OBITUARIES

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Carol Sue Van Vessem March 30, 1958-Feb. 20, 2013

Carol Sue Van Vessem passed away on February 20, 2013 at the age of 54 in Las Cruces, New Mexico. 

She was born in Los Alamos, New Mexico on March 30, 1958. 

A service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 2 at the American Legion Post 90, located at 1325 Trinity in Los Alamos.

GORDON NEAL KEATING 1966Feb. 14, 2013

Gordon Neal Keating of Los Alamos, New Mexico died peacefully February 14, after a lengthy illness. He passed away at home surrounded by close family and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his mother, Jody Keating, and is survived by his father, Richard Keating (of Edwardsville, IL.), wife, Elizabeth, daughters, Flannery and Zoë, and brother Phillip (of Denver, Colo.)

He grew up in Edwardsville, IL., and attended Carleton College in Northfield, Minn. He was passionate about geology, especially volcanology. After college, Gordon worked for the U.S. Geological Survey at the Cascade Volcano Observatory where he met Elizabeth.   

They moved together to Houghton, Mich., where Gordon obtained a Masters Degree in Geology from Michigan Technological University in 1991. Later, they moved to New Mexico with two young daughters and he received his PhD in Geology from the University of New Mexico in 2000. 

Since 1995, Gordon has worked for Los Alamos National Laboratory. He published numerous papers in volcanology, helping to develop eruption and erosion histories for volcanic centers in Nevada. 

He also contributed to projects related to energy sustainability. Those around him not only appreciated his sharp scientific mind, but also his gift for communication. Gordon was an attentive listener, and his flare for humor and light-heartedness was a keystone of his contributions to the scientific community.

Gordon was always clear that family was his first priority. He was a loving husband and devoted father to his two daughters. He worked a part-time work schedule for many years, to make it possible to be home with ‘his girls’ and organized many family backpacking, camping, rafting, canoeing and cycling trips. 

Gordon’s gift for working with young people extended beyond the close family – he also felt a strong commitment to working with the youth groups at the Unitarian Church of Los Alamos. He was very generous in his time and energy with the UCLA.

Many people who know Gordon think of him first as a musician. He played string instruments since age 9, including violin, guitar and mandolin. Gordon loved traditional music, particularly Irish and Oldtime American, and played them with great skill and feeling.  

He played for many years in a local traditional music band and was generous in sharing his knowledge and talent with band members old and new. He was as generous with his time as he was with his talent, playing in many community and charity events over the years.

A Celebration of his Life will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb 20 at the Unitarian Church of Los Alamos with a reception to follow.

KATHERINE (PAT) PATTERSON KRIKORIAN Oct. 25, 1921Feb. 10, 2013

Katherine (Pat) Patterson Krikorian departed this earthly realm on Sunday Feb. 10, 2013 in Los Alamos, New Mexico.
Born in Oxford, Miss., Oct. 25, 1921, Pat came to “The Hill” at the tender age of 22 as one of the first 200 military personnel assigned to the Manhattan project.
She met her husband, Krik in 1946 and they were married in Los Alamos in March, 1948. Before and after the war she was a civil servant with the Federal Government working for the Departments of Agriculture and State.
Pat saw Los Alamos through the inception of the Atomic Energy Commission as it evolved into the Energy Research and Development Agency.
After 37 years of government service, she retired and traveled the world visiting six continents. Pat was a woman of strong faith and worked in many volunteer positions at the United Church of Los Alamos.
She believed that Los Alamos was a magical place where scientific mysteries were unraveled and international friendships made that went beyond governments.
Pat was preceded in death by her parents; Ike and Icy Patterson, brothers; Jack Patterson, Paul E. Patterson, James Patterson and sister; Virginia Sweeney. She is survived by her husband, Krik; daughter Debra and husband David Porter of Glenwood, New Mexico; sister Mary Childers of Ashland, MS; David’s two daughters; Robin and husband Carlos Porter-Alvarez of Miami, Fla; Christina and husband Michael Gibson and their son Michael Joseph Lee Gibson of Magnolia, Texas; and numerous beloved nieces and nephews.
Interment services will be at the Santa Fe National Cemetery at 12:45 p.m., Feb. 15 with a memorial service at the United Church of Los Alamos at 11 a.m, March 9.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her name to the J. Robert Oppenheimer Memorial Committee, PO Box 220, Los Alamos, NM 87544 or the United Church Memorial Fund C/O The United Church of Los Alamos, 2525 Canyon Road, Los Alamos, NM 87544

ROBERT H. SPRINGER Nov. 3, 1920–Jan. 21, 2013

Remembering the Life of Robert H. Springer: Robert was born in Chicago, Ill at the beginning of the roaring 20’s. His Dad was a pharmacist and owned a drug store. 

During the 20’s, they packed up and took a touring Ford and drove across country to California and settled in Covina. 

He grew up there and lived through the Great Depression. He had some interesting adventures such as finding and repairing a chain driven motorcycle, which he kept secret from his parents. 

During the 30’s, he bought a Model A Ford in peach baskets, and put it together and souped it up. He raced his Dad in a 1936 Ford and made the mistake of winning. Of course, he was forced to sell the car. In his late teens, be became a theater projectionist and began college. World War II broke out and in 1942, he enlisted. 

One of his commanding officers sent him off to Officers Candidate School. He was commissioned and assigned to the 5th Army signal corps under General Mark Clark. While overseas he met his wife to be, a nurse named Margaret. When they came back to the states, they were married in the Little Church Around the Corner in New York City, May 28, 1945. 

He was to be on the beaches of Japan during the invasion, filming the landing in color and sound for the Generals back home. Fortunately, the Bomb was finished and saved him and unknown numbers of casualties on both sides when Japan surrendered. He, like many GI’s, came back to no jobs. He found one with RCA and became a field service engineer installing and repairing real theater systems. 

He installed the sound system in William Randolph Hearst’s San Simeon castle in California. After finishing the system, he sat in Hearst’s special chair and watched a movie to make sure that everything was working properly. Shortly after this time he was let go from RCA. He found a job at American Broadcasting Company TV in Hollywood. He worked there in general field servicing until the advent of video tape. He quickly took to this new technology and eventually rose to the department head. During that time, he and his crew pioneered the cutting and splicing of the tape to produce a useable air time show. 

This was 2” mylar tape and computers with enough memory to provide storage and editing didn’t exist. Toward the end of his career he was given some plumb jobs such as designing the studio for the old Palladium Theater in Hollywood. This was for the show The Hollywood Palace, which is where Raquel Welch was first discovered as one of the sign girls to introduce the next act. He was also involved with the Lawrence Welk show and knew many of the band members from that time. 

After 28 years there, he retired. For a while, he had a small home business of rebuilding video tape capstan assemblies. This was critical to adjusting the speed of the tape to allow machines to interchangeably play tapes. He also did gun smithing, something he really enjoyed. 

In the mid 90’s he and Marge moved to Albuquerque and lived there. After Marge passed away in 2000, he lived in the general area until 2010 when he came to live in Los Alamos. For the first year here, he lived with his son and wife until they could no longer provide facilities for easy bathing, etc. He then moved to Aspen Ridge, which he really enjoyed. But after a few hospitalizations, his strength and general health required him to be in the Sombrillo Nursing Home. He was there for about seven months before he passed away.

He lived an interesting and full life until about the last year. He is now free of his worn body and in peaceful rest in God’s kingdom.

A memorial service for Robert H. Springer will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 15, 2013 at Trinity on the Hill Episcopal Church, 3900 Trinity Dr. in Los Alamos.

BENJAMIN WHITMORE July 18, 1980Jan. 18, 2013

Benjamin David (Ben) Whitmore, age 32, died unexpectedly at his home in Albuquerque Jan. 18, 2013.

Ben was born in Bozeman, Mont., July 18, 1980. He attended public school in Bozeman and Los Alamos, N.M. He graduated from Los Alamos High School in 1999 and attended UNM receiving bachelors degrees in Biology and Chemistry and an associate degree in Applied Science in Applied Technologies.

He had worked as a technician at Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute.

Ben was preceded in death by grandparents David E. Swanson (Butte), Gordon and Doris Whitmore (Butte) and June Ryti (Los Alamos) and aunt Dorothy Whitmore (Wyoming.)

He is survived by his daughter Mikayla Whitmore (Albuquerque), mother Wendy Swanson and husband Randall Ryti (Los Alamos), sister Lora Whitmore (Bozeman), grandmother Kay Swanson (Butte), father Don Whitmore and wife Cindy (Virginia) and step sisters Kerrie and Jessica, uncle David L. and Lourdes Swanson and cousins David, Stephen and John (Denver), uncle Mike and Kay Whitmore (Wyoming) and cousins Will and Tracy, uncle Glen and Jody Whitmore and cousins Chris, Shannon and Aimee (Nevada.)

As a boy in Montana, Ben loved to spend time with his grandparents in Butte. His grandfather (Papa) Dave Swanson taught him to play golf, tie flies and took him camping along the rivers to fly fish. He spent many happy times with family in Montana, New Mexico and Colorado.

Ben and Desiree (Gilpin) McBrayer had a daughter Mikayla in 2001, a primary focus of Ben’s life. He was a devoted father, reveling in Mikayla’s academic and athletic accomplishments.

They enjoyed time together playing board games, musical instruments, riding bikes, camping and just hanging out. Ben and Mikayla enjoyed watching the antics of his dog (Sasha) and cat (Darby) playing together.

Ben had recently begun taking Mikayla to some of the places that he had enjoyed growing up, including Chaco Canyon, Tsankawi and Bandelier.

They had many more trips in New Mexico and Montana on their wish list.

Ben was loving and kind. He could talk for hours with close friends and family. Some of his longest heart-to-hearts were with his sister Lora, with whom he shared a close bond that started in childhood.

He was a mix of philosopher and debater, engaging us all in discussions on many topics. He loved the out-of-doors, golf games, scuba diving, watching football, camping and fishing trips with family and friends.

Ben, we know you didn’t mean to leave so soon. We love you and will miss you. You will be remembered fondly.

A fund for Ben’s daughter, “Mikayla Whitmore College Fund” has been set up at Los Alamos National Bank. Supporting his daughter’s education was one of Ben’s highest priorities.

SELMA KRON Nov. 11 1931Jan. 13, 1931

Selma Kron, 81, passed away on Jan. 13, 2013 in the presence of her beloved family. Born Nov. 11, 1931 in Philadelphia to Rose and William Adelman, she graduated from the University of Pennsylvania and married the love of her life Norman Kron who preceded her in death in 1995.  

Together they raised five children and built a successful skilled nursing facility, Ambler Rest Center. She was very proud of her contributions to the Jewish Federation of Philadelphia and Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America where they established the Norman and Selma Kron Gene Therapy Center at Hadassah Hospital in Jerusalem.

She is survived by her children Andrea Kron (Charles Thorn) of Los Alamos, NM, Bonnie Martin of Largo, Fla., Debra Cramer (Mark) of Indian Rocks Beach, Fla., and Edward Kron (Garland) of North Wales, Pa.; her sisters Joyce Axelrod (Allen) and Marlyn Gerber; and grandchildren Erica, Tori, Renee, Carrie, Nikki, Ben and Izak. She was preceded in death by her daughter Caroline Kron.

A memorial service wias held at Temple B’nai Israel in Clearwater, Fla., Wednesday, Jan. 16  Grave side service will take place at Roosevelt Cemetery in Philadelphia Friday, Jan. 18.

EDWIN A. KELLEY Feb. 7, 1934–Jan. 15, 2013

Edwin A. Kelley, 78, a resident of White Rock passed away Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2013, which would have been his 25th anniversary to his beloved wife, Billie.

Ed was born in Washington, Pa., to John B. Kelley Sr. and Ruth A. Kelley on Feb. 7, 1934. He graduated from Trinity High School in Washington, Pa., in 1951.

He was a machinist all his life as many of the Kelley families were, and was known for being “one of the best.” He moved to Los Alamos, New Mexico in 1967 to work for Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory, in the main Shops.

In 1976 until 1981 he operated and owned Kelley’s Hilltop Gulf Station in Los Alamos. After that, he worked on various other projects within Los Alamos National Labratory and the community as a master machinist.

Ed loved going to Lake Erie with his family in the summers, playing pool with his buddies, camping, boating, hunting, fishing, almost anything outdoors, racing motorcycles, and going on hill climbs. He also liked working on and reselling cars, and oh how he loved to dance … and many times won those great dance contests, playing a very competitive game of horseshoes and always joked about having a prayer with the Lord (Calvert.)

