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June 8th, 1941 – January 17th, 2021. Marlene was born in Miami, Arizona to Irven and Verna Carter. She was the oldest of 6 children. She met the love of her life when he attended Eastern Arizona College and they were married in the Mesa, Arizona Temple on July 17th, 1959. They lived in Phoenix and later moved to Tempe.

She is survived by her children Beniah III, Debra Lundgren (Brian), Michael, Steven and David (Angela), 16 grandchildren and 33 great-grandchildren. Also survived by her siblings Carol, Linda, James, Ronald and Terri. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Beniah Wheeler Jr, and Daughter-In-Law Lori.

Marlene spent her life raising her family, serving in the church, and serving others. We will miss her greatly but we know she is reunited with her eternal companion.

A viewing will be held on Wednesday, January 27th, 2021 from 6-8 at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 Centennial Way, Mesa, Az 85201. Funeral services will be held the following day, Thursday, January 28th, 2021 at 11:00 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 2202 N. 74th Street, Scottsdale, AZ 85257 with a viewing 1 hour prior. Burial at Mesa City Cemetery immediately following.  All are invited.  Anyone who prefers to attend the funeral service through Zoom are welcome.  https://zoom.us/j/8757439350?pwd=bnVZckFIMEtOWndBanlIZUpsc1pwQT09

John Edward “Ed” Boyles passed away on Friday, January 15, 2021 at the age of 91 in his home in Mesa, Arizona.  He was born on October 21, 1929 to Lawrence Fax and Mary Boyles in Ann More, West Virginia.  Where he grew up with his Brother Robert Boyles and sister Barbara Crawford.

He met his wife, Carol Lee Boyles, at a New Year’s Eve Party in 1955.  The two wed in Akron, Ohio on August 27, 1956.  They moved to Washington State for a brief period of time, where Ed worked at what he loved….Flying.  Ultimately the two settled in Arizona, moving to Safford in 1957.  There they bought a house and had three children.  Mark Boyles was born February of 1958, Kathy Hunter was born November of 1959, and Mary Jayne Schafer was born October of 1962.  They bought land in Mesa, AZ in 1975 and he helped to build their custom-made home there. 

John went by Ed or Eddie his entire life.  His first granddaughter began calling him “Popeye” at an early age, the name stuck, and he was known by his family as Popeye for the rest of his life.  His father thought he was mentally slow, until he was taken to the optometrist, where his first pair of glasses changed his world.  He knew by age 8 that he wanted to be a pilot, and by his early teens was working at an airport, polishing aluminum planes, which was extremely hard work.  He moved out West to get his Aircraft Mechanics License, and then to Long Beach California, where he worked at the Douglas Aircraft Company.  He was very thin, so he was assigned to work inside the wings bucking rivets, which he hated, so he pursued his Pilot’s License.

Once he had his Pilot’s License, he started out towing Gliders and Crop Dusting.  Once, while crop dusting, he was dusted with crop dusting chemicals and pronounced dead.  He woke up to find himself in a body bag.

He and his wife Carol moved to Safford, Arizona and started working firefighting in bombers.  After Safford, he moved to Washington State where he learned to fly helicopters.  The family stayed for 3 years in Washington.  He eventually moved his family to Mesa, Arizona in 1966 and started working for Aviation Specialties where he flew fires, worked lift jobs, lifted supplies to the Havasupai Indians living in Canyon De Chelly and sprayed for locusts in Mali Africa.  He loved to fly B26s as they were fast, and he could fly alone.  Ed was an exceptional pilot and during one instance, he was being interviewed and a component on the airplane failed, and the airplane shook so bad on landing that it broke all the glass in the instrument panel.  At the end, Ed, chewing his Chiclets, looked at the reporter and grinned at him.  Another equipment malfunction ended up in the movie, Tora, Tora, Tora.  Flying the B-17 Bomber into Hawaii to be used as background, a landing gear wouldn’t drop and he was forced to make a belly landing.  This was all caught on film as the movie producers were going to use the footage in the film and this “accidental” footage was kept in the movie and became one of the more memorable scenes in the move.  Ed also provided stand in work with His Sikorsky S-58 Helicopter for Actor Ernest Borgnine for the Television Show Airwolf.  He was still a member of the Actor’s Guild at his passing.

