Obituaries

On Friday December 29th, 2023. Our Extraordinary Father, Grandfather, Brother, Uncle, Cousin, and Friend. Robert Earl Gage we bid farewell as he peacefully passed, at his home at the age of 69 years young.Robert was born in Meridian, Mississippi on November 25th, 1954 to Ella Lou Glenn Johnson. As a teenager he migrated to Waukegan, Illinois and later to Saginaw, Michigan. Robert, pursued his education at Saginaw High School but later moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico where he would graduate from Eldorado High School with a Diploma in 1973.Robert was a true believer in Education, he didn't allow his Diploma to stop him from furthering his education. He would go on to receive an Associate in Arts at Delta college, Associate of Applied Science in Electronics Technician at Great Lakes Junior College of Business, Certificate of Completion in VCR Repair & Maintenance, Wordsmiths Certificate of Achievement in Locksmithing, Multi-Training Systems Certificate of Achievement in Electrical & Wiring, Certificate of Completion in Veolia Phoenix Operator Training Course, Certificate of Training in Accordance with Southwest Truck Driver Training, and Certificate of Completion as an Professional Truck Driver Training.Robert was a true lover of all sports. He was passionate about football, basketball, baseball, tennis, golf, and bowling. Most of all he enjoyed being an official in the boys and girls middle to high school basketball games. And a umpire for boys and girls middle to high school baseball, and softball games, from the state of Michigan to Arizona. Robert, worked numerous of jobs throughout his life. Starting as an Assembler worker at Saginaw Division, a Chipper and Grinder/Casting Inspector at Grey Iron Local 668, a Technician with Shreveport Truck & Bus in Shreveport, Louisiana, a Electronic Technician for Dictating Machine Service Co. in Saginaw, Michigan traveling Mid-Michigan repairing IBM equipment. Robert, started his own business with his close friend as an Electronic Service Tech/ Service Manager for ELP, INC in Saginaw, Michigan, working as a C.S.R. Technician for G-Tech Corporation in Saginaw, Michigan and servicing Lottery terminals. Robert, retired as an Steering System Tech/System Coordinator at Delphi Steering Systems Local 699 in Saginaw, Michigan. After retiring, Robert did not stop he started a new career as a Professional Truck Driver/Truck Driver Training for Southwest Trucking Company in Phoenix, Arizona, working in a newspaper factory for Communication LLC in Sun City, Arizona, working as an official referee and umpire for ASA, AIA, and Major Sports Officials LLC, in Phoenix, Arizona, and a Security Guard with S.A.F.E Management in Phoenix, Arizona.Robert, was a strong believer in teaching his children the importance of education, and to work hard for things they want in life. Robert, would always tell them to save something out of each check if it was only $5.00. Robert, loved to be around family and close friends playing spades, dominoes, and bowling with the Wii game. Anytime, Robert entered the room as quite as he was, he was still the life of the party.Robert, leaves to cherish in memory of two daughters, Tamekia L. Givan Hudsonville, Michigan, Roshanna E. Givan Phoenix, Arizona, and one son Roderick E. Gage Saginaw, Michigan. Two grandchildren Malik N Givan and London M Champion both of Hudsonville, Michigan. Extended Children Karlessa (Kevin) Morton, Sharmonica Pugh, and Khalil Pugh all from Phoenix, Arizona. Grandchildren and great-grandchildren Genae Pugh, Daryl White, D'Mia Pugh, Rick White, Jakarie Alexander, Keyon Morton, Peyton Pugh, Jelani Alexander, Giovanni Pugh, Daryl White Jr., and Londyn Pugh all from Phoenix, Arizona. Three brothers Willie (Geri) Gage Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Johnny Gage Albuquerque, New Mexico, Everett C. Green Saginaw, Michigan and many nephews and nieces.Special friends: Clinton (Thelma) Jasper, John (Lorna) Burke, Billy Nelson, Robert Culpepper, Jesse Johnson, Melinda Dodd, Charles Rivers, Keith Griggs, and Henry Harris.Robert was proceeded in death by his Mother Ella Lou Glenn Johnson, Grandparents Robert Glenn & Pearl Ann Dixon, Brother Charlie L. Gage, Uncle & Auntie Marshall & Mary Pearl Goss, Uncle Monroe (Ella Marie) Glenn, Uncle Morgan Glenn, Nephews Andre and Everett Douglas, and two sister-in-laws Mary Wright Gage and Lavonne H. Gage. Friends James Boykin Jr., Otis Washington, Kenny White, Steven Hopkins, Wendell Ward, Gilbert " Gilly" Ward, and Michael Pulliam.Special thanks: Johnny & Anna Gage, Jordan Gage, Angela Murad, and Patrick "Dj Moreece" Young. And Robert special confidants Mary J (John) Givan Lewis and Lillia Pugh.The family would like to express a special thank you to Deborah Bagwell, Robert significant other who brought him so much joy up until his last days.https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTcwNTU0Nzg5NzI5MTIzMyZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJmNvcHlfbGluaw==

Jeffrey Jay Jacomet entered this world on 09/03/1953 to Dolores (Jellema) and William Jacomet in Sioux Falls, SD. He made his mark wherever he landed, including Mitchell, SD and Wessington Springs, SD. One thing you could always count on from Jeff is a guided tour of those places that were meaningful. Jeff entered the restaurant business from an early age as his own grandparents and parents were in the business. You could say it was in his blood. He first gained experience in his parent’s restaurant, the Springs Inn in Wessington Springs which is still owned and operated by his sister. In his early years, he gained experience in kitchens from Sioux Falls to the Black Hills and beyond. He traveled via motorcycle, a love that continued into his old age.He met the love of his life, Mary Boggs and they were united in marriage on 11/02/1981. Mary joined Jeff on his food service journey. Together they operated the Village Inn in Madison, SD and the Ortman Hotel and Jac’s Restaurant in Canistota through their 42 years together. Jeff enjoyed golf…maybe enjoyed is an understatement. Golf was life. They moved to Sun City, AZ just to enjoy year round golfing! Jeff met so many life long friends through golfing. Jeff also enjoyed time spent with friends and family and of course, his pets.You would be hard pressed to meet someone who did not have a funny story to tell about Jeff. Even though he presented a crass exterior, inside he had a huge soft spot for his children and grandchildren.Jeff is survived by his wife, Mary. His daughter Jacquelyn (Dareus) Montreal, his son Samuel (Nadia) Jacomet. His grandchildren Corbin, Reid, Faith, Mary Bea, and Sara Iva. His sisters Cheryl (Chet) Manthei and Carla (Jon) Niemeyer. His brothers Lynn and Mike Jacomet. Shall we not forget countless nieces, nephews, in-laws, and cousins. He preceded in death by his mother and father.

Marlene M.Heinrich, 89 of Surprise Az passed away on December 23rd, 2023. She was bornJanuary 18th, 1934 in Easton, MN. Married to Robert W. Heinrich on January 27th, 1951.Preceed in death by her parents Victor Prail and Ida Hughes (Les), sister Maxine Sablak (John Sr), brother LaMar Prail , husband Robert Heinrich, 2 daughters Debra Kay and Sandy Sue (LaVerne) and son MarkAllen (Betty). She is survived by 2 daughters: Sharon Jean (Mike) and Dawn Marie (David) and herbrother Galen Prail (Sherry),(Sister-in-Law) Rose Prail, 6 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and 8 great great children.Marlene loved to travel back to Minnesota every summer to spend time with her family. Sheenjoyed embroidery, spending time with the ladies group and friends from church and was aavid reader.Visitation will be from 10-11 AM on Saturday the 13th , 2024 with service following at 11AM.Both at Apostles Lutheran Church, 7020 W Cactus Road, Peoria, AZ.