Ed loved his animals and was especially fond of “his dog” Buttons who passed away several years ago and “Billie’s dog” Mitzi who is a very lonely little dog now.

He was a loving father, stepfather, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and son and loved all the children, especially all the babies. He was preceded in death by his father, John B. Kelley Sr.; mother, Ruth A. Kelley Toland; sister, Margaret E. Humphreys; first wife, Shirley A. Kelley; second wife, Billie F. Kelley. He is survived by his seven children: Richard E. Kelley (Shari) of Los Alamos, Cynthia (Cindy) J. Kelley of Los Alamos, Edwin A. Kelley Jr. (Brenda) of Los Alamos, Janet S. Caldwell (Jack) of Lamy, New Mexico, Mary Lou Holmes (David) of Los Alamos, Debbie L. Evans (Ed) of San Antonio, Texas, John P. Kelley of Los Alamos; seven stepchildren: Shirley A. Jarrell (Hal) of Houston, Texas, Debbie F. Wright of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Carolyn J. Blossom of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Billie R. Clark (Chris) of Tijeras, New Mexico, Barbara L. Sanchez (David) of Española, New Mexico, Orbry L. Wright (Kathleen) of Los Alamos, Katherine L. Brophy (Dan) of Española, New Mexico; brother, John B. Kelley (Sandra) of Beaver, Pa., sister, Joan R. Reese of Washington, Pa. Ed was also blessed with and is survived by 28 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren; numerous other loving relatives and friends.

Memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 20, 2013 in the Sangre de Cristo Chapel of DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory. A reception will follow at 2:30 p.m. in the meeting room at the VFW in Los Alamos. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to donate to your favorite Animal Shelter in Ed’s name.

The family of Edwin A. Kelley have entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley.

MARTHA VIRGINIA OSBORN Oct. 27, 1920–Jan. 13, 2013

Martha Virginia passed away gracefully on Sunday morning at home with family in Albuquerque. Her 92 years were full of adventures. She was born in Duenweg, Mo., one of four sisters.

She survived polio at a very early age with all but her left arm recovering. She could tie a shoe one handed tight enough to hold all day, something that continually amazed her daughter who could never figure it out.

She married Robert L. Osborn on Feb. 8, 1947 and was able to celebrate 66 years. They came to the Los Alamos area when Los Alamos was a closed secret city city. It was here in New Mexico where they would be blessed with their two children.

She lived in and loved the Los Alamos area for many years and could be found on Sunday afternoons picnicking and dipping her feet in the stream at Bandelier. Her love of visiting friends whether in person or on the phone continued until she could only listen when she had become very soft-spoken. She had a deep devout faith that led her beliefs. She had found her latest church home at the High Desert Methodist Church in Rio Rancho.

Although Martha never drove, she considered herself an excellent driver since she spent many years telling Bob how to do it. So, she was very excited when she got a scooter and could get around.

Martha and her best friend Frances Harper were able to attend their first Santa Fe Opera this last summer, something neither had done until well into their 90s. And the evening was made even more festive when Martha lost her wig in the wind and it had to be chased across the parking lot, remarking that she hoped no one saw it.

She also enjoyed an open-air ride in her daughter’s 1977 VW convertible to see the fireworks at the Balloon Fiesta.

Her greatest joy was her great-grandson Trenton. He visited her room regularly to tease and was known to take handfuls from her candy bowl. Carefully replacing the ones he did not like. She would say “That boy took all my candy!,” and when he received a digital camera for Christmas, he could be found sitting in her wheelchair at the foot of her bed taking pictures. Once she figured out what he was doing, she was only too happy to pose and smile.

Martha Virginia is survived by son Robert L. Osborn II of Rio Rancho, her daughter Jilli M. Oyenque with whom she has lived for the last two-and-a-half years, her grandchildren Brandon Todd Windes (Margaret), Keara, and Elizabeth, Ashley N. Schafstall (Keaton), Jordan L. Hanson & Patrick Murphy, Taryn M. Lopez (John) and 2-year-old son Trenton, her sister Doris Donnell of Washington, beloved nieces and nephews, her lifelong friend Norma Rock of Utah and her best friend Frances Harper of Rio Rancho.

Arrangements are through Daniels Funeral Home in Rio Rancho. She will be cremated and placed with her husband at the National Cemetery in Santa Fe.

PETER RUSSELL FORMAN Aug. 26, 1934Dec. 30, 2012

Peter Russell Forman, 78, died at home in Los Alamos, New Mexico Dec. 30, 2012 due to complications of cancer. Peter began his life Aug. 26, 1934 in Toronto, Ontario Canada, as the third child of James and Jane Forman.

For his Dad’s health, the family relocated to Glendora in Southern California in 1948. As a teenager he worked chilly winter nights for his father and others in lemon groves smudging to prevent frost damage, and summers he loaded crates of lemons at the packing house, thus learning that he never again wanted to be a farmer!
 
From Citrus Union High School, Pete went on to the University of California, Berkeley. After two years he interrupted his engineering studies to serve in the U.S. Army as a radio repair man stationed in Fulda, Germany, and developed an interest in physics and electronics.
 
As a side benefit, he became a naturalized American citizen and was eligible for the GI Bill. He went on to earn both an undergraduate degree and PhD in physics from the University of California at Berkeley, finishing his studies in 1967.
 
That year work opportunities took him from Lawrence Berkeley Lab to Los Alamos National Laboratory, where he spent the majority of his career in CTR and P divisions pursuing experimental research in fusion energy, plasma physics and optics.
 
He retired in 1993 but wasn’t ready to give up science yet, so continued as a Sumner Associates consultant at LANL until 2000.
 
In retirement, Peter was an avid wood worker, musician, and home remodeling carpenter/supervisor. He spent many happy hours in his woodshop building fine furnishings and cabinets for remodeling projects, building and repairing musical instruments, and designing and making as gifts custom inlayed music stands.
 
Each stand came with a “lifetime guarantee” – his lifetime that is, so any future repairs are up to the individual owners.
 
As an accomplished musician playing several different instruments, he was a regular participant in the Santa Fe Concert Band, Blue Heaven Dixieland Jazz Band, and La Strada Brass among others. He loved music, and even more so loved sharing the musical experience with friends and his extended family.
 
In family circles, he was known as a song leader, playing the guitar and passing on a history of family folk songs. Peter loved dogs and was frequently seen driving his pickup truck full of dogs off on hiking adventures.
 
He was an amazing, generous, talented, and intellectually curious man who will be missed by many. Those who knew him well are blessed by his life and memory.
 
He leaves behind his wife Jowilla of Los Alamos, New Mexico; son Bill of Juneau, Alaska; his daughter Katie of Trail, British Columbia; his son Bob, daughter-in-law Jeni, and grandchildren Rachael, Henry, and Helen of Colville, Wash., and a large extended family.
 
The family will host an open house in their home in Los Alamos from 1:30-5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 26.
 
If interested, in lieu of flowers, the family suggests a memorial donation be made to the Santa Fe Concert Band, 1000 Cordova Place #219, Santa Fe, NM 87505 or New Mexico Wildlife Foundation, 7 Shady Lane Espanola, NM 87532.

GORDON DON CROCKER MAY 11, 1939–Dec. 22, 2012

Don Crocker lived a remarkable life filled with travel, the arts, multiple activities and never-ending interests, a great continuing love of learning, and in his healthier days, the rewarding energy of sports. 

He loved the opportunity for discussion, never reticent in expressing his opinion of the idea at hand, and those around him often had to maintain a serious face when he was enjoying his craft at punning.

Don’s activities included Adult Choir member and Youth Choir bass at Evensong, Adult Sunday School teacher, and Vestry member at Trinity on the Hill Episcopal Church; downhill skier and student of karate techniques; automobile builder, repairer and racer; and a pistol target shooter and artist in the fine metal engraving and woodworking gun techniques. His mechanical interests come through his father Gordon, a longtime Master Ford automobile mechanic.

Don’s education included engineering degree programs starting at the just opening Lubbock Christian College in Texas and continuing at Ball State University in Indiana and individual courses in his areas of interest.  He read extensively.

Throughout 35 years of professional employment, Don practiced mechanical engineering and design. He worked at private firms in Alabama and Albuquerque and supported the activities of multiple groups within the Los Alamos National Laboratory. Formally, he was a part of the then Engineering Division.

Don is survived by his wife and son Judy Aplington Crocker and James Andrew Crocker, of Los Alamos and Denver. Married July 1, 1972, he and his wife recently celebrated their 40th Wedding Anniversary. 

His surviving family includes his mother Favette Crocker of Pampa, Texas; sister and brother-in-law Ginger and Don Stone of Clarendon, Texas, brother-in-law James Aplington of Gardners, Pa.; niece Laurie Lynn Holcomb and her husband Steve of Sweetwater, Texas, grand-nieces and -nephews Whitney and Andrew Lamming and Brady Holcomb of Lubbock and Sweetwater, Texas and Ashley and Justin Cardwell of Ft. Collins, Colo. 

Don’s father Gordon Crocker, lifetime mechanic and deaf evangelist in three states, died in 1997.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 2 at Trinity on the Hill Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his name may be sent to Friends of Los Alamos County Libraries, P.O. Box 402, Los Alamos, NM  87544.

RYAN STEWARD Dec. 11, 1987–Dec. 15, 2012

Ryan Steward, 25, passed away unexpectedly on Dec. 15, 2012. He was born in Bakersfield, California on Dec. 11, 1987. He is survived by his mother and father, Carole and Tom Steward, and his brothers Andrew and Daniel. He lived in California until 1996 when he moved to Los Alamos, New Mexico with his family.

Ryan graduated from Los Alamos High School in 2006. Ryan played many sports that satisfied his competitive spirit, including rugby, basketball, soccer, baseball, hockey, golf, snowboarding, and mud volleyball, where he was known as “pudgy digits.” His friends all knew him as “Stewy.” He started playing the guitar at age seven, and began playing in earnest in high school. He played bass guitar for several bands in high school and especially enjoyed playing acoustic guitar.

After high school Ryan attended Loyola University in New Orleans, and then transferred to the University of New Mexico. He was a few credits away from graduating from UNM with a double major of English and Philosophy. Ryan was a prolific writer, working as an editor and writer for several magazines and periodicals. He was recently encouraged by his professor to publish his works of poetry. One of his recent new joys was teaching a poetry writing class at the Albuquerque Rescue Mission.

Ryan was a deep well, with broad, deep gifts. He enjoyed reading the greatest classics of literature as well as thought provoking works of philosophy and spirituality. He was often moved to profound thought, writing down his reflections, which he often used in his writing. He was a great mind and had endless talents which held limitless potential.

Ryan cared deeply for his family and friends, and was greatly loved in return. He listened well, and saw others’ true selves. Those he loved were better persons for having been loved by him. He had a radiant and infectious smile. Ryan was ferociously meticulous about everything. He recognized quality and had great style. He had a playful, mischievous nature that made him so fun to be around.

In addition to his parents and brothers, Ryan is survived by his maternal grandfather, Walt Meyers, his paternal grandmother, Norma Steward, aunts and uncles, Jan and Richard Wolfe, Cindy and David Meek, Lynn and Jim Perkins, Jim Meyers, Bob and Carol Meyers, and Jan and Steve Proett, and cousins Jessica, Justann, and Samuel Meek, Billy and Tiffany Wolfe, Cathy and Bruce Morgan, Fred and Emily Hartman, J.T. and Lindsay Meyers, Scott and Kate Meyers, David and Nicole Meyers, Erin and Ryan Carmer, and Kristin and Chris Olson. Ryan was preceded to heaven by his grandmother Mary Louise Meyers, grandfather Harold Gene Steward, and his uncle Richard Mark Meyers. 

A memorial service will be held for Ryan at 1p.m. Saturday, Dec. 22, 2012 at Crossroads Bible Church at 97 East Road in Los Alamos, NM 87544. Reception will follow at the First Baptist Church of Los Alamos, 2200 Diamond Drive in Los Alamos. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Albuquerque Rescue Mission, 525 2nd St. SW, Albuquerque, NM, 87102.

The family of Ryan Steward has entrusted the care of their beloved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley.  505-747-7477, www.devargasfuneral.com

GORDON JOSEPH HOFFMAN June 6, 1930–Dec. 3, 2012

Gordon Joseph Hoffman, 82, died Monday, Dec. 3, in Albuquerque, NM. He was born, the second twin, June 6, 1930, to Bruno A. Hoffman and Anna Angeline (Karels) Hoffman.

