Obituaries

Jacqueline (Ann) Thacker, 97, of Sun City passed away peacefully on September 18, 2023, under the care of The Gardens of Sun City Assisted Living and Hospice of the West. Ann was born to Chester Dean Graham and Vivian Marie Dison-Patterson, April 3, 1926, in Toledo, Ohio. She married Dallas Thacker on February 14, 1950. They celebrated 49 yrs. of marriage before Dallas’ passing on August 29, 1999. Ann was a charter member of Calvary United Methodist church, Phoenix, AZ where she served on many committees, taught Sunday school and was a charter member of the U.M. Women. She later became a member of the First United Methodist Church of Sun City, AZ after moving to Sun City. Ann raised 3 children, Roger, Carolyn and Dallas Dean. Ann worked for Spring City Knitting, Glendale, AZ for 19 years. She was an exceptional seamstress that enjoyed sewing for all her family members (immediate and extended) along with friends and various organizations. She was passionate about her religion and enjoyed giving to and helping others. Ann also served as a volunteer for 16 years at Boswell Hospital. She is survived by sister, Jean Marie Graham, Kingman, AZ, daughter, Carolyn Ann Linde-Jelinek of Sun City, AZ and son Dallas Dean Thacker of Clearwater, FL, grandchildren Joshua Linde, Jessica Thacker and Rebekah Lacer. 4 great grandchildren Alexander, Kaiden, Alek Kai and Aden. She is proceeded in death by husband Dallas and son Roger Franklin Thacker.Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the American Bible Society, New York, NY or the Wesley Community & Health, Phoenix, AZ.

Xavier Mario Diaz, age 31, passed away on September 17, 2023. He was a beloved son, brother, uncle, boyfriend, mentor, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Xavier was born on June 17, 1992, in Phoenix, where he spent all his years.  Xavier loved to watch sports and loved to help people, because of this he became a mentor for many at his job doing outreach to his local community at the Phoenix Rescue Mission. He would share his testimony to anybody who would listen and was proud of his sobriety and his path to finding Christ. Throughout his career, he was known for his hard work, dedication, and passion for helping others. He would spend most of his time either at church or reading his bible and was a big believer in Christ.  More than anything, Xavier was a devoted Son, Brother, Uncle (Tio), and boyfriend. He was an amazing son. He would call his father, Mario Diaz, nearly every day just to talk and catch up on current sporting events and talk about their lives and how their day is going. He was always there for his sister, Gina, whenever she needed him. He was a man who never said no. He always found a way to help with anything if someone needed it. He loved spending time with his nieces and nephews, sharing stories, playing games, and watching their favorite TV shows. He would spontaneously show up and offer to take them out to have fun. He would take them to the zoo, bowling, the movies, sporting events, and even birthday parties. He was always there to offer guidance, support, and encouragement, no matter what challenges they faced.In his free time, Xavier enjoyed spending time with his girlfriend, Maria, they would go to sporting events together, go fishing, and go out to eat. Xavier was always eager to share his knowledge and enthusiasm with others. He was an active member of his community, volunteering for various causes and organizations. Xavier is survived by his Father, Mario; Sisters, Iris, Carmen, Diana, Lillian, and Gina; and his brother, Felix. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him. Family and friends are invited to attend the visitation held at Menke Funeral Home, 12420 N. 103rd avenue, Sun City AZ 85351, on Saturday, September 30, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. A Funeral Service will follow at 12:00 p.m., provided by Redemption Arcadia Church where Xavier loved attending. A reception will follow the service for anyone who wishes to stay and continue sharing memories of Xavier. The services will be casual attire. For those who really knew Xavier know he was full of happiness and joy and we want to try and honor that during this difficult time by not making this about sorrows, but joy for all the lives he has touched and the impact he has made on everyone he knew.

Romilda Vail passed away on September 16, 2023 at the age of 96. She worked at a Secretary to the Department of Defense for many years.She leaves behind her nieces, Nancy Miller of San Antonio, Texas, Jeanette Lewis of West Virginia, and Jonell Nelson of Austin, Texas; nephews, Bill Vail of Colorado, Keith Robert Vail of San Antonio, Texas and Marion Dean (Sandi) Kershew of Sherman, Texas; as well as may great and double great nieces and nephews.Romilda is preceded in death by her sister, Olivetti Shelton; and brothers, Carl Joseph, Jr, Robert Keith.She was laid to rest at Sunland Memorial Park in Sun City, Arizona.