Ed has flown everything from a fabric covered biplane to large 4 engine bombers and helicopters.  At one point he decided to get his Sea Plane License, just because he wanted it.  He was rated in so many airplanes, that he had to have two pilot’s licenses.  He may be the only man who can claim an accident between a helicopter and a train.

Ed lifted all the air conditioners onto Fiesta Mall, and landed his helicopter at his granddaughter, Autumn’s preschool for transportation day and delivered Santa Clause to Pioneer Park and Tower Plaza in his Helicopter.  Ed was a big influence in many young men’s lives when they wanted to be pilots.

Ed Boyles was a very down to earth man, who never needed all the fancy things in life.  His motto was, if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it.  He taught his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren to be respectful, and hard working.  He worked hard to make sure his family never wanted for anything.  He taught us that we could be whatever we wanted to be and he would tell us he would be proud of us even if we were ditch diggers, as long as we were the best ditch diggers we could be.

He is proceeded in death by his wife of 64 years, Carol Boyles (nee Smith), his parents, his brother Robert and Sister-in-law Michealina, his brother-in-law Lewis and Grandson Ryan Schafer.  He leaves behind his children Mark Boyles, Kathy Hunter, and Mary Jayne Schafer (Rick).  His grandchildren include Sabrina Baker (Brandon), Autumn Sobol (Mark), Thomas Boyles and Stephanie Boyles (Jan).  His great grandchildren include Auston, Kaley and Ariana Baker, and Jillian and Ryleigh Sobol.  His laughter, caring and even stubbornness will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved him.

A memorial service will be held on Friday January 22, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at the Bunker Family University Chapel and he will be laid to rest at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona.  Due to the Covid-19 pandemic there are cemetery restrictions, and no graveside service will occur.  In lieu of flowers, the family prefers tribute donations to the Hospice of the Valley (https://www.hov.org/donate/donate-now/)

Kyle Alan Ray became his family’s guardian angel in Gilbert, AZ on January 15, 2021 at the age of 38. 

Kyle was born in Mesa, AZ on August 9, 1982 to Alan and Jodi Ray. He graduated from Westwood High School in 2000.  Kyle loved spending time with family creating memories from a very early age.  He loved camping, fishing, and hunting with his dad and brothers.  He enjoyed wrestling, cross country, and track in high school.  He has many great memories of spending time with his friends and family during that time, including making pizza’s at closing time, eating Dairy Queen and Filibertos.  He was an Eagle Scout and loved his young men leaders.  Kyle went on to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in the Mexico City East Mission.  After his mission he was blessed with his children Mari, Celeste and Brad.  He was an amazing Dad and lived for his children, so much so that he had to read bed time stories to them before he drove himself to the hospital with a ruptured aorta in 2011.  He had a wonderful job as a Field Service Manager with Getinge that allowed him to be very involved in their lives. 

In October of 2013 Kyle married his forever love, Becca Penrod.  They were blessed with two more children, Jake and Kylee Noel.  He lived every minute making the best home he could for his family.  He loved being able to drop off and pick up the children from school every day he could.  He loved waking up at 4am every other week to take his girls to the temple.  He loved playing games, building legos, going for runs and 40+ mile bike rides, breaking his ribs while boogy boarding with them, being the cheerleader on the sidelines, the biggest fan at their concerts and performances, coaching soccer, swinging at the park, riding the mini bike and reading story after story (just to name a few things) with his kids.  He wanted to make sure that his children knew he loved them and they were the most important thing to him.  He found so much joy in taking trips with them and was always planning the next vacation or surprise.  He wasn’t afraid to do anything and loved seeing smiles on his kids faces.  We know he watches over us and is waiting for us to join him.  He was the biggest kid at heart and favorite Uncle.  He loved Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and wanted that to be an important part of his family’s lives.  He never met a stranger and he loved serving people. He had an amazing smile that made everyone feel better.   He served as a youth in his priesthood quorum, as a missionary, nursery leader, in the Elders Quorum and Sunday School Presidency, as a Primary and Sunday School Teacher and his last calling, assistant to the Young Women President. 

