Douglas H. Shoumaker, 40-year newspaperman

The native Tucsonan, father of five, always found life to be ‘great,’ says a daughter.

PAUL L. ALLEN Citizen Staff Writer

Rosary will be recited tomorrow for Douglas Henry Shoumaker, who devoted more than four decades of his life to the newspaper business.

Mr. Shoumaker died Friday, a victim of cancer. He was 68.

He was born March 31, 1929, at the Stork’s Nest, a midwife center in downtown Tucson. By age 5, he was selling newspapers in the downtown area, family members said.

Mr. Shoumaker attended Davis Elementary, Safford Junior High and Tucson High School. Youngest of eight children, he left school in ninth grade to help support the family after the death of his father.

He went to work at Tucson Newspapers Inc. on Nov. 26, 1944, in the stereotyping department, where lead printing plates were made.

He left TNI in 1948 to enter the Navy, and served two years before returning to TNI. He worked in the ”old building” downtown, and moved to the new newspaper plant at South Park Avenue and East Irvington Road when it was completed in 1973.

Mr. Shoumaker was part of the transition of the newspaper business from the ”hot-type” days, with their heavy, unwieldy lead printing plates, to the much lighter zinc printing plates used on modern offset presses.

He retired Feb. 19, 1986.

His daughter, Jenet Soto, said, ”He was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back. Even when he was sick, when you asked him how he was doing, he’d say, ‘Great!’ They called him ‘Tony the Tiger’ because he’d always say, ‘Great!’ ”

Another daughter, Josephine King, said, ”He was a great father. He taught us all how to be self-sufficient.”

Mr. Shoumaker was a voracious reader, and taught himself appliance and electrical repair and auto mechanics, and gained computer expertise by reading manuals ”cover to cover.”

Three years before retirement, he decided to earn his General Educational Development certificate.

After retirement, he worked in income tax preparation, bookkeeping, real estate and at Manufacturing in New Technologies.

Visitation, eulogy and Mass are scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. Friday at Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 1946 E. Lee St. The rosary will be said at 7 p.m. tomorrow at Tucson Mortuary, 204 S. Stone Ave.

In addition to his two daughters, Mr. Shoumaker is survived by his wife of 43 years, Josephine; two other daughters, Gail Holman and Elsa Shoumaker; a son, George Shoumaker; two sisters, Rose Martinez and Virginia Castro; and four grandchildren.

DARWIN, George H., 78, died May 13, 1997. Father of Robert (Judith) Darwin of MN and George (Lynn) Darwin, Jr. of Yuma; five grandchildren and one great-grandson also survive. He was a graduate of the University of Arizona, a Shriner and a lifelong amateur ham operator. He had 30 years of military service with numerous medals of citations including the Purple Heart. Memorial Service, 10:30 a.m., Saturday, May 17, 1997 at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 7651 E. Pima. Burial will be in Minneapolis, MN. In lieu of flowers, contributions to the Salvation Army would be appreciated. Arrangements by BRING’S BROADWAY CHAPEL, 6910 E. Broadway.

LYNCH, Jacqueline A., 67, died May 10, 1997. Originally a native of Brooklyn, New York, Jackie moved to Tucson in 1976 to avoid being a ”long-distance Grandma”. She retired from Tucson Medical Center where she worked for 15 years on the switchboard. She is survived by her family: husband, George V. Lynch; daughters, Christine A. Robbins (Robert D.) and Kathleen M.O’Donald; and her three grandchildren, Keith and Kerri Robbins, and Jordan Lynch. In lieu of flowers, her daughters request remembrances in Jackie’s name to the Tucson Medical Center Hospice Program. Funeral Service, 10:00 a.m., Thursday, May 15, 1997 at BRING’S BROADWAY CHAPEL, with Father Robert Tamminga officiating. Entombment in Our Lady of Desert Mausoleum. Friends may call from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 14 at BRING’S BROADWAY CHAPEL, 6910 E. Broadway.

MEYER, Walter Richard, Jr., died May 11, 1997. He was born June 30, 1919, the son of Walter J. and Edith R. Smead Meyer (both deceased) of Tombstone, AZ. Because his mother died when the twins were born he was raised by his father and aunt, Miss Ollie Meyer, now deceased. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Marian; three children,Walter III (Penny), Lea-Anne Klusman and Russell (Crista) and three grandchildren, Evan, Amanda and Sarah and his twin sister, Edith Wells (Kenny) of Tempe, AZ. Walter graduated from Tombstone High School, attended the University of Arizona for three years and graduated from Kansas State University. During WWII he was in the Army Corp. of Engineers attached to the Air Force as a Captain in charge of troops building Air Bases on Guam. After the war he worked as an irrigation engineer for the Soil Conservation Service-Research Division in Utah and Kansas. After transferring to the United States Geological Survey, he worked in Kansas, Massachusetts, Texas and Tucson, AZ. A celebration of Walter’s life will be held at St. Philip’s in the Hills Episcopal Church, River Rd. and Campbell, at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, May 15, 1997. In lieu of flowers, the family suggest memorials to the Musical Department at St. Philip’s, where Walter was a member of the choir for many years or to the American Diabetic Association, 40 N. Swan Suite 116, Tucson, AZ 85711. Arrangements by BRING’S BROADWAY CHAPEL, 6910 E. Broadway.

NEWTON, Dorothy (Printy) ”Grandma”, 72, of Tucson, died May 7, 1997. Survived by daughter, Sue P. (Kenneth) Giddens; grandchildren, Alexis Megan Giddens and Kendra Julianna Giddens, all of Tucson, dear friend Bill Giddens of Benson; brothers, Nelson C. (Vera) Sabin and William Sabin, both of Battle Creek, MI and numerous nieces and nephews. ”Grandma” volunteered for Quail Run Elementary School, Casas De Los Ninos and was a supporter of Brewster Center, Ronald McDonald House and many other organizations. Memorial service Friday, May 16, 1997, 1:00 p.m. at First Congregational United Church of Christ, 824 N. 2nd Ave, with Rev. Richard L. Smith officiating. The family invites friends for a gathering at the church immediately after services. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Casas De Los Ninos or any other children’s organization. Arrangements by EVERGREEN MORTUARY & CEMETERY.

PEARSON, Paul B. Born in Oakley, Utah, November 28, 1905, died on May 9, 1997. Son of Ada (Brown) and Levi Pearson. B.S. degree from BYU in 1928, M.S. fromMontana State in 1930 and Ph.D. from U. Wisconsin in Biochemistry, 1937. University of Arizona Professor of Family and Community Medicine and Department of Nutrition and Food Science from 1974 until present. Also the Professor and chief of nutrition at the University of Autonoma Guadalajara, Mexico from 1974 until 1995. He is the author or co-author of more than 160 scientific publications and co-editor of two books on International Nutrition. Preceded in death by his wife, Emma Snow. Survived by his two daughters, Paula Soller and husband Raymond Soller of Duluth, GA and Marilyn Johnson and her husband Walter Johnson of Reno, NV; nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; two brothers and two sisters. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to UNICEF, 1-800-FOR-KIDS.

STEIN, Sidney, 80, of Tucson, died May 12, 1997. Survivors include his wife, Lenore; sister, Sally; and brother, Bernard. Loving and loyal to wife, family and friends, he will be deeply mourned and greatly missed. Inurnment will be private. Arrangements by EAST LAWN PALMS MORTUARY.

A Tucson man died after being hit by a car on South Mission Road late Saturday night, authorities said.

Fabian Pancho, 30, of South Mission Road died at University Medical Center at about 8:30 a.m. Sunday, said Sgt. Brad Foust, spokesman for the Pima County Sheriff’s Department.

Witnesses told deputies it appeared Pancho intentionally tried to be hit by passing cars shortly before he was struck at about 11:40 p.m. by a car driven by Leslie Ramirez, 20, of South Dooley Drive.

Ramirez, who was southbound near the 6900 block of South Mission Road, told deputies Pancho was standing in the middle of the lane when she hit him.

Pancho had been drinking, deputies said.

Ramirez was not cited, Foust said, who added the case is being investigated as an accident involving a pedestrian and not a suicide.