William D. Trimble, 84, of Sun City, AZ passed away, peacefully, on September 12, 2023, under the care of Desert Valley Hospice, Orange Garden Assisted Living and his family. He had fought with Dementia and other age-related health issues for many years. William was born to Maurice F. Trimble and Eula L. (Cook) Trimble, February 7, 1939. He was a former member of Malta United Methodist Church in Malta, OH. He married his love Mary Ann (Patterson) Trimble on June 19, 1960. They celebrated their 63rd Anniversary earlier this year. William served in the US Air Force then worked for Ohio Power/American Electric Power (AEP) for 34 years before retiring. He is survived by wife, Mary Ann (Patterson) Trimble of Sun City, AZ, brother, Gary (Jan) Trimble of Duncan Falls, OH, son, Craig A (Michelle) Trimble of Queen Creek, AZ, son Jeffrey Trimble of Beauford, NC, 5 grandchildren, Tasha, Tessa, Olivia, Christopher, and Ashleigh, and 4 great grandchildren, Zander, Zoey, Lareece, and Gracianna. He is proceeded in death by his parents and sister Kathryn. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Desert Valley Hospice, Dementia, or Diabetes Societies of your choice. 

Edwina M. Crosby, 95, of Sun City, AZ, passed away September 9th, 2013. She was born, December 17, 1927 in Concord, New Hampshire to Cleophas and Mary Mayo. She and William E. Crosby were married September 9th, 1947 in Concord, New Hampshire. She and Bill had been married for 56 years when he passed away on April 10th, 2003. She passed away on what would have been their 76th Anniversary. She raised 9 children between 1948 and 1984. Dana A. Crosby & Elise Warren of Sun City West, AZ, Sister Judith Ann Crosby O.S.C. of Great Falls, MT, David E. (Mary) Crosby of Cave Creek, AZ, Donald W. Crosby of Scottsdale, AZ, Dennis W. (Joy-Marie) Crosby of Surprise, AZ, Douglas R. Crosby (Deceased), Daniel E. (Joan) Crosby of Leesburg, FL, Dale E. (Gayle) Crosby of Surprise, AZ, and Jennifer M. Crosby of El Mirage, AZ. 16 Grandchildren and 11 Great Grandchildren. Edwina was an accomplished seamstress and a prolific Quilter. She was also an avid Golfer and a lifelong member of the Catholic Daughters of America.Viewing will be 9/24 (1p-4p) at Menke Funeral Home in Sun City, Arizona. Funeral Services will be held on 9/25 (10am) at St. Joachim and St. Anne Catholic Church in Sun City, Arizona.In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Hospice of the Valley or to Catholic Daughters of America.

No obituary is available at this time.

Bruce Vernon Dettloff of Sun City passed away on August 26, 2023 at the age of 75 after a long courageous battle with Cancer. He proudly served in the United States Navy. Bruce worked many years working Tandem and Motorola. He enjoyed singing karaoke and acting in his retirement years. Bruce leaves behind his daughter, Andrea (Stephen) Tramutolo; mother, Ruth Dettloff; brothers, Brent (Lisa) Dettloff and Brad Dettloff; three grandsons, David Carrillo, Aaron and Samuel Tramutolo; and one great-granddaughter, Hayley Carrillo.In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his name to Hospice of the Valley in Phoenix, Arizona.

James Alan Steving passed away on August 25, 2023 at the age of 78 from his bout with cancer at the Sun City Health & Rehabilitation Center. He was a successful businessman for many years in the meat industry. He enjoyed playing pool with friends and especially with his son Jimmy, who has passed. Earlier in life, he enjoyed racing speed boats.He was born to Walter and Rita Steving on March 14, 1945. A few years out of high school in 1966, he enlisted in the United States Army and served as Sergeant in Vietnam, where he received numerous medals including; the Bronze Star; Air Medal; Army Commendation Medal; Presidential Citation; and Unit Citation. James was then honorable discharged.James is survived by his sister, Constance Steving; 3 children, Terry, James, and Kari; nephews, Rick and Tyler; as well as grandchildren.Preceding him in death was his loving wife, Catherine, who passed away on June 21, 2023. His sister, Jane Daniels, who passed away in 2014. His son, James Jr "Jimmy" who passed away in 2015.Relatives and friends are invited to attend the graveside service held on September 8, 2023 at 9:30 a.m. at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 23029 N Cave Creek Road, Phoenix, AZ 85024.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Disabled Veterans of America.

