In Passing

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Gaylen M. Brotherson

It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the passing of Gaylen Marvin Brotherson on May 8, 2026, at the age of 86. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and life-long entrepreneur whose larger-than-life spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Born Nov. 20, 1939, in Odebolt, Iowa, Gaylen graduated with the Wall Lake High School Class of 1957 before proudly serving in the United States Navy. During his service, he served in the Naval Air Service aboard several aircraft carriers and later attended Stetson University in Florida and Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa.

Throughout his life, Gaylen pursued his passions with remarkable ambition and determination. His career spanned multiple fields: finance, insurance, real estate, motorsport promotion, and the motorcycle industry. From operating speedways throughout the Midwest to owning motorcycle dealerships and creating multiple successful companies, he built a legacy defined by entrepreneurship, innovation, and hard work. Gaylen loved cars, motorcycles, NASCAR racing, boating, golf, and travel. He was known for his tenacious spirit, and ability to make an impression wherever he went. He lived boldly, worked tirelessly, and loved deeply.

In 1984, Gaylen moved his family from Council Bluffs, Iowa to Scottsdale, Ariz., where he and his wife Judy built a beautiful life together, running several businesses. Gaylen and Judy were inseparable, whether working or playing, during their 57-year marriage. In retirement, Gaylen and Judy moved to Sun Lakes where they enjoyed watching football with friends and attending music shows hosted at Cottonwood.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Judy (Steffensmeier) Brotherson; his daughters Jennifer Johns (Tim Johns) of Mesa, Ariz., and Gina Halland of Scottsdale, Ariz.; and six cherished grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Viola Brotherson of Council Bluffs, Iowa; his sister, Mariel Kendall of Council Bluffs, Iowa; and his brother, Clarke Brotherson of Mesa, Ariz.

The family would like to say a special thank you to Hospice of the Valley and Estancia of Sunnydale for their kindness and care during this difficult time.

A memorial will be held at Valley Presbyterian Church, Scottsdale, on May 28, 2026, 2 p.m. followed by an open house at the home of Gaylen and Judy, Sun Lakes, at 5 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice of the Valley.

James “Jim” Alvino

James “Jim” Alvino, 79, entered eternal life on May 5, 2026. Born Feb. 20, 1947, in Freeport, Pa., Jim carried with him a steady pride in where he began and a bright confidence in what dedication and learning could build over a lifetime.

From the start, Jim’s mind was tuned to how things work—and how to make them work better. He graduated from Gannon University with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, then went on to earn a master’s degree in Engineering Science at Pennsylvania State University, a path that reflected both discipline and a sharp, thoughtful intelligence.

Jim devoted his entire career to the General Electric Locomotive Division, beginning as an engineer and retiring as a Senior Executive. His work took him from the Erie, Pa., plant to Grove City, Pa., and on to Monterrey, Mexico—years marked by perseverance, steady leadership, and the kind of work ethic that speaks loudest through consistency.

When Jim retired, he and his wife Jackie moved from Erie, Pa., to Sun Lakes, Ariz. He filled his retirement days with the pleasures that suited him best: golf and pickleball. True to form, he kept things practical and fun—in the early days his summer car was a Chevy Corvette, and his winter car was a Ford Taurus.

Jim was a member of the Catholic Church; a quiet thread of community and faith that helped shape the rhythm of his life and the way he showed up for others.

He is survived by his loving spouse, Jackie Alvino, with whom he shared 59 years of marriage; his daughter, Mandy Alvino; his son, Andrew (Vaidila) Alvino; his granddaughter, Gabriella Alvino; and his sister, Bonnie Ott. He is predeceased by his parents, James and Virginia Alvino.

With gratitude, the family acknowledges Pam at Mercy’s Care Home for her care and kindness.

Jim will be remembered with admiration and affection—for a life built through hard work, guided by intellect, and lived with purpose, loyalty, and lasting love.

