In Passing

If you would like to submit an obituary for In Passing, please limit your submission to 400 words or less and submit it and a photo (if you have one) via email at editorial@robson.com or online at robsonpublishing.com/editorial.

Previous In Passing posts may be found here or by searching by name in the upper right-hand sidebar.

Virginia A. Bekavac (Hayes)

Virginia Bekavac, age 98, passed away Feb. 6, 2026, surrounded by loving family in her final days. She is survived by her son John Bekavac; daughters Peggy Olson (Doug), Connie Murray (Scott), and Cathy Duthie (Graham); grandchildren Eric, Jenna, Elena, Maureen, Mark, Michael, and Max; great-granddaughter Berkeley; brothers James Hayes Jr., Charles Hayes, and Michael Hayes; and sister Mary Raber. She is preceded in death by her husband, Ante Bekavac, and her parents, James Hayes Sr. and Margaret Decker Hayes.

Born and raised in Duluth, Minn., Virginia attended Stanbrook Hall and earned degrees from both the College of St. Scholastica and the University of Minnesota—Duluth. She then embarked upon an exceptional and varied teaching career. An advocate of life-long learning, Virginia taught elementary school in Minneapolis before heading to McGraw Kaserne in Munich, Germany, with the Department of Defense Dependents Schools. She met Ante during this time, and they married in a military chapel near Perlacher Forst. After moving back to the Twin Cities to raise her family, Virginia taught elementary school at North St. Paul-Maplewood-Oakdale Public Schools. She ended her teaching career in adult education with St. Paul Public Schools. Countless adults, immigrants and refugees earned GED certification under her guidance.

As a catechist, Virginia guided children’s faith formation at Transfiguration Catholic Church in Oakdale, Minn., for many years. She and Ante traveled the globe visiting family and friends, seeing famous sites and experiencing different cultures. They moved to Sun Lakes for a warm and active retirement and were parishioners of St. Stevens Catholic Church.

Virginia will be remembered for her absolute devotion to family, wanderlust for travel, avid interest in world news and sports, love of photography, and passion for helping those less fortunate.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held March 7, 2026, at 10:30 a.m., at Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Ahwatukee, with a Celebration of Life luncheon to follow. Private interment will take place at Valley of the Sun Cemetery in Chandler.

Sander Burton Frindell

Sander Burton Frindell passed away on Feb. 3, 2026. Sander was born in Rhinelander, Wis., on Dec. 13, 1933. Sander was the youngest of three siblings, having two older sisters. Sander’s family moved to Waco, Texas, his mother’s hometown, after his father’s early death in 1943.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 65 years, Anita; his children Lisa (Michael) Wasserman (Chicago) and Harrison Scott Frindell (Scottsdale); and five grandchildren.

Sander earned his B.A. from Rice University in Houston, Texas, in 1955 where he was a cheerleader. He attended Baylor Law School and graduated with his law degree in 1959.

He married Anita Jacobsohn in Waco on Feb. 14, 1960 (Valentine’s Day). They moved to San Antonio, Texas, where he was employed by State Farm Insurance Company. He passed the Texas Bar Exam in April 1960.

Throughout their years together, Sander’s career and many promotions while working at State Farm resulted in many moves. In 1974, they moved to State Farm headquarters in Bloomington, Ill., where they lived for 21 years. He was Agency Counsel and travelled and supported all of the agents and agency managers throughout the U.S. and Canada.

He retired after 36 years with State Farm. In 1996, Sander and Anita moved back to a warmer climate, Sun Lakes, Ariz., where they have lived for the past 30 years while enjoying the sunshine and their many new friends and activities, including bridge, tennis, and his Tuesday morning breakfast club. Sander was a Veteran. He was also a Dallas Cowboy football fan.

Sander had an inner contentment and was always supportive of his family and friends. His positive attitude and bright smile will be deeply missed by all that were lucky enough to have known him.

A private family service was observed. Donations of your choice may be made in his memory.

Carol Beede

Carol Ann Beede passed away on Jan. 31, 2026, at the age of 83. Carol was born on May 13, 1942, in New Britain, Conn., to the late Thaddeus Joseph Zielinski and Helen Ann Zielinski (née Banasiewicz).