Kyle will be fiercely missed and lovingly remembered by his wife Becca, his children Mari, Celeste, Brad, Jake and Kylee Noel along with his parents Alan and Jodi, his siblings Chance (Stephanie), Amy Beardall (Nathan), and Bryce (Holly), his in-laws Janet Penrod and Becca’s family as well as many many Aunts, Uncles, cousins and friends. 

He is proceeded in death by his grandparents, Norman Ray, Muriel Ray Keyser, Harold Keyser, and Arthur and Norene Widmer and his father in law Kenneth Penrod. 

Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, January 26, 2021, 11:00 am, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints located on 2700 East Guadalupe Road, Gilbert AZ.  A viewing will be held Monday, January 25, 2021 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm and Tuesday, January 26, 2021 from 9:30 to 10:30 am at that same location.  Interment will be at the Mesa City Cemetery proceeding the funeral.  The funeral will be live streamed at http://tiny.cc/KyleRay

Ralph Aranda, Army veteran, was born March 25, 1961 and passed away January 12, 2021. His beloved mama was there to greet her son on his last journey home.  He is son to Ralph Aranda Sr and Elodia Martinez Aranda (deceased) in Phoenix Arizona.

Ralph is survived by his father Ralph Aranda Sr; sister Laura Aranda; three Sons: Abraham, Issac, and Aaron; Grandchildren Suzette Anahi Aranda, Audrey Anna Aranda, and Elena Aranda.

Ralph enjoyed being a restaurateur and managed the New Mexican Grill in Gilbert, AZ where he incorporated his family recipes into the menu of the daily freshly made dishes that created a dedicated following of loyal patrons.

He helped those who did not or could not get out by dropping off food, water, and other home needs, at their front door. He enjoyed and supported his employees who dearly miss him and his laughter.

Visitation will be Saturday, January 23, 2021, from 6p to 8p, at Bunkers University Chapel (3529 E University Mesa AZ). Masks and social distancing are required.

Last words were ‘tell them I love them all’

Tanya Marie Jackson age 34 passed on Jan. 08,2021. Tanya was loved so much and will be missed by her family and friends. Tanya is survived by her 2 sons Landon and Morgan Havier of Santan,Az, great grandmother Vermelia Johnson of Santan,Az, mother Lynette Lopez of Spokane,Wa, 2 brothers Waylon Cooper of Chandler, Az, Emilio Mancillas of Spokane,Wa., 3 sisters Desiree Jackson of Chandler,Az., Erin Cooper of Bapchule,Az. and Lillian Mancillas of Spokane,Wa.

Kathleen Sullivan 66, of Stotonic, Arizona was survived by son Robert Sullivan and daughter Michelle Sullivan. Kathleen who goes by Kathy has 2 brothers, Weldon Salkey, and Dexter Salkey. She has 16 grandkids and 3 great grandkids. Kathleen was a retired (CNA) who loved cats and spending time with family. She will  be greatly missed.

Link to watch the service: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN__u7CIaH-RAiEJmkadv44qw

David Troy Owens was born in Boulder City, Nevada, on March 13, 1967, to David LaGene and Hazel Kaye Owens. They moved to Arizona when David was 2.5 years old. He grew up in Mesa and attended Mountain View High School. He had a passion for basketball and guns, which he passed on to his children.

David married his wife, Tatum Ann Howey, on May 29,1997, and together they blended their three children and went on to have four more children of their own. David spent his life working to build his business and taking care of his family.

He took great pride in raising his seven children with his wife, Tatum, who he adored. His favorite past times included watching his kids compete in sports, taking his guns shooting, and spoiling Tatum. He also enjoyed spending time with his two grandchildren.

David was larger than life and lit up every room he walked into. He was always happy and the hardest worker. He knew how to fix everyone’s problems and was always the “go to”. David showed his love for those in his life through his actions. He made sure everyone was taken care of and never went without.

David was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served his mission in Hong Kong. He was still very fluent in Cantonese and loved any opportunity to speak it.

He passed away on Thursday, January 14, 2021, due to undiagnosed leukemia. He fought hard and strong to the very end. His unexpected passing will leave a hole in the hearts of all who knew him, but most especially his sweet wife and children.

