Myrna Elaine Bolio
Myrna Elaine Bolio passed recently on Feb. 20 after a lengthy illness at the age of 78. She suffered a severe stroke in October of 2000 and never fully recovered.
Myrna was the beloved wife of David Michael Bolio, also the mother of David Mark and of Dean Michael and Donald Matthew who both predeceased Myrna. She was grandmother to David Mathew and Derek Michael and great-grandmother to Nevah and Dylan.
Myrna lived the first 50 years of her life in her native Michigan before moving with her husband David to Sun Lakes, AZ, in 1991.
She will be greatly missed by her husband, her family, and friends.
Edward J. Carrillo
Edward J. Carrillo, 83, of Spokane, WA, passed away peacefully at his winter home in Sun Lakes, AZ, on Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2020. He was born on Sept. 22, 1936, just outside Trinidad, CO, to Eddie and Alice Carrillo. After graduating from Trinidad High School in 1954, he joined the U.S. Navy and served on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Shangri-La from 1954-1957 when he was honorably discharged. After returning to Trinidad, CO, for a short time, he moved to Seattle, WA, in search of better opportunities for work. He got a job in the warehouse of Graybar Electric, where he met Karla, the love of his life. They were married on Dec. 20, 1967, and moved to Spokane, WA, to start their family. They had two wonderful children: Marjorie “Margie” and James “Jim.” Ed enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, water skiing, golfing, and many other outdoor activities. After retiring, they split their time between Spokane and Sun Lakes, AZ, where he and Karla were both avid golfers.
Edward is preceded in death by his wife Karla, his parents, and two sisters: Donna and Aileen. He is survived by his children: Margie (Ken) and Jim (Amber); his granddaughter Jocelyn; grandson Joe; step-grandson Nick (Desiree), his sister Marian, niece and nephews: Joni, Steve, and Gary; brothers-in-law: Dick (Sandy), Monty (P.J.), and Ted (Peggy); other family; and many friends.
A Celebration of Life was held at their home in Sun Lakes, AZ.
Eleanor Lauria Davis
Eleanor Lauria Davis of Tempe, AZ, died Feb. 3, 2020. She was 96. She is survived by her daughters: Janice Johnston and husband Dale of Little Rock, AR; Dr. Lisa Davis Kulp and husband Alan of Mesa, AZ; Elena Davis of Mesa, AZ; and Amy Gordon and husband Alan of Claremont, CA; and her sons: Kent Davis of Bedminster, NJ; and Eric Davis of Richmond, VA. She is survived by 10 grandchildren: Jill Johnston; Neal Johnston; Gordon Johnston; Rachel Smoulder; Alexander Gordon; LT Thomas Kulp, USN; Kelly Kulp; Marco Antonio Davis; Lauren Davis; and LTJG Cassandra Davis, USN.
She was preceded in death by her parents Dr. Anthony and Antonia “Jennie” Lauria; her husband of 55 years, Dr. Earle R. Davis; and her daughter Susan Hickerson.
A native and longtime resident of Pittsburgh, she attended the University of Pittsburgh, where she received a BS degree in 1944 and an MS in 1950. She was a biology instructor at Pennsylvania College for Women (now Chatham College) from 1946 to 1953.
She was an avid volunteer and assumed a leadership role for numerous boards and organizations, including the Stanton Heights Garden Club, Piccadilly Herb Club, Allegheny County Federation of Women’s Clubs, St. Joseph’s Hospital Auxiliary, South Hills Health System Auxiliary, Allegheny County Medical Auxiliary, and the Democratic Party of Allegheny County. From 1988 to 1989 and 1992 to 1993, she served as President of the Pennsylvania Medical Society Alliance, representing the PMSA in Harrisburg on a variety of health matters. She was also a lecturer and continued to lecture to various groups on gardening, flowers, herbs, and other topics. In 2003, she relocated to Sun Lakes, AZ, where she continued to lecture, volunteer at Chandler Hospital, and serve as President of the Sun Lakes Garden Club. She was a lifelong learner and had numerous interests and hobbies, including herbs, gardening, silver jewelry making, flower arranging, needlework, calligraphy, and watercolor, acrylic, and China painting.
