Thompson Funeral ChapelObituaries
Although your loved one or friend is no longer here in person, they will forever be in our hearts. Find their name, and sign the guest book with a fond memory or note for their family. All comments are moderated and will be posted after review. Obituaries are updated Monday – Friday, 9am to 4pm.
Robert Walker
Robert Walker of Goodyear, Arizona passed away May 16, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona at the age of 70. He was born April 14, 1953 in Los Angeles, California to the late Bill and Clara Walker. He was also predeceased by his brother “Mickey.” He is survived by his wife Ann Walker, sons Casey and Scott Walker and his three grandchildren Eli, Osias, and Rosie.
Robby grew up in Hawthorne, California. He attended Peter Burnett elementary school, Dand middle school, and Hawthorne High School. As a child, he enjoyed fishing and playing horseshoes which continued into adulthood. Robby learned the painting contractor trade from his father. He was also a very accomplished wall cover installer. Robby enjoyed all genres of music, specifically country and reggae. From childhood, he always had a pet dog his last being Floyd the beagle. Robby enjoyed teaching Floyd tricks and taught him to say, “I want it.” Robby dearly loved his wife, sons and grandchildren.
Rest in Peace, sweet Robby.
Rodolfo “Rudy” Gonzalez
Rodolfo “Rudy” Gonzalez of Phoenix, Arizona passed away May 14, 2023 at the age of 19. He was born October 11, 2003 in Phoenix, Arizona to Alejandro Rey Gonzalez, Sr. and Vanessa Chavez.
A visitation will be held from 5 to 7pm on June 1 at Thompson Funeral Chapel. The memorial service will begin at 7pm. Burial will take place at Holy Cross Cemetery at 10am on June 2.
Richard Zemeida
Richard Zemeida of Phoenix, Arizona passed away May 16, 2023 at the age of 81. He was born March 10, 1942 in Detroit, Michigan to Paul Zemeida and Frances Lawrence.
A private graveside service will be held at Holy Cross Cemetary.
Michael Buben
Pedro Cruz Baltodano
Pedro Cruz Baltodano of Buckeye, Arizona passed away May 12, 2023. He was born July 26, 1953 in Nicaragua to Buenadventura Cruz Bado and Maria Baltodano. He is survived by his wife Silvia Cruz and sons Joaquin Cruz and Ruben Cruz.
A funeral service will begin at 5pm on June 8 at Thompson Funeral Chapel (926 South Litchfield Road, Goodyear, Arizona 85338). A funeral mass will begin at 10:30am on June 9 at St. Henry’s Church (24750 W Lower Buckeye Road, Buckeye, Arizona 85326).
Leslie Craig
Leslie Roy Craig, 60, of Goodyear, AZ died on May 20, 2023 from complications of heart disease.
Les was born on June 2, 1962 in Billings, MT to Robert and Lana Craig. He graduated from Shepherd High School and attended Dawson Community College in Glendive and Montana State University in Bozeman.
Upon leaving MSU, he worked with his parents at The Paint Department (Paint Masters) for 15 years. In 1995, Les started the Montana Team Ropers Association (MTRA) with his brother Brad and produced team ropings for many years. He later worked for Progressive Insurance writing property/ automotive damage repair estimates and finally at Manheim in Phoenix , where he did auto appraisals.
For most of his life Les rode horses, competed and team roped. As a youth he was competitive at O-Mok-See events and Junior and High School Rodeo. He attended Dawson Community College and was part of the collegiate rodeo team. Team roping was something Les was good at and loved. A highlight for him other than operating the MTRA with his brother, was in 1982 at the NARC finals in Denver, Colorado. Les on heads; Phil Luman on heels; and a smooth run to win the Go; Les spun his hat out to the coliseum crowd. Later in his life he also enjoyed golfing and more importantly golfing with his Buddies both in MT and AZ.
Years and years of good memories, good friends, good times and good runs.
In 2018, Les moved to Arizona where he had a home in the same golf community as his sisters and Mom. Shelley and Kimberly are grateful for the rounds of golf and laughs they shared with Les knowing his time in Arizona would not be long. They will miss arriving home to see that Les had been there perhaps adding some “gear” to their golf carts.
It is without question that Les’ greatest joy in life was his girls Bailey, Paige and Abbey. All conversations with Les included an update on what each of them was doing, what they said and how much he adored them. On a recent trip to Cabo as he watched his girls snap pictures on the beach with their significant others, he commented that he knew they would be “okay” going forward. This gave him a sense of peace although so very bitter sweet.
Les is survived by his wife Brenda; his three daughters Bailey, Paige, Abbey and their mother Susan Craig; his mother Lana; his sisters Kimberly and Shelley (Jorge) Barragan; his brother Bradley (Kawita); his niece Tawni (Colin); his aunts and uncles Nadine (Ding Ding) , Deb (Debbie Day) (Tom) , Ken, Garry (Lynda); his cousins; and many dear friends (Buddies) both old and new . He is preceded in death by his father Bob; his grandparents Dean and Ethel; Aunt Reba; Uncles Claude, Bill and Don and far too many close friends.
