Arizona

Ana Maria Aragon, 65

sudo March 6, 2021

Died January 26, 2021.

Academia Del Pueblo, Phoenix, AZ

Paraprofessional

Local news:

Arizona has lost nearly 16,000 people to COVID-19. One of them was a Phoenix-area school administrator who was featured in a powerful documentary about the frontlines of the pandemic. The documentary is called “Death, Through a Nurse’s Eyes.”

Ana Maria Aragon got sick around mid-December and was later hospitalized, according to relatives. The 65-year-old worked for the Academia Del Pueblo in South Phoenix for more than 20 years. Colleagues there described her as a  “child advocate.”

“When grocery shopping, kids would come up to her and say “Miss Anita, Miss Anita!” her son-in-law Frank Munoz tells us.

Munoz spoke with Arizona’s Family alongside his wife, Ana Lilia, who is Aragon’s daughter.

The New York Times was at Valleywise Health in January documenting frontline workers when Aragon lost her battle with the virus. Aragon’s family gave the crew permission to use her identity. The footage captures Aragon’s final moments as family said goodbyes over video call and a nurse held her hand.

“It’s always an honor to be that conduit for the family,” says Sara Reynolds, one of several Valleywise nurses at Aragon’s bed side when she passed away January 26.

After the documentary was released, she got a chance to speak with Aragon’s family. “It’s not all about a thank you,” says Reynolds. “It’s just more, ‘How are you doing?’ and, I’m a real person, too. I did truly care.”

Aragon’s family says they feel grateful they were given the opportunity to be a part of the New York Times project.

“It’s something we never imagined but we wanted to also find out. Now it’s global,” says Munoz. “We wanted to leave a legacy so that our children will know how their grandmother fought until the last minute.”

The family hopes the intimate look at the pandemic’s emotional toll encourages others to “be careful.”

“It’s like she’s going to walk through the door and she’s still here,” says Munoz. “We miss her every day.”

Ruben Cajigas, 46

sudo February 15, 2021

Died January 26, 2021.

Catalina High School, Tucson, AZ

Dean of Students

Obituary:

Ruben D. Cajigas, 48, went Home with the Lord on January 26, 2021. He is survived by his loving wife of 20 years Teresa R. Cajigas, the pieces of his heart, his children, Son Ruben Cajigas lll, Daughters, Raquel Cajigas, Catarina Cajigas, Clarissa Cajigas and Talia Cajigas. His mother Gloria D. Cajigas, his sisters, Rosa Acuna (Jorge) Ruby Ann Shelby (Paul) and Rocio Cajigas  His brothers John Rivera (Rosalinda) Gabriel Rivera (Melissa) Rafael Rivera (Helen) his mother in law Rosary Rivera his nieces, Sophia, Paulina and Claire, his nephews, Rafael Jr., Christian, Gabriel Jr., Arron, Matthew, Paul Jr., Keoni, Benjamin, Jorge Jr., and Fabian and many loving family and friends. Ruben will be greatly missed by all who knew him. We give thanks to our Lord Jesus Christ for allowing him to be a part of our lives.

Jeannette Acuña, 60

sudo February 15, 2021

Died January 23, 2021.

Tucson Unified School District, Tucson, AZ

Language Acquisition

Obituary:

Jeannette “Jeannie” Acuña went to be with God on January 23,2021

Jeannie was born in Tucson, Az on March 05,1960. Jeannie was a craft lover and enjoyed the simple things in life as long as it involved family. She was a very devoted Nana and her Granddaughters were her world.

Jeannie worked for Tucson Unified School District for over 30 years and put her heart into the students of the district. Our family is forever grateful for the PRAYERS, love and support our family has been given.

She is preceded in death by her brother David Norzagaray. Jeannie is survived by her Mother Ofelia Hernandez, her loving husband Estevan Acuña; Children Ericka (Ralph) Christina (Gilbert) Steve (Courtney) and Michael. Grandchildren Brianna, Danissa and Demi. Jeannie is also survived by her 5 loving sisters and 1 loving brother.

Jeannie was a wonderful Daughter, Sister, Wife, Mother and Nana. We will forever miss her but we will always remember her beautiful smile.

Due to Covid restrictions immediate family has been notified for a private service.

Keith Purdy, 70

sudo February 13, 2021

Died February 2, 2021.

