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2011
Mike Horn, 88, of Farmington since 1951 passed away on
December 11, 2011. Mike was born July 24, 1923 in Goodlette, Texas and was
raised in both Texas and Oklahoma where he met his bride, Marie. He is
survived by his wife of 67 years, his daughter, Bonnie Ross and five
grandchildren and five great grandchildren. He is also survived by his
brother and three sisters. He worked as a pipeline inspector for El Paso
Natural Gas Company.
Lecrecia attended schools in Jal, NM and McLean, TX. At age
18, she graduated from Beauty School in Pampa, TX where she worked for
several years. She later finished Business College in Tulsa, OK and at the
time of her death, still had her office as a Bail Bonds writer in Tulsa, OK.
She was currently residing in Depew moving there from Tulsa. On October
13, 2007, she married Richard Huls in Eureka Springs, AR. She enjoyed
fishing, camping and sewing. She made lots of quilts, giving most away to
family and friends. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. She fought over a six year battle with cancer having three
brain surgeries, 25 radiation treatments and several chemotherapy treatments.
She also had three broken vertebrae in her back of which two were cemented. She is survived by her husband, Richard Huls, of Depew;
parents, J. F. and Olga Christine Howard of Depew; two daughters, Annie Barlow
of Sallisaw, and Christy Squyres of Tulsa; one step-son, Richard E. Huls of
Depew, one brother, Stacy M. Howard of McLean, TX; one sister, Delinda G. Butler
of Canyon, TX; seven grandchildren and one great grandchild. Her dad worked for El Paso 32 years at Oil Center, Jal #4
Loading Rack, Jal #1, McLean, Texas, Algeria, and Beaver, OK, retiring in 1983
at age 53.
The family has requested all donations be made to the El Paso Alzheimer's Association and would like to thank UBH Hospital, Dr. Arthur Ramirez, Dr. Branch Craige and his staff.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of New Mexico,
4015 Carlisle NE, Suite E, Albuquerque, NM 87107 or the charity of your choice Francisco Vasquez, Jr., 83, Visitation: 3-9 p.m. Thursday,
December 29, 2011 with Vigil at 7 p.m. at Crestview Funeral Home. Funeral Mass:
1 p.m. Friday, December 30, 2011 at St. Pius X Catholic Church. Burial: Ft.
Bliss National Cemetery.
He was loved and will be missed by his large group of family
and friends. Dave served in the armed forces before moving to El Paso, Texas,
where he attended Texas Western College (now UTEP) and received a Bachelor of
Science degree in Engineering in 1952. Dave and Joan (Larson) Vilven were
married in 1958, in Wausau, Wis., and had three children, Susan, Steven and
Sharon. Dave retired from El Paso Natural Gas Company in 1986, as
Chief Division Engineer after nearly 35 years of service. Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Charles G. Vilven
and Jessie (Owens) Vilven; brothers, Stephen Vilven and Milo Vilven; sister,
Evelyn (Vilven) Bernette; son-in-law, David Alan Nichols; and grandson, David
James Nichols. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Joan Vilven;
daughter, Susan Ann (Vilven) Nichols of Albuquerque, and children, Jovan
(Nichols) Heusser and spouse, Erik Heusser, Alana Nichols, and Julianne Nichols;
son, Steven Vilven, of Thornton, Colo.; daughter, Sharon (Vilven) Neuhaus and
spouse, Richard Neuhaus and children, William Neuhaus, David Owens Neuhaus, and
Jessica Neuhaus, all of Farmington. Dave is also survived by numerous additional
extended family members. Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Lutheran Church.
Edwin O. Williams, Jr. (Eddie) age 74, died December 26,
2011. He was an El Paso native, a graduate of Ysleta High School and Texas
Western College. Employed by El Paso Natural Gas Company and Circuit City.
Survivors: Frances Williams Prasil, sister; Nina Shaitaroff, sister-in-law, and
faithful dog, Molly. Predeceased by wife, Janice Newton Williams, parents, Edwin
O. Williams and Elizabeth Green Williams, and brother, John R. Williams.
Memorial service to be announced at a later date.
Henry was a Hungarian
immigrant, a product of the Hungarian Revolution when Russia invaded Hungary and
many Hungarians fled for their lives. He came to America in 1956 and became a
nationalized American. He took his American citizenship seriously and was
passionate about many things such as traveling, camping, hunting, fishing, and
farming, to name a few. Henry was an outdoorsman at heart. He will be remembered by
all as an excellent provider; a man with a true work ethic; a person with a
heart for life and nature; and a father and grandfather who could make his
family laugh with a mere twinkle of his eye. He will be greatly missed by all
who knew and loved him. Our Henry was truly nature's own. Henry is survived by his
wife, Debera Lafferton; son, Henry James; daughters, Sandra Marie and Jacqueline
Margit; sister, Margit Uhasz; and four granddaughters, Andrea Marie, Mary
Katherine, Isabel Margit and Elizabeth.
Alvin graduated from
Peacock High School in 1954. He served in the U.S. Army from 1955 to 1963. He
owned Al's Sheet Metal and retired from El Paso Natural Gas in 1991. Alvin loved to fish,
garden, do carpentry and keep up with current events. He was preceded in death
by his wife of 50 years, Ida McMahon; brothers, Eldon McMahon and Lowell
McMahon; and sisters Nova Dell Simmons and Bennie Fawn Goodall. Alvin is survived by his
children, Jeff McMahon and Veronica (Darrel) Murray; grandchildren, Dakota
Murray and Dray Murray, Jodie (Gary) Noyes, Jessica Noyes and Jared Noyes; and
great-grandchild, Aiden Noyes. Also surviving are his sisters, Deanie (Jim)
Miles and Sharla (Rusty) Nasta; and brother, Carl (Jean) McMahon.
He was preceded in death
by his parents, granddaughter Stephanie Buford, and son-in-law Richard Buford. Mr. Marshall is survived
by his wife Lavada, of the home; son Larry Marshall of Paris TX; daughter
Loretta Buford of Conroe TX; sister Neva Sue McCreary of Tulsa OK; brother Wayne
Marshall of Titusville FL; grandchildren Brianna Dean and Blaine Gilbert
Marshall; three great-grandchildren; and numerous other relatives.
LOVE
John R. Ballachey, 81,
passed away on October 11, 2011 in El Paso, TX. He was born on April 1, 1930. He
was preceded in death by his wife, Marita Mae Ballachey, in November 2010. He is
survived by his son, John A. Ballachey, and his daughters, Stephanie Martin and
Denise Riedel. He was employed by the Building Company of El Paso Natural Gas
Company.
Phillip (Phill) D. Endom, who passed away on October 26, 2011, was laid to final rest in Las Cruces, N.M. He was 74 years of age. Phill was born in Baton Rouge, LA and raised in New Orleans, LA, where he graduated from Jesuit High School and earned his Bachelor of Business Administration and Bachelor of Laws degrees from Loyola University. After graduating from law school, Phill began his practice before the Federal Power Commission as legal counsel for natural gas transmission companies. He remained in this practice until his retirement in El Paso several years ago. He was a member of the Texas Bar Association. Phillip was preceded in death by his parents Franklin and Mary, his brother Donald Endom, and his sister Mary Anne Brown. He is survived by his wife, Cheryl, and three children: Dr. Erin Endom of Houston, TX, Dan and his wife Stephanie of Nashville, TN and Jenny Estes and her husband Lance of Austin, TX and four grandchildren: John and Mary Jane Endom, and Delaney and Allison Estes. Phill also is survived by his brother, Frank of Baton Rouge and his sister, Beth Cook of New Orleans.
I met my husband at a
party 28 years ago. After all these years he has reluctantly left. He was
brilliant, tender-hearted, generous, and he had an Irish wit. Educated by the
Jesuits in New Orleans, he had a special "edge" that persisted from his time at
Jesuit High School. He graduated from Loyola University earning a bachelor's of
business administration. He also obtained a "bachelor of laws" degree at Loyola
Law School and passed the Louisiana Bar exam. He was admitted to practice law
before the Supreme Court. He is survived by his wife, Cheryl, and his children:
Erin Endom, M.D./Houston, Texas, Dan Endom/Nashville, TN, and Jenny Estes/Round
Rock, Texas, He is also survived by his sister, Mrs. Beth Cook/New Orleans, La.,
His brother, Frank Endom/Baton Rouge, LA and Kay Redman, his sister-in-law/New
Orleans, LA. He was preceded in death by his brother, Donald and his sister,
Mary Ann Brown/New Orleans. Phillip earned the nickname "the toughest man
alive". He would not give up. My everlasting thanks goes to the Odyssey Hospice
care that was brought to his bedside - a team well trained, understanding, group
of professionals who knew their business both caring for the body and the souls
of those who loved the dying person. My special thanks to the Jaime Sanchez
family, who came to help any time of day or night. There are angels amongst us.
We'll miss him always.
Gaylord had an infectious
smile and his influence for good was well known. He loved practical jokes,
telling a story and being the life of the party. Family was the most important
thing to Gaylord and his actions spoke louder than his words. He was born Nov. 7, 1937 in El Paso Texas, son of Forrest L. Scott and Clara Peterson. He was a Texas boy through and through. He fell in love and married Edith Devish on April 4, 1958. Gaylord served 4 years in the Air Force. He worked 8 years for El Paso Natural Gas Company and 30 years for the Texas Department of Public Safety. Working as a State Trooper was the job of his life. The integrity and honesty of his service was well documented. Humble to the end, we all have a story of a life he saved, a situation he defused or a ticket he was never too shy to write. He loved hunting,
fishing, motorcycles and anything outdoors that he could enjoy with the family.