A gathering in Les’ honor will be held at 3pm on June 24th, 2023 at Pryor Creek Golf Course in Huntley, Montana. Burial of Les’ remains will take place prior and privately with family at Mountview Cemetery where Les will be placed with his Dad, as he wished.
Demetrius Marshall
Demetrius Carlos Marshall of Kennesaw, Georgia died May 7, 2023 at the age of 25. He was born October 16, 1997 in Chicago, Illinois to Curtis Marshall and Yolanda Ortiz. He is survived by his parents, Curtis Marshall and Yolanda Ortiz, sisters Aaliyah Marshall and Le’aisha Marshall, brothers Devante Marshall, Christopher Marshall, Jeremiah Marshall, Elijah Marshall, Isaiah Marshall, Carmelo Marshall, Ja’kobe Marshall and Omarion Marshall, and his grandmother Julia Ortiz.
Demetrius grew up in Illinois, Indiana, and Arizona. He graduated from Verrado High School in 2017. He attended the dental school at Estrella Mountain Community College for three years. In 2020, he moved to Kennesaw, Georgia to attend Kennesaw State for Business. He worked as a TSA for the Georgia Airport.
A visitation will be held from 10:30am to 12:30pm on Saturday, June 3 at Thompson Funeral. A graveside service will begin at 1pm at Holy Cross Cemetery in Avondale, Arizona.
Ofelia Trujillo
Ofelia Lopez Trujillo of Avondale, Arizona passed away May 16, 2023 at the age of 98. She was born May 6, 1925 in Cashion, Arizona to Ricardo Soto Lopez and Rosalia Curiel. She was preceded in death by her husband Jose M. Trujillo and son Rodolfo Trujillo. Ofelia is survived by her daughter Marta Evans, son Joseph Trujillo, sister Odelia Maese, and three grandchildren.
Ofelia grew up in Old Litchfield Park, Arizona. She attended Litchfield Elementary and High School. She married Jose, her husband of 53 years, in 1942. During World War II, Ofelia worked as a wing riveter at the Old Goodyear Aerospace facility.
Ofelia was a homemaker and was better known as Tia Yaya. She was a great and innovative cook. Her flour tortillas were massive and the best in the world. She was a devout member of the Catholic Faith and sang in the choir at St. John Vianney and later at St. Henry’s in Buckeye until her early 90’s. In her free time, she loved to paint and sew. She was also an accomplished deer hunter and loved to spend time in the great outdoors.
A funeral service will be held at St. Henry’s Catholic Church. Burial will be at Holy Cross Cemetery.
Ellsmore (Al) Vence
Ellsmore (Al) Ware Vence, 83, passed away peacefully with his wife Linda next to him in the Hospice of the Valley on April 26, 2023. His children Kim and Chris and their spouses were also in constant attendance.
Al was born on July 18, 1939 in Bridgeton City, New Jersey. He was the son of the late Robert Lawrence Vence and Ruth Ellen Ware.
Al was an outstanding student and graduated from Claymont High School at the age of 16, after which he entered the Air Force. He met his wife Carol Jean (Huber) Vence in Belleville, IL during his time in the Air Force. After serving, he worked for Honeywell Information Systems from 1970-72 as District Manager of Field Engineers in Minneapolis, MN and moved to Phoenix, AZ where he managed Honeywell’s final system tests and product quality for the total factory output until 1978.
During that time, he earned a B.S. in Mathematics from Grand Canyon College (1978). Al then moved to Sunnyvale, CAL to work for Amdahl Corporation, where he worked until his retirement in 2000. Al and Carol had two children, Kimberly (Kim) Moore and Christopher (Chris) Vence, who reside in California with their respective families. Kim married Jeff Moore and they have 3 beautiful girls: Christina, Bailey, and Jennifer. Chris married Kim Wolf, a close friend since high school.
Al took pride and joy in his family, and when he wasn’t at work he could be found attending and refereeing his kids’ soccer games and helping with homework. He also joined the Morgan Hill Lodge Masons in 1985 for his daughter who was in Rainbow Girls, another Masonic organization.
In 2005 he retired to Pebble Creek, in Goodyear, Arizona with his wife Carol. In retirement they traveled extensively, and bother became Bridge “masters.” Unfortunately, after 45 years of marriage, Carol passed away in 2010 from pancreatic cancer.
In 2012 Al began to travel again, and in 2014 met his wife Linda Jane Linthicum in Cape Town, South Africa. Sitting down next to her on a bus tour to a private game reserve, he found they were both from Arizona, with common interests they were married November 2, 2014 and continued traveling around the world.
