In Passing – November 2026

Bernadette (“Bernie”) Isabel Tighe

Bernadette (“Bernie”) Isabel Tighe, 82, died on Sept. 16, 2026. Born May 15, 1944, in Denver, Colo., Bernie lived a life marked by deep devotion to family and faith. After earning a B.A. in Sociology from Loretto Heights College, she married the love of her life, Joseph (“Joe”) Tighe, and settled in Colorado Springs, raising four children. After some harsh winters, the couple decided to retire to Sun Lakes, Ariz.

She was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend. Bernie is survived by her husband of 59 years, Joe Tighe; daughters Sharon Hinsey (Jim Hinsey), Beth Reed (Chris Reed), and Katie Bell (Michael Bell); son Jim Tighe (Brooke Tighe); and 10 grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, John S. Murray and Isabel Murray, and her sisters, Ann Plank, Virginia Sullivan, and Marjorie Noonen. Bernie’s friends and family meant the world to her, including her beloved nieces and nephews.

Her Catholic faith and service shaped much of her life. Bernie was involved with St. Steven’s Catholic Church, the Bright Lights Trivia Team, the Colorado Springs Song Spinners, and the Corpus Christi Catholic Church Women’s Circle. She also served as a religious education teacher and volunteered with Meals on Wheels, offering her time in ways that reflected a generous heart.

Bernie embraced Sun Lakes’ active social life. Tennis was a particular favorite, and she loved being part of the Cottonwood Tennis Club and the friendships that came with it. She also enjoyed playing Bridge, line dancing, Syllacrostic word puzzles, square dancing, and piano.

Nothing brought out Bernie’s joy like a holiday—her couple’s Halloween costumes were legendary, as were the annual Thanksgiving Gobble Games, Christmas mornings, Easter egg hunts, and St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

She was the ultimate Energizer Bunny. Bernie peeled potatoes at 4 a.m. and would enjoy playing board games and laughing with friends until late into the night. She lined up multiple activities seven days a week in addition to playing tennis several hours a day in the Arizona heat.

Bernie will be remembered for her optimism and putting a smile on everyone’s face, welcoming everyone as family, and the positive impact she had on her community.

A service celebrating Bernie’s life will be planned for a later date.

Paul M. Beeks

Paul M. Beeks, of Sun Lakes, Ariz., passed away peacefully on Sept. 10, 2026, at the age of 87. He was born on July 27, 1939, in Bismarck, N.D., to Clifford H. Beeks and Irene (Leupp) Beeks.

Paul graduated from Washburn High School in Washburn, N.D., in 1957, and earned his Juris Doctor degree from the University of North Dakota in 1963. On July 29, 1962, he married Janet Hegreberg in Minot, N.D., beginning a marriage of more than 64 years.

Paul practiced law for 40 years in Twin Falls, Idaho, primarily alongside his longtime partner and friend, Leon Smith. He was dedicated to his profession, his clients, and his community.

Faith and service were central to Paul’s life. A lifelong member and active participant in the Lutheran Church, he generously supported his church and community. He was also active in the Optimist Club, where he enjoyed supporting young people and serving others.

Paul had a lifelong love of golf. In retirement, he played three to four times a week and continued enjoying the game with friends and family until his final days. He also loved aviation and was a pilot into his eighties. Sports, including softball, remained important to him, and he especially enjoyed playing alongside his sons, Dan and David, and his nephew Roger.

After retiring, Paul and Janet moved to Sun Lakes, Ariz., where he enjoyed being closer to family. He especially treasured watching his grandchildren grow and sharing in their lives and accomplishments.

Paul is survived by his beloved wife, Janet; his son Daniel and his wife, Terri; his son David and his wife, Kris; his grandchildren, Matthew and his fiancé, Kathleen; Elizabeth and her significant other, Evan; Andrew; and Ava; his brother Donald and many, many other relatives, friends, and loved ones.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford H. and Irene Beeks; his sisters, Eileen and Claudine; and his brothers, William and Clifford Jr.

Paul will be remembered for his strong faith, devotion to family, commitment to service, and love of golf, aviation, and sports. Above all, he was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend who valued his relationships and believed in giving back to others.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. at Esperanza Lutheran Church in Phoenix, Ariz., on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Paul’s life and share their memories.

In lieu of flowers, gifts in Paul’s memory to St. Mary’s Food Bank and The Salvation Army are appreciated.

Paul Charles Bopko

With deep love and gratitude for his life, the family of Paul Charles Bopko announces his passing on June 18, 2026, at the age of 89. Born in New York City on March 16, 1937, to Stephen and Raffaella Bopko, Paul grew up with strong family values, a sharp mind, and a drive to serve others. He also had two brothers, Stephen and Raymond, who preceded him in death.

Paul attended New York City Catholic Schools and later graduated from Fordham University with a degree in Marketing. While at Fordham, he ran track—a reflection of his determination and competitive spirit. He went on to serve his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1959 to 1962, an experience that shaped his character and remained a point of pride throughout his life.