Gordy spent his early life on the family farm in Rosen, MN. At age 13, as a freshman, he entered Nazareth Hall Minor Seminary in the Twin Cities, and following graduation from Naz Hall, attended the St. Paul Seminary. After completing eight years of college and post-graduate education, he was ordained to the Roman Catholic Priesthood in June 1956.

He served eight years at St. Francis de Sales German National parish in the West 7th Street neighborhood of St. Paul. In 1964, he was transferred to St. Joseph Church in Hopkins, MN, where he was assigned until 1968. “Crazy Gordy” leaves legions of friends in both parishes. He was known for initiating fun activities for seniors, youth, and other parish members, most famously hay rides, picnics, canoe and ski trips. His love of sports, athletic activities, and physical fitness was legendary, at every opportunity playing hockey on Twin Cities neighborhood rinks and handball with St. Paul police and firemen.

Gordy’s decision to leave the active ministry led him to study Spanish at the American University in Puerto Rico and to participate in the pastoral chaplaincy program at Ft. Logan in Denver, Colo. Acting on a suggestion from his colleague and good friend, Jack Dolan, he entered Adams State College in Alamosa, Colo, to pursue a master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling. It was there that he met his future wife, Wendy Rawson. After their 1971 graduation, they were married March 4, 1972, celebrating their 40th anniversary earlier this year.  Gordy and Wendy were blessed with not only their two children, Nicholas Joseph and Angela Eileen, but with their many friends who became a whole family of “extra kids” at Hoffman House.

He accepted a position as Guidance Counselor at Los Alamos High School in 1971 and retired in 1997 after 26 years of service. He then obtained his realtor’s license, with many of his sales being to former students, who continued to seek his assistance whatever profession he might be practicing. He cherished his association with Mary Deal Realty and the Deal family, whom he considered among his dearest friends.

Gordy leaves a legacy of love and inspiration far too extensive to detail, but he will always be known for his dedication to physical fitness, for his soccer & hockey coaching philosophy of making sure the kids had fun while developing skills, and for his own active lifestyle and love of the outdoors.

Throughout his life, he remained an active supporter of Laketrails canoe base camp on Lake of the Woods, having attended its 60th reunion in August. He played his last hockey game at 73 and never gave up his passion for the sport he loved most, to the extent of building – in his garage – a whole set of new boards for the Los Alamos Ice Rink, in the days when the rink was powered by volunteer labor. When Nick and Angela were playing varsity collegiate sports, he spent hours arranging flights or road trips to their games, and through these travels, he and Wendy gained yet another family of young teammates, many of whom have remained lifelong friends.

Most of all, Gordy will be remembered as someone who inspired instant affection from those with whom he interacted. He never met a stranger, forgave easily, loved deeply, and lived life to its absolute fullest. He was truly larger than life.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, and his children, Nick (Dr. Peggy C. MacLean Hoffman) and Angela (Dr. Marcos J. Gutierrez). Gordy considered his son- and daughter-in-law to be his own children, and he adored the three grandsons they gave him, James Gordon and Joseph Marcos Gutierrez, and Camden Joseph Hoffman. He is also survived by his twin brother, Maurice M. (Agnes) Hoffman, and his sister Kathleen (Gene) Wolfe, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was a member of a very large Minnesota extended family, so he also leaves countless cousins and their families who loved him dearly. Also left behind are his “co-padres,” George and Denise MacLean and Marcie and George McClaflin, his “extra” daughters-in-law, Nancy MacLean Davidson and Jenna Lapaglia, and his very special friend and helper, Joe Chavez.

Gordy was predeceased by his parents; his parents-in-law, H.T. and Mary Eileen Rawson; brothers, Roland and Richard Hoffman; sisters, Regina Hoffman Collins and Eveleth Hoffman Rowe, his brothers-in-law, Robert Collins and Dan Rowe; plus one feline and seven beloved canine best friends.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday, Dec. 10, at 11 a.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church. For those wishing to memorialize Gordy, the family suggests donations to Laketrails Base Camp, 17843 Riverwood Drive, Little Falls, MN, 56345, or online at www.laketrails.org; Espanola Animal Shelter, 108 Hamm Parkway, Espanola, NM, 87532, or online at www.evalleyshelter.org; or the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church Christian Concern Committee, 3700 Canyon Road, Los Alamos, NM, 87544. He is being cared for at French Mortuary in Albuquerque.

CLAUDIA ANN WEBER 1950–Dec. 2, 2012

Claudia Ann Weber, 62, passed away on Dec. 2, 2012 in Los Alamos, New Mexico after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

She is survived by her husband of 39 years, Ronald Paul Weber; her children Brian Michael Weber (Terri) of Las Cruces, NM, Gina Marie Fisk (Mike) of Los Alamos, NM, and Paul Matthew Weber of Santa Fe, NM; grandchildren Benjamin Joseph and Zachary Paul Weber of Las Cruces, NM and Emma Elizabeth, Ethan Michael, and Eila Kathleen Fisk of Los Alamos, NM; siblings Courtney Michael Harms (Stefanie) of Clayton, Calif., and Monte Ray Harms (Rose), Irwin Todd Harms (Debbie), Tammy Jean Garcia (George), and Rhonda Gayle Gonzales (Ronnie) of Albuquerque, NM; sisters-in-law Cecilia Ann Weber (Jan) of Portland, Ore., Sharon Rose Hall (Bill) of Socorro, NM, Linda Marie Reiter (Chris) of Albuquerque, NM and Carolyn Weber Chambers of Plano, Texas; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Claudia was preceded in death by her parents, Courtney Todd Harms and Aloma Esther Harms Lopez, and nephews John Harlan Sundt and Nicholas Adam Garcia.

Claudia was born in Albuquerque, NM and lived in the region her entire life. She graduated from Del Norte High School in 1968. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from the College of Santa Fe in 1997 and her Master’s of Business Administration in Finance from the College of Santa Fe in 2001.

She lived in Cedar Grove, NM for more than 30 years. During her children’s early years she was active in many of their activities including the 4-H, Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts of America, and Covenant Presbyterian Church. In addition to Claudia’s dedication to raising her family, she worked as a teacher, and owned and operated Jackson Hewitt Tax Service in Albuquerque, NM from 1996-2007.  

Claudia was an avid quilter and seamstress and will be remembered for all of the creative blankets, quilts, clothes, and gifts that she lovingly created for her friends and family. Claudia also loved to travel. During their retirement Ron and Claudia lived full-time in their RV for nine years and traveled all over the USA, enjoying extended periods of time in Aguanga, Calif., and Pendaries, NM.

During the last year of her life, Ron and Claudia purchased a home in Pahrump, Nev., where they planned to spend the winters away from the snow.

Visitation will be held at FRENCH – Lomas, 10500 Lomas Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2012. Services will be held at the FRENCH – Lomas Chapel at 1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 6, 2012 with interment immediately following at Sunset Memorial Park, 924 Menaul Blvd. NE.

The family would like to thank Dr. Amy Tarnower at the UNM Cancer Center for her dedication to fighting Claudia’s cancer over the last decade, and the Los Alamos Visiting Nurses for their loving care during the last days of Claudia’s life.

Visit Claudia’s online guestbook at FrenchFunerals.com

NIKOLAS VENTURA Dec. 28, 1997Nov. 21, 2012

Nikolas Rian Ventura-Arencon, 14, is survived by his parents; Jennifer Ventura-Trujillo and Diego Arencon. Step-parents; Vicente Trujillo and Lupe Arencon ; siblings: Adrianna Gatt , Michael Trujillo, Santino Arencon (13), Loliana Arencon, Diego Arencon Jr., Grandparents: Jeanne and David Buck, Ray and Sharon Ventura and Jose and Elizabeth Arencon: Great Grandparents: Jennie Carpenter, Jane Ventura and Phillip and Lucille Sterling; Aunts and Uncles: Rianne and Bernie Herrera, Monica Arencon-Smith and Terrance Smith, and Melanie and Niles Bartram. He was an incredibly loving uncle to: Charlotte Swanson (2). He also is leaving behind numerous cousins and friends.

Nikolas was the love of our lives, a bright-shinning soul. He taught us patience, love, kindness, and above all forgiveness. He had an infectious smile, compassion, and a huge heart for all people.

He was taken abruptly from our lives, as his time on Earth was short. Yet, he was a determined young man whom loved life. He loved his family. Nikolas had a wonderful sense of humor, was an avid Denver Broncos football fan and played all sports. He enjoyed skateboarding, wake-boarding, snowboarding, riding motorcycles, fishing, and camping.

Nikolas was a member of Los Alamos High School ROTC and especially loved shooting and drill competitions. He had dreams and ambitions, as he wanted to be in the marines and was applying to the New Mexico Military Institute.

Also, he aspired to be a firefighter like his father. He liked to spend time at his grandparents land and drive their tractor. He enjoyed working with wood, fixing things and liked cooking for his mother.

He was wonderful with kids. We all will miss him dearly. He will be forever in our hearts and will live on through us. We pray he is with the Lord now and will continue to spread his love onto others from Heaven.

And to Divine whom he tried to protect, Nikolas cared so much about you. We are grateful you were able to know our Nikolas and his love. Nikolas had the utmost respect for Brent Painter, his Gunny Sergeant for ROTC, and retired firefighter Robbie Stibbard. Thank you for making a large impact in his life.

Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Los Alamos.

Serving the family as pallbearers will be: Ray Ventura, David Buck, Lonnie Gallegos, Dominic Browning, Kenneth Goodyear, Gabe Blea, Robert Larranaga, and Bob Lujan.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Los Alamos National Bank to the Nikolas Ventura-Arencon Memorial Fund. We will be donating all monies to the Wounded Warrior Project on Nikolas’s behalf. The family of Nikolas Rian Ventura-Arencon have entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home and Crematory of the Espanola Valley. 505-747-7477

JUNE HENRY LOAR Oct. 2, 1926Nov. 20, 2012

June Henry Loar, 86, of Amarillo, died Tuesday, Nov. 20, 2012. Interment will be in Oklahoma at the family plot. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors, 2800 Paramount Blvd.

June was born Oct. 2, 1926, in Scotland, Arkansas to Philip and Molly Henry. She was a member of the Coulter Road Baptist Church and loved her Sunday school class.  

She taught Sunday school at Frink Baptist Church in McAlester, Oklahoma and at the United Methodist Church in Anthony, New Mexico. 

She volunteered for many activities. She taught in the school systems in Anthony, Tularosa and Los Alamos, New Mexico. 

June was a beloved mother and loved the Lord. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Lee Loar.

Survivors include a son, Mike Loar and wife Bernie of Laurelville, Ohio; a daughter, Robin Scoggins and husband Wayne of Los Alamos, New Mexico; a sister, Joy Fitzgerald and husband James of Amarillo; three grandsons, Tim, Bryan and Jamie; and several great-grandchildren.

The family suggests memorials to Olivia’s Angels, P.O. Box 950, Amarillo, Texas 79105.

Sign the online guestbook at www.boxwellbrothers.com.

KATHRYN EILEEN MATZKE Sept. 17, 1955Nov. 13, 2012

Kathryn “Kathy” Eileen Matzke, 57, of Los Alamos, New Mexico passed away peacefully Nov. 13, 2012 at Los Alamos Medical Center after a long battle with breast cancer.

She was born in South Charleston, W. Va, Sept. 17, 1955, the daughter of George and Donna Hill.
 
A talented equestrian rider, Kathy was active in local rodeos and horse shows as a teen.
 

Kathy graduated from Los Alamos High School in 1973 and married James Matzke Sept. 7, 1985.

She is survived by her husband James Matzke, her parents George and Donna Hill, her brother David Hill, her daughter, son-in-law, and grandson Shannon, Joe, and Jackson Blaylock, her son and daughter-in-law Kevin Matzke and Cristina Rubio, and her daughter Kelly Matzke.

Kathy’s life will be celebrated 11 a.m. to  5 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 17  at 90 Joya Loop in Los Alamos, New Mexico. All relatives and friends are welcome.

Kathy’s remains will be cremated and buried at the Santa Fe National Cemetery.

ROBERT E. SHAFER June 2, 1936Nov. 11, 2012

Robert E. Shafer died suddenly at his home Sunday, Nov. 11, 2012.  Born in Berkeley, Calif., June 2, 1936, he was 76 years old. 

He is survived by his wife Ann Shafer, his sister Gretchen Simpkins, and his beloved Scottish terrier Rosie. He was preceded in death by his brother Paul and by his parents Margaret Shafer and Eugene Shafer.