Al enjoyed travel, visiting his family in California, golf, billiards, photography, opera and country music, reading, astronomy, chess, and tried many other things like drawing, Spanish, dancing, etc. In 2018, he and lined adopted two Havanese puppies, who were excellent companions during Covid.
Al is survived by his wife Linda Jane Linthicum, his siblings Robert Lawrence Vence II, and Judy Kates, his children Kimberly Moore and Christopher Vence, and his grandchildren Christina, Bailey, and Jennifer Moore.
Annette Mullins
Annette Mullins was born to Otis and Robbie Lawson on January 9th, 1943, in Hartford, Alabama. She was the seventh of ten children. They are Willie Bell, Annie, Betty, Otis Jr., Alfred, Bobby Jack, Bobby Gene, Norma, and Joyce. Annette received the Lord as her Savior at Bethel A.M.E. Church.
The Lawson Family later moved to Lakeland, Florida, where Annette attended and graduated from Rochelle High School in 1961. After graduating she moved to Chicago and lived there for 20 years while working in banking.
She later moved to Inglewood, California, where she worked at 1st Interstate Bank. Later in her career, she was employed as a school and city bus driver for Laidlaw and Omnitrans bus system.
After moving to California, Annette and James E. Mullins met through mutual friends and on December 6, 1975, they were joined together in holy matrimony. From this union, 2 children were born, Shannon and Shanae. She was also a stepmother to Patricia, Stacie, Eric and Carl. The family attended Crenshaw Christian Center in Inglewood, where Frederick K.C. Price pastored. Later she and her family moved to Arizona on February 9th ,1991.
If you ever met Annette, she never met a stranger. She was an incredibly vibrant, passionate, loving, spunky, energetic, entertaining, and devoted woman of God to say the least. She enjoyed shopping (QVC shopping network lol), dancing, cooking (red velvet cakes, pork chops with rice, sweet peas and spaghetti to name a few), getting her nails done every week, and spending time with her family. She also loved going to the Phoenix Suns and Diamond Backs games. She was a firecracker and very loud when it came to supporting her teams. She took over the role of being referee when there was a bad call made. Her career continued with the city of Tempe, Valley Metro, as a bus driver, where she was promoted to Supervisor and later retired.
Annette loved spending time with her grandkids and great grandkids (with one great grandchild on the way in June of 2023) going on road trips, traveling, and attending school activities. She loved the color purple, listening to gospel music, watching her soap operas, like the Young and the Restless, All My Children, Days of Our Lives and General Hospital. She also loved watching ‘The Price Is Right’ show and was absolutely thrilled when she was able to attend and be part of the audience with her sister Norma.
We deeply appreciate the care our Mom received from The Groves and Hospice AMHA.
Her unconditional love for her family and friends is why we are gathered on this day. She would want us all to “Keep dancing and ease on down the road.” Her spirit lives on in each of us.
Annette is proceeded in death by James E. Mullins (husband), Otis and Robbie Lawson (Parents), Willie Bell Caldwell (sister), Annie Lawson Tinsley (sister), Jessi Jean Tinsley (brotherin-law), Leon Johnson (brother-in-law), Otis Lawson Jr. (brother), Rozella Lawson (sister-in-law), Alfred Lee Lawson (brother), Sarah Williams Lawson (sister-in-law), Lawrence Mullins (brother-in-law), Catherine Mullins (sister-in-law) Patricia Carrington (step daughter) and Christine Layne (cousin).
She leaves behind to cherish her memory, her daughters Shanae Wilson and Stacie Meguro, sons Shannon Mullins, Eric Mullins, and Carl Mullins, sisters Betty Jean Lawson, Norma Lawson Wilson, and Joyce Lawson, and her brother Bobby J. Lawson. She is also survived by her 14 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
A funeral service will be held at 5PM, Wednesday, May 24 at Thompson Funeral Chapel.
Maureen “Mo” Carney
Ms. Maureen “Mo” Carney of Goodyear, Arizona passed away May 12, 2023 in Glendale, Arizona. She was born March 23, 1965 in New York, New York to Charles and Mary Lynch both of whom predeceased her. She was also preceded in death by her partner of 22 years Steve Pancratz and her brother Kevin Lynch.
Maureen spent the first 4 years of her life in New York before the family moved to County Longford, Ireland where they lived until Maureen was 7. In 1972, The family moved to San Diego, California. She graduated from Marion Highschool before entering National University where she earned a Business Degree in 1987. In 1991, Maureen made the decision to move to Seattle, Washington and enjoyed many happy years there, making friends wherever she went. She met her partner of 22 years, Steve Pancratz, and they eventually moved to Goodyear in 2011. They enjoyed traveling extensively throughout Arizona and the surrounding areas, as well as Mexico on a regular basis with her friends.
