Beverly Mintha Kamps

Beverly Mintha Kamps (née Itule), beloved sister, aunt, and friend, passed away on April 8, 2026, at the age of 76.

The daughter of Willie and Dorothy Itule, Bev was born in Phoenix, Arizona, on January 18, 1950. She was the oldest of four siblings, whom she loved dearly. Treasured for her sharp wit, humor, and bright laugh, Bev loved being around her family and friends. She graduated from Camelback High School in 1968 and went on to become an accomplished career woman. Specializing in risk management and insurance, she worked for many years at Caesars World Entertainment, followed by Grossman Properties. Bev loved to travel, and, while working for Caesars, she was fortunate enough to see the world with her mother, Dorothy, and enjoyed recounting their incredible journeys and the beauty of Europe.

Bev and her younger sister Paula had an enviable bond. They loved to shop and spend time together, always sharing a fondness for antiques and home decor. Bev’s closeness with Paula extended to her brother-in-law, Steve, who cared for Bev as though she were his own sister. The three were very close, living just a couple of doors away from each other until about ten years ago, when Bev fulfilled her dream of moving to the historic Willo district in downtown Phoenix. She cherished living in a charming bungalow in a lovely neighborhood.

Bev loved animals and had a family of both cats and dogs throughout her life – all of which she adored as only a cat-and-dog mom could. Her cat, Timothy, was a constant companion and comforting presence during the past few years. All of Bev’s pets had big personalities, and she loved to tell stories about their antics and sweetness. Each one brought her real happiness and had a special place in her heart. We know lots of tail wagging and purring greeted her upon arriving in heaven.

Bev’s faith came into focus during the last several years of her life. She found enormous joy and peace practicing her Catholic faith and treasured visits from Father Michael Passo after her mobility became very limited. Bev attended Mass at the Mater Misericordiæ Parish when she could and participated wholeheartedly. Her faith was a source of happiness and comfort through life’s ups and downs.

Though health issues kept Bev close to home in recent years, she stayed connected with her niece and nephews, their children, and pets, always gushing over cute baby or puppy photos and delighting in their adventures, travels, school achievements, and special moments. Bev is survived by her siblings, Paula Itule (Steve Nastasi), Paul Itule, and Willie Itule (Lynn); her niece, Jessie Palmer (Taylor, children Hobie and Bradley); and her nephews, Billy Itule (Robyn, children Lily and Liam) and Andy Itule (Tara).