Robert Shafer was a recognized expert in beam instrumentation for charged-particle accelerators. He is best known for his world-class expertise on Beam Position Monitors.  

Following undergraduate study at Stanford (BS ’56), he earned his physics PhD in 1966 at the University of California, Berkeley. He spent two years at MIT and then joined the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory in Batavia, Illinois (1969-1986.)

Robert finished his career as a Scientific Staff Member in the Accelerator Technology Division at the Los Alamos National Laboratory. He contributed to the diagnostics of the Tevatron at Fermilab along with the other accelerators at that facility. 

His work at LANL included developing instrumentation for the proton storage ring at the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center (LANSCE.) He also served as a consultant at the CERN, Brookhaven and SLAC accelerator facilities. 

Robert had a large number of scientific publications in both physics and engineering journals.

He found great satisfaction in mentoring younger physicists. Several have gone on to hold important staff positions at various laboratories. Even in his retirement, he continued mentoring younger physicists and students on the online Physics Forum.

Prior to his development of Muscular Dystrophy, he enjoyed hiking, climbing mountains and exploring the southwest. He even played varsity soccer while at Stanford University. 

Robert and his wife Ann spent many weekends camping and hiking and exploring at the National Parks and Monuments throughout the southwest.

A memorial service honoring his life will be held at the Unitarian Church at 11 a.m. Nov. 30. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to the Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy Society (FSH Society), 64 Grove Street, Watertown, MA 02472

DAVID WILLIAM STURM July 22, 1957–Nov. 3, 2012

David “Dave” Sturm, 55, of Sierra Los Pinos, N.M., passed away unexpectedly Saturday, Nov. 3, 2012.

He passed felling burned trees on Cochiti Mesa from the 2011 Las Conchas Fire.

One of the massive trees came down hitting him and sending him over the cliff. He passed doing what he loved and was surrounded by dear friends.

He was born July 22, 1957 in New Brighton, PA., and attended schools in Pasadena, Texas.

He moved to New Mexico in 1994. He lived in Sierra Los Pinos near Jemez Springs with his dog, “Puppy” where his home overlooked the majestic Jemez Mountains.

Dave was employed with Los Alamos National Laboratory as a Construction Superintendent for nearly 19 years. He was well respected and appreciated by customers, management and peers.

Dave was an avid outdoorsman enjoying his four-wheeler, snowmobile, hiking in the mountains and nearby ruins, logging, and smoking brisket on the grill.

He loved life, laughing, being devilish, honesty and especially friendship.

He thrived on the historical and natural resources available to him as well as the culture of the Native Americans. He always shared his passions with family and friends.

Dave is predeceased by his mother, DeLores Sturm. He is survived by his father, William Sturm of Pasadena, Texas, his daughter Amanda Babb (Chris) of Pasadena, Texas, and son Mason Sturm (Crystal) of Deer Park, Texas, his brother, Leslie Sturm (Lyn) of Waller, Texas, his sister Cynthia Hunt-Whatley (Scott) of Sanford, ME, his seven grandchildren, C.J., Kaitlin, Joshua, Justin, Caylor, Alexander, and soon to arrive Kingston, his nieces, Tiffany (Jimme), Chelsea (Jason), and Lauren (Joseph), his nephew, Lloyd, his step children, Christopher Hernandez and Chelsey Hoffman, special cousin Terri Doucette, other cousins, and numerous loving special friends and family across the country.

David’s family will be forever grateful to his best friend and business partner, Jaret McDonald, who remained on scene during the Los Alamos Fire Department and New Mexico National Guard recovery efforts as well as a strong shoulder for Dave’s daughter, Amanda, as they arrived in New Mexico.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m. Nov. 28 at Trinity on the Hill Episcopal Church (3900
Trinity Dr., Los Alamos, NM 87544.)

All are welcome to attend and share food and company after the service in Kelly Hall.

In lieu of flowers, a donation in Dave’s name can be made to La Cueva Volunteer Fire Department either in person or Jemez Valley Credit Union.

Additional thanks to the men and women who serve under Chief Lee Taylor of La Cueva Volunteer Fire Department and Chief Justin Grider of Los Alamos Fire Department.

David will be remembered by his love for others, willingness to give and happiness for life.

CHARLES (DON) REESE Oct. 3, 1941Nov. 2, 2012

Charles (Don) Reese, 71, of Austin, TX, formerly of Los Alamos, N.M., passed away suddenly Nov. 2, 2012.

Don was born Oct. 3, 1941 in Camden, AR. His family moved to White Rock in 1957 and Don graduated from Los Alamos High School in 1958.

He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps prior to hiring on at Los Alamos National Laboratory. Don retired from LANL after 42 years as an engineering tech. 

Don was preceded in death by his father, William Reese and brother, Kenneth Reese. Don is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Eric and Stephanie Reese; his daughter and son-in-law, Melissa and Travis Ireland; his daughter, Tracey Salazar; and his grandchildren, Katy Reese, Jake Ireland and Brett Ireland.

He is also survived by his mother, Margaret Reese, and brothers and sisters-in-law, Larry and Lily Reese and Doug and Cheryl Reese.

Don will be remembered for his incredible generosity and infectious sense of humor. The last few years of his life, Don could be found in the Texas hill country photographing bald eagles and other wildlife.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Audubon Society.

THOMAS ILG Sept. 9, 1958Nov. 2, 2012

Thomas Ilg of Los Alamos, N.M., passed away unexpectedly Friday Nov. 2, 2012. He died while perusing his passion of photographing the ruins of the Jemez Mountains.

He was born Sept. 30, 1958 in Suffern, N.Y. He was graduated from Northeastern University in Boston, Mass. in 1980 with an engineering degree.

He lived in the town of White Rock, with his wife Wendy, the love of his life for 17 years.

Tom was employed at Los Alamos National Laboratory for more than 20 years where he worked as a mechanical engineer.

He was an avid and accomplished photographer; he loved hiking, hockey, target shooting, scuba diving, traveling and his five feline buddies.

Tom was in the Site Steward Interim Training program with Santa Fe National Forest.

He is survived by his mother Elizabeth Ilg of Owego, N.Y., his brother Robert Ilg (Loretta) also of Owego, N.Y. and his sister Ann Hill (Chip Hill) of Nichols, N.Y. His nieces: Virginia Fretto (Rob Fretto), Jacqueline Ilg (Brett), Jessica Ellenberger (Mike Ellenberger) and Heather Hill (Mark) and his nephew Kristopher (Topher) Hill. His mother and father in-law Charlie and Shirley DeBockler and Zach DeBockler of Tioga, Pa.; his sister-in-law, Robin (Gerald) Crocker; his brothers-in-law, Scot (Sandra) DeBockler, and Todd (Mary) DeBockler; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father Albert Ilg.

Tom is also survived by numerous outstanding and loving special friends. His exceptional best friend Bob Gentzlinger (brother) was the first to answer the call to search for his missing friend and one of the last to leave once Tom was found. His kindness and deep love for his good friend will be remembered always.

Memorial services will be held from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Thursday Nov. 8 at Fuller Lodge, 2132 Central Ave, Los Alamos, N.M.

In lieu of flowers, a donation in Tom’s name can be made to one of the following organizations: The Albuquerque Mountain Rescue (AMRC), Treasurer, PO Box 53396, Albuquerque, N.M. 87153; the La Cueva Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary Inc., 122 Twisted Juniper Road, Jemez Springs, N.M. 87025; or The Site Steward Foundation, Inc., PO Box 32224, Santa Fe, N.M. 87594.

Tom’s family will be eternally grateful for the dedication of the responders, and their valiant and skillful coordination of his rescue.

EDULIA ‘EDDIE’ BRIDGE Sept. 24, 1922Oct. 15, 2012

Maria Edulia (Bustos) Bridge died peacefully Monday, Oct. 15, 2012, at Sombrillo Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Los Alamos.

She was known to her family and friends as “Eddie” and to her grandchildren as “Honey.”

Eddie was born in Polvaderas, N.M. Sept. 24, 1922 to Pedro and Rufina (Lucero) Bustos.

She graduated from Santa Cruz High School in 1940. During the early war years she worked at the Boeing aircraft factory in Seattle, Wash.

She returned to New Mexico and worked at Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory for several years beginning in January 1944, first as a lab technician and then as a supervisor.

She met James Andrew Bridge in Los Alamos and they married Nov. 18, 1946. Except for a brief period when the family moved to Albuquerque while Jim finished his degree, Eddie made Los Alamos her home.

She and Jim raised five boys and built a house on Barranca Mesa with bricks from the original tech area near Ashley Pond.

She loved her family and her violets, and learned to “appreciate” Alfa Romeos. Honey’s grandchildren fondly remember making green Jell-O with her (any color Jell-O was green to them) and could always count on the cookie jar being full.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James Andrew, and sons James Edward and John William. She is survived by her son Arthur Louis (Meredith “Suki” Coonley) of Los Alamos, son Richard Allan (Sheridan Brown) of Los Alamos, son Jo David (Sarah Petersen) of Tijeras, and grandchildren Alexander and Anna Sofia Bridge of Centennial, Colo.

She is also survived by sisters Faye Martinez of Fairview, N.M.; Catherine Noble and Barbara Ortega, of Las Vegas, N.M.; and numerous nieces and nephews,

A rosary will be held Wednesday, Oct. 17, from 7-8 p.m. at the DeVargas Funeral Home in Espanola.

The rosary will be preceded by a private viewing from 5:30-6 p.m. and a public viewing from 6-7 p.m. Funeral mass will be held Thursday, Oct. 18, at 10 a.m. at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Los Alamos. Burial will be at Guaje Pines in Los Alamos.

The family would like to thank the staff of Sombrillo for their care of Eddie over the past few years. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests friends make a donation to Sombrillo Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

ROBERT NUNZ 1939Sept. 2, 2012

Robert A. Nunz, 73, of White Rock, N.M., passed away peacefully Sept. 2 after a courageous battle with acute myeloid leukemia.

Bob was born in New York City March 5, 1939 to Sylvester and Elizabeth Nunz. He is the younger brother of Gregory Nunz, formerly of White Rock, now of Las Vegas, Nev.
 
Bob was employed as a Probation Officer for the City of New York serving in both Family and Criminal Courts and was promoted to supervisor and then to branch chief for the Borough of the Bronx.
 
He married Mary Carpenter in 1972. Upon their retirement in 1995, they relocated to White Rock.
 
Bob was an avid bridge player and served on the Los Alamos Duplicate Bridge Board for several years. He also directed the Duplicate Bridge Game at the White Rock Senior Center on Monday afternoon for many years.
 
He had a passion for the game of tennis and was a regular at the Saturday Drop-in Doubles at Urban Park. Bob was an enthusiastic supporter of both Senior Centers and served as Chairman of the Advisory Council and as President of the local chapter of A.A.R.P. He also served on the Self-Help Board for a short time.
 
His is survived by his wife Mary, his brother Greg, nieces Marta Kutyreff and Deidre (Mrs.Charles) Bonner, nephew Jamie Nunz and wife Kate, grand nieces Elisa and Ashley Bonner, Cherisse Kutyreff, Jennifer Nunz and grand nephews Christopher Kutyreff and Justin and Jeremy Nunz.
 
Bob was a strong believer in community involvement in government as evidenced by his letters to the L.A. Monitor!
 
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday., Sept. 11 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to the Christian Concern Committee of I.H.M or to the Wildlife Center, P.O. Box 246, Espanola, N.M. 87532.

MAUREEN HUDSON 1928–Sept. 1, 2012

Maureen Hudson, 83, a resident of Los Alamos, passed away Saturday, Sept. 1, 2012. Maureen was unique; her love of life was ruled by an overwhelming enthusiastic desire to know as much as she could about a variety of subjects.

She not only had joy in her life, she gave joy to others. After a long debilitating illness, dementia took Maureen Hudson’s life.

Maureen was born in NYC in 1928. She enjoyed the streets and schools of the Big Apple for 18 years. She could get on the subway for a nickel to Times Square and for 35 cents to see a show, sing and dance and watch all the Big Bands perform.

In 1948, she tried out and earned a position as a professional ice skater with “Holiday On Ice.”

During Maureen’s skating career, she also skated for Ice Castles, Ice Follies and Ice Capades. During the last six years of her career, “Mo” (her nickname from show business) skated with a partner and performed in the major cities of Canada, the United States and Mexico.

The highlight of her act was to perform in the Hit Parade Christmas Show at Rockefeller Center. Maureen had the honor to be featured in one of the first shows to be televised on a national television network.

