In Passing

Edward Lyle Acton

Edward Lyle Acton, age 91, of Sun Lakes, Ariz. (formerly from Rochester Hills, Mich., and Manistee, Mich.), passed away on Saturday, March 6, 2021, at Dobson Home-Hospice of the Valley, Chandler, Ariz., with his family by his side.

Edward was born on April 9, 1929, in Hamtramck, Mich., to Pearl (Osborne) and William Perry Acton. Edward graduated from Log Cabin High School, Troy, Mich., in 1949, then enlisted in the Army, where he was recruited to play football and baseball. He was a talented athlete and eventually played semi-pro football for the Dearborn All Stars.

In 1954 he met the love of his life, Margaret (Peggy) Shultz. They married on Jan. 28, 1956 (and celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary this year). They began their married life in Clawson, Mich., then eventually moved to Rochester Hills, where they raised their four children: Suzanne, Michael, Timothy, and Kimberly. Since then, Ed and Peggy have lived in Northern Michigan, Arizona, and Utah. They both loved to travel, ride bikes, and play tennis and golf together.

Ed’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to the formation of Acton Trucking, T.K.M.S. Trucking, and Quality Aggregates, where he built, along with his sons Mike and Tim, very successful gravel hauling and mining businesses.

In his retirement life, he was all about his family. He attended many of his 10 grandchildren’s sporting events, and later on, his great-grandson and great-granddaughter’s musicals and dance performances. He taught all 10 of his grandchildren how to drive cars. He and Peggy together loved taking their grandchildren water skiing and tubing on their boat, canoeing, biking, and golfing.

One of his favorite places to be was on the golf course, and in his later years, he could be found golfing with his friends and with his wife in the couple’s golf leagues at the Bear Lake Highlands Golf Course in Bear Lake, Mich. Throughout the years, he especially loved golfing with his wife, children, sons-in-law, and grandchildren at many golf courses in Michigan and Arizona. He also shared life lessons and family history over many euchre card games and Chinese Checkers, and he was hard to beat.

In the past several years, Ed took up cooking and baking for family and friends. His specialties were all types of healthy soups and salads, as well as delicious cakes and muffins. In addition, he was appreciated for making the best weekend and holiday breakfasts for his children and grandchildren.

Edward is preceded in death by his parents William and Pearl Acton; brothers William (Buck), Robert, Lowell (Newt); and sisters Mildred, Vivian, and Corrine.

He is survived by his loving wife Margaret (Peggy), four children: Suzanne (Michael Flattery), Michael, Timothy, and Kimberly (Tom Sanders); 10 grandchildren: Amy, Matthew (Barbara), Nicholas, Derek (Venea), Jason (Sarah), Christopher, Jonathan, Benjamin, Asena, and Ella; 10 great-grandchildren: Alexander, Jasmine, Everett, Abigail, London, Emma, Dean, Warren, Kyla, and Mason. He is also survived by his sister Gail (Acton) Slough, sister-in-law Sue (Shultz) Wright (Jack), and many dear and much-loved cousins, nieces, and nephews, along with many close friends who will miss him dearly.

The family held a private memorial service for the immediate family at IronOaks Country Club in Sun Lakes, Ariz., on Saturday, March 13, 2021. In lieu of flowers, the family is suggesting donations in his memory to Dobson Home-Hospice of the Valley, 1188 N. Dobson Road, Chandler, AZ 85224, or hov.org/donate/donate-now (and specify donation for Dobson Home location).

Lester S. Blaylock

On the early evening of Feb. 26, 2021, Lester S. Blaylock of Sun Lakes, Ariz., passed away from COVID-19.

Les was born in Indianapolis, Ind., to Magdalen and Pleasant. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps at the age of 16 and served in the Korean War. While serving, he was awarded the Bronze Star with valor and received a battlefield commission. After the Marine Corps, Les served in the Federal Government as a Photographic Officer for the Naval Material Command, a Television Production Specialist for the Epilepsy Branch of the National Institutes of Health. Always seeking a way to serve his country and community, he joined the Virginia State Guard and achieved the rank of Colonel (Va).

