Evelyn "Pug" Rae Esch

Pug was born in Bisbee, Arizona, on November 10, 1938 to Rayford and Ursula Whelan. She attended St. Patrick's Elementary School, Bisbee High School (1952-1957), University of Arizona (1956-1957), and St. Mary's School of Nursing (1958-1962). Pug met the love of her life, Lee, in Tucson and they were married in 1962 in El Paso, Texas, where Lee was stationed at Biggs Air Force Base. She worked in the operating room of an El Paso hospital while Lee was on active duty for three years. After his separation, they relocated to Phoenix. Pug worked at St. Joseph's Hospital for 30+ years. Lee and Pug were blessed with three sons, Ken, Doug and David. Family, friends and nursing were her great loves of life. Pug always had a smiling greeting for everyone she met. Pug was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Paul Douglas. She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Lee, and by sons, Kenneth (Bridget) (grandsons Conrad, Eric, Daniel and Kenton), Douglas (granddaughters Samantha and Savannah), and David. 

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, February 22, at 9:30 a.m. at the Brophy Chapel. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to the charity of your choice and do a good deed for a stranger today.