Desert Sunset Funeral Homes

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Desert Sunset Funeral Home is a funeral home in Tucson, Arizona, serving the Tucson and Marana communities in the northwest Tucson metro area. Founded in 2006, the location provides burial services, cremation services, funeral and memorial services, pre-need planning, and ash scattering assistance. The facility includes a chapel and spaces for identification and private viewings. Desert Sunset Funeral Home does not operate an on-site crematory or cemetery. Pet cremation, licensed grief therapy, legal or estate planning services, and human composting are not offered.

Karl L. HeinkeKarl Laurence Heinke, 77, of Tucson, Arizona, passed away peacefully October 14, 2026.Karl was born on Feb...
10/16/2026

Karl L. Heinke

Karl Laurence Heinke, 77, of Tucson, Arizona, passed away peacefully October 14, 2026.

Karl was born on February 5, 1949, in Columbus, Ohio, to Clarence H. and Frances Heinke. He grew up in Bexley, attending Bexley schools from elementary through high school. A talented mind, Karl graduated from Capital University in 1971 with a bachelor’s degree in applied mathematics. Following graduation, he proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1971 to 1979. He was on active duty until 1976 and later served in the Reserves, achieving the rank of Captain.

After his military service, Karl put his analytical skills to work as a structural engineer for commercial building contracting firms in southeastern Ohio. Karl reconnected with his former high school friend, Toni, who was living in Tucson and upon his retirement in 2011, decided to head west.

Karl possessed a profound love for photography and the great outdoors, frequently traveling to National Parks. His lens captured countless stunning sunsets, majestic saguaros, and dramatic rock formations. To escape the desert heat, Karl and Toni spent their summers in beautiful northern New Mexico, a place where they developed many deep, lasting friendships over the years.

An exceptionally kind soul, Karl never met a dog he didn’t like. While living in Ohio, he rescued countless dogs and cats. In Arizona, he and Toni rescued Bob, a yellow lab, and Gladys, a black lab. True to Karl’s adventurous spirit, both dogs traveled with them to more states than most people visit in a lifetime. Karl was also an avid sports fan; he passionately cheered for both the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Arizona Wildcats, and he had the extensive t-shirt wardrobe to prove it.

Karl is survived by his best friend, Toni; his beloved furry companion, Calvin, who never left his side; and his sisters, Sally Rosin and Linda An Savage (Jim). He also leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, as well as a large, vibrant community of high school, college, and social media friends who will dearly miss their daily conversations about sports and the ever-changing political climate. Karl was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Frances Heinke, and his brother-in-law, Fred Rosin.

True to his wishes, there will be no grand memorial service. Instead, Karl will be remembered right where he loved to be. His celebration of life will take place across the country via Parting Stones, allowing family and friends to hold individual celebrations and place remembrances in his favorite places

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Audrey Marie SchumannAudrey was born in 1952 to Donald Alfred Schumann and Audrey Frances (Radeke) Schumann in Chicago H...
10/01/2026

Audrey Marie Schumann

Audrey was born in 1952 to Donald Alfred Schumann and Audrey Frances (Radeke) Schumann in Chicago Heights, Illinois and grew up in nearby Crete. She graduated from Crete-Monee High School where she was known for her free spirit and intense curiosity. In her youth, she was married to Bob Shinker and Sal Patti.

Post-graduation, Audrey travelled across the United States with her best friend, Erika. The two eventually moved to Southern California where Audrey later graduated with an Associate of Arts in general studies from Los Angeles City College.

She met many friends in Southern California who all remember her generosity and kind spirit. One friend and roommate recalls the time when some of Audrey’s friends were evicted, and without a second thought, Audrey welcomed them into their own tiny apartment. She was always trying to help those in need.

Audrey spent much of her life in service of children—first at Child, Youth and Family Services in Altadena as the office manager and later as a library assistant at the Bear Mountain Library. She also worked independently with special needs students. The family’s pictures of Audrey show that she was smiling and happiest when she worked as a special needs aide or when she was with her only child, Ellie.