Gilbert Public Schools, Gilbert, AZ

Obituary:

Keith L. Purdy, 70 of Gilbert, AZ graduated from mortality on February 2, 2021. 

Keith is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Joan Marie (Six) Purdy, and their 7 children;  Rachelle (Brian) Shahan of Delaware, Nyline (Nathan) Barron of Washington, Marjorie (Gustavo) Lom of Arizona, Keith C. (Jessica) Purdy of Arizona, Rebekah (Joshua) Winter of Arizona, Cathryn (Keith) Figured of Arizona, Joan (Paul) Pipersburgh of Wisconsin, a surrogate daughter Leann Baumann of Delaware as well as 22 grandchildren. 

He is also survived by his siblings Elizabeth Hart, Cynthia Gardner, Alica Stott, Lynn Chatham, Michelle Chatham, and Richard Purdy. 

Keith was preceded in death by his mother Florence (Lucas) Burr, father John Burr, and biological father Richard Purdy, step-father Donald Chatham.

Keith L Purdy was born September 10, 1950, in Philadelphia PA. spending the first 5 years of his childhood with his grandfather in his bicycle shop.  He would later join his mother and step-father in Illinois and would later move with his mother and siblings to Arizona.  Keith is a class of 1969 graduate of Mesa Highschool. Keith served a full-time mission for the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints from 1970 to 1972 in the North-Western States Mission serving in Idaho, and Oregon.  Over the course of his life, Keith worked hard in numerous positions of employment. His employment included milk and bread delivery representative, Regional Sales Director with A.N.F Pet Foods, Banker with MBNA, and later Bank of America.  In retirement, he very much enjoyed his position as Bus Driver with Gilbert Public Schools driving bus #T261.  Keith enjoyed playing many sports over the course of his life. Some included softball, basketball, football, and racquetball.  Keith also came to enjoy cycling, often logging 20 miles a day along the streets of Gilbert and Mesa.  One of his greatest accomplishments came in 2005 when he hiked the Grand Canyon, solo, from rim to rim in just over 24 hours.  Keith was awarded recognition for being the greatest contributor in his Dale Carnegie Business and Communications course (1985) and has been recognized as a Competent Communicator in the Toastmasters International Communication Program (2017).   Keith would tell you his greatest accomplishment was winning the heart of Joan M. Six in 1975.  They were married on September 12, 1975, for Time and all Eternity in the Mesa AZ Temple.  Keith always had a mind for service.  He served countless callings with his church, including Branch President of the Durant Oklahoma Branch, Sunday School Teacher, High Priest Group Leader, Stake High Council, Councilor in the Smyrna Delaware Ward Bishopric, Young Men’s President, Stake Young Men’s President, Ward Mission Leader, Primary Activity Day Leader, and was a Temple Worker for many years for both the Mesa and Gilbert AZ Temples. He would say that his most important callings were that of Husband, Father, and Grandpa.  Every responsibility placed on his shoulders was given his greatest effort, so it’s no wonder his Heavenly Father would call him to a higher calling. Keith’s faith was unwavering and his love of his Savior and the Atonement evident in the way he lived his life.  To know Keith was to love him.  

Bruce Ferko, 64

sudo February 7, 2021

Died January 28, 2021.

Dunham Elementary School, Tucson, AZ

Third Grade

Obituary:

On January 28, 2021, Bruce Robert Ferko passed away at Tucson Medical Center in Tucson, Arizona of complications from COVID-19; he was 64 years old. He was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara Robertson Ferko and his father, George Clarence Ferko, both of Titusville, PA. He is survived by his adorable Scottish Terriers, Holly and Tartan, who are missing him dearly but adjusting to their new home with Bruce’s best friend.

Bruce was born on September 21, 1956 in Kenmore, New York. He attended North Tonawanda High School, where he loved and actively participated in the school’s drama program and varsity swim team. He was a top-ranked swimmer in The Buffalo, NY area and was always a great asset to his team. Following in his Mother’s footsteps, Bruce pursued a career as an Educator, touching the lives of hundreds of elementary school students in Pinellas County, Florida, in the Dallas area and finally in Tucson. After being nominated seven times for Teacher of the Year in Dallas, Bruce received this distinction at the San Jacinto Elementary School in 2011. Many of his classes received the “Star of Distinction” designation for their high performances in standardized testing. In December 2019, Bruce moved to Tucson and was teaching third grade at Dunham Elementary School.

