Raymond Douglas Zirkle

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Raymond Douglas Zirkle, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many, who left us on August 28th, 2024, at the age of 78. Born on September 14, 1945 in Stillwater, Oklahoma, and spending much of his early life in Kokomo, Indiana, Doug found his true home in Tucson, Arizona, where he lived a life full of love, wisdom, and kindness.

Doug was a silent angel among us, a man of few words, but when he spoke, his words carried the weight of wisdom and the warmth of caring. He had an innate ability to touch the hearts of those around him with his gentle humor, his sweet and kind nature, and his unwavering care for his friends and family. He was an all-around good man through and through with his presence bringing light into the lives of all who knew him.

He was a devoted husband for 26 years to his loving wife, Sally Garza Fernandez. Together they raised a daughter, Marti Goyal. Marti, along with her husband, brought him the joy of three grandsons, Ethan, Gavin, and Mason. He was also the proud father of Brandon Zirkle, who, with his wife Brandy, blessed him with two amazing grandchildren, Taylor and Carter Zirkle, whom he adored. His other son, Jordan Zirkle, held a special place in his heart.

He had a deep love and admiration for his parents, Raymond and Nila Zirkle, who have both passed away, as well as for his dear brother, Kent Zirkle, who has also passed. Doug’s brother, Brad Zirkle, survives him and continues to carry on the family legacy.

Doug was a proud alumnus of the Indiana University and Sigma Nu fraternity, where his love for sports continued after his high school football days at Kokomo High School. His passion for sports was a lifelong pursuit; he especially enjoyed watching college basketball and football and cherished attending University of Arizona football games. Doug also took great joy in watching his grandchildren play sports.

Doug had a distinguished career as a lawyer and pro-tem judge in Arizona, where he not only served his community but also formed many long-lasting friendships that he cherished throughout his life.

He loved walking in Sabino Canyon with Sally and his dear friends. Doug also had a special fondness for dining at El Charro. Doug cherished visiting his family and enjoyed multiple annual trips to Puerto Vallarta with his wife Sally, their home away from home as well as visiting loved ones in San Diego and Reno. His love for going on walks with Sally was a simple pleasure that brought him great joy.

In addition to his immediate family, Doug was deeply loved by his extended family, including the Zirkle family Dorthy, Dotsy, Julia, Andrew, and Peter, their loving spouses and their children, who all held him in high regard.

Doug will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, kindness, and wisdom will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends.