KOSTANT, Eli David, 80, of Tucson, AZ, died September 29, 1997. He was born in New York City, NY, moved to Phoenix in 1946 and to Tucson in 1980. Eli served in the United States Army – WW II and is a retired career employee from the Arizona Department of Economic Security. Survived by wife, Doris Kostant (Tucson, AZ); daughter, Susan Kostant (San Jose, CA); son, Ralph Kostant (Valley Village, CA; grandchildren, Elana, Aaron, Sara, Esther, Elise and Nathan Kostant; brother, Murray Kostant (New York, NY); and six grandchildren. Graveside Services, Bethel Israel Cemetery, 305 South 35th Avenue, Phoenix, Wednesday, October 1 at 9:30 a.m. Contributions to Charity of choice. Arrangements by Sinai Mortuary of Arizona, (602) 248-0030.
LEEDOM, Jack Williams ”Jock-A-Mo, ” age 73, a Saddlebrook resident, died September 27, 1997. He was born April 14, 1924 in Lincoln, Nebraska. He graduated from the University of Nebraska. He served in the Second World War as a paratrooper and in the Korean War. Jack was an Executive Vice President of the First Tier Bank in Omaha, NE, before he retired at the age of 58. He was an avid Nebraska Cornhusker fan. Jack is survived by his devoted wife, Margaret (Marge); loving daughter, Pamela Tomps (Andy); caring son, Craig (Susan); beloved grandchildren, Erik, Nicole, Adam, Cory Tomps and Craig II (Sylvia), Heather (Ryan), Stacie Leedom; one adorable great-grandson, Christian; and nephew, Steven Finley. Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Tracey and Blanche Leedom; sister, Betty Finley; and brother-in-law, Ted Finley.Graveside services will be held Thursday, October 2, at Evergreen Cemetery at 11:00 a.m. Family suggests contributions to be made to the Hospice Family Care or the Humane Society in lieu of flowers. Arrangements by ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Avalon Chapel, 8090 N. Northern Ave. at Magee.
Martin P. Lester, Age 81, a 19 year resident of Tucson, passed away September 26, 1997. Born September 22, 1916 in Fredricksburg, Iowa and a resident of Cedar Falls, Iowa until moving to Tucson. Martin was a U.S. Army Sergeant in WW II, a U.S. Postal rural mail carrier and active in the local Masonic organizations. Martin is survived by his wife of 52 years, Dorothy; sons, John (Becky) and Gene Lester; daughters, Gwen (David) Moore and Joan Lester; six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. A Memorial Service will be held at EAST LAWN PALMS MORTUARY, 5801 E. Grant Road, Tucson, AZ 85712 at 5:00 p.m., Thursday, October 2, 1997. Burial will be in Iowa. Donations in the memory of Martin P. Lester may be made to Clothe-A-Child Foundation of the Sabbar Shrine Temple, 450 S. Tucson Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85719. The family are grateful for the fine quality of life care provided by Tucson’s Gambo Health Care and his Doctors.
LUDOVICI, Peter P., 77 years old, died Sunday, September 28, 1997 in Tucson, survived by Lucy Ludovici of Tucson; three sons, Ralph (Claudia) Ludovici, Simsbury, CT, Paul (Marguerite) Ludovici of Vail, AZ, Joseph Ludovici of Tucson, AZ; two daughters, Jo Ann Ludovici of Mar Vista, CA, Lisa Ludovici of Van Nuys, CA; seven grandchildren. Mass for Mr. Ludovici will be said at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, October 2, 1997 at St. Cyril’s Catholic Church, 4725 E. Pima. Friends may call from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday at WOLFREY PEACE CHAPEL, 5225 E. Speedway, where Vigil Services will, be said at 7:30 p.m. Family suggest Memorials may be made to Carondelet St. Joseph’s Hospice.
PLAISANCE, Charlotte F., 83, of Tucson, died September 30, 1997. She is survived by her daughter, Cynthia Plaisance of Los Angeles. Charlotte was preceded in death by her husband, Harvey, and her son, Jerry. At Charlotte’s request, no services will be held. Arrangements by EAST LAWN PALMS MORTUARY.
SPIVA, Norine C., 79, of Benson and formerly of Phoenix and Tucson, died September 29, 1997. Preceded in death by loving husband, Samuel; survived by children, Michael (Jill) Spiva of IA, Lucille Simmons of Lake Havasu, Samuel (Linda) Spiva of IL, Joyce (Emmitt) Roberts of Benson, Jackie (Ron) Naegle of Benson, 13 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and a host of friends. Services will be held 10:00 a.m. Thursday at VALLEY FUNERAL HOME, 2545 N. Tucson Blvd., (1 1/2 blocks N. of Grant Rd.) 327-6341. Memorial contributions may be made to either TMC Hospice or Hospice of the Valley in Phoenix. Services conducted by VALLEY FUNERAL HOME.