Friends were received Friday, Feb. 14, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Winter Funeral Home, 4730 Friendship Avenue. A funeral mass was held at St. Maria Goretti Parish, Immaculate Conception Church, 300 Edmond Street, Pittsburgh, PA, at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 15. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, friends may make a donation to Friendship Village of Tempe Foundation, Inc., 2645 East Southern Avenue, Tempe, AZ 85282-7649 or to the charity of their choice.
Shirley Jean Donatt
Shirley Jean Donatt was born to Steven and Theresa Drancik in Joliet, IL, on Feb. 26, 1932. Shirley attended public schools to grade 7 in Joliet when her family moved to LaSalle, IL, where she completed grade school and then attended the LaSalle-Peru Township High School, graduating in 1949. After graduation, she entered nurses training at St. Mary’s School of Nursing located in LaSalle, IL. She graduated in 1952.
Shirley married her high school sweetheart Don on May 1, 1951. She was with Don while he served in the U.S. Navy from 1951 to 1955. They were stationed in the States and lived primarily in Brunswick, GA, and Doylestown, PA.
After Don completed his Navy duty and undergraduate work at the University of Illinois, the couple settled in Libertyville, IL, where they raised their family. They had five children: Debora Jo, Lenore Ann, Donald Michael, Ellen Jean, and Kristen Marie. Shirley worked on a part-time basis in those early days and was one of the first nurses to complete studies for the new intensive care units that were just opening in the late 1950s and early 1960s.
As the children were beginning their college days, Shirley decided to return to college and get her advanced nursing degrees. Shirley worked as a “float nurse” in the early years and would do duty in all areas of the hospital. She became interested in operating room nursing and took an assignment there. She really enjoyed it, became very active in the operating room nursing organizations, became certified in O.R. Nursing, received her advanced degree and went into administration, became a certified nursing administrator, and accepted the position of Operating Room/Recovery Room Supervisor, a position she held for the last 21 years of her nursing career.
Shirley’s last 10 years in nursing were very rewarding. She had the opportunity to develop operating room nursing educational programs that were approved by the American Nurses Association and the Association of Operating Room Nurses and took nurses from this country and traveled abroad, teaching and lecturing to foreign nurses in an educational/cultural exchange program. The nurses who attended these events took tests, and if they passed, they were awarded 35 units of continuing education credits through Shirley’s program. As a bit of history for her children and grandchildren, Shirley wrote a book of her nursing activities titled Surely You Jest: The Memoirs of a Nurse.
As the years passed, much too quickly, Don and Shirley began thinking of where they would like to retire and spent summer vacations looking for the ideal place. They found Sun Lakes, AZ, and Shirley tendered her resignation in 1994, the couple sold their Illinois home and began a new life’s experience as a retired couple in Sun Lakes, AZ. It was there that Shirley discovered golf and became addicted to the game. She was fortunate to have had two hole-in-ones—two aces—and collected two trophies for that feat. Don was delighted for her, and now they both had two aces.
One of the most monumental, life-changing events of Shirley’s life took place on Reformation Sunday, 1962, when she became a Christian. After being reared as Roman Catholics, Don and Shirley read a book that entirely changed their lives. It was Roland Bainton’s book Here I Stand, and when Shirley read in Romans that salvation comes only through Justification by Faith, it was the beginning of a truly Christian life; of Grace and Peace and Love that brought so much meaning to her life. The meaning of God’s love for us, the Gift He has so freely given us, eternal life, just by accepting His gift of Love to us and by truly believing that Jesus is indeed the Son of God and that He died so we will have eternal life.
Shirley and Don found the Lutheran Church in Sun Lakes when services were being held at the All Faiths Chapel. They became very active in the small congregation, contributing their time to the choir. Shirley became a council member and helped in almost every project. They contributed toward the development of Risen Savior Lutheran Church and again contributed their time, especially singing with the Adult Choir. Shirley also faithfully volunteered with the Adult Day Care Center for three years, being there every Monday afternoon. She was elected to the Risen Savior Church Council and considered it a privilege to serve in any way possible.
Shirley’s deepest pride was in her five children. She adored them and would do anything for them. The family would plan and spend their summer vacations camping across our beautiful country, from the east coast through the western states. During the children’s growing-up years, many hours were spent in music lessons, concerts, jazz bands, sports activities, etc. Seeing her children grow and develop into such caring adults with families of their own was life’s most precious gift to her.
