Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home & Crematory

08/13/2026

Gene P. Byrd, a loving husband, devoted father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on August 11, 2026, after a brief battle with cancer.

Gene was born in St. Louis, Missouri, and created a life that was grounded in family, service, honesty and hard work. He spent his retirement years between Estes Park, Colorado and Naples, Florida where he touched many lives by his genuine presence. He showed by example his values of patience, directness, thoughtfulness and selfless actions to those he loved and those he didn’t even know.

A Navy veteran, he proudly served his country. He shared his love through generosity, careful advice, showing up to help, his witty sense of humor, and always answering a phone call. Gene, Dad, or Paw Paw, will be remembered for the very best bear hugs, always saying “I love you,” and so many other reasons.

His family will celebrate his amazing life in a private burial at sea, in honor of his wishes.

In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to Avow Hospice www.avowcares.org or a charity that is close to your heart.

To sign his guest register or to leave online condolences please visit www.ShikanyFuneralHome.com.

Arrangements are being handled by Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home Family Owned and Operated Since 1978.

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08/13/2026

James Barden Wells, 88, of Bonita Springs, Florida, passed away on August 10, 2026 with his loving daughter by his side.

Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Caroline Duvall Stoneman Wells, and his parents, John Thomas Wells and Mary Barden Wells of Burgaw, North Carolina. He is survived by his devoted daughter, Mary Robin Wells.

Born in Wilmington, North Carolina, Jim grew up in Burgaw, where he graduated from Burgaw High School. He went on to pursue his college education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, graduating with a BA degree in History. During his college years, he had the distinct pleasure of working in Washington, D.C., alongside his uncle, long-time North Carolina Congressman Graham T. Barden.

Upon graduating from UNC-CH in 1962, Jim joined the United States Air Force, serving his country with pride, honor, and distinction for 20 years. While stationed at Fort Lee in Petersburg, Virginia, he met the love of his life, Caroline Duvall Stoneman, in March. They were married later that year on October 19, 1963, and shared 60 wonderful years together. Jim deeply loved the Air Force and traveling the world; he truly epitomized duty, honor, and country—a genuine officer and a gentleman who held a profound belief in the beauty and strength of American democracy.

Following his retirement from the USAF as a Major, Jim spent another 20 years serving the citizens of the Commonwealth as the Systems Director for the...

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08/13/2026

James W. “Jim” Applegate, Jr., 65, of Estero, FL, passed away on August 3, 2026, at his residence, surrounded by his loving family.

Jim was born on September 12, 1960, in Toms River, NJ, a son of the late James W. and Janet Mae (née Dunn) Applegate. He had been a resident of Estero for the past 11 years, having relocated from Pine Beach, NJ.

Following his graduation from high school, Jim proudly served his country for six years in the United States Navy. After completing his military service, he continued his education and earned his bachelor’s degree from Southern Connecticut State University.

In 1988, Jim began his career with the Ocean County Department of Corrections, where he devoted 27 years of service as a corrections officer before retiring in 2015. He also served as a Police Academy instructor and was a member of the Fit 2 Run Club.

Jim was a member of the Toms River Presbyterian Church and was deeply involved in his children’s lives and activities. Over the years, he generously gave his time as a wrestling coach, softball coach, and Cub Scout leader. Whether serving his country, working in his profession, coaching young athletes, or supporting his children, Jim demonstrated a strong commitment to his family and community.

He is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Christine Applegate of Estero, FL; his three children, Victor A. Applegate (Darissa) of Bayville, NJ, Garrett T. Applegate (Taylor) of Estero, FL, and Blair A. Mannato...

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08/13/2026

Elkin E. Escobar, 48, of Bonita Springs, FL passed away peacefully in the early morning hours on Tuesday, August 11, 2026 with his Hunny and his Boo by his side. He loved his little family above all else, so it was God’s plan for him to take his final breath in the comfort of his wife and daughter’s presence. Elkin endured a long fight for healing and better health, and he was finally granted the pain-free eternal rest he deserved. He found comfort in knowing he would be reunited with those he lost over the years, and he was reminded every day how much he was loved and would be missed, and that his legacy would continue.

Elkin’s love and devotion to his family and friends was impossible to overlook. He was always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need and could be counted on in any situation. If you truly knew Elkin, you knew he would bend over backwards for you and did favors without expecting anything in return, but he definitely wouldn’t let you take him for granted! His passion for teaching others the skills he acquired through life experiences was apparent in his work and every day life. He was always learning and teaching himself how to fix and build things and would figure out the impossible every time. He loved problem solving in any situation and loved sharing with others how to do the same.

Elkin’s greatest joy and sense of purpose came from sitting on the bucket. An incredible amount of hours spent with his cherished daughter...

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08/07/2026

Mary Therese Zinn, of Bonita Springs, died peacefully in the hospital early Thursday July 30, 2026. She was surrounded by her husband Tom Albrecht, her three children and her best friend Sherry West.

Mary Therese was born May 17, 1954 in Detroit and grew up on the northwest side of Detroit. She graduated from Mercy High School and attended Eastern Michigan University.

Her parents were Harry Thomas Wright and Della Marie Flaherty. He older brothers were Tom, Bob , Mike and surviving her, Jim. Her late sister was Anne-Marie.

Her beloved children are Stephen (Anna), Jeremy (Veronique) and Katey (Kenji) of Naples. Her treasured grandchildren are Isabelle and Stevie in Michigan, and Zinnny and Hiro of Naples.

