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It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Nancy Anne Conway, age 78. Anne passed away at her home in Mesa, Arizona, on January 14, 2026, surrounded by her husband and children.

Anne was born on April 17, 1947, in Elk City, Oklahoma, to Joseph and Gertrude Woods.

She attended Mesa High School, graduating with the Class of 1965, where she met the love of her life, Fred Conway. They were married on August 14, 1965, and shared 60 wonderful years together, building a beautiful family. Anne was more than a wife to Fred—she was his best friend, confidant, and biggest fan.

Anne devoted herself wholeheartedly to raising their four children as a stay-at-home mother, a role she embraced with unwavering love and dedication. She also helped raise seven grandchildren, who affectionately called her “Grannie Annie.” Her influence is deeply imprinted on her children and grandchildren and will carry on for generations.

Anne was known for her fun-loving, sweet, and generous spirit. She accepted everyone and made friends wherever she went, with a remarkable ability to brighten every room and every day. Though she stood just 4’11”, she had a heart the size of a giant’s.

She was a gifted seamstress, crafter, woodworker, music lover, and avid reader. With her quick wit and happy personality, Anne brought laughter and warmth to all who knew her. There are simply not enough words to describe a woman of her incredible character or the magnitude of this loss—words alone cannot do her justice.

Anne is survived by her soulmate and husband, Fred Conway; three children, Kaci (Steve) McCracken, Melissa (Bob) Schultz, and Ian (Sarah) Conway; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and her beloved kitty, King Gabriel. She is now reunited with her first-born daughter, Amy Conway Otto.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Anne’s birthday, April 17, 2026. Our wife, mother, and grandmother will be deeply missed. In her words… We love you more.

For additional information regarding the Celebration or to share a message with her husband and family, contact Fred Conway at k7fac2@gmail.com (480) 827-2575 or Melissa Schultz at missieschultz74@gmail.com.

Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.

Don Elwood Larsen, our beloved brother, uncle, cousin, and friend, passed away at age 64, early in the morning on January 5, 2026 at his home in Mesa, Arizona. He was born March 19, 1961 in Fairfield, California and raised by his loving parents, Dwayne and Barbara Larsen. 

From the time he was very young, Don had a unique love of the outdoors and nature. He loved camping, fishing, gardening, and spending time with others in these hobbies and pursuits. Following his 1979 graduation from Mountain View High School, he served for two years in the Philippines Manila Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. After his mission, he received a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from Arizona State University and later owned his own carpet cleaning and landscaping businesses. His practical knowledge and skills as a craftsman included expertise in tree trimming, home construction, and outdoor design, such as brickwork and paving. He frequently assisted others in building and beautifying their homes.

He was also an amazing cook who loved making jams and jellies from berries he picked in the mountains, and he always knew where to find the best wild mushrooms. His Thanksgiving turkeys were not to be missed, and he was always generous in sharing his culinary discoveries with loved ones and friends. 

He was both a hard worker and a kind loyal friend, dedicated to serving others even though he lived with chronic pain and other health issues for many years, and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his parents and his younger brother David, and is survived by his brother Dwight (Cindy), and his sisters, Dorothy, DeNae Griffin (Paul) and Debra Parker (Nicolas).

A memorial service will be held Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 6:00 PM, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Lazona building, located at 1345 E. University Drive, Mesa, AZ 85203.

Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.

Todd Warren Skinner, 66, our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend to so many passed away on January 14, 2026, in Chandler, Arizona, after completing his 17-month journey with Glioblastoma (brain cancer).  Born in Whittier, California on July 25, 1959, he graduated early from El Dorado High School in Placentia, California to attend college. Between 1978-1980, he served as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Frankfurt, Germany. He graduated from Brigham Young University, receiving his Bachelors of Science and Masters of Accountancy before receiving his CPA certificate. Not long after graduating from college, Todd married Kathleen Thompson, his wife of 41 years, on June 15, 1984, in the Logan Utah Temple. Todd and Kathleen moved to Tempe, Arizona in 1984 where they raised their three sons and have resided since.

Todd was the founding partner at Skinner Clouse Group, a specialized public accounting firm located in Tempe, Arizona. He practiced in the valley for more than 30 years working with clients in a variety of industries both locally and abroad.

