In Passing – April 2025

Newman Ovid Benson

Newman Ovid Benson passed away peacefully on Feb. 17, 2025, in Chandler, Ariz. Newman was born on Aug. 4, 1928, in Drummond, Wis., the son of Ovid and Lillian (Wilson) Benson. He graduated from Drummond High School in 1946 where he was an exceptional athlete. He played both baseball and basketball. The basketball team won four straight conference and district championships. He also played the trumpet in his father’s high school band. In the fall of 1946, he attended the UW-River Falls (River Falls State Teachers College) and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Social Science and Physical Education in 1950. His athletic abilities continued at the UW-River Falls where he won eight athletic letters, four in basketball and four in baseball. He signed a professional baseball contract with the Philadelphia Phillies where he played in Appleton for the Wisconsin State League as a shortstop. In 1950, he was drafted by the Minneapolis Lakers and played with them for a month and half.

In November of 1950, he was drafted into the U.S. Army. He took basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. He spent 23 months in Japan and Korea during the Korean War with the 24th Infantry Division. He received the Medal of Freedom for Military Merit and obtained the rank of Sergeant. After Newman was discharged in 1953, he taught school in Bloomer, Wis. In the fall of 1954, he attended the University of Indiana in Bloomington, Ind., where he received a Master’s Degree in Physical Education. In 1955, he taught at Hayward High School and was united in marriage to Betty Ploof in 1957. He taught at Whitehall and Chippewa Falls High Schools and was named head basketball coach and physical education instructor at the UW-River Falls In 1967. Before retiring in 1990, he was inducted to the UW-River Falls Athletic Hall of Fame. Newman enjoyed camping trips with his family, hunting with his son, lap swimming, long morning walks, and playing golf with his wife at the SunBird Golf Resort where they lived. You could also hear him cheering on his Packers and Badgers.

Newman is survived by his wife of 68 years Betty, daughters, Jayne, Holly, and Barbara (Jeff Costello), and son Mark (Karen) in addition to six grandchildren and six great–grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brother Roland and his mother and father. A Celebration of Life is scheduled for April 26 at 11 a.m. at the Sun Lakes United Methodist Church, where he was a member for 25 years.

Bruce A. Folken

Bruce was born in Austin, Minn., to Arthur and Shirley (Mellem) Folken. He grew up with five siblings: Sue (Tim) Perkins, David (Cindy) Folken, Scott Folken, Sally Fuller, and John (Michelle) Folken. After graduation from Austin High School in 1968, he went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Minnesota.

On Sept. 4, 1971, he married the love of his life, Debra White, with whom he has two sons: Jason (Regina) Folken, Alex (Diem) Folken.

Bruce was a hardworking man who took pride in a resume that included roles such as paper boy, clothing sales associate, Hormel plant worker, tax professional, and Army national guardsman.

In 1973 he was hired as a Business & Marketing instructor at the Red Wing Vocational Institute. In August of 1976, he began a 35-year career at American Greetings. His career with AG took him and his family across the country for 10 years until they settled in Eagan, Minn., where he exclusively managed the greeting card company’s distribution and operations for Target nationwide. This successful career took him to every state except Vermont. He loved discovering new restaurants, finding alternative routes, meeting new people, and telling old stories. He spent 25 years in this role before retiring in May 2009.

During his early retirement years, Bruce was passionate about volunteering with Norway House in Minneapolis and successfully led efforts to have Apple Valley, Minn., recognized as a Yellow Ribbon city. While vacationing in Arizona, he continued traveling around Arizona cities to be the guest speaker at various Sons of Norway Chapters promoting the Norway House and was passionate about Norwegian Heritage. He enjoyed the Scandinavian Club here in Sun Lakes. Other hobbies included fishing, golfing, watching Minnesota sports, listening to ’60s music (he has albums to prove it), and exploring his heritage. His only trip abroad took him ‘home’ to Norway, where he visited four family homesteads and formed meaningful connections with several Norwegian cousins.

After spending several winters as ‘snowbirds’ in Arizona, Bruce and Debra finally left the cold behind and moved permanently to Sun Lakes, Ariz., in 2019. Although, his heart always remained in his hometown of Austin, Minn. In 2022, he returned to lead a 50th-anniversary celebration of his favorite landmark, The Tower, a live music venue for local teenagers in the 1960s. Bruce loved all music, especially live music. They both enjoyed all the music concerts here in Sun Lakes. Bruce and Debra met on the dance floor and would find any opportunity to get up and dance wherever they were until he was not able to.

In addition to his wife Debra of 53 years, and his two sons, Bruce’s memory lives on in his two grandchildren, Ainsley Sloan and namesake Harper Bruce.

Bruce’s Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, March 1, 2025, in Eagan, Minn. The Folken family wishes to thank loyal friends and family, especially those who traveled from far away, who joined them in celebrating Bruce’s life.

Diane Grosse

Diane Grosse, age 81, of Sun Lakes, Ariz., passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025. Diane was born in Santa Monica, Calif., on Sept. 30, 1943.

