In Passing – April 2024

George Edward Cox

George was born in Columbus, Ind., on Oct. 7, 1931. A beloved husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, and friend, he passed away peacefully on March 13, 2024.

After his time in the Navy, George ventured to Sunnyvale, Calif., where he had a career as an engineer at Lockheed Martin and worked on the Milstar Hubble in the space program.

In 1991, after 35 years of devoted service, George retired and embarked on a new chapter of life with his beloved wife, Beverly, in Sun Lakes. Here, George found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved to paint in earlier years, loved rounds of golf, spirited card games with friends, and loved to dance.

George’s greatest joy, however, was found in the love he shared with his family. He leaves behind his cherished wife, Beverly, his daughters, Jane Dean and Pam Hardy, and his beloved stepsons, Monte Lebo and James Lebo. His legacy of love extends to his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought endless joy.

A man of profound love, kindness, and generosity, George touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His gentle demeanor, warm smile, and compassionate heart left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who crossed his path.

Rest in peace, dear George. You will be deeply missed, but your love will continue to touch our lives for eternity.

Evelyn Lenore Eggen

Evelyn peacefully passed away Dec. 27, 2023, with her family by her side. She was born the fourth child of seven to William and Clara Mienert in 1927 in Fosston, Minn. After high school, she moved to Minneapolis where she shared a house with three girls and worked at McKesson and Robbins.

She met Don Eggen and they were married in 1949. In 1960, they moved to Phoenix and raised Ron, Jane, Cameron, Karen, Dan, and Jim. Always staying busy with kids and swim teams and bowling leagues, she was also integral in founding Uglies Unlimited where she sold Speedo swimsuits to outfit swim teams across the world.

When Don retired in 1983, they moved to Sun Lakes. Evelyn worked in the Pro Shop at the new Cottonwood and Palo Verde Country Clubs, making many friends. She lost Don in 1990, but stayed in her house past her 96th birthday. She was truly a member of the Greatest Generation. Thanks again for everything, Mom. We sure miss you.

Her surviving relatives include one brother, six kids, 11 grandkids, four great-grandkids, and countless extended family.

Michele Halloway

Michele Ann Halloway, at the age of 84, left this earth on Feb. 5, 2024, to join her Savior. She passed suddenly—in her apartment, where she had recounted stories of her life just the day before. Michele is survived by her four children, Laura, Janine, Steve, and Ken; grandchildren Amelia, Jacob, and Stephen; and her brother, John.

Born in the state of Washington during the latter stages of the Great Depression, Michele’s parents, Bob and Lillian Jones, were products of the Greatest Generation, Bob a truck driver and Lillian a nurse. They moved up to Anchorage, Alaska, shortly thereafter, where Michele grew up and graduated from high school. The photos from her teens reflect a trip down memory lane of the ’50s, complete with jukeboxes, bobby socks, and her baton twirling during a festival down 4th Avenue in Anchorage.

Michele married and began her own family at an early age and settled in Pasadena, Calif., in the early ’60s. Combining work and four children to raise was a challenge, but one that Michele met head on. Working as a bookkeeper, she eventually met a wonderful accountant and in 1967 married again to Donald Halloway, who would remain by her side until his passing in 2019.

Inspired by her youth, Michele and family moved back up to Anchorage in 1968, just in time to enjoy the benefits of oil having been found at the northern slope. A growing city with new fraternal orders and civic groups, Michele quickly became part of the city fabric with a wide range of friends from the Mt. McKinley Lions Club, PEO, and church functions. The annual Fur Rendezvous Festival group-costume award was won by her and friends several times and pictures from the annual Christmas Eve party at her home showed barely a stitch of carpet unoccupied by friends.

In 1971, the family began to host a college baseball player during the summer and Glacier Pilots games became a constant for them until 1981, when the kids were all off to college themselves. One year, they hosted a player who would later play for the Los Angeles Dodgers, winning a World Series. Decades later, Michele was still in touch with many of the players who referred to her as “their summer mom.”

The ’70s and early ’80s were a time for Michele and Don to travel with friends to far-flung locations around the world. Mexico, Europe, Africa, Japan, and Israel were favorites, and the family made trips to sunny Hawaii during the winter months. During this period, Michele would change jobs from her interior design work to join Alaska Airlines as a ticket and gate agent.