Todd’s true passion was giving back to the local community and beyond. He served for 28 years, including 15 as the Board Treasurer, on the board of A New Leaf, a nonprofit providing a broad spectrum of support services to help individuals and families in crisis. “Todd was highly regarded and a champion for those less fortunate. He will be sorely missed,” said Michael Hughes, A New Leaf CEO. Todd was also a Co-Founder of Lucky Sevan Foundation which focuses on impacting and shaping youth by providing them with tools to effectively navigate through life’s challenges. Todd was also the largest contributor to the Perpetual Pragya Project organization, which helped over a dozen Ghanaian men achieve financial stability and independence. The list of Todd’s generous contributions, ranging from individuals to organizations, could go on and on.

Todd served faithfully his entire life as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in various callings, including Bishop of the Alameda Ward, Tempe Arizona Stake. He lived as he believed and bore testimony of the Savior, Jesus Christ through his daily acts of kindness and service.

Todd found great joy in traveling the world with family and friends, driving the interstates of the United States, trying and experiencing good food, reading and listening to books, playing word and board games, but most of all spending time with his immediate and extended family and friends.

Preceded in death by his parents, Colin Warren Skinner (1935-2025) and Shirley Mae Ryan Skinner (1934-2016).  Survived by his wife, Kathleen Thompson Skinner, his sons Douglas Skinner, Gregory (Débora) Skinner, Jonathan Skinner; grandchildren Rosalie and Serena (their mother Lindsay Sheffer Skinner), Mosiah and Anahi; siblings Tracy (John) Joost, Teresa (Del) Craig, Trent (Cristina) Skinner, Timothy Ryan (Amy) Skinner; and many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held Friday, January 23, 2026 at 11 a.m. at the LDS Church located at 1111 East Knox Rd, Tempe, with a visitation from 9:30-10:30 prior to the service.  There will be a visitation Thursday evening 6-8 p.m. at Bunker Family Funeral & Cremation located at 33 North Centennial Way, Mesa. Interment, Saturday, January 24, 2026 at Green Acres Mortuary & Cemetery located in Scottsdale.  Donations in lieu of flowers to  A New Leaf (turnanewleaf.org) or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Humanitarian Fund (ldsphilanthropies.org).

Funeral Service will be available via Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/97989639771

Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.

Robert Merle Goodman II, age 60, born on April 13, 1965, returned to his Heavenly Father on January 13, 2026. He is survived by his mother, Georgia Goodman, and sisters, Catherine Margaritis and Janice Connolly. He is also survived by 10 nieces and nephews and 10 great-nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his father, Robert Goodman; his sister, Denna Strebe; and his nephew, Damon Margaritis.

Robert graduated from Mesa High School in 1987. He later retired from Fry’s Food Stores after 29 years of dedicated service. He truly loved his job, his customers, and his colleagues; even before starting his career there, he always had a strong work ethic and a drive to succeed.

Family meant everything to Robert. He loved all his cousins, uncles, and aunts, and he especially cherished his many years of being “Uncle Bubba” to his nieces and nephews. He built wonderful memories with them that they will treasure forever.

A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Robert found great joy in his faith and especially loved attending the temple.

Robert made friends everywhere he went, leaving a positive impact on everyone he met. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him, and most especially by his family.

Service Information

Funeral Services: January 24, 11:00 a.m. Location: LDS Udall Building, 15 W. First Avenue, Mesa, AZ Viewing: 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Interment: Mesa City Cemetery (following the service)

Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.

Robin House 61, born in Ridgecrest, California, passed away on December 18, 2025. She was raised in California and later made Arizona her home for nearly four decades.

She was known for her kindness, compassion, and creativity. She loved reading and spent countless hours sewing, crocheting, and crafting. Making clothes, fabric pieces, jewelry, and purses that brought her great happiness and allowed her to share her talents with others.

She worked for 12 years at DHL and later dedicated 10 years to Mesa Public Schools before retiring. Her strong work ethic and caring nature were evident in everything she did.

She is survived by her husband Ken, her son Jon, and her three sisters Sherri, Cindy, and Rhonda.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.