After 15 years in show business, Maureen hung up her skates and at the age of 35 enrolled at Central State University in Oklahoma. As a single mom with her son, Ty, she worked hard but graduated with a major in Health and Physical Education and a minor in Biology.

In addition to her academic work, Maureen lettered in swimming and gymnastics. After graduation, “Mo” accepted a teaching position at an elementary school in Carlsbad, N.M.

At a teacher’s convention in Albuquerque, she met Bill Hudson, a friend she had known in NYC before Bill joined the Marine Corps. Bill and Maureen were married in 1967.

Maureen got a job at Pojoaque High School as a Biology and Physical Education teacher. She started and coached hundreds of young students.

Maureen was a physical educator with Los Alamos Public Schools for 24 years. She retired in 1988, but soon after, she and Bill received an offer to teach in Puerto Rico.

While in the Caribbean, Mo and Bill island hopped from the Bahamas to Aruba. During this time, Maureen learned to speak Spanish.

During their 45 years of marriage, they enjoyed visiting Europe, Japan, China, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Mexico and also all 50 states.

Mo was a woman of many hobbies and interests. She thoroughly enjoyed and excelled at knitting, sewing, calligraphy and astronomy. This lady also enjoyed juggling, studying sharks, fossil collecting and becoming very competent on her computer. Mo was an avid reader and a lifelong learner.

Maureen’s physical and recreational activities included trampoline, mountain biking, swimming, hockey, inline skating, cross country skiing, triathlons, Senior Olympics and bench pressing.

She competed in most of these activities at the local, state and national level and earned countless ribbons, medals and trophies of which she and her family were very proud.

Maureen was honored by being recognized as the first person to be selected on the Wall of Family of the Los Alamos Skating Association.

Her collection of antique ice skates were donated to the Los Alamos Parks and Recreation Department and will be displayed at the ice rink when the rink opens this winter.

Maureen spent many hours at the ice rink organizing, coaching and teaching.

She started playing on and coached hockey teams of adult women called, “The Mother Puckers,” and the “Mountain Mommas.” She also initiated the race of the “Zambonies.”

Her students, from tots to seniors loved and admired her skills and ability.

Maureen and Bill were the first couple to be recognized by the Los Alamos Fitness Center for their outstanding personal fitness program.

In 2005, Maureen and Bill were named Los Alamos Living Treasures.

Maureen’s outgoing friendly positive personality of kindness and caring will be remembered by family, friends and former neighbors.

The family wishes to thank the staff of “A Nurse in the Family” and the “Hospice Program” of the Los Alamos Visiting Nurse Service, for the excellent care they gave Maureen.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Los Alamos Visiting Nurse Service “Hospice Program”.

The family of Maureen Hudson has entrusted their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley.

The community is invited to attend a “Celebration of Life” of Maureen Hudson at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 16 at Fuller Lodge.

STELLA ARROWSMITH April 24, 1923Aug. 31, 2012

Stella P. Arrowsmith, 89, passed away Friday, Aug. 31, 2012 at Aspen Ridge Lodge. She was born Stefania Polec on April 24, 1923 to immigrants Josephine (Markowicz) Polec and Michal Polec in Enfield, Conn.

Stella attended Enfield Public Schools and also attended technical school in Hartford, Conn. Early on, Stella worked as a pattern setter at the Bigelow Sanford Carpet Company where she met her future husband Edward J. Arrowsmith.

They were married June 6, 1953 and enjoyed 54 years of marriage before Edward’s death in February 2008. Stella held a variety of jobs and had multiple interests including being a master knitter, quilter and crafter.

She was a member of the Polish Women’s Alliance and was a member of St. Bernard Parish in Enfield. Stella moved to Los Alamos, N.M. September 2008 and was a resident at Aspen Ridge Lodge where she was known for her quick wit and ready smile.

Stella made many new friends there with whom she loved to share memories. 

She was preceded in death by her brother, John and sister, Matilda (Tillie) Razzo. Stella is survived by her three children: Joan of Farmington, N.M., John and wife Mary of Los Alamos, N.M. and Jim and wife Grace of Albuquerque, N.M.

Stella was Grandma Stella to Nathan and Samuel Arrowsmith of Tempe, Ariz. She also is survived by her sisters: Malvina Murawaski and Lydia Urbon, both of Enfield, Conn. Stella leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Betty Ehart Senior Center Day Out Program, the Los Alamos Visiting Nurse Service and especially the staff at Aspen Ridge Lodge for their loving care.

A memorial service will be held at a future date in Connecticut where she will be interred with her beloved husband Eddie.

EDNA LUDLAM April 13, 1926Aug. 22, 2012

Edna G. Ludlam, born April 13, 1926 in Taylor Wisconsin, died Aug. 22, 2012 at Los Alamos Medical Center of natural causes. 

Former wife of deceased Jose Renato Romero de Romero, she bore his children: Mark Romero, Michaeline Williams, Renato Romero; now deceased, and Vincent Romero. She is grandmother to Mark’s children: Ryan Romero and Rochelle Chandler. 

She is grandmother to Michaeline’s children: Lt. Commander Jeremy Miner and David Benjamin Miner. She is grandmother to Renato’s children: Jonathan Romero, Christopher Romero and Jacob Romero. She is also grandmother to Miles Romero, son of Vincent Romero. 

Widow of veteran Douglas Ludlam, Sr., she bore his children: Douglas Ludlam, Jr.; now deceased and Susan McBride. 

Cremation has taken place and no public services will be held. The family of Edna G. Ludlam has entrusted the care of their beloved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley.

NELLIE R. ELLIOTT April 13, 1926Aug. 18, 2012

NELLE R. ELLIOTT, 89, a resident of Los Alamos, passed away on Saturday, Aug. 18, 2012. She was preceded in death by her parents, Wilmer and Grace Brindley; brother, Garth Brindley and sister, Jean Cox. Nelle was born in Cullman, Alabama.

She was unique in that she graduated from Mt. Scholastica, a junior college. Nelle was employed through the Los Alamos National Laboratory as a secretary and traveled extensively. She was married to Bob Elliott for 62 years and lived in Los Alamos since 1951. She was an amazing gardener that produced many beautiful flowers. Her passion was her grandchildren. She will be dearly missed by those who knew and loved her.

Mrs. Elliott is survived by her husband, Robert “Bob” Elliott of Los Alamos; daughter, Nancy Elliott Vaughn and husband Randy; grandchildren, Morgan and Tanner Vaughn all of Santa Fe; brother, John L. Brindley and wife Jerry of Cullman, Alabama and numerous other relatives and friends.

Burial will take place on Wednesday, Aug. 22, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. at the Guaje Pines Cemetery in Los Alamos with the following serving as pallbearers, David Griego, Ross Lujan, Jose Carreno, Randy Vaughn, David Martinez and Tato Vaughn. The family of Nelle R. Elliott has entrusted their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley.

JOSEPHINE LOUISE HILL June 7, 1921Aug. 17, 2012

Josephine Willerton, 91, of Los Alamos, N.M. (long-time Borger, Texas resident), died Friday, Aug. 17, 2012. She was recently a resident at Aspen Ridge Lodge. Josephine Louise Hill was born June 7, 1921, in Cherryvale, KS, to Harold and Grace Hill. She met her future husband, W. R. “Mike” Willerton while attending Ponca City Junior College in Ponca City, Okla.

They married June 1, 1942, the day of her graduation from Oklahoma A&M College. While her husband served in the Army Air Corps during World War II, she worked in a lab for Continental Oil, developing airplane fuels. They moved to Borger, Texas, in 1946. Her husband worked in the Phillips refinery for 37 years. He died in 1986.

The Willertons were members of the First Presbyterian Church of Borger, then helped found the Faith Covenant Church. Jo Willerton was a gifted painter and teacher of painting, a longtime member of the Borger Creative Arts Club. She and her husband were square dancers for many years.

Survivors include three sons, Chris Willerton of Abilene, Texas, Keith Willerton of Borger, and Don Willerton of Los Alamos; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and two brothers.

CAROL ANN HANSON Jan. 4, 1943Aug. 7, 2012

Carol Ann Hanson passed away unexpectedly Aug. 7, 2012 in Houston, Texas, at the age of 69. She was born on Jan. 4, 1943 in Los Angeles, Calif., to Julia and John Koenig, the first of four children.

Carol attended California State College at Northridge and UCLA, where she graduated with a degree in teaching English as a second language. She was awarded a master’s degree in Latin American Studies from the University of Oregon in Eugene, where she met her husband David Hanson while working in the Physics Department.

They were married in Cove, Ore., in 1974 and moved to Richland, Wash. In 1981, they moved to Los Alamos, N.M., raising two children, Christina and Matt. Carol enjoyed the outdoors through gardening, walking, cross country skiing and hiking.

She loved the arts and excelled at weaving and painting. But above all, Carol loved cooking wonderful meals and desserts for her family and friends. Carol was a member of the Bethlehem Lutheran Church for 30 years and sang in the choir as well as volunteered in the office. She valued her family and friends above everything else, and her soft-spoken, thoughtful, and caring personality will be greatly missed by all.

Carol is survived by her husband David Hanson of Los Alamos, her daughter Christina Hanson, currently pursuing a PhD at Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, Mass., and her son Matt Hanson attending UNM in Albuquerque, N.M. She also is survived by her sisters Karen Rose of Cove, Ore., and Linda Koenig of Walla Walla, Wash., and a brother Charles Koenig of Cove, Ore.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Friday Aug. 24, 2012 at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church on North Road.

BOB GEOFFRION Feb. 24, 1925Aug. 1, 2012

Bob (Papa) Geoffrion went to be with his Blessed Virgin Mary on Wednesday night, August 1, 2012. He was 87 years old. He was a gentle spirit, beloved by all who met him. He was a kind, loving man whose wife and family were the most important things in his life. He also had a great sense of humor and he loved his jokes more than anyone.

Bob grew up with the love of his life, Carmen (Gallegos) and married her June 9, 1947 at the Lady of Sorrows Church in Las Vegas, New Mexico.  He served in the US Army in WWII in the 147th Infantry Division, fought in Okinawa, Tinian and Iwo Jima. He worked at Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory from 1947 to 1982 as a Health Physics Surveyor. He enjoyed spending winters in Tucson since his retirement.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Melecia and Alfredo Geoffrion; his brother Louis; sister Pita; brother-in-law, Henry Aranda and grandson, Shane Jackson. He is survived by his wife, Carmen and their 4 children Ronald (Sandy) Geoffrion, Roberta (Steve) Cocking, Kathi (John) Parker, and Ken (Cindy) Geoffrion; his sisters and brothers, Agnes (Victor) Vigil, Irene Aranda, Rosemary (Gerald) Duck, Arthur (Irene) Geoffrion, Juliet Ludi, Alfred (Gloria) Geoffrion, and Delores (Jimmy) Rael, (and many nieces and nephews.)

Bob also has seven grandchildren, Steven (Cindy) Cocking, Brian (Amanda) Cocking, Matt (Felicia) Cocking, Lindsay and Pete Parker, Nathan (Debbie) Geoffrion, and Zac Geoffrion. He had 10 great-grandchildren, Millie, Sophie, Halle, Karly, Benji, Eva, Rio, Laurel, Kevin and Jessica.  Mass of Christian burial was celebrated on Monday, Aug. 6, 2012 at 10 a.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Los Alamos with Father John Carney officiating with burial to follow at Guaje Pines Cemetery in Los Alamos.

The family of Bob (Papa) Geoffrion has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley

MARY B. STEVENSON 1921July 22, 2012

Mary B. Stevenson, 91, a resident of Los Alamos passed away at home surrounded by her family on Sunday, July 22, 2012. Mary loved to visit with her family and friends whenever she could. Once you met her you could never forget her. She will be missed by all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her husband, Victor L. Stevenson; plus many brothers and sisters.

Mary is survived by her 2 sons; a daughter; 8 grandchildren; and many great grandchildren and great great-grandchildren; numerous other loving relatives & friends. Services are pending at this time. The family of Mary B. Stevenson have entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley.

ELIZABETH ANNE THOMSON CAUGHRAN June 5, 1938July 18, 2012

Elizabeth Anne Thomson Caughran , an extraordinary woman, was born June 5, 1938, in Glasgow, Scotland; she died July 18, 2012, in Los Alamos, New Mexico. The daughter of Samuel and Alice Thomson, Anne had an adventurer’s spirit, leading her from the Honors Masters Program at the University of Glasgow to Kentucky in the 1960s for advanced studies; back to Scotland, where she met her husband Ken Caughran (a USAF pilot) at Prestwick; and to their deployment in Tripoli, Libya. They returned to the States in 1965 and settled in Texas for a different sort of adventure and on to Los Alamos in the 1980s.