His career in trucking and logistics took him across the country and connected him with people from all walks of life. Whether at Roadway Express or Mach 1 Air (Global) Services, Paul was known for his professionalism, reliability, and steady leadership.

Paul’s joys were timeless: the smooth voice of Frank Sinatra, the charm of Elvis and Doris Day, the power of Pavarotti, a good Italian meal, and a sunny day on the golf course. He cherished the simple pleasures and shared them generously with those he loved.

He leaves behind his devoted wife, Joanna; his sons Christopher and Jeffrey; grandsons Joshua and Jacob; and great–grandchildren June and Jack. He is reunited with his son Matthew, who preceded him in death.

A memorial service is not scheduled at this time, but Paul’s family invites all who knew him to hold his memory close and celebrate a life well lived.

Carol DeLong

Carol DeLong went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Sept. 11, 2026. She had lived in Sun Lakes since 2008 along with her husband Bob who passed away 18 months ago. Her three sisters also live in Sun Lakes.

Carol was loved and admired by many who appreciated her love of the Lord, and her willingness to pitch in and help whenever she could.

She and her husband Bob loved to travel the world. One of their goals was to visit every Presidential Library. While living in California they participated in numerous Work and Witness Mission Trips with their church to countries like Russia, several Eastern Europe countries, China, as well as Thailand.

Driving trips were a special treat for them and it is estimated they might have driven across the United States as many as 50 times.

Carol is survived by her children, Kathy Brown (Dave), Vicki Robertson (Kathy lives in Kentucky, Vicki lives in Virginia), Leslie Speaks, David (Cheryl) DeLong, who both live in California.

She is also survived by her sisters: Joanne Jager, Loretta Crawford, and Sandy Ross.

She loved her grandchildren: TJ, Nadin, Colleen, Sam, and Emily, plus great-grandchildren Aaron, Elodie, Hannah, and Owen.

Carol brought home a huge collection of curios from across the United States and around the world. She especially enjoyed the Friday Game Night with her sisters and nieces playing Rummikub.

A Celebration of Life honored and remembered Carol at the Sun Lakes Chapel on Oct. 3, 2026.

Theresa Leona Fullerton

Theresa Leona Kriskovich was born in Anaconda, Mont., on July 4, 1935. The daughter of the late Annie (Sokolich) and Peter Kriskovich. She attended St. Peter’s grade school and Anaconda High School in 1953. She attended Carroll College in Helena, Mont., 1953-1955. She married Gerry H. Fullerton on Oct. 3, 1959, in St. Peter’s Church in Anaconda, Mont. On Oct. 3, 2019, they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.

Theresa and her husband had two sons, Gerry David and Robert Timothy Fullerton, both residing in Phoenix, Ariz. She and her husband moved to Helena, Mont., from Anaconda, Mont., in 1963. Then moved to Cheyenne, Wyo., in 1971 and then moved to Riverton, Wyo., in 1974. Since 1992 she and her husband were snowbirds to Phoenix, Ariz. (Nov-April) until 1997. In October 1997 they moved to Sun Lakes. She was employed by the Anaconda Company in Anaconda, Mont., 1955-1959, and School District #25 Riverton, Wyo. (Jackson Elementary School), 1974-1992. She is survived by her son Gerry David and his wife Aileen, and son Robert and his wife Sandra. Grandchildren: Timothy, Katherine, Elizabeth, Kyle and Ryan Fullerton. Nieces and Nephews: Marty (Madilon) John (Nellie), Tom (Kathy) Beatty, Debbie Brugman, Jenny Ann McNeil. Great niece Johnna Beatty Henderson and husband Robert. Numerous great nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband Gerry H. Fullerton (2020), her parents Peter (1972) and Annie (1980) Kriskovich, four sisters Alice (1931), Ann (1942) Kriskovich, Mary Beatty (1997), and Lucille Villeneuve (2026). One brother John Michael (1931). Brothers–in–law John Beatty (1975), William Villeneuve (2012), father–in–law Howlett Fullerton (1986), nephew Bill Villeneuve Jr. (2026), and grandchild Patrick Fullerton (2024).

Theresa enjoyed cooking, embroidery, dancing, golfing, and being with family. Her favorite saying: “I came into this world with a bang and I’m very independent because I was born on the 4th of July.”

A Funeral Mass was held in Theresa’s honor at St. Steven’s Catholic Church on Oct. 1, 2026.

Glenn Davis Godwin

On Sept. 26 we lost a truly extraordinary man—a giant among men, and the head of our family. Our beloved father and grandfather, Glenn Davis Godwin, passed away peacefully with his immediate family at his side.

There are no words big enough to express how deeply he will be missed or how immense the wound is that his passing leaves in our hearts. He was a giant teddy bear of a man, with the biggest smile, the warmest hugs, and even though he was a man of few words, the words he spoke were always true. He loved his wife Theresa (Gomez) faithfully for more than 68 years, and together they built a lifetime of memories, love, and family. He was a devoted husband, father of five, grandfather of ten, great-grandfather of eight, uncle, brother, and friend.

