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Brown, Gary E., Age 75 (01/22/1946 – 01/30/2021) of Minneapolis, MN and Mesa, AZ passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, after a short battle with cancer. Preceded in death by his father (Ray), mother (Bernice), Sister (Priscilla) and brother (Richard). Survived by his brother (Robert), his wife Rebecca (Triplett) Brown, children and spouses Anthony (Tracy), Rafael, Thomas (Christiana), Joseph (Amy), Richard (Melissa), Donald (Kelly) Constance (Francisco), Susanne (Wesley), 16 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild (arriving in April), and countless foster children, extended family members, and friends. Gary was a man of principle and strong faith, a loving family man with a laugh to light up the room. Time with family meant more to Gary than anything else; He and his wife, Becky, spent much of their retirement years travelling the country in their motorhome, enjoying nature, and planning time with their children and friends. Gary was an avid scuba diver for many years, loved camping and fishing with his family, especially in Bayfield, Wisconsin, where his father was from. Gary loved to watch wrestling matches – an event he cherished with his own father as a child and later shared that favorite pastime with his children – some of whom wrestled all through their high school and college years. Gary never missed his children’s sporting events. Whether it was wrestling, football, baseball, soccer or karate – Gary was always there, beaming with pride as he cheered his kids on – a trend he continued with his grand children’s sporting events. He was also an off-road 4 wheeling enthusiast and joined a local “Jeep club” in Arizona, spending weekends climbing hills, traversing rocky terrain, and occasionally terrifying his wife. A cowboy at heart and a friend to all – he was the calm in any storm, approaching life one day at a time – with another adventure just around the corner.  He will always be remembered as a man who tried to live every day to the fullest. Pals Forever.

Harold Eugene Ragland, 78 passed away peacefully on March 1, 2021 in Mesa, AZ.

He was born to Roy I. and Mildred A. Ragland of Utica, IL.  He lived a very happy, healthy active life. He enjoyed friends and family, gardening, wood working, and being outdoors. In 2002 he married Angela (Cuccia) in Winfield, IL. He retired from DuPage County Forest Preserve and National University of Health Sciences. They Moved to Mesa, AZ in 2008.

He is survived by his Wife, Angela. Daughters; Denise (Don) Denges, Tina (Steve) Voss and Son; Harold Jr (Lisa) Ragland. Stepdaughter Gretchen Ann Ortiz and Stepson Timothy Friedeck. Grandchildren; Justin (Daisy) Ragland and Stephanie Ragland. Step-Grandchildren; Xander Ortiz, Anthony Ortiz and Alli (Matt) Siemer. Great-Grandchildren; Justin Jr Ragland and Audrey Ragland. Step-Great Grandchildren; Garrison, Maddox, Lawson and Callie Siemer. Sister in law, Kathleen Cuccia.

Proceeded in death by his Parents, Brothers; Roy Jr (Pat), Ronald, Glen and Sister-in-Law Cammie Sprague.

We wish to thank Banner Baywood Heart Hospital and Dr’s; Rodrigo Chan and Raffy Safarian.

A Memorial Mass will be held at All Saints Catholic Church at a later date, followed by a Burial Service in Racine, WI.

In Lieu of Flowers, donations can be made at All Saints Catholic Church in Mesa, AZ or to the American Heart Association.

Our most beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend has joined her family in Heaven on March 1, 2021, and will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. Mary Alice Perkins was born Mary Alice Pavelich in Mesa, Az, to parents Vivian (Phillips) and Milan Pavelich on March 26, 1942. She was the second born of eight children and was raised on the Pavelich family farm on South Stapley Drive where they grew cotton, maize and alfalfa and had lots of fun with the neighbor kids in their large yard playing baseball and Red Rover, Red Rover. Mary lived in Mesa all her life. A graduate of Mesa High School, she and her husband Kenneth owned and operated the Perkins Diesel Shop in Mesa, where she worked until approximately 2019.