She grew up in Vail, Iowa, and attended Carroll Kemper High School. She moved to New York City after high school to work and train as a secretary. Upon moving back to Omaha, Neb., she met and married Don Grosse. They lived in the same home in Omaha for 42 years raising four girls: Patti, Kris, Sherry, and Amy. Don and Diane retired and moved to Sun Lakes, Ariz., 20 years ago at which time they became very involved in the community and became members of St. Steven’s Roman Catholic Church. Diane enjoyed hours of card playing, golf, knitting, thrifting, and casinos. She bragged about her three hole-in-ones! She always remembered special occasions and was quick to send a card. Diane was the most frugal, savvy coupon gal and had a green thumb. Diane had a sharp memory that amazed her family. She will be missed for her witty sense of humor and love of her family and friends.

Diane is survived by her husband of 61 years, Don Grosse; daughters: Patti (Jerry) Johnston, Kris (Tony) Kaska, Sherry (Mark) Driscoll, and Amy (Mike) McDonnell; grandchildren: Jacob Kaska, Adam Kaska, Maddie Kaska, Andrew (Karmin) Driscoll, Jack Driscoll, Ryan McDonnell, Stacie Staniszewski, and Chad Johnston; great–grandchildren: Braeden and Colton Staniszewski, Desi and Devin Driscoll; sister, Denise Odendall; and brother, Tim (Diane) Ryan. She was preceded in death by her parents, Fabian and Anita Ryan, and her brother, Mike (Mary) Ryan.

The family would like to give special thanks to the paramedics and Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, friends, and family.

A celebration of Diane’s life will be held on Saturday, April 5 at St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church, 11802 Pacific St. Omaha, NE 68154. The Visitation will occur from 9 to 10 a.m., followed by Mass at 10 am.

In lieu of flowers: donations in Diane’s name to the Omaha VFW or Arizona Fire and Medical Authority (AFMA).

Curtiss William Harper

Curtiss William Harper, 76, of Sun Lakes, Ariz., peacefully passed away Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025.

Curt was born in South Milwaukee, Wis., on Nov. 12, 1948, to Daniel and Dorothy Harper. Curt graduated from South Milwaukee High School and earned an Associate of Arts degree from Herzing Institute in Milwaukee. He was married to Mary Ann Harper, on May 29, 1971, in South Milwaukee, Wis.

Curt had a career in Information Technology for Massey Ferguson, the Arizona Department of Transportation, America West Airlines, and the City of Goodyear. He was proud of his professional accomplishments as a General Manager, Senior Manager, and Systems Manager. With his guidance and leadership, he founded the Applications and Business Division for the City of Goodyear. Additionally, he developed and implemented multiple other systems and methodologies throughout his career.

Curt had a passion for golf, baseball, the Packers, and most importantly his family. As a golfer Curt won many local and regional tournaments and enjoyed getting out and playing a round whenever he could. He instilled his passion for sports and family in his children.

Awaiting Curt in heaven are his mother, father, and older brother Jimmy.

Curt is survived by his loving wife Mary; children Theresa Arellano and William Harper; son-in-law Jonathan Arellano and daughter-in-law Lisa Harper; grandchildren Christian and Isabel Arellano, Mason and David Harper; brother Patrick Harper; nephew Tony Harper and great-nephews Austin and Daniel Harper; as well as a much-loved extended family and countless friends.

Services were held Feb. 28, 2025.

Phillip Johnson

Phillip Johnson passed away on Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025, at the age of 84. He was born in Los Angeles, Calif., on Dec. 18, 1940.

Phil graduated from Upland High School and received his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Phoenix. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army. Phil spent his career as a business owner in the wholesale industry as well as in high school education.

Beyond his professional life, Phil had a deep passion for sports, especially his beloved Arizona Diamondbacks. He was a member of Distributive Education Clubs of America as well as various youth sport teams. Phil leaves behind a legacy of dedication and love for his family and will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and the good Samaritan he was.

Phil is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Nancy (Nichols) Johnson; his son, Rick Johnson (Tracy); grandchildren, Parker, Austin, and Grayson Johnson; his sister, Carol Lemke; 21 nieces and nephews; and special brother and sisters in-law, Larry and Beverly Nichols, Patricia Johnson, and Patty Jo Johnson.

Phil will be laid to rest with Army honors at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona on Friday, March 21, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his memory to Tunnel to Towers Foundation: t2t.org or to St. Jude Children’s Hospital: stjude.org.

Lorelei Cecile Scharbach

Lorelei Cecile Scharbach, 82, passed away on Feb. 4, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Lori was married to John Wayne Scharbach for more than 60 years and was the loving mother of Deborah (Byron), Shelby, and Melissa (Devin). She was a proud grandmother to Joshua, Zachary, Rhyan, and Justin, cherishing every moment with them.

Lori served her country with honor in the U.S. Air Force before dedicating 20 years to the U.S. Postal Service. She had a sharp mind, a competitive spirit, and joy of music, which shone through in her love of bridge, trivia nights, playing the slots at the casino, and attending concerts. She also had an adventurous spirit and traveled all over the world, embracing new cultures and experiences with enthusiasm. Always ready for a great conversation, she made every gathering more lively with her wit and charm.