Robert Park

Robert (Bob) Park of Sun Lakes, Ariz., passed away on May 3, 2026, at the age of 96.

Bob was born in Michigan and spent his high school years in Marshall, Mich., where he met Alice, his high school sweetheart who would become his first wife. He dropped out of high school before his senior year to enlist in the Army to be able to attend college on the GI Bill.

After serving in Korea, Bob returned to the USA, got married, and earned a B.A. degree in chemistry with a minor in mathematics from Albion College. Years later, while working and raising a family, he attended night classes at Western Michigan University to earn an MBA in management.

Bob was a devoted husband and caring father. He and his growing family spent a formative decade in Fredericksburg, Va., where their four children were born.

Those years were filled with learning, adventure, and cultural enrichment. Bob loved the rich history of the region and explored the Civil War battlefields and museums appreciating both the history and stories from that era. The family shared many memorable adventures sailing, camping and winter skiing in the Rockies.

Bob and his family eventually returned to Michigan and settled in Grand Rapids, where he enjoyed his time leading a research team at the Packaging Corporation of America. He also enjoyed positions at Appleton Papers Company and Shawano Paper Mills in Wisconsin.

After Bob lost his first wife at the age of 55 from cancer, he worked in Shawano until his retirement and then relocated to Sun Lakes, Ariz. There he met June, his beloved wife of 28 years. Together they traveled internationally, enjoyed many rounds of golfing, and hosted parties with Sun Lakes friends. Bob was a skilled woodworker who built beautiful furniture and an accomplished creator of stained glass pieces. He loved classical music and sang in the ASU Chorale. He was also a voracious reader of historical nonfiction books.

He will be remembered for his deep, abiding faith and love of God, for his steadfastness and quiet humor, and for his freely shared opinions. He believed in doing what was right and supporting those around him.

Bob is survived by his wife, June Park; his four children, Libby Balch (John), Mary Park (Linda Dirksmeyer), Don Park, Barbara LaMotte (Mike); eight grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be forthcoming.

Anthony Joseph Pompili

Anthony Joseph Pompili, 66, died May 2, 2026. Born Nov. 3, 1959, in Youngstown, Ohio, Tony was the son of Joseph and Shirley (DiMichaelangelo) Pompili Sr. The family moved to Longmont, Colo., where he later graduated from Longmont High School in 1978.

Tony began his professional education in radio broadcasting and technical work and also printing and photography while attending the Career Development Center in Longmont. His curiosity and steady competence carried him into a distinguished career in journalism and technology, including work as a journalist for PC Magazine and as a technical consultant for Ziff Davis—roles that suited his practical wisdom, clear-minded approach, and generous willingness to share what he knew.

A man of wide interests and spirited pursuits, Tony brought a sense of adventure to the things he loved. He earned his private pilot’s license right out of high school and remained drawn to the skies through his passion for photography and his skill as an experienced drone pilot. Travel also called to him, and he delighted in visiting worldwide destinations such as Spain, Israel, England, and Italy. On the ground, he found joy in motorcycle riding, took particular pride in his Ryobi tools, and recently developed new skills in 3D printing—always ready to learn, build, and explore what was possible.

Tony also expressed his care for others in the most tangible way: through what he made and shared. An accomplished bread, pasta, and cheesemaker, he brought both craft and warmth to the kitchen. One of Tony’s favorite creations was squid ink pasta, which famously led to several occasions of cleaning ink up from his mother’s kitchen—memories that reflect not only his playful humor, but the lively, loyal presence he brought to family life.

Tony’s quick, sharp sense of humor was matched by a deep generosity toward all who knew him. He had a remarkable gift for bantering with his brother in a way that entertained his mom and sisters, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, closeness, and enduring affection.

Tony is survived by his sister, Mona Pompili; his brother, Joseph Pompili Jr. (Toni); and nieces and nephews, Merce (Humberto) Gonzales, Matt Gonzales, Chelsea (Matt) Merrill, and Mitch Agee. He is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Shirley; his sister, Michele (Jim) Agee; and his brother-in-law, Michael Martin.