They moved to Eagle Mt., UT on Jan. 1, 2000. He loved Utah and the beauty it
beheld for him. Gaylord and his family were sealed together on August 19, 1978,
in the Salt Lake Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Survived by his loving
wife Edith (Dee), children, Gaylord Jr. (Yvonne), Fred (DeAnn), Cindie (Ron) and
Randy (Cindy), brothers Ed (Peggy), Fred (Eugenia), sister Kathleen, many
grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the light in his eyes. Preceded
in death by his sister Shirley. He will be missed. In lieu of flowers please
donate to the Huntsman Cancer Institute.
She was preceded in
death by her husband Douglas Haig Ross, daughter Kathleen Wilkinson of Atlanta,
GA. and siblings Peter Sheehan, Joseph Sheehan, Kathleen Sheehan, and Carol
Sheehan McNally. Alice retired from El Paso
Natural Gas Co. in May of 1983. She loved her job and the many lifelong friends
she made. As an alto in EPNG’s Choraliers choir, she enjoyed performing during
the Christmas holidays.
Oliver Lee Ward,
passed away on June 11, 2011 in the Sierra Blanca Rehabilitation Center in
Showlow, AZ after suffering a broken hip. He was born July 17, 1916 to Ira
Arthur Ward and Eva Marie Mueller in Sabinal, TX. Oliver came to Cochise
County, AZ in 1937, where he met and married his wife, Lotta Esther McDonald.
They were married in Lordsburg, NM and the marriage lasted almost 61 years until
Esther died in 1998. They had one daughter, Jensie Winona. Oliver is
survived by his daughter, Winona (Marvin) Downs, brother, Jesse Ward and 7
grandchildren, lots of great grandchildren, also nieces and nephews. They went to
California in the early 40’s where Oliver worked at Terminal Island building
liberty ships until he was drafted. After discharge from the service, he
and his brother-in-law, Rex McDonald, opened a welding shop specializing in
building horse trailers. Oliver decided he
wanted to go to work as a welder for EPNG and applied to Mr. Strickland at the
station next to the smelter in Douglas, AZ. Mr. Strickland told him that
he didn’t need another welder. Esther packed him a lunch everyday and he
would show back up to the plant. It worked, Mr. Strickland hired him.
Oliver said he worried Mr. Strickland into giving him a job. After going
from welder to inspector to foreman to supervisor and superintendent, Oliver
retired in 1981 as Superintendent at the Topock, AZ station. They retired
in a house moved from the Benson station to a nice lot they bought in Benson and
lived there until Esther died. He then moved to Snowflake, AZ to live with
his daughter. Oliver was buried at the
Cottonwood Cemetery, east of Douglas, AZ. (obit written by daughter,
Winona Downs)
Tony Grisolano, 77, of
Kirtland, passed away on August 17, 2011. Tony was born May 24, 1934, in Gallup,
to John and Viola Grisolano. In lieu of flowers, a memorial account has been established
in Tony's name at Animas Credit Union.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Doris Greggerson, and
his son, John L. Greggerson. He is survived by his son Vernon L. Greggerson, Jr.
and his wife Amy, his two daughters, Gayle Hart and Judy Courreges, and his
daughter-in-law, Tami Greggerson, ten grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren
and one great, great grandchild In lieu of flowers, donations to the El Maida Shrine
Transportation Fund will be appreciated.
Sydney
grew up in Wickett and Monahans, Texas and graduated from high school in
Monahans in 1956. She married her childhood sweetheart, James Kennedy, on
January 2, 1956. They lived in Monahans, Texas, Gallup, New Mexico, and spent 40
years in Jal, New Mexico before moving to Midland in January of this year. While
in Jal, Sydney was an active member of the Church of Christ and a substitute
teacher in the Jal schools where she was affectionately known as "Sarge." She
also served on the Jal City Council for two terms and loved working as a polling
official during elections. Sydney was very loved, and is survived by her husband
of 56 years, James Kennedy and two daughters, R'Beka (Becky) Kennedy Poindexter
and husband, Jimmy of Spring, Texas and D'Nese Kennedy Fowler and husband, Dale
of Midland, Texas. "Mama Syd" was also cherished by her grandchildren, Kaela
Rampton of Chicago, Illinois; Kendi Smith, and husband, Dean of Midland, Texas;
Jamey Fowler, and wife, Jayla of Midland, Texas; Lara Packer, and husband, Clark
of Dallas, Texas; and Brantly Fowler, and wife, Amber of Houston, Texas, along
with one great-grandson, Aiden Smith. Sydney's extended family includes many
other family members and friends who were a large part of her life. In lieu of
flowers the family suggests memorials to the Allison Cancer Center in Midland,
TX or the Myelodysplastic Syndromes Foundation (mds-foundation.org).
Arrangements are under the direction of the Harkey Family Funeral Services in
Monahans, Texas.
Homer Leland Kerby
was born on October 26, 1929 and passed away on
Wednesday, August 17, 2011. Homer was a resident of Woodward, Oklahoma.
She married Jerry Walker on February 18, 1951 in Gustine.
They lived in New Mexico from 1953 until moving back to Lake Brownwood in 1986.
They moved from the lake to Rising Star in 2003. Mary Jo was a member of the
Baptist Church, as well as a lifetime member Rebekah Lodge. Those left behind to cherish her memories are her husband,
Jerry Walker of Rising Star; two daughters, Gwen Fritchel of Royce City and
Debbie Richardson and husband, A.K. of Brownwood; two grandchildren, John
Christopher Spradling of Plano and Wyndy Ramirez of Houston; two great
grandchildren; brother, J.T. Price of Rockwall; as well as several nieces and
nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Mary Price;
brother, Garland Price, sister, Ennie Matthews and one grandson, Dustin Wynne. Friends and relatives are
invited to sign the on-line guest book at
www.heartlandfuneralhome.net.
William (Bill) Little Jr., 74, of
Eastland went to be with the Lord on March 28, 2011 in Plano, TX. Bill was born December 3, 1936 in San Angelo to William
Albert Little, Sr. and Bobbie (Hardin) Little. He graduated from McCamey High
School in 1955. He attended San Angelo College and the University of Texas at El
Paso. He married Patricia Janice Daniel on March 1, 1956. To this marriage two
children were born: Kathleen Janiece Little McFall and William Albert Little,
III. Bill worked for El Paso Natural Gas for 40 years. Bill and
Pat traveled extensively while working for the company even having spent 5 years
living in North Africa. Bill retired from the company in May, 1996 and moved to
Eastland, TX where he and Pat had resided until his death. He was an active member and deacon of the First Baptist
Church Eastland, TX. He was also a member of the Eastland Masonic Lodge and had
served on the board of the Morton Valley Water Supply District. He is survived by his wife, Patricia Little of Eastland and
his two children, Kathleen McFall and husband Michael McFall of Farmers’ Branch,
TX and William (Bill) Little, III and wife Jane Little of Prosper, TX; grandson
Lance Daniel Little also of Prosper; two sisters, Mary Ann Hampton of Ft.
Gibson, OK and Vivian Schoolcraft of Odessa, TX and several nieces and nephews. Those that preceded him in death are his parents William
Albert Little, Sr. and Bobbie (Hardin) Little. Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church, Eastland,
TX. Peru Mission Fund.
Hurley Dwayne “Nig”
Hooser, 67, passed away April 22, 2011. He was born on November 4, 1943 to
Joseph and Vyda Bowden Hooser in Girard, TX. Dwayne married Barbara Bryant on
September 2, 1983. Dwayne had owned and
operated Hooser Refrigeration in the Wise County area since 1990. Prior to his
move to Wise County, Dwayne had worked for El Paso Natural Gas Company and lived
in West Texas and New Mexico for many years. Dwayne is survived by his
wife Barbara of Cottondale, TX; two daughters, Tami Talmage of Sherman, TX and
Danette Longhenry of Aubrey, TX and twio step-daughters, Lisa Childress of
Drummonds, TN and Susie McGuire of Wink, TX. He is also survived by two sisters,
Mary Drennon of Hemphill, TX and Ola “Tudy” Armstrong of White Settlement, TX;
four brothers, Travis Hooser of Alamogordo, NM, P.E. “Bick” Hooser of Hereford,
TX, Dub Hooser of Alamogordo, NM and Arnett Hooser of Tucumcari, NM; ten
grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Dwayne was preceded in
death by his parents Joseph and Vyda Hooser; two sisters, Ludena Brooks and
Alene Yett; two brothers, Guy “Tex” Hooser and Jack Hooser; and one grandson,
Jacob Herrera. Madelane Amalie Welshans
Munas, 89, of the Beacon House St., Clairsville, Ohio, died May 11, 2011 in
Wheeling, West Virginia. She was born October 26, 1921 in Wheeling, WV, the
daughter of Paul L. and Marie Magdalene Nielson Welshans. Mrs. Munas was an
executive secretary for El Paso Natural Gas Company, where she was honored as
secretary of the year. In addition to her
parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Peter Munas, in 1996.
Surviving are a sister, Joy Thomas of North Carolina; three nephews, Walter
Haleski and his wife Beth of Orlando, FL, Phillip Haleski and his wife Sandy of
Wheeling and Edward Rocknich and his wife Marsha of California; two nieces,
Saundra Heller and her husband Kevin of Wheeling and Molly Blasek of Bellaire,
OH; several great-nieces and nephews and several great-great-nieces and nephews.
COPELAND (Revised version submitted by Mike Copeland) Adrian Eugene
Copeland was welcomed into heaven Thursday, July 14. He died at his home
in Granbury, TX, at the age of 83.