Lance Richard Cummard was called home too soon on January 10, 2026, at his home in Mesa, Arizona. There to meet him were his father, David, and his grandparents, Blain and Geraldine Cummard, and Milo and Wanda LeBaron.

He enjoyed careers in insurance, pest control, and handyman services, but his true love was coaching basketball. He was mentored into coaching by legendary coach Shawn Lynch, whom Lance deeply loved and admired.

Born on May 13, 1981, Lance is survived by his mother, Cheryl; his daughter, Ellie (Trey Malcolm); and his five brothers: David (Syd), Jon (Summer), Stephen (Crystal), Parker (Kanoe), and Lee (Sarah), along with many others who love and miss their Uncle Lala.

Lance was a lifelong learner who served anyone and everyone. In lieu of donations or flowers, the family asks that you follow his example and perform a kind act of service for someone.

Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.

June Cecille Jones, age 75, passed away at her home in Chandler, Arizona on January 9, 2026. She was born on June 24, 1950, in Long Beach, California, to Howard Chester and Wilma Algerita Allison.

June attended Glendale (Arizona) High school, graduating in 1968. She then attended Glendale Community College, where she met the love of her life, Ronald Brian Jones. They married on August 21, 1969, and together they were blessed with three children.

June was an active and faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many callings. She had a genuine and enduring testimony of Jesus Christ and exemplified His teachings and love throughout her life. We are certain she is now enjoying a glorious reunion with her parents, grandparents, and many other precious loved ones.

June, affectionately known as “CeCe” to her grandchildren, was a most kind and loving mother and grandmother. She had a fun and special way of making each child and grandchild feel special and loved. Among her many talents was music, and throughout her life she tirelessly shared her gift of music in countless ways, particularly through singing, piano, guitar, and ukulele. We are forever grateful to her for bringing comfort, joy, inspiration, and love to so many.

June is survived by her beloved husband of 56 years, Ronald; her children, Brandon (Kristie) Jones, Allison Miles, and Tamara (Kris) Buchanan; her grandchildren, Bethany, Lindsay, Jeremy, Rebekah, Natalie, Garrett, Troy, Tiffany, Tyler, and Kenneth; her great grandchildren, Arlo, Linnea, and one on the way (Kade); and her siblings, Andrew (Kathleen) Allison, Diana Gale Allison, Stephen (Cindy) Allison, and Mary Lou Reece (Les) Ellis.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 8:30am (viewing) and 10:00am (service) at the LDS chapel on 2252 W. Mesquite St. in Chandler, Arizona. Interment will be at 12:00pm at the Mesa Cemetery.

Flower Shop Mesa | Florist in Mesa, AZ | CRISMON’S FLOWERS

Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.

Mary Lynn Beydler, born in 1949 in Riverdale, North Dakota to Lynn and Mary Arbogast, recently passed away in Gilbert, Arizona, surrounded by the love of those who cherished her. Her childhood took her to many places, and she lived in Potsdam, New York; Huron, Ohio; Hudson’s Hope, British Columbia; and finally Mesa, Arizona, where her family settled in January 1965, during her freshman year of high school.

Mary grew up in a lively, loving home with her parents, along with her brothers Bud and Dave, and her sisters June and Carla, each of whom helped shape her joyful and caring nature.

After graduating from Westwood High School in 1968, Mary began working for Mountain Bell in Phoenix as a long‑distance operator. She enjoyed the work and the friendships she made there before marrying and beginning her family.

In 1970, she married the love of her life, Royce Beydler Jr. They shared nearly 56 years of devoted marriage and built a beautiful life together. Mesa remained their home, where Mary lovingly raised their 2 children as a stay‑at‑home mother, a role she embraced wholeheartedly and with deep joy.

She was known for her kindness, calm demeanor, joyful spirit, and her ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued. Her warmth and friendship touched countless lives, and her influence will continue to be felt for generations. The most important thing in Mary’s life was her family. She loved them all.

Mary is survived by her devoted husband, Royce; her daughter Kim Keck (Loren); her son Nate Beydler (Hilary); and five beloved grandchildren: Jake Keck (Kenzie), Katrina Keck, Connor Keck, Bailey Beydler, and Brinley Beydler. She is also survived by her sister June Blackson, brother Dave Arbogast, and many extended family members, all of whom will forever hold her memory close.