Tony resided in Sun Lakes, Ariz.

Priscilla F. Corbus

Priscilla, or Pris as she was universally known, was born Oct. 5, 1939, and raised in Ridgewood, N.J., the second of two daughters. When she was little, she would visit her grandparents in Buffalo, N.Y., and play by the shores of Lake Erie. As she got older, she switched shores, spending summers at the Jersey Shore, waiting tables, and enjoying the sun and surf. She attended Ridgewood High School and then college at Northwestern University. She was a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority where she made lifelong friends. Pris Graduated in 1961.

While at Northwestern, she went to Ft. Lauderdale for her senior year spring break, where she met her future husband, G. Barclay (Barc) Corbus, a senior at Dartmouth College. After graduation, Pris taught elementary school in Evanston, Ill., while Barc served two years in the army. After his service they were married and moved to Palo Alto, Calif., where Pris taught school while Barc attended Stanford Business School. They later moved to Colorado and had a son, Clay Corbus. As he grew up, Pris supported Clay’s activities, being Team Mom, Cub Scout Mom, and President of the PTA. She loved taking him to Cape Cod for summers where her parents had a cottage. In the late ’70s Pris and Barc built a cabin in the Colorado mountains where the family enjoyed spending winter weekends skiing and summers at Columbine Lake. Once Clay had graduated she enjoyed spending summers in Colorado and winters in Sun Lakes.

Pris moved into the Robson Reserve in 2018 with Biscuit. The two of them were well known and loved throughout the community. She passed away on April 27, 2026.

Pris was a generous, kind, loving and fun person, with a little bit of spice thrown in. She is survived by her husband Barc, her son Clay and his wife Elizabeth, their children Josiah, Ellie and James. And, of course, by Biscuit.

We will miss her very much.

Mary Lynn Currie

Mary Lynn Currie passed away peacefully on April 15, 2026, at the age of 75, leaving behind a legacy of love, creativity, strength, and joy that will be felt for generations.

She is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Douglas Currie; her cherished children, Bryce and Jennifer (Miguel Urrutia); and her adored grandchildren, Ella, Katya, Brixton, and Cadmun. Mary Lynn took immense pride in her family and found her greatest happiness in being present for every celebration, adventure, and moment of fun. As a grandmother, she was fully engaged in life with her grandchildren—always ready to join the action, laugh loudly, and create lasting memories. She is also fondly remembered by her brother, Keith Kerr (Carrie), (Margaret and Chris Martin), (Graeme and Hayley Kerr) and their children.

She will be greatly missed as well by Doug’s only sister, Leslie and her husband Paul.

Mary Lynn had a lifelong love of animals and a special affection for her beloved West Highland Terriers, whose spirited nature suited her perfectly. Her bond with animals was deep and enduring.

In her younger years, Mary Lynn was an accomplished rider and equestrian, spending countless hours riding and jumping horses. Her horse, Spartan, held a treasured place in her heart and remained one of the great loves of her life.

As an educator, Mary Lynn made a profound difference in the lives of many students. She taught with passion and dedication, specializing in art and French, and later became highly respected and widely sought after for her work teaching English as a Second Language. She brought patience, intelligence, and heart into every classroom she entered.

Her creative spirit was deeply influenced by her father, George Garnet Kerr, a respected architect and gifted oil painter. That artistic legacy lived strongly within Mary Lynn, whose own creativity touched every part of her life.

Her mother Nora Kerr (Burns) was always close to Mary Lynn’s heart and Mary Lynn would constantly apologize to Doug for not having paid close enough attention to Mother’s culinary skills as “Mum” was always inviting family for Sunday dinners that were enjoyed by all.