Maureen’s work career was varied and included banking, The Home Depot, and the Goodyear Fire Department. She joined The Home Depot team in 1991 and held several positions, working her way up to Merchant for the Tile/Carpet department. After moving to Arizona in 2011, she started volunteering for the Goodyear fire department where she was eventually hired as their Community Education Specialist.
Maureen was an accomplished Irish Dancer and competed in the World Championships in Ireland. She was also involved in a drama group, The San Diego Players” which put on Irish plays. The troupe traveled throughout San Diego and Phoenix entertaining audiences for many years. She also had a great love for animals, Irish music, working in her garden and of course her family and friends. She loved her community and was very involved with volunteering for different charities.
Maureen was always very active in her church, St. Thomas Aquinas, where she was a Eucharistic Minister and also taught Faith formation. Her Faith and Devotion to God was very strong and never wavered.
Maureen loved and was loved by many. She will be dearly missed by all but we take comfort that she is now in the hands of God.
A visitation will begin at 9AM on Wednesday, May 24 at Thompson Funeral Chapel. A recitation of the Holy Rosary will begin at 10AM.
Richard Riemenschneider
Richard James Riemenschneider passed away unexpectedly on May 11, 2023 in Goodyear Arizona, at the age of 68.
He was born in Evanston, Illinois in December 1954. He was preceded in death by his parents Robert R Riemenschneider and Polly (Caylor) Riemenschneider, and two brothers Robert Alan Riemenschneider and Steven Jay Riemenschneider. He is survived by his loving wife Martha Sedlacek Riemenschneider, and his cherished daughter Malinda Suzanne Riemenschneider. Also, by his brother John Paul Riemenschneider (Lauri) and two sisters, Anne Riemenschneider Cody (Mark), and Susan Riemenschneider Cao (Wiego), his Sister-in-law Annie Pasquale, and his Brother-In-Law, Paul Richard Sedlacek (Meg) (Cindy). He was often called “Uncle ReDickulous” by his nephews and nieces Kevin, Bryan and Caitlyn Cody; Kelsie, Justin and Caylor Riemenschneider; Quinn and Anna Bentjen; and Laura, Eric and Jasper Sedlacek. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Ralph Lucas
Ralph A. Lucas of Goodyear, Arizona passed away May 9, 2023 at the age of 77. He was born April 16, 1946 in Prescott, Arizona to William Albert Lucas and Lois Jane Boss.
Ralph was a veteran of the United States Marines and served during the Vietnam War. He taught math and auto mechanics. In his free time, he enjoyed watching old television shows like Perry Mason, Nero Wolfe, and Runpole of the Bailey. He also liked war movies and anything about World War II. Most people knew to not get into a discussion with him about politics, religion, or education.
He was a generous man who will be missed.
A visitation will be held from 9 to 10:30am on Thursday, May 25 at Thompson Funeral. Interment will follow at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona at 12:30pm.
Betty Florence Taylor
Betty Taylor of Peoria, Arizona passed away on April 27, 2023. She lived a full life of 88 years and has gone on to be welcomed into the arms of Jesus in heaven. She was born to A Bartlett and Mary Fisher on April 10, 1935 in Johnson City, Tennessee. Betty met Joe Taylor in 1957 and they were happily married until his death in 2009. One of her greatest passions was cooking which she enjoyed right up until her last few months baking hundreds of cookies for those in her retirement center.
Joe and Betty were proud parents of their daughter Sundee, and son-in-law Jim North of Escondido, California. The joy of their lives were grandchildren Zachary and Bailey North of Escondido, and Jared North of Tokyo, Japan. All three caught their first fish with Grandpa. Betty is also survived by her brother Francis Fisher, and sisters-in-law Margaret Laws and Eileen Fisher.
She had an unwavering faith in God which she continually shared with those who surrounded her. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Avondale Baptist Church were her memorial will be held on My 26 at 10:30am.
Jeanette Ortiz
Jeanette Ortiz of Avondale, Arizona passed away May 3, 2023 at the age of 56. She was born December 7, 1966 in Phoenix, Arizona to Johnny Martinez and Ester Trevino.
A funeral service will be held at 10am, Friday, May 26 at Thompson Funeral with the visitation prior at 9:20am. Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.
*A longer obituary will be posted when available.
John Billington
John R. Billington of Goodyear, Arizona passed away May 8, 2023 at the age of 48. He was born January 3, 1975 in Portland, Oregon to Henry Billington and Diana Maynor. He was a veteran of the United States Army.
Valerie Tomic
Valerie Tomic, age 66, of Goodyear, Arizona passed away April 30, 2023. She was born September 10, 1956 in Detroit, Michigan to John Drobischak and Dolores (nee Wodarczyk) Drobischak.
Burial will take place Monday, May 15, at 12pm at Sunland Memorial Park.
