In Passing

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Charles Edwin Astleford

Charles “Chuck” Edwin Astleford Jr., 79, passed away unexpectedly on Oct. 25, 2024. Born on April 17, 1945, in Detroit, Mich., to Charles and Bess Astleford (Middleditch), Chuck was their only child as his father passed away in Germany in service to our country during WWII. At an early age, Chuck discovered his lifelong love of being outdoors whether that meant spending summers at his grandparents’ lake house in Canada catching fish and water skiing or simply being a young athlete excelling at any sport he attempted. His love of the outdoors led to a passion for travel, photography, and landscaping that stayed with him until his final days.

In his early 20s, Chuck followed the Michigan State Trojans out to Southern California for the Rose Bowl and the January temperatures were too much to resist and he decided to give it a “go” on the west coast. There he met Pamela Nally. Shortly thereafter, they married, settled in Pasadena, Calif., and started a family; Mark and Erica all the while instilling in his children his love for adventure and the great outdoors. In the late ’80s, he would move up north to Monroe, Wash., working for the IRS as one of their top case managers.

Chuck traveled many places outside the United States, including Thailand. There he would remarry and welcome daughter, Thitiya “Tiya,” where he introduced his love for the arts including his love of music and collection of oil paintings in his home.

Upon retirement, Chuck opted for warmer weather and settled in Green Valley, Ariz. He continued to remain active heading up hikes and serving aces on pickleball court. He especially excelled in his skills playing billiards with friends.

Chuck is survived by his half-sister Floyann Anderson; children, Mark Astleford, Erica (Robert) Sechrist, and Thitiya Astleford; and grandchildren Michael, Peter, and Margaret Sechrist.

Jim Bottlinger

Jim Bottlinger passed away peacefully on July 7, 2024 at the age of 84. He is survived by his loving wife, Jane, and their blended family, which includes four children, two step-children, 12 grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two brothers. Originally from the Buffalo, N.Y., area, Jim dedicated 35 years to teaching elementary school. He golfed for a time with his neighborhood friends and the QC Duffers. He was known for his love of baseball and bowling. He was a member of the Casual Dance Club and the QC Trekkers for a number of years.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Parkinson’s Support Group of Green Valley, a cause close to Jane and Jim’s hearts at gvparkinsons.org/donate.

Pamela Butler

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Pamela Butler on July 6, 2024, at the age of 74 years.

Pam was born in Bakersfield, Calif., in 1949. She grew up in Bakersfield, Ventura, and Long Beach, Calif. In 1966, she married Fred Butler and moved to Seattle, Wash. In 2001, they moved to Quail Creek Country Club in Green Valley, Ariz.

Pam was a devoted wife and mom, who loved spending time with her family. She enjoyed arts and crafts and was talented in many mediums. She was the founding first president of Quail Creek’s Ceramics Club as well as the founding secretary/treasurer of the Scrapbooking Club. She continued as the treasurer when it became Paper Crafters. She was a welcome member of the Women’s Club and community book club.

She is survived by her loving husband Fred Butler, daughter Buffy Reed (Charles “Wes”), son Robert Butler, granddaughters Dakotah and Keara Reed, and grandsons Logan and Luke Butler-Grimm. She leaves behind her sister, Debbie Rhoades, and niece, Brigette (Paula) Rhoades-Fain.

Please join us for a Celebration of Life on Saturday, Oct. 20, from 12:30 to 4 p.m., at the Quail Creek Country Club Copper Room. Food and open bar.

Please no flowers. Memorial donations can be made in her name to Animal League of Green Valley or Green Valley Food Bank.

Jack Lee Davis

Jack Lee Davis had a heart for people, an infectious, dimpled smile and a generosity of spirit that all who met him could see. Even on his sickest, most difficult days, he focused on those around him—sharing a smile and asking about their day, their family, their activities.

Jack lived life large and wonderfully well. As a young man, he was a standout star in every sport he played, earning the Best All-Around Athlete distinction. He played baseball, basketball, and football; won awards at ping pong; and ranked nationally as a high school bowler.