In retirement, Mary Lynn and Doug enjoyed 23 wonderful years in the Sun Lakes community of Chandler, where they built cherished friendships and created treasured memories. Their home became a warm gathering place, especially at Christmas, when family would come together to celebrate, laugh, and enjoy time with the many beloved animals who were part of their lives.

Mary Lynn will be remembered for her radiant glow, infectious laugh, creative leadership, and unshakable will. She lived with determination, warmth, and spirit, leaving an unforgettable mark on all who knew and loved her.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

If friends so desire, donations may be made directly to the Calgary Humane Society.

Donna Carter

Donna, age 92, a woman who truly loved life and embraced every moment, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 13, 2026 surrounded by family at her home in Sun Lakes, Ariz.

She leaves behind a legacy of warmth and a vibrant spirit, full of love and laughter for the ages. Donna loved to entertain and gather all whom she cared for, making every get-together special. Through her beautifully set tables and her amazing cooking skills, all were welcome. Along with her ability to recall every story and life event in great detail for all whom she held close, you could always count on her laughter through her story telling or just being with her.

Donna filled her life with joy. She was a cherished friend to many. She started a bridge club that grew into dear, lifelong friendships. They not only played bridge, but “The Little Honeys” enjoyed slumber parties at cabins, getaways, and never missed the opportunity to help one another. Donna also enjoyed time with three of her other dear friends who explored and tried new things like skiing, snowmobiling, and hiking, which led to many great discussions and laughter-filled lunches. She cherished all of her friendships deeply. Her love for learning and exploring took her on wonderful travels. Her beloved times in Acapulco, travels through Europe, and cruises with family were special highlights.

Above all, Donna was the heart of her family. She was a loving mother, wife, and grandmother who took immense pride in creating a beautiful home for her family. She assured us that we all knew her love and pride for us was always strong, and we, her children, knew we could be or do any little thing that we could imagine.

Donna was born on the family farm in Spring Valley, Wis., to Ben and Inez Swenson. She experienced the loss of her father at the young age of 2 ½ years old, a hardship that shaped her appreciation for life, and a resilience that carried her through all of her days. She came from a hardworking and caring family. She had a happy, active childhood and was very close to her two sisters along with her cousins.

Donna graduated from Ellsworth High School, class of 1951. She went on to Beauty School and bought her own salon at the age of 21 in 1954 in River Falls, Wis. She owned and operated her salon for over 54 years. This speaks to her strong spirit and business savvy. She gained many employees and clients through the years who also became friends. She loved her “salon girls.”

Donna enjoyed sports, especially the Green Bay Packers. She cherished the years she and Jerry and their dear friends had season tickets together. They didn’t miss a home game!

She enjoyed music, dancing, and singing since she was a little girl. Donna’s children loved standing as close as possible to her in church when hymns were sung. She naturally had a voice that carried so beautifully—it was glorious to try and sing along with her.

In retirement, Donna moved to Sun Lakes with her husband, Frank, where they enjoyed their home on the golf course for 27 years.

Donna was grateful through all of her days for her life experiences, relationships, and family. She knew with all of her heart, and through her strong faith, that there was comfort in the glory of the love that was awaiting her in heaven.

Donna is preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Frank Gombold; and her sisters, Audrey Erickson and Beverly Gaard. She is survived by her children, Greg Carter of River Falls, Wis., and Cari Carter (Randy Bos) of Scottsdale, Ariz.; grandchildren Tara Carter, Samantha Carter, Jacob Bos, and Samantha Bos; great-grandchildren Hayden and Hunter Schweiz; in addition to nieces and nephews, who she loved dearly.

A celebration of Donna’s life was held on Friday, May 1, 2026 at Ezekiel Lutheran Church in River Falls, Wis.

Courtland B. Birchard

Courtland B. Birchard, of Birchardville, Pa., went to be with his Savior on Saturday, April 4, 2026. Born June 12, 1930, the second son of Carlton and Lillian (Ackerman) Birchard. He attended one-room schoolhouses through eighth grade, then Montrose High School, graduating in 1948. While in school, teachers encouraged Court’s pencil drawing and he developed an interest in magic and ventriloquism. He and his sidekick Joey entertained throughout his life.