On November 22nd, 1943 the world became a little brighter when Loretta Tintori was born to Paul and Rose Greco.Loretta resided in Youngtown, AZ but spent most of her life in Elmwood Park and Bolingbrook, IL.Loretta whom was a daughter, wife and loving mother passed away peacefully on Friday, August 25, 2023. The day God called her home.She was preceded in death by her husband Ronald Tintori and her parents Paul and Rose Greco. Surviving are her sons Ken, John, Richard and daughter Lisa. She is also survived by her siblings Jim and John, JoAnne, Patricia and Michael as well as nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great grandchildren.Loretta was fine lady and full of faith and love for the Lord and his word.

Trula W. Comfort, 96, passed away August 25, 2023. She is survived by daughter Lavonna Jayne (Claudio) Infusino of Cottonwood, AZ; Fred Wayne (Sharon) Comfort of Goodyear, AZ; daughter Rebecca Elayne (Tommy) Grantland of Gun Barrel City, TX. Four grandsons: John (Christine) Stern of N. Aurora, IL; Jay (Heather) Grantland of Hurst, TX; “Beau” (Therese) Grantland of New York City, NY; Christopher Infusino of San Francisco, CA. Six great granddaughters: Kelly, Brittany & Trinity Stern of Illinois; Camryn & Courtney Grantland of Texas; Audrey Grantland of New York. Trula worked for Arizona Public Service as a secretary for close to 21 years. Upon her retirement in 1989, she and her husband, Dick, moved to Black Canyon City, AZ. They traveled across the U.S. towing their travel trailer and visiting many beautiful places.  Several summers were spend on the St. Joe River in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Many Comfort family members from Oregon & Idaho shared time with them there. Dick entertained the campers playing guitar and singing, while Trula worked part-time as a waitress at the local lodge, helping to cover expenses so they could stay on the river most of the summer. The family is planning a memorial service in mid-October at Menke Funeral Home in Sun City. Menke is also handling the private cremation arrangements. In lieu of flowers the family requests contributions to Lakeview United Methodist Church of Sun City, AZ.

William H. Grams of Sun City West, AZ; Tucson, AZ; Cherokee Village, AR and formerly of Horicon, and Milwaukee, WI passed away August 24th, 2023 at Brookhaven Assisted Living Facility in Surprize, AZ. He was born on November 11, 1940 in Horicon, WI to Harry and Olive (Kiekhaefer) Grams. He was baptized on December 8th, 1940 at St. Stephens Lutheran Church in Horicon. Sponsors were: Edwin Grams, George Nehring and Rose Haas(e). Bill was confirmed in his Lutheran faith on April 11th, 1954. He was a three-sport athlete in high school playing: football and basketball and running track. Bill married his high school sweetheart, Beverley Ann Tesch of Horicon and subsequently moved to Milwaukee to work at A.O. Smith, a manufacturer of automobile and truck frames. Bill enjoyed playing sheepshead, camping with his family, playing softball and traveling to visit family. He also worked as a referee for high school football and basketball games in his spare time. He retired from A.O Smith after working there his whole adult life and moved to Cherokee Village, AR several years later. He and Bev split their retirement years, living between Arkansas and Tucson, Arizona. They enjoyed time with friends in both states, traveling, and hosting family get-togethers. The pair shared a love of hiking trails in State Parks around the country. Bill was a lifelong church-goer and supporter of Wisconsin Synod Churches. His generosity [in part] led to the building of the new Early Childhood center at Cross of Glory Lutheran School and Preschool in Peoria, AZ.  Survivors include, sons Michael L. Grams and wife Sue Ann (nee Hess) of Big Bend, WI and Timothy H. Grams and wife Brenda K. (nee Schmidt) of Sun City West, AZ; Sister Kay Schepp and husband Jerry of Horicon, WI; 6 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; many cousins, nieces and nephews.. Bill was preceded in death by his son, Neal Anthony, in January of 1994; by a sister, Yvonne Pieper, in 1996; and by his wife, Beverley in January, 2016. A memorial service will be held on September 15th, 2023 at Cross of Glory Lutheran Church in Peoria, AZ at 5:30 pm. Memorials may be given to St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church in Horicon, WI; a State Park of your choice, or The Cross of Glory building fund.