CANTRELL, William E., 67, went to be with the Lord Jesus on May 9, 1997 after a long illness. Born March 16, 1930 in Vandalia, MO. Preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and Goldie Mae Cantrell (Eskew) and sister, Hazel Cantrell, age 14. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Joann (Webber); daughter, Laura Mae Reid, Tucson; son, Michael Eugene Cantrell, Hermann, MO; and grandson, Michael William Cantrell, Warrenville, IL. Siblings include, Helen Shepherd, Mexico, MO, Albert L. Cantrell, Cedar Hill, MO, Jesse D. Cantrell, Universal City, TX and Brenda K. Wright, Vandalia, MO. Served as a Staff Sergeant in USAF, 1947 to 1949. Over aperiod of three years he was stationed at DMAFB, Tucson, AZ, South Pacific and Anchorage, AK. Worked at Penn Dixie Steel Mill, Joliet, IL for 24 years as a Millwright. He raised his children in Joliet, IL from 1956 to 1981. He took a medical retirement and moved to Tucson in February, 1981. He was a major pedestal in the installation of three Christian churches located in Joliet, IL, Plainfield, IL and Tucson, AZ. He was a wonderful, dedicated, loving husband and father. His unexpected wit and humor was one of his greatest traits, and until we see him again in heaven, he will always be in our hearts here on earth. A Memorial Service will be held at Pantano Christian Church, 10355 E. 29th, Tucson, AZ, 10:30 a.m., Thursday, 1997. Reception following. All friends, family and acquaintance are invited to attend. No flowers please. Services conducted by VALLEY FUNERAL HOME, 2545 N. Tucson Blvd. (322-6341)

CLAXTON, Wallace Ray, 59, of Tucson, died Saturday, May 10, 1997. Survivors include: wife, Virginia M. ”Ginny” Claxton of Tucson; stepdaughters, Kathy Peterson of Tucson and Pam Peterson of Livermore, CA; sons, Wallace Ray Claxton, Jr. of Napa, CA and David Claxton of Napa, CA; sister, Loveta L. Hill (Bill) of Mena, AR; brother, Larry Claxton of Napa, CA and numerous nephews and nieces. Friends may call at ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Dodge Chapel, 1050 N. Dodge Blvd. (at Speedway), Tuesday, May 13, 1997 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Memorial Services will be at Emmanuel Baptist Church, 1825 N. Alvernon Way, Wednesday, May 14, 1997 at 3:30 p.m., with the Reverend Phil Irby officiating. Memorial donations may be made to the Arthritis Foundation or the American Heart Association.

GARLAND, Herbert Greenfield, 81, of Tucson, died May 12, 1997. Survived by wife of 54 years, Gladys S. Garland; daughters, Lisa A. (Dr. Alex) Martinez, V. Claire (Brian) McKenna, all of Tucson; grandchildren, Alisyn, Michael, Scott and Ian; brother, Leonard Garland of NJ; sister-in-law, Joyce Valenski of NJ. Graveside Services, Thursday, 9:30 a.m., Temple Emanu-El Section, Evergreen Cemetery, with Rabbi Thomas Louchheim of Congregation Or Chadash officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Parkinson Disease Association (Research), 1650 E. Ft. Lowell Rd., Tucson, AZ 85719. Arrangements by EVERGREEN MORTUARY & CEMETERY, N. Oracle & W. Miracle Mile.

HOLT, Gertrude E., 94, died May 10, 1997. Mother of Glen (Phylis) Holt of Tucson and Charles Holt of Illinois; sister of Mildred Schoenfeld of California; four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren also survive. Mrs. Holt resided at Oracle Villa Apartments. Funeral Services and interment in Elmhurst, Illinois. The family suggests donations to the charity of one’s choice. Local arrangements by BRING’S BROADWAY CHAPEL, 6910 E. Broadway.

LYNCH, Jacqueline A., 67, died May 10, 1997. Originally a native of Brooklyn, New York, Jackie moved to Tucson in 1976 to avoid being a ”long-distance Grandma”. She retired from Tucson Medical Center where she worked for 15 years on the switchboard. She is survived by her family: husband, George V. Lynch; daughters, Christine A. Robbins (Robert D.) and Kathleen M.O’Donald; and her three grandchildren, Keith and Kerri Robbins and Jordan Lynch. In lieu of flowers, her daughters request remembrances in Jackie’s name to the Tucson Medical Center Hospice Program. Funeral Service, 10:00 a.m., Thursday, May 15, 1997 at BRING’S BROADWAY CHAPEL, with Father Robert Tamminga officiating. Entombment in Our Lady of Desert Mausoleum. Friends may call from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 14 at BRING’S BROADWAY CHAPEL, 6910 E. Broadway.

OSTAPUK, John M., passed away Sunday, May 11, 1997 after a brief illness. He was born March 11, 1922 in New York. He grew up in New York City, and served in the Pacific Theater during WWII as a navigator and radio operator on C-47′s. After the war he settled in Tucson in 1947. He worked 42 years at Hughes Aircraft. He loved photography, tropical fish and gardening. He traveled often and loved the outdoors. He was a very active member of Sacred Heart Parish and was instrumental in helping establish Kino Learning Center as an educational opportunity for children. His joy of life and humor touched all who knew him. He is survived by eight children, Michael (Kathy), Steve (Rene), Greg (Julie), all of Phoenix, David, Mary (David) Longo of Tucson, Janet (Randy) Bailey of San Diego, Paul (Diane) of Page, AZ and Nancy (Rick) Bennett of Prescott Valley; 17 grandchildren and his companion and friend, Mary Willis. Memorial Services will be held at ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Avalon Chapel, 8090 N. Northern Ave. at Magee, on Wednesday, May 14, 1997 at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation to the Arizona Lung Association.

REED, Patricia,, Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Great-grandmother, 65, died May 11, 1997. Survived by husband, Chester; sons, Fred, Buzz, Bam; daughter-in-law, Tammy; grandchildren, Kelly, Chris, Jessyca, Carrie, Danielle, Marree; and great-grandchild, Kayla. You will be missed but never forgotten. Memorial services will be held at EVERGREEN MORTUARY on Friday, May 16 at 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Tucson Association for the Blind or your favorite charity.

SCHENDEL, Reuben A., long time Tucson resident, died on Friday, May 9, 1997 at the Villa Campana Extended Care Facility. He was 96 years old. Mr. Schendel moved to Tucson from Minneapolis, MN in 1927 to battle active Tuberculosis. After regaining his health, he joined the Vander Vries Realty and Mortgage Company, which later became part of Arizona Trust Company. There, he was instrumental in the development of various commercial properties, such as Tucson National Golf Club and Estates. He maintained his status as Executive Vice President of this firm well into his eighties when he retired. During his years as an active Tucson citizen, Mr. Schendel served on many boards and committees. He was a member of the Tucson Airport Authority, Tucson Sunshine Kwanis Club, board member of the Old Pueblo Club and was involved in many civic and city Chamber of Commerce committees. Additionally, he was a long time member of the Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church. Mr. Schendel is preceded in death by his daughter, Patricia S. Brooks and his wife, Julia C. Schendel. He is survived by his granddaughters, Maura Beland of Santee, CA, Londa Matthieu of El Paso, TX and Cheryl Hintz of Peoria, AZ; a brother-in-law, Louis Clark of Indian Wells, CA; great-grandchildren, Jessica and Jillian Beland, Bradley and Stephanie Hintz. Friends may call at the ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Dodge Chapel, 1050 N. Dodge Blvd. (at Speedway), on Thursday, May 15, 1997 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Services at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Mark Hallemeyer of Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church officiating. Interment to follow at South LawnCemetery.

SEYMOUR, Allen W. ”Ray”, 73, former resident of Gilbert, died May 10, 1997 in Tucson. Survived by wife, Betty; daughter, Candy (Tom) Hastings; grandchildren, Tiffany, Nathaniel and Adam Hastings, all of Tucson; sister, Lois Jump of Mesa. Preceded in death by daughter, Penny Arlene Seymour. Mr. Seymour served in the U.S. Navy during WWII. He worked for New Pueblo Construction for 15 years. Services, Wednesday, 3:30 p.m., EVERGREEN MORTUARY, with Rev. Jane Tews of First United Methodist Church of Gilbert officiating. Interment, Evergreen Cemetery. Friends may call Wednesday, 2:00 p.m. until Service time at EVERGREEN MORTUARY & CEMETERY, N. Oracle & W. Miracle Mile. Memorials may be made to Hospice Family Care.