Court served in Korea from 1954 to 1956. He used the G.I. Bill to obtain an Associate Degree in Electronics in 1958. He worked in the lab at Transformers, Inc. of Vestal, N.Y. There he met Mary Moore, a department supervisor; a widow with three teenagers. They were married in 1965 and built a home in Birchardville.

In the ’70s, Transformers closed. They decided to find a way to live off their land. They sold organically grown vegetables and beef, stone from his quarry, and hosted deer hunters from Canada and the northeast. While recovering from back surgery, he started drawing again. Mary suggested he draw on stone. That was the beginning of his art career, engraving beautiful pictures on stone, and making stone craft items. They would go to art shows and had a building at the Harford Fair for many years.

After Mary passed, he and Joey spent winters from 2009 to 2019 with his daughter Lyn Munn in Sun Lakes. He was in the Desert Artists, Metal Detectors, Citrus Pickers, and Camera Clubs, and attended church with Lyn. In 2017 he donated funds that would give a $1,000 scholarship annually, forever. The Courtland Birchard Scholarship awards began in 2018.

Court was a man of faith, having accepted Christ as His Savior in the 1960s. It is very fitting that he passed the day before Easter and was in Heaven with Mary to celebrate. A humble and kind man, Court made friends wherever he went.

He is survived by his younger brother Gene, daughters Lyn Munn (William) and Shirley Ewain (Dan) of Endicott, N.Y., three grandchildren, and one great-grandson. He is predeceased by his parents, wife Mary, older brother Selden, and son Daniel Weyant.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Courtland Birchard Scholarship Fund, c/o Community Foundation, 270 Lake Avenue, Montrose, PA 18801. His funeral will be held on April 25 in Binghamton, N.Y., with burial next to his beloved Mary in Vestal.

Dorothy Devereaux

Dorothy “Dottie” Claire Devereaux (née Weikel), age 90, passed away peacefully on March 25, 2026, in Sun Lakes, Ariz., surrounded and comforted by her daughters. Born on Feb. 23, 1936, in Camden, N.J., she was the beloved daughter of Thelma and Charles Weikel.

Dottie grew up in Camden and attended Camden Catholic High School, where she was a spirited cheerleader. During high school, she began dating her sweetheart, John “Jack” F. Devereaux. The two were married Sept. 13, 1958, and were husband and wife for over 60 years.

She and Jack raised five children—Denise Devereaux, Donna Benjamin, John Devereaux (deceased), Darlene Locke (Dan Locke), and Dawn Devereaux-Davies (Carl Davies)—in Cinnaminson, N.J. In 1980, the family relocated to Mesa, Ariz. While in Arizona, Dottie and Jack doted on their growing family as they became grandparents.

Known affectionately as “MomMom” by her grandchildren—Brittany Bell (Brandon Bell), Kyle Benjamin, Randy Locke (Meshi Locke), Steven Locke (partnered with Breanna)—and great-grandchild, Ryan Locke, Dottie cherished her family above all else.

Dottie and Jack happily retired in Sun Lakes, Ariz., where they embraced an active lifestyle. They were each avid tennis players and loved to socialize with their friends during community social events. Dottie and Jack loved to dance and Dottie was a member of the Red Hat Society.

Dottie’s life was marked by love, devotion, and resilience. She was a brilliant homemaker who took pride in her home and nurturing her children. Her warmth extended to everyone she met, creating lasting friendships wherever she went—from her early days in Cinnaminson to her golden years in Sun Lakes.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Jack; her son, John; and her brothers, Charles and Robert Weikel.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of the Valley for providing compassionate end-of-life care for both Dottie and Jack.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026, at 10 a.m. at St. Steven’s Roman Catholic Church in Sun Lakes, Ariz., with a luncheon to follow at the church hall.