Shirley is survived by her four children and six grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her daughter Debra Jo. Interment will be in the columbarium, next do her beloved husband Don, at Risen Savior Lutheran Church, Chandler, AZ.
William (Bill) Joseph Jablonski
William (Bill) Jablonski passed away on Feb. 24, 2020, surrounded by his family. Bill was born in Milwaukee, WI, on April 15, 1946. He attended Boys Tech High School in Milwaukee. Bill served in the U.S. Army Infantry and served proudly in the 101st Airborne. He had a career in graphic arts and as a professional barber for 39 years. Bill retired to Sun Lakes, AZ, where he played golf, acted in local plays, was an artist, and loved dancing. But most of all, he loved to have fun and did so in whatever he was doing.
Bill is survived by his loving wife Judy, to whom he was married for 30 years. He is survived by son William and daughter Amy (Bryan) and granddaughter Darby Reese, who was the joy of his life; stepson James Mayer (Deborah); sisters Rosie, Kathy, and Cheryl; brother-in-law Stuart; and many nieces and nephews and grand-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Theodore and Cecelia Jablonski.
A celebration of life was held at the Cottonwood Country Club for his friends. He will be taken home to Wisconsin to his final resting place at the Union Grove Veterans Cemetery.
Robert Allen Kight
Robert Allen Kight, 71, passed on Friday, March 6, 2020, at Chandler Regional Hospital surrounded by his family.
He leaves his wife of 41 years, Carol (Bishop) Kight, his daughter Sherry (Brent) Jenkins, his daughter Gail Meyer, grandson Derek (Cheyenne) Jenkins, granddaughter Bailey Jenkins, grandson Ty Jenkins, three great-grandchildren, and many friends.
Born and raised in Aberdeen, SD, he was the son of Robert and Elaine Kight. After graduating from high school, he joined the Navy on June 10, 1966. He served his country honorably during the Vietnam War, working on submarines.
After retiring from the Navy, Bob (Bobby) settled in Phoenix, AZ, where he met the love of his life, Carol. Not only did he become a husband, but a father to her two girls. They shared a passion for fishing, camping, gardening, and Mexican food (Bud Light for him, Margaritas for her). He loved unconditionally, was fiercely protective of his family, and created a loving home.
“Poppa Bob,” as he was known to his grandchildren, was patient, playful, and loved to go for rides on the golf cart. He never seemed old to them, since he was always ready to go swimming, play the Wii, or stay on top of the latest technology gadgets.
Bob’s generosity had no boundaries, and there was never a dog that crossed his path that didn’t end up on his lap or in his arms. He loved his dogs, and they lived like royalty when in his home (often feeding them by hand).
After retiring from owning his HVAC company, he settled into helping in his community. From setting up for church service to providing home care for snowbirds, you never heard Bobby say he couldn’t help.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Elaine Kight and sisters Rosemary Rose and Lori Koski. He is survived by sister Gerri Boyle.
The family has chosen to have a private interment at Valley of the Sun.
“God finally said, enough, Bob, no more suffering.” -Stuart Koski
Maryann Alice Lear
Maryann Alice Lear passed away on Feb. 18, 2020. She was born on June 13, 1934, to Floyd and Mildred Lear in Wilson Borough, PA. She graduated from local Easton, PA, schools and earned an associate degree from Vermont College.
Her career began as a medical assistant to an OB-GYN doctor before taking on the role of executive secretary to a non-profit organization known as Studies in Higher Education. This association led to her serving as en loco parentis to the children of the Shah of Iran while they were in college in the United States. With the death of its founder, Maryann closed down the operation and went to work for Educational Testing Service in Princeton, NJ. She became the Associate Director of the Graduate Record Examination program and served many years as the executive secretary of its board of directors. Her meeting-planning duties during this tenure sparked an interest in becoming an entrepreneur in the travel business. She became co-owner and President of A-Kay Travel Services, Inc., in Glenview, IL, where she specialized in incentive travel for corporations with large sales forces.