Her life was a testament to faith, service, and love, a legacy that will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her.

Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.

John B. Storment, a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather passed away on January 6, 2026, at the age of 84.

John was born on November 5, 1941, in Tucson, Arizona.  He spent all of his growing up years in Cochise County, Arizona, spending time in both Tombstone and St. David.  After high school he attended Eastern Arizona College in Thatcher and The University of Arizona in Tucson before serving a two-year full-time mission in Ireland for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  Upon his return, he completed his bachelor’s degree in secondary education at Texas Wesleyan University in Fort Worth, Texas, and ultimately a master’s degree at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff.

John was a devoted educator who thrived on helping young people learn and succeed.  He started his career in Williams, Arizona, but spent most of his professional life with Mesa Public Schools in Mesa, Arizona.  He was a high school teacher, coach, and administrator for over 30 years.

John was committed to his faith, serving in many capacities for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  The highlights of his church service were his various full-time and part-time missions.  He first served in Ireland in his twenties, but also in more recent years with his wife Martha in Boston, Massachusetts, the Tempe Arizona Institute of Religion, and LDS Social Services in Mesa.  His faith in his Savior, Jesus Christ has been his most enduring example to his children and grandchildren.

John is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Martha, their three children, Matthew Storment, Melissa McCook, Allison Bates, their spouses, and ten grandchildren.  John is also survived by his sister, Sharon Davis of St. David, Arizona.

Services will be held Saturday, January 17, 2026, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 925 N. Harris Dr., Mesa, Arizona 85203.  Viewing/Visitation at 9:00AM.  Memorial Service at 10:00AM.

If you are unable to attend the service, please click on the following link to livestream the service: https://youtube.com/live/28v8ebl8550?feature=share

Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.

James Dale Sargent, was born to the late William E. & Joyce Sargent on July 25, 1958 in Superior, AZ. He was the first baby of two children. Very early on Monday, January 5, 2026 at 4:15 am James received a summons from Yeshua to return home.

James was educated in the public schools of Mesa, where he graduated from Mesa High School. He later completed his Bachelor’s degree at ASU in computers. However his passion was always the word of God. He frequently participated in missions trips to Mexico to preach wherever God led him. On one of those trips he met a young lady named Felipa Rivera who he married and helped raise their four children. They moved to Higley, AZ while working at St Joseph’s Hospital as a Technician. In 2008, he founded Golden Censer Ministries through which he was able to influence and support other ministers from all over the world. In 2019, he wrote the book, “Incense and the Glory”. He also found enjoyment in making decorative swords, popping popcorn for his grandchildren, and was the best lasagna maker around.

Brother James, as he was known to so many, taught various bibles studies in churches and synagogues all throughout the Valley. However, he also gathered at homes, parks and reservations, always asking Yeshua to satisfy the hunger in the souls of the men and women of Arizona. Brother James loved visiting the sick and praying for them. He also helped the needy, and those less fortunate. His life’s mission was to win souls for Christ and to share God’s love. He could strike up a conversation with strangers and make them feel like he had known them for years.

Brother James endured hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. When his health began to fail, he never let that stop him from doing the work God called him to do. Even these last few weeks, he was making full proof of his ministry. He was an example of Christ in word and in deed. He truly fought a good fight and has gone to get his reward.

He left to join his daughter Ruth in heaven but left behind his wife, and his three children; Issac, Nuvia, and Esther; his beloved grandchildren; Lucas, Abigail, Camila, Elias, Rebecca, Julian, Azul; and his bonus grandchildren; Javier and Jared.

This servant of the Most High God will be missed.

The Family

Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.

Carol Webster, age 87, passed away peacefully at Lund Home Hospice on November 22, 2025.

She is survived by her loving husband of over 60 years, Miron – affectionately known as “Spike” – and by her daughter, Diane Engel, her only child, who lives in the San Francisco Bay area with her husband Mike and their children: Joshua, age 28 and Amanda, age 23.

Carol and her younger sister, Jean Baumgardner – who recently passed away – grew up in Pocahontas, Iowa. Carol had fond memories of life on the family farm, where homemade goods and bountiful gardens were carefully canned and preserved for the winter months. As the older sister, she shared a special bond with her father spending time hunting, fishing, hiking and learning to appreciate the beauty of the outdoors – a love that stayed with her throughout her life.