After major life changes, she felt the call to new challenges and entered Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary at age 52 to obtain her second Masters degree. She won awards for her preaching and identified a need to serve small churches, moving to Wisconsin to lead three Presbyterian congregations over the next 15 years: Weyauwega, Wausaukee, and Athelstane. Her parishioners noted that her Scottish accent brought a certain authenticity to her powerful sermons and her sense of humor and life experiences brought God’s love to their hearts. One of her more memorable children’s sermons focused on the question: what is God’s favorite color? She suggested it was tartan—a fabric woven of many colors with special meaning for those who wear it. (She was of the Thomson clan and wore the Thomson dress blue tartan.)

 She served leadership roles in regional Presbytery committees and local community outreach, establishing monthly open-house dinner for anyone in town, a food pantry for those in need, mission programs, and serving as chaplain for local hospice and sheriffs’ departments.  Her work mentoring women in the church created a ripple effect, with more than eight women in different denominations entering ministry with her encouragement and guidance. For many years, she led small, personalized group tours from the States to Scotland, sharing her country, life-long friends, and favorite Celtic spiritual “thin places” with many from Los Alamos and Wisconsin. Upon retirement in 2006, she returned to Los Alamos, where she continued ministry with invited Sundays in Chimayo, Truchas, Peñasco, Magdelena, Jemez Springs, and Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Los Alamos.

Anne’s survivors include her daughter, Alison Grieggs; son-in-law, Tony Grieggs, and granddaughter, Roxanne of Los Alamos; her son, Bruce Caughran, daughter-in-law, Octavia Kincaid; granddaughter, Ailsa, and grandson, James of Oak Park, Illinois; dear friends and family in Scotland and the States; and three congregations.

Celebrations of Anne’s life and ministry are planned for August with memorial services in Los Alamos at United Church and Weyawega, Wisconsin at the First Presbyterian Church (dates to be announced.) If you wish, memorials may be made to Ambercare Hospice [410 South Paseo de Oñate, Española, New Mexico 87532], who provided exceptional comfort and care to Anne and her family. To leave condolences, please visit www.devargasfuneral.com. The family of Elizabeth Anne Thomson Caughran have entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley.

OLGA G. RODAKIEWICZ 1918July 18, 2012

Olga G. Rodakiewicz, 93, of Sombrillo Nursing Home passed away peacefully July 18, 2012. She was born to George Kotchoukoff and Olga Ostaschsky in 1918 in Russia and was an artist.

TAMELA SEAGRAVES 1964JULY 16, 2012

Tamela Seagraves, 48, a resident of Los Alamos passed away from an unexpected illness on Monday, July 16, 2012. She was born in Gallup, N.M. but spent her adult life in Los Alamos, N.M. A loving wife and mother, Tamela will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Her family always came first, but her second loves were her dogs and her gardens.

Tamela was preceded in death by her daughter, Samantha; father, Richard Carpenter Sr.; mother Elizabeth Everett. She is survived by her husband, David Seagraves; sons: Michael and David Seagraves; step-mother, Maryann Carpenter; step-father, Larman Everett; half-brothers: Richard Carpenter Jr., Christopher Carpenter, Ira and Scott Everett; step-sister, Athena Daniel.

Tamela’s extended family included many in –laws, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews & cousin. The family of Tamela Seagraves has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley.

WILLIE N. MONTOYA Aug. 6, 1924July 14, 2012

Willie N. Montoya, 87, of Los Alamos, New Mexico, died peacefully on Saturday, July 14, 2012, at Sombrillo Nursing Facility.  Willie was born on Aug. 6, 1924 in Cimarron, New Mexico; the son of Abel and Manuelita Montoya.   On June 20, 1959, he married Adonelia (Nellie) Rael, they celebrated almost 50 years together until Nellie passed away on January 28, 2009.  Willie absolutely adored his wife, Nellie; they took great pleasure in dancing at various functions and events all over New Mexico.  He was employed at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) from 1949 to 1987.

Willie was preceded in death by his wife Adonelia; his parents, Abel and Manuelita Montoya; in-laws, Nestor and Urgencia Rael; sisters, Olivia Bustos, Rufina and husband Aurelio Trujillo; brother, Thomas Montoya; brothers-in-law, Nestor Rael Jr., Lupe Rael, Jake Rael, and Charles Lehman. He is survived by his sisters, Petra Montoya and Mary Shiver; sisters and brothers-in-law, Ercilia and Luciano Montoya, Juan and Mary Jane Rael, Elizabeth Rael, Helen Lehman, Cecilia Rael, Joanne Rael, and Theresa Rael; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and close friends. 

Willie resided his last two years at Sombrillo Nursing Home. He was lovingly cared for by his sister-in-law whom he considered a daughter, Helen Lehman and her children; Charlotte Lehman and Charles Lehman III, grandniece, Maya Lehman and grandnephew, Gabe. 

The family of Willie N. Montoya has entrusted the care of their beloved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley.

JEAN BANTA BALESTRINI April 2, 1926–July 9, 2012

Jean Banta Balestrini, 86, longtime resident of Los Alamos died July 9, 2012, surrounded by family at Sombrillo Nursing home. She was born April 2, 1926 in Los Angeles California to Francis and Mary Banta. Jean Graduated from Fresno State College with a degree in education in 1948.

She married Silvio J Balestrini June 22, 1948, in Berkley, California. Jean worked as a teacher and librarian while Silvio completed his PhD in physics at UC Berkeley. Jean and Silvio, with their 3-year-old son, John, moved to Los Alamos in June of 1954. In Los Alamos they raised four children. Jean was active in the PTA at Pinion Elementary and worked as a substitute teacher in the Los Alamos schools for many years.

She especially enjoyed teaching math and science classes at Cumbres Junior High School. Jean was active in the Unitarian Church working as the Religious Education Director and later as a substitute secretary. She was also active in her sorority Beta Sigma Phi and was an avid bridge player. Jean was best known for her skills as a story teller. She would tell stories of life in California, Los Alamos, White Rock and Grenoble France, where she and Silvio enjoyed a year-long sabbatical. She would recount tales of riding burrows at her father’s gold mine, of how she met Silvio in college right after WWII, and of the drive from UC Berkeley to Los Alamos for the first time on Route 66. She told of the building of the White Rock community. She and Silvio were family number 32 and worked hard to create parks, schools, and neighborhoods.

Jean was preceded in death by the love of her life, Silvio J. Balestrini. She is survived by her brother Roger and sister-in-law Janice Banta, son John and daughter-in-law Nancy Balestrini, daughter Cathy Chapman, daughter and son-in-law Paula and Joe Altmaier, daughter and son-in-law Stella and Marc Shepard, grand children Jenna Balestrini, Jason Balestrini, Dante Chapman, Albert Altmaier, Joseph Altmaier, Andrew Altmaier, Sandra Shepard and Isaac Shepard. A memorial service will be held at noon Saturday Aug. 11, 2012 at the Unitarian Church, 1738 N Sage, Los Alamos, N.M.

BOB GENE COUSINS May 22, 1929–July 3, 2012 

Bob Gene Cousins, 83, was born May 22, 1929. Born in Tulsa, Okla. He was the third of three children born to George and Ruth Cousins. He spent his early childhood in Tulsa, where his father passed away when Bob was only 7 years old. He moved with his mother to Kentucky before settling in St. Louis, Mo. He attended school there eventually graduating from University City High School in 1948.

He served in the Army during the Korean War, based in Germany where he was part of a demolition team cleaning up after WWII. He returned to St. Louis where he met Mary Ellen Nordberg. The two married on Nov. 5, 1955 in Sparta, Ill. They settled in Chester, Ill., where he worked as a lab technician and had three children. In 1971, they moved to Escondido, Calif., in search of better weather and more opportunity. He held several jobs there before becoming a foreman at a production plant where he worked for many years.
 
In 1973 Bob led his family in converting to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was active in the church until his death participating in any way asked but his favorite assignment was as a home teacher. Dad was always happiest when he was doing something that benefited someone else. He volunteered for every move and every work project and when nothing formal was available he was finding ways to help on his own.
 
While living in Portland, Ore., Bob and Mary served two years as Missionaries directing a regional Genealogy Center. Dad loved to keep busy. He was an avid gardener and kept and had a special love for roses. Until arthritis made it impossible to work with his hands, he could be found out in the yard or in his garage, building, making, planning and improving. He made many pieces of furniture. He loved to make jewelry. He made many of his own signature bolo ties and belt buckles.
 
He painted with water colors and loved to sketch with pencil and charcoal. His most prolific hobby was intricate scroll saw pictures. He could fix anything and generally did. He was an amateur plumber, electrician, auto mechanic, framer, concrete finisher, cook and cabinet maker. Dad was the consummate family man. All of his vacation time was spent with his wife and kids when they were younger and at one or the other of their homes when they were married and moved away. And he always wanted to do projects when he came. 

He was completely devoted to his wife of almost 57 years. She came first and we knew it from a young age. He demanded that she was respected and he led by example. He served her, loved her and put her first, and took care of her until he died. 

 
Bob is survived by his wife Mary, children Kelly (Roger) Lyon, Randall (Ruthy) Cousins and Rebecca (Stephen) Betts, 20 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. He was our treasure and will continue to bless our lives as we look back at all of the great times we had together. The family of Bob Gene Cousins has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley.

DANIEL “DANNY” A. ARCHULETA July 11, 1942–June 30, 2012

Daniel “Danny” A. Archuleta, 69, a longtime resident of White Rock, N.M. and part time resident of La Sauces, Colo., passed away peacefully at his home Saturday June 30, 2012. He was born in Los Montoyas, N.M. July 11, 1942 to the late Teresita Montoya Archuleta and Antonio G. Archuleta.

He was a graduate of Pecos High School and went on to become a United States Marine and a Vietnam Veteran. He started his career in security as a corrections officer at the State Penitentiary of New Mexico, then accepted a security position in Los Alamos, working for different contractors during his career including DOE, Pro Force, Mason and Hanger & PTLA. 

Danny’s true passion was his family, his race horses and the ranching lifestyle; he learned to play guitar at a young age and entertained many with his music. One of his greatest joys was being “Pops” to all of his grandchildren, whom he loved very much. Danny was preceded in death by his parents, Teresita and Antonio Archuleta; his sister, Claudia Varela; niece, Sheryl Mae Gonzales; and nephew, Louie Lopez.

He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years Melva N. Archuleta and their children son Mike (Alejandra) Archuleta, grandchildren Daniel, Thomas, Anna and Mikey; son Joe Archuleta; daughter Felicia Archuleta Gibson (Lee) grandchildren John and Maria; son Daniel (Kirsty) Archuleta, grandchildren Shay Lee and Joseph.  

Danny is also survived by son Remijio Garcia and granddaughter Michelle Garcia; brother, Ramon Archuleta; sisters: Priscilla Saldana, Veronica B. Archuleta, Avelina (Vincent) Martinez, Christina (Dennis) Trujillo, Elizabeth (Danny) Rougemont, Carol (Magin) Valencia, Martha (Curtis) Stinett, Margaret (Ron) Griego, Rose (Larry) Petry;  In-laws: Gene (Elizabeth) Roybal, Belle Cody, Gil (Shari) Roybal, Vangie (Tom) Sloan, Ernie (Rosa) Roybal, Fred (Genne) Roybal, Kaylee (Chris) Wright, Charlene (Marcel) DeRochers; many nieces, nephews and two special godsons: Leroy Montoya and Jason Quintana;  special aunts: Annie Montoya and Grace Flores; many cousins including childhood best friend Tony Montoya, and many more relatives and countless friends.

Public visitation will be held on Saturday, July 7, 2012 at 6 p.m. in the Sangre de Cristo Chapel of DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory with a rosary to follow at 7 p.m. Funeral service will be held on Monday, July 9, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Los Alamos. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the San Antonio De Padua of Los Montoyas ~ c/o David Montoya 784 US HWY 84, Las Vegas, N.M. 87701, or to Los Alamos Visiting Nurse Service, 116 Central Park Square, Los Alamos, N.M. 87544.

The family of Daniel “Danny” A. Archuleta has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley. 505-747-7477

THOMAS KEANE 1956June 14, 2012

Thomas Keane, 55, passed away Thursday, June 14, 2012. Tom was born in Chicago, Ill and was a 1975 graduate of Los Alamos High School. Tom is preceded in death by his mother, Rosemary Keane, father, James R. Keane and step-daughter, Cynthia J. Archuleta.

