In Memoriam

Captain Robert B. Wolf USN

Captain Wolfe and his wife, Diane (pictured here with him), were valued members of the CROFT community, each contributing in their own way to he group’s activities and traditions.

Robert was one of those dependable individuals whose contributions often took place behind the scenes. Although he was not regularly involved in public demonstrations, he willingly helped with setting up and supporting CROFT’s activities. He also participated in special gatherings, including Twelfth Night Celebrations.

His wife, Diane, was an active member and a talented tapestry artist whose beautiful work reflected the traditional skills CROFT seeks to preserve and share.

Together, Robert and Diane contributed to the fellowship and spirit of CROFT. Robert is remembered with appreciation for his quiet dedication, his willingness to help, and the important role he played in supporting the group and its members.

Guy Dee Overson

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. Rev. 21:4

Guy and his wife, Becky, were among CROFT’s early members, bringing their enthusiasm and experience from the organization that receded it.

A skilled roofer and talented craftsman, Guy played an important role in the development of CROFT’s permanent home at the Arizona Renaissance Festival. When the building needed a roof, Guy contributed his professional knowledge and, together with his roofing crew, installed the slate roof that remains one of the building’s distinctive features still.

Beyond his work on the building, Guy was an active demonstrator who enjoyed woodworking and sharing his skills with others. Remembered as a versatile and helpful member, he willingly contributed his time and talents wherever they were needed.

Although Guy’s life was cut tragically short, his contributions remain part of CROFT’s history. The roof he helped create stands as a lasting reminder of his craftsmanship, generosity, and dedication to the group.

Larry

Larry was a valued member of the CROFT community and the longtime companion of Susan Clark. Although he was not often involved in public demonstrations, he contributed in quieter ways, helping behind the scenes whenever he could. He is remembered as an enjoyable person to be around and a welcome part of the group to many who knew him.

He was one of the crewmen who raised the CROFT home at the Arizona Renaissance Festival. Larry, we thank you for all your efforts and are blessed by the shade the building provides during those hot festival days.

Rose Gibboney

Rose was a longtime and much-loved member of CROFT, bringing with her years of experience and friendship from the organization that preceded it.

Rose began making lace in the early 1970’s, developing a skill that would become one of her defining passions. An extraordinarily talented lacemaker, she delighted in sharing her knowledge and skills with others. She had a special gift for taking younger members under her wing, offering encouragement and helping them develop an appreciation for traditional crafts.

Rose was also known for the beautiful handmade lace keepsakes she created and gave to fellow members, small treasures that reflected both her remarkable craftsmanship and her generous spirit.

Rose is remembered with great affection, not only for the exquisite lace she created, but for the kindness, friendship, and encouragement she so freely shared. Her legacy live on in the skills she passed along and the treasured memories she left behind.

Susan Clark

Susan was one of CROFT’s founding members, a talented fiber artist, and a woman whose strong personality and dedication helped shape the organization.

Her knowledge of traditional crafts was extensive, encompassing weaving, knitting, dyeing, basket weaving, and many other fiber arts. She was an enthusiastic teacher who generously shared her expertise through classes and personal instruction. Along with her friend Terri, Susan also purchased a fiber arts business, further reflecting her passion for preserving and teaching these traditional skills.

She is remembered as a woman who spoke her mind, had an opinion on nearly everything, and was never afraid to tell things as she saw them. Despite her considerable influence, Susan disliked having her picture taken, making the few candid pictures of her particularly treasured.

CROFT member 2004 - 2020: Susan was an outstanding figure in the fiber arts community in the Valley. She was a leading member of CROFT for over 16 years. Always ready to help, guide, and encourage members, new or established. Susan did not seek the limelight; but was a major force in the direction, development, and scope of CROFT. In particular, she was for many years the coordinator for CROFT participation in the Arizona Renaissance Festival. Her personality, knowledge, and energy are sorely missed by her CROFT friends.

Luther Belk

Luther was a talented and enthusiastic young member of CROFT, remembered for his willingness to help, his friendly nature, and his many creative interests. He enjoyed working with leather and wood, sharing his skills and lending a hand wherever he was needed.

His love of historical recreation eventually led him to join several fellow members in a Scottish dancing group. The group performed for several years before branching into pirate-themed entertainment.

Although Luther’s interests eventually took him beyond CROFT, his friendships with the group remained strong. He continued to visit regularly during the Arizona Renaissance Festival, sometimes stopping by to dance, entertain, or simply spend time with old friends.

He is remembered as a talented, fun loving young man whose life ended far too soon. His enthusiasm, kindness, and joyful presence left lasting memories among those who knew him.

The world lost the most amazing person today. Rest easy Luther. We were all better for having known you, and the world is a litter darker without you in it.

Christine Stevenson

Mary Ellen Solano

Mary joined CROFT through her sister, Rose Gibboney, and shared her love of traditional lacemaking. Together, the sisters contributed their skills and enthusiasm to the organization, helping preserve and share the art of handmade lace.

While Rose was known for her outgoing personality, Mary had a quieter presence within the group. She was a dedicated member who continued participating in CROFT’s activities even after Rose was no longer able to attend.

Mary is remembered for her love of lacemaking, her steady involvement, and the quiet dedication she brought to the CROFT community. Her contributions were part of the fellowship and shared traditions that have shaped the organization over the years.