Carol proudly served her country as a veteran of the United States Navy. Following her military service, Carol dedicated over 20 years of her career to customer service with FedEx in Fargo, N.D. She was a devoted member of Risen Savior Lutheran Church and volunteered her time at the VA to support fellow veterans.

Carol was an avid card player who loved games and puzzles of all kinds. She was always the score-keeper, which was questionable at times. She was a passionate football fan and overall sports enthusiast. She absolutely loved her day trips to watch the Diamondbacks at Chase Field and was a super fan of the Arizona Suns. She also enjoyed the camaraderie and fun of being a member of the Red Hat Society.

Carol is survived by her daughters, Stacey Lind (Brian), Michele Evert, and Shawn (Corey Seckerson); her grandchildren, Jaden Lind, Alex Gisvol (Martin), Seth Lind (Hannah), Cole Lind, Chase Evert, Skylar Seckerson, and Talon Seckerson; great-grandchildren, Oliver “Ollie” Gisvol, Sienna Gisvol, and Myla Lind; her brother, Lewis (Antonette) Hatt; very good friends Ron Beede, Sue Schonhoff, Kitchie Julien, and countless friends around the Sun Lakes community.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service to be held on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Risen Savior Lutheran Church, 23714 S. Alma School Rd, Chandler, AZ 85248, officiated by Rev. Dr. Dave Poedel. In lieu of flowers, Carol’s wishes are for donations to be made to Risen Savior Lutheran Church at the address above.

The family would like to give special thanks to Banner Ocotillo Medical Health Center ICU department for all the extraordinary care given to Carol.

Ruth Rees

Ruth Rees died peacefully in January 2026 after a brave fight related to pancreatic cancer.

Ruth began her life in Chicago, Ill., and married Robert Rees (Bob) there. Together they began careers in teaching and coaching in “Hoosiers” fashion at small country high schools in Bath and Oregon, Ill., where Ruth traded her Highland Park heels for sneakers and a whistle. Their professional path took them to Arlington Heights, where they lovingly started their family and where she graduated from Illinois State University.

Ruth and Bob pursued a second chapter of life when they moved to Chandler and then Sun Lakes. They loved the Arizona lifestyle, especially playing golf, attending ASU basketball games, and enjoying 12 out of 12 months of the great outdoors.

Ruth greatly enjoyed an active life, playing (and competing at!) golf, where she proudly won two Sun Lakes Ironwood Ladies League championships, along with her lifetime highlight breaking 90 at Torrey Pines at 80. She also enjoyed journeys to Europe and Asia in addition to frequent road trips exploring the Southwest.

Ruth worked at Caterpillar Financial and also served the community, volunteering through the Chandler Chapter of PEO, and as an active member of Mission del Sol Presbyterian Church. Many of her charitable endeavors focused on education—she chaired her PEO chapter’s Program for Continuing Education and volunteered in enhanced reading programs in a Tempe Elementary School at the age of 88.

Family was important to Ruth. She loved her family time with son Dave (Anna, grandsons Kevin and Edward), in Hong Kong, and Jim (Julie, grandsons Bobby and Jack). She spent her final year deeply committed to beating cancer in the excellent hands of Friendship Village Care Center where she received exceptional support through daily visits by her many friends and family.

A constant in Ruth’s life was the importance of personal relationships. Through her sporting, service, and spiritual life, Ruth continually engaged with a wide social network that will fondly remember her curiosity and openness to diverse people as well as her forceful personality, which was matched with a sharp wit and strong sense of humor and love of fun.

Services will be held on Saturday, Feb. 7, 10 a.m. at Mission del Sol Presbyterian Church, 1565 E. Warner Rd., Tempe, AZ 85284. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower Street, Phoenix, AZ 85014, www.hov.org.

Paul Gordon Wheeler

Paul Gordon Wheeler, age 81, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026, in Sun Lakes, Ariz. Paul was born on Oct. 23, 1944, in Portland, Iowa, to the late LV Wheeler and Lucile Wheeler (née Carle).

