In Passing – December 2025

Arlene M. Burkhardt

Arlene Marie Burkhardt, an OG resident of Sun Lakes, Ariz., passed away on Oct. 19, 2025, at the age of 91. Born on July 22, 1934, in Richfield, Wis., Arlene led a life marked by warmth, dedication, and love for her family and community.

Arlene graduated from Pittsville High School, where she laid the foundation for a life full of learning and engagement. She was married to Arthur “Art” F. Burkhardt, with whom she shared a loving family. Together, they raised three children: Jim, Doug, and Brad Burkhardt. Arlene’s legacy continues through her grandchildren, James, Kaitlyn, Joseph, and Jacob, as well as her great-grandchildren, Colton and Penelope. She is also survived by her brother, Arnie Holm. Arlene is preceded in passing by her beloved husband, Arthur “Art” Burkhardt, her son, James “Jim” Burkhardt, and her daughter, Nancy Wills.

Arlene had a passion for bowling and enjoyed playing cards with her friends at the Cottonwood clubhouse in Sun Lakes. Her vibrant spirit and love for these activities brought joy to those around her.

Arlene Marie Burkhardt will be fondly remembered by all who knew her. Her kindness, dedication, and love for her family will be deeply missed.

Services for Arlene are planned in the future in Machesney Park, Ill.

Pat Button

Our beloved Pat Button, 85, of Sun Lakes, Ariz., passed away peacefully at home with her family and loving husband of 62 years. She has left behind a lifetime of love, laughter, and wonderful memories. She is survived by her husband, Robert, their five children, eleven grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. Pat is also survived by her five brothers. Her dear twin sister passed earlier this year—a bond that will live on forever.

Pat had a zest for life and loved being active. For most of her life, she could often be found on the tennis court, out for a walk with her dogs, swimming, or playing cards with friends. She had a kind heart and loved giving back through her volunteer work at Hidden Treasures. Pat’s easy smile, quick wit, and caring nature made everyone around her feel welcome and loved.

A graveside service and celebration of life were held on Nov. 15 in Cottonwood, Ariz.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to your favorite charity in her honor.

Pat will be deeply missed, but her spirit, warmth, and love will live on in all of us.

Michael H. Core

Michael Howard Core was born on July 24, 1946, the son of Howard and Jeanne (McClintock) Core, who both preceded him in death. Mike passed away on Oct. 19, 2025. He is survived by Susan, his wife of 57 years; sons Brett (Jennifer) and Greg; grandson Jeremiah and granddaughter Macayla.

Mike grew up on a farm near Hume, Ohio, which he always said was the home of the Humans! He was a 1964 graduate of Wapakoneta (Ohio) High School where he played basketball for the Redskins and appeared in four high school musicals, including the lead male roles in Oklahoma and Annie Get Your Gun. His love of theatre and sports lived on throughout his life. He and Sue made annual pilgrimages to New York City to see several Broadway plays and musicals for many years. Mike was a lifelong Cincinnati Reds and Ohio State Buckeyes fan. It was a rare day when he wasn’t wearing a Reds or Buckeyes hat and/or logo shirt. Later Mike was heavily involved in Sun Lakes Senior Softball as a player, umpire, Board member, Officer, team sponsor, and club photographer.

Mike’s interest in journalism started while he was in high school when he landed a job as a sportswriter for the local newspaper. He later became the Assistant Sports Editor for the Bowling Green State University (BGSU) newspaper and a broadcaster for WBGU-FM, the college radio station. After graduating from BGSU, Mike was a high school teacher for five years prior to becoming General Manager and Editor of the St. Mary’s (OH) Evening Leader newspaper.

He expected to remain in journalism, but was recruited by Midwest Electric, Inc., a rural electrical co-op, to become their Member Services Advisor. This change in career path led to positions with the Ohio Rural Electrical Cooperatives, Buckeye Power, the Delaware (OH) Rural Co-op, the Indiana Statewide Association of Rural Electrical Cooperatives and finally to Big Rivers Electric Corporation, where he served as President & CEO for 10 years. Mike continued in a Board of Directors and consulting role for that company after his retirement.

Mike and Sue moved to Arizona shortly after his retirement and spent many years living the good life in the Valley of the Sun. A funeral service was held on Nov. 16 at the Valley of the Sun Mortuary. A Celebration of Life will be held later for friends and family back in Ohio.

Melville (Mel) L. Correa

Mel Correa passed away Oct. 7, 2025, on his 93rd birthday. He was a committed husband and father with a strong work ethic, which he passed on to his children. He loved his golf and was good at it. He was also a talented cook, as friends who attended their parties and card games could attest.