Audrey was thrilled when she became pregnant with Ellie by her third husband, Thomas William Mraz. Her family recalls the joy that she had with her pregnancy after having experienced difficulty with starting a family. Audrey and Thomas married and decided to leave Altadena for more rural living in Squaw Valley, CA in the early 1990s.

Her new home was in close proximity to Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks, and Audrey loved to spend time camping with her family or playing in the snow with her daughter, Ellie.

In addition to her enthusiasm for working with children, Audrey had a lifelong passion for collecting antiques and curios, though she especially enjoyed salt and pepper shakers and 50’s memorabilia. She co-owned Kings Canyon Antiques and The Domes Gift Shop and Deli in Squaw Valley, CA during the 1990s.

Audrey loved animals, taking her two Labrador retrievers Willie and Lola with her to Squaw Valley. Later, her dog Ginger gave birth to a litter of puppies, and from that litter, she kept her beloved Lucky. She also had cats throughout her life from Princess and Squeaky in Squaw Valley to her last cat, Neo. Ginger and Lucky moved to Tucson with Audrey, and on their passing she was blessed to find a stray, Tootie, that she cared for until she was no longer able.

After moving to Tucson in 2000, Audrey started working with children in the Amphi School District and later ended her working career as the book store manager. She is fondly remembered by colleagues and students from the Amphi District. Some remember her as “lovely” and “kind” and as a “wonderful woman” who “always had a smile and time for a chat.”

In early retirement, she conducted estate sales in the Tucson area and worked part-time in a tax office.

She was preceded in death by her beloved fourth husband, David Bumbaco, who was a mechanic. The two both had generous spirits, allowing them to enjoy each other’s hobbies like listening to country music, camping, and going to hot rod shows. Like Audrey, David was always quick to help a friend—jump-starting a car or spending his time and tools to help people out.

She is survived by her only child Ellie Schumann-Mraz and brother Donald (Martha) Schumann.

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Michael D. HolderMichael Duane HolderApril 8, 1951 – September 24, 2026Michael Duane Holder, 75, of Tucson, Arizona, pas...
10/01/2026

Michael D. Holder

Michael Duane Holder

April 8, 1951 – September 24, 2026

Michael Duane Holder, 75, of Tucson, Arizona, passed away on September 24, 2026. He was born on April 8, 1951, in Champaign, Illinois.

Michael built a long and accomplished career in civil engineering. He began working for the City of Tucson in 1973 as a Drafting Technician and, while continuing his education, steadily advanced through the engineering profession. He earned an Associate Degree in Architecture from Pima Community College and studied Civil Engineering at the University of Arizona. In 1984, he became a licensed Professional Civil Engineer in Arizona.

Over the years, Michael served the City of Tucson in numerous capacities, eventually becoming Assistant and Deputy City Engineer. He later served as Transit Services Administrator for the City of Tucson Department of Transportation. After leaving the City, he continued his career as Principal and Branch Manager with AMEC Infrastructure in Tucson and later worked independently as a consultant.

Michael was also active in his profession and community, holding leadership positions with the American Public Works Association and Toastmasters International.

But Michael was much more than an engineer. Building was not simply his profession; it was one of his great passions. Exceptionally talented with his hands, there seemed to be very little he could not build, repair, or figure out. He designed and built four homes and was equally comfortable working with wood, cars, or whatever project caught his interest. Creating and building were simply part of who he was.

Above all, Michael loved his family. He especially treasured his grandchildren and was always ready to play with them and enjoy the simple pleasure of being together. He valued friendship deeply and will also be remembered as a loyal and steadfast friend.

Michael is survived by his wife, Elisabeth Holder; his daughter, Katie Green; his stepdaughter, Méghan Vines (Nicholas) his grandchildren, Kalee (Adrian), Bobby (Tev), Connor, Charlotte, and Sébastien; and his siblings, Diana (Tom), David (Mariluz), and Janet (Vince).

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Mary (Kern) Holder; his son, Stephen Holder; his brother, Richard; and his sister, Cindy.