John F. “Jack” Devereaux

Nov. 1, 1935—Aug. 24, 2020
Jack was born in Camden, N.J. He passed away peacefully at home on Monday, Aug. 24, 2020.

He was the son of Joseph and Leona Devereaux. Jack’s siblings (predeceased) are Mary Devereaux, Joseph Devereaux (Monica), and Leona Weast (Gus). His loving and devoted wife Dorothy Claire Devereaux passed away recently in Sun Lakes on March 25, 2026.

He is survived by four daughters, Denise Devereaux, Donna Benjamin, Darlene Locke (Dan), Dawn Devereaux Davies (Carl), and one son, John Devereaux (predeceased). Jack was a wonderful, loving, patient, powerful man and a devoted, traditional husband and father. Jack is also survived by four grandchildren Brittany Bell (Brandon), Kyle Benjamin, Randy Locke (Meshi), and Steven Locke. They enjoyed having a “Poppop” who was supportive, loving, and kind. Our family now has many angels watching over us and protecting us from afar. We take comfort in knowing they are together again in heaven and can be at peace without pain.

Jack taught us all how to be self-sufficient, responsible individuals and to always think for ourselves. He showed us firsthand how hard work and sacrifice brings big gains and rewards. Mom and Dad’s anniversary is Sept. 13. They were married over 60 years and were a great example of living “within your means,” saving, conservatism, taking care of family, friendship, and managing hardships, heartache, and disappointment.

Jack graduated from Camden Catholic High School and Villanova where he was a star athlete. He worked for a variety of paper products and office supply distributing companies, both McKesson and Topps. In retirement, Jack continued to work part time at Dillard’s department store at Chandler Mall for 12 years. He and Dottie were the best-dressed couple and bigger than life keeping active and social in Sun Lakes.

We will be honoring our father and officially laying him to rest alongside his darling wife Dottie on April 24, 2026, at 10 a.m. at St. Steven’s Roman Catholic Church in Sun Lakes, with a luncheon to follow.

Karin Meade

Karin Lynn Meade, 60 years old, passed peacefully on Monday, March 26 at home surrounded by friends and family.

Karin, the youngest of four siblings, was born on Dec. 7, 1965, to Kathleen Irwin and Clifton Talley in Minot, N.D. Karin’s childhood was spent in Moorhead, which is also where she graduated from college at Moorhead State University.

Karin moved to the Minneapolis metro area after college where she worked for Target Stores, which is where she met her husband, Peter. Together they built a beautiful home and life together. In 1997 they welcomed their son, Ryan, into the world. Though his time was brief, he brought joy, laughter, and many wonderful memories to the family. Ryan passed away in 2002 and like his mother Karin, everyone who knew him was a better person for the experience.

In 2000 we moved to Olathe, Kan., for a short time. This is where Karin had her first major medical incident. In June of 2001, Karin was hospitalized after chiropractic manipulation caused a brain stem injury. She spent 25 years as a quadriplegic. In 2004 Karin and Peter moved to Sun Lakes where she successfully battled two bouts of breast cancer. She was diagnosed with an aggressive form of bladder cancer in November 2026.

Karin loved to travel. Some of her favorites were Niagara Falls; Kauai and Hawaii; Banff and Jasper, Alberta; and of course visiting family and friends in the Midwest. Having said that, probably her favorite place was her home and her backyard. Sitting in the sun, watching her koi, entertaining people, and being just amazing. Karin provided inspiration and courage to everyone around her. Her charisma, love, and independence were infectious.

Karin is survived by her husband, Peter, and her mother, Kaye. She is also survived by her siblings, Clinton, Leigh, Joe, and many nieces and nephews.