SHUMA, Adam Raymond ”Ray”, 68, died May 11, 1997. Survived by his wife, Beatrice Shuma; daughter, Sabrina and her husband, Loren Mott; grandchildren, Leah, Nicole, Bradley and Travis. Ray was a loving, caring husband, father and grandfather. Friends may call 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 14, 1997 at EAST LAWN PALMS MORTUARY, 5801 E. Grant Rd., whereFuneral Services will be held, 11:00 a.m., Thursday, May 15, 1997, with Pastor Louis Johnson officiating. Burial to follow at East Lawn Palms Cemetery with full military honors by Davis-Monthan Air Force Base.

STEIN, Sidney, 80, of Tucson, died May 12, 1997. Survivors include his wife, Lenore; sister, Sally; and brother, Bernard. Loving and loyal to wife, family and friends, he will be deeply mourned and greatly missed. Inurnment will be private. Arrangements by EAST LAWN PALMS MORTUARY.

WIRSCHING, Alice Ann, 89, died May 10, 1997. Survived by her son, Paul H. (Jeanne C.) Wirsching; grandchildren, Paul H. Jr., Susan (Donald) Dempski, Patricia (Michael) Gipson and Catherine (Mark) Roberts; great-grandchildren, Jenna, Angela, Christopher and Shaina Dempski, Michael and Andrew Gipson, Katherine, Elizabeth, William (Jack) Roberts. Friends may call 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 13, 1997 with a Vigil Service to be held at 7:00 p.m. at EAST LAWN PALMS CHAPEL, 5801 E. Grant Rd. Funeral Mass will be held 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, May 14, 1997 at St. Cyril’s Church, 4725 E. Pima. Burial to follow at East Lawn Palms Cemetery.

A new approach to preventing suicide

Males older than 65 are more likely to take their own lives than any other age group.

PATTY MACHELOR Citizen Staff Writer

Counselors from Southern Arizona Mental Health Corp. are hoping to reach Northwest Side communities with a new approach to suicide prevention.

As suicide rates climb nationwide, SAMHC’s Dick Janney and Catherine Dumitrov are offering ”Question, Persuade, Refer” training to combat the problem here.

On the Northwest Side, where many residents are over age 65, the training could help those most susceptible to suicide, Janney said.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, men over 65 make up the highest percentage of suicide victims nationwide.

Arizona tied with Montana for third place in suicides – 18.4 per every 100,000 residents during 1993, the most recent numbers available.

Considering that ranking, Janney said the elderly here are in a dangerously high risk group.

Young men ages 15 to 25 make up the second highest group, according to federal statistics.

QPR training is geared to give community members guidelines for helping suicidal people in three phases.

The first step is to open communication by questioning a despondent person about what he is feeling and eventually ask if suicide is being considered.

Janney said it is important to ”explode the myth” that if suicide is brought up, it will give the person the idea to do it.

He said the other two steps include encouraging the person to seek help and, at last, referring him to a hot line or counseling agency.

If the person is unwilling to call, Janney said, the friend should make the call for him.

He said the second dangerous myth is that if someone says he is thinking of killing himself, there’s no way to stop him.

”It’s just not true,” he said. ”If you can get people past the crisis, you can give them hope.”

The Rev. James Conrad of Oro Valley’s Episcopal Church of the Apostles agrees with Janney. Conrad said his parish has a similar referral system that has worked for suicidal members.

In his 24 years as a priest, he has lost three parish members to suicide.

He said when he began serving the Oro Valley church, he had members break into small discussion groups on a regular basis where, he hoped, people would be more likely to share.

Overall, five people confided their suicidal feelings to members of their group and were referred to SAMHC or private counselors. None of them committed suicide, he said.

”One of the policies we have is, if someone mentions suicide, I’m told and they are referred as quickly as possible,” he said.

”I think that prevention is one of the most important things we can work toward in any community, and the only way to prevent is to know and refer.”

Janney said the elderly in Arizona are particularly vulnerable if they have moved around.

”Some of the residents in the northwest come to the area and have to re-establish social contacts and medical systems,” he said.

”In general, they’re not in a familiar place and all of these things can contribute to people feeling disconnected from society.”

The more isolated an individual is, the more at risk he becomes, he said.

”We want the community to know there is a way to help people, to encourage people to go get help,” Janney said.

Ron Adler, chief executive officer for SAMHC, said people should learn suicide prevention tactics in the same way they learn first aid or how to help someone who is choking.

Community center workers, home health care nurses and neighbors are among those who can easily reach isolated elderly people, while school employees and recreation center workers might be able to reach a suicidal teen-ager.

TRAINING

Anyone interested in learning more about ”Question, Persuade, Refer” training may call Dick Janney at 622-6000.

NORTHWEST SUICIDE NUMBERS

In Oro Valley, three suicides were reported from March 1996 through Jan. 1, 1997. Two juvenile boys died of gunshots, and an elderly woman overdosed on a prescription drug, police said.

In the unincorporated areas of the Northwest Side, there were nine suicides and 61 attempted suicides during the past year, according to Pima County Sheriff’s Department records. Age and gender breakdowns were unavailable.

The number of suicides in Marana during the past year was unavailable from police.

Sheriff’s deputies have released the names of the victim and the shooter in what investigators call an attempted murder and suicide near Green Valley on Friday night.

The shooter was Thomas William Mastin Jr., 55, of Amado, who died of a head wound, deputies said.

His victim is Richard Arbo, 58, of Nogales, who was in critical condition today at University Medical Center, a nursing supervisor said.

After Mastin found Arbo with his wife, Keith Moore Mastin, 46, Mastin shot Arbo several times, then killed himself, said Sgt. Brad Foust, a Pima County Sheriff’s Department spokesman.

Thomas Mastin, who had left his residence earlier after being served a restraining order by his estranged wife, returned with a male friend about 10:15 p.m., Foust said.

Mastin’s friend went to the door and contacted the wife, Foust said. Mastin then approached the house and found Arbo in the home with his wife, Foust said.

Foust said Mastin went to his truck and got a handgun. Mastin then re-entered the home and shot Arbo several times, including in the torso, Foust said.

Keith Mastin grabbed a portable phone and fled the house, Foust said. She hid and called 911.

Keith Mastin heard one more shot, and deputies later found her husband lying dead next to Arbo.

Foust said Mastin’s friend also fled and has not been located.

CALDERON, Alejandro, 88, of Tucson, passed away May 10, 1997. Survived by wife, Socorro Calderon; daughters, Yolanda A. Calderon of Phoenix, AZ, Marta (Jim) Buchanan of Tucson, AZ; Nancy (Nicholas) Dye of Riverside, CA; son, Mike (Patty) Calderon of Tucson, AZ; sister, Luisa Mayorga. Also survived by four grandchildren, Monique Quintana, Michael Calderon, Cecilia Buchanan, and Pierre Calderon. Visitation will be held on Monday, May 12, 1997 from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at CARRILLO’S TUCSON MORTUARY, (Center Chapel), 240 S. Stone Ave., with Rosary recited at 7:00 p.m. Mass will be offered on Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. at St. Margaret’s Church, 801 N. Grande Ave. Interment to follow at Holy Hope Cemetery. The family wishes to thank the staff of St. Mary’s Hospital and St. Mary’s Hospice. Mr. Calderon was a loving father and grandfather. He will be missed greatly by his beloved family and many friends. Arrangements by CARRILLO’S TUCSON MORTUARY, INC.