Marie Wood-Briesch passed away on Friday, December 22, 2023, at the age of 87. Marie was born in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia in 1936. She was married to Stewart Wood in 1960 and had two daughters, Christine Mary Kowalski (James) and Nancy Marie Wood. She is preceded in death by her parents, Margaret and Maurice Rooney; her husband, Deacon Stewart Wood; and brother, Ernest Rooney (Alva).She remarried in 2010 to Deacon Forrest Briesch. She worked in the Medical Field as a Physical Therapy Technician until she retired in 2001 from Banner Thunderbird Hospital. Marie is survived by her husband, Forrest; two daughters, Christine and Nancy; grandchildren, Brandon Kowalski (Brandi), and Lisa Todd (Jason); great grandchildren, Ian Stewart, Brielle Elizabeth, Piper Nicole, Zoey Christine, and Logan Allan; sister, Barbara Jones (David); brothers, Maurice (Joyce) Rooney, and Paul Rooney (Denise); as well as many dear aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Mass on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. held at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church. An inurnment will follow at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery at 1:00 p.m.In lieu of flowers, donation can be made to St. Vincent de Paul Society in Marie’s memory.“When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.”

David C Buckau, 85, died peacefully December 21, 2023, at his residence, surrounded by family and dear friend Linda, in Sun City, AZ.   He was born April 1, 1938, in Oak Creek, WI., the son of Alfred C. and Dorothy(Sweet) Buckau.David earned is G.E.D. while servingin the U.S. Army from January 1956 through November 1958,after the Korean War.After the war, he married Mary(Graham),where they settled down in Racine, WI. and raised their 4 children.Later in life, David married his second wife, Lee Ann(Marshall) from Kenosha, WI.In addition to the Army, David worked for Chicago Milwaukee St. Paul& Pacific Railroad from March 1959-1965;he was a truck driver for 36 years, starting his career with Motor Transport in 1965 and retiring from Yellow Truck in 2001.In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his daughter, Katherine,his brother, Phil, and his beloved wife of 34 years, Lee Ann.Surviving David is his sonJeffrey(Joan)Buckau, of Summerville, SC;daughters, Karen(Luis)Marquez, of Sun City, AZ.,Lisa(Mike)Peyton, of Racine, WI.;son Matthew(Deborah)Buckau, of Dayton, TN.;step-daughters Joanne(Carl)Ciske, of Kenosha WI;Lori Marshall and Jenny Marshall, of Kenosha WI;twenty-two grandchildren; sisters Eloise Dykas, of New Berlin WIand Judy Repovich, of Arbor Vitae WI.;along with many great grandchildren.David enjoyed golfing, where he made a hole in one in 2017. Additionally, he enjoyed everything trains; from having his own model setto watching live You Tube train videos.David was a master storyteller and will forever be remembered for his many detailed stories and jokes.The family would like to express their gratitude to Dr. Dogeas, Banner MD Cancer Center, and to Sarah Lancaster, from Hospice of the Valley, for their compassion and care of our father. A service of remembrance will be held in the summer of 2024,where he will be laid to rest, with his wife,at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery. 

Obituary is still being written by the family and will be posted as soon as it becomes available.Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Visitation at Prince of Peace Catholic Church on Monday, January 8, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. A Rosary will begin at 10:20 a.m. with a Funeral Mass to follow at 11:00 a.m. A Graveside Service will be held at Sunland Memorial Park at 1:00 p.m.

John Richard Daly peacefully passed away on Thursday, December 14, 2023 at the age of 85. He was born in Richmond, CA, and lived most of his life in the San Francisco Bay Area before relocating to Arizona following his retirement from the US Treasury Service.  John spent much of his free time watching baseball and football – especially the San Francisco Giants and the 49ers. He avidly attended live theatre, and greatly enjoyed listening to music, particularly Broadway, opera, jazz, and classical music, as well as the Great American Songbook and big band music from the 40s.  John was the family historian. He was a great storyteller and shared stories of his trips to London, including with his Aunt Winnie to visit extended family and see historic sites. He enjoyed learning about history including visiting museums and watching documentaries. He was a dedicated family man, taking his family on vacations to Disneyland on a regular basis. Other hobbies include playing Mahjong, bird watching, watching old movies and musicals, reading, and spoiling his loyal dog. He will be greatly missed by all of his family.  John is survived by his wife of 45 years, Royann (Pimm), children Jennifer, Heather, and Owen, his sister Diane Traverso, and four nieces and nephews. John was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard Daly and Hilda Lawrence, step-father Walter Lawrence, and a nephew. 

