Jim Kroll

August 23, 1933 - March 27, 2009


Jim Kroll, 75, passed away March 27, 2009 peacefully at home with his wife, Joann, by his side.

A Masonic memorial service will be held at Cole and Maud The Gardens Chapel April 4th at 11 a.m.

Jim was the man with a big smile. Born in Defiance, Ohio August 23, 1933 he was the son of Donald and Ruth Kroll. The family moved to Phoenix in 1945 and he attended Murphy grade school, and graduated from West High School. He attended Arizona State University before joining the Army in 1953. Stationed in

Ft. Lewis, Washington, he met and married Joann Suko in 1954 and finished up his tour of duty in Ft. Carson, Colorado. After his discharge they moved to Phoenix.

He was employed by Arizona Public Service for 33 years and retired in 1988. He later became their Southern Area Vice President of the retirees' organization. He and Joann bought Desert Travel after his retirement and he was very active in the travel industry holding state and national offices in American Society of Travel Agents. He and Joann were fortunate to travel to many countries together.

Jim was proud to be a Master Mason and Past Worshipful Master of Silver Trowel Lodge #29 in Phoenix and Pinal Lodge #30 in Casa Grande; a Worthy Patron for Eastern Star; El Zaribah Shrine's Ambassador; past president of El Pinal Shrine Club; a member of Scottish Rite and the Order of Quetzalcoatl. He was also an Elk.

O'Odham Tash held a special place for him, too. He was president in 1987 and announced the parade for many years. He also announced the Electric Light Parade. More recently he became involved with Citizens on Patrol. An avid NASCAR fan, he also enjoyed hunting, loved to fish and tell "fish" stories, and he listened with a passion to country and western. Family was his favorite word.

He is survived by his wife Joann, of 54 years, one daughter Debbie Gardner (Mike) of Gilbert, two sons, Brad of Las Vegas and Jim (Bridgette) of Litchfield Park. Eight grandchildren, one great-grandchild and a sister Vicky Lynn of Phoenix. He is preceded in death by his parents, his sister Brenda Diane Palmer and his brother Dr. Fredric "Dodd" Kroll.

Memorial contributions may be made to RTA Hospice or a Shrine Hospital of your choice in lieu of flowers.

J. Warren Funeral Services Cole & Maud The Gardens Chapel is in charge of arrangements.