The family later moved to Flagstaff and Phoenix and Carol remained an Arizona resident for the rest of her life.

Carol attended Northern Arizona University as a geology major and later Arizona State Teachers College – now Arizona State University – where she earned a degree in secondary education with a minor in English. It was there, in an art class, that she met the love of her life, Miron. They were married just six weeks later and went on to share a lifetime together filled with love, creativity and adventure.

Together they developed a deep appreciation for visual art and the natural beauty of Idaho and Arizona. One of Carol’s greatest adventures was spending three summers with Spike in the Clearwater National Forest in Idaho, living in a remote fire lookout while Spike worked on his master’s degree at USC. It was a time of simplicity, beauty and connection – something Carol always treasured.

They later returned to Flagstaff where they raised their family. Spike served as a professor of ceramics at Northern Arizona University for over 20 years and Carol enjoyed taking elective courses, being active in the Faculty Wives group, joining hiking clubs and participating in the First Methodist Church, where she helped with Sunday School and Bible study. She built a wide circle of friends and neighbors and enjoyed a rich and active social life during their 18 years in the small-town community.

Carol also worked for nine years as a proofreader at the Arizona Daily Sun, where she became well respected for her careful attention to detail and positive relationships with reporters and editors.

In 1984, Carol and Spike built their dream home in Mesa, Arizona. Spike and his brother Gene worked every day for a year constructing a home that reflected creativity, craftsmanship and love – placing their personal stamp in every corner.

Carol later returned to ASU to recertify as an elementary education teacher and spent several years working as a long-term substitute in the Mesa school district.

Carol and Spike were active members of the First Presbyterian Church of Mesa, where they served as communion deacons for three years. Carol loved the life of the church – especially women’s fellowship, Bible study and the beauty of organ music and choir, which deeply touched her spirit.

Above all else, Carol valued people. Neighbors, friends and family were always at the center of her life. She had a natural gift for forming lasting friendships and staying connected – whether through visits, phone calls or letters – and she cared deeply about her community and the people in it.

Over the past 18 years, Carol spent many joyful visits traveling to the San Francisco Bay Area, as well as Long Beach and Orange County, to spend time with Diane and her family – moments that brought her great happiness.

Carol will be forever remembered for her outgoing personality, warm and friendly nature, wonderful sense of humor and genuine care for others.

She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered and never forgotten.

Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.

Shirley Irons  passed away on 01/08/2026 in 07/20/1953, Arizona. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel (480.964.8686).

Dr. William Helfert, a devoted dentist and respected member of his community, passed away on November 23, 2025, at the age of 84.

Dr. Helfert dedicated more than 50 years to the practice of dentistry, serving his patients with exceptional skill, compassion, and unwavering integrity. His work was far more than a profession—it was a calling. He took great pride in improving not only the health but also the confidence of those he cared for, and his commitment left a lasting impact on generations of patients. His long-standing practice stood as a testament to his dedication and love for his work.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Brenda Helfert. He is survived by his wife, Pam Helfert. He is also lovingly remembered by his family members, Betty and Chuck Mulcahy, Michelle and Fred Simanek, Lance and Beth Helfert, Chad and Patrice Janosik, and Cassie and Ryan Kutzbach. He was a proud grandfather to Jeanette, Emily, Will, Jack, Maxwell, Maverick, Karsen, Danica, Cameron, Chadwick, and Chandler, all of whom brought him great joy.

Dr. Helfert will be remembered for his professionalism, kindness, and the meaningful difference he made in the lives of his patients, colleagues, and community. His legacy of care and compassion will endure.

Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.

Marlin Willard Jones (“Willie”) was born on November 14, 1955, in Mesa, Arizona, and passed away on December 20, 2025, in Gilbert, Arizona, surrounded by family and love.

Willie was a hard worker who spent his life in the masonry field, taking great pride in his craft and the work of his hands. His strong work ethic, dependability, and commitment were evident in everything he did. He believed in honest work and doing the job right.

Devoted to his family, Willie shared 40 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Kimberly Jones. Together, they built a life rooted in love, perseverance, and dedication. Above all else, Willie valued those closest to him and was known for his quiet strength, deep loyalty, and genuine kindness.