Born on Nov. 24, 1946, he grew up in an era when kids had the opportunity to play any sport—and he wanted to play them all. He lettered in baseball, basketball, and football. Locals in his hometown of Kent, Wash., knew Jack as their Babe Ruth after he set batting records in Legion baseball that lasted years beyond his playing time. His parents, Milton and Rose Davis, and younger sister, Judy, proudly attended every game.

Jack continued to play baseball while attending college at Columbia Basin in Washington. During that time, he also got married and started a family—his daughter, Renee. He later transferred to the University of Washington, continuing to play ball and graduating in 1971 with a BBA in accounting. He was a proud, lifelong UW Husky. He kept on playing ball, too. Throughout his 40-year work-career, Jack played world-class competitive softball, knocking the heck out of a ball and making some of the best friends of his life along the way.

After college, Jack worked for St. Regis Corporation, Thyssen-Bornemisza Group, and eventually served as CFO at Ball Corporation. Over the course of 25 years working in senior finance, operations, and administrative management for international companies, Jack lived all over the country and traveled the globe, experiencing new people, cultures and exotic destinations.

After leaving Ball Corp., Jack and a group of partners launched Advanced Surface Technologies, a metal plating company in Arvada, Colo. He served as CEO until his retirement in 2013. He is remembered as a great boss and leader by loyal employees and customers.

Jack found the perfect place to retire in Green Valley, Ariz. He and Angie Werner (partner, later wife) moved to the Quail Creek community there, where Jack continued to build friendships, enjoy Jeep adventures in the mountains, volunteer for animals and people, play sports, and spend time with family and friends.

His love of animals was as important as his love for people. He walked dogs at The Animal League of Green Valley and cared for horses at Equine Voices. He joined numerous community committees and served on the Quail Creek POA board. He also organized car shows, combining his passion for gorgeous cars and raising money for a good cause. Additionally, Jack served on the board of Valley Assistance Services, which helps southern Arizona families and seniors live independently.

Jack loved to travel, and Mexico was a favorite destination. He treasured having daughter Renee Erickson, son-in-law Tom Erickson, and granddaughter Alexa Erickson join him as travel companions—making fantastic memories at exciting destinations.

Jack’s family was his pride and joy. Being a dad and a papa was his heart. His happy place was spending quiet time with Angie and their sweet Golden Retriever, Cruz.

His was truly a wonderful life. The last 19 months were tough, but so was Jack. He passed on May 12, 2024, surrounded by the love and light of his family, who all were humbled to honor this decent, kind, good man.

A celebration of Life will be held in Quail Creek on Sunday, July 14.

Donations suggested to:
Valley Assistance Services, 3950 S. Camino del Heroe, Green Valley, AZ 85614.
The Animal League of Green Valley, 1600 W. Duval Mine Road, Green Valley, AZ 85614.

Robert (Bob) George Sharp

Robert (Bob) George Sharp died Jan. 19, 2024, in Green Valley, Ariz.

Bob was born on Sept. 15, 1941, in Cheyenne, Wyo., graduating from Cheyenne High School in 1959. He was married to Carol Down Sharp, whom he married April 20, 1968.

Bob enlisted in the Wyoming Army National Guard Feb. 22, 1958, and became a full-time technician in 1961. He served nine years as an enlisted soldier before attending Officer Candidate School at Fort Benning, Ga., receiving his commission in June of 1967. He commanded Headquarters Battery, 115th Field Artillery Group, 3rd Battalion 49th Field Artillery, and the 115th Field Artillery Brigade, in addition to numerous staff positions. He retired in December 1994 from the Chief of Staff, Wyoming Army National Guard.

He is a member of the Infantry Hall of Fame, past president of the Wyoming National Guard Association, and served on the Cowboy Joe Club, University of Wyoming board of directors. For many years he was an aggressive volunteer fundraiser on behalf of the athletic department, University of Wyoming.

He is survived by his son Charles (Chuck) R. Sharp, daughter Shannon K. Sharp, and six grandchildren.

Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Carol Downs Sharp; his father, Charles R. Sharp Jr.; and his mother, Dorothy M. (Anderson) Sharp.

Bob passed just four days after his wife Carol of 55 years.