Jeremiah Castro
Jeremiah I Castro, of Buckeye, AZ, passed away unexpectedly on May 3rd. He was only 37 years old. Our family is devastated and shocked by this loss. Jeremiah was born on January 23rd, 1986, in San Francisco, CA to parents Victor and Lana.
Jeremiah’s hobbies (When not tirelessly working for his family) included spending quality family time with his wife and children, playing video games and following news on his favorite NFL team the Raiders. He was an amazing artist and was passionate about cars.
He is survived by his wife Jessica, his children Zaiden and Zaila, his parents, his brothers Jared and Ben, and the remaining RAIDER NATION. No services will take place, but a celebration of life will be held for him by his loving family. We do appreciate your love and support during this difficult time.
Lynn Lois Higgins
Lynn Lois Falco, a Veteran of the United States Air Force, was born January 19th 1959. Diagnosed April 28th 2023 with Stage 4 Lung Cancer, she passed May 8th 2023 surrounded by family.
Married 30 years, she is survived by her mother Gwendoline, her brothers Brian and Wesley, her four children, Steven, Christina, Mark, and Jennifer, and her three grandchildren, Mikenzie, Mikayla, and Alex. A retired homemaker, she travelled extensively acquiring well over 100 magnets, a collection she was proud to display and discuss with visitors. An avid music and book lover, Danielle Steel was her favorite author.
A service will be held May 13th, 2023 from 1700-2100 at Thompson Funeral Chapel, followed by a Celebration of Life.
Larry & Teri Martin
Mr. Larry Van Martin, Sr.
SUNRISE: 03/11/1949 – SUNSET: 04/17/2023
Born: Edwardsville, Illinois, to the deceased parentage of the late Mr. Arthur Robert Martin Sr. and Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Martin.
Less than 48 hours of Larry’s passing, his beautiful Bride Teri, of 40 beautiful & blissful years, joined him in Heaven.
Mrs. Teri Ellain Martin
SUNRISE: 02/13/1960 – SUNSET: 04/19/2023
Born: Dallas, Georgia, to the deceased parentage of the late Mr. Talmadge J. Thomason and Ms. Rebecca J. Dickson.
Larry was educated in the public school system where he attended Manuel School in Denver, Colorado. After High School he joined the U.S. Air Force; his tours of duties included: Guam – Okinawa, Japan, Edwards Air Force Base – California, Ramstein Air Force Base – Germany and Elgin Air Force Base – Florida. Larry civilian employment: Larry worked at the Logan school for many years prior to the completion of 21 years of faithful employment for the Temple Sinai, he retired and moved his family to Phoenix Arizona, a couple years later moved to Denver Colorado, where they spent most of their lives before moving to Tucson Arizona 11 years ago.
Larry loved sports; he received the nickname “Re-Run” while playing football for the U.S. Air Force. He was a 4th and 5th girls basketball coach for many years and that he was a big advocate for women’s sports. His love for music was equally important, especially Earth Wind and Fire. As children we heard countless stories about his 2 special School friends that became famous – Honorable mention – Mr. Phillip Bailey, Earth Wind & Fire and Ms. Pam Grier, Actress. Larry loved to travel, he was an excellent provider for his Family, I must mention; every summer we made a cross country family trip for 30 days.
Larry was preceded in death by sisters and brothers Carol Higgins, Audrey Hicks, Judy Martin, William (Bobby), Peggy Henderson and Sherry Harris.
They are survived by their BLENDED FAMILY: (Six Children), Lena Jackson, Larry Martin Jr, Latonya Davis, Terry Martin (Candi), Pinkey Martin and Natasha Brown (Lance), Teri’s brother Kenneth J. Thomason; 27 Grandchildren 20 Great Grands and a Host of Nieces and Nephews and Friends. Special Friend Ms. Diane Martin.
Teri was educated in the public school system in Georgia. After high school, she was a Homemaker. Teri was a loving, fun, a high-spirited human being, sharp mind, great memory, very smart and could remember everyone’s birthday. Literally everyone!! She was an avid reader, approximately 100 books a year. She loved to watch her grandchildren, watch game shows, and sports with her favorite teams being the Georgia Bull Dogs, Denver Nuggets, and the Denver Broncos. Teri and Larry would watch General Hospital every day at 1pm and you had to be quiet at that time, they were not playing about watching their soap. Then she would call up Diane who also watched it and they would try and predict what was going to happen next. This conversation happened on the daily. Sundays were always her favorite day, as she would always say its “Margarita Sunday” at Dee’s house and brag about all the foods that Dee was cooking for them to munch on. They’d listen to some oldies, rhythm and blues, jazz and just laugh and relax. Her grandchildren always confided in her, especially if they got in trouble or needed help with homework. I believe she helped everyone with homework and assignments at some point in our lives. Teri always loved to tell stories of when she was younger and talk about her party days with her bestie Diane Martin and how they were living the good life. She was introduced by Diane to my dad 40 years ago!! They married on 11/04/1983. They enjoyed traveling. Every summer they would go places like Disneyland, Disneyworld, San Diego, etc… Wonderful memories were made.