Paul earned his Bachelor of Science in Education from Northern Illinois University and later completed his Master’s in Science Education at Olivet Nazarene University.

For 35 years, Paul dedicated himself to the Peotone School District 207-U as a beloved teacher and coach. His passion for education and mentorship shaped generations of students, both in the classroom and on the field. Apart from his work in education, Paul was the owner and videographer of Three Wheeler Productions Videography to Remember.

Faith was central to Paul’s life. He was a devoted member and ordained Elder of Immanuel United Church of Christ, where he served faithfully for many years. In retirement, he continued his commitment to the church as an associate member and served as a chapel board trustee for Sun Lakes United Church of Christ in Sun Lakes, Ariz. He was a trustee of Elmwood Cemetery Association in Manteno, Ill.; a longtime trustee of Will Co Credit Union, now Abri; a member and treasurer of the Chicago Area Shaker Interest Group (CASIG) and a member of the Tuthill Commission for Illinois Conference of the United Church of Christ. He was also a member of the Friends of WhiteWater, OH Shaker Village and Friends of Sabbathday Lake, ME Shaker Village. He was also a member of both the Peotone and Manteno Historical Societies.

Paul will be remembered for his kindness and unwavering belief in serving others. His influence as an educator, coach, videographer, and man of faith will live on in the many lives he touched.

Paul is survived by his devoted wife of over 56 years, Nancy (née Farrell) Wheeler; his son, Bro. Jamison Paul Wheeler; sister, Beverly Goodson; brothers, Robert Wheeler (Donna), Richard Wheeler (Libby), and Norman Wheeler (Sarah). He is also survived by Judy Wheeler, his sister-in-law Kay Bertrand (Darrell) and many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, LV and Lucile Wheeler (née Carle); his brother, Alvin Charles Wheeler; his sister, Norma Jane Bell (Marvin); and his brother-in-law, Tim Goodson.

Jennifer Sue (Coplen) Maze

Jennifer Sue (Coplen) Maze, lovingly known as Jennie, passed away peacefully on Jan. 17, 2026, in Chandler, Ariz., at the age of 74.

Born on April 18, 1951, in Rochester, Ind., to Walter and Ethel Coplen, Jennie spent her early years in Argos, Ind. She graduated from Argos High School and continued her education with an Associate Degree in Accounting from Indiana University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business from Columbia University.

Jennie married her beloved husband, Terry Maze, on Aug. 31, 1967, and together they made their home in Plymouth, Ind. They shared 58 years of marriage filled with love, companionship, and adventure.

In 1981, Jennie and Terry moved their family to Colorado, where Jennie handled the accounting for their family business, Maze Builders, for over 30 years. In addition to her work with Maze Builders, she also worked as an accountant for several other professional companies throughout her career, earning the respect and trust of those she worked with.

After retiring in 2013, Jennie and Terry settled in Sun Lakes, Ariz., where Jennie continued to enjoy her passions and community life.

Jennie’s heart was especially warmed by traditions, most notably her love for Christmas, her favorite holiday. She delighted in decorating and proudly displayed her cherished collections of Hallmark ornaments and Department 56 village houses, bringing joy and sparkle to all who visited her home during the season.

Jennie’s creativity extended beyond the holidays. She sewed garments for her children and crafted beautiful quilts. Her work was shared with friends and family and through her Etsy shop, which she operated for over five years.

Tuesdays were reserved for mahjong with her close-knit circle of friends, and she treasured those gatherings filled with laughter, shared stories, and meaningful friendship.

Jennie was a member of the Hallmark Ornament Collections Club, where she connected with fellow collectors who shared her passion for ornament collecting, creativity, and celebrating the holiday season.

Jennie was the devoted wife of Terry Maze of Sun Lakes, Ariz. She is survived by her children, Bill (Nichole) Maze of Gilbert, Ariz., and Angie (Ryan) Sullivan of Carmel Valley, Calif.

She was a beloved grandmother to Kelcie (David) Van Arsdall of Yukon, Okla., Cole Maze of Phoenix, Ariz., Alyson Sullivan of Denver, Colo., and Jackson Sullivan of Carmel Valley, Calif., and a cherished great-grandmother to Delanie Van Arsdall.