Cremation has taken place. No services will be held.

Memorials may be given to the Bob and Carol Downs Sharp Endowment, Hendrix College, Conway, Ark., or the Bob and Carol Sharp Scholarship Fund, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyo.

Carol J. Sharp

Carol J. Sharp, 80, of Green Valley, Ariz., died Monday, Jan. 15, 2024, in Green Valley at home.

She was born Aug. 22, 1943 in Little Rock, Ark., daughter of Paul and Rozelle Downs. Carol attended schools in Vilonia, Ark., and Conway, Ark., and graduated from Hendrix College in 1966. She married Robert (Bob) Sharp in 1968 in Cheyenne, Wyo.

Carol was employed as a teacher and social worker and retired from the State of Wyoming in 1990.

She is survived by her son, Charles (Chuck) Richard Sharp of Page, Ariz.; daughter, Shannon Abbott of Green Valley, Ariz., and six grandchildren.

Her husband, Bob, passed away just four days after her.

Carol was preceded in death by her father, Paul M. Downs, her mother, Rozelle Downs, and sister Elizabeth Jolly.
Cremation has taken place. No services will be held.

Memorials may be given to the Bob and Carol Downs Sharp Endowment, Hendrix College, Conway, Ark., or the Bob and Carol Sharp Scholarship Fund, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyo., or the charity of one’s choice.

George Edward Orford

George Edward Orford was born on Sept. 12, 1946, and passed on Dec. 22, 2023.

Ed was a beloved husband, brother, and stepfather. He leaves behind his wife, Victoria, stepson Erik and his wife Barbara, his sister Susie and brother Tony, and many nieces and nephews.

Ed loved sailing off of the coast of California and fishing. He really loved traveling around the world. He also liked going to local breweries and wineries with his wife. He adored Angel (deceased) and Lola, his fur babies.

Ed was a great, kind individual who adored life and will be missed.

 

 

Raynor Ernest Robinson

Raynor Ernest Robinson, 81, died Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, at TMC Hospice—Peppi’s House, Tucson, Ariz.

He is survived by his wife, Kay E. McHenry Robinson of 59 years, of Green Valley, Ariz.; his daughter, KariAnn (Mark) McDonald of Woodland Park, Colo.; son, Patrick (Tiffany) Robinson of Beaver Creek, Ore.; grandchildren, Samuel Bryce (Hanna) Robinson of Okinawa, Japan, Alexander Kenneth (Kaelin) McDonald of Ewa Beach, Hawaii, and San Antonio, Texas, Kerenza Marie Robinson of Portland, Ore., Maggie Win McDonald of Denver, Colo., and Alyssa Quinn Robinson of Beaver Creek, Ore.; brother, Robert Bruce (Patricia) Robinson of Orleans, Ind., and Florida; brother-in-law, Jim (Kathi) McHenry of Bloomington, Ill.; and well-loved nephews and cousins, plus a multitude of dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raynor and Carol Robinson.

He was a member of Central Presbyterian Church, Geneseo, N.Y., for 37 years and Desert Hills Lutheran Church upon death. Ray was active as a Son of God and servant of Jesus Christ.

He was born April 30, 1942, in Buffalo, N.Y. Ray graduated from Iroquois Central High School, worked parking cars, picking strawberries, and maintenance at Camp Aloha (a Camp Fire Girls camp) where he met Kay at age 17. A graduate of SUNY Brockport with a physical education and health major, and a masters degree from University of Arizona, Tucson, Ariz. Ray taught three years in Springville, N.Y. and coached swimming, and eight years at Geneseo, N.Y.

Ray joined the Navy aviation in 1977. He flew Grumman US-2C and Lockheed DP-2 multi engine aircraft in Barbers Point, Hawaii. He was deployed briefly in Okinawa, Japan. After eight years of active service, Ray flew UH Huey and AH-1 Cobra helicopters for the Army National Guard and retired after 28 years.