FORD, Thomas Roberts, beloved husband of Cornelia (Nina) Porter Ford, of West Hartford, CT, died Saturday, May 10, 1997 at John Dempsey Hospital, Farmington, CT. A lifelong resident of West Hartford, he was the son of the late Richard Nelson Ford and Elizabeth Beede Ford, and grandson of Carl Greenleaf Beede and Mabel Merrill Beede. He was a graduate of Avon Old Farms School and Yale University. In 1957, he started a 36-year career at Cigna as a Securities Analyst and retired in 1993 as Assistant Vice President and Controller of the CID Financial Division. Throughout his life, Tom was concerned for the environment and people in need. He volunteered his time and expertise for a wide variety of causes. He was on the Board of Directors for I Have a Dream/Asylum Hill, was an actor with the Windsor Jesters and other community theater groups, and a narrator for Talking Books. For the Hartford Seminary, he served on the Investment Committee, Planned Giving Committee, was Vice Chair for the Annual Fund, A Corporator, and a bookstore volunteer at the Gathering Place. Tom loved to play tennis, travel, shoot hoops with his sons, and practice his whistling. In addition to his wife, Tom is survived by his children, Becky and Nick Lai of New York City, NY, Dan and Mary Ford of Croton-on-Hudson, NY, Ted Ford of Seattle, WA, Andrew Ford of Seattle, WA; his sister and brother-in-law, Mimi and Christopher Stahler of Wenatchee, WA; his brother and sister-in-law, Gordon and Elli Ford of Center Sandwich, NH; his stepmother, Margaret Twombly of Bloomfield, CT; his aunt, Miriam Beede Imlah of Falls Church, VA; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Richard and Grace Porter Hill of Tucson, AZ; and his brother-in-law, Ronald Fraser of Palm Beach, FL. A memorial service will be held at Immanuel Congregational Church, 10 Woodland Street, Hartford, CT. Contributions in Tom’s memory may be made to the Tucson Botanical Gardens. The Taylor & Modeen Funeral Home, 136 S. Main St., West Hartford, CT, is in charge of arrangements.

GANDARA, Ramona F., 81, of Tucson, passed away May 10, 1997. Survived by daughter, Cecilia Montes; son, Francisco Gandara. Other survivors include four brothers; and one sister. Also surviving are five grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 13, 1997 from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at CARRILLO’S TUCSON MORTUARY, (South Chapel), 240 S. Stone Ave., with Rosary recited at 7:00 p.m. Mass will be offered on Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. at St. John’s Church, 602 W. Ajo Way. Interment to follow at Holy Hope Cemetery. Arrangements by CARRILLO’S TUCSON MORTUARY, INC.

MERRIAM, William, age 64, of Benson, died on Thursday, May 8, 1997. Mr. Merriam was an automotive mechanic. Visitation will take place on Tuesday, May 13, 1997 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Dodge Chapel, 1050 N. Dodge Blvd (at Speedway). Graveside services will follow at the Pima County Cemetery.

PHILIPSON, Syra, 75, of Tucson, died May 10, 1997. Survived by her husband of 50 years, Benjamin Philipson; sons, Dr. Elliot H. (Sandra J.) Philipson of Cleveland, OH; Dr. Jonathan D. (Beth) Philipson of Baltimore, MD; grandchildren, Rebecca Philipson, Julia Philipson, Jordan Philipson, and Ethan Philipson; sister, Roslyne (Henry H.) Kaufmann of Tucson; brother-in-law, Dr. Lloyd S. Epstein of Tucson; many nieces and nephews. mrs. Philipson was a devoted wife, mother, and a talented art teacher. Service will be held Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. EVERGREEN MORTUARY, N. Oracle & W. Miracle Mile, with Rabbi Arthur R. Oleisky of Congregation Anshei Israel officiating. Interment Congregation Anshei Israel Section of Evergreen Cemetery. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 13423, Tucson, 85732.

REA, Richard ”Dick” J., 75, went to be with the Lord May 10, 1997. Survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Mona M. Rea; his beloved sons, Harold R. (Linda) Rea and Rickey L. Rea; precious grandsons, Jack, Wayne, and Scott. Richard is preceded in death by his father, mother, and sister. He was born on July 8, 1921 in Salem, Ohio. Friends may call Tuesday, May 13, 1997 from 10:00 a.m. until service time at 11:00 a.m. at EAST LAWN PALMS CHAPEL,5801 E. Grant Rd. Pastor John Miller of the Northwest Bible Church officiating. Burial will be at East Lawn Palms Cemetery.

WIRSCHING, Alice Ann, 89, died May 10, 1997. Survived by her son, Paul H. (Jeanne C.) Wirsching; grandchildren, Paul H. Jr., Susan (Donald) Dempski, Patricia (Michael) Gipson and Catherine (Mark) Roberts; great-grandchildren, Jenna, Angela, Christopher and Shaina Dempski, Michael and Andrew Gipson, Katherine, Elizabeth, William (Jack) Roberts. Friends may call 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 13, 1997 with a Vigil Service to be held at 7:00 p.m. at EAST LAWN PALMS CHAPEL, 5801 E. Grant Rd. Funeral Mass will be held 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, May 14, 1997 at St. Cyril’s Church, 4725 E. Pima. Burial to follow at East Lawn Palms Cemetery.

BENNETT, Dawn Y., 81, died May 7, 1997, preceded in death by Robert F. Bennett. Survived by sons Robert W., Gerald C. (Lisa), and daughter Cheryl (Mark) Barrios, grandchildren Michael (Rosi), Scott (Michelle), Kendra, Ashley Lightfoot, Stephanie, Tracy, and Scott Bennett, and great-grandson Malachi Bushey. Dawn was a cosmetology instructor, belonged to the Eastern Stars and the Soroptimist Club in Flat Rock, Michigan. A memorial service will be held at St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, 3737 N. Old Sabino Canyon Road, on May 24, 19976 at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations will be accepted at Arizona Lung Association and St. Alban’s Building Fund.

DANGERFIELD, Bobby E., 60, of Tucson, died May 3, 1997. Friends may call on Tuesday, May 13 from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. with Services to follow. Arrangements by ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Dodge Chapel, 1050 N. Dodge Blvd. (at Speedway).

LARSON, Victoria, 86, died May 7, 1997. Mother of Muriel Carlton of Sahuarita and Robert Larson of Peru, Indiana; two grandchildren and four great-grandchildren also survive. Funeral Service, 10:00 a.m., Tuesday May 13, 1997 at BRING’S BROADWAY CHAPEL, with Father Walter Klemchuck officiating. Interment to follow at Our Lady of the Desert Cemetery. Rosary will be recited at 6:00 p.m., Monday, May 12, 1997 at BRING’S BROADWAY CHAPEL, and friends may call from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m., Monday, May 12, 1997 at BRING’S BROADWAY CHAPEL, 6910 E. Broadway.

MCCARVILLE, Jerome M. ”Jerry”, 72, Lt. Col. USAF (Ret.), died May 9, 1997. He leaves his wife of 47 years, Nina Lyerly McCarville; three children, Janice (Dick) Marshall, James (Denise) McCarville and Judith (Ted) Krag; grandchildren, Heather, Bryan, Stacy and Leah; his mother, Ethel McCarville and three sisters and two brothers; plus many nieces and nephews. Private Services were held. In lieu of flowers please leave remembrances to the Pima Air Museum. Arrangements by Hudgel’s SWAN FUNERAL HOME.

SANDERS, Charles E., 58, of Tucson, died May 7, 1997. Survived by wife, Alicia; children, Glenda (Steve) Bracamonte, Charles, Mary and Richard; brothers, Bill, Ted (Maria), Fred (Billie), George (Jeane), Elda (Rubin) Munoz, Jack (Patricia) Metz; mother-in-law, Delfina Armenta; and eight grandchildren. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated, 10:00 a.m., Monday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 602 W. Ajo. Interment will be in Holy Hope Cemetery. Friends may call, Saturday, 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at VALLEY FUNERAL HOME, 2545 N. Tucson Blvd. (1 1/2 blocks N. of Grant) 327-6341.

SCHWARZ, Josef, 80, of Tucson, died Friday, May 9, 1997. He is survived by his wife, Anna; daughters, Ingrid (Herman) Kron, Elsie (David) Cassity; sons, Gunther Schwarz, Martin Schwarz; granddaughters, Suzy Cassity, Alison Cassity (Ray) Perez, Lisa (Dan) Hull, Monica Kron; great-granddaughters, Kaylyn Hull, Kristina Hull. Joe was a farmer in Europe nurturing the soil. Joe was a baker in Chicago nurturing people. Joe was friend to all, nurturing a friendly smile for life and joy. We are all going to miss him. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, May 12, 1997 at EAST LAWN PALMS MORTUARY CHAPEL, 5801 E. Grant Rd. Interment will follow at East Lawn Palms Cemetery. Friends may call at the mortuary on Sunday from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. A Vigil Service will be at 7:00 p.m. Memorial donations may be made to the Community Food Bank, 3003 S. Country Club, Tucson 85713.