A resident of the Sun Lakes Palo Verde community for 33 years, Glenn was an avid tennis player and golfer, a fan of Cal Berkeley Football (Go Bears, beat Stanford!), as well as Eucharistic minister at St. Steven’s Catholic Church.

Though our hearts are broken, we are incredibly grateful for the privilege of loving him and being loved by him. Our family asks for your prayers, love, and support as we navigate this loss. Glenn’s funeral services will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Lumberton, New Mexico, and he will be buried at the Gomez Family Cemetery in Dulce, New Mexico. In lieu of flowers or cards, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Glenn’s memory to St. Francis Catholic Church, 21 CR-356, Lumberton, NM 87528.

Daniel G. King

With heavy hearts, the family of Daniel G. King announces his sudden and unexpected passing on Sept. 11, 2026. Dan, of Chandler, Ariz., formerly of Santa Rosa, Calif., suffered a fall and passed away from his injuries a few hours later. During that time, he was able to clearly express his wishes regarding his medical care, including his decision not to undergo surgery.

Dan was born in San Francisco on April 12, 1946, and raised in Sacramento. He was a longtime resident of Santa Rosa before moving to Chandler, Ariz., where he and his wife, Joy, have lived for the past 14 years.

Dan served in the United States Army during the 1960s and was stationed in Germany. After his military service, he built a long career as a Certified Public Accountant. He was an active member of Rotary and the CPA Society. His faith and church communities were important to him, including Koloa, Kauai Church of Christ; Sun Lakes United Church of Christ; and Chandler United Methodist Church.

Dan had a witty sense of humor and enjoyed traveling to Hawaii, attending the Hale Theatre, and listening to music. He enjoyed Sudoku and was a master at jigsaw puzzles. He enjoyed time with his grandchildren and appreciated a nice glass of Chardonnay.

Dan is survived by his wife of 49 years, Joy; daughters, Jennifer and Lori; and grandchildren, Maddie, Nick, and Allie. He was preceded in death by his parents and his daughter, Kathy.

Never loud or boisterous, but always present and someone who could be counted on through life’s valleys and mountaintops, he was known to those who loved him as husband, dad, and friend.

No formal services are planned at this time. A small family gathering was held in October to celebrate Dan’s life.

In Memory of Dan

For those who would like to make a donation in Dan’s memory, the family has selected an organization in Kauai, a place that held a special place in Dan’s life.

Hawai’i Community Foundation helps the community recover from recent weather events and supports the Hawai’i community as a whole. Give – HCF Catalyst Fund – Hawaii Community Foundation (hawaiicommunityfoundation.org/give/hcf-catalyst-fund) or 4268 Rice Street, Suite K, Lihu‘e, HI 96766 (Catalyst Fund in Memory of Dan King).

Steve Moen

Steven (Steve) Moen was born Christmas Day 1944 in Pocatello, Idaho, to Stan and Margaret Moen. Steve passed away peacefully on Sept. 19, 2026, at Hospice of the Valley in Chandler, Arizona, after developing a serious blood infection that his weakened body could no longer fight.

As a young child he lived in Idaho, Utah, and Spokane, Washington, where he spent most of his later elementary and high school years. Steve loved sports and played varsity basketball and baseball at Lewis and Clark High School. Upon graduation, Steve attended the University of Idaho where he pledged Phi Gamma Delta and played basketball for one year and four years of baseball. He and his 1966 baseball team were inducted into the University of Idaho Hall of Fame in 2012.

It was also at Idaho that Steve met Gail Leichner, whom he married in 1968. Steve had more than his share of experiences and fun in college, including partial ownership of an old Divco milk truck, which provided the transportation for their first date. Steve and Gail celebrated their 58th anniversary this past July.

Steve graduated with a B.S. in Biological Sciences and later earned a Master’s Degree in Exercise Physiology. After graduation, Steve taught at Chugiak High School in Sitka, Alaska. He then moved to Vancouver, Washington, where he taught and coached at Lewis Junior High, Hudson Bay High School, and Mountain View High School. During his 32 years teaching in the Vancouver area, he was a successful head basketball coach and assistant football coach and impacted the lives of many students and athletes with his structure, education, and humor. His “moenisms” have remained in many of their lives to this day.

Steve and Gail moved to Sun Lakes, Arizona, in 2001 upon her teaching retirement where they have enjoyed 25 wonderful years. Steve did not sit still and filled his life with slow pitch softball, golf, tennis, swimming, hiking, cards, and other activities with wonderful friends from all over the United States and Canada. Steve had many names during his life—Son, Husband, Father, Gramps, Uncle, Big Red, Stovepipe, Gravel, Mo, Ref, Coach, and Friend. Everyone fit into one or more of those categories.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Susan Allen, his brother Scot Moen, and his firstborn son T.J. Steve is survived by his wife, Gail, his son Deke Moen (wife Amanda Moen), and grandson, Jake Moen.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Vancouver, Washington, in 2027 where Steve will be interred next to his son T.J. Donations may be made to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower St., Phoenix, AZ 85014 or to OHSU Doernbecher Foundation, PO Box 29017, Portland, OR 97296, where T.J. received such wonderful medical care.