With no children remaining at home to shovel snow from the driveway, Michele and Don headed south to Sun Lakes, Ariz., in 1989, where many of their Anchorage friends were relocating themselves. Michele continued to work for Alaska Airlines in Phoenix for several years, enjoying the flight benefits, but more and more it was family and friends who would come to visit her.

Whether in the snow of Alaska or sun of Arizona, Christmas was Michele’s favorite time of year, and she loved to display her festive decorations. Family was always with her, and in many years, all of the kids would join her—some showing up as a surprise!

Michele’s favorite saying was “my utmost for his highest” and though we grieve her passing, we are comforted by the knowledge of her faith and reunification with her beloved Don for eternity.

For those that knew her, feel free to pass your thoughts on to her children at [email protected].

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wycliffe Bible Translators.

Robert W. Hornlein

Robert William Hornlein was born May 3, 1935, in Pennsylvania. He was a proud Marine who served during the Korean War. He started his career in nondestructive testing and later moved to quality control management at AlliedSignal in Torrance, Calif.

Robert married Anita on June 30, 1973. They were married for 49 years. After retirement Robert and Anita moved to Sun Lakes, Ariz., in 1991. Robert enjoyed a life of golfing, entertaining, and traveling.

Robert and Anita had four children: Michelle, Richard (Julie), Penny, and Craig, five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Robert joined his wife Anita in heaven on Jan. 31, 2024. He is preceded in death by daughter Penny, and his parents.

Joan A. Kranz

Joan A. Kranz, 90, of Chandler, passed away on Feb. 14, 2024. Joan was born on Feb. 22, 1933, in Woodside, N.Y.

A proud New Yorker, Joan loved to share stories from her childhood and her days working at Universal Studios in Manhattan. After meeting the love of her life, Albert, she raised her family on Long Island and there she made many lifelong friends. She and Al retired to Sun Lakes, Ariz., in 1991, where Joan enjoyed many girls’ trips and a variety of community activities with her friends. She had 52 happy years with Al until his death in 2009.

The pride and joy of Joan’s life was her family, which includes her dearly loved grandsons and children, beloved nieces and nephews, and those she loved as if they were family.

Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Albert J. Kranz, and her sister, Eileen Harsnett. She is survived by her children, Jim and Jean Kranz of Charleston, W.V., Carolyn Bonamo of Chandler, Ariz., and her grandsons Matthew Bonamo and Timothy Bonamo. She is also survived by the daughter she always held in her heart, Kathy Pinelli of Zephyrhills, Fla.

Private services will be held. The family requests donations be made to Children’s Cancer Network, an organization Joan felt strongly about, at childrenscancernetwork.org.

Horatio “Ray” Macedo

Horatio “Ray” Macedo, 90, of Sun Lakes, passed away on Feb. 16, 2024. A man of many talents, he chose to serve his country and community as a career military man with first the Marines and then the Army. He was also a reserve officer with Tempe Police Department and worked in casino security.

Outgoing and kind, he was always willing to help those in need. He was a wonderful father and friend to his neighbors, and he will be missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his son Jeff, daughter-in-law Beth, and many friends in Arizona and across the U.S.

Services were held at Saint Steven’s Catholic Church on March 7.

As a final tribute to his late wife of 60 years, Ray requested that in lieu of flowers, please donate in his name to The Arizona Humane Society, 1521 S. Dobbins Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85041 or The American Cancer Society (please specify Multiple Myeloma Research) at 4550 E. Bell Rd. #126, Phoenix, AZ 85032.

“As long as we remember a person, they’re not really gone. Their thoughts, their feelings, their memories, they become a part of us.”

Carol Martin

Carol Martin, age 81, of Sun Lakes, Ariz., passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024.

Carol was born on Nov. 24, 1942, in Whitehall, Mont., to Adolf and Doris Frederick. In her adult life, Carol worked as a Human Resources Security Specialist for the federal government. Carol enjoyed reading, gardening, her dogs, painting, and home decorating.

Carol is survived by her five children, Todd, Scott, Stephanie, Sue, and Phil; her 12 grandchildren, Rachel, Scott, Nate, Megan, Haley, Nick, Alex, Ally Sue, Joel, Jamie, Evan, and Cody; and three great-grandchildren, Raylena, Serena, and Nathan. She is preceded in death by her husband of 29 years, Rodney Martin, her stepdaughter Paula, and her grandson Anthony. Carol will also be sorely missed by her cousins Jim, Dick, Janet, Sandy, and Kevin, and her beloved dog, Smokee.