May 9 is Karin’s Day! We will host a service with time for people who wish to say something. The service will be held on May 9, 11 a.m. at Valley of the Sun Mortuary located at 10940 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler, AZ. Following the service there will be an open house and celebration at Karin and Peter’s home located at 23910 S. Sunland Ct. in Sun Lakes. If you are unable to attend but would like to view via zoom, please use this link and get on zoom prior to 10:50 a.m. on May 9.
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82015522165?pwd=4ISAOQEwgQQDLNx9trPfbxC78xVzpE.1

Robert Frederick Hirt

Robert Frederick Hirt passed away on March 20, 2026, at the age of 90 years old. He was born in East Greenbush, N.Y., near Albany, in February 1936 of German immigrants who built a full working farm with cows, chickens, horses, honey bees, and more, where he spent his youth among his five other siblings, until he went off to college. He never tired of telling stories of his farm days, getting up in the wee hours of the morning, and tending to the duties of the animals and land. It was hard work that he loved, sometimes loathed, and everything in between, and which provided an endless amount of tales to his wife and kids and anyone who would listen. He was such an engaging story teller!

He leaves behind his wife Patricia, of nearly 58 years, who he married in 1968 in Buffalo,N.Y.; his three children Robert Matthew (57), Kristin (55), and Kathryn (54); daughter-in-law Susan (50); and two grandchildren, London (16) and Cecelia (14).

Robert went to Cornell University for veterinary medicine, where he graduated in 1962. Upon graduation he worked as a large animal veterinarian in Western New York, until he switched to small animal practice in 1973, under the practice of Dr. Lindsay in West Seneca, N.Y. In 1978 he built Southtowns Animal Hospital in the same location, which still exists today, with one of the original employees! He loved veterinary medicine, large and small for different reasons, and especially loved doing surgery in the small animal domain. He wrote two separate books of short stories about his work as both large and small animal veterinarian in books titled “Reflections: The Stories and Life of a Country Vet” and “Musings: Great Memories and Reflections On a Life Well Lived.”

He regularly contributed stories that were published in the Sun Lakes Splash, and loved to both write and share stories of his life, particularly from the small town near Albany where he grew up and where he raised his family in Western New York.

He also went to Florida State University in the 1990s to learn acupuncture for the treatment of animals, and was one of a small number of pioneering veterinarians who used acupuncture in his animal hospital. He was so excited about using it, he would sometimes offer his services for free to clients who could otherwise not afford it.

Robert was a devoted Catholic who served as Eucharistic Minister for many years. He regularly took our Lab to visit nursing homes.

He retired in 1998, upon which his wife Patricia and he moved to Sun Lakes, and developed an incredibly wide network of friends, and was a regular at the gym until the very day he passed. His sense of humor will be remembered by everyone whose life he touched, from acquaintances to former employees, to close friends and family, and he epitomized the phrase “Dad jokes.” He loved to laugh at the irony and sometimes absurdity of life and turn challenging situations into moments to crack up in laughter instead.

Always a gentleman, he will be remembered for his big heart, warm smile, genuine decency, and love of his family, as well as of animals. He will be deeply missed and remembered with great humor and heart.

Gary Ralph DuBois

Gary Ralph DuBois, 88, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026, in Sun Lakes, Ariz. Born on Feb. 26, 1938, in Chicago, Ill., Gary grew up in Chicago and built a respected career as an executive with North Shore Gas, where he worked until his retirement.

Gary married Carol Hutchins, and together they created a life centered on family and shared passions. He served his country in the U.S. Army for two years, a period of service he was proud to have given. In 1999, they made Sun Lakes their home in the Oakwood community, where they spent over 25 wonderful years enjoying the Arizona lifestyle.

Gary was an automotive enthusiast with a lifelong passion for Corvettes, owning several fine examples throughout his adult years and maintaining active memberships in multiple national Corvette clubs—a hobby that brought him immense joy and connected him with fellow enthusiasts across the country.

A devoted member of his church choir, Gary treasured his years singing as a deep baritone, a passion that enriched both his life and his faith community for many years. An avid golfer and train enthusiast, Gary found pleasure in life’s simple joys. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who treasured time spent with his family, whether near or far.