On the sale of the travel business, Maryann retired to Sun Lakes, AZ. For several years, she worked part time as manager of the contract post office in Sun Lakes. She loved to play golf, play bridge, visit with friends, and go to the casino. Summers spent in Pinetop and Prescott Valley were very special, along with travels throughout North and Central America, Europe, Asia, and Australia.
Maryann leaves behind a brother, Bud; a sister, Patricia; two nephews, Eric and Michael; two grand-nephews, Jason and Andrew; and a great-grand-niece, Leila as well as best friends Judy Onken and family, as well as many friends in Sun Lakes and her church, Holy Trinity Lutheran.
Memorial gifts may be sent to Holy Trinity, 739 W. Erie St., Chandler, AZ 85225 or Hospice of the Valley, Attn: Fund Development, 1510 E. Flower St., Phoenix, AZ 85014-5656.
Alice “Pearl” Martin
Alice “Pearl” Martin was born March 16, 1924, in Wareham, MA, and passed peacefully in her sleep on Feb. 6, 2020, at the age of 95. Pearl is survived by daughters Paula McCormick and Deb Martin, four grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by husband Harvey Martin and daughter Donna Martin.
Pearl had an ongoing and long-lasting passion for golf. She held the course record at Sun Lakes for many years and had several holes-in-one. She enjoyed bingo, her flowers, and her garden. But mostly, Pearl loved her family and her Italian traditions.
Pearl was laid to rest at Valley of the Sun Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a donation in the name of Alice Martin to Hospice of the Valley would be appreciated.
Mary R. Morris (nee Dolan)
Mary R. Morris (nee Dolan) of Sun Lakes, AZ, formerly of Medford, NJ, passed away on Sunday, Feb. 23, 2020, at the age of 75.
Beloved wife of Edward Morris for over 53 years. Cherished daughter of predeceased William and Mary Dolan. Devoted mother of Regina M. Morris of Frisco, CO, and Edward J. (Maria) Morris III of Medford Lakes, NJ. Dear sister of Eileen Riegel and predeceased brother-in-law Ernie Riegel.
Mary was a very creative person. She loved her crafts. She was a beautiful sewer and most recently enjoyed adult coloring classes. She maintained a tradition of making family Christmas gifts with her great-nephew. Mary always worried about everyone else, putting others first. For many years, she volunteered for the Special Olympics bowling league, coaching the athletes. Mary also had a passion for traveling. She explored the world with her husband Ed. She led an active life, engaging in water aerobics, walking, and shopping. She was known for always finding the best values. She will be dearly missed.
Family and friends were invited to attend the viewing on Monday, March 2, 2020, at St. Teresa of Calcutta Parish; St John Church, 809 Park Avenue, Collingswood, NJ 08108 from 10 to 11 a.m. A Funeral Mass was celebrated at 11 a.m. Interment followed in Calvary Mausoleum, Cherry Hill, NJ. Please leave your remembrances of Mary on Blake-Doyle.com.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made in Mary’s name to ALS, 1275 K Street NW, Suite 250, Washington, D.C. 20005 or www.als.org.
LaRayne Morvig (Grove)
LaRayne Morvig (Grove) of Sun Lakes, AZ, passed away Feb. 27, 2020, one week after her 91st birthday.
She was born in Climax, MN, on Feb. 20, 1929. She married Obert Morvig on Feb. 25, 1948, at her parents’ home in Climax on a cold and snowy day. They had three children: LouAnn, Kathy, and Richard. And after many moves, they finally settled in Moorhead, MN.
LaRayne was an amazing mother who loved being with her children. She sewed many of their clothes, as well as her own.
LaRayne enjoyed baking, gardening, and crafting. She loved singing and playing piano. As a teenager, she sang in duets and small groups, and later with the “Southwest Singers” in Arizona.
In December, 1980, LaRayne and her daughter LouAnn opened “The Korner of Fashion” (women’s clothing store) in the Moorhead Center Mall. She loved going to market, interacting with customers, and creating the displays in the store.
In 1995 Obert and LaRayne moved to Sun Lakes, AZ, and built the home of their dreams. Both were so excited and truly loved Arizona… golfing, exploring, and making new friends. Obert unfortunately passed away in 1999, after they celebrated 50 years of marriage in 1998.
