own unique pieces. Bill enjoyed his retired life and made many new friends. He was a kind, caring, and giving man, eager to share his creations, his “world famous fudge,” his smile; but he was also a very humble man and found it awkward to accept the thanks of others. He just wanted to give for the pleasure of giving, not ever wanting to be the center of attention. He will be remembered for his composed wit, quietly slipping in a remark when you least expected it.

Bill and Cathy enjoyed traveling … golf trips to Myrtle Beach, Idaho, Canada; cruises to Alaska, the Panama Canal, and the Caribbean islands, as well as visiting several countries in Europe. But their favorite destination was the beaches of Cancun where they spent their anniversary every year, sharing memories of a wonderful life of true love.

Bill is predeceased by his parents, his brother Pete (Herbert) and sister (Lillian). He is survived by Cathy, his loving wife; sons Michael (Cathy) and William; grandchildren Jennifer (Joseph), Matthew (Brittney), Michelle (Mason), and Adalynn; great-grandchildren Colin and Isabelle. He embraced being a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather and was full of pride for all of them. His family will find comfort in their many shared memories of a life lived with quiet strength and virtue, unwavering humility, never-ending persistence, and boundless resilience. Bill will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a future time.

 

Gordon Oscar Roen

Gordon Roen, age 88, of Sun Lakes, Ariz., passed away Oct. 16, 2024, at Spring Garden Assisted Living Facility where he and his wife of 64 years, Cleone (Chris) Roen, resided.

Gordon Oscar Roen was born March 9, 1936, son of Oscar and Agnes (Olson) Roen on the family farm in North Dakota. He was raised on the farm and attended rural schools and then high school in Minot, N.D. He served in the U.S. Army for two years, and then returned to Minot and earned a teaching degree.

On Dec. 17, 1960, he married Cleone Christine (Chris) Metz, of Garrison, N.D. Their first son Scott Gordon Roen was born in 1962 while they attended college. Gordon worked at various jobs while also studying. They both graduated as teachers and took jobs teaching in Burlington, Iowa. After the death of Gordon’s father Oscar, he and his wife returned to North Dakota to be near the farm. Gordon and Chris took teaching jobs in Garrison, N.D., and enjoyed living near Chris’s family. Their second son Corey Dean Roen was born in 1964.

Hoping for better employment opportunities, Gordon and Chris moved to the Denver area in 1966. They both took teaching jobs in Aurora, Colo. Their third son Kevin Lee Roen was born in 1966. As their family grew, they realized they missed their close relatives in North Dakota.

In 1978 Gordon moved his family to Bismarck, N.D., and changed careers, dedicating himself to becoming a successful real estate broker. His wife Chris worked as an elementary school teacher. His three sons completed high school and then went on to graduate from universities in North Dakota.

Gordon and Chris moved to Chandler, Ariz., in 1986. He continued to work in real estate and Chris continued as a teacher. Gordon enjoyed his retirement years with his wife in Sun Lakes, Ariz., participating in many social clubs and church groups. In 1999, they added a second residence, and would spend their summers in Minot, while spending winters in Arizona. After 2011, they resided permanently in Sun Lakes. In 2022, Gordon’s wife Chris suffered a stroke and has been at Spring Garden Assisted Living where Gordon recently joined her.

Service: A Celebration of Life at Sun Lakes United Methodist Church is being planned for January 2025.

 

John G. Sweitzer

John G. Sweitzer, passed away after a short illness on Tuesday, Oct. 29. John was born in Avoy, Pa., and spent his childhood years in Honesdale, Pa. John enlisted in the Army in 1957 and spent time at Fort Dix, N.J., and completed his tour with the U.S. Army in Hanford, Wash. John lived numerous years in the Los Angeles area, Redmond, Wash., and in Portland, Ore.

John was an active marathon runner and extremely proud of his running (and completing) both the New York City marathon and the Boston marathon twice, plus countless other marathons and half marathons throughout the West Coast. John’s other passion was long distance cycling. John did many week-long rides including Cycle Oregon, which he did about 15 times, and the STP (Seattle to Portland) on numerous occasions. His cherished bicycle, a Trek, has 40,000 logged miles on it; a true accomplishment! John worked as a Risk Manager for numerous, well-known companies including Nike, Hilton, and KinderCare.

John moved to Sun Lakes in 2003 and was a member of the Oakwood tennis club, played golf regularly, and continued running until 78 and his biking until he was 83! John met his wife, Eileen, in 2005 and married in 2008. They enjoyed tennis, golf, and especially traveling. John also spent time volunteering at Neighbors Who Care, the Arizona Fire and Medical Authority, and the last six years actively volunteering with his wife, Eileen, in the emergency room at Chandler Regional Hospital.

John is survived by his wife, Eileen (Molly) Bergesen, his daughter Kelly Sweitzer (Ted Johns) from Sherwood, Ore., and his daughter, Pamela Maresh (Larry Maresh) from Milwaukie, Ore., and his sister, Arlene Risner, from Sun Lakes. An announcement of a Celebration of Life will be made later.

Thanks to Hospice of the Valley for their incredible care during John’s illness; donations in John’s honor can be made to Hospice of the Valley.