Albino Venecia Landingin, a proud veteran of the US Navy, passed away on December 13, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona. He was born February 5, 1938, in his hometown of Malasin in Pangasinan, Philippines to Ambrosio and Victoria de Venecia Landingin. He was predeceased by his siblings Leon, Susana, Teofilo, Primitivo, Cristina, and Adela. Albino served 23 years in the US Navy. He held the position of Management Specialist and retired with the rank of Senior Chief. He valued his service highly; As part of his military career and service, Albino achieved military awards including the Navy Commendation Medal and Achievement Medal. After retiring from the US Navy, Albino entered the US Postal Service where he dedicated the next 16 years. While serving, Albino wed his first wife, Herminia Landingin, in 1968. They remained married for 49 years, up until her passing in 2017. They shared one son. Albino was known for his cooking, witty jokes, love of storytelling, and singing to Engelbert Humperdinck. He loved his family and friends dearly and continued to keep in contact with distant relatives who lived in the Philippines. After the passing of his first wife, Albino re-married and enjoyed his remaining years traveling with his second wife and spending time with his son and family.Albino is survived by his second wife, Anita Landingin; son, Ray Landingin; daughter-in-law, Maria Landingin; and three grandchildren: Katherine, Lauryn, and Ethan Landingin.Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the burial service held at The National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona on Friday, January 12, 2023, at 1:30 p.m. Flowers can be sent to Menke Funeral Home. 

In loving memory of Margaret Ann Miracle, or Maggie, a southern soul who departed after 32 sweet years at Motorola and a decade nurturing special hearts in Higley. As a mama to three, Chuck and Susie continue Maggie's legacy alongside her eight grandchildren - Heath, Laura, Lincoln, Taylor, Lindsey, Seth, Justin, and Dekota, and three great-grandchildren - Cruz, Croix, and Tanner. Maggie, with her music echoing like a tune from the Arkansas hills, fishing stories as rich as family traditions, and a shopping spree that sparkled like the southern stars, truly made San Tan Valley her own for 21 heartwarming years. Grandma Piggy, a name that rang out with the warmth of a southern drawl, added a special touch of southern hospitality to every corner of her life. Born in Gurdon, Arkansas, Maggie brought the spirit of the South to Phoenix in '67, carrying the traditions of her parents, Glenn Everett Wingfield and Jewel Mae Trout, both now resting peacefully. Surrounded by her siblings Lois Wingfield, Rita Magness, and Sarah Elieff, Maggie's journey through life was colored with the warmth and laughter that only a close-knit southern family can provide. As the sun sets on Maggie's earthly story, her legacy lives on in the hearts of her kin, forever bound by the love, laughter, and Arkansas charm she so generously shared.

A Phoenix native and longtime Tonopah resident, Linda Price, age 73, passed away on December 7, 2023 at Hospice of the Valley surrounded by love.Linda was a beacon of kindness, known for her unwavering compassion for others and dogs. Her life was dedicated to serving and helping others. She touched countless hearts through her generosity and selflessness. As a devoted wife, sister, aunt, friend and dog lover, she leaves behind a legacy of love and grace that will forever be cherished.In her professional career, Linda was a construction business owner, creating beautiful bathrooms in many of the Phoenix area homes.Linda had a deep love for strays. She fostered small dogs and leaves behind 4 of her “babies” who are now in loving homes. Other strays she fostered were people down on their luck, housing them and feeding them until they could get back on their feet. As a devoted AA member, she sponsored many to recovery.Linda is preceded in death by her beloved husband Everett C. Price. She leaves behind a sister, Julia Wahl, niece Elizabeth Wahl and nephews Christopher Wahl and Robert Wahl. Linda also leaves behind numerous cousins and friends she touched with her love and generosity.A graveside service to celebrate Linda's life will be held at Greenwood Memory Lawn cemetery, December 21, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to any small dog rescue group in honor of Linda's lifelong dedication to helping others.The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers and medical staff who provided compassionate care to Linda during her final days. Linda's presence in our lives was a loving blessing, and her memory will live on in our hearts forever. She will be missed very much. 

