In Passing – April 2026

Nancy Borden

Nancy Ladd Borden, née Chandler, passed away peacefully on Jan. 27, 2026, at Towers Nursing Home in Smithville, Texas, surrounded by her loving family. She was 88 years old.

Nancy was born on Dec. 31, 1937, in Omaha, Neb., to Dwight Lamont Chandler and Frances Mae Chandler, née Smith. She grew up with a strong spirit and resilience that would guide her throughout her life.

She is survived by her daughter, Deborah Ann Brown of Manor, Texas; her daughter, Cynthia Lee Aarvig and her husband, Larry Fred Hill, of Austin, Texas; five grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. Her family was the center of her world, and she treasured each of them deeply.

Nancy was profoundly grateful for 45 years of sobriety, a gift she credited to the support and fellowship she found in Alcoholics Anonymous. Her journey was one of courage, faith, and perseverance, and she offered encouragement and understanding to many along the way.

She also shared her life with many beloved pets over the years, each one dearly cherished. She often spoke with comfort and hope about being reunited with them one day at the Rainbow Bridge.

Her family extends their deepest thanks and heartfelt affection to the staff and caregivers at Towers Nursing Home in Smithville, who became her second family and cared for her with compassion and kindness in her final years.

Nancy will be remembered for her strength, gratitude, and enduring love for her family. She will be deeply missed.

Eugene M. “Nick” Nicholas

Eugene M. “Nick” Nicholas was born Nov. 12, 1937, to Robert and Mary Nicholas in Aberdeen, Wash. He passed away on Feb. 25, 2026, in Sun Lakes, Ariz. After graduating from Aberdeen High School, Nick attended Grays Harbor Junior College and then the University of Washington graduating with a B.A. in History. During his college days, Nick also served in the U.S. Army National Guard from 1959 to 1964. He went on to receive his master’s in Education Administration from Seattle University.

Nick’s education career began in 1961 in the Seattle Public Schools as a teacher and in 1969 as an assistant principal. After 15 years in the Seattle School District, Nick was appointed principal of Timberline High School in the North Thurston School District in Lacey, Wash., where he retired 21 years later. After retirement, he went on to provide consulting services to IBM and the International Air Academy.

Nick belonged to various education associations including the Association of Washington School Principals where he served as Chair of the Professional Growth Committee.

He was a member of the Rotary Club in both Lacey, Wash., and in Sun Lakes, Ariz., where he served as President in 2012. He was a member of the Sun Lakes United Methodist Church where he served on the staff parish and education committees.

Nick loved watching and playing all sports. He played basketball and baseball and semi–pro baseball in high school. He also spent time as a sports writer for the Aberdeen Daily World. He later enjoyed racket ball and golf.

He is survived by his wife, Carol, sons Michael and John (Trisha), grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

A memorial will be held on April 11, 2026, at 11 a.m., at Sun Lakes United Methodist Church, 9248 East Riggs Rd, Sun Lakes, AZ, with reception to follow.

Sheila Ann Marie Beranek Bross

Sheila Ann Marie Beranek Bross, 78, of Sun Lakes, Ariz., passed peacefully on Feb. 28, 2026, of complications due to Parkinson’s disease. Her husband and three sons were by her side.

Sheila was a daughter, sister, wife, mother, and friend to many, a live wire and inspiration to all who knew her. She was born in La Crosse, Wis., on Sept. 25, 1947, to Theodore (Ted) and Alberta (Bert) Beranek, who inspired her and her three siblings with a life of adventure, free spirit, family, and friendship. From gatherings at the family cottage in Stoddard to a lifetime of travel and a rewarding career in healthcare, Sheila lived as though every day offered something exciting.

Sheila attended Catholic-based Aquinas High School, finding faith, value, and lifelong friendships. She attended the St. Francis School of Nursing in La Crosse, before beginning her career at the Veterans Administration in Milwaukee, and ultimately West Allis Memorial Hospital. She finished her career in Arizona working in clinics throughout Chandler.