Her warmth, laughter, and unwavering love for her family and friends will be deeply missed. Lorelei lived life with joy and adventure, leaving behind a legacy of cherished memories. She has found her forever peace and is laid to rest at the National Memorial Cemetery of Veterans in Arizona.

Phyllis Ann Swanson

Phyllis Ann Swanson, age 89, of Sun Lakes, Ariz., passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 2, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Bellaire, Ohio, and raised in East Liverpool, Ohio, Phyllis devoted her life to her family and her community. For 11 years, she was a cherished volunteer member of the Sun Lakes Sheriff’s Posse, where she took great pride in her role as the head of office medical equipment, ensuring that the needs of her community were met with care and efficiency. Phyllis was not only dedicated to serving others but also enjoyed pursuing her passions, which included golfing and swimming, where she found joy and companionship.

A loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Phyllis is survived by her beloved husband, James R. Swanson, with whom she shared 40 wonderful years of marriage. She often spoke of how the love they shared was a guiding light in her life. Her family will forever remember her warmth, wisdom, and the laughter she brought into their lives. Phyllis’s kindness and positivity will be missed deeply, leaving behind a legacy of love and strength.

In her passing, she leaves a profound void, but her spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her. As her family grieves this tremendous loss, they find comfort in the knowledge that she touched countless lives with her generosity and love. Rest in peace, dear Phyllis; your legacy will live on in our hearts.

Lynn Thompson

Lynn Erling Thompson, 85, passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus on March 1, 2025. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Lynn will be fondly remembered for his generosity, quick wit, and adventurous spirit.

Born on July 15, 1939, in Minneapolis, Minn., Lynn was the son of Kermit and Vivian Thompson and brother to Debbie Thompson. He lived in Minnesota until he joined the Navy in February of 1958. He served his country admirably aboard the USS Galveston for three years, including support of the naval blockade near Cuba during the Cuban Missile Crisis. After his stint in the Navy, he met and married his beautiful wife of 61 years, Meredith Petersen, and eventually moved to Illinois. Lynn started a long career as a CPA-turned-auditor while raising a family in Wheaton, Ill. He retired in 1996 to Sun Lakes, Ariz., where he lived the rest of his life.

Though he enjoyed golf, Lynn’s greatest passion was photography—a hobby he began in 1980. He is known for his spectacular photos and expertise behind the lens. His photography took him worldwide, yet catching the sunrise over the Superstition Mountains, Grand Canyon, and Monument Valley were always among his favorite places. As much as he relished capturing the beauty of nature on his Nikon, it was the friendships and people he met along the way that he truly cherished. Lynn’s life was greatly enriched by his camera club companions who joined him on trips to Africa, Iceland, Russia, the Galapagos Islands, and more. His photos delight many people—residents at Robson Reserve pause at his door to savor the picture on display, family members decorate their homes with his art, and students appreciate his landscapes on the school library walls where his daughter worked. His art will continue to bring joy to others for a long time to come.

Lynn lived a vibrant life, filled with the love of family and treasured friends. He is survived by his wife, Meredith Thompson, and his two daughters Sara Bruck (Todd Bruck) of Atlanta, Ga., and Polly Vogt (Ryan Vogt) of Chandler, Ariz. His beloved grandchildren include Gavin Vogt, Jaeden Vogt, and Jack Bruck, who were among his dearest treasures. Lynn will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He lives in our hearts and memories, and his influence will remain with us for the rest of our lives.

No public service is planned, per his wishes.

Betty Jean Weber

Betty Jean Weber, 86, passed away on Feb. 3, 2025, in Tempe, Ariz. She was born in Ypsilanti, Mich., on June 27, 1938. In the ’50s Betty moved to California and after 10 years moved to Arizona where she lived the rest of her life. It was in Arizona where she built a successful career as a cosmetologist and owned beauty shops in Tempe, Ahwatukee, and Sun Lakes, BJ’s Shear Class and BJ’s Hair Company. Her dedication to her craft and her clients made her a beloved figure in the community.

Beyond her professional life, Betty was known for her fun loving and vibrant spirit. She enjoyed shopping, shoes, and gardening. She loved the beach, going to the sand dunes, and traveling. She had a deep affection for birds and animals in general and cherished the companionship of her two fur baby pups, Rosie and Daisy.

Betty is preceded in death by her parents Mildred J. Bush and Fred K. Weber, sister Nancy Conrad, and brother Fred C. Weber. Betty is survived by her sisters Janet Lindvall and Gloria Hubbell and brothers Jim Weber and Mark Weber. She is also survived by her daughters Debra (John) Boylan and Sandra (Bob) Street, and her son Jon Selvidge. She had five grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. She also had one unborn great-grandchild and one unborn great-great grandchild on the way. She was so excited to meet them.

We all LOVE and miss you so much, mom/grandma. Something she would say as her life was coming to an end was, “Don’t be sad for me, be happy, and celebrate my life, because I loved it!”

Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her.