A poem for both:
Family Tree
Two limbs have fallen from the family tree we hear a voice that whispers, “Grieve not for us
Remember the best times, the laughter, the songs
The good we lived while we were strong
Continue our heritage, We are counting on you.
Keep on smiling, the sun will shine through.
Our minds are at ease, our souls is at rest
Remember all… how we were truly blessed.
Continue traditions, no matter how small
Go on with your lives, don’t stare at the walls
We miss you all dearly so keep up your chin
Until that fine day we’re together again.
A Poem for Mom:
If Roses Grow in Heaven
If Roses grow in Heaven Lord
Please pick a bunch for me.
place them in my mother’s arms
and tell her they are from me.
Tell her I love her and miss her
and when she turns to smile
place a kiss upon her cheek
and hold her for a while.
because remembering her is easy,
I do it everyday
But there is an ache within my heart
that will never go away.
I love you mom
A Poem for Dad:
Sometimes
I can’t believe Dad
that you have actually gone,
yet, you’ve left me with
an inner strength
to build my life upon.
You’ve always left good memories
which within my heart I hold,
that no one can ever take away
for I treasure them like gold.
So dear Dad sleep peacefully
you’re in my every thought,
and I feel such thankfulness
for all the happiness you brought.
Love you Dad
Special Thanks:
From Blended Family Sisters & Brothers
Special Thanks to Our Beloved
Brittney and Sister LaTonya for keeping a watchful eye, cooking, cleaning and Loving our Parents when we needed them most.
Service Information:
A memorial service will be eld at 9AM on Friday, May 19 at Thompson Funeral Chapel.
Nancy Hanes
Nancy Nadine (Durham) Hanes
Nancy Hanes was a caring wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She was called home to our Heavenly Father on May 7, 2023, at age 68 after a brief, but difficult battle with cancer.
Born in Uravan, CO to Leonard and Bonnie (Baughn) Durham, Nancy was the fourth of five children and raised mostly in Arizona where her father worked for mining companies. After graduating high school in Kingman, AZ, she worked as a switchboard operator for the phone company in Kingman and then for the Tammaron Ski Resort in Durango, CO before becoming an ambulance dispatcher for the hospital in Farmington, NM. She married William “Bill” D Hanes in Joseph City, AZ on September 2, 1978. Together, they raised four children in the Buckeye area.
Nancy spent her life serving the Lord, her family, and her community. As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she magnified each of her callings, from coordinating the Saturday morning cleanings of the church house to nursery leader to Relief Society president. She was a homemaker and involved in her children’s schools, sports, and activities but always found time to help those in need with a meal, a ride, or a visit. She cherished her grandchildren and the time she spent with them. For over thirty years she volunteered her time with the Girl Scouts organization as a troop leader and later as the Cotton Blossom Neighborhood manager. She also held multiple positions at various county polling locations supporting state and federal elections.
She is survived by her husband, Bill Hanes; her children, Willie Hanes, Renee Hanes, Natalie Hanes, and Sarah Hanes (Tyson Mustain); siblings, (Bonnie Durham), Mary (Howard) Kligge, Linda Meier, and Karen Soderborg; mother-in-law, Fern Hanes; and eight grandchildren, Katie, Kimmie, Tyson, Paige, Will, Summer, Khloe, and Frankie. She is preceded in death by her parents, Leonard and Bonnie Durham; brothers, Chuck Durham and (Lee Soderborg); and father-in-law, Jim Hanes.
Funeral services will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Buckeye, AZ, Eason Building, on May 17th, 2023, at 10:00 AM. Interment at Louis B. Hazelton Memorial Cemetery in Buckeye immediately following.
Marcos Martinez
Marcos Martinez, age 59, passed away surrounded by family on Sunday, May 7, 2023.
Marcos was born on December 10, 1963, in Fabens, Texas, to Maria de Refugio (Cuca) and Rito Martinez. His parents later settled their family in Arizona. Marcos was the baby of the family and graduated from Dysart High School in 1981.
Marcos was an avid Arizona sports fan, grill master, and family expert on all things music and Hollywood Westerns. Marcos was known to be creative and comedic and thus authored many endearing nicknames for his family and friends.
Marcos met his wife, Gloria Apodaca, in Clovis, New Mexico, while working as a radio disc jockey for the station KCLV FM. His on-air radio personality was Marc Anthony. Marcos and Gloria married in December of 1983 and later welcomed two children, Santiago (Sonny) and Sara.