SWANSON, Ruth A., 86, died May 3, 1997. She will be lovingly missed by children, Del (Judy) Timper of Tucson, Ed (Jayne) Timper of Wisconsin and Beverly (Vincent) Palermo of Pennsylvania; brother, Russel Edmiston of Illinois; sisters, Alice Hajney of Tucson, Mary Ellen Elliot of Wisconsin and Jeanette Freeland of Illinois; grandchildren, Rachel Kipka of New Hampshire, Catherine Timper of Tucson, Alan Timper and Leigh Timper, both of Wisconsin and Vinnie Palermo of Pennsylvania. Memorial Service, 4:30 p.m., Monday, May 12, 1997 at BRING’S BROADWAY CHAPEL, 6910 E. Broadway, with Reverend Patrick Henry officiating. Contributions to the charity of your choice would be appreciated.

TURNER, Paul Rudolph, went to be with our Lord, May 6, 1997. Born in Terre Haute, IN, May 24, 1909, survived by wife, Bertha Leota (Wyant) Turner; daughter and son-in-law, Norma and George Kalmar of Tucson, AZ, daughter and son-in-law, Nancy and Jim McCoy of Powell,OH; son and daughter-inlaw, Paul and Sandy Turner of LaGrange, CA; son and daughter-in-law, Garry and Marita Turner of Stockport, OH; and daughter and son-in-law, Jan and Frank Bolin of Grove City, OH; 10 grandchildren; seven 7 step-grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; 16 step-great-grandchildren; nieces, Marie Turner and Irene Ripley of Terre Haute, IN, Doris Mae Hart of Paulding, OH and Laura Lee Rodgers of Conroe, TX. Paul and Bertha were married, October 26, 1935, in Marshall, IL. Paul leaves a void in the lives of all his family that can never be filled, a treasure trove of memories both sad and funny. Paul worked for Thomson-Symon Printing Company in Terre Haute, IN and later moved his family to Columbus, OH where he held the position of commercial artist for 33 years for F and R Lazarus Company and retired in 1978. Paul and Bertha moved to McConnelsville, OH and in 1991 moved to Tucson, AZ. Farewell, Paul, only congestive hear failure, emphysema, pneumonia andfather time could overwhelm your unconquerable spirit. A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, May 12, 1997 at Mt. Zion Lutheran Church. Cremation by HEATHER MORTUARY AND CHAPELS. The family wishes to thank the staff of St. Mary’s Hospital, Holy Family Center and Carondelet Hospice Services for their sensitivity and caring. Memorial donations, in lieu of flowers, may be made to Carondelet Hospice Services, 1802 W. St. Mary’s Rd., Tucson, AZ 85745.

WARMAN, Jean J., 88, of Tucson, passed away May 3, 1997. Preceded in death by her husband, S.C. ”Dusty” Warman, veteran Tucson Citizen newspaperman. Jean was a retired Tucson School District One teacher of 27 years. Survived by son, David; grandchildren, Kim Mercado of Las Vegas, NV, Karina and Kyle Warman of Boyce, LA. Memorial Service will be held at Catalina United Methodist Church, 2700 E. Speedway on Tuesday, May 13, 1997 at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Catalina United Methodist Church. Arrangements by HEATHER MORTUARY.

A murder-suicide ruling in the deaths of a woman and her two daughters is expected.

Citizen Staff and Wire Reports

A former Tucson emergency doctor believed to have poisoned herself and her two daughters attempted suicide while residing in Georgia after learning her husband was having an affair, according to police documents.

The bodies of Dr. Paula Blackman, 44, and her girls – 10-year-old Sarah and 12-year-old Jessica – were found Tuesday in the Scottsdale apartment they had moved into late last year when Robert Blackman was transferred from the Atlanta area.

Blackman, who found them, told police his wife had tried to kill herself by swallowing pills and placing a plastic bag over her head in August 1996 after learning he was having an affair, according to police documents seen yesterday.

At the time, Blackman said, he was living in Arizona while his wife, a native of Tucson who had moved to Georgia as a result of her husband’s first transfer, continued to work as an emergency room physician there.

He said she called to tell him she had swallowed the pills and that he called her brother, who also lived in Georgia and was able to get her help.

Police responding to Blackman’s report of the deaths Tuesday evening found empty bottles of insulin and red wine in the kitchen and a bottle of muscle relaxant pills by Paula Blackman’s bed.

Scottsdale police are hesitant to say Paula Blackman poisoned her two daughters and then killed herself until they receive the toxicology reports.

”We do not feel there is a triple homicide suspect on the loose,” said Sgt. Mike Anderson, a spokesman for Scottsdale police. ”But we can’t confirm that she poisoned them (right now).”

Anderson said Robert Blackman is not a suspect.

Paula Blackman took her daughters out of school early Tuesday, and they were found about 6 p.m. by Robert Blackman after he came home from work, police said.

The two daughters were found dead and dressed in street clothes in their bedrooms with the covers pulled halfway over them, Anderson said. The wife also was found dead in her bedroom, he said.

Anderson said toxicology reports could take two to eight weeks to be completed.

Paula Blackman, a 1979 graduate of the University of Arizona Medical School, worked at Columbia El Dorado Hospital as an emergency room physician from June 1986 to June 1991.

She was not employed by the hospital, but by Southwest Physicians, a group contracted to work at the hospital, said Sandra Khawan, the hospital’s marketing director.

”She was well-respected by her peers and the hospital staff that worked with her,” Khawan said.

Man shot; gunman kills self; wife flees

A man recently served with divorce papers shot another man standing with his estranged wife near Green Valley last night, then killed himself, authorities said.

Sgt. Brad Foust of the Pima County Sheriff’s Office said the husband had found his wife with two men at the woman’s Amado home, in the 1400 block of West Dove Way, about 10:15 p.m.

The husband approached the wife, who told him he was in violation of a restraining order, when he noticed one of the men in the house, Foust said.

Foust said the husband, whose name wasn’t released, shot the man several times with a handgun. The other man fled.

The wife grabbed a cellular telephone and fled into the desert, where she called 911, Foust said.

When the husband went outside, his wife heard one gunshot and then found him dead, Foust said.

The wounded man was airlifted to University Medical Center, where he was listed in critical condition early today.

Foust said the friend, believed to have fled into the desert, had not been located as of early today.

- Linda Witt

Michael Blazak, who faced down three execution dates here, dies at a New Mexico mine.

RHONDA BODFIELD and DAVID L. TEIBEL Citizen Staff Writers

Former Tucsonan Mitchell Blazak, who spent 20 years on death row maintaining his innocence and then walked out of prison 2 1/2 years ago to speak out against the death penalty, died Thursday in a truck crash in New Mexico.

Blazak was driving his tractor tanker unit on the shoulder of a private miningsmelter road leading to State Route 9 near Playas when he overcorrected twice and rolled threequarters of a turn, said Deborah Archer, with the New Mexico State Police.

The tractor burned entirely and the tanker came to rest on its side but did not catch fire. Blazak was pronounced dead at 12:57 p.m. at the scene, south of Lordsburg, near the Arizona border, police said.

Blazak, 50, was never one to talk about death, having faced down three execution dates. Prosecutors maintained he gunned down two people in a 1973 botched robbery of Tucson’s Brown Fox Tavern.

”A reporter asked me once what I thought it would feel like, dying. . . . I just don’t allow myself to think that far. That’s not productive at all,” Blazak said in an interview with the Tucson Citizen last March.

He was released from prison in October 1994 after being granted a new trial on the grounds he did not receive a hearing to determine his mental competency.

Before the second trial, he accepted a plea bargain, pleading no contest to second-degree, non-premeditated murder and was sentenced to time already served.

After his release, he rarely discussed what went on in prison, preferring instead to talk about finding his now-31-year-old, long-lost daughter in 1991.