Those who knew Mary loved her deeply. She was the most kind, giving and selfless person and always thought of others before herself. She is predeceased by her beloved husband Kenneth, her parents, her brother Michael and her sister RoseMary. She is survived by her three sons, Andrew (Mirka), Jay (Laura) and Ron (Faith), grandchildren; Andrew (Nona), Hannah, Ryan (Britney), Trey Wilson and great-grandchildren Paisley and Kenny and her brothers Nick and George and her sisters Katie Meyer, Joann (Jack) Wendell and May Porter, and many nieces and nephews.

Favorite pastimes included going to lunch or dinner and seeing the latest movies, taking trips to see family in other states and avidly working the crossword puzzles. She loved family and her Alma School Road home was always the center of celebrations and family gatherings where she made the most wonderful dishes for all to enjoy. She also enjoyed the Perkins’ second home in Snowflake, Az, where she and Ken spent many wonderful weekends at their country mountain getaway. One of her great delights was attending a Mesa High class reunion, which was held on a cruise to Alaska several years ago.

Our sorrow is great in the loss of our wonderful, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend Mary, yet our hearts rejoice that we will one day meet again in a glorious reunion in Heaven.

A graveside service is planned for Saturday, March 13, at the Mesa Cemetery at 9:30 am. Arrangements are being made through Bunker Family Mortuary.

Ronald Paul Adams passed away February 16, 2021 in Gilbert, AZ at the age of 71 after a valiant fight with COVID. He is survived by his wife Noreen, daughter Julie and her husband John, son Jason and his wife Kathy, daughter Jennifer and her husband Nate, mother Verla, and brothers Glenn and Roger and eleven grandchildren.  He is preceded in death by his father Paul and brother David. Funeral services are Saturday, March 6th at 10am at the LDS building 1911 N. 24th St in Mesa with viewing the night before, March 5th, from 5:30- 7:30pm at Bunker Funeral Home 3529 E. University Dr in Mesa.

Ron was born April 3, 1949 in Salmon, ID but spent most of his childhood in Pocotello, ID with his mom, dad, and three brothers. Ron met and married the love of his life, Noreen Edwards, while at college in Utah and was sealed for time and all eternity on December 21, 1971. He studied in engineering at Brigham Young University and signed on with the Navy after graduation. He went on to become computer intelligence for the military. While stationed in Honolulu, HI, he and Noreen had their first daughter Julie and a year later, welcomed a son, Jason. The family moved to Denver, CO where their youngest, Jennifer, was born. After eight years of honorable service in the Navy, Ron was offered a job in Mesa, AZ as a computer architect at Hughes Helicopters which was subsequently bought by McDonnel Douglas. Ron’s employer later merged with Boeing Aerospace where he worked until his retirement in 2017 completing 43 years in the profession.  He had opportunities to learn to play the guitar, ride horses with his friends, and occasionally had quiet time to read endless stacks of books. He took pride in the care of his house and was found every weekend mowing the lawn or doing some project around the house. Although intensely determined and opinionated at times, he was willing to help anyone in an instant. On trips back to Idaho, Ron would escape to the creeks and rivers for some fly fishing. He was very supportive of kids and grandkids by attending sporting events as well as concerts over the decades. He was diligent in his church callings, particularly as a ward clerk for 20 years. In retirement, he was able to devote more time to family history and traveling the US in his RV. Even though he enjoyed many hobbies, Ron’s greatest treasure was always his family. He had the sweetest spirit and will dearly be missed.

Zoom link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/4137917312?pwd=aEM4YmN2WjZNRHIwdTVPVWZUNzBjUT09

Wallace R. Booth was born on July 7, 1930 in Columbus, Georgia to Lattie Mae and Jeffie Booth.  He loved his family, he loved his church, and he loved See’s candy.  He might have dropped his southern accent but he always was the ultimate southern gentleman.  He loved to welcome guests to his home and always had a cool drink and treat waiting. Always a hard worker he started working at the age of eight delivering groceries to help support his widowed mother.

Wally served in the US navy during the Korean War where he was stationed in Honolulu, Hawaii.  In the Navy he formed lifelong friendships and one of the highlights of his life was being able to host the Pearl City reunion every April at the Lion House in Salt Lake City.  He was grateful for the GI bill which gave him the opportunity to attend BYU and earn an accounting degree.