A service celebrating Michael’s life will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Desert Sunset Funeral Home, 3081 W. Orange Grove Road, Tucson, Arizona.

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Bruce G. WilliamsIn Loving Memory of Bruce G. WilliamsBruce G. Williams, 78, passed away unexpectedly on September 12, 2...
09/17/2026

Bruce G. Williams

In Loving Memory of Bruce G. Williams

Bruce G. Williams, 78, passed away unexpectedly on September 12, 2026, in Tucson, Arizona. He will be deeply missed by his entire family and the countless friends that he left behind.

Bruce was born on December 16, 1947, in Needles, California, to Raymond and June Williams – the first of 5 children. The family moved to Montana in 1949, and Bruce spent his school years in the place he always considered his hometown - Helena. He graduated from Helena High School on June 2, 1966, and soon afterward began a proud career with the United States Marine Corps, serving from 1966 to 1970. During his time in the Marines, he served in Vietnam and enjoyed his time playing baseball for the Marine Corps in San Diego, California.

Bruce married Barbara Cala in 1968 and started his own family welcoming their 4 children, Tami, Kim, Shannon, and Chet. His second marriage to Gail Graham brought his 5th child, Chad. The brood was complete; they were his pride. The years that brought his cherished grandkids, Bret, Lane, Gabe, Brynlee and Cade, were the ones that put the shining jewels in his crown. Family was everything to him. In 2005 the love of his life, Jolene, entered his world and they married on January 18, 2008. She was the one his heart had been searching for all along. Their special bond was apparent to everyone. Together, they shared a beautiful and enduring love that brought him happiness, comfort and peace until his last breath.

Bruce’s chosen career path was in municipal government serving in city management and leadership roles. He earned a master’s degree in public administration and devoted approximately 40 years to communities across the country. He started as a City Manager Trainee in Helena, Montana in 1970, then advanced into the position of Assistant City Manager/Budget Director from 1973 to 1980. He ventured out of Montana to Twin Falls, Idaho where he spent a year in his position as their Assistant City Manager/Finance Director. In 1981, he had an opportunity to climb the ladder - and moved to Cottage Grove, Oregon to become their City Manager where he remained until 1987. That year in the fall, the family made a big move East across the country to Steubenville, Ohio where Bruce worked as City Manager until 1990. Then the call from Montana came and won him back. He landed in Kalispell serving as their first City Manager. Though he loved Montana, in February of 1996, the warmth of Lake Havasu City, Arizona drew him in and became the 6th community he worked in as City Manager. In April of 2004, after serving for 8 years, he opted to retire. Surprisingly, it didn’t last long. The City of Steubenville, OH called in crisis and wanted him back. He agreed to give them a year to help get them on track and ended up staying five to ensure projects were completed. Bruce was dedicated to public service and took great pride in all the communities he served.

Bruce finally retired from his career as a city manager in 2010 and moved to Tucson, AZ to enjoy the good life. But he wasn’t happy staying idle for long. He decided to conquer another career as a real estate agent, which he exceled at, winning the “Rookie of the Year” award for achieving the sale of one million dollars in homes. In 2013 Jolene’s job took them on yet another adventure to Denver, Colorado where they forged many new friendships and he had time to really enjoy his retirement. When the ability to work remotely became an option for Jolene, they decided to return to Arizona where golf season is all year long. Bruce and Jolene made their home between Tucson and Helena, so Bruce could enjoy the warmth of Arizona while staying close to his family and the Montana roots he loved.

Outside of his professional life, Bruce was a sports nut. He tore it up playing league fast pitch baseball and softball in his younger years. He was a great catcher and teammate, loved by the guys he played with – on, and off the field at which ever bar the post-game celebrations would commence. There are endless stories. Later on, when he discovered golf, that was it. He was obsessed; he LOVED it. He enjoyed the game (had nailed a hole-in-one on four occasions), the time spent outdoors, and the enduring friendships made along the way over many, many years. As a proud alumnus of the University of Oregon, he was a huge fan of the Oregon Ducks and always looked forward to football season. He put out his prized Duck flag every game day. Then there is the love for Major League Baseball. Bruce was an enthusiastic and loyal fan of the Atlanta Braves. His kids were raised on watching them and rooted right alongside him. Whether it was on TV or live in a stadium, there were so many wonderful memories made watching Braves baseball.