Dale Michael Walters of Phoenix, Arizona, passed away on Dec. 7 after a year-long battle with cancer.  Dale was born Oct. 6, 1951 in Scranton, Pa. to Helen Walter. Dale graduated from Scranton Technical High School. Shortly after high school, he spent six years in the United States Army in both active duty and reserves. Dale worked for Scranton’s Department of Public Safety in the street lighting department and as a truck driver for Air Delivery Service. Dale is survived by Mary Baryla Walters, his wife of 44 years; several brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, two nieces, their families and several cousins.  Dale and Mary moved to Arizona in 1986 where he worked at Fluoresco Lighting for a short time, then returned to driving trucks of various sizes locally for Overnite Transportation, which was later bought by UPS Freight. A service will be held at The National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona on Jan 19, 2024 at 12:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that gifts be directed to: HALO Animal Rescue, 3227 E. Bell Rd Ste. D151, Phoenix, Arizona 85032 or your local Humane Society.

Donald R. Best (96) passed into the loving arms of his Savior on December 1, 2023. Don was born on September 14, 1927 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the son of Joseph and Edna Best. After High School, he attended Marquette University in Wisconsin, then proceeded to obtain a degree in accounting, eventually passing his CPA certification. He married his high school sweetheart Carla Klemm in April of 1949, then entered the army and served two years in Korea, attaining the rank of Master Sargent. Returning to civilian life, he entered the accounting and controlling business world, and raised his two daughters, Pamela and Jennifer. Don became active in church Bible study and support groups in mid-life, leading and facilitating many groups and serving as the volunteer accountant for the Overcomers organization. He mentored and assisted many in recovery through his years of ministry. Don put a high priority on his family, molding and imparting wisdom at family dinners, planning and enjoying many road trip vacations. For 70 years, he was a loving and devoted husband to Carla. Don was an accomplished musician, playing both the accordion and organ, and also sang in church choirs and cantatas. He performed the low bass part of Caiaphas in a local theater production of Jesus Christ Superstar. He sought to pray and serve the Lord in whatever capacity he was in, until his work on earth was done.  Don was preceded in death by his wife Carla and brother Ken, and is survived by his two daughters and their husbands, Greg and Pamela Wilburn, Gus and Jennifer Nopoulos, three grandchildren, Jared, Taryn, and Alexandra, and four great grandchildren. A private military honor ceremony will be held for him at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona. 

Don Michelson age 85 of Sun City, Arizona went to be with his Lord peacefully Wednesday November 29, 2023. Don was born March 4, 1938 in Valley City, North Dakota. In reflecting on his legacy, we’ll remember him as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, a dedicated educator, and a friend to all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life well-lived, marked by his love for Christ, kindness, generosity, and a profound impact on the lives of those he touched. Don is survived by his wife Darlene who he cherished for 63 years. Don leaves behind his 4 children and their spouses, Brent (Marty) Michelson, Tammy (Michael) Harn, Brad (Robin) Michelson, Marty (Robyn Riley) Michelson; 12 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren; and his siblings Janet Greer, Ralph Michelson and Marlys Burke. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation in Donald Michelson's memory to Northwest Nazarene University for the Don & Darlene Michelson Family Scholarship and/or the Don & Darlene Michelson Family Ministerial Scholarship. Checks made payable to Northwest Nazarene University can be mailed to NNU Office of University Advancement, 623 S University Blvd, Nampa, ID 83686. Please designate on the memo line the specific scholarship. You can also give online via NNU's website, www.nnu.edu/give.Celebration of Life Saturday December 9, 202311:00 a.m.Sun City Church of the Nazarene 14636 N Del Webb BlvdSun City, AZ 85351