He worked for several trucking firms and moved into the El Paso home of his daughter’s adoptive parents, who remain convinced of his innocence .

Sara Addis, his daughter’s adoptive mother, said despite the irony of the accident, she is not bitter.

”I think we all have a time, and I think God knows when that time is,” Addis said last night. ”When the time’s up, it’s up . . . I’ll always have beautiful memories of the time that we had with him, and I think he died happy.

”Probably for the first time in his life, he was happy. I think he had found himself. I feel he had adjusted to society where in the beginning he was skeptical with dealing with (so much) all at one time.”

Addis said Blazak last spoke to her Tuesday, when he told her he was hoping to purchase a trailer lot between El Paso and Tucson to be near some of his family.

”He said he was wanting to settle down and he said, ‘I’m so proud of myself. I did it all by myself,’ ” she recounted.

Addis, who said she lost her best friend with his death, believes Blazak drew the wrong cards in life but deserved applause in the end.

He never fulfilled the dire predictions of his critics that he would end up back in prison, she said, instead spending the last few years going to school, working and having family gatherings.

”He had a lot of charisma and people like him, all except in Arizona. I don’t understand that. Here in El Paso, he’s one of the happiest people I’ve ever met. He found he was a winner in the end.”

Blazak’s sister, Laura, who lives in Tucson, declined comment last night.

Thomas E. Higgins Jr., a former attorney and boyhood friend of Blazak, said one of Blazak’s relatives said authorities told her the severely burned body in a burnedout truck is presumed to be Blazak’s.

Higgins was told the body was burned beyond recognition and final identification will depend on a comparison of remains to Blazak’s dental records.

New Mexico police could not confirm the method of identification last night. They did not have more detailed information, and referred calls to an investigating officer who was no longer on duty.

”Kind of incredible, huh?” said Higgins, who grew up four houses from Blazak and attended St. Joseph’s Parochial School with him.

Higgins represented Blazak in Superior Court from 1978 to 1980 in efforts to have his conviction overturned.

”I’m upset over the death,” Higgins said. ”It’s really bizarre after all that he went through.”

PHOTO CAPTION: Citizen file photo

Mitchell Blazak spends time with his long-lost daughter, Kathleen Addis, after being released from prison in 1994. She learned Blazak learned Blazak was her natural father in 1991, when a private investigator tracked him down on death row.

Fantasy 5 results

for May 9, 1997

Yesterday’s winning

numbers 13-17-27-29-30

Winners per category

5 of 5 0 $50,000

4 of 5 28 $500

3 of 5 941 $5

Lottery hot line: 325-9141

Hearse driver kills self in front of shop

PHOENIX – A man drove a hearse to the front of a pawnshop where he had worked and killed himself, police said.

Signs on the side windows of the hearse read ”dead serious,” and another on its windshield read, ”tell the world throw a huge wake.”

The man, who name wasn’t released, shot himself yesterday.

Four convicted of racketeering

PHOENIX – Four residents of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community accused in a two-year crime spree have been convicted on racketeering and other charges.

Federal prosecutors say crimes committed by the men and their associates in the East Side Crip Rolling 30s gang included murder, armed robbery, fire bombings, drive-by shootings and witness intimidation.

Besides racketeering, Riley Briones Jr., 20, was convicted of first-degree murder, robbery and arson. Philbert Antone, 26, also was convicted of first-degree murder and robbery.

Ricardo Briones, 18, was convicted of racketeering, witness tampering and two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon. Riley Briones Sr., 37, was convicted of witness tampering and racketeering.

Among the crimes attributed to the gang during 1994 and 1995 was the armed robbery and murder of Brian Patrick Lindsay, a clerk at a Scottsdale Subway store in 1994.

Riley Briones Jr. and Antone face life sentences. Riley Briones Sr. and Ricardo Briones face 30 years in prison.

Sentencing is set for July 28.

Compiled by Roy Y. Olivas from Citizen and Associated Press reports

HUMES, Robert G., 59, of Tucson, died May 7, 1997. He is survived by his wife, Martha; daughter, Melanie; mother, Winnefried Griffin; sister, Joyce Rausch; extended family and friends. Memorial Services will be held Saturday, May 10, 1997, 3:30 p.m., at ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Avalon Chapel, 8090 N. Northern Ave. @Magee, with Pastor Daniel Hodgson officiating

KOTOUC, Helen R., 75, of Tucson, died May 7, 1997. She is survived by her husband, Walter; daughters, Christy Larson and Cindy Miller. A long time resident of Tucson, she was active in girl scouting and loved to travel. Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Alzheimer’s Foundation. Arrangemens by HEATHER MORTUARY.

KRMPOTICH, John L., 70, died May 6, 1997. Husband of Bridget Krmpotich; brother of Michael (Marlene) Krmpotich of Tempe and Martha (Tom) Salven of CA; uncle of Mark (Vera), Michael Jr., Deane, George II, Robert and Andrew Krmpotich; nephew of Ankica Uvalic and Lujia Grdan, both of Croatia. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mike and Mary Krmpotich and his brother Dr. George Krmpotich. John worked up until his death with the Pima County Waste & Water Management. Mass will be offered 10:00 a.m. Saturday, May 10 at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, 1375 S. Camino Seco, with Father Robert Tamminga and Father Floyd Strongberg officiating.Entombment to follow at Holy Hope Cemetery. Rosary will be recited 7:00 p.m. Friday, May 9 at the Church and friends may call from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, May 9 at the Church. Contributions to the Tucson Residence Foundation, 5049 E. Broadway, #124, Tucson, AZ 85711 would be appreciated.Arrangements by BRING’S BROADWAY CHAPEL, 6910 E. Broadway.

MARTINEZ, Manuel L., 78, of Tucson, passed away May 6, 1997. Preceded in death by his beloved wife, Maria and daughter, Margie M. Thompson. Survived by daughters, Dolores Marinez, Isabel M. (Willie) Figueroa, Sally (Frank) Alegria; sons, Frank (Irma), David (Gina); sister, Anita Fernandez; nine grandchildren. Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 11, 1997 from 4:00 to 10:00 p.m. at CARRILLO’S TUCSON MORTUARY, (South Chapel), 240 S. Stone Ave., with Rosary recited at 7:00 p.m. Mass will be offered on Monday, May 12, 1997 at 9:00 a.m. at St. Augustine Cathedral, 192 S. Stone Ave. Interment to follow at Holy Hope Cemetery. Arrangements by CARRILLO’S TUCSON MORTUARY.

TURNER, Paul Rudolph, went to be with our Lord, May 6, 1997. Born in Terre Haute, IN, May 24, 1909, survived by wife, Bertha Leota (Wyant) Turner; daughter and son-in-law, Nancy and Jim McCoy of Powell, OH; son and daughter-in-law, Paul and Sandy Turner of LaGrange, CA; son and daughter-in-law, Garry and Marita Turner of Stockport, OH; and daughter and son-in-law, Jan and Frank Bolin of Grove City, OH; 10 grandchildren; seven 7 step-grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; 16 step-great-grandchildren; nieces, Marie Turner and Irene Ripley of Terre Haute, IN, Doris Mae Hart of Paulding, OH and Laura Lee Rodgers of Conroe, TX. Paul and Bertha were married, October 26, 1935, in Marshall, IL. Paul leaves a void in the lives of all his family that can never be filled, a treasure trove of memories both sad and funny. Paul worked for Thomson-Symon Printing Company in Terre Haute, IN and later moved his family to Columbus, OH where he held the position of commercial artist for 33 years for F and R Lazarus Company and retired in 1978. Paul and Bertha moved to McConnelsville, OH and in 1991 moved to Tucson, AZ. Farewell, Paul, only congestive hear failure, emphysema, pneumonia and father time could overwhelm your unconquerable spirit. A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, May 12, 1997 at Mt. Zion Lutheran Church. Cremation by HEATHER MORTUARY AND CHAPELS. The family wishes to thank the staff of St. Mary’s Hospital, Holy Family Center and Carondelet Hospice Services for their sensitivity and caring. Memorial donations, in lieu of flowers, may be made to Carondelet Hospice Services, 1802 W. St. Mary’s Rd., Tucson, AZ 85745.