Mel was born in 1932 in Kapa’a, Kaua’i, to Floretta (Baptiste) and Marcellino Correa. He grew up in Honolulu and had vivid memories of the bombing of Pearl Harbor in 1941. He graduated from St. Louis School in 1950 and served three years in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. He was discharged in Riverside, Calif., where he met and fell in love with Rita Wulf, who he married in 1956. He pursued business education while working part time as a shoe salesman at Sears, a job he built into a 35-year career in retail management. He and Rita had six children born in four cities as he was transferred for job promotions.

Mel and Rita retired in 1993 to Sun Lakes, Ariz., where golf occupied much of his days. He spent years there volunteering for St. Steven’s Catholic Church, the homeowners association, and his golf club.

Mel is preceded in death by Rita, his wife of 63 years, and by his sister Floretta Nunes. He is survived by his children Deborah (Mark Wilson), Keith, Sheila Thompson (Steve), Matthew, Mark, and John, his brother Earl Patrick (Patty), and many grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org).

Sharon Becker Gale

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Sharon Becker Gale, age 85, on Oct. 7, 2025. Surrounded by her close family, she left behind a legacy of dedication, kindness, and artistic talent. Sharon was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, educator, and community volunteer whose life was marked by service and creativity.

Born in Harrisburg, Ill., in 1940, Sharon grew up in Springfield, Mo. Demonstrating exceptional talent and passion from a young age, she excelled in golf during her teenage years and had the opportunity to pursue a professional career. However, she chose to dedicate her life to education and service. She earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Education from the University of Missouri. During her college years, she was an active member of the Scholastic Honor Sorority Kappa Alpha and the social sorority Pi Beta Phi.

In 1962, Sharon responded to President John F. Kennedy’s call to service by becoming one of the first Peace Corps volunteers. She served in the Philippines for two years, contributing to community development and education. Her teaching career spanned over three decades, including 12 years specializing in Special Education. She retired from the El Paso Independent School District in Texas after 27 years of dedicated service, earning the distinction of being named “Teacher of the Year” twice.

Sharon’s commitment to service extended beyond her teaching career. She was actively involved with the Assistance League of El Paso and the Assistance League of the East Valley in Phoenix. Her leadership roles included serving as a member and on the executive board of the American Association of University Women of the East Valley, where she received two national art awards. She also volunteered at San Marcos Elementary School in Chandler for six years.

Travel was a significant passion for Sharon. She explored the world and United States, often aboard cruise ships. Her love for arts and crafts was evident in her creation of fanciful cards and dyed silk scarves, which she sold at various arts and crafts fairs. In Sun Lakes, she was an active member of the Lady Niners golf club, as well as participating in Mahjong and Bingo groups. Her artistic talents and generous nature extended to teaching art classes to friends and decorating for numerous club events.

Sharon is survived by her devoted husband of 40 years, Bruce Gale; her children, Shari Farah (Imad) and Dan Silsby (Marni); her grandsons, Cody Farah, Hayden Silsby, and Nate Silsby; her daughter-in-law, Julie Turner (Steve); and several cousins. Her life was characterized by her unwavering love for her family and friends, her dedication to education, and her vibrant artistic pursuits. Her legacy will continue through the lives she touched and the memories she created.

Francis “Frank” John Gaudioso Sr.

Francis “Frank” John Gaudioso Sr., a beloved resident of Sun Lakes, Ariz., passed away on Nov. 2, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on Oct. 20, 1941, in Winchester, Mass., Frank was a cherished individual known for his dedication and contributions throughout his life.

Frank served in the United States Armed Forces as a Sergeant and Radar Technician from 1961 to 1964. Following his military service, he pursued a successful career as an Engineer and became a Regional Director of Sales. He also had more than 40 years of service with Motorola and Qualcomm in engineering and sales.

He is survived by his son, Francis J. Gaudioso Jr., and daughter, Deirdre Anne Hammond. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Michael Hammond, Ariana Gaudioso, Tiana Gaudioso, and Giovanni Gaudioso, as well as his great-grandchildren, Charlotte Hammond, Jasper Baker, Evelyn Hammond, and Francis J. Gaudioso. Frank is also survived by his son-in-law, Billy Hammond, daughter-in-law, Amie Gaudioso, granddaughters-in-law, Jessica Hammond, Cassidy Gaudioso, and Paige Linnebur, and grandson-in-law, Erik Isaacson.

Frank was preceded in death by his wife of 49 years, Marcia Gaudioso, his parents, John and Angeline Gaudioso, and his sister, Carol Romboli.

A man of varied interests, Frank enjoyed golfing, playing racquetball, and was an avid collector of coins and clocks. He was also involved in his community through the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). He was a pet lover who had and loved many pets over the years, including his most recent pet, Missy, a well-loved Shih Tzu. He also worked tirelessly with the American Service Animals Society.

A memorial service was held at Valley of the Sun Mortuary & Cemetery on Nov. 13.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Service Animal Society in Frank’s memory.