Gary was preceded in death by his beloved wife Carol DuBois and his two children, Laura Stephenson and Michael DuBois. He is survived by his two cherished grandchildren, Abbey DuBois of Illinois, Sabrina Stephenson of Australia, and his Hutchins brothers-in-law and their families (Robert and Jackie, Paul and Kathleen, Jim and Dessa, nieces and nephews).

A memorial service will be held at Risen Savior Lutheran Church on May 13 at 1 p.m. Gary will be remembered for his generous spirit, his passion for life, and the warmth he brought to all who knew him. Memorials in his memory may be directed to Risen Savior Lutheran Church.

Phyllis Rose Schwab

Phyllis Rose Schwab passed away on Feb. 25, 2026, at the age of 93. Phyllis was born on Dec.1, 1932 in Chicago, Ill., to the late Joseph and Frances Badaluco.

Phyllis grew up in Chicago and graduated from Fenger High School. She was an outgoing and energetic wife and mother of three children. Phyllis was creative and loved to have fun. Always a lover of physical activity, she became passionate about golf. She was also an excellent bridge and Mahjong player. In her earlier years, Phyllis became an accomplished seamstress and part-time legal secretary. She loved fashion and was always designing her own clothing, including men’s 3-piece suits. Although she was not college educated, she used her determination and self-discipline to learn the skills necessary to become a legal secretary, which included teaching herself typing and shorthand.

Phyllis is survived by her daughters, Jill Chomer, Joy (Jim) Bowles, and son, Brett (Belinda) Chomer; her grandchildren: Lauren (Brian) Manfred, Hunter (Victoria) Chomer, Clint and Spencer Bowles; and great-grandchildren: Reid and Hayes Manfred, and Olivia and Shayne Chomer.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her two grandsons: Blake Fleischner and Chase Chomer.

A private Celebration of Phyllis’ life will be held at a later date with the immediate family.

Anna Jane Janicki

Anna Jane Janicki, 87, passed away on Feb. 19, 2026, in Chandler, Ariz. Her unconditional love for all, generosity, laughter, and kindness to everyone will be deeply missed.

Anna was born on Nov. 10, 1938, in Buffalo, N.Y., to her late parents, Leo and Anna Tuholski. Throughout her school age years she attended Catholic school and was a woman of deep faith throughout her life. She would dedicate her daily prayers to many and always signed her cards and said goodbye with “God bless.”

Anna met William C. Janicki on a blind date and was married Aug. 23, 1958. Throughout their 68 years of marriage, they lived in a variety of places—Elma, N.Y.; Upland, Calif.; Dublin, Calif.; Plano, Texas; Trabuco Canyon, Calif.; Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.; and retirement in the last 20 years in Sun Lakes, Ariz. Together they had two children, David and Deborah.

Anna‘s patience and dedication to helping others provided her the career as a teacher‘s aid where she enjoyed interacting with students and staff, and was loved by all. During her retirement, she volunteered her time delivering food with Meals on Wheels and helping the elderly, even to her own husband who lost his sight.

Anna loved to play games. On a snowy day in Elma, N.Y., she would spend hours playing numerous box games with her daughter. She loved a good card game with neighbors and in her final years playing card games online with a cold beer and a bowl of popcorn.

Friends and family will remember Anna for her unwavering generosity and thoughtfulness. She found joy in giving to others. Her laughter will resonate with us for many years to come.

She is survived by her husband, William Janicki; son, David Janicki; daughter-in-law, Robin Janicki; daughter, Deborah Freeman; and grandchildren, Dalton Freeman and Davis Freeman.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Saint Steven’s Church, 24827 S. Dobson Rd., Sun Lakes, AZ 85248 followed by laid to rest at Valley of the Sun Cemetery in Chandler, Ariz.

She found peace in donating to Catholic charities and her time to Neighbors Who Care and Meals on Wheels.