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Tom Stapley Memoriam

Tom Stapley, a longtime developer, church and civic leader whose son became an embattled figure, died at age 84.

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Published by The Arizona Republic from Mar. 23 to Apr. 23, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Tom Stapley

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Chris (Ries) Whipple

April 9, 2010

On behalf of my parents, Carl and Chris Ries, I would like to express our love and prayers at this time. Tom and Elaine were often mentioned with so much love from mom and dad...Mom is failing in her health as well as dad and was so saddened to learn of your father's passing. We all wish you to know of all the wonderful memories they have with your parents! I must add my love as well. They were so kind with visits to mom and dad up until the end for that we will always remember.

Rob Call

March 28, 2010

Tom was an incredible person. I visited the Stapley's at their home in VVL on several occasions. My family christmas caroled them each year. The past few months, Tom and I were working on a few Real Estate ideas. I am going to miss Tom. He is a great visionary person and has an exceptional ability to see oppertunity. I will miss him.

Loren Baker

March 27, 2010

Our Hearts and Prayers go out to the Stapley Family at this time of loss. We share many fond memories of friendship and cherished neighbors across the street. May the spirit comfort you all.
Shirley Baker, Amy Baker Smith, Loren Baker

Marsha Mabry-Abel

March 27, 2010

Tom was a wonderful person and a great mentor. He touched my life and many in my family in a special and memorable way. Tom will be missed but has left his positive and lasting influence on family, friends and community. My deepest sympathy and love to all the Stapley family.

Jim & Kathy Adair

March 26, 2010

We have fond memories of your dad. He was such a sweet, wonderful man and fun to be around. He was a great example and counselor to Jim those many years ago-- "the older, wiser brother in the Stake Presidency." And I loved your mom, too; she gave me great advice on having 4 sons. They were both extraordinary people.

Jeff Welker

March 26, 2010

Tom's legacy of service to his family, church, and community is above reproach. He is among a cadre of individuals that have worked quietly and diligently over the past 50 decades to shape the east valley into the family-oriented region it is today. Tom's sealing of my eldest son and daughter-in-law is a point of pride for our entire family. Cindy and I extend our love and prayers to Robert, Don, Gary, Phil and Suzie.

March 24, 2010

I meant Julie Grunell

Kathy Huff

March 24, 2010

My relationship with Tom began while he was taking care of Elaine. I will miss my visits with "Mr. Stapley, sir" but know they are together again and he is at peace.

Rande Grover

March 24, 2010

When I think of Tom I can't help but remember what a great first mate he was on my father-in-law Doug Dana's sailboat in San Diego. The two of them are probably sailing together in the hereafter and having a great time together. Uncle Tom was a great man and you can see that in the wonderful family he leaves behind. The Stapley's
have been wonderful to the Grover's for over 40 years and we are proud to call you cousins. Pam and I send our love to you at this time.

Steve Ikeda

March 24, 2010

I would like to express my condolences also. He and his family has brought a lot to this community and he will be missed by many.

Jeff Cooper

March 24, 2010

I was one of the hundreds of missionaries that servced under "Pres" in the Washington Seattle Mission 1974-1976. Those two years were extraoridnary and the memories of that time with your Mom and Dad will be cherished forever. My father also was privledged to serve side by side with Tom as a Sealer in the Mesa Temple. I will forever remember the last visit my wife and I made to reminise with Tom and Elaine in their Gilbert home by the lake before Elaine became so ill. I am also very grateful for the time and effort put forth to publish and distribute Tom's journal of his Mission President experiences. My love and prayers are with you all. Great rewards await Tom and his beautiful wife for a lifetime of service to so many.

Jen & Eliott Reynolds

March 24, 2010

We too, were one of the 1300+ couples sealed by Tom. What an amazing individual. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family, but what great assurances you have to see him again.

Ginger Wright Allen

March 24, 2010

I was saddened to hear of the loss of your dad. Your mom and dad were good friends of my parents, and I have great memories of them over the years. I just lost my mom last month, and even though we know they are happy to be reunited with their loved ones who have gone before them, it is hard to see them go. Please accept my condolences. Don, I would also like to add that I feel sad for the difficulties you are facing, and hope things have a positve outcome for you. I truly loved your mom and dad. They always treated me with so much love and kindness.

Lee Wearly

March 24, 2010

A very fine gentleman. My condolences to the family.

Sharon Irvine

March 24, 2010

Tom Stapley, my cousin, was a great example to me of living a Christ like life. It was always fun to be in his presence as he was interesting, friendly and entertainig and reflected the sweet nature of his mother, my beloved Aunt Zola. I am ever grateful to him for his thoughtful words of council as he sealed in marriage my son and daughter-in-law.