Carol’s family would like to give special thanks to the Maricopa County Fire Department. In lieu of flowers, please donate to either the American Cancer Society or the ASPCA.

A service will take place at a later date in Billings, Montana.

Patricia Ann McCrindle

Patricia Ann McCrindle, nee Kerkhoven. Age 89. Born Nov. 7, 1934, in Harvey, Ill. At rest March 4, 2024. Resident of Sun Lakes, Ariz., for 30 years, formerly of Chicago Heights. Graduate of Thornton High School. Attended the University of Florida. Returned to college in 1966 and graduated magna cum laude 1969 from Arizona State University. Teacher of physical education and social dance at Bloom Township High School for 20 years. Retired in 1990.

Wife of the late Robert McCrindle. Cherished mother of Susan (late Richard) Petrarca, William (Joann), Michael (late Maureen), Beth (T.C. Johnston). Dear stepmother of Beth (Mark) Fleming. Loving grandmother of Lauren McCrindle, Wes Fleming, Jason Fleming, Rachel Fleming, and Emma Fleming. Beloved friend and companion of the late C. Wesley Mason. Daughter of the late Doris (nee Lawrenson) and late John Kerkhoven. Cousin and dear friend to many.

Services and interment private. Pat wished for Masses to be said in her name at a church of your choice. More information: Panozzo Bros. Funeral Home, Chicago Heights, 708-481-9230 and panozzobros.com.

Dr. Melville T. Moore

Dr. Melville T. Moore was born in Trenton, Mo., on June 16, 1933, to Rex and Claire Moore. He died on March 9, 2024.

The Moore family moved to Phoenix, Ariz., in 1947. Mel attended North Phoenix High School, going on to Phoenix Junior College and eventually ASU, graduating in 1956. Following this he attended The University of Kansas Medical School, graduating in 1960. He interned at the Lackland Air Force base hospital in San Antonio, Texas. He then spent two years at the USAF Academy as a general medical officer. Following his air force career, he moved to Atlanta, Ga., where he did a one-year residency in Internal Medicine.

He opened his solo practice in Family Medicine in 1964 in Clarkston, Ga., a suburb of Atlanta. He was the first doctor to practice there in 50 years. He practiced Family Medicine there for 13 years and was the only Family Practice physician in the Decatur, Ga., area to have ICU and CCU privileges at the local hospital.

In 1977 he moved his family to Phoenix to begin work in a 240 physician multi-specialty group that later became Cigna Health Care. While with Cigna, he practiced Family Medicine and medical management, acting as chairman of the Family Practice department from 1981 to 1984 and chief of staff of multi-specialty centers from 1984 to 1993. He retired in July 2000. After retirement, he served as a part time adjunct professor at the Southwestern College of Naturopathic Medicine from 2000 to 2004 as an instructor in allopathic diseases.

He was a lifetime member of the American Academy of Family Physicians. He was board certified by the American Academy of Family Physicians and by the American Academy of Medical Management.

In 2004 he moved his family to Cape Girardeau, Mo., and they resided there until 2017 when they moved back to Phoenix.

Mel’s personal life was always interesting. From the start, he was known as “a funny guy.” His jokes were always a hit with colleagues. Who can forget the story of the “Cashmere Suit”? He started playing golf at age 9 and continued throughout his life. He played varsity golf in high school, and he played for both Phoenix College and ASU. He continued in the Air Force playing on the Academy team that went to Washington, D.C., for the all Air Force tournament. As he got older, he had less time to play but was still able to tie a course 9-hole record in North Carolina of 29 when he was 44. He finally was able to shoot his age, the first time at 73 when he shot a 69 in a club championship in Missouri.

His other love was music. He started playing the trombone at age 9 and played for 10 years. He stopped when a buddy told him he was tone deaf! Despite this, he had a dance band his senior year in high school.

Mel was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Ronald Moore, his sister Jeanne Roberts, and a granddaughter. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Shirley Moore; his four children, Michelle Maconochie, Dayna Neal, Wendi Carns, and Chandler Moore; seven grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

He will be truly missed by his loving family. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in his name to Phoenix Children’s Hospital Foundation, phoenixchildrensfoundation.org.