Mr. Copeland was born February 25, 1928, in Tioga, TX. He married Yvonne
Ivy on February 25, 1949, in Galena Park, TX. Adrian served in the
U.S. Navy,
mostly in Hawaii, in 1947-48. The Copelands moved to Farmington, New
Mexico in 1952, where Adrian worked for El Paso Natural Gas Company for 33
years. He and Yvonne followed family out to New Mexico. His brother,
Jim was already working with El Paso and Adrian was blessed to get a job as a
budget specialist early on after the move. Another blessing for Adrian and
his family over the years was that he never was transferred to another location
in all his EPNG years. Living in Farmington for over 55 years was a source
of pride and joy for Adrian and Yvonne. Adrian loved the
Four Corners and the people of Farmington. Several golfing partners were
among his most treasured friends. He almost never missed a Sunday of
worship. One Sunday he would miss was on the weekend that El Paso had
their annual golf tournament. He would come home at the end of the
tournament with a sleeve of balls or a new putter that he won as a door prize.
He did not often win his flight, but was certain it was because of all of those
El Paso “sandbaggers” who played. You all were very special to him. Adrian loved sports
and as a younger man he loved playing softball for the Farmington, El Paso
Natural Gas “Gassers.” He also loved snow skiing all over southwest
Colorado. He began skiing with Yvonne on Coal Bank Pass near Silverton, CO
before any ski areas were built when skiers were shuttled to the top of the pass
in vehicles. They also enjoyed fishing for trout and salmon at Vallecito
Reservoir near Bayfield, CO. After his retirement
in 1985, he enjoyed gardening and traveling. Adrian and Yvonne lived in
South Africa two and a half years as volunteers in the Baptist International
Mission in Johannesburg. He served as a deacon at Emmanuel Baptist Church
in Farmington, where he and Yvonne were charter members. They moved to
Granbury in 2007 to be closer to their two sons and their families, including
seven grandchildren. Adrian is survived by his
wife Yvonne, his brother Jim and wife Maybelle, son Tim and wife Karen and
daughters Rachel and Lexy; other son Michael and wife Julie and their children
Cody, Collin, John, Meggie, and Erin.
Contributions can be made
to the Rio Grande Cancer Foundation 10460 Vista del Sol El Paso, Texas 79925 in
memory of Rudy Boeta.
He is survived by his
daughter, Betty Jo Counselman; his grandson, Joe Williamson and his wife, Erin,
and their sons, Tyler and Devin; and granddaughter, Shanna Manley and her
children, Roy and Crystal. Roy also leaves behind his brother, Bob Gorbet and
his wife, Juanda, of Bixby, OK, as well as extended family. As a small boy, Roy lived
in Mounds, OK. In September 1939, at the age of 16, he joined the Army and
fought in three major European invasions: Sicily, Salerno and Casino-Anzio. Roy and Millie, the love
of his life, were married in January 1945. In August of that year, Roy was
Honorably Discharged from the Army. He and Millie moved to Oklahoma, and then to
Boston, MA, where their first child was born. Roy was employed by El
Paso Natural Gas Company and transferred to Bloomfield, NM. He retired from EPNG
after 35 years of service. Roy and Millie then took
an overseas job in Africa. When they returned after three years, Roy started a
Roto-Rooter business. Roy ran the business for 20 years before relinquishing it
to his son Jim and retiring AGAIN. We believe Roy left us to
be with Millie, his beautiful wife of 50 years; and his beloved son, Jim, who
preceded him in death at age 57. Roy was rich in heart and
blessed in life. May he watch over us from Heaven as he did in life. Roy didn’t die. He just
ran out of things to fix. His family will always
love and miss him.
He was a U.S. Navy
veteran, having served during the Korean War. He worked for the Navajo Tribe as
Tribal Police Officer and retired from El Paso Natural Gas Company. He was preceded in death
by his parents, Ned and Desbah Denetclaw; brother, Arkie Denetclaw; nephews,
Frank Denetclaw, Ernest Joe and Anderson Joe. He is survived by his
wife, Bessie; sons, Peter Jr. (Vickie) of Safford, AZ and Brinskie (Linda) of
Graylake, IL; sisters, Deborah (Leonard) of Farmington, Angie (Carl) of Lehi,
UT, Agnes Joe and Betty Begay; and four grandchildren.
He is survived by his
three sons, Howard, Edward and David, their families including five
grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; his sons mother Bettye Parsons
Stephens and his brothers Allen & Edward Heininger along with an extensive
blended family. He is predeceased by his brother Jack, sisters Sylvia and Jean
as well as his wife of 22 years, Barbara. In lieu of flowers the
family requests that donations be made to the Desert Springs Nursing Facility at
5901 Bandolero, El Paso, TX or to the Yucca Council of the Boy Scouts of
America.
Charlie is preceded in
death by his parents. He is survived by his wife Ramona. devoted children and
their spouses; Joe (and Becky) Cook of Clint, TX, Veronica Cook of Houston, TX
and Mesilla, NM, Anna (and Miles) Dyson of La Mesa, NM, and Michael Cook of
Houston, TX. Also surviving are dearly loved grandchildren Tressa and Joshua
Cook and sister Pat Pavco along with numerous cousins, nephews, nieces and good
friends. Family requests that, in
lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Reynolds Home or Friends of the Cielo
Vista Library in Charlie's Name.
Rosa was born November 14, 1932, in Slaton, TX, to Guy & Ada
Bomer Morehead. Her life held many accomplishments and adventures. She received
her bachelor’s degree from Eastern New Mexico State University after her three
boys were grown. She made many friends through El Paso Natural Gas. Rosa had
many hobbies. She enjoyed playing bridge with friends and family, had a love of
language, and a tremendous passion for traveling the world. In her life, she had
traveled across Ireland, France, Switzerland, North Africa, Austria, Venezuela,
Egypt, and most recently China. At the age of 69, she traversed El Camino
de Santiago and backpacked across Spain. Those who knew her loved her vivacity. Even through our
sorrow, we have great joy in her homecoming in Heaven. We all know she has
packed her bag, picked a walking stick, and is now planning her greatest
adventure! Rosa truly lived her extraordinary life to the fullest and will be
missed by her many friends and her family. She was preceded in death by her
parents, her first husband Bob Gregory, a son, Stanley Gregory (in infancy), & a
sister, Joan. Per her request, her body will be cremated, with a memorial
service in Early at a later date. Rosa was so vibrant and strong that we thought
she would outlive us all. In our hearts, we know we will see her again, walking
through the wildflowers and calling each one by name. Memorial contributions may
be made to Cal Farley's, PO Box 1890, Amarillo, TX, 79105-9985, or to the
charity of one's choice.
George was born on March
1, 1924 in El Paso, Texas to Esperanza and George Demitrios Carameros. He is
survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Narcissus Easterling Carameros and
leaves a heritage of 5 children, 16 grandchildren, and 13 great grandchildren. George was a member of the
"greatest generation". At age 19, he enlisted in the
army
and served his country in the 103rd Infantry Division Company F. and was awarded
a
Bronze Star
His most memorable wartime experience occurred when his company, having crossed
the formidable Vosges Mountains, penetrated the vaunted Siegfried Line and
entered Germany in the bitter winter of 1944. After the war, he returned to El
Paso to obtain a degree in Business Administration from the
University of Texas
at El Paso (Texas Western University) and began a long and successful career at
the El Paso Natural Gas Company. In 1960, he and his family
moved to Paris, France where he was the President of El Paso France-Afrique, a
subsidiary which was involved in importing liquefied natural gas from Algeria to
the eastern seaboard of the United States. In 1965, he moved to executive
headquarters of The El Paso Company in New York to become Assistant Vice
President of the parent company. In 1968, George and his family moved to Houston
when El Paso relocated its headquarters, He retired from the El Paso Co. in 1981
as Vice Chairman. He was a pioneer in the natural gas industry and a visionary
whose career gave him opportunity to work with Aristotle Onassis, Armand Hammer
and many governments seeking his expertise in the LNG field. He and Narcissus enjoyed
travelling the world with family and friends. George's annual Christmas letters
were testimonies to his love for His Savior, and for his beloved wife whom he
described as being "forever young". He detailed with great pride the
accomplishments of his children and grandchildren. George is survived by his
wife, Narcissus, his daughters: Cecille Carameros Shannon and husband, George;
Cynthia Ann Blevins and husband, John; Cathy Carameros Patton and husband,
David; his sons, George Demetrios Carameros III and wife, Nancy and Carl Alan
Carameros and his wife, Lynne. Granddaddy will be missed by his grandchildren:
Valerie Shannon Tompson and husband, Matt; Michael Shannon and wife, Brooke;
Chris Shannon and wife, Lacey; Stacy Patton Sims and husband, John; Candice
Patton Corley and husband, Kenny; David Patton; Amy Blevins Heidmann, and
husband , John; Scott Blevins, Brittany Carameros, Courtney Carameros, George
Carameros IV, Jessica Carameros and fiancé, Andrew Rensimer, Alan Carameros,
Jared Carameros, Reid Carameros, Phillip Carameros and his 13 great
grandchildren. He was preceded in death
by his brother Alexander Hector Carameros of El Paso, Texas. The family wishes
to thank George's devoted caregivers, Gilma Gonzalez and Alfonso Cepeda. In lieu of flowers, the
family requests donations be made to Campus Crusade for Christ, Dallas
Theological Seminary, the
Alzheimer's Association
Houston, and Vitas Hospice. "With long life, will I satisfy him, and show him My
salvation." Psalms 91:16
Adrian served in the
U.S. Navy,
mostly in Hawaii, in 1945-46. He and Yvonne Ivy were
married Feb. 25, 1949, in Galena Park, Texas. The Copelands moved to Farmington
in 1952, where Adrian worked for El Paso Natural Gas Company for 33 years. After his retirement in
1985, he enjoyed gardening and traveling. Adrian and Yvonne lived in South
Africa two and a half years as volunteers in the Baptist International Mission
in Johannesburg. He served as a deacon at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Farmington,
where he and Yvonne were charter members. They moved to Granbury in 2007 to be
closer to their two sons and their families, including seven grandchildren. Adrian loved sports and as
a younger man he loved playing softball for the Farmington El Paso Natural Gas
"Gassers." He also loved snow skiing all over southwest Colorado. He began
skiing with Yvonne on Coal Bank Pass near Silverton, Colo., before any ski areas
were built and when skiers were shuttled to the top of the pass in vehicles.