On September 13, 1956 he married Joan in the Salt Lake City temple.  They were married for over 50 years and she was the love of his life.  After her death in 2007 he lovingly talked the about the day he would eat lunch with her again.  Wally and Joan raised their three children in Mesa, AZ.  He was a CPA working for Arthur Young when there were only 3 accountants in the office.  He served in bishoprics, high councils, and wherever he was needed.

In 1985 Wally and Joan were able to move back to Atlanta, Georgia so he could take a job with Home Depot in their corporate office.  He enjoyed being back in Georgia and giving his children and grandchildren what he affectionately called “the roots tour”.  While in Georgia he was called to be a sealer in the Atlanta Georgia LDS temple where he was able to serve alongside childhood friends and siblings.

Wally was very generous. Church leaders always knew that they could contact him when someone needed help. At Christmas his See’s candy order to friends and family was over 8 pages long.  When asked how he made it made it to 90 years old he said, “The secret is to eat lots of Ding Dongs, they contain preservatives.”

He is survived by son Michael, and daughters Cindy (Hilton) Harris, Chris (Jeff) Blau, nine grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren.

Due to the pandemic a graveside for immediate family only will be held.

Christina Renee Sorensen, 52, was called home on Sunday, February 21st, 2021.There she was met by many family and friends to welcome her with open arms.

Her love will continue to stretch beyond the veil through her dear husband, Mark Anthony Sorensen, and her two beautiful daughters, Madison and Paige.

Christina led a life of unconditional love, a love that encompassed all who surrounded her. Despite the adversity that she faced throughout her younger years, her perseverance shone through every moment and molded her into the incredibly strong and passionate woman that she became. Christina emulated the benevolence of Christ, her acceptance of each person whom she crossed paths with, no matter their background, was and will continue to be one of her most admirable and influential qualities.

A favorite quote of Christina’s reads, “Praise is the element by which we grow. By treating others with respect for who they are, by praising them for what they have accomplished, we help them become even better. We all crave appreciation and praise, yet it is so seldom heard. Praise and appreciation are the most powerful forces for good on Earth. Whatever we praise, we increase.”

Above all, Christina’s love for her family and creating long and lasting memories together was her greatest life’s work. They meant and will continue to mean everything to her as she expresses that love and protection from her heavenly home.

She will be deeply missed, but her presence will carry on in this Earthly life until we may one day be happily reunited.

The funeral Service will be held on Friday, March 5th at 11:00 AM, mountain standard time. Located at the Gilbert Arizona Stake Center, 777 E Elliot Rd, Gilbert  AZ , 85234

For those wishing to attend virtually, there will be a Zoom meeting option, followed by the link below :

https://zoom.us/j/99270229594

ID : 992  7022  9594

Elaine D Machacek (Bohn) of Mesa, formerly of Langdon, ND passed away on February 24, 2021 in Scottsdale.  She was born to William A and Gunda Bohn on March 24, 1934 on the family farm.

She married Charles ‘Chuck’ Machacek on June 16, 1952 in Langdon.  She worked on the family farm, raised their boys, worked for the ASCS (Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service) for many years and owned and managed the Rainbow Bottle Stop.

After retiring she enjoyed travel and fishing during the summers. Winters were spent in Mesa, AZ where they made their permanent home.  Elaine kept active with music directing, baseball spring training concessions, playing cards, daily cross word puzzles, and going to her favorite bingo spots.  She enjoyed watching the Phoenix Suns and the AZ Diamondbacks.

She is survived by son Craig (Brenda) of Maple Grove, MN. Grandsons Weston and Evan, Great-granddaughters Aspen and Vayda, and Tom Rodning.  She is also survived by sister, Janice Nuelle and brother Curt (Sharon) Bohn, as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Elaine was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, son Kerry, and Great-grandson Jaxson.

Services will be held Friday, March 5, 2021 at 11:00 AM at Bunker’s University Chapel, 3529 E. University Dr, Mesa, AZ 85213.  Interment at a later date at Calvary Cemetery in Langdon, ND.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to any choice of the donor.  Online obituary may be viewed at www.bunkerfuneral.com

Lynn Ann Cochran was called peacefully to her eternal heavenly home February 25, 2021, at the age of 76. She was preceded in death by her husband Roger Allen Cochran, daughter Michelle, and son James. She is forever remembered by her five children Matthew, Mark, John, Joseph (Jennifer), Amy Griffis (Jeff); 16 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and 4 sisters.