Ivaline ”Nikki” Combs, 72, lost a hard fought three year battle with cancer on September 23, 1997. She was preceded in death by her husband, John, on September 13, 1997. She is survived by four children; Rick Hammock (Kristen) of Indianapolis, IN, Doug Combs of Montgomery, AL, Nancy Combs of Dayton, OH and Tracy Combs Perez (Anthony) of Tucson; eight grandchildren, Christopher Hammock of Albuquerque, Jennifer Hammock of San Antonio, Nicolas Hammock of Indianapolis, Creighton New Farmer of Montgomery, Cambria Combs of Montgomery, Colbi Combs of Montgomery, T. J. Perez of Tucson, Travis Perez of Tucson; and a sister, V. M. ”Pat” Purdy-Seidler (Art) of Corona, CA. Nikki was born and raised in Salina, KS and after traveling around the country and Puerto Rico, she settled in Southern California, working for a subsidiary of MM Sundt at Vanderberg AFB. She was transferred to Sierra Vista in the mid 60's and eventually Tucson working in Sundt’s headquarters in 1967. Later she spent 10+ years with Dr. James J. Wong, DDS, as his receptionist and bookkeeper. She was very active in the Tucson Civitan Club for more than 12 years. She carried on a life long love affair with her numerous Dachshunds and they traveled with she and John in their many years of motor homing. A Memorial Service will be held in the EAST LAWN PALMS MORTUARY CHAPEL, 5801 E. Grant Rd., at 3:00 p.m. on October 4, 1997 with Rev. Tim Coop, Pantano Christian Church officiating. Inurnment of both John and Nikki will follow at East Lawn Palms Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Tucson Medical Center Hospice. Arrangements by HEATHER MORTUARY, 1040 N. Columbus Blvd. (at Speedway).
KARDEL, William C. (Bill), age 69, 30 year resident of Tucson, died peacefully September 28, 1997. He is survived by loving wife of 44 years, Joan; and three wonderful children, Barbara Carroll (Bill) of Tucson, Stuart (Carolyn) of Bullhead City, AZ and Scott (Alydia) of Wichita, Kansas. Three grandchildren also survive, Matt and Katie Carroll of Tucson and Sara Kardel of Wichita. Bill retired from Pima Savings in 1991. Memorial donations may be made to the Tohono Chul Park or to your favorite charity. At his request there will be no services. Arrangements by ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Avalon Chapel, 8090 N. Northern Ave. at Magee.
KING, Emily, five months, died September 26, 1997 in Tucson. Survived by parents, Jefferson and Jennifer King of Tucson; grandparents, Wayne and Nancy Younger of Marana, AZ, Edward and Frances Smith of Holden, MO, Joseph and Cindy Estep of Tacoma, Washington; great-grandparents, William and Frances Ross, Tucson, AZ. Graveside Services for Emily King will be held at 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 1, 1997 at Evergreen Cemetery, 3115 N.Oracle. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to SIDS Research. Arrangements by WOLFREY PEACE CHAPEL, 881-0338.
MEREDITH, Margaret (”Meg”) Rose, 54, died on September 26, 1997. She was born February 7, 1943 in Clay Center, Kansas, and moved to Tucson in 1968. She is survived by her husband, Dr. Keith Meredith; and three sons, Kurt (Portland, OR), Mark (Switzerland), and Scott (Tucson, AZ). She is also survived by her parents, Milo and Pauline Meek; and three brothers, Palmer, Ben, and Tom Meek. An educator by training, she graduated with honors from Kansas State University in 1964. She taught in the public schools of Manhattan, KS, and Marana, AZ. Meg was Coordinator of St.Andrew’s Presbyterian Church Children’s Programs from 1981 to 1986 and served as Director of St. Andrew’s Pre-School from 1981 to 1995. She participated in the development of kindergarten curriculum materials for the national Presbyterian Church and was a team writer for training modules in Management for Early Childhood Program Directors for Central Arizona College. However, Meg’s primary mission in life was as a disciple of God. She was a charter member of Tortolita Presbyterian Church and had served in many offices in Presbyterian Churches including being ordained as an Elder at St. Andrew’s. She was blessed with the ability to love and be loved. A memorial service will be held at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 750 W. Chapala Dr. on Thursday, October 2nd at 5:00 p.m. followed by a reception. Instead of flowers, memorial gifts may be designated to either Tortolita Presbyterian Church, 10710 Thornydale Road, 85742, or St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 750 W. Chapala Dr., 85704. Arrangements by ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Avalon Chapel, 8090 N. Northern Ave. at Magee.