Throughout her childhood and all of her life she made devoted, dear lifelong friends, that stayed near and very dear to her. Her bright personality, positive cheery spirit and thoughtful kindness gave her a special radiance beloved by family and friends.

She so loved her family, being with them gave her the most joy! At the family cottage on Lake Huron, that her father built in the 1950's, and at Christmas-Eve family gatherings, birthdays and events for and with her children and grandchildren. With her sister Anne-Marie and cousin Mary Kae, they whipped up fun and special moments.

Her career was wide and varied, beginning with corporate travel, including major international travel to Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe and Hawaii....

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08/06/2026

08/04/2026

Frankie was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and proud great-grandmother. She was strong, compassionate, and endlessly giving.

A gifted artist and true lover of life, Frankie found beauty in the world around her and shared that beauty with others through her creativity, kindness, and generous spirit. She was a woman of remarkable strength who lived many lives, embracing each chapter with courage, resilience, and grace. Whether overcoming life’s challenges or celebrating its joys, she faced every moment with determination and an open heart.

Above all, Frankie was a giver. She freely shared her time, talents, love, and encouragement, touching countless lives along the way. Her family was her greatest pride, and she found immense joy in watching them grow and thrive.

Frankie was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth “Buzz” Everett and her son, Jerry Everett. Also her beloved fur babies Wolfie & Walter.

She is survived by her oldest son, Perry M. Everett (Kimberly); Her furry sidekick Geri; her grandchildren, Perry C. Everett, Kenneth Everett (Jessa), and Heather Saputo (Anthony); and her great-grandchildren, Madyson, Aubrey, and Caroline Pace.

Though her physical presence is gone, Frankie’s love, strength, creativity, and unwavering spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed.

Graveside services will be held Thursday, August 6, 2026 at 10:00 AM in McLean, Texas with burial to...

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08/03/2026

Shirley A. Ruehl, of Estero and Naples, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2026.
Shirley was born on February 10, 1938, in Buffalo, New York, a daughter of the late Peter and Jean (née Wydysh) Burack. She had been a resident of Estero since 2000, having moved from Grand Island, New York.

A lifelong believer in the importance of education, Shirley attended Buffalo State College where she earned her Master's Degree in Education. On August 22, 1964, she married the love of her life, John A. Ruehl, beginning a devoted marriage that spanned more than 54 years. Shirley dedicated her professional life to teaching, inspiring countless students through her work as a high school Home Economics and Special Education teacher in the Buffalo, New York, area.

Her Catholic faith was the foundation of her life and was reflected in her tireless service to her church and community. Shirley was a devoted parishioner of St. Leo the Great Catholic Church in Bonita Springs where she was an active member of the St. Leo's Ladies Guild, the Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary, the Seven Sisters Apostolate, and the Magnificat Ministry. She faithfully served as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion and was deeply committed to the Respect Life Ministry, leading prayer vigils at the Planned Parenthood Center in Naples. Her unwavering faith, compassionate heart, and dedication to serving others left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Shirley is survived...

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07/30/2026

Joseph Donald “Don” Beck, of Estero, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2026, at the age of 80.

Born on April 15, 1946, in Baltimore, Maryland, Don was the beloved son of Joseph Andrew Beck and Agnes Redel Beck.

Don graduated from Loyola High School in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1964. A gifted athlete, he fulfilled a lifelong dream by signing with the Minnesota Twins organization immediately following high school. He played professional baseball as a catcher for the Orlando Twins in the Florida State League and later continued his career with the Atlanta Braves organization. In recognition of his outstanding athletic achievements, Don was inducted into the Loyola Blakefield Athletics Hall of Fame, an honor that reflected both his talent and dedication to the game. Baseball remained one of his lifelong passions, and the friendships, experiences, and memories he made through the sport were among those he treasured most.

Outside of baseball, Don found peace and happiness in the outdoors. He especially loved hunting and treasured the time spent in the woods, enjoying nature and sharing those experiences with family and friends.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Andrew Beck and Agnes Redel Beck; and his sister, Pat Fouts, and her husband, Les Fouts.

Above all, Don was a devoted husband and family man whose greatest joy came from the people he loved. He is survived by his beloved wife of 41 years, Aline Beck; his daughter, Dina...

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07/30/2026

James "Jim" Werkheiser, 81, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.

Jim is survived by his loving children, Wendy Werkheiser and John Werkheiser; his cherished grandchildren, Bri Wagoner, Nat Werkheiser, Theresa White, Scott White, Jason Parsons, and Dustin Parsons; and his beloved great-grandchildren, Parker Wagoner, Jackson Wagoner, Lukas Wagoner and Brady Weaver. He also leaves behind many extended family members, dear friends, and a community forever touched by his kindness and generosity.

Throughout his career, Jim worked in the computer industry, where his intelligence, dedication, and strong work ethic earned the respect of colleagues and friends alike. He embraced a field that evolved rapidly over the decades, adapting and growing with it until his retirement in 2013.

Jim married the love of his life, Linda, in 1966. Together they built a life filled with love, adventure, and family. The young couple first settled in upstate New York, where they welcomed both of their children into the world. Their journey eventually took them to Valparaiso, Indiana, before they made their home in Lutherville, Maryland, where they spent many happy years raising their family and creating lifelong friendships.

Together, Jim and Linda embraced every opportunity for adventure. They traveled the world, enjoying river cruises through Europe, caravanning across...

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