Les resided in Sun Lakes from 1990 until his death. He loved golf, and his retirement years allowed him to pursue the sport. He was a leader in the community, serving as the Chairman of the Recreation and Golf Committees and President of the Men’s Golf Club. He chaired the Easter Egg Hunt and started the Flag program in Sun Lakes through the Lions Club. Outside of Sun Lakes, he was instrumental in the Arizona Lions Club’s efforts to bring eyeglasses to children in Mexico and local communities. Les was a member in the VFW, American Legion, and a life-time member of the Elks. He was an accomplished artist in sketch, watercolor, and oil paintings.

In 1960 Les married the love of his life, Anna, happily spending the next 60 years together. He is survived by Anna, their two children, and three grandchildren. He also leaves three sisters, his brother, and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by two sisters and his younger brother. His smile, passion, and love of country and family, will always be remembered. At this time, there are no services planned.

Judy Budz

On Feb. 28 I lost my wife Judy Budz. For me, this has been the greatest tragedy in my life. Judy left behind three beautiful children: a girl and two boys. She also left behind a wonderful son-in-law, three lovely daughters-in-law, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. She will be missed by all of us. In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count, it’s the life in your years. Love you to the moon and back.

Richard J. Cowell

Richard J. Cowell, 91, resident of Sun Lakes, Ariz., passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, Feb. 13, 2021. He is survived by his four children and spouses, three grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Richard was preceded in death by his companion Mickey Connolly. We thank all his great Sun Lakes area friends, with a special thank you to his dear friends Pat Anderson, Roxy Trickey, and Steve Lindgren, for all their love and caring. On behalf of the family, we also express our appreciation to Home Instead and Neighbors Who Care for the services and care provided to our father.

Church & Chapel in Waukesha, Wis., provided funeral arrangements. Richard was laid to rest with military honors at Arlington Memorial Cemetery in Milwaukee, Wis.

A funeral was held March 6 in Waukesha, Wis. See www.churchandchapel.com for livestream information ending in 60 days.

Carole Ann Edstrom

Carole Ann Edstrom, 81, of Sun Lakes, Ariz., formerly of Cottonwood Falls and Overland Park, Kan., passed away peacefully to be with our Lord on Nov. 17, 2020, surrounded by family members beside her.

She was born Feb. 18, 1939, and was preceded in death by her loving husband Jack Edstrom, parents Mary Louise (Perrier) Boes and Theodore Boes, sister Emma Jean Evenson, and nephew Kurtis Becker. She is survived by her sons: Kevin (Lynn) Kruse and Korey Kruse; her sisters: Elaine Becker-Schrick (Donald), Lorita Crane (Gary), and Marilyn Czape (Mike); along with her beloved grandchildren: Alison and Austin Kruse; plus many nephews, nieces, and friends.

Carole was a graduate of Chase County High School and Marymount College, and relocated at that time to Kansas City where she was employed with General Motors for many years, finally retiring in Sun Lakes, Ariz., in 1991.

Carole was a loving wife and mother, a wonderful grandmother, an overall great lady, and a special person to all her family and friends, being very active socially in her community in tennis, golf, dancing, and playing cards, and took so much pride in being an excellent bridge player.

For all the hearts that Carole has touched, she will be missed deeply. With the continued coronavirus pandemic, a Memorial remembrance for Carole will be at a later date in Sun Lakes, when the bridge groups resume gatherings in 2021.

Carol had wished to be cremated, and a final Memorial service will be determined and held for her, followed by interment back in her State of Kansas.

John Fitzsimmons

John “Jack” Fitzsimmons, 88, beloved husband and father, passed away on March 6, 2021.

Jack was born in New York, the only child of Elsie and John Fitzsimmons, and called Long Island his home. After serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict, he continued his education at S.U.N.Y. Oswego and Hofstra University. He returned to his hometown of Baldwin, N.Y., and began a career in education, serving in different capacities: elementary school teacher, assistant superintendent of curriculum, and for many years, Principal of Harbor Junior High School. He also pursued his love of athletics by managing and coaching teams in softball, baseball, and basketball, and being an active member of the Nassau County High School Athletic Association. During these years, he and his wife Lois raised their three daughters: Sharon, Patricia, and Peggy Ann.

