Henry Lee Giclas

Flagstaff native Henry Giclas, 96, died Monday, April 2, 2007, at Flagstaff Medical Center.

Mr. Giclas was born in Flagstaff on Dec. 9, 1910, and except for brief periods, spent most of his life here. He graduated from Flagstaff High School, received an undergraduate degree at the University of Arizona and did graduate work at the University of California, Berkeley.

Mr. Giclas had a passion for astronomy and joined the staff of Lowell Observatory in 1931, where he met his wife, Bernice. He did important work at Lowell, retiring in 1979. The observatory allowed him to keep his office until 2006, where he supplied the threads of history to the institution. At the dedication of the Giclas Lecture Hall, he said he loved his work and it was his pleasure to go to work every day.

He worked tirelessly for the good of the city, being recognized as Citizen of the Year in 1977.

City officials dedicated Dec. 9, 2000, as Henry Giclas day. His primary civic interests included the Raymond Foundation, Arizona Historical Society, Westerners, City Water Commission, Flagstaff Medical Center and the Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra. He received an honorary doctorate from Northern Arizona University in 1978, marking his accomplishments in astronomy. Up until his death, he enjoyed the coffee group and the lunch bunch at the Weatherford Hotel and many of the activities and friends at the Elks Club.

Mr. Giclas is survived by his son Henry Jr. (Patsy); two grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Bernice Kent Giclas.

Memorial services will be Friday, at 3 p.m at the Church of the Epiphany. Visitation will be Thursday, 6 to 8 p.m., at Norvel Owens Mortuary. Following the services, interment will be at Citizens Cemetery.

Arrangements are by Norvel Owens Mortuary.