Lynn was blessed with an extended and loving family. Becoming a wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother filled her heart. She loved spending time with her family who were her everything and her greatest joy in life was watching them learn and grow. She was kind and soft-spoken, and always had time to help others.

Throughout her work career in higher education, she made many cherished and enduring friendships. Lynn was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – always serving and meeting the needs of those around her. Her home was one built on love and faith and was centered around her love for our Heavenly Father. She enjoyed participating in family history work, learning from the scriptures, and building her knowledge of all things gospel related.

She has touched many hearts and will be fondly remembered and cherished by her family and loved ones. Lynn will be laid to rest at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona on Monday, March 8, 2021.

Scripture verse:  “I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up.” (D&C 84:88)

Florence Mary Wilt, 88, of Phoenix, Arizona loving mother of Carla, Chad, Carl, Curt, and Christopher Wilt and Late Vicki and Heather; cherished grandmother to eight; sister to Marie and late Bob and MaryLou. Even though a failing heart took her away from this world, her loving heart will remain engrained in all of us. Her everlasting cheerful smile along with foregoing determination shall be missed. Memorial services provided by Bunker Family Funeral Services in Mesa, Arizona. To send Sympathies see bunkerfuneral.com/obituaries

In Lieu of flowers, please donate to St. Jude’s in Florence’s name.

On the morning of February 17, 2021, Janelle Ann Sherwood, age 48, passed away peacefully at her home in Queen Creek, Arizona after a courageous battle with breast cancer.

Janelle was born November 21, 1972 in Roosevelt, Utah and was the oldest of John and Janette Jakoubek’s 9 children.

Janelle lived a happy, active life filled with family and friends that was centered around Christ.  She loved spending time with her family. Her kids were her everything and her greatest joy in life was watching them learn and grow.  Becoming a grandma to Owen filled her heart.  She loved playing with him and got a kick out of his adventurous and playful personality.  Her home was one built on love and faith and was centered around her love for our Heavenly Father.  She enjoyed learning from the scriptures and building her knowledge of all things gospel related. 

She is survived by her husband Brett Sherwood, her 7 children, Braden Sherwood and his wife Sarah, Rachel Hansen her husband Jacob, Kyle Peterson, Kaden Sherwood, Raith Sherwood, Tessa Sherwood, Piper Sherwood, and grandson Owen Hansen.  She is also survived by her grandmother Lila Proffit, father John Jakoubek, stepmother Margo Jakoubek, her siblings Joanne Stradling (Brian), Janeen Tripp (Michael), Jenifer Jakoubek, Jessica Preisner (Kristian), Jacqueline Tingey (Greg), Jolene Jakoubek, John Jakoubek (Sara), and step siblings Levi McKinnell (Erin), Luke McKinnell, Megan da Fonseca (Hugo), Logan Shupp, Kelsea Mae Wade (Andrew), Moriah Shupp, and several Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Nieces and Nephews. 

A funeral service will be held Friday February 26, 2021 @ 10:00 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints: 7361 S. Constellation Way  Gilbert, Az 85296.  She will be buried at the Mesa Cemetery: 1212 N Center St, Mesa, AZ 85201. 

Guadalupe G. Landin, born on November 20^th 1938, in El Paso Texas, entered into her eternal home on February 21^st 2021, In Mesa, AZ.

 Her unfaltering belief and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ brings her loved ones comfort and peace knowing she has gone to be with him. Her journey through this world touched many hearts and she will be sorrowfully missed.

 She was a devoted mother and loving wife, preceded in death by her son, Daniel and husband Gilbert Landin. Survived by her children : Norma Landin, Adam Landin, and Lucinda Landin, David Landin, 13 grandchildren, and 8 great grandchildren.

Memorial Service will be held at First Southern Baptist Church of Mesa, on Tuesday, March 2^nd, 2021 at 11 a.m.

Sacaton – Paul Peter 80 Died peacefully at home in Sacaton on February 9, 2021 after a long Battle with Cancer. Paul was born on August 31, 1940 to Katherine Joseph Peter and Steven Peter in Fort Yukon, Alaska.