Ray flew for ERA helicopters over the Gulf of Mexico to deep water oil rigs in Louisiana and Texas borders, Alaska, and Rotterdam. He drove semi-trucks for JB Hunt, flew helicopter for Mercy Flight Med-evac in Olean, N.Y., and worked on a beet farm on days off. In Geneseo, Ray was a dispatcher for Red Cross Motor Corps, tour bus for Mountain View, Tucson, Ariz., patrol in Quail Creek, Green Valley, Ariz., G4S security supporting Border Patrol in Tucson, Ariz.. Ray organized 8 groups to put up 96 flags for eight holidays along La Canada. He was a member of Geneseo VFW and Masons (50+ member and lifetime member), FRA, American Legion Madera Post 131 Chaplin and volunteer, and motorcycle rider, Green Valley, Ariz. A member of Corvette Outlaws, Ray had 11 Corvettes since 1965 (one at a time).

A Celebration of Life will be Friday, Oct. 13, 2023, noon, with Rev. Mark Sagar officiating at Desert Hills Lutheran Church, 2150 S Camino del Sol, Green Valley, AZ 85622 followed by a light lunch. Interment to be announced in Central Presbyterian Church, 31 Center St., Geneseo, N.Y., Memorial Garden, with Rev. Nancy Lomaster officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Desert Hills Lutheran Church, 2150 Camino del Sol, Green Valley, AZ 85622 or American Legion Madera Post 131, 249 W Esperanza Blvd., Green Valley, AZ 85614.

In New York: memorials may be made to Central Presbyterian Church, 31 Center St., Geneseo, NY 14454.

Susan Warburton

Susan Warburton passed away on April 26, 2023, following a brief illness. She was mom to Jennifer (Doug) in England, sister of Phyllis in Maine, and friend to many. Whether you knew her for 50 years or 50 days, you had to love her.

Born in Greenfield, Mass., in 1944, Susan graduated from Greenfield High School and Framingham State College, where she earned her degree in education. She was a much-loved teacher in Greenfield and then Sacramento, Calif., where she moved with her husband, Warren, in 1990. They retired to Quail Creek in 2007. Warren, a World War II bomber pilot, died in 2011.

It is a testament to Susan’s capacity for love and friendship that she remained close to so many people from her past while gathering many more friends along the way.

Until health problems interfered, she could often be found on the golf course. She was Handicap Chairperson of the Quail Creek Ladies Golf Association (QCLGA) and member of the Greens and Golf Course committees. She claimed the club championship at least once. She was also co-chair of the QC Library Board and loved playing mah jongg.

Besides family and friends, the only things she loved more than golf were her dogs. She’d had several over the years, but her beloved shih tzus, Brandy and SuzyQ, were the last. She lost them both in 2022.

Susan leaves a big hole in the hearts of all her long-time friends from both coasts, along with those from golf, book clubs, the library, her neighbors, and countless others. She especially loved her neighbor and friend, Zillah Symonds.

Services are unplanned at this time, but please think of Susan when you drive past a school, hear the crack of a golf ball driven off the tee, or bend to pet a small dog.

Lorenz “Larry” Steer

With profound sadness for a life well lived, we announce the passing of Lorenz “Larry” Steer on Feb. 14, surrounded by his loved ones. Born Jan. 7, 1939, Larry was known for his quick wit, his larger than life laugh, and his strong presence, whether writing, directing, or acting in community theater or his passionate pursuit of any cause near and dear to his heart.

An entrepreneur from early on, he parlayed his skills into the plastics industry, where he pioneered a successful engineering company. Upon retirement, he continued in sales and ultimately became a “kind, kick butt” personal fitness trainer until the age of 80.

Larry took great pride in his children and grandchildren. Mentoring them in a style only “Papa” or “Pops” could pull off. He loved traveling, whether to Hawaii, Alaska, Europe, or most recently, to his bucket list, Panama Canal. Also on that love list were his many summers spent entertaining at the family’s cabin in Lake Arrowhead, Calif., as well as his dedication to his grandchildren’s baseball travels around the country.

Larry is survived by his wife, Sue; his children Robyn (Jeff) Hamilton of Newport Beach, Calif., Darla (Vince) Irizarry of Costa Mesa, Calif., and Chris (Dana) Steer of Long Beach, Calif.; and his grandchildren, Marlena, Jeffrey and Sara Hamilton and Connor (Cassie), Tyler (Shannon), Spencer, and Trevor Steer.