LaRayne continued to enjoy Arizona… golfing, traveling, and enjoying time with family (especially her grandchildren Nathan, Brandon, and Taylor). She loved playing cards and games, and also found joy in her Bible study group.
LaRayne always had a joke to share, with a wonderful sense of humor.
Since 2002 she was grateful to have her son Richard with her, as they spent precious time together.
LaRayne will be deeply missed by her daughter Kathy Willis (Earl) of Loveland, CO; son Richard Morvig of Tolleson, AZ; son-in-law David Skrei of Moorhead, MN; grandsons Nathan Skrei (Darla) of Tacoma, WA, and Brandon Skrei (Stephanie) of Moorhead, MN; granddaughter Taylor Willis of Loveland, CO; great-grandchildren Brady, Tiffany, and Kaitlyn Skrei of Tacoma, WA, and Ethan Sculthorp of Moorhead, MN; sister Carol Caouette (Bob) of Apache Junction, AZ; and several nieces and nephews.
LaRayne was preceded in death by her loving husband Obert; daughter, LouAnn Skrei (Morvig); parents Arthur and Idella Grove; brothers Mike, Vernon, and Ken Grove; sisters-in-law Lois Grove and Betty Morvig; and brother-in-law Chester Morvig.
LaRayne’s family would like to thank Hospice of the Valley for their support and comfort.
A celebration of LaRayne’s life was held on Friday, March 13, 2020, at 1:30 p.m. in Sun Lakes United Methodist Church, 9248 E. Riggs Road, Sun Lakes, AZ.
Doris Patricia (Patti) Palmieri
On Sunday, Feb. 23, 2020, Doris Patricia (Patti) Palmieri, resident of Belleair, FL, passed away at the age of 89.
Born in Erie, PA, in 1930, Patti married Leo D. Palmieri in 1950. Together they would have celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary in August of this year. Their marriage was an example of commitment, dedication, and living proof of their pledge to love one another unconditionally. They lived in numerous states, including Pennsylvania, Indiana, Michigan, New Jersey, Arizona, and Florida.
Patti enjoyed cooking, crocheting, gardening, and playing bridge.
She is survived by her husband Leo D. Palmieri; her children: David Palmieri (Gloria), Debbie Arfman (Dale), and Doreen Cassidy (Patrick); five grandsons: Anthony Palmieri, Chad Walls, Ryan Walls, Tyler Arfman, and Patrick (PJ) Cassidy; and four great-grandchildren. She is also survived by brothers: Edward Potthoff (Martha dec.), Donald Potthoff (Gerry), and Robert Potthoff (Shirley dec.); sister-in-law Linda McCaughan Potthoff; and many nieces and nephews.
Patti was preceded in death by her parents Edward C. and Leona (Erickson) Potthoff; brothers: Richard B. Potthoff (Joan) and John V. Potthoff; and sisters: Mary Jo Macke (Hank), Toni Madara (Bill), and Betty Jane Jacquel (Vern); and daughter-in-law Andrea Palmieri.
A private family memorial is being planned. Memorial contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, www. Alz.org.
William “Bill” Russell
William “Bill” Russell, 91, passed away in Chandler, AZ, on March 11, 2020. He and his wife Marilyn had lived in Sun Lakes for 27 years.
They moved here from Riverside, CA, in 1993. Bill was an avid golfer and bowler.
He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Marilyn; sons: John Russell and Bill Russell; stepson Brian Mellor; daughters: Linda Tinsley, Debra Russell, and Patricia Russell; as well as 15 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.
Bill was preceded in death by his daughter Diane and stepdaughter Jeri.
Sharon Slocum
On Feb. 20, 2020, Sharon Slocum was asked to report to her new career in heaven. Sharon was born on Aug. 10, 1937, in Peoria, IL. She attended school in Brimfield, IL. She was active in all sports and was also a cheerleader. Upon graduation from Brimfield School, she immediately commenced her first career as a switchboard operator. She also became a wife, mother, and supporter of her husband Jack.
Upon their move to Aurora, IL, she started a new career with Caterpillar Tractor Company as a clerk typist. Over the next 15 years with Caterpillar, she was often called upon to fill in for many different positions for which she easily performed, often above and beyond the call of duty.