Bernald Porter

March 24, 2010

Tom's passing is a loss to his family, to his friends, and to the State of Arizona. He was a man of vision, of resolve and of character. His example will be remembered and emulated by those who knew him best.

May the many memories he helped create find root in your hearts and bring warm recollection to your minds as you both mourn and celebrate his life.

Cyndi (Bennett) Hughes

March 24, 2010

As both Tom and Elaine were close lifelong friends of my parents, I will always remember them both with a smile. When I spoke with Tom recently, I was amazed how he consistently engaged in civic discussions about a variety of current events. He was truly a caring citizen on a global level and a devoted friend on a personal level. Job well done, good and faithful servant. You inspire me.

Larry Carr

March 24, 2010

Tom was my friend. He always extended his hand and his heart in a way that was helpful. I have some great memories and appreciation for the long shadow he cast for the rest of us. The Stapley's - all - have made this life's journey - better.

Brent & Geneva Horne

March 24, 2010

Our love and support is with all the family. Our lifetime has been filled with relationships with Tom and his family from church service, business, and good friendships. He successfully completed this estate and will be missed.

Jeff Rogers

March 24, 2010

I knew Tom as a straight shooter businessman and dedicated church leader.
Last saw him being escorted to his good friend (and fellow Rotarian) Al Mabry's funeral a couple weeks ago by his sons Robert and Don.
Quality man that produced equal quality offspring.
Jeff Rogers Family

March 24, 2010

If this is realtion to Julie Stapley Gunner I am truly sorry for your loss Julie..

one of your old nail clients
Kelly Stimson Hunt

March 24, 2010

Tom was our neighbor and good friend and we loved him very much. Our deep condolences to the family.

-Lauretta Porter and Carolyn Webb

Steve Petrie

March 24, 2010

Tom's life was a reflection of his love for and testimony of the Savior. His Christ-like attributes of kindness, gentleness, charity, service and integrity are a great inspiration to all who know him. Well done, Tom.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this tender time.

Bryant & Marsha Ridgway

March 23, 2010

One of the best men in the State has gone home. May peace be upon the family knowning their eternal family will be togeher.
Bryant Ridgway
Casa Grande, AZ

Hal Hong

March 23, 2010

My condolences to Tom's family. He touched my life as businessman and as a neighbor and will always be remembered.

Steve and Becky Irvine

March 23, 2010

My husband and I are one of those 1,300 couples married by Tom Stapley. We were grateful for his advice and example at our wedding 14 years ago. His was a life well lived. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family.

Tommy Stapley

March 23, 2010

We will always love and miss you Grandpa. You set a great example of service to your family, community, church and spouse. Thank you for all the great memories and the incredible life you lived.
Love,
Tommy

March 23, 2010

Condolences from the Laney's to the Stapley's. God Bless.

March 23, 2010

God bless and keep you

The Schofield Family

March 23, 2010

Tom's warmth, humor, and kindness will always be remembered.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Stapley family.

Tamara Nixon

March 23, 2010

He was one of my parents most cherished friends. A wonderful man!!!

Peggy Szoke

March 23, 2010

My heart is sad for the loss of a good person. Having the opportunity to work with Tom & Don Stapley I found them to be honest hard working good people. Your reward will be great with our Lord. Rest in peace Tom.

Mj Saldate

March 23, 2010

Nobody can explain the size of a loss. But that shows the greatness of the individual that was lost. I pray for your family and hope FAMILY grows close and never stops the love. I Hope love continues to the growth of the family. God bless you all

Peggy Allen

March 23, 2010

My condolences to the Stapley family and especially Don, Kathy, Tommy, Jill and Zach. Don, I know your father is very proud of you and the way you've handled your latest troubles with dignity and grace. Your Dad is with his heavenly Father and your Mom. May God give and your family strength, courage and love during these sad times.

John Wentling

March 23, 2010

My deepest condolences Tom.

RICHARD MEDRANO

March 23, 2010

OUR HEAVENLY FATHER GAVE HIM A GREAT LIFE AND HE SHARED THAT LIFE WITH HIS FAMILY. NOW HE IS CALLED HOME TO BE WITH THE LORD. GOD BLESS AND COMFORT ALL OF YOU IN THIS TIME OF GRIEF

David Jarvis

March 23, 2010

Hello Stapley Family, I can speak for all of the Jarvis Family when I say how much we loved Tom Stapley. He was a wonderful scout leader, local neighborhood father figure, church leader and all round good man. We will miss him for a while. We love you. Dave Jarvis and Family

March 23, 2010

He was a great man and will be remembered as such.

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