He went to school in Alaska, then to Haskell Indian College in Lawrence, Kansas. He then went to school in Dallas, Texas to become an Electrician. He worked for the Mines in Ajo Arizona for some years. Then he worked for San Carlos Irrigation Project in Coolidge, Arizona for 30+ years as an electrician.

He enjoyed eating out at Golden Corral and his favorite restaurant was China King. He also enjoyed going to the casinos and watching Football and Basketball. His favorite teams were the Arizona Cardinals and Phoenix Suns. He also liked dancing to his Alaskan Music.

He is survived by Janet Manuel Peter whom he was married to for 55 years. His kids Edwin “Sonny” Peter, Karen Peter and Brandon Peter. His siblings from Alaska Adeline Raboff, Kathy Peter, Bessie Williams, Hannah Flaherty, Jean Proctor, Steve Peter, Walter Peter and Webster McKee. Also, eight grandkids and twenty great-grand kids.

He was preceded in Death by his Parents Katherine and Steven Peter, a Great Grandson Jaime Chico and a granddaughter Kaitlin Paula Chico.

Lonnette Miner Millican-Villarreal, 72, passed away on February 12, 2021 in Mesa, Arizona.  She was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where she held many callings over her lifetime.  She was preceded in death by her husband James Robert “Bob” Millican.  She is survived by her four children Karson (Patrick) Neel, Cory (Christina), Timothy (Kim) and Philip (Jessica).  She also leaves behind a posterity of 17 grandchildren: Ashley, Erica, Amber, Aubrey, Cambria, Colby, Caden, Cecily, Claire, Charlie, Christopher, Jordan, Cameron, Kaylin, Cassidy, Macy, Kylie and 17 great-grandchildren: Jason, Kyle, Ruby, Sophie, Hank, Oliver, Archer, Vienne, Jude, Maxwell, Charlotte, Timmy, Harper, Jack, Dean, Maddux and Everett.; brother: Donald Miner & sister: Peggy Turley.

Lonnette accomplished many things in her lifetime.  She had a love of creating, often making her children’s clothing when they were little.  She continued this creativeness in making her grandchildren and great-grandchildren quilts when they were born.  She loved to learn and went to school to become a nurse and graduated in 1984.  After working several years as a nurse, she continued her education by getting her Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Nursing and continuing on in the medical field as a director over hospice before she retired in 2011 to spend more time with Bob. 

After Bob passed away, Lonnette met Art Villarreal.  She knew Art previously from high school in Buckeye, AZ.  They were married in May of 2012.  They loved to travel and do adventurous things such as a hot air balloon ride and going on an Alaskan cruise.   As Lonnette’s health began to decline in recent years, Art took loving care of her by taking her to doctor’s appointments and taking care of her at home.  She was the love of his life and he was such a blessing in her life.

Funeral services are February 27, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints building located at 1500 E. 6^th Avenue, Mesa, AZ 85204.  A visitation will be the night before on February 26^th from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Bunker’s University Chapel, 3529 E. University Dr., Mesa, AZ.

Zoom Meeting Link:

https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fzoom.us%2Fj%2F95268122293%3Fpwd%3DVkdVcmFJcU9ESjgyVVJLZ0JvUWEwUT09&data=04%7C01%7C%7Cdcd67b6b055440e7e07608d8d83b77d5%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637497097204080814%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&sdata=WAzssz%2B2pglYBwperj6MNYr16DOuUPmTJl6iP5cnAwY%3D&reserved=0

Meeting ID: 952 6812 2293

Passcode:  827275

Marvin Howard  Sly, 77 of San Tan Valley, AZ died on February 14, 2021. 

 Marvin was born January 10, 1944 in Murray, Utah to Howard Vanquill and Lois Elaine Pearson Sly, who preceded him in death.  Marvin is also preceded in death by his sweetheart of 40 years, Wilda Jeanette, Hull Sly and Grandson Garrett Bullock Hebdon.  

