Douglas Bruce Baker
Douglas Bruce Baker was born on the family farm near Peterson, Iowa, on June 6, 1933, to Wayne and Nelda Baker. After graduating from high school, he attended Iowa State University where he graduated in 1954 with a degree in Farm Management, with the intent of returning to the family farm. While in college, he married his high school sweetheart and joined the Air Force ROTC. After discovering his love for flying and experiencing the world outside Peterson, Iowa, he decided to forgo farming and instead continued in the Air Force. He became a pilot, learning to fly in the A-6 Texan, obtained his multi-engine rating in the B-25 Mitchell, and flew various transport planes as well. During this time, Doug and Shirley started their family and had three children, all while moving frequently around the country. They were also stationed for two-and–a–half years in Okinawa, where he flew the Grumman Albatross on air rescue missions. After serving 11 years of active duty, he continued to serve in the Air Force Reserve for an additional 10 years, retiring with the rank of Lt. Colonel. He went to work for United Airlines in 1966 based in Chicago. In 1969 he moved his family to Santa Rosa, Calif., where they stayed until after his retirement from United in 1994 as Captain on the Boeing 747.
Doug had many passions, one of which was his 21’ Sea Ray boat. He spent many hours fishing for salmon, striped bass, and sturgeon in the San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean west of Bodega Bay, as well as water ski and camping trips with the family. He devoted his time to his community and kids, even becoming David’s Scoutmaster where he led the troop on many adventures.
After the kids left the nest, Doug became an avid golfer and thoroughly enjoyed playing with family and friends. He also loved woodworking and tinkering in his shop. In fact, it seemed like he could build and fix anything. He passed this skill on to his kids and grandkids by helping them make wooden toys, go karts, Pinewood Derby cars, playhouses, and countless other gadgets. He was always there to lend a hand with numerous home projects and renovations to friends and loved ones.
After retiring from United at age 61, he spent several years volunteering at their church in Santa Rosa as head of the facilities, almost on a full-time basis. He continued serving his community after moving to Sun Lakes Oakwood in 2004. There, he became involved in the Sun Lakes Rotary Club, receiving many awards for his service (and even managing Splash deliveries for several years!). He was active at Risen Savior Lutheran Church and also spent these years as an incredibly loving and devoted husband, caring for his beloved Shirley as she battled Parkinson’s disease until her death in 2016. They were married for 63 years.
Doug had a friendly smile and kind words to everyone he met. He loved God with all his heart and passed along that faith to his grateful family. He left this earth on June 20, 2025, to be in the arms of His Savior. He is survived by his three children, 10 grandchildren, and 22 great-grandchildren, and will be dearly missed.
Lyndell (Lynn) Bushnell
It is with heavy hearts that we share news of the passing of Lyndell (Lynn) Bushnell, who went to be with the Lord on July 14 at the age of 82 years old, surrounded by loved ones.
Born on July 10, 1943, in Hillview, Ill., Lynn lived a life marked by kindness and integrity. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great–grandfather, encourager, counselor, and so much more. His purpose in them all remained the same, to love people and show them the love of Jesus. Lynn was known for his strong work ethic, his deep love for his family, and his ability to make others feel seen and valued.
He was a man of many hats. A truck driver, worked at Hostess, a steel mill, a yarn factory, a butcher at Swift Meats, a manager of Maxmors in Sterling, owner and manager of Swirl & Curl Beauty Salon, and a taxidermist. He was appointed by the Governor to be on the advisory board for agriculture for the state of Arizona. He was a beloved beekeeper, State and National Honey Queen judge. Lynn was owner and operator of Natures Nectar Gourmet Honey Co. He enjoyed so many hobbies, including fishing, woodworking, storytelling, crafting of all sorts, and he never turned down the opportunity to lend a helping hand or share a laugh.
He is survived by his wife, Shirley, of 62 years, his children Tammy Markovich, Kevin Bushnell (Kristin), and Sherri Colter (Chris), and 10 grandkids and 13 great–grandkids who he adored with his heart and soul.
His love for Jesus was strong and he loved to tell everyone his testimony of seeing Jesus. We know that when he took his last breath here on earth and was ushered into the waiting arms of Jesus, he heard the words “well done, thy good and faithful servant.”
There are no words that will ever do justice to the kind of man he was, and no words to describe how deeply his absence will be missed on this earth. Though he is no longer physically with us, Lynn’s love, values, and legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him. He filled the roles of many things to many people, but to his family he was everything. The patriarch, the backbone, the glue, and he filled every role perfectly.
James R. (Rob) Calhoun
Rob was born on July 8,1941 in Owensboro, Ky. to the late Everett Calhoun and Pauline Payne-Calhoun. He was also preceded in death by brothers Rev. Gerald “Jerry” Calhoun, Sherrell Calhoun, James Henry Calhoun, Julian Calhoun and sisters Juanita Riney, Lucy Sthrel, and Martha Warren. He passed away June 23, 2025.
