Archie LaVern Stalnaker, Jr.

Loving husband, father, and grandfather, Archie LaVern Stalnaker, Jr., died very peacefully September 1, 2016, at home in Vernon, Arizona, with his family at his side. He was 79 years old. Archie was born on October 13, 1936 in San Diego, California, where he eventually met and married Judy, his wife of 53 years.   He was a veteran of the U.S. Army who was proud to have served his county. Business took Archie to El Centro, California in 1968 where he was part-owner of Gordon’s Carpet, a retail carpet and interior design store.   He was a Life-Member of the El Centro Elks Lodge #1325 of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. Archie served in many capacities during his 48 year membership. Archie was also a member of Grace Lutheran Church in El Centro where he served as a trustee for many years.   A sports enthusiast, Archie enjoyed all sports: played football in school, an avid golfer with three holes-in-one to his credit, an expert pool player who could easily run the table, and loved to play cards. He was an expert craftsman who built many things out of wood.   Traveling was an important part of his life. RVing and cruise ships took Archie and Judy to all parts of the World. In 2005, Archie and Judy started coming to the Show Low-Vernon areas where they eventually became residents.   He was a great guy with a quick wit and fantastic sense of humor who will be truly missed by everyone.   Archie was preceded in death by his father, Archie, Sr., his mother, Mildred, a sister, Phyllis, and a brother, Gordon.   He is survived by his wife, Judy, two daughters, Keri Leigh and Dena Lyn, four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.   Archie would have liked that any donations be made in his name to the Elks National Foundation.