She is also survived by her sister, Amy (Dan) Hurd of Warsaw, Ind.

Jennie was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Ethel Coplen, and her beloved son, Michael Maze.
A private Celebration of Life will be held on March 14, 2026, from 1 to 4 p.m. at IronOaks Country Club, 24218 S. Oakwood Blvd., Sun Lakes, AZ 85248.

Message from the Family
“Every stitch she sewed, every ornament she crafted, and every moment she shared with us was full of intention and heart. She never did anything without being all into it—and we loved that most about her.”

Josephine Ploszaj

Josephine Ann Ploszaj passed away on Jan. 11, 2026. She was born on Feb. 2, 1934, to Victor and Lucy Siatta in Calumet City, Ill. She graduated from TF North High School in 1953.

In March 1955, Josephine attended a dance at the American Legion in Calumet City, where she met Chester Ploszaj. Wasting no time, Chester asked Josephine to marry him, and she said “Yes!” on Nov. 26, 1955. Together they shared 68 years of marriage, celebrating their anniversary in 2023.

The couple lived in a cottage near Josephine’s parents until 1963, when they purchased their first home in Dalton, Ill. During this time, Josephine worked as a punch-card operator in downtown Chicago. As their family grew, they built a home in Calumet City in 1965 with the help of her father, Victor. There, they adopted two children, Maria and Michael.

In 1975, Chester and Josephine moved to Lansing, Ill. Josephine was primarily a homemaker and also worked part-time as a swim instructor and waitress. She was exceptionally creative—known for baking beautifully designed birthday and wedding cakes—but sewing was her lifelong passion. When her children were older, she worked full-time as a swim instructor at Mann Park in Hegewisch, Ill. During these years, the family made cherished memories through annual trips to Camp Marydale in Kentucky. Josephine and Chester were active members of the ICF in Calumet City and founders of the Mammas and the Pappas Mt. Carmel High School parent football club in Chicago.

In 1995, they retired to Sun Lakes, Ariz., where they spent 28 years enjoying family visits, friendships, and community life. Josephine loved hosting gatherings and was truly the “hostess with the mostest.” She joined the Red Hat Society, worked part-time at her neighborhood restaurant, and volunteered for many years at Chandler Regional Medical Center, sewing heart pillows for patients. She also sewed christening gowns for unwed mothers, Christmas stockings for newborns, and lovingly made her daughter Maria’s wedding gown.

Josephine was a devoted Catholic, faithful in prayer and the Rosary, and a lifelong advocate for the Right to Life movement. She is survived by her children, Maria (Terry) and Michael; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; beloved nieces and nephews; and many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Chester. Josephine’s generosity, faith, and love will always be remembered.

A Funeral Mass was held Jan. 26 in Chandler, Ariz., followed by burial at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona in Cave Creek, Ariz.

Condolences may be expressed at buelermortuary.com.

Charles Wolin

Charles Bernard Wolin, age 86, of Sun Lakes, Ariz., passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Jan. 4, 2026.

Born on April 21, 1939, in Chicago, Ill., Charles (Chuck) Wolin spent most of his life in Oak Park, Mich., where he and his wife, Judy, raised their family. In retirement, they moved to Sun Lakes, Ariz., where they became deeply connected to a community they cherished for nearly 25 years.

Chuck was the beloved husband of Judy Wolin, with whom he shared 65 years of marriage. He is survived by his children: Mark Wolin and his wife, JaLynn; Susan Greene and her husband, Rich; and Ken Wolin and his wife, Teri. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Alex and his fiancée, Katie; Jeremy and his fiancée, Rachel; Sarah; Ben; Kayla and her husband, Brendon; Kassie, who was taken far too soon; Aidan and his wife, Julissa; and Emmy.

Chuck is further survived by his brother-in-law, Arthur Fink; dear friends who became family, including Terry Norcop and Emily Barnes; extended family members; and many cherished friends. He also warmly embraced Becky, Ben’s girlfriend, and Gino, Sarah’s boyfriend, as part of his family.