Raymond Matthew Kramer

Raymond Matthew Kramer, a dedicated aerospace engineer, Marine veteran, and beloved family man, passed away on Oct. 19, 2025, in Coupeville, Wash., at the age of 93.

Born Nov. 25, 1931, in Chicago, Ill., Raymond’s life was marked by a deep commitment to service, innovation, and family. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the University of Illinois Champaign campus in 1952; a foundation that launched a remarkable career in aerospace engineering.

While completing his education, Raymond answered the call to serve his country. As a member of the Marine Reserve, he was called to active duty in 1950 and served for two years during the Korean War. His military service reflected the same sense of duty and precision that would later define his professional life.

Raymond’s engineering career spanned decades and included pivotal roles at both Lockheed, Aerojet General and Ford Aerospace. His work ranged from testing and designing aircraft to system engineering on rockets, interceptors, missiles, and solar energy projects. His contributions helped shape advancements in aeronautics and defense technology during a transformative era in American history.

In addition to his engineering accomplishments, Raymond was an Enrolled Agent with the IRS and worked as a personal tax preparer for over 50 years. His meticulous nature and dedication made him a trusted advisor to many over the decades.

Beyond his professional achievements, Raymond embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity. He held an ASEL pilot’s license and maintained a lifelong passion for aviation. He found joy in camping and fishing, especially trout fishing in the Sierra’s; a pastime lovingly introduced to him by his wife Bonnie of 68 years. An avid swimmer and enthusiastic traveler, he also cherished Sunday champagne brunches as one of life’s simple pleasures.

Raymond is survived by his devoted wife Bonnie; daughters Arleen, Denise, and Melinda; son Matthew; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. His legacy lives on through them and through all who were touched by his wisdom and warmth.

He was preceded in death by his parents Matthew and Catherine Kramer and his sister Aileen Myers.

A funeral service will be held at Sunnyside Cemetery in Coupeville, Wash.

May Raymond’s memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to those who follow in his path of service, intellect, and love for life.

Cynthia I. (Grusczynski) Krasucki

Cynthia I. (Grusczynski) Krasucki, 76, of Gaylord, Mich., passed away on Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025. Cindy was born in Grayling, Mich., on Sept. 9, 1949. She was the daughter of Joseph T. Grusczynski and Ramona Gocha Grusczynski.

Cindy graduated from St. Mary High School, Gaylord, in 1967. She went on to earn a M.A. in Languages from Wayne State University in Detroit, Mich. Cindy was proficient in English, French, Spanish, and Italian. She went on to teach these languages at Wayne State University, various colleges, and high schools. Cindy taught for more than 30 years. The majority of her teaching career was at Marian High School in Bloomfield Hills, Mich.

Cindy was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother (Gooda). Cindy is survived by her husband, Stanislao (Stan), of more than 53 years, son Nicholas Krasucki, and grandson Jace Krasucki. Siblings: Jan Lewandowski, Rita (Greg Romej) Lindahl, Joseph (Eva) Grusczynski, and Connie (John) Hunter. Sister–in–law Angela Krasucki Delsero and brother–in–law Ricardo (Vanesa) Krasucki, and numerous nieces and nephews. Cindy was preceded in death by her parents, daughter Nina Krasucki, sister Phyllis Roberts, and brothers–in–law James Lewandowski, Craig Roberts, and Gian Paolo Delsero.

Cindy and Stan retired on Big Lake in Gaylord. Cindy loved watching the sun rise while drinking coffee on her deck. She loved to watch her grandson swim from their dock to the island and back.

Cindy and Stan escaped the Gaylord snow by spending the winter in Sun Lakes, Ariz. She enjoyed her time there by hiking, swimming, and playing Mahjong with her friends.

Cindy was a social butterfly, always on the go! She was an incredible cook, helped anyone in need, and always knew how to make you laugh with her great sense of humor.

A memorial service with a Celebration of Life will be held in late spring of 2026.

Donations in her memory can be made to either St. Mary Cathedral School in Gaylord or Marian High School in Bloomfield Hills, Mich.

Randy Norton

Randy Norton passed away peacefully on Oct. 1, 2025, at his home in Sun Lakes surrounded by his loving family and under the care of Holy Cross Hospice.

Randy was born in Lansing, Mich., on April 10, 1945, to the late Robert and Marion Norton. He is survived by his loving wife Kathy of 58 years. He was a proud father of sons Chad Norton and Todd Norton and daughter-in-law Stacy Norton. Grandchildren Samuel, Ryan, Benjamin, Tyler and Jayden. Brother Ron and sister-in-law Lynn.

He was a journeyman electrician. In 1981 moved to Arizona and worked as an Electrical Foreman for The Arizona Republic newspapers for 25 years. After an early retirement he started his own home inspecting business—Looking Glass Home Inspections.