The mother, an ex-Tucson physician, is said to have been depressed.

The Associated Press

SCOTTSDALE – A deeply depressed ex-Tucson physician most likely poisoned herself and her two daughters, but authorities said yesterday it will take a week to finish toxicology tests.

Robert Blackman, 46, found his wife, Paula, 44, and their daughters dead in their apartment Tuesday evening. The girls – Jessica, 12, and Sarah, 10 – were lying in bed with a sheet partially pulled over them.

Frank Ciaccio, Maricopa County’s chief medical examiner, said initial autopsies reinforced poisoning suspicions because ”there were no obvious signs of trauma.”

”We are looking into that area,” Ciaccio said. ”We have to get samples of their body fluids to determine what’s in their systems.”

Scottsdale police have said the absence of wounds suggested poisoning. There was no sign of forced entry into the apartment.

Prescription drugs and a hypodermic needle were found in the bedroom where Blackman found his wife’s body, said Sgt. Mike Anderson, a police spokesman. No suicide note was found but police were examining a home computer for possible clues.

People who knew Paula Blackman said she and her husband were having marital problems and Paula Blackman had been very depressed.

If she did poison her daughters and herself, it would fit with the pattern in which women shy away from violence, said Jack Levin, director of the Program for the Study of Violence and Conflict at Northeastern University in Boston.

”Violence is a masculine trait,” he said. ”Men are more likely to kill strangers. When women kill, they kill people they know very well.”

Levin said when women kill, 80 percent of victims are family members, mainly daughters. And 40 percent of those killings are done with poison, he said.

Levin, the author of several books about murder, said women usually kill when they are depressed and under stress. The killings often are preceded by serious problems such as an illness, marital trouble or money problems, he said.

Paula Blackman, an emergency room physician who studied and practiced in Tucson, had moved with her family to Atlanta suburbs of Duluth and Roswell in 1990 when her husband, an investment banker, was transferred.

Another bank transfer brought the family to the Phoenix suburb late last year. Paula Blackman had retained her license but was not practicing medicine.

Alan Grover of Glendale, the Tucson native’s first husband, described his wife of three years as ”gorgeous, vivacious, outgoing.” They divorced 20 years ago.

”She loved to party; she loved being outdoors hiking,” he said. ”She loved people. She was very strong, very strong-minded. She knew what she wanted to do.”

Dr. Philippe Gadegbeku, who worked with Paula Blackman at the R.T. Jones Regional Hospital in Canton, Ga., about 34 miles north of Atlanta, said she was an excellent doctor.

But he said ”she was under a lot of stress, a lot of personal stress. She was very outgoing, very strong personality, but then she began having problems with her marriage.

”She cared a lot for her kids. She was devastated. She became very depressed. The only time I thought she might have done something like this was a few months before she left,” Gadegbeku added.

Jim Rocha, quality management director of Tucson’s Columbia Eldorado Hospital where Dr. Blackman worked prior to the Georgia move, said he remembers the Blackmans as a devoted family.

”We always saw them together,” he said. ”It wasn’t like there was any big stormy thing going on.”

Doctors at Southwest Physicians Group, which provides emergency room physicians for the hospital, issued an informal statement saying Paula Blackman was an ”excellent physician and was well-respected and liked among her peers.”

ALEXANDER, John Williams, S/Sgt., U.S.A.F., Ret., 65, died May 6, 1997.Husband of Molly Alexander; father of Lilly Cota of Tucson; five grandchildren also survive. Rosary will be recited, 6:00 p.m., Thursday, May 8, 1997 at BRING’S MEMORIAL CHAPEL, followed by Military Honors provided by Davis-Monthan Air Force Base Honor Guard. Friends may call from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, May 8, 1997 at BRING’S MEMORIAL CHAPEL, 236 S. Scott.

ALLEN, Earl J., S/SGT., Ret., U.S.M.C., age 62, of Tucson, passed away May 5, 1997. Survived by mother, Vallerie Allen of Tucson, wife, Allyce Allen of California; children, Valerie J. Allen, Eric A. Allen and Craig Allen, all of California; first cousin, Herbert (Betty) Allen of Tucson; three grandchildren, and a host of relatives and friends. S/Sgt.Allen was retired with over 20 years service from the U.S. Marine Corp. Full Military Graveside Services, 10:00 a.m., Friday, May 9, 1997 with Rev. D. Grady Scott of Grace Temple Baptist officiating. Friends may call at SOUTH LAWN MORTUARY CHAPEL, 5401 S. Park Ave., Friday, May 9 from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m.

BIESIADA, Janet Louise, age 62, ofTucson, AZ. Formerly of New Jersey.Beloved mother, wife and friend to all.Survived by husband, Stan; daughter, Karen (Tom); son, Andrew; three grandchildren, Ajay, Caitlin, Mac and her loving friends. Services will be held, Thursday, May 8, 1997 at Holy Way Presbyterian Church, 4221 W. Ajo Way. Officiating, Rev. Raymond Thomas.

CHAVARRIA, Juan P., 72, of Tucson, passed away May 6, 1997. Preceded in death by son, Alejandro Chavarria. Survived by wife, Josefina; daughters, Armida Chavarria, Josie (Paul) Alderete, Molly (Marty) Polanco, Lourdes (David) Ogden; sons, Juan Jr. (Olivia), Fernando (Lydia) and Victor Chavarria, Johnny and Gilbert Pueblas; sister, Felicita Ruiz; sisters-in-law, Carmela Laborin, Alejandrina Trujillo; also survived by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Mr. Chavarria was an artistic brick mason. Visitation will be held on Friday, May 9, 1997 from 4:00 to 10:00 p.m. at CARRILLO’S TUCSON MORTUARY, (North Chapel), 204 S. Stone Ave., with Rosary recited at 7:00 p.m. Mass will be offered on Saturday, May 10, 1997 at 9:00 a.m. at St. Margaret’s Church. Interment to follow at Holy Hope Cemetery. Arrangements by CARRILLO’S TUCSON MORTUARY.

DILLON, Neva G., 86, of Tucson, died May 5, 1997. Survived by sons, Kenneth R. (Delores) Dillon of Olympia, WA, Frank (Linda) Dillon of Whittier, CA; daughter, Joan (William) Trujillo of Fullerton, CA; two sisters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Predeceased by her husband, Kenneth William Dillon on October 24, 1985. Service, Friday, 1:30 p.m., EVERGREEN MORTUARY, N. Oracle & W. Miracle Mile. Interment, Evergreen Cemetery.

DUTTON, Roy L., 67, loving husband and father, passed away May 6, 1997. Born March 24, 1930 in Northampton County, VA. Survived by wife of 40 years, Elisa; five daughters, Lynn (Bill) Tears of New York, Roygena (Steven) Weber of South Carolina, Valerie (Armando) Laguna of Tucson, Christie (Mike) Rabourn of Tucson, Helena Haynie of Atlanta, GA; eight grandsons and one granddaughter. Roy was a Petty Officer 2nd Class. Roy moved to Arizona in 1951 and completed 23 years of dedicated service to his country. Two tours of active service with the Marines, Arizona Air National Guard and the Marine and Navy reserves. Roy also worked for U.S. Customs and retired from McDonnell Douglas. Roy was a wonderful husband, father and friend. A visitation will be held, Thursday, May 8, 1997 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at SOUTH LAWN MORTUARY, 5401 S. Park Ave. Funeral Service will be held, 11:00 a.m., Friday at SOUTH LAWN MORTUARY CHAPEL.

GENDRON, Harold E., 76, died May 6, 1997. Husband of Margaret; father of Gary Gendron of Phoenix; grandfather of Erin, Michelle Gendron and Colleen Nicole Gendron. He was a member of Marion McDaniel Lodge #56 F&AM Sabaar Temple, ROJ Court #169, Order of Daedalians Inc, Kachino Klub, Air Force Assoc., an Ex-POW, Stalag Luft III former POW, 455th Bomb Grp Assoc., 19th Bomb Group, DMAFB Officer’s Club and life member of SAHBA. Memorial Service 10:00 a.m. Friday, May 9, 1997 at DMAFB Chapel #1 with Chaplain Underwood officiating. Contributions to the American Heart Assoc., 5325 E. Pima, Tucson, AZ 85712 or the American Cancer Society, 1636 N. Swan Rd., 85712 would be appreciated. Arrangements by BRING’S BROADWAY CHAPEL, 6910 E. Broadway.