 Marvin was a loving Father of 9 Children, 42 Grandchildren and 30 Great Grandchildren.  Parrish and Ruthie Sly of Godley, TX, Michael and Annette Sly of St. George, UT, Alan and Lisa Stillwell of Mesa, AZ, Russell and Pamela Sly of Lewiston, ID, Jennifer Sly Goodman of Queen Creek, AZ, Todd and Amy Hebdon of Queen Creek Arizona, Eran and Michelle Sly of Davenport, FL, Christopher and Michelle Sly of Gilbert, AZ, Colbie Sly of San Tan Valley, AZ. Sister Valerie Sly McCoy of Sandy, UT. 

 Marvin left behind a bountiful legacy of Children, Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren when he returned to his Heavenly home to join his eternal companion. It is fitting that the sweethearts were reunited on Valentine’s Day as their love story was  inspirational. Marvin loved his Family, God Country, Knowledge, Nature and Music.  He was a spiritual giant, who was well versed in scripture and had a close relationship with his Heavenly Father. Marvin taught his children to love the Lord. He adored his family and always took time to teach his children music, art, sports, civics, astronomy, history, and to love nature. He exhibited never ending resolve and  patience in teaching anyone willing to learn and  listen. 

 Marvin was blessed with musical gifts which he instilled in his  children to help bring music to the world by teaching them to play and sing since they were young. His children fondly remember when he would sing and play his guitar at their bedsides. Christmas and family nights were also filled with magic thanks to Marvin playing his guitar and encouraging everyone present   to join. 

 Marvin loved and served his country as a soldier in the United States Army, 101st Airborne Division where he received awards and recognition. His sons followed in his footsteps through service in different branches of the military. He loved the United states Flag , the Constitution and everything they stand for. Marvin ensured  that his children knew the history of the country and the sacrifices that were made for freedom and liberty. 

 Marvin was actively engaged in learning his entire life, but completed his Bachelors of Science in Law Enforcement from Brigham Young University, on May 26, 1972. Marvin continued to serve his community through civic and social service related fields including, private  and public investigations as well as service with Fire Department and Corrections agencies. 

 Marvin saw much of the world in his travels and appreciated learning about different cultures and backgrounds. Marvin was blessed with many talents which he willingly shared. His home was filled with beautiful artwork that he created and collected. Marvin was a writer, philosopher and dreamer. He had a quick wit and continuously offered cheer to those around him. Though at times he could be cynical, he was also very prophetic. He would call things as he saw them and had a great ability to read between the lines. With Marvin you always knew where you stood and where he stood on most issues. His directness was balanced by his ability to forgive. 

 The world has lost one of its original good guys, but his legacy will continue in his children. We will think of our Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather when we feel the sunshine on our shoulders, see the mountains, the sunset, a storm, or ocean waves. We will hear him whisper in the wind, music, through our spirits, and in our children’s laughter. We will continue to emulate him with our dedication to our religion, our country and each other as a family. 

 Though Marvin did not always do things in conventional ways, he created a unique path as he marched to the beat of his own drum, while at the same time adding a variety of landscapes to beautify the lives of all around him. Thank you for providing a beacon of light to help us shine, a compass to give us direction and a lighthouse to lead us safely home.  

 Colbie’s siblings promise to watch over her to ensure that she is always close. Marvin, everyone who knew you will miss you every second until we meet again. Please give Mom a big hug from all of us. It’s not good bye, it’s see you later, until we meet again Daddy, Diddy, Dadio, Pops, Marvy, Marv, Howie, Grampa, Uncle, Padre and Friend. 

 Services will be held on February 27, 2021: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1521 E Bella Vista, San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

VIEWING: 10 am; SERVICES: 11 am,  BURIAL: 2 pm, including Military Honors provided by The United States Army at the City of Mesa Cemetery 1212 N. Center Street, Mesa, AZ 85201. 

For those unable to attend, viewing & services may be viewed via LIVE STREAM:  https://youtu.be/BBV_c_4W61M

Flowers may be sent to: Bunker Memorial Funeral Home, 3529 E University Dr., Mesa AZ 85213

Larry Elmer Milburn Pullen, 81, devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and uncle, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2021. Larry’s kindness and genuine interest in those he came in contact with instantly made Larry a favorite of so many.  He was born March 7, 1939 in Lincoln Park, Michigan to Charles and Mabel Pullen. 