They also enjoyed fishing for trout and salmon at Vallecito Reservoir near
Bayfield, Colo. Adrian is survived
by his wife Yvonne; his brother, Jim and wife, Maybelle; sons, Tim, his wife,
Karen, and their daughters, Rachel and Lexi; and Michael and his wife, Julie,
and their children Cody, Collin, John, Meggie and Erin. Robert Hudson “Bob” Pyeatt, 83, of Aztec, passed away early Friday, July 1, 2011, at San Juan
Regional Medical Center in Farmington, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Bob was born March 5, 1928, in Clyde, Texas, the son of Russell Mason and Zadie
Eads Pyeatt. Bob and Grace Stevenson
were high school sweethearts, marrying June 26, 1948. Bob and Grace recently
celebrated their 63rd wedding anniversary. In 1952, Bob and Grace
moved to Farmington, where he worked for El Paso Natural Gas for 37 years. In
1983, Bob retired as a field superintendent. Bob leaves behind his
wife, Grace; two sons, Russ and Sam (Lisa); six grandchildren, Derrick Pyeatt,
Katie Pyeatt, Alyssa (Jordan) Webb, Laura (Sam) Sowards, Jake Pyeatt, Josh
Pyeatt; one great-grandchild, Ava Pyeatt; and a sister-in-law, Bernice Pyeatt of
Clyde, Texas. Bob requested that there
be no funeral services. He was a very private man and did not want the “slow
marching and sad songs.” His ashes will be spread at the family farm near
Abilene, Texas. The family would like to
thank Dr. Bill Barkman. Bill was always there when the need was the greatest.
Surviving Paul are his
loving wife of 37 years, Bonnie, of El Paso, his brothers, Earl Varnell and wife
Neoma of Bloomfield, NM and Raymond Varnell and wife Geniva of Eugene, Mo; his
children Cheryl Page and her husband Tom of Seattle, WA, Paul Daniel Varnell and
his wife Margaret of Pflugerville, TX, Tobi Jo Varnell of El Paso, TX, Jim
Varnell and his wife Sandra of Farmington, NM, John Hershenberg and his wife
Myrna of Euless, TX, and Julie Hershenberg of Carrollton, TX. Also surviving
Paul are his 18 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and numerous other family
members and friends. Preceding Paul in death are his parents; two brothers,
Harold Varnell and J.B. Varnell; and three sisters Mary Varnell, Bonnie Crook
and Bernie Foutz. In lieu of flowers, please
make a donation in Paul's name to your favorite charity.
A lover of nature and
animals, his friends and family will fondly recall his sense of wonder and
appreciation for the world around him, and treasure the knowledge he loved to
share. Mr. Bell is survived by
his children, Tom (Kim), Tim (Rie) and Susan (Joe); eight grandchildren; two
great-granddaughters; and his sister, Elizabeth. He was preceded in death by
Pat, his beloved wife of 50 years.
James Kenneth Chambliss
76 of Shreveport Louisiana went to be with our Lord Friday, June 24, 2011. God saw you getting tired
and a cure was not to be. So He put His arms around you and whispered “come to
me.” With tearful eyes we watched you, and saw you pass away. Although we loved
you dearly, we could not make you stay. A golden heart stopped beating,
hardworking hands at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes
the best. James was born May 13,
1935 in Camden, AR to Fred and Irene Chambliss. Jim’s family farmed
Ouachita River bottom until drought forced them to seek other means to survive.
They moved to Hobbs, NM in 1944. While they were in NM, they lived in Lindreth.
In 1952 he went to school with Glen Campbell and played guitar in his band. He married Willa Dene
Campbell in 1954 and was married for 18 years. Jim fathered Gary and Cindy. He married Jimmie Peyton
in 1973 and was married for 34 years and inherited step children Linda Tiner and
Jimmy Don Payton. In July 1975 he bought land, 376 acres in Ouachita County. He
retired from El Paso Natural Gas in El Paso, TX after 11 years with them. He returned to Camden
March 1, 1980 and began the transformation of his property into a cattle ranch
named JJ Ranch. In July 1981 he was interviewed by Ouachita Electric for his
story of how he came back to AR and Rural Arkansas Magazine, featured his story
in the July edition entitled “Listening to a dream”. He drove a school bus for
Harmony Grove School District from 1982-1986, driving the “Amy route”. In July
1986 he worked at LTV (now Lockheed Martin) as a two-way radio repairman. He was named the “Farm
Family of the Year” for Ouachita, County AR in August 1987. Some of his many honors
included; President of Ouachita County Cattlemen’s Association for 2 years,
member of Advisory Board for Cooperative Extension Service in Ouachita County,
Member of the AR Farm Bureau and advisor to FFA chapter at nearby Harmony Grove
School. He was a fisherman, hunter, golfer, bowler, Volunteer fireman, as a boy
he was a Boy Scout and a member of the Civil Air Patrol Jim is survived by son,
Gary and Sharon Chambliss of Gautier, MS; daughter, Cindy and Jack Snyder of
Edgewood, NM; stepdaughter, Linda Tiner of Camden, AR; and stepson, Jimmy Don
and Melissa Payton of Lubbock, TX; 8 grand children; 11 great grand children; 4
nephews/nieces; 6 great nephews/nieces; and 6 great great nephews/nieces; and
one sister, Glenda and Gordon Sides of Lockhart, TX. Jim was preceded in death
by parents; Fred and Irene Chambliss; sibling Sylvia Scott; and niece Debra
Watson The family would like to
give special mention to Lifepath Hospice, Shreveport, LA: specifically Amy
Ringheim, Sharon Moore, and Chaplain, Brother Al VanDyke. The caring staff of
Lifepath Hospice prepared the way for Jim’s transition into our Savior’s arms
both spiritually, as well as the final physical transition. Sammy Fields passed
away June 16, 2011 in Corpus Christi, TX. He was born in Alice, TX June
18, 1931. He graduated from Fabens High School in Texas and also Texas
Western College. He was a life member of the El Paso Elks Lodge # 187, a
past Exalted Ruler and past District Deputy. Sammy was preceded in death
by his son, Sammy Fields III. He married Jo Clune in 1952. Left to
cherish his memory is his wife, Jo, daughters Debbie (David) Hill, Linda (Pat)
Johnson, and son, Ike (Irene) Fields. He is also survived by five
grandchildren, David, Doug, Jeremy, Cody and Aubany and five great
grandchildren.
LYNCH
Fabiola E. Spirek beloved Wife, Daughter, Grandmother and Great Grandmother was called home May 24, 2011. Mrs. Spirek was retired from the University of Texas at El Paso, and a member of the Elks Lodge for 16 years. Mrs. Spirek is survived by her loving husband David Spirek, son Joe A. Cano; stepchildren David,Chauna and Laurie; sister Esther V. Natale (Robert) from El Paso, brothers Jose Valdez (Alicia), Elco Valdez (Espie), Hector Valdez (Carmen), from Los Angeles. Her pride and joy were her grandchildren Bryan and Mabel and Fabiola, four beautiful great grandchildren numerous nieces and nephews. Fabiola was a wonderful cook and enjoyed life to the fullest.
William S. Porter of Colorado Springs, CO passed away on May 26, 2011. He was born on January 30, 1950. William S. Porter’s primary love was Christ manifested through his heart for helping others. This was exemplified through his local outreach and service as a Sunday School teacher, deacon, and church treasurer. Bill was married to Zenda K. Porter and had two sons, Billy and Chris Porter. He strived daily to love his wife like Christ loves the church. As a father, he built a foundation of spirituality in his boys. Finally, his hobbies included working on Jeeps, enjoying his dogs, nature, and the pursuit of knowledge.
“I have fought
the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” II Timothy 4:7
She will be great missed
by all her dearly loved friends and family. In lieu of flowers, donations to the
El Paso Rescue Mission or to the Salvation Army in Lois' honor would be
appreciated. Walter G. Henderson was
raised on a ranch in southwestern South Dakota. He received a B.S. degree from
the University of Nebraska in 1953 followed by a law degree from the University
of Colorado in 1957. He proudly served our nation as a First Lieutenant in the
Marine Corps before pursuing a career in the private sector. For the next 35
years, Walter served in various legal, administrative and managerial capacities
for the El Paso Natural Gas Company in El Paso, Texas. He was elected an
Executive Vice President of the Company in 1980 and served as a member of the
Board of Directors and its various subsidiaries. During his employment with El
Paso Natural Gas, Walter served as a Director of the Southern Gas Association
and on the Operating Committee of the Pacific Coast Gas Association. Throughout
his career, Walter maintained an interest in the family ranching concerns in
both South Dakota and Montana. Following his retirement, Walter and his wife,
Pamela, moved to Tucson where they were involved in many organizations including
The Santa Fe Opera, St. Philips in the Hills and, most especially, the Arizona
Sonora Desert Museum. Walter served on the Board of Trustees of the Desert
Museum from 1995-2000. In 2003, Walter received the Luminaria Award recognizing
him as an individual who helped to illuminate the path to the Desert Museum's
future. Walter is predeceased by
his parents, Andrew and Agnes Henderson; brother, Murray Henderson; sister,
Maxine Hubbard and his faithful dog and companion, Miles. He is survived by his
wife, Pamela; his son, Dr. Kevin Henderson and daughter, Jennifer McDowell, as
well as their respective spouses, Karen Henderson and Ian McDowell.
