Elizabeth died peacefully at her home in Dewey, Arizona on Friday, May 1, 2009 at age 87.  She was born in California on April 10, 1922 but spent most of her life in Phoenix.  She moved there after marrying the love of her life, Arthur Van Haren Jr. during World War II.  They were together for over 50 years and had three children.

Elizabeth was a wife and homemaker as her true vocation but also spent over 20 years as the secretary to the Principal of Xavier College Preparatory in Phoenix where she is remembered lovingly by many generations of Xavier girls.

She is survived by her daughter Diane (Larry) Halvorson, sons Peter (Jolinda) and Daniel (Susan), seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.  Her brother, William Yates of Mystic, Connecticut preceded her in death this past February.  A memorial service in her honor was held at Saint Paul's Catholic Church, Phoenix.

The Arizona Republic, May 6, 2009