Upon graduating high school, Larry worked at Ford Motor Company with his late sister Ida Carter Anderson prior to attending BYU to study accounting. After two years of studies; January 5, 1962 Larry was inducted into the United States Army.  For the majority of his service he traveled Western Europe as Military Police.  It was then that he discovered his love for travel, a passion for world cultures – specifically French and Italian.  Upon leaving the service, Larry finished his degree at BYU and graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Accounting. 

On June 18, 1970, He married Marylin Charters Sims, in the Dearborn Ward Chapel in Dearborn, Michigan. Together they had one daughter, Susanna Vivian Charters Pullen and raised Karen Sims Buchanan, Doug Sims, Carolyn Sims Sabol, and Sandra Sims Littlehale.   Shortly after marrying, they uprooted and moved to Mesa Arizona to be near family.  

April 14, 1982 Larry remarried and was sealed to Barbara Sorden Kudlicki in the Mesa, Arizona Temple.  Together they had Ashley Sue Ann Marie Pullen and Barbara brought Rich Kudlicki, Danny Kudlicki, Deena Kudlicki Moffat and Dorine Kudlicki Neeley to the family as well. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Barbara Pullen; sister Iva Skidmore; his two daughters Susanna Pullen (Jennifer Drury) and Ashley Bradley (Dallin); his step children Rich Kudlicki (Michelle), Danny Kudlicki (Ann Marie), Deena Moffat (William), Dorine Neeley (Kurt); 24 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren 

Larry spent his professional career as an accountant and used those acquired skills to serve as such within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

He enjoyed the arts, traveling, racquetball, basketball, football, any and all sports – spectating and playing. Most of all he enjoyed his family.  His family and friends will miss him and his loving teases immensely.  His legacy of loving relationships will be remembered and will be one we will all look to in emulation.  A very special thank you is extended by his family to Arizona Hospice of the Valley for the tender care they delivered to him in his final days. 

Funeral services will be Thursday, February 25 at 10:00 AM at the LDS Stake Center on 925  North Harris, Mesa. A visitation will be held from 9:00 – 9:45 that morning at the same address.  An additional visitation will be at Bunker, Centennial Way on Wednesday, February 24 from 6:00 – 8:00 pm. 

For those who would like to view the service online, please join us at:

https://zoom.us/j/98437421818?pwd=ejJtNUlMNzNoVmpzMlREaU9GWk5pQT09

Vivian Helene Spencer, 93, went to her heavenly home on February 18, 2021. Her devotion to family and firm belief in the Lord Christ as her personal Savior brought peace to us all during her final days.

Vivian was born to Hubert and Clara Heaton in Fort Madison, Iowa on November 16, 1927. She was part of a loving Christian family and community that would be her lifelong support from an early age. She learned about Jesus and His sacrifice for our sins as a child from her maternal grandmother. She was active in teaching youth groups and Sunday School children her entire life, sharing the “Good News” of the gospel.

Vivian was blessed with an extended and loving family. In her early teens she, her parents and sister moved to Phoenix, Arizona. She was a graduate of Phoenix Union High School and had a long career as an executive assistant for a national insurance company and later in life the Arizona Department of Transportation. Throughout her work career she made many cherished and enduring friendships.

Vivian was an educator and evangelist at heart. Her love of teaching the word of God, especially to little children, helped so many find their way to salvation in Christ. She was mind and soft-spoken, and always had time to help others. She is dearly missed by her family and loved ones, but now celebrate the fact that she is at her eternal home with the Lord.

Vivian is survived by her sister Shirley Neece; her son Steve and daughter-in-law Tamara; her grandchildren Nicole Ellis, Jason Spencer, and Nora Spencer; and 7 great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, Ray, and her parents.

Burial services will be held at Greenwood Memorial Lawn Cemetery at 11:00 a.m. on February 24. Pastor George Harvey Jr. officiating the graveside service. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in her name to The Phoenix Rescue Mission (https://phoenixrescuemission.org/) and/or the North Valley Freewill Baptist Church (https://nvfwbc.org/give).

Bible verse:

John 5:24 “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that hearth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.”