He is survived by his wife, Judy Keane (Navarrette), daughter, Kristy Ortega (Chris), son, James Keane (Sarah), daughter, Dusty Rose Keane, son, TJ Keane, and two step-son Simon Montoya and Jerome Montoya, two brothers, Jim Keane (Nadine) and Terrance Keane (Dee) and three sisters, Sandi Hosack (Keith), Patty Remelius, and Jackie Kolakowski (Michael), five grandchildrem who he loved dearly, Raegan Keane, Olivia Ortega and Xavier, Angelina and Julis S. Archuleta.
 
A loving husband, father, and friend, Tom will be deeply missed by all that knew him. Tom was a self proclaimed sports buff and shared his love of sports with anyone who would listen … known by many as Coach Keane, he spent many years coaching football, baseball, track and golf. He played semi pro baseball in the Angels farm system. Later in life he played fast pitch softball with a group of great guys in Los Alamos. He considered the outdoors his second home. Tom had a sense of humor that could make you pee your pants and he loved the Chicago Bears, the White Sox and Bulls. Erin Go Bragh.
 
A Celebration of Life will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, June 23 at the Bomber Field at the North Mesa Ballpark in Los Alamos. In leau of flowers, an account has been set up in his name at Los Alamos National Bank.

HAROLD EUGENE RAYBURN April 1, 1916–June 8, 2012

Harold was born in Campbell, Mo., the son of Charles William Rayburn and Zola Elizabeth Waltrip. The eldest of five children, he was predeceased by sisters Virginia Paulfrey, Margaret Moates and Doris Aileen Boothby. He is survived by a brother, Finis Rayburn. Harold married Lois Lucille Love on Jan. 30, 1941. After celebrating 66 years of marriage in January 2007, Lois passed away a few months later.

Harold is survived by two children, a daughter and son-in-law, Gale and Dale Thomas, a son and daughter-in-law, Mark and Sandy Rayburn; grandchildren Kim (& Mike) Bissell, Jennifer Thomas, Joel (and Danielle) Thomas, Jamie Rayburn; great-grandchildren Kailey and Emma Bissell and Jillian and Mackenzie Thomas. Harold’s family was the joy of his life!

The profession of tool and die maker was the career that Harold pursued for 48 years, holding jobs at the Western Cartridge Company in Woodriver, Ill., a research plant in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., and Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico, from which he retired in 1975. But he also was an ordained lay minister, helping with many new church starts in south Florida and New Mexico.

Harold loved the outdoors, hiking, camping, skiing, photography, and traveling.  He also took great pleasure in gardening, as exhibited by his yard and many flower beds, as well as indoor plants. Lois and Harold had a love for people, sharing their home and meals with friends and guests. But their greatest gift was sharing the love of Christ with those who did not know the Lord.

On Saturday, June 23, there will be two separate services to honor Harold. The Graveside service will be 9 a.m. at Guaje Pines Cemetery where Harold will be laid to rest with his wife Lois. The memorial celebration will begin at 4 p.m. at the Christian Church of Los Alamos. Following that service, there will be a presentation of a plaque memorializing the dedication of Rayburn Hall and dinner will be served. All are welcome.

For those wishing to contribute memorial gifts, the family asks that monetary donations may be made to The Christian Church, 92 East Road, P.O. Box 1223, Los Alamos, N.M., 87544.

MAE T. CAGLIOSTRO June 14, 1943June 6, 2012

Mae T. Cagliostro, 68, a resident of Los Alamos passed away June 6, 2012 after bravely battling leukemia for six years. She passed away peacefully in her sleep surrounded by her loved ones. Mae’s husband, Dominic was always by her side, caring for her during her battle with leukemia.  Mae was a hero and inspiration to all who knew her. Mae was a wonderful, loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She was a kind, loving, compassionate and caring person who will be missed by all who knew her. Mae was close to all her children and grandchildren – one of her real passions was spending time with them.  She was an integral part of her children’s and grandchildren’s lives which brought her and them tremendous joy.

Mae was born June 14, 1943 in Brooklyn, NY to Nicholas and Catherine Cangeme. Mae grew up in Brooklyn where she met her husband, Dominic. Together they moved to Connecticut then California before settling in Los Alamos. Dominic and Mae shared a loving and happy life together for almost 50 years.  Their marriage and love for each other was admired by all who knew them. Mae provided daycare in her home for many years – she loved caring for children. Mae also loved traveling and spending time with her family and friends – she cherished many great memories of family trips. Mae always said she had a wonderful life with no regrets and felt she was lucky to have many wonderful family members and friends.

Mae was preceded in death by her parents, Nicholas Cangeme and Catherine O’Donnell-Cangeme; her brother, Robert Cangeme; and her sister, Catherine Swincicki. Mae is survived by her husband, Dominic Cagliostro; her daughter, Donna Rusch and husband Anthony and grandchildren Dominic, Anthony, Gianna, and Vincent of Chandler, AZ; son, Dominic, Jr of Albuquerque; and daughter, Gina Jorgenson and husband Justin and grandchildren Haiden and Ensley of Los Alamos; her brother, Billy Cangeme and wife Emilia; her sister, Patricia Fino and husband Tom; her sister-in-law, Karen Cangeme; her brother-in-law Felix Swincicki; her brother-in-law, Leo Cagliostro and wife Leslie; her brother-in-law, Larry Cagliostro and wife Rosemary; her cousins Tom Farrell and Robert Schueler; as well as many other  family members and friends.

A rosary service will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, June 11, 2012 at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Los Alamos, N.M. Funeral mass service will be held on Tuesday, June 12, 2012 at 10am at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Los Alamos. Lunch will be served at about 11:30 a.m. after mass at the church hall, followed by burial at about 2 p.m. at Guaje Pines Cemetery in Los Alamos. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, New Mexico chapter, 4600 A Montgomery Blvd NE Suite 201, Albuquerque, N.M. 87109, phone 505-872-0141. The family of Mae Cagliostro has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley. 505-747-7477

 

JAMES “DANNY” DOSS 1939May 17, 2012

James “Danny” Doss, 73, of Los Alamos passed away peacefully Thursday, May 17, 2012 with his family at his side, and is now in Paradise in the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Danny Doss was a long time resident of Los Alamos, retiring in 1999 from a career as an electrical engineer at Los Alamos National Laboratory where he worked on a variety of projects, including particle accelerators and biomedical technology used in cancer therapy.

Many others knew Danny Doss as the author of 17 “Charlie Moon Mysteries,” the first of which was published in 1994, and the last of which was completed shortly before his death.

Danny Doss, beloved husband, father, father-in-law and grandfather, is survived by his wife, Martha; son, Bret and his wife Taffy; son, Kirk and his wife Colette; and grandchildren: Summer, Bry, Moriah, Walker, Savannah and Nathan. Services will be held at Trinity on the Hill Episcopal Church in Los Alamos at 3:30 p.m., Thursday May 24, with a reception immediately following the service. The family of James “Danny” Doss has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Espanola Valley.

LESTER JESUS WAHNER DIED May 16, 2012

Lester Jesus Wahner passed away Wednesday, May 16, 2012, after a long illness. Lester was the son of Arthur and Esther Wahner, who preceded him in death. Lester’s brother Hermann also preceded him in death. Lester was born in Fort Campbell, Kentucky, the fifth of eight children. Lester is survived by his partner W. Scott Smith; his brothers: Xavier, Jorge, Wayne, Warren, and Ruppert, and his sister Alicia.

Lester graduated from the University of Kentucky with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1977. Afterward, he moved frequently from job-to-job until he finally settled in El Paso, Texas, where he worked as an engineer at Phelps Dodge Copper Products. Lester met his partner, Scott, in El Paso, and they eventually settled down in Los Alamos, New Mexico. Lester continued his education by earning an MBA in Business Administration from the College of Santa Fe in 1999, and a Masters Degree in Engineering from the University of New Mexico in 2003. Lester worked as a process engineer at Intel Corporation until he passed away.

Lester had a sharp, inquisitive, and witty mind. He loved reading about politics, religion, history, and philosophy. Lester had a good life despite his illness. He enjoyed playing games with family and friends. During his life, Lester was blessed with many friends and family.

Visitation to celebrate his life is set for 6-8 p.m. Friday, May 25, 2012, in the Sangre de Cristo Chapel at De Vargas Funeral Home & Crematory, 623 N. Railroad Drive, Espanola, N.M. Lester will be laid to rest at Guaje Cemetery in Los Alamos, N.M., Saturday, May 26, 2012. Serving as pallbearers will be: David and Ron Smith, Jimmy Baum, Colbert Smith, Mike Adams and Anthony Valdez; honorary pallbearer, Jim Portillo. The Family of Lester Jesus Wahner has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley.

EDNA E. MARX Aug. 9, 1920May 8, 2012

On May 8, 2012, Edna E. Marx passed away at the age of 91 at Los Alamos Medical Center. Edna was born Aug. 9, 1920 in Arena, Wis., as the only child of Oran McIntosh and Charlotte Porter. She attended East Side High School and at 16 she met her future husband Joseph E. Marx.

At 22, they married and that same year welcomed their first daughter, Charlotte Anne. Over the next four years they welcomed two more daughters, Mary Anne and Barbara Anne. In the fall of 1953, they moved the family from Madison, Wis. to Los Alamos, N.M. following Edna’s mother to work at the Lab. Between 1955 and 1956, Edna became employed at Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory.

In 1958, they welcomed their youngest daughter, Cheryl Anne. Edna continued to work at LANL until 1979 when she retired as a Health Physics Surveyor. She continued to live out her life in Los Alamos playing cards, gardening and grandmothering everyone she knew. She is preceded in death by her husband Joseph E. Marx and her parents Oran McIntosh and Charlotte L. Johnson.

She is survived by: daughters Charlotte Anne Hicks (Jon), Mary Anne Hargenrator (Tom), Barbara Anne Richie, and Cheryl Anne Bingham (Barry); grandchildren Sean Hicks (Barbara), Shannon Pratt (Pinky), Mona Hargenrator, Carol Pollat (Tim), Richard Hargenrator, Shelly Lewis (Wes) and Elizabeth Bingham; 10 Great Grandchildren, three Great-Great Grandchildren and numerous friends and family.

Viewing will be 6 p.m. Sunday May 13 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Los Alamos. The Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m., Monday May 14 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, followed by a reception at the McLaughlin Hall. Grave side services will be 2:30 p.m. at Guaje Pines Cemetery.

In Lieu of flowers the family requests donations to be made to the American Cancer Society. The family of Edna Marx has entrusted her care to Berardinelli Funeral Home.

JANET LUCILLE FOWLER June 3, 1919–April 26, 2012

Janet Lucille Brown Fowler was born June 3, 1919, in Bucyrus, Ohio, the daughter of Neva and Carl Brown. She graduated from Bucyrus High School in 1937 and moved to Cleveland, where she completed Nurse’s Training at St. Luke’s Hospital, received her RN degree, and then worked there as a nurse.

She met Max Fowler in Cleveland and they were married in 1942. Six months later, Max joined the U.S. Navy and the newlyweds moved to Annapolis, Md. They lived there throughout World War II, Max teaching at the Naval Academy and Janet working at Annapolis City Hospital. After Max was discharged, they moved to Ann Arbor, Michigan, where Max earned his Ph.D. in physics in 1949. They then moved to Manhattan, Kan., where Max taught in the physics department. Their daughter, Mary Janet, was born in Manhattan shortly after their arrival there.

Max began working as a consultant at Los Alamos in the summer of 1951, and the whole family spent wonderful summers there. In 1957, the Fowlers moved to Los Alamos for good and lived on Arizona Avenue at the edge of the forest for many years.

Janet, who had started taking piano lessons at age 7 and continued off and on through the years since then, became a piano teacher. She taught several generations of students in Los Alamos for more than 25 years. With her passion for music of all kinds, Janet also supported the Santa Fe Opera for many years. She ran the Los Alamos satellite box office in the 1960’s, and was a member of the Los Alamos Opera Guild. Later she became a member of Guilds, Inc. She also accompanied many Los Alamos school students in recitals and music competitions, and gave a number of acclaimed recitals herself.