Additionally, Walter is survived by his remaining siblings: Howard Henderson
(Sharon) Miles City, Montana, Mary Girard (Joseph) Columbus, Ohio, Gertrude
Crosby, Hershey, Pennsylvania and Robert Henderson (Pat) Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Lastly, "G.P." is survived by his four grandchildren, Sarah, Orion, Kate and
Duncan. In lieu of flowers, a
memorial contribution may be made to one of the following: Arizona-Sonoran
Desert Museum, 2021 North Kinney Rd., Tucson AZ 85743 (Development Office), St.
Philip's Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 65840, Tucson, AZ 85728 and The Imago Dei
Middle School, 639 North 6th Ave., Tucson, AZ 85705
March 26, 2011 at
his home. Mr. Mabe was born May 13, 1924 to Louie and Annie Karr Mabe, Sr. in
Crosbyton, Texas. A 1941 graduate of Levelland schools, he worked after school
at Wacker Stores and continued there until he went to work for Phillips
Petroleum Company in Odessa in 1942. He returned to Levelland and was drafted in
1943.
Loyd traveled the world
with the Army Air Corps and was a
World War II
Veteran. He later became a superintendent for El Paso Natural Gas and retired
after more than 35 years of service. Loyd loved the mountains in Colorado where
he had a cabin for years. He loved to fish and was an avid sports fan, with the
Oklahoma Sooners being his favorite. Loyd is preceded in death by his parents,
Victor and Maudie McWhorter; brother Clyde McWhorter; and first wife Joan
Tappan. After Joan passed, Loyd moved to San Angelo and reconnected and married
his high school sweetheart, Evalyn Larkin, who has also preceded him in death.
Loyd is survived by his step-daughter, Lori Larkin of San Angelo; four nephews
Bob, Fred, Ted and David McWhorter; and special lifelong friends, Tammy Morrell
Harris and her mother, Pat Morrell. Special thanks to Dr. Dusty Anderton and
staff for all their years of medical care and compassion for Loyd, to all of
Loyd's "GIRLS" at the Senior Care of San Angelo who showed special interest in
Loyd's care over the last 6 months and Hospice of San Angelo for keeping Loyd
pain free in his last weeks. The family would like to express sincere gratitude
to Loyd's caregiver of several years, Lori Geary. She provided unconditional
love and assistance for Loyd and support for Lori Larkin. She truly has been an
"Angel sent from Heaven". And thanks to little Audym Geary, who showed Loyd what
it was like to be a grandpa. In lieu of flowers, please honor Loyd's memory with
donations to Hospice of San Angelo, Inc., P.O. Box 471, San Angelo, TX 76902. We
know that Loyd made it to Heaven in time for his date with his sweetheart on
Valentine's Day.
Doris M. Riddle was
born in Johnstown, Pennsylvania on August 7, 1920 to Frank and Margaret (Luther)
Sloan. She graduated from Johnstown High School in 1938. She married G. W.
"Bill" Riddle on August 27, 1941 in Cumberland, Maryland, Given her husband’s
employment with El Paso Natural Gas, the family lived in several remote EPNG gas
camps, retiring in El Paso, TX. She moved to Lakeview Christian Home's Riverbend
retirement community in 2003 where she was surrounded by wonder friends. Doris
was a member of First Christian Church in Carlsbad where she had a very caring
church family. Her hobbies included exercising, crafts and she loved to cook.
She was a very devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother
and friend. It was her desire to donate her body to Texas Tech Donation Program
for medical research. Once this research is complete, her cremated remains will
be interred alongside her husband's at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery, El Paso, TX.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband and a grandson, Stephen
Orr. Dorothy J. Robinson, 88,
of Hillsboro passed away March 9, 2011, at Providence Health Care Center in
Waco. Dorothy was born January 4, 1923, in Dallas to the late Henry Ludwig and
Nettie Bruce Schmidt. She grew up in Oak Cliff and completed high school there.
In 1944, she received her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University
of Texas. She went to work for American Airlines as a reservationist after
college. On December 3, 1945, she married Gene Robinson Jr., and he preceded her
in death October 14, 1978. They lived in Dallas until moving to El Paso for 10
years. While living there, she worked for El Paso Natural Gas Company. In 1950,
the couple moved to San Mateo, California and to Cleveland, Ohio in 1965 for two
years before returning to California. She moved to Whitney to be near her family
in 1978. She worked in the office of Wal-Mart in Hillsboro for many years. After
retiring, she also worked at Marshall and Marshall Funeral Directors in Whitney.
A warm, outgoing person, she was a very devoted animal lover. Dorothy was of the
Presbyterian faith. Also preceding her in death was one brother, H. L. Schmidt. Survivors include: her
children, Dianna Hall of Pacifica, California and Dr. Gene Robinson and wife,
Dana, of Kodiak, Alaska; four grandchildren, Greg Dyer and wife, Denett, of
Tracy, California, John Dyer of Foothill Ranch, California, Angela Robinson of
Oakland, California and Neal Robinson of Aiea, Hawaii; and two
great-granddaughters, Hannah and Abigail Dyer. In lieu of flowers, memorials may
be made to Hill County Paw Pals, P. O. Box 1533, Hillsboro, TX 76645; or
Purrfect Corporation Sanctuary, 133 Waterview Drive, Whitney, TX 76692
Catherine Elizabeth
Davis Arnold, Betty, born to Thomas Frederick Davis, Sr. and Anna B. Murray in
El Paso, Texas, on August 25, 1924. Died February 19, 2011 in San Antonio,
Texas. Her brother Tom Davis, twin brother Bill Davis and sister Cindy Rigney
preceded Betty in death. She is survived by her husband Jack (Cotton) Arnold,
children Jack Arnold Jr. and wife Diane; Thomas Arnold and wife Sharon; Sally
Arnold; Cathy Donahoe and husband Stan. Grandchildren include: Travis Arnold,
Justin Arnold, Jessica Lambert, Jennifer Arnold, Caitlin Donahoe, Curtis Donahoe
and 4 great grandchildren. Betty grew up in El Paso, Texas, and attended
Crockett Elementary School, Stephen F. Austin High School and Texas Western
College. One of Betty's early adventures in life led her to San Antonio, Texas
where she attended Aircraft Inspector School in support of WWII. Upon her return
to El Paso, she began dating Cotton Arnold, her husband of 63 years. Betty was a
loving wife and fabulous mother. She was involved in the Young Matrons, Junior
League and PTA. Her interests included golf, bridge, reading, crossword puzzles
and spending time with family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial
contributions may be made to the COPD Foundation or The American Heart
Association or the Marble Falls Library.
She attended
elementary school in De Leon, and high school in Gorman. She received her
Bachelor's degree from Eastern New Mexico University in Portales, New Mexico,
and her Master's Degree from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Arizona.
She taught math in a number of places including Gallup, New Mexico; Midland and
Gorman, Texas; and Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas.
Through the years she and
Ennis worked or lived in Jal Camp #2, Fullerton, Jal #1, Jal #4, Wingate
(Gallup), Algeria, Midkiff, and then returned to Wingate. After retirement, they
retired in their hometown of Gorman, Texas. Nina's love was
teaching. In addition to teaching math, she taught Sunday School for many
years. She became a Christian at the age of twelve at Liberty Baptist Church in
Rucker. Later, she was a charter member of Calvary Baptist Church in Jal,
New Mexico. She was currently a member of St. Joe Baptist Church in De
Leon. She is survived by
her husband, Ennis; her two children and their spouses, Linda and David Glover
of Gorman and Stephen and Betty Joiner of Abilene; five grandchildren:
Diana Gilder and husband Toby of Devine, David Joiner and wife Mandi of Abilene,
Janice Derington and husband Jeremy of Stephenville, Mary Beth Leach and husband
Justin of May, and Drs. Mark Glover and wife Stephanie of Memphis, Tennessee;
six great-grandchildren: Garrett and Abigail Gilder, Brynn and Sadie Leach, and
Hannah and Makenna Derington; and her oldest brother Argie Hale and his wife
Margie of De Leon. She was preceded in death
by her parents; a granddaughter, Debra Joiner; two brothers Thurman and Gearld
Hale. Her son, Dr.
Stephen Joiner, preached the funeral message.
Wanda Jo Adams, more commonly
known as Jody, passed away at home surrounded by family and people who cared for
her, the morning of February 2, 2011 in Denver, Colorado. Jody was born
September 14, 1928 in Clyde, Texas to Archie and Duckie Pee. When she turned 18
her father gave his blessing for her to marry her high school sweetheart, Bobby
Drue Adams on her birthday in 1946. Together they raised five children. Their
family moved several times to accommodate Bob's career with the El Paso Natural
Gas Company. The majority of their lives were spent in El Paso and Odessa,
Texas, with an 11 year stay in Farmington, New Mexico. Jody was a loving
daughter, wife, mother and grandmother. Her husband, Bobby, preceded her in
death less than a year ago on Easter Sunday, 2010. She is also preceded in death
by her son, Michael Drue Adams, who died while serving in the Vietnam War. She
is survived by her children, Julie Adams, Jerry Adams, Lisa Gooden Greenwood and
Laurie Adams; as well as her grandchildren, Kelsey Gooden and Jared Adams. She
will be dearly missed. George Fred Gorham III, 70, of El Paso, passed away January
27, 2011 surrounded by family. He was born September 5, 1940 in El Paso. He is
the son of the late George Fred Gorham Jr. and Bennie Nance Gorham, and the
husband of 48 years of the late Nancy Elaine Gorham and late brother Bill. He is
survived by his sister-in-law Debbie, brother and sister-in-law Donald and Rita
of El Paso; son and daughter-in-law Craig and Babel of Albuquerque, son Doug of
Houston, and daughter Lisa of San Antonio; grandchildren, Christopher, Kyle,
Alexis, Patrick, Dominic, Travis, Julian, Joshua and Corina, and great-grandson
Dominic Jr. George worked for El Paso Natural Gas Company in the
Information Systems for 34 years where he met many lifetime friends. He loved to
spend time with family and friends fishing, boating, and entertaining at
Elephant Butte Lake. George also enjoyed spending time at the car races watching
family and friends participate. Our heartfelt gratitude goes to his brother
Donald for being at his side until the end.