Willie especially loved and cherished his grandchildren. His greatest joy was holding his grandbabies and playing with the toddlers, finding delight in their laughter and watching them grow. He appreciated life’s simple moments and meaningful conversations, living with integrity and humility.

Willie is survived by his five children and their spouses: Tyler, Brittani, Ryan, Tadd, and Alexa, along with his beloved grandchildren, all of whom will forever carry forward his memory and legacy. He was preceded in death by loved ones who welcomed him home.

A celebration of Willie’s life will be held with his immediate family.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.

passed away January 5, 2026 at age 91, in Gilbert, Arizona. Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel.

Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information. 

Dr. Carl J. “CJ” Metz, age 45, passed away unexpectedly on January 1, 2026.

CJ was born March 26, 1980, in North Platte, Nebraska, to Margaret and David Metz. He attended St. Patrick’s High School, where his early curiosity, determination, and drive were already evident. He went on to pursue his lifelong passion for dentistry and was accepted into the Nebraska Rural Health Opportunities Program (RHOP), earning one of only two pre-dental scholarships awarded that year. CJ received his Bachelor of Science in Human Biology from Chadron State College and his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Nebraska College of Dentistry in 2005.

CJ moved to Phoenix, Arizona, in 2005, where he began his dental career and later founded Vibrant Dentistry in 2010. His practice was built on exceptional care, innovation, and meaningful patient relationships. CJ was consistently recognized by his peers as a top general and cosmetic dentist in the Phoenix metro area. He was a Kois Center graduate and, most recently, a member of the 2025 American Academy of Clear Aligners Fellowship Class and a Key Opinion Leader board member.

Outside of dentistry, CJ loved the outdoors, travel, music, art, Husker football, and most of all, his family and friends. Though he lived across the country, his close connection to family never wavered.

CJ will be remembered for his bear hugs, quick wit, compassion, brilliance, and his gift for making people feel included and cared for. His perfectionism, often taken just a bit too far, was part of what made him who he was and something those closest to him smiled about often. Above all, he wanted people to be happy, and if they weren’t, he made it his mission to change that.

CJ is survived by his father, David Metz; his sisters, Katherine Rector (Joshua) and Mary Grace Metz (Robert Miller); and his niece, Lillian Rector. He was preceded in death by his mother, Margaret Metz, and his niece, Abigail Rector.

Because CJ touched so many lives, services will be held in both Arizona and Lincoln, Nebraska.

A Memorial Mass will be held in Arizona on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 10:30 a.m., with a reception to follow at
Corpus Christi Catholic Church
3550 E Knox Rd
Phoenix, AZ

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at North American Martyrs Catholic Church,
1101 Isaac Dr, Lincoln, NE, on Friday, January 23, 2026, at 10:30 a.m., with a reception to follow.
For those unable to attend in person, the Lincoln Funeral Mass will be available via live stream through the North American Martyrs website.

Burial services will follow at approximately 2:00 p.m. at
Calvary Cemetery & Mausoleum
3880 L St, Lincoln, NE

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in CJ’s memory to support causes that reflected his heart for service and his passion for dentistry. Donations can be made either directly in his name or entrusted to the family to honor his passions.

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul Dental Clinic provides essential dental care to individuals and families in need. CJ generously volunteered his time and skills there to help patients who otherwise might not have access to care, and this clinic embodies his belief that oral health should be accessible to all. https://www.stvincentdepaul.net/?form=donate

Donations may also be made to the University of Nebraska College of Dentistry Dental Student Mission Projects Dedicated Fund, which supports dental mission work and outreach. CJ participated in dental mission care, including a service trip to Guatemala, and he always hoped to continue expanding his involvement in mission-based dentistry. Supporting this fund honors his lifelong commitment to service, global outreach, and providing compassionate dental care to underserved communities.
https://secure.nufoundation.org/give?fundid=01174120&sitename=UNMC%20DEN%20Multiple%20Departments&wprefer=https://nufoundation.org/?s=dental+fund

For those who prefer to send donations to the family, they may be mailed to:
Mary Metz
130 East Cherrywood Drive
Lincoln, NE 68510

Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.