HOGAN, Stephanie Ann Stubbs, 45, of The Woodlands, TX, died May 5, 1997. Survivors include: husband, Dr. Michael Hogan and daughter, Tess, The Woodlands, TX; parents, Mary Ann and Robert Stubbs, Tucson, AZ; sister, Michelle Stubbs Neubeck, Tucson, AZ; niece, Rachel Neubeck and nephew, Robert Neubeck, Tucson, AZ. Stephanie attended the University of California, San Diego, then attended Graduate School at the University of Arizona. She received her Masters Degree in Landscape Architecture from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Funeral Services will be at St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, 602 N. Wilmot Rd., Saturday, May 10, 1997 at 8:30 a.m., with Father John Smith officiating.Burial will be private. Memorial donations may be made to the Scholarship Endowment Fund, c/o St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, 602 N. Wilmot Rd., Tucson 85711, in the name of Stephanie Ann Stubbs Hogan. Arrangements by ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Dodge Chapel, 1050 N. Dodge Blvd. (at Speedway).

KRMPOTICH, John L., 70, died May 6, 1997. Husband of Bridget Krmpotich; brother of Michael (Marlene) Krmpotich of Tempe and Martha (Tom) Salven of CA; uncle of Mark (Vera), Michael Jr., Deane, George II, Robert and Andrew Krmpotich; nephew of Ankica Uralic and Lujia Grdan, both ofCroatia. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mike and Mary Krmpotich and his brother Dr. George Krmpotich. John worked up until his death with the Pima County Waste & Water Management. Mass will be offered 10:00 a.m. Saturday, May 10 at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, 1375 S. Camino Seco, with Father Robert Tamminga and Father Floyd Strongberg officiating. Entombment to follow at Holy Hope Cemetery. Rosary will be recited 7:00 p.m. Friday, May 9 at the church, and friends may call from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, May 9 at the church. Contributions to the Tucson Residence Foundation, 5049 E. Broadway, #124, Tucson, AZ 85711 would be appreciated.Arrangements by BRING’S BROADWAY CHAPEL, 6910 E. Broadway.

KUSIAN, Walter A., passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 4, 1997. An Arizona native, born in Miami, AZ, on June 13, 1917, he was the ’35 Tucson High quarterback, and a U of A graduate who remained an avid fan all his life, missing only two home football games since WWII. During WWII he served in the Air Force as navigator in the first B-29 missions over Japan, was shot down over China, and returned to Tucson to join his father at Time Market. In 1959 he purchased Cox Produce, and merged in 1986 with Tooley & Sons Produce to form Tucson Fruit and Produce. Walt loved the action and challenge of the produce business and rarely missed even one day. Preceded in death by his beloved wife Lou and son John, he is survived by his sons, Richard (Deanna), Thomas (Peggy), Patrick; his granddaughters Morgan, Carolyn, Julia, Shelly; by his sister, Lenor Harrell (Sheldon); brother, Peter Kusian; by loving nieces and nephews. We will all miss his wit, strength and gentle nature. Services will be private. Friends are invited to celebrate his memory on Thursday, May 8 at the Plaza Hotel from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please make donation to the United Way.

LEE, John L., 65, of Tucson, died May 5, 1997. He is survived by his children, Kristine Lee, Larry Lee and Jeffrey Lee; granddaughter, Samantha Perman; sister, Rose McAdams and nephew, Richard Gilbert. Mr. Lee was preceded in death by his mother, Pearl W. Massey; wife, Faye A. Lee and son, Jimmy A. Lee. Being a dedicated 25 year veteran of the U.S. Army, he served in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He was also a drug and alcohol abuse counselor at the Heritage House in Albany, TX. Friends may call from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 8, 1997 at HEATHER MORTUARY, 1040 N. Columbus. Graveside Services will be on Friday at 10:00 a.m., Our Lady of the Desert Cemetery. He will be buried with full military honors. Arrangements by HEATHER MORTUARY.

MYER, Katherine L., 79, died May 5, 1997. Survived by her husband, Durwood ”Rocky” Myer; children, James ”Mac”, Penny and Peter Philip; grandchildren, Rena Lopez, Dawna and James Philip; brother, William Moncur and sister, Evenlyn Main. Preceded in death by sister, Louisa Henderson. Memorial Services will be held, 5:30 p.m., May 9, 1997 at St. Philip’s in the Hills Episcopal Church, N. Campbell and River Rd. Arrangements by EAST LAWN PALMS MORTUARY, 5801 E. Grant Rd.

NEWCOMER, Ruth C., was born in Cleveland, Ohio on October 28, 1915. Ruth devoted her life to ecological issues and lived and worked in Madera Canyon for over 10 years. Ruth was an active member of the Sierra Club, National Audubon Society, The Nature Conservancy, Friends of Madera Canyon and the National Parks and Conservation Association. Her life was filled with love for nature and especially birds. Ruth is survived by a sister, nieces, nephews and her life long friend, Pauline Konfal of Green Valley. Arrangements by Green Valley Mortuary.

NUNEZ, Concepcion M., 85, of Tucson, passed away May 6, 1997. Survived by daughters, Adela (Tony) Rivera, Angie (Luis) Bustamante, Irma Bickerton, Mary Ellen (Sam) Saylor; sons, Carlos (Enedina), Eduardo (Armida), George (Sandra), Ramon (Kathy) Nunez. Also survived by numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.Visitation will be held on Friday, May 9, 1997 from 4:00 to 10:00 p.m. at CARRILLO’S TUCSON MORTUARY, (South Chapel), 240 S. Stone Ave., with Rosary recited, 7:00 p.m. Mass will be offered on Saturday, May 10, 1997 at 12:00 noon, St. John’s Church, 602 W. Ajo Way. Interment to follow at Holy Hope Cemetery. Arrangements by CARRILLO’S TUCSON MORTUARY.

OCHOA, Josephine J., 72 of Tucson, passed away May 3, 1997. Survived by husband, Armando J. Ochoa; sisters, Rosario J. Ruiz and Cruz J. Castro; brothers, Francisco M. Jaimes, Dionicio M. Jaimes, Florencio Junior M. Jaimes; nieces, Perla Rojas, Daina Rojas, Caroline Flores; nephews, Ismeal Ruiz, Jose Luis Castro, Rene Castro, Carlos Castro, Noel Castro, David Castro, Tone Majalca Castro. Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 8, 1997 from 4:00 to 10:00 p.m. at CARRILLO’S TUCSON MORTUARY, (South Chapel), 240 S. Stone Ave., with Rosary at 7:00 p.m. Mass will be offered on Friday, May 9, 1997 at 9:00 a.m. at Santa Cruz Church, 1220 S. 6th Ave. Interment to follow at Holy Hope Cemetery. Arrangements by CARRILLO’S TUCSON MORTUARY.

PYLES, Shirley A., 64, died May 6, 1997. Wife of Billy J. Pyles; mother of Deborah Buschschulte of AZ, Michael W. Pyles of Tucson and Jacquelyn Lavery of AZ; four grandchildren also survive. Cryptside Service 1:00 p.m. Friday, May 9 at TMP, East Lawn, with Rev. Jim Howard officiating. Arrangements by BRING’S BROADWAY CHAPEL, 6910 E. Broadway.

TASLER, Derald Joseph ”Bud”, 67, of Tucson, AZ, died May 7, 1997. He is survived by wife, Amelia; and brothers, Dale of Churdan, IA and Darvin of Fort Dodge, IA. Bud was a member of Power of the Past and Cursillo. Friends may call at ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Avalon Chapel, 8090 N. Northern Ave. (at Magee), from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Friday, May 9, 1997, with a Rosary at 7:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 10, 1997. Burial will follow at Holy Hope Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Casa De Los Ninos, 1101 N. 4th Ave., Tucson, AZ 85705.

ZENDEJAS, Rene Alberto, 4, died April 27, 1997. Arrangements by BRING’S BROADWAY CHAPEL, 6910 E. Broadway.