PALACIOS, Mary Theresa, 53, passed away on Monday, September 29, 1997. Born April 24th, 1944 in Tucson, AZ. Preceded in death by her husband, Edward C. Palacios; parents, Clayde C. and Julia L. Vega; brother, Anthony F. Vega; and nephew, Manuel R. Vega. She is survived by sons, Edward (Martha) and Robert (Sonia) Palacios; four grandchildren, Robert, Edward, Alexis, and Andrea; brothers, Robert (Sandra), George (Glenda) Vega; sister-in-law, Pat Vega; also survived by many nephews, nieces and godchildren. She was a graduate of Salpointe Catholic and the University o;f Arizona. She has finally succumbed to a long standing illness. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 1, 1997 from 6:L00 to 10:00 p.m. at CARRILLO’S TUCSON MORTUARY, (South Chapel), 240 S. Stone Ave., with Rosary recited at 7:00 p.m. Mass will be held on Thursday, October 2, 1997 at St.Augustine Cathedral, 192 South Stone Ave., at 10:30 a.m. Interment to follow at Holy Hope Cemetery. Arrangements by CARRILLO’S TUCSON MORTUARY, INC.
ROEMER, Jeanne U., 69 years old, died September 26, 1997 in Tucson. Survived by sons, Bill and Bob; daughters-in-law, Earlene and Kelly; grandsons, Christopher, Matthew, Timothy and Daniel. ”The time of my departure has come, I have fought the good Fight; I have completed the course; I have kept the Faith.” Memorial Services will be in Cincinnati, OH. In lieu of flowers contributions to your favorite Charity are appreciated. Arrangements by WOLFREY PEACECHAPEL, 5225 E. Speedway, Tucson, AZ. 881-0338.
CRIGER, Thora, 89, died September 27, 1997. Mrs. Criger was preceded in death by her husband, Robert T. Criger. Mother of Robert B. (Mary) Criger of Utah; Jeanette (Boyd) Done of Tucson; Verlene (Wally) Butler of Tucson; and Gerald L. (Sara) Criger of Texas; sister of William H. Young of Tucson; Ronal Young of Nevada, Mae Hickman of Colorado; and Odeen Wynne of Thatcher, AZ; 17 grandchildren; and 30 great-grandchildren also survive. Funeral Service 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 30 at the L.D.S. Binghampton Ward Chapel, 3700 E. Ft. Lowell. Burial will be in the L.D.S. Cemetery. Friends may call from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday, September 29 at BRING’S BROADWAY CHAPEL, 6910 E. Broadway, and one hour prior to the Service at church.
CROUTHERS, Donald Eugene, age 63, retired USAF Senior Master Sgt. and beloved husband of 42 years of Phyllis, was welcomed into Heaven by his cherished Savior on Friday, September 26, 1997. He was the devoted father of Donald (Tucson), Debra (OH), Daniel (MO), Dennis (CO), and Darlene (also of Tucson); and the brother of Russell Crouthers (OH). Proud ”Grandpa” of eight, Don was met at the Pearly Gates by his grandson, Donnie, who preceded him death along with Don’s mother, father, and another older brother, Jack. After his retirement from the USAF, Don spent 17 years with JC Penney & Co., Inc., as a salesman at the El Con mall store. He was also an officer of the Tucson Bowling Association and a very active congregational member of Holy Way Presbyterian Church, serving as its treasurer and sole editor of ”The Holy Way” monthly newsletter. Memorial Services are scheduled for 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 30, at Holy Way Presbyterian Church, 4221 W. Ajo Way. In lieu of flowers please send gifts to the Holy Way Presbyterian Church Building Fund at the same address, Tucson, AZ 85746. Arrangements by BRING’S MEMORIAL CHAPEL, 236 S. Scott.
DENNIS, Betty Jane, age 72, a 44 year resident of Tucson, passed away September 26, 1997. Born August 5, 1925 in Ashtabula, Ohio. Mrs. Dennis was the longest standing female member (42 years) of I.B.E.W. Local Union #1116 and retired from Tucson Electric Power Co. after 42 years. She is survived by her daughters, Susan Jane Smotherman and Yolanda B. Mitchell; grandchildren, John VanHorn, Jennifer Barnett, Daniel A., Dennis A. and Michelle N. Mitchell; mother, Lula M. Tracy; brothers, Elmer (Lois) Tracy, and Leonard (Carol)Tracy, Jr.; eight nieces; and five nephews. A Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Sunday, September 28, 1997 at SOUTH LAWN MORTUARY, 5401 S. Park Ave. Funeral Service 9:00 a.m., Monday, at SOUTH LAWN MORTUARY CHAPEL. Burial will follow at South Lawn Cemetery. Family requests donations be made to the Tucson Community Food Bank.