Bruce attended Thiel College and graduated in 1978 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Elementary Education and was a distinguished member of the Phi Delta Kappa Educational Honor Society. He then received his Master’s Degree as a Reading Specialist from the University of New York at Buffalo. In 2003, he earned a second Master’s Degree in Elementary Education with emphasis in ESL Education from Texas A&M Commerce. At the time of his passing, Bruce was enrolled at A&M taking courses toward the completion of his Doctorate Degree Bruce had a very strong faith and was an active member at Central Lutheran Church in Dallas. During his time there, he assisted with creating the curriculum and teaching at the Vacation Bible School each summer. He also instituted and oversaw the annual “Back to School Bash” which provided backpacks and school supplies to more than 250 needy children in the community. Additionally, Bruce created and supervised the “Kids Club” which provided after school tutoring to students in the local community. After his move to Tucson, he became a member of Tanque Verde Lutheran Church. In addition to his lifelong love of learning and educating others, Bruce was a dog lover and he co-founded Scottie Kingdom Rescue, a non-profit animal rescue organization dedicated to caring for and finding forever homes for Scottish Terriers throughout Northern Texas and Oklahoma. He was a passionate performer in theater and chorale groups, performing with the Turtle Creek Chorale in Dallas for over 20 years and most recently as a member of the Reveille Men’s Chorus in Tucson. Bruce was also an avid bowler and participated in numerous bowling leagues in Dallas. He was easily identified by his Green Bay Packers bowling ball and bag, which was just one outward indicator of his fanatical love of the Packers. An online Celebration of Life for Bruce is being planned and details will be posted on this site as they evolve. During this celebration, it is hoped that attendees will share their memories and funny stories of Bruce. His wishes are to have his ashes scattered, half at his parent’s gravesites in Canada and the other half in Scotland. In lieu of flowers, tax deductible donations can be made to Turtle Creek Chorale in Dallas: https://turtlecreekchorale.secure.force.com/donate.

Raul Alvarado, 53

sudo December 21, 2020

Died December 10, 2020.

Walden Grove High School, Sahuarita, AZ

Campus Monitor

Obituary:

Raul “Ralph” Alvarado, 53 passed away on Thursday, December 10, 2020.  He was born February 3, 1967 in Kingman, AZ & grew up in Seligman, AZ.  He was a very loving son, brother, husband, father & grandfather.  He is survived  by:  wife Rosie Alvarado, daughters Danielle & Alecia of Winslow, AZ, son Adrian of Sahuarita, AZ, grandchildren Layla, Roy, Madianna, Preston & Mia who he loved dearly; brothers Arthur (Margaret), Daniel (Joy), Paul (Cecilia), John; sisters Irma (Henry), Mercy, Irene, sister-in-law Erlinda, and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  He is preceded in death by his mother & father, Manuel & Maria Alvarado and his brother, Manuel de Jesus Alvarado.

Raul retired from the Arizona Department of Corrections, where he worked in Winslow and Tucson. Arizona.  He was currently employed as Campus Monitor for Walden Grove High School in Sahuarita, AZ where he touched the lives of so many students, staff, friends and the Sahuarita Community. 

He loved running, hunting with his brothers & nephews, and spending time with family and friends and watching his son play football.  Raul was a great man who touched the lives of everyone he encountered.  He will always be remembered for his big smile, vibrant laughter and great stories.  He was a very loving person and will be greatly missed by all.

On behalf of the family, we would like to thank everyone for the love and support they have shown during this very difficult time.  We ask you to pray for his family now as they cope with this immense loss.

Jane Kelly, 75

sudo December 16, 2020

December 5, 2020.

Apache Junction High School, Apache Junction, AZ

Special Education

Obituary:

Jane Elizabeth Kelly, 75, of Apache Junction, AZ passed away December 5, 2020 in Casa Grande, AZ.

Nawai Kalai, 27

sudo December 16, 2020

Died November 1, 2020.

Madison Elementary School District, Phoenix, AZ

Special Education

Local news:

A Madison Elementary School District employee died on Sunday after recently contracting COVID-19. This is the third COVID-related death of a school employee since Thursday. 

Nawaialoha Keli’imahiai Kalai, known as Nawai for short, worked in the district’s special education department as a behavior technician, it said in a Monday statement. The district describes him as a gentle and kind soul who worked tirelessly to ensure students with special needs received a lot love and attention. 