A proud U.S. Navy veteran, Chuck served from 1958 to 1961 as an Electronics Technician, Petty Officer Second Class, aboard the USS Fort Mandan (LSD-21). His service included duty during the Cuban Missile Crisis. After leaving the Navy, he remained actively involved in veteran service organizations, serving as Commander of the Jewish War Veterans Copper State Post 619, and was honored to participate in an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C.

Chuck worked for North American Aviation and later spent more than 30 years as a pipefitter and foreman with Local 636. After retiring, he taught commercial electronics and continued to share his knowledge and experience with others.

Chuck will be remembered for his devotion to family, pride in service, strong work ethic, and generosity of spirit. He was deeply proud of his children and grandchildren and was known as a gifted storyteller who loved sharing memories from a full and interesting life. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Those wishing to honor Chuck’s memory may make a donation to the Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation.

James Ross Willsey

James Ross Willsey passed away on Dec. 31, 2025, at the age of 88. James was born on Sept. 26, 1937, in Pasco, Wash., to the late Evelyn Olbrich Willsey and Ross Oley Willsey.

James earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting from Arizona State University and built a long and successful career in banking. He was a devout parishioner of St. Stevens Catholic Church and a proud 30-year resident of IronOaks in Sun Lakes, Ariz. James was actively involved and generously gave his time by serving on the IronOaks Board of Directors.

Outside of his profession, James embraced life’s simple pleasures. He loved fly fishing and golf and was an avid reader. He will be deeply missed by all who were lucky to have known him.

James is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 65 years, Carole Willsey; his daughters, Robyn Paulyne Nicholson and Susan Amelia Hollaar; his sons, Michael Ross Willsey and Kirk James Willsey; and grandchildren, Mallory Walters, Jacob Nicholson, R.J. Hollaar, Ashleigh Buchanan, Kate Willsey, Braden Willsey, Audra Willsey, Caleb Willsey, Yvee Willsey, and Dean Willsey.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Dobson Home Hospice of the Valley, who the family would like to extend their sincerest gratitude to.

Services for James will be held at a later date.

Larry L. Guild

Larry Guild passed away at home on Dec. 25, 2025. He was born on Nov. 9, 1940, in Port Huron, Mich. He was preceded in death by our daughter, Dawn Renee, and his sister, Cindy.

Larry married Carole in 1961, 64 years of great memories and lots of vacations. We traveled to all 50 states and went on many cruises. He is also survived by our son, Larry S. Guild (Dana), several nieces and nephews, and his sister Karen Kelly.

Larry worked for Chrysler Corporation for 33 years and retired to Sun Lakes in 1999. He loved it out here. He worked for 15 years for the Cottonwood Pro Shop on the driving range, as a ranger and then as a starter. He will be missed for his quick wit and sense of humor.

 

 

Bernie Kowalski

It is with deep sorrow that we announced the passing of Bernard (Bernie) Kowalski, on Dec. 23, 2025, a 10-year resident of the Sun Lakes community. Bernie passed away in Chandler, Ariz., with his wife of 63 years by his side.

Bernie was born in Scranton, Pa., on Sept. 29, 1942, to his late parents, Stephanie and Bronislaw Kowalski. He was a graduate of the University of Scranton, where he graduated with honors with a degree in accounting. He spent 11 years in the U.S. Air Force with a tour in Vietnam. He then pursued a career with a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and retired as the Director of IT for the corps.

Bernie loved life with his magic tricks, his golf, and his many, many jokes. He was a member of St. Steven’s parish on the financial council, and a member of the Knights of Columbus for over 40 years serving in many positions and a member of the fourth degree. Most of all he loved his family. He leaves behind his high school sweetheart, wife Milly; granddaughters Ella Martinez (Cascade Locks, Ore.) Jana Campbell (Tempe, Ariz.); sisters, Rosalie Hoban (Clark Summit, Pa.); Nettie Billick (Gold Canyon, Ariz.). He was preceded in death by his son James, daughter Mary Betty, and grandson Bradley.

He was buried from St. Steven’s Church on Feb. 14, 2026, with military honors.