In 1991, Jack and Lois retired to Sun Lakes, Ariz., and began a new chapter in life. Jack loved the Sun Lakes community and was involved in many ways. His love of athletics continued in retirement, and he participated in softball, tennis, golf, and pickleball. He also served as President of the Cottonwood Tennis Club, President of PVMGA, Chairman of the Recreation Committee, and President of the 40s-50s Club.

Jack was most proud of his daughters and sons-in-law Joseph and Robert. He was especially devoted to his grandchildren: Hailey and her husband Blake, Jordan, Maxwell, and Alexandra, and most grateful that he could be part of their lives as they reached adulthood.

He will be missed by all, including his immediate and extended family, his puppy Mr. Peabody, and his many friends. Jack was always ready for good company, good times, and good laughs. We will remember his love of life and his kindness to all.

May God rest his Soul.

Michael J. O’Leary

Michael J. O’Leary (Mike) left this world for heaven on Sunday, Feb. 14, 2021, after complications from COVID-19.

Michael was 69 years old. He is survived by his wife of 22 years, Patricia (Patty) O’Leary, his daughter Jennifer and her husband David Courtney, sister Maureen O’Leary, and nephew James O’Leary and wife Elise, plus many cousins and other family members and countless friends.

Mike was predeceased by his parents William (Bill) and Virginia (Ginny) O’Leary.

He made a lot of special friends throughout the years as his aviation career took him to many different cities—living and traveling extensively across the U.S. He was an engaging, charming conversationalist, and a great storyteller and always up for a good joke.

Michael was devoted to the love of his life Patty, and his daughter Jennifer, and was the best older brother a sister could ever have. His family hopes that you remember his determined yet friendly spirit, and carry it with you and live every day to the fullest.

Betty Lou Meyer

Betty Lou Meyer passed away on Jan. 25, 2021, at the age of 90. She was born on June 25, 1930, in Colorado Springs, Colo., to Steve and Rose LeSatz. Her childhood was spent in Colorado Springs and Greeley, Colo., where she attended school. Betty loved being around her family of two sisters and two brothers and, as time went on, the extended family of in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

After graduating from Greeley High School, she worked for an accountant until meeting Ralph Meyer, her husband. After marriage, Betty and Ralph farmed in La Salle, Colo. Then they decided to move to Coolidge, Ariz., to own and run a BK drive-in and ice business until retirement. At that time, they moved to Sun Lakes, Ariz., where Ralph became active in the Rock Club, and Betty joined several card groups. Along with these activities, they enjoyed traveling with friends to Mexico, Europe, and throughout the U.S. Betty had a wonderful life, enjoying her business career, family, friends, nieces, nephews, and marriage to Ralph who preceded her in death.

The family wants to thank all of Betty’s kindhearted friends and caregivers who made her last years so worthwhile and enjoyable.

Miss Me, But Let Me Go

When I come to the end of the road

And the sun has set for me

I want no rites in a gloom-filled room,

Why cry for a soul set free?

Miss me a little but not too long,

And not with your head bowed low,

Remember the love that we once shared.

Miss me … but let me go.

For this is a journey that we all must take,

And each must go alone.

It’s all a part of the master plan

A step on the road to home.

When you are lonely and sick of heart,

Go to the friends we know,

And bury your sorrow in doing good deeds,

Miss me … but let me go. —Anonymous

Marilyn B. Schweiger

Marilyn B. Schweiger of Naperville, Ill., passed away peacefully on Friday, Jan. 1, 2021, at her residence. She was born on Nov. 20, 1936, the third child of her loving parents Mary and Frank Kuska and sister to Nancy and Frank.

Marilyn and her husband Joseph Schweiger ran a successful small business, Victor Window Shade, in Cicero, Ill., for over 40 years. Together they settled for retirement in the Sun Lakes Oakwood Country Club area that enabled them to explore the American Southwest and enjoy the warm weather. Cheerful and always of good spirit, Marilyn enjoyed hosting friends and family for dinner parties, playing board games, and making crafts. She was most artistic and could furnish a beautiful home and create magnificent floral arrangements. Marilyn and Joseph met in high school and were married for 56 years before he passed away in December of 2012. They had one daughter, Dianne, and one grandson, Stephen, whom they treasured dearly. They had many cherished friends, loved Sun Lakes, and were very generous and thoughtful to others, and made Sun Lakes a better, more friendly, and more fun place. They were longtime parishioners of St. Steven’s Catholic Church in Sun Lakes, Ariz. Marilyn moved back to Illinois a few years ago to be closer to her sister Nancy for health reasons.