Sheila met the love of her life, Gary, in 1968, at the wedding of Gary’s brother, Dean (Sandra). Excited to start their new lives together, the two were married in 1968 in Milwaukee. Sheila and Gary were married for more than 57 years; they had three sons—Chris, Jon, and Jeff—and shared a life of great devotion and adventure.

Sheila was bold, full of light and laughs, as wonderful and kind as she was wacky and whimsical. She was well-known for her storytelling and witticisms, her legendary cooking skills and dinner parties, her love of dogs, music, dancing, and travel. She was an active member of the community, volunteering her time to various clubs and events, and lived a life of service, most recently providing respite care and comfort to the elderly.

Sheila is survived by her husband, Gary Bross; sons Chris (Deneene Bell) Bross, Jon (Diane) Bross, and Jeff Bross; grandchildren Wilder and Sage (California), Madelyn and Sylvia (Colorado); siblings Diane (Bob) Marcou of La Crosse, and Bob (Ann) Beranek of Sun Prairie, Wis.; nephews and nieces David (Susan), Anne (Jim), Paul (Kathy), Mike (Maura), Dan (Jennifer), Pete (Darby), Susanne (Mike), Jill (Wayde), Jay (Jessica), and many cousins.

She was preceded in death by parents Ted Beranek and Alberta Kotnour Beranek, and brother David (Bobbi) Beranek. 

Donations can be made to the Barrow Neurological Foundation/Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center.

Robert (Bob) Carlson

With a booming voice, a ready story, and a smile that could fill a room, Robert “Bob” Bennett Carlson lived a life that was anything but ordinary. Born in 1938 in Oakland, Neb., Bob passed away February 2026, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, loyalty, and love.

Bob proudly served his country in the United States Navy before settling in Kirkland, Wash., where he built a full and vibrant life. He married his first wife, Joan Furlong, the mother of his three children: Joni Buckner (David Buckner), Kelly Carlson (LaVonne Carlson), and Shelley Carlson (Tom Richman). His pride in his family was steady and lifelong.

In 1968, Bob married the love of his life, Sharon Constable. Together they built a marriage full of adventure, friendship, and fun. Sharon remained his greatest love until her passing in 2008.

Bob worked for 30 years at the Safeway Ice Cream Plant, a career that suited him well—steady, hardworking, and always surrounded by good people (and good dessert). After retirement, Bob and Sharon relocated to Sun Lakes, where Bob fully embraced what many would call his true calling: golf, friendship, and community.

A passionate golfer, Bob organized the legendary “SOB” golf tournaments while living in Washington and later found his tribe in Sun Lakes’ golf scene, especially among his beloved “Dirty Dozen.” Fairways were walked, stories were told, and friendships were cemented under the Arizona sun.

Bob and Sharon began cruising in the 1980s, kicking off what became 57+ cruises with family and friends. The open sea was one of his happy places—second only perhaps to a golf course or a patio gathering.

He was known for sharing bourbon and cigars with the guys, hugs and kisses with the ladies, and laughter with absolutely everyone. In the Palo Verde community, Bob was a huge presence—the kind of man you heard before you saw, and were glad you did. His warmth, humor, and unmistakable voice made him unforgettable.

Bob lived fully, loved deeply, and left a mark wherever he went. He will be greatly missed, fondly remembered, and undoubtedly toasted often.

Cheers to you, Bob.

Robert Charles Carlson

Robert “Bob” Charles Carlson, 89, passed away peacefully in Chandler, Ariz., on Feb. 21. Born in Ossining, N.Y., in 1936 to Charles and Elsie Carlson, Bob graduated from Ossining High School in 1954 before earning his degree in Economics from Union College in 1958, where he was a proud member of the football team and Phi Delta fraternity. Bob served his country in the U.S. Army from 1958 to 1961, attending Officer Candidate School at Fort Sill, Okla., and achieving the rank of second lieutenant in the artillery.