Climaco Quintero

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Climaco Quintero passed away peacefully on Oct. 27, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Climaco was the devoted husband of Nohra Quintero, with whom he built a life filled with love and cherished memories. He was a proud father to Diego Quintero and Juan Quintero, a loving father-in-law to Nicole Walsh and Karen, and a devoted grandfather to six grandchildren: Isabel, Elena, and Massimo; and Emma, Abby, and Olivia.

Known for his warm heart and vibrant spirit, Climaco shared a special bond with his brother Olimpo; his sisters Gloria, Amanda, and Margarita; and his sisters-in-law, Matilde Moreno and Teresa Gomez. He will be remembered for his kindness, humor, and unwavering love for family.

A passionate soccer fan, Climaco’s heart always beat a little faster for his beloved Colombian National Team. Whether playing or cheering from the touchlines, the game brought him great joy and connection to his roots.

Throughout his professional life, Climaco worked with dedication and pride as President and co-owner of Accu Grind Cutter Services in Plymouth, Conn. In retirement, he continued to bring his warmth and charisma to his second career at Big Two Toyota, where he formed many meaningful friendships.

Climaco’s legacy is one of love, hard work, generosity, and laughter. He will be deeply missed and forever loved by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Climaco’s memory to The Oliver Wolcott Tech Alumni Fund (75 Oliver St, Torrington, CT 06790), with donations directed to the Precision Machine Shop.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Jan. 10, 2026, at 3 p.m. at Chandler Presbyterian Church, 1900 S. Arrowhead Dr., Chandler, AZ 85286. We will be gathering to share our fondest memories, our stories, to laugh, to cry, and to honor Climaco.

Anne M. DeRose

Anne Marguerite Spagnuolo DeRose was born in Fowlerville, Mich., on Aug. 5, 1932, and went to be with Our Lord on Dec. 18, 2025. She was the third child of George and Ellen (Diamante) Spagnuolo. She helped their parents who owned the Spagnuolo Candy and Ice Cream company where they manufactured home-made ice cream and candy.

Anne attended Marygrove College in Detroit, Mich., and graduated in 1955 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Speech and Drama. She taught at Pershing High School in the English Department in Detroit, Mich. Anne married Paul DeRose in September of 1956 and resided in Lansing, Mich.

Anne and Paul had seven children. Anne returned to teaching and was employed by the Lansing School District. In 1976, still raising children, she completed her Master of Arts degree from Michigan State University.

After the children graduated from college, Paul and Anne journeyed to Arizona where they settled in Sun Lakes. They immediately got involved with the community and parish.

Anne served on the boards for the Sun Lakes Performing Arts Organization (Arizona) and the Chandler Center for the Arts Cultural Foundation.

As a parishioner of St. Steven’s Parish in Sun Lakes, Anne served as Respect Life Coordinator and on the Bereavement Ministry. She also served as President of the Ladies Guild.

Anne’s loves were God, family, friends, the Catholic Faith, the Arts, education/museums, travel, and Bridge/cards.

Preceded in death by her husband, Paul; her parents; two of her sisters: Mary Moody and Dorothy (Peter) Capurro; and brother Frank (Susan) Spagnuolo. She is survived by her children: Jacqueline DeRose, Julie DeRose, Joseph (Julie L) DeRose, Jeanne (James) Peters, Jane (Brian) Bamman, James (Véronik) DeRose, and Joan (Robert) McKinley; three grandchildren: Dominick Peters, Benjamin (Logen) Peters, and Elaina DeRose; sister and brother-in-law: Lenore (Pete) Coscarelli; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at St. Steven’s Catholic Church in Sun Lakes on Jan. 9, 2026. The live stream may be viewed through saintstevensparish.org. Anne will be flown back to Michigan for entombment with her husband. A funeral service in Michigan will be held at St. Gerard Parish on Jan. 22, 2026. The live stream may be viewed through stgerard.org.

In lieu of flowers, consider making a donation: Pro-Life Arizona (formerly called Life Choices Women’s Clinics) giving.myamplify.io//app/giving/lifechoices or Maggie’s Place maggiesplace.org/donation.

We thank God for the gift of Anne Marguerite Spagnuolo DeRose.