Carl Leo Jordan, 84, of Farmington passed from this life on
January 20, 2011. He was born July 17, 1926, in Pryor, OK to G.W. Jordan and
Agnes (Landrum) Jordan. Mr. Jordan was preceded in death by his father, three sons
and one daughter. He is survived by his devoted wife and partner for life of 66
years, Nancy Jordan; daughters, Donna Jordan Tobin (Chuck) of Farmington and
Peggy Jordan Chavez (Lee) of Albuquerque; as well as 9 grandchildren and 9
great-grandchildren. Carl
retired from El Paso Natural Gas after 37 years in 1985. He served in the United
States Army in WWII and received an honorable discharge after serving with the 5th
Army Air Force 35th
Fighter Squadron. Carl also received numerous medals during this conflict.
Gifts in memory of him may be made to hospice or a charity of
your choice.
James Preston Thompson was born December 22, 1942, in
Shattuck, Oklahoma, the son of Lewis Elzy and Emily Hazel Keeton Thompson. He
grew up in Canadian, Texas and attended school in Guymon, Oklahoma, graduating
from Guymon High School in 1961. He then attended Oklahoma State University for
two years before transferring to Panhandle State University, graduating in 1968,
with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business. A member of the Church of Christ by faith, Preston was united
in marriage to Donna Arnold on December 22, 1966, in Hooker, Oklahoma. They made
their home in El Paso, Texas where Preston was employed by El Paso Natural Gas
Company. In 1989, Burlington Northern purchased El Paso Natural Gas Company and
Preston was relocated to Fort Worth, Texas. They made their home there until
2005 when they moved to Monaville, Texas. Preston then owned and operated his
own business, Axa Financial, retiring in 2009. He and Donna then moved to Sealy,
where he worked for both Wal-Mart as a sales associate and Faith Academy
Christian School in Bellville as a P.E. Coach for the elementary and secondary
schools. Preston had served as a deacon and head of the bus ministry
at the Eastwood Church of Christ in El Paso and had been involved in the Boy
Scouts of America where he earned his wood badge. He loved spending time with
his grandchildren, family, friends and his animals, and was an avid outdoorsman.
Preston enjoyed fishing, gardening and canning. He also enjoyed all sports. He
grew up as an avid fan of the Brooklyn Dodgers and was very upset when they
moved to Los Angeles. Preston passed away January 21, 2011, in Katy, at the age of
68. He is survived by his wife: Donna Thompson of Sealy; daughters: Rhea Ann
Baker and her husband, Gary, of Bellville, and Natalie Sero and her husband,
Joe, of Austin; grandchildren: Jacob Preston Thompson of Sealy, Meagan Rhae Ann
Thompson of Weatherford, Kelly Baker of Baycliff, Laira Lamb and her husband,
Stephen, of Alvin, Tyler Baker of LaFrange, Sara Baker and her fiancé, Danny
Williams, of LaGrange and Jill McGinnis and her husband, Jesse, of Baycliff;
great-grandchildren: Makala Lamb, Jeremy Lamb and Serenity McGinnis. He is also
survived by his brother: Eddy Thompson and his wife, Jenny, of Garden City, KS
and Goddaughter: Romi Schwartz and her husband, Michael, of Cypress; and many
other relatives and dear friends. Preston was preceded in death by his parents. Friends who wish may make memorial gifts to: The Boy Scouts
of America, Troop #36 of Bellville, P.O. Box 1401, Bellville, TX 77418.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to
KCOS Public TV, the El Paso Humane Society, or your favorite charity. Updated January 30, 2011
Art worked for the El
Paso Natural Gas Company for 26 years and retired April 1, 1996. He graduated
from Cathedral High School in 1961 and then earned a Bachelor’s degree in
Engineering from Texas Western University (now UTEP) in 1967. Art will be
remembered for his humor, generosity and his great capacity to love. The family
asks in lieu of flowers that you make a donation to your favorite charity. Curtis Waitman Ayers was
born on September 28, 1928. He was called home by the Lord on January 14th,
2011. Curtis served his country in the Navy. He worked on the International
Bridge for many years, and he retired from the El Paso Natural Gas Company. He
was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Curtis enjoyed
the outdoors, and he had many hobbies. He enjoyed his grandchildren, and was a
willing babysitter after his retirement. In his later years, he suffered from
Alzheimer's but he still kept his friendly personality. He touched many lives.
He was a good and honest man who took care of his family. He was preceded in
death by his daughter Mary Kay, and his wife Doris. He was a companion to Agnes
Razzano. He will always be missed by his daughter Sherry Myrick and husband
John, his son Manny Ayers, his daughter Linda McDowell and husband Jimmy, his
daughter Judy Crandall and husband James, his son Steve Ayers and wife Susan.
Granddaughters: Amy Locke and husband Chris, Becky and Molly Ayers, Andrea Basco,
Crystal Allard, Felicia Basco, and Amber Crandall. Grandsons: Justin and Austin
Ayers, great-grandson Christopher Locke, and great-granddaughter Aria Badger.
Curtis' family would like to thank everyone who took care of him at the Texas
Veteran's Home. Thanks also to Hospice of El Paso.
COCHRAN
|
Harold Henry Albert Chesak,
93, went into the arms of the Lord on November 08, 2011. He was born in Newburg,
Wisconsin to Anita Chesak. He moved to El Paso in 1938. He worked for Linde Air
Products in El Paso and Berkley. He married Helen Louise Wisler in 1940. Harold
worked for El Paso Natural Gas Company for 32 years, retiring in 1981. Harold
was a member of Zion Lutheran Church for over 50 years. He is survived by his
son Harold James (Chris) of Federal Way, WA; three grandchildren, Kristin Chesak,
David Chesak (Roxanne), Justin Chesak (Yvonne) and two great grandchildren,
Victoria and Joreli; sisters Evelyn Pofahl and Judy Kadinger. Harold loved
family, fun, a good polka, helping friends, and taking a trip in his new car
with Helen. Harold was a "Packer Backer", fond of speaking German and had a
wonderful sense of humor. 
Dixie
Merle Fortenbery, 73, passed on to Glory on December 19, 2011. Born May 27,
1938 in Lamesa, Texas, she moved to El Paso as a young girl. She attended Austin
High School, then met and married Ellis Clifford "Pete" Fortenbery on March 3,
1955. She was busy with five children and was active in her church (when her
health allowed), member of Humble Area's First Baptist Church and former member
of Scotsdale Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, Alvin
Ellis and Dinah Jesse (Lee) Atwood, her son Clifford Lee Fortenbery, her husband
of 42 years, Pete Fortenbery, and her brother, Kemal Shea. She is survived by
her siblings, Jimmie Atwood (Connie), Lilli Mae Heinrich (Al Giron), and Patrick
Shea (Eva), and her four children, Kenneth Fortenbery (Laurie), Debra Bell
(Mark), Robert Fortenbery, and Joyce Merritt (Cyd); seven grandchildren, Marcia
Ramos (Gene), David Fortenbery (Autumn), Michael Bell (Tanya), Andy Fortenbery
(Tania), JoLynn Knotts (Ryan), Zach Merritt (Chip), and Laurel Shilling (Caleb).
She was also blessed with twelve great grandchildren.
Coach
Richards (Gus) Marshall (77) Richard entered into his eternal home to join the
ultimate and everlasting celebration with his Lord Jesus Christ. He was born in
El Paso, Texas on May 3, 1934 to parents Glendon and Theodora Marshall. He
graduated from Austin High School and went on to work until his retirement at El
Paso Natural Gas Company and Gadsden School District. He is survived by his
loving wife of 52 years, Carolyn Neligan Marshall; brother, Fred Marshall;
Children: James (Therese) Marshall, Nannette (Adam) Reyes, Marie (DJ) Hughes;
all of Chaparral, NM and Ted (Pat) Marshall of El Paso, Texas; Grandchildren:
Dustin, Amanda, Jason, Jayme, Brian, Jennifer, David and his five precious great
grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews. Coach spent many years with
the youth programs at Northgate and Chaparral Optimist Clubs. He was also known
for his dedication to the mentoring and coaching the youth of his community. In
later years he was a coach at Holy Trinity School. He will be deeply missed by
many and remembered mostly for his kindness and love to his family and friends.
He was a member of St. Thomas More Catholic Church. 
Betty
Visakay Sawyer, age 82
David
"Dave" Owen Vilven, 88, of Farmington, passed away on December 26, 2011, in
Farmington. He was born Jan. 10, 1923, in Crookston, Minn.
Henry
Imre Lafferton, 73, of Bloomfield, passed away on Saturday, Oct. 8, 2011. He was
born on May 25, 1938, to Henrick and Margit (Varga) Lafferton in Atá, Hungary.
Alvin
Don McMahon, 76, of Farmington, died on Friday, Oct. 14, 2011, in Farmington. He
was born Sept. 19, 1935, in Peacock, Texas, to Aubrey and Lanie McMahon.