Marcos is survived by his wife, Gloria Apodaca Martinez; two children, Santiago (Caitlin) Martinez and Sara (Danny) Martinez-Michel; grandchildren, Sebastian Martinez, Mackenzie Michel, Zoe Michel, and Danny Noah Michel; sisters Nellie Espinoza and Maria Elena Rojas, and brother Porfirio Martinez; special brother-like cousin Coach Andy Martinez; godchildren, Emiliano Martinez and Isabella Ortis; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Rito Martinez and Maria de Refugio (Cuca) Martinez, and siblings Rosario Martinez, Jesse Martinez, Estela Primero, and Rito Martinez.
Marcos will be deeply missed by his family.
Signing off one last time, it’s Marcos Martinez at KCLV FM. Farewell.
In lieu of services, family will celebrate his life privately and encourage others to honor his life in their own way.
Maxwell Douglas Hatch
Maxwell Douglas Hatch, 23, died unexpectedly May 1, 2023, at his Goodyear home. Maxwell was born May 30, 1999, at St. Johns Hospital, Detroit, MI to Andrew K and Karyn K Hatch.
Maxwell moved from Michigan to Arizona with his family in 2007. Maxwell graduated from Verrado High School. He went on to obtain two Associates Degrees in Business and Finance. At the time of his passing, Maxwell worked at United Parcel Service. He followed the University of Michigan Men’s Basketball program, but more than any other interest he enjoyed music, in all ways. Maxwell was unmarried, and enjoyed a large circle of friends, including a special core group.
Maxwell is predeceased by paternal grandparents, Verne and Laura Kuehl, and maternal grandmother, Gloria Krier. Maxwell had no biological siblings and is survived by his parents, grandfather Gary Krier, three aunts, three uncles, and many cousins.
A service of remembrance will be held 9a.m. Wednesday, May 10, at Thompson Funeral Chapel, 926 S. Litchfield Rd., Goodyear.
Corey Thomas McClain
On May 5th, 2023 Corey Thomas McClain went into the arms of our heavenly father. He passed away in Phoenix Arizona at the age of 28. He was born March 25, 1995 in Mansfield, Ohio.
Corey is survived by his loving family, including: Mother and step-father Tara Marie Johnson and Jeremy Parker of Mineloa, Texas; Son Jaxson Reed of Arkansas; Brother Hunter Allen Wright of Mineola, Texas; Grandmother Shelley Denise Holley (who loved him dearly) of Grove City, Ohio; Grandfather Harry Johnson of Ohio; Great-grandparents John and Donna Holley of Orient, Ohio; Uncle Brian Johnson and family of Traverse City, Michigan; Aunt April Holley and John Mark Holley, and Aunt Jessica Johnson and family of Columbus, Ohio as well as other aunts and uncles from Columbus, Ohio and West Virginia; Great-aunt Saundra and Terry Sanders and cousin Lori Ray of Phrump, Nevada; Dennis and Rachel Parker of Kingman, Arizona and the Parker family of Hawkins, Texas; and Wonderful family friend Erin Tatum who always loved and encouraged Corey.
Corey was proceeded in death by our very close family friend, and his namesake, Thomas Schlosser of Mansfield, Ohio, his paternal grandmother Rosa Johnson of Columbus, Ohio, cousins Ashley Holley, John Holley, Jr, Troy Smith and Kimberly Lenhart of Ohio, Great-grandparents Margaret and James S Smith of Columbus, Ohio, Great-grandparents Ray and Madeline Holley of Columbus, Ohio and Great-great uncle Paul Klouse of Ohio.
Corey loved music and animals, especially dogs. He never met a stranger and would talk to everyone. His smile would light up a room.
Corey was an organ donor by his choice and we are so proud he saved lives.
Corey will be cremated in Phoenix Arizona by Thompson Funeral Chapel of Goodyear, Arizona. Family will have a celebration of life at a later date to be announced.
If you would like to contribute, please donate to your local animal shelter.
His mother, brother, and grandma Shelley will always keep him in our hearts forever.
James Dean Stanley
In Memory of James Dean Stanley
January 21, 1945 – March 1, 2023
When Jim died, we lost our beloved husband, proud and loving father, adoring grandfather, generous and loyal family member, and steadfast friend. He was born to Ruth (Schaeffer) and Merrill Stanley of Boring and was a Gresham Gopher, graduating with the class of 1963 from GUHS. He attended Portland State University while employed at the Gresham Berry Growers. His all-time favorite car was his ’56 blue and white Ford Fairlane from those years. He was a 6th generation Oregonian and proud of his heritage.
From 1966 to 1968 Jim served in the US Navy as a “tin can man” on the destroyer USS Theodore E. Chandler, and continued in the Naval Reserves until 1971. He was named a Shellback in 1968 after crossing the equator. After he returned home from Vietnam, he was employed at Portland’s Ford Industries Inc. in electronics, then in building with his uncle Glen Schaeffer at KLM construction in Sandy. He and his cousin Scott Schaeffer later built his family home, where he lived with his family for the remainder of his life. In 1977, he partnered with Glen and Scott in Schaeffers’ Nursery in Gresham, where he spent 35 years farming 100 acres, until retirement in 2012.
