Ardath M. Sims, 90, of Mesa, AZ passed away on December 2, 2013. He was born November 14, 1923 in Wilmar, CA to Ammon and Luella [Zundie] Sims. Ardath spent his entire career in the United States Air Force, retiring after 31 years of service at the rank of Colonel. He was a fighter pilot during WWII flying in 48 missions over the European Corridor; was also one of the originators of the 161st Air Refueling Group in Arizona before being stationed at the Pentagon. Ardath was very mechanical and had many hobbies throughout his life such as being a silversmith and making jewelry; he also enjoyed gold panning, geology as well as being an avid golfer, but what brought him the most joy was his family. Ardath was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife Ermal Sims, who had passed away in 2002; three brothers, one sister and one grandchild and is survived by his wife Ruth A. Sims; children Thomas (Kalene) Sims, Ardath Kay (Larry) Mason, Timothy Sims, Karen (Thomas) Woodhouse and Beverely (Billy) Snyder as well as 14 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. A visitation will be from 6:00 – 8:00 pm, Thursday, December 5, 2013 at Mariposa Gardens 6747 E. Broadway Rd in Mesa
