Stan Bootz died in his home on February 6, 2009 at 79 years of age. He was a husband, father, mentor and friend. Donna, his wife of 57 years, his children, and his many grandchildren were with him during his final days in life.
Born in Wisconsin, Stan was 1 of 13 children. He spent his formative years in Evanston, IL. where he grew an appreciation for hard work and fast cars. Stan met Donna Marie at the age of 17 and they became inseparable. The two were married several years later in 1951. Stan and Donna moved to Phoenix in 1954 after he completed his service in the USAF. As founder and owner of Bootz Mfg., Walk-in Cooler and Freezers, Stan was known to many business owners throughout Arizona.
Stan was blessed by his children: Kathy McMorris Jim; Kristy Gullen John; Colleen Drury Bill; Judi Wools; Stan Corky Julie; Kevin, Tim Bonnie; Bob Christine and Jeff Kaytie. Each of his 25 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren were lovingly embraced by Stan. His family made his heart beat. His love for celebrating life was fulfilled by family barbeques, eating, drinking and rocking new grandbabies to sleep while singing “You Are My Sunshine”. Memorial weekend and the INDY 500 races were always his birthday celebration.
An extraordinary time was experienced by family and friends while building a 4, 500 sq ft red brick cabin in Forest Lakes, AZ, under Stan’s expertise and guidance. Several years later, he designed and built his dream home on a golf course in Overguaard, AZ. More recently, a beach home with an ocean view served as Donna and Stan’s getaway. Stan could build anything without so much as a blueprint and was believed by his family to be the strongest man in the world.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2009, from 9:30 – 10: 30 A.M., at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 2312 E. Campbell Ave., Phoenix. Funeral Mass to follow at 10:30 A.M. Interment at St. Francis Cemetery.
Stan loved everyone in his life and wanted to leave this world a better place and a better man. He is greatly missed and loved deeply by many.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, 711 E. Northern Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85020.
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