The Madison district’s social workers and counselors are available to help students and staff affected by Kalai’s death, it said. 

“We recognize that a death of an adult in your child’s life, especially one he or she may see every day, may evoke certain reactions,” the district said in its statement. “You may find that your child expresses concern about the health and safety of themselves or others around them, or even demonstrate behavioral signs of grief such as crying, fatigue, depression, and anxiety. It is important to listen to your child and encourage them to share his or her feelings if he or she is having difficulty coping with the loss.”

Outside of school, Kalai was a local musician from Hawaii, according to his YouTube page. 

“Nawai was very passionate about the music, he would always be either listening, singing, or creating,” said Diego Gonzalez-Perea, Kalai’s brother-in-law. He remembered an event where Kalai’s played “You’re Welcome” from Disney’s “Moana” for a couple of toddlers who requested it. 

“Nawai had learned a few Disney songs for the kids and it would always bring smile to the parents rocking out to Nawai’s infinite set of music,” Gonzalez-Perea said.

Kalai and his wife had tested positive for COVID-19 in late October, according to a recent Facebook post by Kalai.

A GoFundMe page set up to help Kalai’s family says he urged everyone to “wear your masks and stay safe if not for yourself then do it for the others around you.”

Kalai’s death comes days after two other COVID-related deaths of employees at the Tolleson Union High School District and the Chandler Unified School District. 

Tolleson football and baseball coach Ash Friederich, 40, died on Sunday. His death was unexpected and heartbreaking, the district’s Superintendent Nora Gutierrez said in a recent statement. The district hired Friederich in 2016 as an English teacher. In the past four years, Friederich also served as a yearbook sponsor and assistant coach for girls softball and girls basketball. 

Chandler IT employee Joseph Sadri died last Thursday at age 74, said district spokesman Terry Locke. Sadri was working in isolation at the district’s former transportation complex, Locke said. Sadri is the second Chandler employee to died after contracting the virus. 

Joe Thomas, president of the Arizona Education Association, said schools need more state and federal resources to ensure they can keep their staff and students safe.  

“The problem is that we don’t have enough classrooms to be socially distant,” Thomas said. “We don’t have enough resources to clean as often as everyone wants to.”

Thomas has heard there are educators who are having to bring in their own disinfectants and other safety equipment. Thomas is also concerned about the lack of HVAC inspections at Arizona schools. 

Ash Friederich, 40

sudo December 15, 2020

Died October 31, 2020.

Tolleson Union High School, Tolleson, AZ

Football coach

People article:

A beloved assistant coach from an Arizona high school left his community reeling after succumbing to coronavirus complications this weekend.

Ash Friederich of Tolleson High School died on Saturday evening after a bout with the virus, according to ABC affiliate KNXV. The 40-year-old coach had been a part of the school’s community since 2016, when he was hired as an English teacher.

“I don’t know what to say,” Scott Richardson, head baseball coach for Tolleson High, told the news station. “[He was] just your typical sports nut that you could probably just sit next to on any Sunday at a sports bar and just start talking sports.”

Friederich quickly became an assistant coach for girls softball and basketball in 2017, then served as a junior varsity coach for girls softball in 2018. This year, after serving as an assistant coach for freshman baseball, Friederich was named coach for the school’s freshman and sophomore team.

“Ash was the guy that always had a smile on his face,” Richardson told the Arizona Republic. “He played the role of good cop to a T, always there to add an encouraging word or pick up a player after a bad game.”

According to Roy Lopez, who runs the school’s football program, Friederich became sick three weeks ago. Lopez told the Republic that Friederich had taken two coronavirus tests but each came back negative, which he says were ultimately false negatives.

The FDA says false-positive results are possible and may occur for various reasons, such as an antibody test detecting a different coronavirus other than the one causing the current pandemic (SARS-CoV-2).

“He progressively got worse,” Lopez told the Republic. “We had already quarantined. Then, after a few days, he was feeling better.

“He had a high respiratory infection on Friday and was admitted [to the hospital],” he added.

It is unclear whether Friederich had been diagnosed with an underlying condition, which can heighten a person’s risk of serious coronavirus symptoms.

According to a New York Times database, Arizona has experienced 6,022 deaths and 249,822 cases attributed to coronavirus as of Tuesday afternoon.

The country as a whole has seen 231,990 deaths and more than 9.4 million cases.