Bob married Anne Prewitt of Briarcliff, N.Y., in 1962, beginning a devoted partnership that would span more than six decades. Together they made their home in Briarcliff and Chappaqua, N.Y., where they raised their family and became deeply rooted in the community. Bob built a successful career as an executive with New York Telephone and AT&T from 1961 until 1987, when he transitioned to a second career in real estate, serving clients primarily in Chappaqua, N.Y., until his retirement in 2011. In later years, Bob and Anne enjoyed their time in Chatham, Mass., and Sun Lakes, Ariz.

A man of unwavering faith and service, Bob served as a trustee and elder at the Presbyterian Church in Mt. Kisco, N.Y., and as president of its Fellowship Hall Affordable Housing apartments for seniors. In Chatham, Mass., he served as a deacon at the First Congregational Church. His commitment to others extended well beyond the church: he coached youth baseball and football, served as an Alumni Class Agent for Union College, was an active member of the American Legion, and volunteered as a caretaker at Liberty Commons Nursing Home in Chatham, Mass., and Hospice of the Valley in Chandler, Ariz. His enthusiasm for connecting with others showed in countless ways—through frequent phone calls and letters to family and friends, his lifelong passion as a football and baseball fan, and his time singing in a two-man band called “Late Life Crisis.” Bob is survived by his beloved wife Anne; his children Suzanne, Betsy, David (Kim); and his six cherished grandchildren, Emily (Jack), Maddy, Jackson, Willem, Owen, and Trevor. He will be remembered for his vibrant spirit, positivity, sense of humor, and enduring generosity.

Ann Elizabeth Crabtree

Ann Elizabeth Crabtree, age 86, passed away peacefully on Feb. 23, 2026, surrounded by her loving family in Sun Lakes, Ariz.

Ann was born on Aug. 25, 1939, in Hendon, London, England. During the German Blitz of World War II, she and her mother were relocated to Derby, England, where she grew up and later began her lifelong appreciation for art and dance. Ann worked for Royal Crown Derby, where she began as a guilder before becoming an instructor in the art of gilding. Among her many accomplishments, she proudly served as the primary guilder on a china set commissioned for a prince.

On Feb. 20, 1960, Ann married the love of her life, Ron, and together they recently celebrated 66 years of marriage—a true testament to their devotion and enduring partnership. Ann In 1967, Ann and Ron emigrated to California from the UK with their three young children, beginning a new chapter filled with courage, opportunity, and family. The couple eventually retired to Sun Lakes, Ariz., in 1998, where they became deeply involved in their community.

Ann’s greatest joy was in nurturing others. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who poured her creativity and warmth into every aspect of her life. While raising her family, she led Girl Scout troops and cheered on the sidelines as a proud soccer mom. Later, she returned to school to earn her degree in early childhood development and spent 20 years as a beloved preschool teacher, shaping the hearts and minds of countless children.

Outside the classroom, Ann’s artistic spirit continued to shine through her watercolor paintings and love of reading. For 22 years, she led with laughter and grace as a Red Hat Queen, where she was admired for her creativity, compassion, and leadership.

Ann will be remembered for her kindness, elegance, humor, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends. She was preceded in death by her son, Gary, and is survived by her husband, Ron; her children, Steven and Jane; grandchildren Christopher, Ashley, Westley, and Jason; and great-grandchildren Rachel, Brantley, Emma, and Charlie.

Her love, wisdom, and joyful spirit will live on through all who were blessed to know her.

JoAnn Anita Flachsmann

JoAnn Anita Flachsmann passed away on March 2, 2026, at the age of 75. JoAnn was born on Friday, Oct. 13, 1950, in Fairmont, Minn., to the late Fred and Delores Dorendorf.

JoAnn graduated from Fairmont High School in 1968. JoAnn went on to work for Fairmont High School as a secretary. She later moved to Denver, Colo.,in 1975. She began her new career working for Norelco as an office manager. She later worked for a shoe buyer and was a shoe runway model, which took her all over the world for shoe shows.