Bruce was a master storyteller with a thousand and one true stories that would have you laughing until you cried. His effortless charisma and charm drew people to him wherever he went. Once you experienced his company it left you wanting to spend more time with him. His personality and sense of humor was one of a kind, and his laugh was contagious. He consistently demonstrated his brilliance, sharp wit and resolve in every situation life dealt him, as an example for his children to look to and learn from. He relished coming up with “the word of the day” to bestow upon his grandkids as they grew up. He instilled in us so many of his unique qualities and lessons about life - and they will continue to live on through those of us he left behind. But no one will ever be able to replicate his sweet dance moves. He just had a special kind of cool that was untouchable. Bruce had to be the winningest person in existence when it came to playing machines – he had his lucky numbers and they hit routinely. “Show me the money!” It was unreal. He really loved to kick back outside, light up a good cigar and enjoy it with his favorite beverage of choice – black coffee, or a double Dewars on the rocks (kept all in good supply). There was never, ever a boring moment in his presence. In his family’s eyes he will forever remain unmatched – in every way.

Bruce will be deeply missed by his children, Tami Williams, Kim Williams (Nash), Shannon Williams, Chet Williams (Brooke Standish), and Chad (Kelly) Williams, and his five grandchildren, Bret Haux (Katie Felde), Lane Nash, Gabe (Emily) Nash, Brynlee Williams and Cade Williams. He is survived by his adoring wife, Jolene Williams; his siblings, Susie (Mike) Spotorno, Cindy (Jim) Lieberg, Cassie Williams, and Byron Williams (Roni Dershem). There are also many loved cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Raymond & June Williams, and nephew, Michael Spotorno.

Bruce leaves behind a legacy of service, dedication, family, and friendship. His years of service to his country and to the many communities he called home will long be remembered. His memory is a treasure we will hold close forever; his love lives on in everyone he touched.

Bruce will be laid to rest where his service and spirit can be honored among fellow heroes; at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery, 3550 Heroes Rd., Fort Harrison, MT on Friday, September 25, 2026, at 1:30pm. A Celebration of Life will follow at the Kleffner Ranch, 305 Highway 518, Helena, MT.

To honor Bruce’s memory in a way that reflects his heart and compassion, the family asks that in lieu of flowers that you consider sending a donation to NAMI Montana.

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Thomas Edward ZobakIn Loving Memory of Thomas "Tom" ZobakWith heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our devoted husba...
08/03/2026

Thomas Edward Zobak

In Loving Memory of Thomas "Tom" Zobak

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend, Thomas "Tom" Zobak, who passed away peacefully at his home in Tucson AZ of 7yrs, surrounded by his loving family, on Monday, July 27, 2026, at the age of 72.

Tom was the beloved husband of Karen (Mahoney) Zobak for more than twenty-nine years. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. He was a loving father to Zach and Max, who were his greatest pride and joy. Some of his favorite moments were the simplest—spending evenings with his boys watching Gold Rush and Deadliest Catch, cheering on the Chicago Bears and NASCAR with Zach or simply being together. Tom also shared a special bond with Max through their love of fishing, creating memories that will forever be treasured. He also loved cooking the annual turkey dinner, making stuffing, soups and other various delights.

Tom was the middle of three children, growing up with his sister, the late Joanne (late Leonard) Emery, and his brother, Dave, with whom he shared a lifetime of memories. He was also a caring uncle to many nieces and nephews, a valued brother-in-law, and a true friend to many.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Tom was raised in Hometown, Illinois, before making Oak Lawn the place he proudly called home for most of his life. A graduate of Oak Lawn Community High School's Class of 1972, Tom competed in track and field and developed the determination and perseverance that would guide him throughout his life. Years later, it meant the world to him to watch his son, Zach, follow in his footsteps and compete on the very same track.