Marilyn was predeceased by her parents Frank and Mary Kuska, husband Joseph Schweiger (2012), daughter Diane Schweiger Jinga (2019), brother Frank Kuska, and niece Robin Kuska. She is survived by her grandson Stephen Jinga, son-in-law John Jinga, sister Nancy Soltess, and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service is to be held at a later date due to COVID-19.

Arrangement entrusted to Friedrich-Jones Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Naperville, Ill.

Frances Inez Seago

Frances (Frankie) Inez Seago, 93, passed away peacefully at home on Feb. 17, 2021. She was the fifth of seven children, born August, 1927, in Deer Trail, Colo., to Ralph and Annie Lorimor. She grew up in Colorado and graduated from Manual High School, Class of 1944.

On Dec. 1, 1944, she married the love of her life, Loren Seago. They remained married for 76 years, until her passing. She is survived by her sister Fleta Klinginsmith; three children: Judy Sleasman (husband Ken), Loren Seago, Jr. (wife Barbara), Ralph Seago (wife Sherrie); eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Frances will be remembered for her warm heart, love of family, and friend gatherings. The more the merrier. She had wonderful skills at sewing, crocheting (potholders and hangers are the most prolific), and golf. She will be sorely missed by all who loved her.

Marilyn Steen

Marilyn Steen passed away Feb. 23, 2021, at Chandler Regional Hospital with her son Bryan by her side. She was born March 8, 1936, to Robert and Zelma Boyd of Paducah, Ky.

Marilyn graduated from Ohio State University. She was married to Bob Hook, and they had three children: Denise Hook and Dennis (wife Jan) Hook in Alaska, and Bryan (wife April) Hook in Alabama. She is survived by a sister, Martha Kinelski, of North Carolina.

Marilyn was a career woman, working for the Civil Service and IRS in Alaska, Las Vegas, and Chandler, Ariz. She retired to Sun Lakes 27 years ago and led an active lifestyle. She loved to travel with friends and family. Her lovely home was decorated with art treasures she collected not only in Alaska where she lived 17 years, but also in Europe, Africa, and the Far East.

In Sun Lakes, she was an active member of the Peridot Questers, the Agave Quilters, P.E.O. Chapter DW, several book clubs (one comprised of Alaska ladies), and bridge clubs. Her hobbies were making lovely quilts (many gracing her home), watching basketball and baseball, and reading.

She attended the Risen Savior Lutheran Church and was active in the Women’s Fellowship.

As a result of admiration of P.E.O., she requested memorial gifts be made to the P.E.O. Cottey College Fund. Checks may be sent to P.E.O. International, 3700 Grand Ave., Des Moines, IA 50312 (or online by visiting www.peointernational.org and use the “Giving Opportunities” link on the home page).

Thomas Blain Edward Tagatz

Tom Tagatz, 87, passed away on Feb. 18, 2021, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born Dec. 13, 1933, in Milwaukee, Wis., the first-born son to Betty and George Tagatz. Tom grew up in Bellwood, Ill., with his two younger brothers George and Robert Tagatz.

He played basketball at Proviso High School and was fortunate to get a basketball scholarship to Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. It was a dream of Tom’s to play collegiate basketball. He had a great time playing basketball at Drake and was known for his corner jump shot. Tom was selected as the captain of the team his senior year. Basketball also was the path to meeting his bride Carolyn Johnson Tagatz. They were set up on a blind date by teammate (Dick Koskovick). The date was a success, and Tom and Carolyn were married April 23, 1955. Tom graduated from Drake with a degree in retail management.

His first job was with JC Penny’s. Shortly after starting his career at JC Penny’s, he was drafted into the Army on June 18, 1956, and stationed in Fort Chaffee in Arkansas. Tom was recruited to play on the Army basketball team and played some of his best basketball during those years. Both Tom and Carolyn say their experience in the Army was some of their fondest memories. After the service, they returned to Des Moines and started their family. After a couple of relocations, they settled in Sioux City, Iowa. It was there that Tom and Carolyn owned and operated a couple of True Value Hardware stores. This was another big dream of Tom’s. They worked together for 23 years.