As a mother, she excelled with nurturing advising, assisting in scouting activities, school and sports, and did discipline if necessary, all peppered heavily with love and understanding. She was the epitome of a good wife and lover. Encouraging, supporting, faithful, and most of all, an equal partner in every facet of marriage.
When Jack and Sharon were offered a transfer to Oregon, she enthusiastically agreed. Two years later, another transfer was offered to move to Japan, and yet again, Sharon jumped at the opportunity.
During her 12 years in Japan, she adopted a new persona. She began first by finding a way to help others by assisting new arrivals to Japan from other countries. She walked 8 to 10 miles a day, shopped, traveled often, studied Nihongo (800 hours), and hosted dinner parties for American, European, and Japanese VIPs. As a member of the Little Theater Group, she acted, co-produced, sang, and danced. She studied Ikebana and received a Masters Teaching Certificate for the seven-century-old art form. This is, in itself, a highly-notable achievement, especially for a foreigner.
After leaving Japan to start a well-earned retirement in Sun Lakes, AZ, she immediately began participating in aerobics, tennis, golf, Krafters at her church, and her Tuesday afternoon canasta games. If that weren’t enough for a retired woman, she accepted an appointment as Recording Secretary for the committee that was planning for the new sanctuary and overall campus expansion of Sun Lakes United Methodist Church. When that project was completed, she volunteered to be a part of the committee that planned and built the E.J. Robson Library.
Sharon was active in all parts of her community and will be missed and grieved not only by her family, but also by many people she connected with. Goodbye for now, Sharon, and Godspeed to heaven, as many friends and family are anxiously waiting to welcome you.
She was preceded in death by her father John Stables, her mother Mildred Stables, her brother Ronnie Stables, and her treasured niece Rhonda Turk.
She is survived by her loving husband of nearly 63 years, Jack Slocum; her son Jeffery Slocum (Karen) of Bandera, TX; her son Burton Slocum of Salem, OR; her grandson Tyler Slocum (Rebekka) of Salem, OR; her two great-grandsons Sawyer and Sylus of Salem, OR; and her favorite grand-pup Chica of Bandera, TX.
In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Jack and Sharon’s church, Sun Lakes United Methodist, or East Valley Hospice.
Marvin Alan Smith
Marvin Alan Smith passed away Jan. 24, 2020, at his home in Sun Lakes. Born in 1937 in Washington State, he grew up inspired by the wings aloft and set out to be a pilot from age 14. He earned his private license at 18 and joined the Air Force to pursue his dream in aviation. Becoming an aircraft radio operator, he was always near, in, and around aircraft. Following the Air Force, Marv moved back to Washington and started an aircraft radio shop at Paine Field, servicing aircraft of all genres and distinctions, including the famous P-51 Miss Bardahl, piloted by Chuck Lyford.
His love for big planes never waned, and he joined Boeing as a flight engineer in the mid-1960s. He was involved with Boeing Production Test Flight through the 720, 737, and 747 projects. As Boeing slumped in the early ‘70s, Marv decided to form a helicopter company servicing the growing timber and environmental management industry in Washington. He pioneered the use of helicopters in low-impact logging, reforestation, fish conservation, and wildfire control.
Following an accident in 1979, he continued flying, focusing on lower-risk aviation instruction, consulting, and excursions. He was an active commercial and ATP multi-rated pilot well into his 70s. As a pilot, he gained respect and admiration for his skills, professionalism, and innovation. Among his peers, he was considered one of the best rotor-craft pilots of his generation.
Retiring in Arizona in 2000, Marv became an active member of the local RC community, enjoyed golf, reading and spending time with his friends and family. He is survived by three children: Tim, Tracy, and Todd; four grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and sister Maureen Roesler.
Per Marv’s request, there will be no memorial service.
Albin “Al” Edward Tarchenski
Albin “Al” Edward Tarchenski was born on July 17, 1932, in Chicago, IL, to Michael and Pearl Tarchenski. Al served in the United States Navy from 1951 through 1955. After his time with the Navy, he became a tool and die maker for Conning & Pekara Co. He moved to Sun Lakes, AZ, in the year 2000. Al met his current wife Ann in Arizona, and they then got married in 2002. He enjoyed oil painting as well as playing golf with his brother Michael (Mickey) and his friends. Al and Ann enjoyed taking cruises all over the world. One of their favorite places to visit was England.