Randy loved his Catholic Faith and was a proud fourth degree member of the Knights of Columbus. He served as both a Faithful Navigator and several leadership positions through his 20 years as a Knight. He loved the outdoors and spent many years with his photography, motorcycles, and off-road adventures with his Jeep. He loved football and cheered for the Green Bay Packers.

He fought a long battle with prostate cancer but always kept a positive outlook. Randy had a smile that warmed the hearts of many. He will be deeply missed.

He is in the Arms of His Loving God and we hold him always in our hearts.

Services were held at St. Timothy Catholic Church and interment was at Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery.

The family of Randy wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Holy Cross Hospice and No Place Like Home Care.

Lawrence Francis “Larry” Scaringelli

Lawrence Francis “Larry” Scaringelli, 59, of Chandler, Ariz., passed away peacefully on Oct. 19, 2025, after a courageous battle with ALS. Born on March 31, 1966, in New York, N.Y., Larry lived a life defined by passion, generosity, and joy. He was the beloved son of Harriette Scaringelli and the late Lawrence Scaringelli, a devoted father to his cherished daughters, Kaitlin and Nicole Scaringelli, and a loving brother to Janeen Scaringelli, her husband Rich, and his nephew Lukas.

Larry’s larger-than-life spirit and warmth touched everyone he met. A true lover of life, he was the heartbeat of every gathering—known for his infectious laugh, quick wit, and signature cigar in hand. He had an extraordinary ability to make others feel welcome, to turn strangers into friends, and to leave every person he encountered smiling.

A brilliant and dedicated attorney, Larry earned his Juris Doctor and built a respected career marked by intellect, integrity, and compassion. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he brought people together through his many passions. He was a Harley rider with the soul of an adventurer, an avid traveler who found peace on the open water, and a proud cofounder of the Saturday Sandbaggers—a group that embodied his zest for camaraderie, and good times.

Larry was also a true connoisseur of life’s pleasures—a wine enthusiast, cigar aficionado, and self-proclaimed foodie who believed every meal was an opportunity to celebrate. Whether cruising the seas, enjoying a glass of wine with friends, or spending time with family around the dinner table, Larry treasured life’s simple and shared moments most of all.

Above all, Larry was a family man. He adored his daughters and was immensely proud of the women they have become. To his mother, sister, and countless friends, he was a steady source of love, laughter, and inspiration. His heart was immense, his presence unforgettable, and his legacy eternal.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Dec. 27, 2025, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Grill on the Green, 550 W. Champagne Dr., Chandler, AZ, 85248. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to ALS Arizona in Larry’s memory.

Larry would want those who knew him to keep smiling—because, as he always said, “Smile, people wonder what you’re up to.”

Carole Rosylie Weiner

Carole Rosylie Weiner, 82, of Sun Lakes, Ariz., passed away peacefully at home on Oct. 29, 2025, surrounded by her beloved husband, son, and daughter.

Born and raised near Philadelphia, Carole later moved to New York, where she married the love of her life, Howard Weiner. Almost nearly 60 years together, they raised two children and eventually retired to Arizona to enjoy the sunshine and a slower pace.

Carole is survived by her husband, Howard Weiner of Sun Lakes; her children, Harlan Roberts (Janna) of Scottsdale and Laurie Thivierge (Troy) of Gilbert; and her cherished grandchildren—Justin, Olivia, Hayden, Nathan, and Allie—who brought her endless pride and joy.

A devoted wife, mother, and loyal friend, Carole worked at the BOCES Teacher Center and volunteered as an EMT with the local ambulance corps for more than 25 years. Her lifelong love of animals began as a champion trick horseback rider in her youth and continued through later years competing in dog agility and supporting animal rescues. Over her lifetime, she welcomed 18 rescue dogs into her home and helped many more find families of their own.

Practical, determined, and always willing to lend a hand, Carole approached life with purpose and generosity—whether volunteering, spending time with friends, or sailing the world on Royal Caribbean cruises. She was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by all who were fortunate to know her.

Donations in Carole’s memory may be made to the Arizona Humane Society (azhumane.org) or the Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org).

Ruby Witcraft

Our dear friend and neighbor Ruby Witcraft passed away Aug. 12, 2025. Born May 18, 1928, Ruby lived an active life to the golden age of 97.

She was a longtime resident of Sun Lakes and served her community well. Over the years, one position she worked was as a security guard for HOA2. She enjoyed writing and had much of her prose published in the Splash.

Ruby was a very strong woman. She swam every day, drove her golf cart to Bashas’ for groceries, and loved playing solitaire online. She lost her husband, Don, in 2006 and lived independently, as she wished, in their home until her passing.

This photo of her was taken on her 97th birthday on May 18, 2025.

RIP Ruby, you will be forever missed and not forgotten.