Robert (Bob) R. Petrucelli

Robert Rocco Petrucelli of Sun Lakes, Ariz., and Easton, Conn.—dedicated father, brother, grandfather, uncle, loyal friend, and loving husband to the late Nancy Babs Delvecchio Petrucelli and Natalie Keeker Petrucelli—died on Feb. 15 at the age of 92 at his home surrounded by the love of his family. Bob was born in Bridgeport, Conn., on Nov. 24, 1931, to the late Rocco and Mildred Petrucelli. He was a graduate of Fairfield Prep, attended Yale University for two years and graduated valedictorian of Fairfield University class of 1954 where he was president of his class, editor-in-chief of The Stag, and a member of the Honor Society, Glee Club, and Debating Club. Bob had a strong work ethic starting as a young boy, delivering papers early in the morning for the Bridgeport Post. He paid 75% of his college expenses with his earnings. Bob was then awarded a full scholarship to Georgetown Law where he received his J.D. in 1957.

He married his great love, the late Nancy Babs Petrucelli in 1963 and made their home in Easton, Conn. Together they had two children, Joan (Joanie) and Rob. Bob was an accomplished lawyer in private practice most of his career. In 1975 he became an assistant prosecutor in the Connecticut court of common pleas, and was appointed President of the University of Bridgeport Italian Scholarship Committee. His true love was being in the courtroom, commanding the stage.

Bob did it all; he was an actor, avid joke teller, wrote and published his first book in 2009, and was a popular lecturer on several Princess cruises, traveling the world with friends and family. Bob gave a gift to all of us years ago when he wrote a memoir of his childhood and family growing up in a four-family house on Brooks Street in Bridgeport, Conn. Bob will never be replaced or duplicated. He was simply one of a kind. Always with a smile, a big laugh, and an even bigger heart. He taught us all how to live, love, laugh, and be kind.

His beloved Babs passed away in 1994. He was peaceful knowing Babs was there with open arms ready to dance up a storm—it warms our hearts knowing Bob and Babs are reunited after almost 30 years. In 2007, Bob followed his daughter from Connecticut to Arizona where he made his home in Sun Lakes for the past 17 years. He married Natalie Keeker in 2013; she passed away in April 2023.

He was surrounded by the love of his family and survived by his children and their spouses; Joan Petrucelli Saunders (Rod Saunders) of Phoenix, Ariz., Rob Petrucelli (Melinda Petrucelli) of Fairfield, Conn., his grandchildren Ryan and Bella Petrucelli, Gavin and Garrett Saunders, his sister Arlene Mayernik of Stratford, Conn., and nieces and nephews and cousins. Bob leaves quite the legacy and will be missed by anyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Art Weith

Arthur F. Weith Jr., 92, passed away on Friday, Feb. 16, 2024, in his memory care home in Overland Park, Kan., with family by his side.

Art was born in Chicago, Ill., on July 7, 1931. His start to university was interrupted by the Korean War when he enlisted in the USAF and completed Airman training at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, Texas, in 1952. Art served his country as an air traffic controller based in Japan. After his service, he graduated from Roosevelt University in Chicago, Ill., in 1958 with a B.S. in Commerce. Art married Carolyn G. Bryant (Lynn) later that year in August 1958 and lived for many years in the Chicago area and subsequently, Overland Park, Kan., with their three children.

Art had a long career in the insurance industry after which he and Lynn retired to the Oakwood section of Sun Lakes in 1996. Art and Lynn were active members of Sun Lakes United Church of Christ and in the Sun Lakes tennis community. Art and Lynn loved their desert living and the many, many cruise vacations with new and long-time friends through the years.

They were married for 65 years before Lynn’s sudden passing in November 2023. Art and Lynn’s children, Brian (and Michele) Weith of Overland Park, Kan., Steve (and Mary Beth) Weith of Plano, Texas, and Carolyn (and Stan) Wiley of Mooresville, N.C., and their four grandchildren miss them both dearly.

An interment of ashes is planned at Ft. Leavenworth National Cemetery in Leavenworth, Kan. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a charity of your choosing or to Sun Lakes United Church of Christ.