Jim was a supportive and involved community member; he served as Cubmaster of Pack 281, organized the volunteer donation and planting of the West Orient School grounds, was a Board member for the Pleasant Home Water District, and for many years an active Barlow Band Parent. Jim enjoyed 10 years of retirement, including cruises to Europe, through the Panama Canals (old and new), and his favorite, to Hawaii and Tahiti (especially snorkeling in Bora Bora). He escaped some of Oregon’s dreary winter weather in Arizona. But, mainly, he worked in his yard and garden, cultivating many specialty plants, vegetables, and, especially, gladiolus flowers. One year, he figured he had grown over 1500 of them, and it was his special joy to give away bouquets of beautiful blooms.
He leaves behind his wife, Jill (Randall), his children, June Feucht (Richard), David Stanley (Lis), and grandchildren Justin Feucht, Sophie Feucht, and Felix Stanley. Our hearts are broken with his loss, but we are consoled that he’ll be able to rest and observe a garden’s beauty, instead of working in one! A bench, built by his uncle Glen, will be placed in his honor at the Oregon Garden. It will be inscribed “Dear Jim, your time of toil is past. Come, put down your work and rest a while in the Garden.” If you are so moved, contributions to his memorial may be sent to the Oregon Garden at PO Box 155, Silverton, OR 97381. Jim will be laid to rest in Willamette National Cemetery. Please join us for a celebration of Jim’s life at Persimmon Country Club, Gresham, on July 15 from 2-5 pm.
Pamela McAden
Pamela Jane McAden of Avondale, Arizona passed away May 1, 2023 at the age of 80. She was born October 9, 1942 in Gothenburg, Nebraska to Wayne and Francis Hurd both of whom preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her husband of over 40 years, Alva Raymond McAden, Jr. and her brothers Dale and Dick.
Pamela was raised in Gothenburg, Nebraska. Her family moved to Colorado where she graduated from high school. She met her husband, Alva, after starting a job at the phone company. It was love at first sight for Alva, and they married six months later. Together they raised their three children and enjoyed life as a family. As active members of their community and church, Pamela and Alva ran “The Sunshine Ministry” which delivered care packages to the elderly in their community. Pamela was also known as “the card lady.” She loved to send people, even strangers she met at the grocery store, cards just to “make their day better.” She frequently would have large stacks of cards to go out to the mail.
Pamela loved to take care of her family. She was always baking cookies and brownies for her grandchildren. When anybody in her family was sick, she would do her best to care for them. She was kind, caring, and compassionate. Her smile never failed to reach her sparkling eyes when she smiled. She loved to wear her “bling” in shades of purple and pink. She was a bright butterfly who loved to spread joy.
Pamela was an angel on earth. She was a devout Christian who prayed and thanked God every day for her life. She led her life according to Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Her eyes and smile held the love of God in them always. She taught her children that He never gives them more than they can handle. And though she is gone from us, her memory and many lessons will live on through the legacy of her family and friends.
Pamela leaves behind many loved ones to cherish her memory. These include her children: Peggy Ann McAden, Alva “Corky” McAden, and James Andrew McAden; brother Neil Hurd; grandchildren: Stacie Jane Dennis, Ryan Andrew Dennis, Shannon James McAden, and Trevor McAden; and one great-grandchild, Renee Ann Dennis. She also leaves behind her beloved Yorkipoo Boo, extended family, and the many friends she made on her journey through life.
A visitation will be held from 9 to 10:30AM, Thursday, May 11 at Thompson Funeral Chapel. A funeral service will begin at 10:30AM. Interment will follow at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona at 1:30PM.
Jesse M Card III
Jesse M. Card III of Avondale, Arizona passed away surrounded by his loving wife and family on April 27, 2023. He was born on May 30, 1959 in Doylestown, Pennsylvania to Jesse M. II and Taeko Card.
The family moved to Avondale, where he lived the majority of his life. He graduated from Agua Fria High School in 1977. Being an avid outdoorsman, he spent most of his spare time hunting and fishing. He married the love of his life, Wendy in 2016.
Jesse is survived by his wife Wendy Card, his children Michael Cadena, Jesse M. IV (Renee) Card, Adam Card, Tasha (Bobby) Ellsworth and Christopher Card; his precious dogs Skoshi and Little Skoshi; four siblings; his best friend Ken Murray; 16 grandchildren and one on the way; two great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews and close friends. He is preceded in death by his mother and father.
Celebration of Life memorial service will be held on Thursday, May 4, 2023 from 10:00am to 1:00pm at Thompson Funeral Chapel.