Gaylord
Andrew Scott Sr. passed away October 4, 2011 after a courageous battle with
brain cancer. Surrounded by his family he was joking and positive until the end.
Alice
Mary Ross, 91, passed away on the morning of August 30th at her home in Addison,
TX. She was born on May 25, 1920 in Cleveland, Ohio to parents Roland
Peter Sheehan and Hanorah Daly Sheehan.
Eunice
L. McGraw, 83, of Lubbock, passed away on April 19, 2011. Eunice was born
October 18, 1927, in Avinger, TX to parents Nora Ellen (Martin) and Perry "Charn"
Hicks. She had spent the majority of her life as a devoted homemaker.
Celestino
Rios was greeted by wife Mercedes, father Pedro, brother Pete, sister Rosa and
daughter Susana in passing. Left to cherish him is son David, wife Isabel and
daughter Vanessa. Survivors also include nieces Carol Munoz, Yoli Pina and
nephew Alejandro Pina along with other surviving nieces and nephews. 
Vernon
Lloyd Greggerson, born January 17, 1922 in El Paso, Texas died
Sydney
Wells Kennedy of Midland, Texas, formerly of Jal, New Mexico passed peacefully
from this life Monday, August 29, 2011 after fighting a long and very courageous
battle with Myelodysplastic Syndrome. Sydney was born July 24, 1938 to Delmer
Lee (Popeye) and Dorothy Wells in Monahans, Texas. Sydney had just celebrated
her 73rd birthday. 
Mary
Jo Walker, age 77, of Rising Star passed away August 26, 2011 at Harris
Methodist Hospital in Ft. Worth. Mary Jo was born on May 30, 1934 in Gorman,
Texas to Joe Gaines and Mary Elizabeth (Tanner) Price. 
Burnell D. Hennigan,
81, of Farmington, died on August 20, 2011, at Namaste House, surrounded by love
and family. He was born Aug. 22, 1929, in Fairview, Kan. to Thomas and Marie
Hennigan. 
Velma Lee Burks
Hood, 80, of Temple, went to be with her Lord July 31, 2011 at a Temple Nursing
Home. 
Rodolfo
"Rudy" L. Boeta - 67, beloved husband, father and grandfather passed away on
Monday, August 1, 2011. He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Norma,
his children Rudy Jr., Rick and Barbra and his grandson Michael. To know Rudy
was to love him. Our heart felt thanks to all his relatives, friends, basketball
officials and neighbors who prayed for him. We thank the doctors and staff of El
Paso Oncology & Internal Medicine and MD Anderson. 
Roy
E. Gorbet, 88, of Flora Vista, passd away July 21, 2011, at his home with his
family. Roy was born in Bixby, OK to Frank and Bea Gorbet.
Peter
Denetclaw, Sr., 78, of Farmington, passed away from this life on July 19, 2011,
in Farmington, NM. He was born November 12, 1932, in Naschitti.
Lynn
Edward Parsons, 84, was welcomed back into the arms of his Lord on July 31,
2011. Born of medical missionary parents in Peking, China, he made his home in
El Paso for 75 years. A graduate of Ysleta High School and then Texas Western
College, he left his beloved El Paso for 3 years to serve his country in the US
Navy. Mr. Parsons was a devoted employee of El Paso Natural Gas Company for over
35 years. He served as a deacon at Pilgrim Congregational Church & was a Youth
Fellowship leader at Western Hills United Methodist Church. He was passionate
about living life to the fullest. This he demonstrated in the loves of his life
- his sons and family, his friends, his church, his career and his hobbies. He
served as Scout Master to two of the finest Boy Scout Troops in the Yucca
Council, Troop 29 and Troop 59. Scout Master Parsons took particular pride in
working with many outstanding young men through the years and guiding an
exemplary number of them to the rank of Eagle Scout. In recognition of his
dedication to the Boy Scouts of America, Lynn was awarded the high rank of
Silver Beaver. With an ardent compulsion Lynn was an eager competitor. His love
of sports and athletic prowess drove him in all he attempted. He loved to Square
Dance, play tennis, golf, ping-pong and to swim many of which he did into his
eighth decade. This was rewarded by winning championships on local and regional
levels and numerous metals while competing in the National Senior Olympics. 
Charles
Edward Cook, 82, passed peacefully on Thursday, August 4, 2011. Charlie was a
lifelong El Paso area resident and was born Valentine’s Day-1929. Charlie grew
up in the rural upper valley enjoying the river and open spaces. He served
honorably in the US Army during the 
Mrs.
Rosa Clower was called home to her Lord, Friday, February 25th, at the age of
78. Rosa is survived by her husband, Kenneth Clower of Fredericksburg; 3 sons:
Mike Gregory of Grapevine, Tim Gregory & wife Kathy of Odessa, Gary Gregory of
Denton; 5 grandchildren: Kristi, Jennifer, Lori, Megan, and Allen; 4 great
grandchildren: Bradyn, Dawson, Lindsay, Nick, and one more on the way; 1 brother
& 3 sisters: Jerry Baker of Tuttle, OK; Lavonia Mason of Blue Springs, MO;
Sharon Shelton Of Stratford, OK; Mollie Erkenbrack of Fletcher, OK; as well as
many, many friends. 
George
Demitrius Carameros, Jr., 87, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great
grandfather, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on July 17,
2011. He died peacefully at home of complications from Alzheimers disease. 
Adrian
Eugene Copeland was welcomed into heaven on Thursday, July 14, 2011. He died at
his home in Granbury, Texas, at the age of 83. Mr. Copeland was born Feb. 25,
1928, in Tioga, Texas.
Edwin
(Ed) Nichols, 63, passed away July 23, 2011 in a local hospital. He was a long
time resident of El Paso. Ed worked for El Paso Natural Gas until his retirement
in 2010. He was preceded in death by his parents Edwin and Marcella Nichols. He
is survived by his brothers John and Raymond Nichols and one nephew and one
niece. 
Paul
Edward Varnell, 79, of El Paso, TX died Friday, July 15, 2011 after a brief
illness. He was born November 20, 1931, in Fort Worth, Texas, the son of John
Benjamin and Melcina (Hafer) Varnell. Paul grew up in Farmington, NM after
moving from Oklahoma with his family when he was 4 years old. After graduating
from Farmington High School in 1951, he joined the National Guard and was called
into active duty with the U.S. 
Tommy
R. Bell, 73, of Flagstaff, died April 28, 2011, after a long fought battle with
Alzheimer's. He was born Nov. 4, 1937, in El Paso, Texas.
Charles
Reid Gentry, 75, died on June 28, 2011 at his home surrounded by loved ones. He
was born on September 27, 1935 to James Robert Gentry and Fern Alpha Gentry. He
had a 40-year career at the El Paso Natural Gas Company. After his retirement,
he volunteered in the records department for 5 years at Sierra Medical Center.
He is survived by his daughter Jacqueline Grace Guillermo and son-in-law Dennis
George Guillermo of Phoenix, AZ and his son Max Reid Gentry and daughter-in-law
Yvonne J. Gentry of Aubrey, TX. Charles had 7 grandchildren and 3 great
grandchildren who loved him dearly. He is also survived by his sister, Eugenia
Frances Gentry of Odessa, TX. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 47
years, Grace J. Gentry. Reid will be missed but never forgotten.
Gary
D. Lynch, 69, of Spring was born in Hugoton, KS, October 20, 1941 and passed
away June 22, 2011 in Houston. He was retired from El Paso Natural Gas Co. as a
pilot for 35 years.
On
April 25, 2011, Wanda Charlene Moore went to be with her Lord and Savior. Wanda
Charlene was born October 19, 1935, to C.T. and Vertie Harp in Stephenville,
Texas. She moved with her family to Eastland, Texas, in 1947 and graduated from
Eastland High School in 1954. Wanda married Clovis Moore on September 12, 1954,
and they began their life together in Cisco, Texas, with a move to Eastland
shortly afterward. Daughter Vicki was born to the couple in 1955. 1957 brought
relocation to Jal, New Mexico, where they lived for 19 years. Son Gary was born
in 1960 to complete their family unit. Wanda began her college studies and
earned both bachelors and masters degrees in education while working and raising
her family. She taught school in Jal for six years before moving to Midland.
Stanley
A. Nemec was born November 29, 1923 and on April 9, 2011 he went home to his
Lord and Savior. He worked for El Paso Natural Gas for 36 years, where he leaves
many lifelong friends. Stan was a past member of the 
Lovenia
Holder Clements, 78, of Eastland, Texas, passed away April 2, 2011 at her
residence. She was born and raised in Dubach, Louisiana; the daughter of the
late Robert and Bobbie Holder. While attending Louisiana Tech, she married O. R.
"Randy" Clements, upon his return from WWII. Mrs. Clements was a homemaker who
established homes in El Paso, Odessa and Dallas, Texas; as well as living for
two years in Paris, France. She enjoyed playing bridge and gardening. In her
later years, she settled in Eastland, Texas. Mrs. Clements is survived by her
son and daughter-in-law, Terence and Mary Ann Clements of Eastland, Texas;
grand-daughter, Christine Clements of Odessa, Texas; grandson, Chais Clements &
wife, Heidi of Austin, Texas; brother, Howard Holder & wife, Jan of Dubach,
Louisiana; brother, Joe Holder & wife, Rosalee of Melbourne, Florida; many
nieces & nephews; and her special caregiver-friend, Rosalinda Rodriguez of
Eastland, Texas. Mrs. Clements is preceded in death by her husband, Randy; and
her mother and father. 
Francisco
Galceran, 81, of El Paso passed away May 3, 2011. He was a veteran of the U.S.