A private memorial service will be held in Buckeye, Ariz. Friends may sign the memorial guest book at thompsonfuneralchapel.com.

Celebrate Larry’s life by donating to The Animal League of Green Valley, The Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona: Green Valley, St. Mary’s Food Bank, or a charity of your choice.

Phyllis McShane

Phyllis McShane, a longtime Quail Creek resident, passed away recently after the death of her husband, Tom. Phyllis was born in South Dakota and lived in California and Washington state before retiring with Tom to Quail Creek. She volunteered for many years at the Tubac Arts Center. She is missed by her many friends here and leaves behind sons Thomas (Erika) and Christopher.

 

 

 

Thomas E. McShane

Thomas E. McShane, a resident of Quail Creek, recently passed away. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Calif., he lived in Edmonds, Wash.; Castro Valley, Calif.; Arcadia, Calif., and back to Edmonds, Wash., before retiring to Green Valley. A loving husband, father, and wonderful friend to many, he also was an avid golfer and supporter of the arts, including the Tubac Arts Center. His love of life, people, and his great sense of humor are missed. He leaves behind his wife, Phyllis, and sons Thomas (Erika) and Christopher.

 

 

 

 

Buzz and Joyce Walton

Joyce Walton passed away peacefully at home on Friday, Oct. 7, 2022. She had been under hospice care and 24 hours home care for 2 months. Her nephew and niece, Tom and Jean Schmied, were with her when she passed. She is survived by an older sister, Beth, nephew Tom and Jean, and niece Melissa. Memorial arrangements are being made for Wednesday, Nov. 9, at 11 a.m. at the Evangelical Free Church. Her husband Harold (Buzz) Walton passed at home, Jan. 31, 2022, following a bout with COVID. They were the last of the original 10 residents who first built in Quail Creek in 1990. Buzz retired from Canon and Joyce retired from Delta as an international flight attendant.

Joyce was a founding member of QC Lady Putters, Lady Niners golfers, The Women of Quail Creek, and QC Performing Arts Guild.

Buzz was an avid golfer and helped start the Tennis Club. He loved riding his bike through the neighborhoods socializing with all he met.

They will be greatly missed by all who knew them.

Dr. Anthony Edward Castro, Ph.D., DVM

Dr. Anthony (Tony) Edward Castro, of the Quail Creek community in Green Valley, passed peacefully on Tuesday, May 24, 2022, after a long battle with Parkinson’s. Tony’s wife of 55 years, Marlene, was by his side.

Born March 4, 1935, in New York City, Tony was one of four children. He grew up in the Bronx; a second-generation Puerto Rican, with a dedication to academics. He achieved his B.A. degree in 1955 and M.S. degree in 1962 from NYU. Tony served as Airman First Class in the U.S. Air Force from 1957-1961. His love of science advanced his interest in veterinary diagnostic virology. He met his wife Marlene in Indiana. They were married in 1967 and had two children.

Tony earned his Ph.D. in virology from Purdue University in 1971 and DVM from the University of Minnesota in 1978. His career included work at diagnostic laboratories at OSU-Stillwater, UC-Davis, and Penn State. Tony was an author/co-author of 85-plus publications, 10 book chapters, and co-author of a book on diagnostic veterinary virology. Tony assisted colleagues in related virology fields and with specific conditions in cattle and pheasants. He received $9 million plus in grants during his career.

Outside of work, Tony enjoyed family time, nature, and fostered a continual curiosity about the universe. He collected Native American art, embraced culture, was a fan of car racing and NASCAR, and will be remembered for his dance moves, ear for music, love of movies, dry and witty sense of humor, and for his chili and chicken curry.

Tony is survived by his wife Marlene, children Catherine (Jason) and Christopher (Kathryn), grandchildren, Izabella, Sofiah, Alexia, and Alicia, and brother Raymond (Marilee). A service is planned for Thursday, June 9, 2022, at 11 a.m. at Titzer Family Funeral Home—Simpson Chapel in Newburgh, Ind.