Esther Irene NedellaEsther Irene Nedella of Sun City, Az passed away on August 24th, 2023. Esther was born on December 29th, 1929, in Newell South Dakota. Esther was one of 5 children born to Frank and Ruth Martin. She was preceded in death by her parents and three sisters and a brother. Surviving family members include Lynn Nedella, Tana Reschke, (Robert), Rick Nedella; Grandchildren Tara (Chris) Bobic, Brent (Nicole) Nedella, Erica (Steve) Ferrari, Patricia (Tom) Plum, Jordan Nedella (Emilee Engelbretson); Great-Grandchildren Tanner & Colton Bobic, Addison & Asher Plum, Jesse & Roxy Nedella, Leah & Henry Ferrari. Sister Lorraine Schmidt.Esther was born in Newell, South Dakota and raised on a farm. Matt & Esther were married in 1950. They enjoyed 63 years of marriage together before Matt passed away. She was the mother of three and a military wife. They moved to Phoenix in 1956 where she found employment with Sperry and retired after 30 years. They moved to Bullhead City in 1986 and eventually returned to Phoenix in 2004 to be close to their family.Living in Sun City Esther had many friends and enjoyed many activities. Her favorite activity was water aerobics. She also was a member of the Red Hat Society and loved knitting and crocheting. She was always active in the grandkids and great grand kids lives. She was always positive and had a smile that would light up a room. She was loved by many and will be missed by more. Rest in peace Mom, We love you and miss you already!

Armando Silva Rubal of Sun City, AZ, 76, passed away early on Wednesday, August 23, 2023. Born August 27, 1946, Armando was a devoted husband, step-father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
Born and raised in Batuc, Mexico, Armando enjoyed fishing, farming, and working on his family's ranch, developing an affinity for horses. As a young man, he spent much of his time traveling throughout the southwest as an agricultural worker, enjoying the freedom and experiences his love for traveling afforded him before meeting his future wife and permanently settling in Arizona. So great was his love for his wife that he devoted the next 42 years to being by her side, including as her coworker as a maintenance professional for the Phoenix Union School District, for 12 years. His greatest joy was his family, and he was a loving husband, proud step-father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, reveling in his many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.Armando is preceded in death by his parents, Ignacio Rubal and Rosaura Silva.He is survived by his wife Jesusa Rubal; his step-children Violeta Vega (Jose Jr.), Lino Juarez (Kathy/Kathleen), and Jesusa Clark (John); his step-grandchildren Lee Juarez (Tiann), Regina Collins (Daniel), Jose Vega III, John Clark Jr. (Ruby), Yoshio Juarez (Luciana), Clemente Vega (Stephanie), Jacob Clark (Marie), Pierre Juarez (Jessica), Kaleen Juarez, and O'Brian Vega; as well as many great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

No Obituary is available at this time.

Esther Bourne, age 84, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 20, 2023, her daughter was by her side.  Memorial service will be held Friday, September 01, 2023 from 11:00am to noon, at Menke Funeral Home.  Burial services will be private for family members at the VA Cemetery. Esther, her husband and two children moved to Arizona 60 years ago, from Canada, to be close to her family.  She and her family spent many years enjoying outdoor activities like camping, jeeping, hunting, hiking and swimming. Esther was a homemaker for many years raising their daughter and son.  When the children became older, she enrolled in a business tech school for keypunch operators. She had a successful career with the country’s largest communication company.  Later in her life she married Gary Bourne.  Both retired from their corporate jobs, moved to the high desert of Mayer.  Enjoyed summers with grandsons, traveling around the state, camping and fishing.  Eventually they moved back to the valley, to the Sun City area.  Esther was a volunteer in computer workshop dept, while her husband volunteered at the hospital.  Other hobbies she enjoyed were listening to country western music, dancing, knitting, oil painting, playing the organ, mini golf and shopping.   She’s home with the Lord, in the arms of her parents, brothers, husband, son and dear friend John, in heaven.  Her beautiful smile, loving, caring heart will forever shine down upon us.  See you again Mom, it’s not goodbye ~ we love you!