Joy
J. Tracy, loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother passed
away on May 7, 2011. She was born in Fort Worth, Texas to the late John and
Pearl Jones. She is survived by her loving husband, Earl M. Tracy, sons, John
Earl Tracy and Kenneth George Tracy, daughters Debra Adams and Elaine Janice
Stevens, seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. She is also survived
by her sister, Edythe Sweitzer. 
Pablo
(Paul) C. Acosta, age 64, of Odessa, passed away peacefully and with dignity on
Wednesday, March 30, 2011 in Odessa, Texas. His life was full of love of family
and friends.
Lois
Ryan Baygent, born October 28, 1924 in Barnhart, TX went to be with the Lord,
whom she loved and served faithfully, on March 26, 2011. She is survived by her
daughter and son-in-law Helen and John Toolan; her grandchildren Sean and Kirby
Toolan, Beth Toolan, Cara and Zac Vavrek; two great-grandchildren Shane and Kyla
Toolan; and her brother and sister-in-law Curtiss and Betty Ryan. Lois ran
Baygent Coaches with her husband Raymond in Marfa, TX before working for the El
Paso Natural Gas Company for over 25 years, but she devoted her life to raising
her daughter to be a strong Christian woman and to loving and spoiling her
grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was passionate about Texas, made the
world's best biscuits and was always ready with a cheesy joke or email forward. 
Longtime
resident Louis Edward (Ed) Mabe, Jr. passed away, 
Lois
Ellen Jenkins, 80, passed away March 1, 2011. Born in El Paso on Sept. 26, 1930
to Frances Fay Hawkins and Arthur Gilbert Hawkins. She was preceded in death by
her husband Edwin Thomas Jenkins on November 7, 2009. She attended and graduated
from El Paso High School. She spent most of her life as a homemaker but also
worked as a telephone operator, Secretary to the County Livestock Show and Rodeo
as the "Pig Lady" and as a Secretary for Artcraft Industries. Survived by her
children Edwin Arthur Jenkins, Frederick Gilbert Jenkins, his wife Linn,
Kathleen Fay Jenkins with her husband James Luther Pilant and Lucy Catherine
Jenkins, 5 Grandchildren and 7 Great Grandchildren. She was a Saint of a Wife, a
Hero of a Mother and a Treasure of a Friend. She was loved by all who knew her
and she will be sorely missed. No services are planned, in lieu of flowers
please make donations to the The Lighthouse for the Blind. 
Loyd
V. McWhorter, 89, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Feb. 13, 2011 in a local
nursing home. Loyd was born May 18, 1921, in Sapulpa, Okla. 
Doris
M. Riddle, 90, of San Juan Manor, Carlsbad, New Mexico, passed away March 8,
2011 at Carlsbad Medical Center.
Richard
Scott Sagar passed away suddenly on March 13, 2011 in Houston, Texas. He was
born on May 16, 1947 in Evanston, IL and grew up in Tallahassee, Florida. He
attended Georgia Military Academy for high school. After graduation from Florida
State Univ. in Tallahassee with a degree in Physics he entered the United States
Cecil
"Ray" Fletcher, beloved husband, father and Papa, went to be with his Lord and
Savior on February 9, 2011. A Celebration of Life Service is scheduled for
2:00pm, February 26, 2011 at Hart-Wyatt Funeral Home in Walters, Oklahoma with
burial at Walters Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the
American Lung Association. Ray was born August 18, 1935 in Walters,
Oklahoma to Elmer & Alice Fletcher. He served in the Marines during the Korean
War. He retired from El Paso Natural Gas in 1996 after 39 years of service.
He was preceded in death by his father, mother, 2 brothers and 6 sisters. He is
survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Sylvia; daughter, Terrie and husband
Doug; son, Keith and wife Dawn; grandchildren, Crystal & Jeremy Tharp, Tabatha,
Brady and Keaton Fletcher; great grandchildren, Kennedee and Brycen; brother,
Richard Fletcher; and many other family members and friends.
Nina
Beth Hale Joiner, 76, died Tuesday, February 1, 2011 at home in Gorman, Texas.
She was born April 23, 1934, near De Leon, Texas to Mack and Myrtle (Holland)
Hale. She married Ennis Joiner April 23, 1950. 
Mary
Josephine Holik 1928-2011. Mary Jo Holik passed away on January 29, 2011 after a
prolonged and courageous battle with Alzheimer's Disease. Born in El Paso, Texas
to Adin Allen and Margaret Whitfield Brown (Brownie and Tita), Mary Jo spent her
early childhood in Parral, Chihuahua, a place she was fond of calling 'La tierra
de Dios y la capital del mundo'. Mary Jo moved back to El Paso as a teenager and
attended Loretto Academy and Austin High School before enrolling at Texas
Western College where she was a member of the Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority. She later
attended and graduated from Saint Mary's College at Notre Dame. In 1949, Mary Jo
married William V. Holik of El Paso and they raised a family of five. They were
married over 59 years until the passing of her beloved husband in 2008. Mary
Jo's life embodied the culture of El Paso, from being a Sun Carnival Duchess in
1947 to a member of the Pan American Round Table, to her several decades as a
member of the El Paso Junior League. Her greatest love, however, and her
greatest accomplishment was her family. Mary Jo presided as matriarch to a large
and diverse group which has spread across the country and the world. All that
have known Mary Jo can attest that she touched more lives with her unassuming
kindness and selfless resolve than she could ever have imagined. In a time where
accomplishment or intellect seem the attributes most admired, Mary Jo, or Jojo,
as she is called by her family, became the most admired through her
unquestioning love, her kindness and the grace she carried herself with. It is
fitting that in her last years while she suffered the indignities of Alzheimer's
Disease she was given a nickname by her caretakers that perfectly captures the
essence of Mary Jo. She was called 'La Beautiful'. She is forever a graceful and
dignified woman. Preceded in death by her husband, William V. Holik, she is
survived by her sister Alyn Brown Morton and her brother, Irving James (Sonny)
Brown, both of El Paso, and by her children: Marleen and Michael McCormack of El
Paso, Bill Holik and Jo Runce of San Antonio, James Holik of Washington DC,
Kathy and Armando Vega of El Paso and John and Pilar Holik of Ware, MA. She is
survived by 13 grandchildren: Ben and Shea McCormack; Ryan, and Katie McCormack;
Brenna, Jim, Beth and David Holik, Jonquil and Zak Goode; Adriana, Daniel, and
Jessica Vega; and Steven Holik. Jojo is also survived by her longtime friend,
companion and caregiver Leticia Valles, who like Mary Jo is tireless in her love
and goodness. Mary Jo and her family are clearly blessed with the gift that is
Leti. In addition, the family expresses its heartfelt gratitude to the people
who took care of Jojo: Gloria Garcia, Armida Jurado, Nancy Martinez, Adriana
Oropeza, and Juana Contreras. Thanks and appreciation to Hospice of El Paso.
Charitable contributions may be made to The 
James
M. McCleskey, Jr. (Jim/Dad) passed away in McKinney, TX on February 4, 2011. He
was born October 15, 1923 in Daisy, Tennessee, and was the only child born to
James M. McCleskey and Almyrt S. McCleskey. In 1926, Dad and his mother moved to
Marietta, Georgia when his father was diagnosed with tuberculosis and sent to
the Veteran's Hospital in Hurley, New Mexico. Upon his father's release in 1932,
the family was reunited and moved to El Paso, TX where they lived for many
years. Jim attended Crockett Elementary and Austin High schools in El Paso and
in 1948, he graduated from Texas Western College with a degree in accounting. He
also attended Rice University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology and
attained his Certified Public Accountant certificate in 1950. He served
honorably in the U.S. 
Ross
S. Saiz Sr., 85, of Flora Vista, passed away on Jan. 30, 2011, in Farmington,
surrounded by his family. He was born April 6, 1925, in his parents' home in
Blanco, one of 17 children of Casimiro and Teresa Saiz.
Alfred
Henry Witholder Jr. passed away on February 5th at the age of 72. He will be
remembered as a loving and caring husband, father, teacher, and friend. Al was a
third generation El Pasoan and graduated from the old Lamar Elementary School,
El Paso High, and UTEP. He worked for El Paso Natural Gas Company for 10 years
before starting his teaching career as a fifth grade teacher at Blessed
Sacrament School in 1970. He taught art to thousands of Morehead Junior High
students during his 29 years with EPISD. Al was known for his artistic talent,
his kindness, and his sense of humor. He enjoyed tennis, hunting, fishing,
boating, playing with his dogs, telling jokes, having lunch with his buddies,
and loafing at Caballo Lake with his family and friends. He is survived by his
loving family: wife, Mary Lou Pfafflin Witholder, son, Fred Witholder, sister,
Mary Jane Handley, brother, Bill Witholder, and many nieces and nephews. He was
preceded in death by his parents, Alfred Sr and Hazel Lockhart Witholder. He
will be greatly missed. 
Arthur
John Hammel, Jr., 67, a long time El Pasoan, passed away on Tuesday, January
18th, 2011. He was preceded in death by his mother Rosemary Hammel. He is
survived by his loving wife Barbara of 45 years; sons, Dean Arthur Hammel and
fiancé Holly Leman, Christopher John Hammel and daughter-in-law, Julie Hammel;
grandson, Benjamin Scott Hammel; father, Arthur J. Hammel, Sr.; brother, Terry
Hammel; sisters, Gayle (Richard) Sandenaw, Debbie (Tom) Sandenaw, Janet Alvarado
and Linda Rangel. 
Ralph
Edward Mahan, 80, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, Jan. 19,
2011, at his home in Aztec. He was born on March 18, 1930, in Lindrith to Fred
and Bessie Mahan.