EBLING, Iverene M., 76, died September 27, 1997. Preceded in death by her husband, George K. Ebling. Survived by her loving daughter and son, Nancy Hubbard, James Ebling; grandchildren, Patrick McHenry, Tammy (David) Vineyard, Jonathan Ramsey, and Christina Jones; great-grandchildren, Damon Vineyard and Dusty, Billy, and Casey Jones; brother, Gordon Bingham; and sister, Lillian Brockmann. Friends may call Monday, September 29, 1997 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at EAST LAWN PALMS MORTUARY, 5801 E. Grant Rd. Graveside Services will be held 11:00 a.m., Monday, September 29, 1997. Her sister, Doris Reiff, who died September 25, 1997, will also have services 11:00 a.m. at East Lawn Palms Cemetery. Contributions, in memory of Iverene Ebling, may be made to the Susan Brockmann-Bell Scholarship Fund, Rinehart Foundation c/o Lorraine Forgas, 13112 W 77th St., Lenexa, KS 66216.
KRUPNICK, Elaine B., (nee Broude), 78, passed away September 27, 1997 in Tucson, Arizona. She is survived by her children, Michael Krupnick, Bill (the late Shirley) Krupnick, Susan (Eugene Wiskowski) Krupnick, Max Vosskuhler, two grandchildren, Simon Wiskowski and Sam Krupnick; brothers, Bernard (Martha) Broude, David (Evelyn) Broude, Jerome (Eunice) Broude, and Rabbi Samuel (Judith) Broude; and one sister, Marilyn (the late Don) Kramer-Baumgart. She was preceded in death by her husband, Sam Krupnick; sister, Rita Marvin; brothers, Leo Broude, Jerome (Eunice) Broude; and sister, Mildred Bernstein-Aragon. Contact Weinstein Brothers Memorial Chapel, 773-761-2400 in regard to the Shiva Services. Graveside Services will be Tuesday, September 30, 1997, Kurlander-Waldheim Cemetery in Forest Park, Illinois. Family suggest contribution to the American Cancer Society.
OLIVER, Edna A., 83, of Tucson, died September 26, 1997. Preceded in death by husband, John K.; three sons, John K., Jr. (Jean), William H. (Virginia), Leland E.(Linda); 11 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Edna will be greatly missed by her loving family and friends. Friends may call at ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES September 29, 1997 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Memorial service will be at Adair Chapel, 3:00 p.m., September 29, 1997 with Rev. Stephen Oliver and Rev. David Devereaux officiating. Memorial donations may be made to 1st United Methodist Church, 915 E 4th, Tucson, AZ 85719, or please take someone you love to dinner. Arrangements by ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Dodge Chapel, 1050 N. Dodge Blvd. (at Speedway).
REIFF, Doris B., 73, died September 25, 1997. Preceded in death by her husband, Donald Eugene Reiff. Survived by her loving son, David G. Reiff; brother, Gordon Bingham; two sisters, Iverene Ebling and Lillian Brockmann. Numerous nieces and nephews. Friends may call Monday, September 29, 1997 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at EAST LAWN PALMS MORTUARY, 5801 E. Grant Rd., with Graveside Service to follow at East Lawn Palms Cemetery. Her sister, Iverene Ebling, who died September 27, 1997, will also have Services at 11:00 a.m. at East Lawn Palms Cemetery. Contributions may be made to the Susan Brockmann-Bell Scholarship Fund, Rinehart Foundation, c/o Lorraine Forgas, 13112 W. 77th St., Lenexa, KS 66216
Carlos V. Valdez, 54, of Tucson, passed away September 25, 1997. Survived by wife, Norma C. Valdez; daughters, Trish Valdez, Barbara Valdez, Michelle Valdez; sons, Oscar Valdez, and Olen Valdez; sisters, Tillie Lopez, Olga (Joe) Wik, Alicia (Cayetano), Virginia Nelson, Carlotta Ruiz, Clara (Paul) Lopez, Hortensia (Ray) Salcido, Nadine (Joe) Ortega; brothers, Ray Valdez, Conrado Valdez, David (Joyce) Valdez, Joe Valdez, Martin (Sylvia) Valdez. Also survived by 14 grandchildren. Visitation will be held on Monday, September 29, 1997 from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at CARRILLO’S TUCSON MORTUARY, (North Chapel), 204 S. Stone Ave., with Rosary recited at 7:00 p.m. Mass will be offered on Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. at St. John’s Church. Interment to follow at Holy Hope Cemetery. Charlie lived and loved the life of a horseman. He will be missed by many family and friends. Arrangements by CARRILLO’S TUCSON MORTUARY, INC.
