Emiliano Jollé

Emiliano Jollé of Laveen, Arizona passed away peacefully, at home with loved ones at his bedside on Wednesday, November 16, 2022. He celebrated his 88th birthday this year on August 8th. Born in Decatur, Illinois under the birthname of Charles Wayne Colburn.

He was raised in Roby, Illinois with his mother and grandparents in a small rural community. He traveled to Tucson, Arizona in his mid-teens where he attended Tucson High School. He married his first wife, Patricia and started a family of 3 children. After joining the Marine Corps in 1956, he then went on to serve his country during the Korean War. During the 1960's, he became a free-spirit traveling through the Southwest exploring the areas of Texas, Mexico and California. Developing his artistic and carpentry skills during this era prompted him to create his new identity. Soon after while visiting Arizona he met his current wife, Linda. They married 2 months later and built their family with 2 more children; thriving in the ever-growing city of Phoenix, Arizona.

Emiliano's primary occupation was a Master Carpenter for the state of Arizona, but his passion was being an artist of many mediums. Native American culture, history and art was a favorite of his. He excelled in woodworking of both large and small scale creations. Emiliano built his own woodshop in the backyard of his home to design and create a multitude of artworks including: wooden staffs and canes, wooden toy automobiles, bread boxes, chairs and tables to name a few. When relaxing you could find him drawing, studying history, listening to music or reading one of his many books. He prided himself on his library that he had compiled over the years and was also a member of the local S.A.L.T. (Study of Ancient Lifeways and Technologies) community and programs.

He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Linda Jollé; children T.C. Colburn (Laurie), Mara Gariepy, Tracy Williams (Erik), and Velaine Jollé (Derrick); grandchildren Jesse Colburn (Julie), Clayton Colburn, Sofia Guerrero (Laura), William Guerrero II (Tony), and Mara Balfe; as well as 10 beautiful great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence & Winifred; his brother, Jerry; his sisters Norma Jean, Shirley and Linda; and his son, Matthew.

He adored interacting with children and animals. A favorite quote of his was "Let Gratitude Flow Naturally", a motto he lived by and practiced daily. Emiliano was an all around kind, generous soul and will be missed dearly by his family and friends.