Earl J. Black
EARL J BLACK born Sept 30, 1931, passed peacefully at home June 4, 2023. He was born the eldest of 5 children in Limington Maine where he grew up and graduated High School. He married Rita Gerrish July 3, 1952, and was married for 66 years prior to Rita passing June 6, 2018. He went into the Army at the age of 20 and fought in the Korean War 1952-1954. He was honorably discharged after injury. He received a purple heart for his bravery. Upon returning home, he met his first born, Deborah for the first time at the age of 18 months. Earl & Rita had 4 more children, Vicki, Larry, Regina and Mark. Earl and Rita moved e Apache Jct, AZ in 1979 where they made it their new home. He worked for the City of Apache Junction as the Animal Control Officer and soon the Paws and Claws building was built. Earl and his wife ran Paws and Claws for 14 years before retiring. They traveled the US and Earl just couldn’t sit still and returned to work for the City of Apache Junction Parks and Rec Department. After 9 years he retired again from the City at the age of 79. He was always available with a good story and made everyone laugh. He made many friends throughout his life. He was loved by all who knew him.
He was predeceased by his parents, Alton and Dorothy (Mowatt) Black, his wife of 66 years Rita(Gerrish)Black, his sisters Shirley Dertinger and Ellen Brulotte, his brothers Alton Black Jr and Robert (Bobby) Black, his awesome son in law Stephen Charron and a great grandson Levi Black.
He is survived by his children, Debbie Charron of Maine, Vicki Black of AZ, Larry Black (wife Tammy) of North Carolina, Regina Gibson of AZ and Mark Black (wife Kathy) of Maine.
He has 17 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild on the way, and 2 great great grandchildren. Several nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date with Military Services provided through VFW Post 7968 in Apache Jct.
Date will be announced.
Cards and condolences can be sent to 2351 S Descanso Rd, Apache Jct., AZ 85119.