Rob attended Catholic grade school, high school, and college in Owensboro, Ky. After college he moved to Arizona where he was employed as Director of Restaurant Sales for a national bakery company. Through connections made there he purchased a fast food restaurant operation in Albuquerque, N.M. He grew that first business to five restaurants, a restaurant equipment sales and rental company and a Coca–Cola Distributing Company. Rob’s final venture was a Business Brokerage and Commercial Real Estate Company in Albuquerque, N.M. Rob had a love of boating, fishing, and traveling in his RV.
Rob was past President of the Evening Optimist Club of Albuquerque where he received an award for Optimist of the Year and was awarded as Life Member to Optimist International. He was also past President of ASEGA (Albuquerque Sales and Economic Growth Association) and he was a member of the EAGA (Executive Association of Greater Albuquerque) and a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus at St. Juan Diego Catholic Church in Chandler, Ariz.
He is survived by his wife Margie Moore-Calhoun, daughters Kathy Morris (Jerry) of Mesa, Ariz., Christy Calhoun-Anderson (David) of Albuquerque, N.M., Cindy Calhoun of Albuquerque, N.M., and sons Tim Calhoun of Albuquerque, N.M., Daniel Calhoun (Christina) of Prescott, Ariz., and Sean Calhoun (Melissa) of Albuquerque, N.M., and three grandchildren, Cassie Kaplan, Payton Calhoun, and Lennon Calhoun.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Knights of Columbus, Father Louis Anthony Sigman Council 16277 St. Juan Diego Catholic Church, 3200 S. Cooper Rd., Chandler, AZ 85286.
Arrangements were made by Whitney & Murphy Bueler Mortuary, and a service was held July 11, 2025, at St. Juan Diego Catholic Church followed by a reception at Iron Oaks Country Club in Sun Lakes.
Steven Jerry Campbell
With heavy hearts, we announce the unexpected passing of Steven Jerry Campbell, who left us on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at the age of 66. He passed away peacefully at home, doing what he loved most—cheering on his lifetime favorite Seattle Mariners.
Born on July 22, 1958, Steve was the beloved son of the late Geraldine and William “Rusty” Campbell. A proud graduate of Bothell High School, he remained deeply connected to his community and devoted to his family throughout his life.
Steve is survived by his loving sisters: Susan, Mary, and Carol. He was a devoted uncle to Craig, Staci, Tara, Molly, and Jake, and a proud great-uncle to Tyler, Nick, Kaitlyn, Sam, Amelia, Jane, and Eloise. His warm heart, quick wit, and easygoing spirit touched the lives of all who knew him.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, Steve’s passion for the Seattle Mariners, Seattle Seahawks, and a well-played round of golf was legendary. His love for the game ran deep—so much so that it wasn’t unusual to hear him yelling at the TV during a tight play or bad call. Whether at a game, on the golf course, or just talking stats with family, his joy and passion was unmistakable—and contagious.
He will be remembered for his loyalty, his sense of humor, and the quiet, meaningful ways he showed love through presence and kindness. Steve’s absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
A private family service will be held to honor his life. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations in Steve’s name to a local youth sports organization or a charity of your choice.
Jack Paul Epps
Jack Paul Epps passed away on July 18, 2025, in Imperial Beach, Calif., at the age of 94.
Jack was born in Des Moines, Iowa, on May 25, 1931. He graduated from East High School in Des Moines in 1950 and served in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. On August 29, 1954, he married Doris Baird in Des Moines.
His professional career spanned 30 years in pharmaceutical sales, primarily with Bristol-Myers Squibb. Throughout his career, Jack was recognized twice with the Go Getter Award for outstanding sales performance. An accomplished athlete, he excelled as a high school champion wrestler and later as an avid tennis player. After retiring with Doris to Sun Lakes, Arizona, in 1993, he became an active member of Cottonwood Country Club, where he dedicated time to tennis, social engagements, and cultivating lifelong friendships.
He is survived by his loving children, Dianne and her husband Art in Imperial Beach, Calif., and John in Phoenix, Ariz. He is also adored by his two grandsons, Kit (along with his wife Kasey and daughter Sloane) and Blake, both residing in Imperial Beach. Jack’s family also includes his younger sister Joyce of Phoenix and his partner Sandra of Sun Lakes, Ariz.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Gladys; his wife, Doris; and his sister Darlene.
Jack is remembered for his outgoing personality, wit, charisma, and his passion for spending quality time with family and friends. An engaging storyteller, he brought joy to gatherings through his love of music and dance.
The family invites donations to honor Jack’s memory to the United States Tennis Association Foundation for young athlete development at ustafoundation.com. The family would also like to sincerely thank his caregivers for their dedication and compassionate care.
Patricia Earline Nielsen
Patricia “Pat” Earline Nielsen passed away on July 14, 2025, at the age of 96. Prior to residing in Sun Lakes and Chandler, Ariz., Pat was a longtime resident of Lakeside, Calif.
She was born in Brownwood, Texas, on July 12, 1929. Pat graduated from Grossmont High School in El Cajon, Calif. She married Ralph Nielsen on Aug. 24, 1947, in El Cajon and later worked as an instructional assistant at Grossmont High School for many years.
Pat was a member of the Lakeside, California Historical Society and had a passion for her family and friends, food—especially strawberry ice cream, and fun.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Nielsen, and her brother, Robert Walker. Pat is survived by her children: daughter, Diana (Randy) Moore; sons, Randy Nielsen and Jack (Clarice) Nielsen; grandchildren: Tyson Smith, Heather O’Connell, Jennifer Mora, and Jay Nielsen; great–grandchildren, Samantha and Jackson Mora, and Jolie Nielsen.
A Celebration of Life for Pat was held on Aug. 6, 2025. Pat’s tribute page is at valleyofthesunfuneralhome.com.
William John “Bill” Osterhoudt
William John Osterhoudt, 81, of Sun Lakes (Az.) very sadly passed from life, after a long and trying struggle with COPD, at the Chandler (Az.) Regional Medical Center in the early evening of Friday, July 4, 2025. He was born in Hackensack, New Jersey to Rita Elizabeth Wilmarth Osterhoudt and Clarence Burns Osterhoudt on July 11, 1943 and he spent his early life mainly in Scranton and State College, Pennsylvania.
As a young man, Bill came to a great affection for (and a notable competency in) rock-and-roll music, jitterbug dancing, recreational roller skating, and serious sport (most significantly, baseball). Although he did not attend the Pennsylvania State University, he came to admire it very deeply and to develop an especially keen allegiance to it, most particularly to its luminous sporting aspects. He graduated from State College High School in 1961 and served honorably in the U.S. Army for three years (1961-1964).
In his adult years, Bill made a large success of himself in business, principally in entrepreneurial projects. He was especially adept at identifying unfilled spaces in the marketplace and filling those spaces with fertile commercial opportunities. He was nonetheless a restless soul and did sundry forms of work throughout his life; he was not content doing much of anything in particular, with anyone in particular, or living anywhere in particular for longer than brief times. Variously, in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Georgia, Massachusetts, Florida, Arizona, Washington, D.C., Texas, Oklahoma, and Ohio, he sold printing supplies and services, automobiles, radio advertising, and banking products; he founded and managed a night club, a communications firm, a wig shop, an automobile repair garage, a ground-delivery service, a small real-estate agency, and a large over-the-road transportation company (with 60 semi-trucks); he served with distinction as the Executive Vice-president for Marketing with a prominent air-courier firm and was the Freight Manager of a substantial logistics corporation. Bill retired to Florida, New Mexico, and Arizona in 2001; he became an apt golfer; and he worked frequently as a certified official of baseball, softball, football, and wrestling competitions.
A memorial service honoring Bill will be held at Clarendale of Chandler, 5900 S. Gilbert Rd., Chandler, AZ 85249 on Saturday, October 11, 10:00 A.M. All are welcome. A full obituary may be found at both www.sunlakessplash.com/in-passing and www.bunkerfuneral.com.
Gary Rubenstein
Gary Rubenstein passed away peacefully in his sleep on Aug. 4, 2025, from age and Alzheimer’s-related complications. He was 86 years old.
Born on Oct. 12, 1938, at Sacred Heart Hospital in Eugene, Ore., Gary had lived the last 23 years in Arizona, but was forever an Oregon Duck. He attended Edison and Dunn elementary, Wilson Junior High, and graduated from the then brand-new Eugene High School, as a member of the first class in 1956. He attended the University of Oregon for his freshman and sophomore years, but graduated in 1960 from the University of Southern California. Gary also served in the Oregon National Guard from 1961–68.
Gary married Eileen Charkow on Sept. 2, 1962, and they shared 61 wonderful years together until her death in 2024. Gary is survived by his son, Greg, two grandchildren, Isaac and Eve, and two younger brothers, Larry and Joe. Besides Eileen, Gary was preceded in death by his daughter, Lynda, in 2016, as well as her son, Kenya Hadjouti, in 2023. Gary’s older brother, Robert, also died in 2016.
Although he worked in the family furniture business after graduating with his bachelor’s degree, he was an entrepreneur at heart, and owned/operated several successful small businesses in Eugene for decades, including the Plane Travelers Shoppe at the Eugene Airport, as well as The Fifth Street Greenery, in the Fifth Street Public Market.
Both Eileen and Gary were very active in Eugene Kid Sports programs, sponsoring and coaching basketball, baseball and softball teams, and in 1977–78, Gary served as president of Eugene Kids Sports.
Gary and Eileen also enjoyed University of Oregon sports and were season ticket holders for basketball and football, and Gary was also an avid track fan, volunteering as an official at numerous Oregon and Olympic Trials track and field events.
In 2003, Gary and Eileen retired and moved to Chandler, Ariz., to be near their children and grandchildren. In Arizona Gary attended and graduated from the Maricopa County Judicial training program and was appointed as a Hearing Officer for both Civil Traffic Court and Small Claims Court, and served these courts for the next 10 years, retiring in 2018. Also in 2018, Gary and Eileen moved from Chandler to the Sun Lakes retirement community, where he lived until moving into Parkland Memory Care in 2024.
In lieu of flowers, please honor Gary with a donation in his memory to the HonorHealth Neuroscience Institute at: HonorHealthFoundation.org/Alzheimers.