Tom dedicated 35 years to the Village of Oak Lawn as an Engineering Assistant. During his career, he managed the Village's HUD (Housing and Urban Development) Program and served for many years on the Oak Lawn Traffic Review Board. Tom was involved for many years with the annual Oak Lawn fest, now Fall on the Green, setting up the venue and keeping it running smoothly, always working to make his community a better place.

His commitment to Oak Lawn extended beyond his career. Tom volunteered with the Oak Lawn Raiders S.A.C., the Oak Lawn Park Foundation, the St. Gerald Holy Name Society, and the American Public Works Association. He believed in helping others and giving back to the community that meant so much to him.

Many also knew Tom from the Homestead Barr, where he spent many years bartending. He enjoyed the friendships he made there and had a way of making everyone feel welcome. His warm smile, quick wit, and genuine kindness made him someone people looked forward to seeing.

Tom was a lifelong Chicago Bears fan. Even after moving to the desert, he never missed cheering on his team. He also enjoyed collecting coins, model trains, b**r cans, and Chicago Bears memorabilia.

Tom will be remembered for his kind heart, steady presence, strong work ethic, and quiet generosity. He was always willing to lend a hand, share a laugh, or simply be there when someone needed him.

We will forever be grateful for the love he gave, the example he set, and the memories we will carry with us always.

Forever in our hearts, always in our thoughts, and never forgotten.

A celebration of his life is planned for a later time in Oak Lawn, IL.

Internment private.

In his memory, donations sent to the Oak Lawn Raiders S.A.C. Inc. 4315 W. 109th St. Oak Lawn, IL 60453, would be most appreciated.

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Harry Eugene OsborneOBITUARYHARRY EUGENE OSBORNEJuly 30, 1950 -- July 3, 2026Just a few weeks ago, we had our first Four...
08/03/2026

Harry Eugene Osborne

OBITUARY

HARRY EUGENE OSBORNE

July 30, 1950 -- July 3, 2026

Just a few weeks ago, we had our first Fourth of July without our wonderful husband, father, brother and friend Harry. We wanted to publicly express our love and appreciation for the man who put us first and whose guidance and support we will greatly miss. Harry Eugene Osborne was born in Tucson at St. Mary’s Hospital on July 30, 1950 and died in Tucson on July 3, 2026.

Friends and family will gather on September 18 at 11:00 a.m. for a graveside service and the internment of his ashes at Holy Hope Cemetery in Tucson. Later that day, we will all gather at Molinito’s (Oro Valley, on Oracle Rd.) at 1:00 p.m. to remember Harry and to celebrate the impact he made during his nearly 76-year life. Information is available at Desertsunsetfuneralhome.com.

Harry is survived by his wife of 47 years, Betsy Osborne. He is also survived by his children Laurel (Tim), Paul (Claudia), Scott, Cherie (Mark) and Melissa; his grandchildren Timmy, Kaylee, Caroline, Abbie, Eleanor, and Lauren; his great grandchildren Stella, Lydia, and Angelo; and his brother Greg (Lezlie).

Harry grew up in Tucson in the small, 3-bedroom house that his father Harry Sr. built in 1949 in what was then the east side of Tucson (the Speedway-Swan area). The family lived on modest means but there was a lot of love. Harry welcomed his younger brother Greg in March

of 1955. Tragically, their mother Martile developed cancer; there was little that could be done back then and she passed away in November 1956. Harry was 6 when he lost his mom, but he remembered her, loved her very much, and was crushed when she died.

So in 1956 Harry Sr. became a single father with a two-year-old and a six-year-old; it was rough going but he worked and took care of his boys as well. And less than a year later Harry, Greg and their father were blessed when Harry Sr. met Lela Goff, who had just lost her husband to cancer. Lela was an angel sent from heaven.