David was preceded in death by his father, David LaGene Owens, and his brother, Shaun Cameron Owens. He is survived by his wife, Tatum, and his seven children:

Britni and Taylor Ipsen; Adelaide

Spencer and Jenna Owens; Troy

Scotlin

Lawsen

Carsen

Kollin

Riggden

and his mother, Hazel Kaye Owens, and his sister, Stephanie Cloward.

The visitation will be Thursday, January 21, 2021 from 6-8 PM at Gilbert Memorial Park, 2100 E. Queen Creek Road, Gilbert, AZ 85297. The funeral service will be Friday, January 22, 2021 at 11 AM, preceded by a visitation at 10 AM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Pecos Park Ward, 2958 S. Recker Road, Gilbert, AZ 85296. Interment will follow at Gilbert Memorial Park.

Richard (Dick) LaMar Cope passed away peacefully on December 25, 2020 in Chandler, AZ.  On July 12, 1939 Dick joined his family as the second-born son to Bud and Adelia Cope, in Elko, NV. Adelia later married Frank Profaizer who raised Dick as his own. Dick married the love of his life, Patricia, on February 24, 1961; they have four living children: LaMar (Gina) Cope, Stacey Cope, Alan (Martina) Cope and Dennis Lupe (Levi) Cope. Richard served in the US Army and in the Navy Reserve, but his service to others never ended. Dick served his family by helping on the family farm and was always helping friends. He retired in 1993 from federal civil service after 20 years. He loved to laugh and joke with his four children, five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother (Gary Cope). He is survived by four brothers:  Frank (Leanna) Profaizer, Doug (Janet) Profaizer, Robert (Gayle) Profaizer and Charles (Tammy) Profaizer.

Peggy Ann Arnold, 68 of Chandler, AZ died on January 10th, 2021 surrounded by her family after a valiant fight against pancreatic cancer.

Service will be at 1pm Saturday February 13th, 2021 at Chandler Heights Community Church- 26612 S. Mandarin Dr. Queen Creek, AZ 85142. The service will be held outdoors. Please wear bright colors in honor of Peggy’s vibrant personality.

An open house will follow at the Arnold Residence in Chandler.

Peggy (Hoffman) Arnold was born on September 20th, 1952, to Richard Hoffman and Irene (Merideth)Woods in Chicago, IL.

On October 8th, 1977, Peggy was joined in marriage to William(Bill) Arnold in Chicago, IL.

Peggy was a devoted wife and mother. In 1979, Peggy and Bill started their family when their first child was born. Peggy spent her time staying home and raising their 3 daughters, Merideth, Jillian and Annette. In 1989, Peggy and Bill moved their family to Arizona, this became their home. Peggy poured her life into serving her family. She was passionate about creating and celebrating traditions; always wanting the family to be together. She enjoyed sewing, gardening, taking family vacations and cruises with her husband. In 2013, Peggy became a grandmother. Besides being a mom, her next greatest joy in life was being with her grandkids. She jumped at every opportunity to babysit them. She loved being a Grandma.

Once her girls were grown, she started her dream job as a flight attendant. She started her career with Ryan International airlines. After a few years she got a job with Southwest airlines. She absolutely loved working for Southwest. She never grew tired of traveling and exploring new places. Peggy flew with Southwest for 13 years. Her goal was to make it to 20 years of service.

Peggy loved people and the love of the Lord was evident in her life.

Peggy is survived by her husband Bill, of 43 years. Her three daughters and their spouses, Merideth and Obadiah Goemaat, Jillian and Adam Koziarski, Annette and Brandon Johnson; 6 grandchildren, Knox, Asher, Harper, Micaiah, Emilia, Penelope. Her mother Irene Woods, her sisters Char Fortman, Sandy Trudeau.

She was preceded in death by her father Richard Hoffman and Charlie Woods, and brother Richard Hoffman. —

Charles E Lary, 73 – was born on May 14, 1947 in Oak Ridge, Tennessee.  After moving and living across the country, he eventually settled in Tempe, Arizona, where he died on January 10^th, 2021, just a few short weeks after Christmas Day.  Charles is survived by a loving wife of nearly 55 years, two daughters, and four grandchildren; all of whom still love and will remember him through the future for the love, laughter, teaching, and care he filled their lives with. 

