Obituaries

Feb 24, 2025

Mark Travis Johns, “Nake” as he was known to many passed away peacefully with his family surrounded on February 24, 2025 at the age of 42. Mark was born on August 23, 1982, in Phoenix, Arizona to Patricia Kisto Newman and the late Brainard Johns.

In addition he leaves behind a stepfather, Ryan Newman Sr. , and a stepmother Michelle Johns. 

Mark...

Feb 24, 2025

Guadalupe M. Martinez-Lopez, 81, of Casa Grande, Az, died on February 24, 2025. She was born in San Antonio, Texas, on December 23, 1943, to Guadalupe and Ramona Martinez.

Guadalupe enjoyed spending time with her family and friends and her dog Chiquita. She always had a meal in her kitchen, she loved cooking and decorating for family parties. Guadalupe was hardworking,...

Feb 22, 2025

Bernadette Jean Reed, age 77, of Bapchule, passed away on February 22, 2025, at the Caring House in Sacaton. She was born on November 10, 1947, to Frank and Alice Reed in Sacaton.

Throughout her life, Bernadette demonstrated a profound commitment to her community. In 1968, she was honored to be named Miss Gila River. Additionally, she was a traditional dancer...

Feb 18, 2025

Dominic James White, age 19, of Sacaton, Arizona, passed away on February 18, 2025. He was born to Rochelle Smith and Jonathan White Jr. in Casa Grande, Arizona.

 

Dominic was known for his vibrant personality and outgoing nature. He had a remarkable ability to connect with others, bringing joy and laughter to his family and friends. Dominic had a playful spirit,...

Feb 18, 2025

Dr. Franklin “Frank” A. Shepel

 

Franklin “Frank” Alan Shepel died peacefully in Arizona surrounded by his family on February 18, 2025. Frank was born in Winton, MN on November 21, 1952 to Frank and Frances Shepel. He grew up in Ely, MN as the youngest son in their family of four children. Throughout his childhood Frank loved adventure, playing baseball, cowboy...

Feb 16, 2025

**In Loving Memory of Guadalupe Mendez Flores**

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Guadalupe Mendez Flores, who left us on February 16, 2025, just a day shy of her 79th birthday. Born on February 17, 1946, to Liborio and Rafaela Mendez, Guadalupe was a vibrant soul whose creativity and zest for life touched everyone she met.

Guadalupe...

Feb 15, 2025

Feb 14, 2025

Mary S. Lopez, passed away on February 14, 2025, at the age of 94. Born on April 15, 1930, to Sally Mae Pancho and Jose Phillip Lopez, Mary was a devoted mother and grandmother who always put her family first.

Known as the rock of her family, Mary's warmth and humor filled the lives of those around her. She had a...

Feb 13, 2025

Graciela Quezada Banda, a beloved matriarch, peacefully passed away on February 13, 2025, at the remarkable age of 92. Born on September 23, 1932, to her devoted parents, Jose and Aurelia Quezada, Graciela embodied a life rich with love and family.

Though Graciela has reunited with her loved ones who preceded her in death—including her cherished husband, Zenon Banda, her dear...

Feb 13, 2025

David Anthony Nez, age 27, of Santan, Arizona, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his beloved family on February 13, 2025. He was born on April 19, 1997, in Tempe, Arizona, to Michael Nez Sr. and Tanya Allison.

David was known for his selfless nature and his unwavering support of others. His strong sense of justice was evident in his...

Feb 12, 2025

Josephine (Josie Gamez) Quintana, 66, of Stanfield, AZ, passed peacefully on February 12, 2025, in Chandler, AZ. She was born on July 18, 1958, in Tahoka, Texas, to Clemente and Elena Gamez.

Josie affectionately known as “mama Jue Jue” will always be remembered as a vibrant soul that embodied a courageous spirit of strength. Her life was a vision of strength,...

Feb 12, 2025

Lawrence C. Lewis, age 75, of Florence, passed away peacefully on February 12, 2025. Born on March 28, 1949, in Sells, he was the son of Lupe Lopez and Jimmy Lewis. Lawrence was an active member of his community during his time at Florence High School, where he participated in sports, clubs, and student government.

Lawrence voluntarily enlisted in the Service...

Feb 11, 2025

Thomas "Tom" Delikat, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away February 11th, 2025, in Casa Grande, Arizona. He was born on January 5, 1951, in Somerville, New Jersey. Tom lived a life filled with service, devotion, and love, enriching the lives of all who knew him.

Tom Served four years in the Air Force at Minot, ND as a medic....

Feb 10, 2025

Mervyn D. Johns, "Moggie" 59, of Hashan Kehk, AZ passed away surrounded by his family on February 10, 2025. Born to Dale N. Johns and Permelia Manuel in Sacaton on June 4, 1965. 

Throughout his youth, Mervyn enjoyed horseback riding, playing baseball and co-ed softball. He also enjoyed breakdancing in his younger years. Mervyn was a Little League coach and very...

Feb 8, 2025

Sherwin Crook Whitman

June 14, 1953 – February 8, 2025

Sherwin Crook Whitman of Gila River Indian Community, 71 passed away on February 8, 2025. He was born on June 14, 1953, in Sacaton, Arizona to Lucinda Whitman. Crook was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother who will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Crook is survived by his loving...

Feb 7, 2025

Merry Kris Kyyitan, 55, of Bapchule, Arizona, passed away on February 7, 2025, in Chandler. She was born in Sacaton to Vernon and Imogene Kyyitan on December 16, 1969.

Merry will be remembered as a loving wife, aunt, and friend. Known for her outgoing personality, she dedicated her life to serving her community. Her passion for cooking was evident in the...

Feb 7, 2025

**In Loving Memory of Ana Maria Rosales Valadez**

Ana Maria Rosales Valadez, a vibrant soul and cherished matriarch, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2025, just days after celebrating her 70th birthday. Born on February 1, 1955, to Gilbert and Lupe Rosales, Ana Maria embodied the spirit of love and connection that she generously shared with all who knew her.

Her life...

Feb 6, 2025

Krystal A. Marquez, age 38, passed away on February 6, 2025. Born on March 13,1986, in Phoenix, she was the beloved daughter of Margarita A. Pablo and the late Anthony Marquez Sr.

Krystal was known for her vibrant spirit and love for life. A true morning person, she cherished the simple pleasures of cooking, enjoying a wide variety of music, and...

Feb 5, 2025

Ethelene Lewis, aged 90, of Sacaton, Arizona, passed away peacefully at the Caring House on February 5, 2025. She was born on June 1, 1934, in Sacaton to Alzelo Lopez and Eunice Howard.

Ethelene was known for her adventurous spirit and had a zest for life that was evident in all she did. She had a passion for baking and enjoyed...

Feb 5, 2025

JOHN WILLIAM WEEKS of Eloy, AZ, passed away Wednesday, February 5, 2025, with his daughter, Janice (Weeks) Kurtzman, by his side.

 John was born on July 16, 1940, in Flint, Michigan, to Harrison and Thelma Weeks. On November 16, 1958, he married Thelma Elaine Coats. John joined the Army in 1958 and spent eight years stationed in Georgia, Virginia, and Germany....