As he grew, Harry showed interest in woodworking and sports. His parents somehow were able to send him (and later Greg) to St. Cyril’s Catholic School. Harry was an altar server, liked school and graduated from St. Cyril’s in 1964.

Harry was then enrolled in the neighborhood public high school, Rincon High. At Rincon, Harry began to focus on (and excelled at) drafting and woodworking. While at Rincon, he built furniture for the family house, including a large, beautiful cherry wood stereo cabinet. After high school, Harry worked at a couple of entry level jobs; at that point he could have gone to college and done well, but he had another path in mind. After some soul searching, he enlisted in the Army.

The Army immediately recognized Harry’s special skills. After basic training, Harry was sent to Fort Belvoir outside of DC for some higher-level drafting instruction, but it was not long before he was teaching the classes. The family hoped he would stay there during the Vietnam conflict, but he was assigned as a draftsman to an Army Corps of Engineers unit stationed in Pleiku, South Vietnam. With irony, Harry described his job duties at Pleiku: “The VC would blow up a local bridge. I then designed a replacement bridge and supervised a work crew in building it. Within days or weeks the VC would destroy the

replacement bridge.” Harry completed his service and was honorably discharged.

Harry moved to the Salinas – Monterey area in the 70s, where he lived with his first wife Debbie and his children Paul and Cherie. But life isn’t perfect and there were bumps in the road – Harry and Debbie divorced. Thereafter, Harry met Betsy Gordon, who became the love of his life.

Betsy had been married and divorced; when she and Harry met, she had three children who all lived with her: Melissa, Scott and Laurel. Harry and Betsy lived in Monterey when they married in December 1979.

In the 80s Harry was having trouble with alcohol. On his own, and without going to rehab or attending AA, Harry quit drinking in 1985. He knew he needed to do this for his wife, his marriage, and his five children. He stuck with sobriety for the rest of his life.

Harry had a successful business in Monterey selling and installing atriums in houses. Later, he became the project supervisor for a contractor who built luxury homes in Pebble Beach. Harry was typically supervising and running multiple crews in the construction of at least a couple luxury homes at the same time.

When the housing market took a dive, Harry and Betsy headed to San Francisco. Betsy became the manager of the Home IV Nursing unit at UCSF. The housing construction market was tough in San Francisco, and Harry wanted to get his degree and explore going to law school. Harry did very well and was a top 5% student in his graduating class at San Francisco State. Along the way, he gleefully jousted and argued with members of an insanely liberal San Francisco State faculty, but mutual respect was earned. After graduation, Harry explored the option of law school but concluded it was not for him.

Harry and Betsy were then ready to return to Arizona. Betsy became the head of the Home IV unit at the U of A. Harry wanted to build and install cabinets. After working for a cabinet business for a bit, he formed his own company, Sazwood. He marketed and sold cabinets from a premier cabinet maker in Washington, Huntwood. His business then modified, customized and installed them in some high- end luxury homes in Tucson. The business was very successful, and he practiced his profession until he was no longer able.

In his semi-retirement, Harry continued to contribute. He built ramps for the disabled. He took the family dog Emma to the VA Hospital to share love with disabled veterans who could use a smile. Harry loved to do projects for neighbors, and they knew they could ask him for help. And he would always help a veteran in need if he could. He was proud to invite the veterans he knew to breakfast every Veteran’s Day.

Harry was kind and had a big heart. But he also was known and will be remembered for his sense of humor. He loved to share jokes and stories from his past. He also used his humor to welcome folks he did not know and to make them feel at home. He was very much loved and will be missed by us all.

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Cynthia Ann WehrliCynthia Ann (Maxwell) Wehrli, 78, passed away peacefully in July of 2026, leaving behind a legacy of p...
07/28/2026

Cynthia Ann Wehrli

Cynthia Ann (Maxwell) Wehrli, 78, passed away peacefully in July of 2026, leaving behind a legacy of profound love, dedication, and family devotion.