Al is preceded in death by his first wife Shirley, his brother Michael (Mickey) Tarchenski, and his sister Rose Pearl Enda.
Al is survived by his loving wife Ann Tarchenski, Mickey’s wife Marilyn Tarchenski, his son Kevin Tarchenski (Helen), his daughter Debbie O’Brien (Craig Lancaster), his son Brian Mackay (Mary), his daughter Sherry Miller (Michael), and his daughter Linda. He is also survived by nine grandchildren: Kevin Tarchenski (Danielle), Michael Tarchenski (Esmerelda), Ben Tarchenski (Aftyn), Emilee, Jack O’Brien, Michael O’Brien, Kaitlin Prugger (Dustin), Brian Mackay, and Amanda Mackay. Al also has seven great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life for Al will be held on April 4, 2020, at 1 p.m. at Valley of the Sun Mortuary at 10940 E. Chandler Heights Road, Chandler, AZ 85248. There will be a reception following the Celebration of Life at the same location. If anybody would like to leave a donation, donations can be made out to Hospice of the Valley Lund Home.
Lorraine Marie Twitchell
Lorraine Marie Twitchell (DeRoche) was born Sept. 14, 1928, and she passed away in Gardnerville, NV, on Jan. 26, 2020.
Lorraine grew up in a loving family in Chelsea, MA, and pursued a career in dancing after high school graduation. She married the love of her life, Robert B. Twitchell (predeceased) from Mendon, MA, and subsequently raised three children: Lyn, Jay, and Scott who are grateful for her love and care.
Lorraine and Robert lived in Saugus, MA; Merrimack, NH; Northridge, CA; Tempe, AZ; Mesa, AZ; and Sun Lakes, AZ. Throughout her life, Lorraine continued to dance and teach dance to both adults and children. While in Sun Lakes, she founded and directed a successful dance group known as the Silver Foxes.
Lorraine was a talented cook and seamstress as well. She was devoted to her family, and she enjoyed music, travel, and trips to casinos. Her faith was very important to her, and she was a lifelong Catholic.
Lorraine is survived by her three children, seven grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.
A Memorial Mass was held at St. Gall’s Catholic Church in Gardnerville, NV, on Feb. 3, 2020, and a Memorial Mass will be held at St. Steven’s Catholic Church in Sun Lakes, AZ, on a date TBD.
Beatrice “Bea” (Devor) Whitney
Beatrice “Bea” (Devor) Whitney, a former resident of Clinton, MN; Exeter, NH; and Sun Lakes, AZ, died Tuesday, March 3, 2020, surrounded by family. She was 83.
Born June 16, 1936, in Frederic, WI, Bea was the daughter of Edith Hughes and Arthur J. Devor. She grew up in Clinton, MN, and enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1954, where she met Richard “Dick” Whitney of Stoneham, MA. They were married on Dec. 10, 1955, and moved to Exeter, NH, in 1967, where they raised their five children and were active members of the community.
After raising her family, Bea trained to become a licensed practical nurse and worked with the Visiting Nurses Association. She also volunteered serving seniors through Meals on Wheels. Bea found her passion in golf and enjoyed the camaraderie of the Ladies Leagues at Wentworth by the Sea and Exeter Country Club, where she was Club Handicap Champion in the late 1970s.
She also cared for her husband Dick during his illness and subsequent death in 1986 at 51 years old. Following Dick’s death, Bea relocated to Sun Lakes where she joined her sister Eleanor and her family and enjoyed an active life filled with golf, travel, and strong friendships. Returning to the Seacoast in 2018, Bea was surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, all of whom she was most proud.
Survived by her five children: Caroline (Greg) Ward of Alton Bay, NH; Patricia (Lee) Dodier of Jackson Hole, WY; Richard (Amy O’Brien) of Chapel Hill, NC; Mark (Mary Anne Garrity) of The Woodlands, TX; and Lori (Jeff Turner) of Exeter; 11 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, her sister Eleanor (Mike) Sellers, and nieces: Sheila Sellers and Pam Perry, as well as other nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Dick and her brother Roger Devor.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held at St. Michael Catholic Church in Exeter on March 14, 2020. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the American Cancer Society.