The Fowler family spent the summer of 1962 in Italy, where Max did consulting work, and they also visited several other European countries. This inspired in Janet a lifelong interest in traveling and in languages. She and Max took many trips to places around the world, for both business and pleasure. They went to Russia 10 times over the years for Max’s work, and Janet became a good Russian speaker. She studied and used French, Italian and Spanish as well. She also enjoyed traveling with Mary, and in their three trips to the Mediterranean in the 1990’s she even picked up smatterings of Greek and Turkish.

At home in Los Alamos, Janet hosted countless parties and gatherings over the years for scientists from around the world. She was also a popular addition to the Megagauss Conferences, which Max initiated in Italy in 1965. Janet attended every one of the conferences, helping to plan and lead guest activities and offering support and friendship to many scientists and their families. An ardent skier well into her 80’s, Janet was on the Pajarito Mountain Ski Patrol for almost 25 years. She was also an accomplished runner, swimmer and tennis player. She took physical and outdoor challenges in her stride. She was quartermaster and cook for countless family camping and fishing trips in the early years, and she and Mary rafted through the Taos Box at high water when Janet was almost 70.

Janet and Max’s Arizona Avenue home of 43 years burned in the 2000 Cerro Grande Fire. They started over in a home on Camino Medio on North Mesa, where Janet enjoyed creating an extensive and beautiful flower garden. In 2006, Max died, and the next year Janet left Los Alamos to live at El Castillo, a retirement residence in Santa Fe. Still active, she had a deck built onto the back of her apartment and spearheaded the creation of beautiful gardens and walkways along the entire side of the building, which have been enjoyed by her and all her neighbors and admired by passers-by.

Janet loved everything about living in New Mexico. She enjoyed friends of all ages and all walks of life and was interested in everything around her. She is survived by her daughter, Mary Janet, of Charlottesville, Va.; by her brother- and sister-in-law Bert and Kay Fowler and her nieces Mary Leathem and Pat Paul, all of Massachusetts; by her special friend and assistant in recent years, Wendy Graf, of Santa Fe; and by many treasured friends in Los Alamos and Santa Fe and around the world.

To honor Janet’s memory, we suggest donating to any local charity or organization whose activities would please her. Janet’s life will be celebrated with a Memorial Service at 1 p.m. Thursday, May 3 at the United Church in Los Alamos, 2525 Canyon Road.

DR. GEORGE COWAN 1920April 20, 2012

A memorial celebration of Dr. George Cowan’s life and achievements will be held from 1-4 p.m. in the Lumpkins Ballroom of the La Fonda Hotel in Santa Fe, N.M. Sunday, May 20. 

Dr. Cowan, 92, renowned scientist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist passed away at his Los Alamos home April 20. Dr. Cowan, a Massachusetts native, participated in the Manhattan Project and had been a scientist and researcher at Los Alamos National Laboratory since 1949. He served on numerous boards in his lifetime and was appointed to the White House Science Council during the Reagan administration.

Former U.S. Sen. Pete V. Domenici said in a statement, “We can truly say that our country lost a true hero today. He cannot be replaced, but let’s hope he left footprints for us to follow.” 

In 1964, Dr. Cowan and his wife Helen “Satch” Cowan became founding investors in Los Alamos National Bank, and he served as its chairman for 30 years. Dr. Cowan helped established the Santa Fe Institute in 1984, and he and Satch created The Delle Foundation, a philanthropic organization, in 2004.  

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Delle Foundation.

EMMA ROSOCHA JAN. 9, 1954April 16, 2012

Emma Rosocha died April 16, 2012 after a long illness. She was born in Oakland, Calif., on Jan. 9, 1954. She was the daughter of William J. Riemer and Eunice K. Riemer. Her family moved to Gainesville, Fla., when Emma was a year old. In 1959, her father was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to the University of Tel Aviv, and Emma spent her kindergarten year in Israel.

Back in Florida, she went to the local elementary school until 1963 when the family moved to Maryland, in the Washington, D.C. suburbs. She attended Montgomery County, Maryland schools until high school. She joined the Unitarian Church in 1969 when she was 13.

Emma started high school in the Washington, D.C. public schools. She traveled to Yugoslavia during the summer after her sophomore year, and transferred to the private Hawthorne School in her junior year. After graduating from Hawthorne, she enrolled in the University of Wisconsin at Madison and graduated in 1976 with a degree in education.

While at university she met and married Louis Rosocha. They lived in Madison until Louis accepted a job at Los Alamos National Laboratory and they moved to Los Alamos in October 1981. Emma worked as a substitute teacher at Los Alamos Public Schools for several years. As soon as she came to this community Emma joined the Unitarian Church of Los Alamos. Emma is survived by her sons Jonathan and Nickolai, her mother, her sisters Elsa K. Riemer and Flora L. Riemer, and her former husband Louis Rosocha, all of Los Alamos.

A memorial was held for Emma at the Unitarian Church of Los Alamos Sunday May 6.

Dr. ANN WADSTROM 1932April 15, 2012

Longtime Los Alamos resident Dr. Ann Wadstrom has died. Wadstrom was 80 years old. She encountered complications from a recent surgery. Wadstrom was the president of the Los Alamos Federated Republican Women and region director of the New Mexico Federation of Republican Women.

She has been an active member of the United Church and participated on several civic and community committees over the years.

EDITOR’S NOTE: A Memorial

Service for Dr. Ann Wadstrom is set for 11 a.m. May 12 at United Church on Rose Street in Los Alamos.

NELLIE G. CHRISTENSON 1920–April 13, 2012

Mrs. Nellie G. Christenson, age 92 of Los Alamos, N.M., died peacefully Friday April 13, 2012. She was preceded in death by her parents Chester and Lillie Wright, and her husband Conrad Wesley Christenson.

She is survived by her son Carl Christenson of Washington, and other relatives and many friends. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, April 20 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Los Alamos. The committal service will take place at the Guaje Pines Cemetery in Los Alamos. Rivera Family Funeral Home of Espanola (505) 753-2288, toll free (800) 443-4854  http://www.riverafamilyfuneralhome.com

EDWARD LEE CLAY “PETE” 1932April 13, 2012

Edward Lee Clay, known to everyone as “Pete” went to be with Jesus April 13, 2012. He started Clay Builders more than 30 years ago in Los Alamos.

Pete, 80, was a remarkable man with a contagious smile, twinkling blue eyes and exceeding generosity. He was larger than life in his six-foot-two-inch frame, integrity was how he lived his life, but, his defining characteristic was his tremendous love for his family. Pete never met a stranger so, being a master carpenter by trade, he’ll no doubt, have much to talk over with Jesus.

Cheers Dad; to a life well lived! Pete is survived by his wife Barbara, and the following children and their spouses, grandchildren and their spouses, siblings, and their spouses, and great-grandchildren:

Calvin and Lori; Larry and Debbie; Peggy and Dee; Becky, Alison, Rebecca and Geoff; Kimberlee and Julian; Cheryl and Zac; Crystal and Bryan; Lisa and Brian; Ben and Missi; Ashley, Cory, Brandon, John, Gabe, BJ, Tom, Matthew, Tyler, Brandi, Elizabeth, Julian, Jorden, Bennie, Enrique, Olivia, Madison, David, Mason, Alexis, Isabelle, Chloe, Zeke, Asher, Thelma, Olin and Kathy; Sharon, Haskell, Cledith and Karen; Veleta and Tom; Jason and Jennifer, Bryan, Nathan, Renee; and cousins and many, many friends. Services were held in Albuquerque. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to your favorite charity in Pete’s name.

DONALD PETERSEN May 20, 1926–March 9, 2012

Donald Petersen (Pete) passed away peacefully at his daughter and son-in-law’s home in Tijeras, New Mexico, surrounded by his loving family and long-time friends. Lois, his beloved wife of 62 years, preceded him in death last summer. Don was born in Brookings, South Dakota to Valde and Sue Petersen. He served during WWII as a Navy ensign, and was scheduled to pilot an amphibious landing craft in the planned invasion of the Japanese mainland. He married Lois Ullman of Brookings in 1949. He received a B.S. in chemistry and zoology from DePauw University, an M.S. in biochemistry from South Dakota State University and a Ph.D. in pharmacology from the University of Chicago, where he then taught from 1954 to 1956.

He and Lois moved to Los Alamos in 1956 where they raised four children. He worked as a scientist in LASL’s Biological Research Group H-4, and during his long and varied career with LANL, served as Section and Group Leader for Cell Biology and as Division Leader for the Life Sciences Division. He also served as Program Manager for Department of Defense Health Effects Programs and as a member of the Advanced Concepts Group. In retirement, he continued to serve on editorial boards, committees and advisory panels on radiation effects, radiotherapy and other interests for the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command. He was a charter member of the Los Alamos Education Group and an insightful and widely published essayist, advocating for the expanded use of nuclear energy.

Don was a loving husband and father, a brilliant scientist, an enthusiastic gardener and avid outdoorsman. He was fond of horses, German shorthaired pointers, hunting and fishing. He was a tireless tinkerer- framing pictures, tying flies, reloading shotgun shells and myriad other projects in his basement workshop. He learned carpentry in his 40’s, hiring and working alongside a master carpenter to completely remodel his North Community group 12 home. He was generous with the community, offering his skills as both a pharmacologist  (performing emergency toxicology for drug overdose cases at the Medical Center), and marksman (tranquilizing and relocating bears that strayed into Los Alamos neighborhoods). His memory was astounding and his encyclopedic recall of off-color jokes and limericks was legendary. His life, though not without tragedy (the beautiful home he transformed and landscaped was destroyed in the Cerro Grande fire), was a textbook example of how one can work hard and have a lot of fun at the same time.

He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Hans Petersen and Tracee Hudson of Cedar Crest, daughter Christine and Lee Huffman of Santa Fe, grandson Troy Huffman of Las Vegas, daughter Sarah and Jo Bridge of Tijeras, son Carl and Susan Petersen and grandsons Oskar and Gunnar all of Albuquerque, brother Dick of Livingston, Montana and brother Daryl of Brookings, South Dakota. His parents, his wife Lois, and his grandson Nolan Huffman preceded him in death. Funeral arrangements are pending. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society.

A service for Donald Petersen is scheduled for 11 a.m., Friday June 1 at Trinity on the Hill Episcopal Church.

THERESA M. LONGMIRE Jan. 26, 1919–Feb. 17, 2012

Loving and beloved wife and mother of seven children, passed away peacefully at home in Santa Barbara on Feb. 16, 2012, surrounded by her children and caregivers.

Born in White River Junction, VT, on Jan. 26, 1919 to Dominick and Jennie Izzo, “Terry” graduated high school and while working at MIT’s Lincoln Laboratory met the love of her life, Conrad L. Longmire. Conrad and Terry were married in Hanover, Vt., Nov. 28, 1943, and remained in Boston and New York while Conrad finished graduate school.

They had two children, Judy and Henry, before moving to New Mexico in the summer of 1949, where Conrad accepted a position as a nuclear physicist at the Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory. While in Los Alamos, Terry and Conrad had five more children: Jonathan, Patrick, Jennifer, Maria and Matthew. Conrad passed away on March 22, 2010, leaving Terry heartbroken after 66 loving, wonderful years of marriage.

Terry is survived by her children [Judy March (John), Henry Longmire (Eva), Jonathan Longmire (Victoria), Patrick Longmire (Shelley), Jennifer Moss (David) and Matthew Longmire (Pamela); Maria Baker (Scott) having passed away in July, 1996), grandchildren Aimee, Holly, Jacob, Christopher and Maria, children of Judy; Matthias and Johannes, step-sons of Henry and sons of Eva; Michelle and Ben, daughter and son of Jonathan and Victoria; James, son of Patrick and Shelley; Nicholas and Jessica, son and daughter of Jennifer and David and great-grandchildren Eva and Isaiah, daughter and son of Jacob; Addison and Isabella, twin daughters of Jessica and Erin Hall.

Terry Longmire loved a bargain, and was well know to yard sale enthusiasts and collectors alike. She continued this avocation with passion until the very end, having clothed seven children, often her husband Conrad, many more grandchildren and converting many relatives and friends along the way. Everyone who met Terry was charmed by her unpretentiousness and spirit, her wit and grace, her laughter, and her love of life. She lives on in each of us, her children, grand- and great-grandchildren, and friends. She touched all of us, family and friends alike, with her love.

We would like to express heartfelt thanks to Doctors Mesipam, Gelberg and Wright and the loving caregivers, Mary Ann, Diana R, Maricel, and Diana A. We could not have gotten through all of this without their kind and loving care. We would also like to express our thanks to long-time workers Juana and Kevin, housekeeper and gardener, respectively. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care Foundation, 222 E. Canon Perdido St., Santa Barbara, Calif. 93101

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