Born in 1948, Cynthia was the oldest of six siblings, a role that naturally shaped her into the matriarch of her family. She, along with her siblings Robert, Jane, Wendy, Dave, and Janet, grew up in Minnesota. They were surrounded by a large extended family of many aunts, uncles, and cousins who helped shape her early life and remained dear to her heart.

For 57 beautiful years, she was the beloved wife and steadfast partner of David Wehrli. Together, they built a life centered on family, hard work, and faith.

Cynthia was the devoted mother of Marc (Suzanne), Michael, and Amy (Jon). She was a cherished "MomMom" to her four grandchildren, Brianna, Emily, Kaitlyn, and Nolan, and a proud great-grandmother to Stevie. Her strength, guidance, and nurturing spirit served as the foundation for generations of her family.

Known for her work ethic and her gentle soul, Cynthia lived her life with a quiet grace. She was deeply faithful and uniquely characterized by her endless kindness, never harboring a harsh word for anyone.

She found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. Cynthia was a talented quilter, stitching love into every piece she created. She loved playing cards around the table with her family, organizing memorable family trips, and taking her children camping when they were young. Her ability to bring people together created a lifetime of traditions that her family will carry forward forever.

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Caroline CurtisCaroline B. CurtisCaroline B. Curtis, age 81, peacefully passed away and returned to her heavenly home on...
07/01/2026

Caroline Curtis

Caroline B. Curtis

Caroline B. Curtis, age 81, peacefully passed away and returned to her heavenly home on June 22, 2026, due to complications from bile duct cancer (cholangiocarcinoma).

As the oldest of five girls, Caroline B. Porter was born October 16, 1944, in Preston, Idaho, to MarDean Bennett Porter and Wayne Spatig Porter. When she was six years old, her family moved to Willard, Utah, and later to Ogden, Utah, where she attended Wasatch Elementary, Mount Ogden Junior High, and Ogden High School, graduating in 1963. That same summer, she married Elbert Curtis in the Logan, Utah Temple for time and all eternity. Together they are the proud parents of six children. At the time of her passing, Caroline and Elbert were less than three months shy of celebrating their 63rd wedding anniversary.

Caroline enjoyed oil painting and sewing, and building those talents was a blessing to her family and many others. When her youngest child started school, she earned an associate degree in Fashion Merchandising from Weber State University. That same year, 1983, she founded Kids Can Sew, Inc. The business has its own line of patterns, has been in operation for more than 40 years, and has been successfully passed on to her daughters.

Caroline was a lifelong, active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, happily serving in callings at the ward and stake levels, with a particular focus on children and youth. She served in the Tucson Arizona Temple and, until her passing, was a service missionary, leading a group of fellow missionaries in preparing documents for family history extraction. Amid the

demands of running a business that required extensive travel, speaking engagements, and fashion shows, Caroline always prioritized her family — whether that meant preparing a delicious meal, lending a listening ear, doing hair (for four daughters), mending clothes, or keeping her children in line. She was a faithful presence at her six children's performances, sporting events, concerts, and dance and music recitals.

Caroline was a person of impeccable integrity, honesty, generosity, and love, as well as a remarkable listener. Once a friend, always a friend, and in her eyes, everyone was a friend or a potential friend.

Caroline is survived by her husband, Elbert Curtis; her children Leesa Bickmore, James Curtis, Teri Robertson (Eric), Tami Bright (Albert), Jason Curtis (Jodi), and Lyndee Lee (Ryan); three siblings, Janice Sheehan (Mike), Gwenev'er McCarthy (Doug), and Jeanene Porter; seventeen grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her father, Wayne Porter; her mother, MarDean Porter; her sister, Beverly Burkin; her niece, Raina Bybee; and her daughter-in-law, Jacqueline Curtis.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026, at 11:30 a.m., at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3500 W. Sumter Dr., Marana, AZ 85742, with a viewing from 10:00–11:00 a.m. Interment will be at the St. George City Cemetery in St. George, Utah.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your favorite church or charity.

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3081 W. Orange Grove Rd
Tucson, AZ
85741

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