In 1997 they retired to beautiful Sun Lakes, Ariz. Tom thoroughly enjoyed retirement, spending his days golfing, gardening, and entertaining his three grandsons and his two children when they visited. One of Tom’s greatest loves was his three grandsons. Tom was very active in the community and loved helping people. He had wonderful wit about him and an engaging smile. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, especially his family who loved and cherished him. He is known by his three grandsons as “Pop,” the legend. His family is at peace knowing Tom is in heaven and no longer suffering with the limitations of Parkinson’s, and eating all the ice cream his heart desires.

Tom is survived by his bride of 66 years, Carolyn Tagatz; son Thomas Tagatz in Mount Shasta, Calif.; daughter Ann Cascella (Guy) in Golden, Colo.; and his three grandsons: David McFarlane (Jacque); great-granddaughter Georgia in Milliken, Colo.; Daniel McFarlane in Glenwood Springs, Colo.; and John “Jack” McFarlane In Golden, Colo.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that donations be given to Risen Savior Lutheran Church.

Mary Tomlan

On Monday, Mach 1, 2021, Mary Tomlan, loving wife, mother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 90 surrounded by her family in Sun Lakes, Ariz.

Mary was born in Waverly, Minn., the eldest of 10 children of LeRoy and Anna Demarais. She received her degree in nursing from the St. Cloud School of Nursing, which led her career to California, Hawaii, Washington, and Alaska. She married John Tomlan in 1958 and they raised two daughters, Janelle (Ashley) and Janet (Souders).

Mary had a passion for her faith and her family. She performed countless hours of volunteer work after retiring from a 42-year nursing career. With her compassionate spirit, she was always willing to help her community and give back. She brought joy and fun to her passion of playing games, card and bridge, and enjoyed her friends and bridge groups in her later years. She was always the first to make sure others were included and welcome.

Mary is preceded in death by her husband, John. She is survived by her daughters, and their families. She is also survived by two grandchildren, Kyle and Sara Ashley, as well as her brother Bill Demarais and sister Bernie Vadner, in addition to numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Later this autumn, funeral and interment at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona will be arranged. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that gifts be made in honor of Mary Tomlan to Banner Homecare and Hospice, who provided such wonderful Hospice Care.

Banner Health Foundation is located at 2901 N. Central Avenue, Suite 160, Phoenix, AZ 85012 and their website is www.bannerhealthfoundation.org.

Renee Tooke

Renee Tooke was “hugged” into Heaven in the loving arms of her family in the early morning of March 4, 2021. Prior to her death, she had been hospitalized, courageously battling complications of the COVID virus.

Renee was born Carole Renee Costlow on Nov. 20, 1943, in Windber, Pa., to Walter and Henriette Costlow. Her 56 years of marriage to Bob Tooke began in 1965. They resided in Missouri for eight years. Here she gave birth to her children who became the joy of her life. Next stop was the Lake Minnetonka area of Minneapolis where the family was raised. After 23 years in Minnesota, Renee and Bob retired to Sun Lakes, Ariz., in 1998.

Preceding her in death were her parents and a special grandmother (Mum). Surviving are her husband; son David of Austin, Texas; daughter Susan of Tucson, Ariz.; and sister Patti Trampe of Maple Grove, Minn.

After graduating from high school in the Johnstown, Pa. area, she attended the U of Pittsburgh, U of Missouri, and U of Minnesota. After raising the family (always No. 1), she enjoyed a successful career in real estate sales and property management.

Renee loved everything “water!” She was a swimmer from age 6 to age 76-plus. She surfed in Hawaii, windsurfed on Lake Minnetonka well into her 50s, and water skied anywhere there was water and a boat. Additionally, she was an avid reader, enjoyed duplicate bridge, tennis, community theater, entertaining, and chocolate. Always volunteering, Renee was a court-appointed Guardian ad Litem for many years, advocating for abused and neglected children. During retirement, Renee and Bob enjoyed cruising and visited almost 50 countries.

Renee was a little lady with a huge heart. Numerous health challenges did not alter her Faith, positive attitude, sense of humor with an infectious laugh, and her incredible spirit. She was home to a very spiritual Soul which lives on.

Memorial Services were held on Saturday, March 27, 2021.