Raymond Dean Snell

Raymond Dean Snell, lovingly known as “Ray” or “Gramps,” passed away on Dec. 15, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, and unforgettable stories. He was born on Jan. 7, 1935, in Burr Oak, Iowa, to Roy and Dorothy Snell.

Ray lived life with a sense of adventure and humor that drew people to him. A lifelong jokester, he was quick with a smile or a playful tease. He loved to travel and embraced every opportunity to see new places, always returning home with tales to tell and memories to share.

Ray was a proud veteran during the Korean Conflict who served his country with honor, a chapter of his life he carried with quiet pride and deep respect.

Ray and Bev married in 1956 shortly after they were married Ray got a job at Rockwell Collins. They moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where they purchased a newly built home in Cedar Hills. They lived in that home raising their four children until Bev passed away in 2007. Ray lived there a few more years after Bev’s death but it was too quiet and empty without Bev. He made the hard decision to sell their home and move to Mesa, Ariz., to be with his kids and grandkids. Ray retired from Rockwell Collins in 1990, they purchased a Park Model in the Good Life Resort in Mesa, Ariz., where they had many winters of fun with the great friends they made in the Resort. He worked for the City of Cedar Rapids in the summers after retiring from Collins for about 10 years maintaining the gardens downtown.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 50 years, Beverly Snell; his son, Gary Snell (Valerie); and his daughter-in-law, Nanette Snell (Dan).

Ray is survived by his children: daughter Kim Kalina (Loren) of Sun Lakes, Ariz; son Dan Snell of Phoenix, Ariz.; daughter Beth Wyldes (Howard) of Lost Nation, Iowa, and daughter-in-law Valerie Snell of Chandler, Ariz. He was a devoted grandfather to Brett Kalina (Jessica), of Phoenix, Ariz., Shawntel Ojeda (Ernesto) of Tempe, Ariz., Krista Leuning (Tyler) of Chandler, Ariz., Taya Dragoon (Adam) of Virginia Beach, Va., April Chakaravarty (Chakki) of Buckeye, Ariz., Travis Vaske (Samantha) of Donahue, Iowa, and Chase Towne (Morgan) of Grand Mound, Iowa. He also cherished his step-grandchildren: Junior Williamson (Patricia), Mallory Williamson, and Justin Williamson, all of the Phoenix, Ariz., area. Also survived by his siblings Richard Snell of (Sue) of N Crystal, Minn.; Roger Snell (Tana) of Minnetonka, Minn., Marjorie Kjosa (Ordell) of Castalia, Iowa, and Ronald Snell (Helen) of Decorah, Iowa.

Ray was blessed with 18 great-grandchildren and great-step-grandchildren, each of whom brought him immense joy and pride.

Above all, Ray will be remembered for his big heart, his playful spirit, and the way he made everyone feel welcome and loved. His laughter will echo in the memories of those who knew him, and his stories will be told for years to come.

Services to be determined.

Donald L. Saunders

Donald L. Saunders, 77, passed away peacefully on Nov. 8, 2025, at his home in Sun Lakes, Ariz. Born in Pittsburgh, Pa., Don’s life took him to many places—including Virginia, New Jersey, and Arizona—each becoming part of the story he built with quiet strength and steady devotion to his family and his church.

Don lived his life anchored by faith and love. He proudly served in the United States Air Force for four years, during which he was stationed on the border between Vietnam and Thailand. His service reflected the same sense of duty, humility, and dedication that he carried throughout his life.

After his military service, Donald built a career as an industrial hygienist, working diligently to ensure safe and healthy environments for others. He cherished simple pleasures—his family and his dogs. He found joy in working in the yard and in golfing, where he loved the peace and rhythm of the outdoors.

Don is preceded in death by his son Adam, his twin brother, Ronald, and his parents, Glen and Zura Belle Parks Saunders. He is survived by his loving wife, Rose, his son, Joshua, his daughter-in-law, Katie, and his grandson, Nolan, who brought immeasurable joy to his later years. He also loved cheering for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Those who knew Don will remember him as a man of quiet kindness, steady faith, and deep affection for those he loved. They will also remember the humorous t-shirts he wore whenever he could.

His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew him.