Curtis Earl Faulk, a proud veteran of the US Army, passed away November 27, 2023, at his home in Sun City West, Arizona. He was born June 13, 1939, in Slocomb, Alabama to Alvie and Christian (Sasser) Faulk and was the youngest of 7 children.At the age of 20, Curtis enlisted in the Army. He valued this service highly and attained the rank of Sergeant First Class before retiring in 1980. As part of his military career and service, Curtis achieved many military awards and decorations to include: Good Conduct Medal (6), Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/ Palm, Meritorious Unit Commendation w/ 1st Oakleaf Cluster, Vietnam Service medal w/ 2 Bronze Service Stars, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal w/ 60 Device, Army Commendation Medal, and Vietnam Civic Action Medal. He liked to say he had been to more countries than states during his time in the service. After retiring from the Army, Curtis entered the Civil Service as a Safety Manager where he spent the next 20 years. Curtis was a strong believer in higher education and acquired the lofty degree of PHD at the age of 63!Curtis was known for his witty jokes and patriotism; everywhere he went he was sure to fix and/or replace American flags he felt were being flown improperly. He loved his family, friends, and animals dearly. Curtis was an avid Alabama Crimson Tide Football fan and enjoyed travelling with his wife, Eddie, whom he wed in 2006.Curtis is survived by his wife, Edna Faulk; three daughters: Loretta (Dan) Woody of Pueblo West, CO; Carol (Dan) Buttice of Oregon; and Candace (Scott) Little of Arizona; six grandchildren & six great-grandchildren: Christopher (Karlee), William & Thaddeous Faulk; Brittany Johnson; Joe (Tasha), Piper & Cooper Buttice; Jason (Angie), Sophia & Emery Buttice; Courtney Little; Cody (Kelli) Little.He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, and sisters.Roll Tide!Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the Military Graveside Service held at The National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona on Thursday, December 28, 2023 at 10:00 a.m.In lieu of flowers, please consider planting a tree or making a donation to a local VFW or The Cancer Society in memory of Curtis.

Glen Dwight Davis went to his heavenly home on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and Christian leader. Glen is survived by his wife of 54 years, Mary (Cumberledge) Davis, his daughters Christy (Thad) Dedios and Lisa (Ken) Carden, his sons Jason (Elizabeth)Davis and Jeremy Davis; grandchildren Jessica (Garett) Rowlett, Ben (Grace) Carden, Caleigh Carden, Andrew Carden, Devin Dedios, Ethan Davis, Aidan Davis, Declan Davis, his brothers R.E. (Diane) Davis and Bill Davis. He was preceded in death by his father Ralph Davis, his mother Dorothy Davis, his brother Jesse Davis and his sister-in-law Betty Davis.  Glen was born on July 23rd, 1944 in St. Joe, Arkansas. After graduating from St. Joe High School in 1962 as Salutatorian, he attended College of the Ozarks near Branson, MO graduating in 1964. He then attended the University of Arkansas graduating in 1967 with his Bachelor of Science in agricultural engineering. Glen began working for John Deere in Waterloo, Iowa in 1967. Glen enlisted in the US Navy in 1968 where he proudly served his country aboard the USS John F Kennedy aircraft carrier and across several duty stations.  Following his time in the Navy, Glen continued his career with John Deere and in 1978, founded Iowa Laser Technology with Arvid Washeck. Over the next few years, they brought on Paul Kuhns and Mark Baldwin as owners and the four grew Iowa Laser into an incredibly successful company with clients such as John Deere, Caterpillar, Ford and many others. They sold the company in 2012 completing their American Dream.  Glen was very active in their congregation at the Cedarloo Church of Christ and truly felt his calling in life was to help others and lead them to Christ.  In lieu of flowers or monetary gifts please consider donating to:Orphanslifeline.org/donate