JoAnn enjoyed many hobbies such as: gardening, Zumba, walking, doing puzzles, and especially raising her greyhounds. JoAnn volunteered to create the website for the Cottonwood Tennis Club, which she managed for 10 years. She also loved her home and living in Arizona for the past 23 years.

JoAnn is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 32 years, Armin Flachsmann; her in laws, Horst and Dorothea Flachsmann; two sisters, Ginny Larson and Susan Knight; two stepchildren, Christopher and Elisa Flachsmann; her brother in law, Ronnie Sandersfeld; and many nieces and nephews in Minnesota and Arizona.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Don Hicks

Don Howard Hicks of Sun Lakes, Ariz., passed away on Feb. 23, 2026, at the amazing age of 90.

Don spent his childhood between Amarillo, Texas, and the Long Beach area of Southern California. After high school, Don enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and was eager to be part of the Korean War, which ended before he was deployed. Don’s time in the Marines solidified his lifelong focus of hard work and the accomplishment of a task at hand.

Don married his first wife Patty in 1959 and immediately became a father figure to Patty’s two daughters Laurie Fowler and Robbin Driscoll. Don and Patty had two children, Don and Cristy, in the early 1960s and their household was busy with four children and many pets. Weekends were spent on activities such as motorcycle riding, boating, off-roading, and traveling.

Don worked for many years in California and Saudi Arabia for a concrete pipe manufacturing company where he met both of his wives. Don had many professional accomplishments during his career including the design and development of concrete pipes used to cool the San Onofre Nuclear Power Plant in San Clemente, Calif., along with helping the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia develop their infrastructure for water and industrial projects.

Don traveled extensively while working in Saudi Arabia and visited locations that most can only dream of including India, Spain, Italy, Greece, and the Maldives.

Don was able to enjoy an active retirement of sunshine, golf, and outdoor activities in Sun Lakes. Don continued his love of projects by donating his time and experience to the Sun Lakes community as a Board member from 2012 through 2022. During Don’s tenure, he assisted with overseeing the construction of a new Administration Building and a Fitness Center for the community.

Don enjoyed doing and moving, whether it was a project around the house, helping a friend, walking his dog Buffy, or going to the gym. Don was an avid reader and kept up on current events.

Don is survived by Jo Ann, his loving wife of over 42 years, his daughters Robbin (Dale) Driscoll, Cristy (Brian) Koster, his son Don (Pam) Hicks, nine grandchildren (Christopher, Matthew, Lauren, Madeleine, Allison, Elliot, Kaylani, Samuel, and Michi) and six great-grandchildren (Audrey, Oliver, Skye, Mason, Jameson, and Austin).

Don is predeceased by his parents Mara Baldwin and Howard Hicks, his sister Joan Risner, his brother Norman Hicks, his first wife Patty, his daughter Laurie (Russ) Fowler, and his stepson Kenneth (Paula) Neyses.

A Celebration of Life will be forthcoming.

Ann Seibert Kisner

Ann Seibert Kisner, 91, passed away on Feb. 23, 2026. Born in Dillsburg, Pa., in 1934, Ann graduated from Drexel University, where she met her husband, the late Richard “Dick” Kisner. They shared a lifetime of devotion, and Ann served as his steadfast caregiver during his 20-year battle with Parkinson’s.

A talented entrepreneur, Ann ran a successful interior design business for over 30 years, first in the Philadelphia suburbs and later in Arizona. She was known for her elegance, her sharp wit, and the warmth she extended to her children’s many friends. In her 20 years at Sun Lakes, Ariz., she enjoyed the Southwest sun, poolside days, and the “Cheers” social group.

She is survived by her children Susan Schierbrock (William) and Fred Kisner (Kim) and grandchildren Ali, Aaron, Shelby, and Ryan. She will be laid to rest alongside her husband at Valley of the Sun Cemetery in Chandler in a private family service.

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.