Beverly Fay Knickerbocker passed away peacefully January 11, 2021, at her home in Mesa, Arizona. She was born August 2, 1924, to Stanley A. Lynch and Josephine E. Lauer Lynch, in Naperville, Illinois. She graduated from Downers Grove High School, in Downers Grove, Illinois. While married to Otis Junior McKenna, she gave birth to Patrick Michael McKenna, her only child, on February 15, 1947, in Hinsdale, Illinois. Pat, also known as Patrick Yitzchak McKenna, passed away on December 27, 1994, in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Beverly married Edward Vielie Knickerbocker, Jr., on November 27, 1959, in Downers Grove, Illinois. He predeceased her on November 23, 2015, in Mesa, Arizona. She was also preceded in death by her parents and by her sister, Alta Sell.

Beverly is survived by her brother, Ronald Lynch of Washington, and by two nephews, three nieces and several great and great great nephews and nieces. Beverly was a life-long, ardent fan of the Chicago Cubs.

Robert Scott Child, our loving husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on Sunday, January 3, 2021. Bob, as he was affectionately known, was an eternal optimist and a friend to everyone. He was a kind and generous man, sharing both his time and talents freely to help others. He was a dynamic storyteller and had a radiant smile and infectious laugh. He also had a great sense of humor, and would frequently laugh at his own corny jokes.

Born in Salt Lake City, Utah on June 19, 1943 to Helen Sarah Miller and Paul Fallentine Child, he was the second of their three sons. Bob and his brothers, Ray and Paul, have a special bond and have stayed very close to one another throughout their lives.

Bob was raised in the Pioneer Stake (Poplar Grove Ward) area of Salt Lake City. He said it was a great place to grow up and loved to share stories of his adventures with his brothers, cousins, and friends, frequently comparing their shenanigans to the “Our Gang” television series. It was during his youth, that he learned how to play tennis and golf.

In 1958, Bob graduated from Jordan Junior High School, which is important to note as he took a beautiful girl by the name of Julie Ellen Pullan to the graduation dance. They both attended West High School, where they would not have a class together until A Capella Choir their Senior year. Their second date was to the High School Graduation dance in 1961. It was a forgone conclusion that Julie would be his date to his college graduation, as they got engaged on New Year’s Eve (12/31/1963), and were married in the Salt Lake Temple on August 18, 1964. Bob attended the University of Utah, graduating in June of 1966 with a B.S. Degree in Accounting. Bob loved his country and served honorably in the U.S. Army Reserves from 1966 until 1972.

Bob’s accounting degree led to employment as a Certified Public Accountant with Arthur Andersen in Phoenix, Arizona. Bob and Julie moved to Tempe, Arizona in 1966 with the idea that they would stay for a few years and then return to Salt Lake City. However, the Arizona sunshine and year-round golf was too enticing, and they have lived in Tempe ever since. Bob became the Chief Financial Officer for Staman Thomas, a construction company that at the time built high-end homes and office buildings in Phoenix and Scottsdale. This experience led him and a colleague to form their own construction business, Myers, Child and Company. Bob became a licensed Real Estate Broker and he eventually formed his own company, Bob Child and Associates. He specialized in commercial real estate and land acquisitions. He enjoyed putting together real estate investment partnerships and over the years was part owner in several ventures which included citrus groves and a mini storage facility, but his pride and joy was a 55+ RV Resort in Yuma, Arizona that he helped build with his partners, and he remained active in the management of the resort up until a few days before his passing.

While Bob was successful in his work, his greatest achievement was his family. He was devoted to his wife Julie and was so proud of his children and grandchildren, never missing a teaching moment or an opportunity to let them know how much he loved them. He would often express that the greatest blessing and gift he had received in life was the opportunity to be a father.

He worked hard and played hard. One of his favorite activities included boating with his family, (we believe he still holds the record for the fastest boat launch on Canyon Lake). Other activities included water skiing, snow skiing, camping, fishing, singing, dancing, family barbeques, outdoor movie nights, swimming with his children and grandchildren, and of course golfing!

Over the last 20 years, Bob and Julie have been blessed to travel the world together. The vast majority of these trips they have had Ray and Ann, and Paul and Linda as their travel companions. They also were able to spend a great deal of time each year in Salt Lake City, enjoying the company of family and friends.

Bob was a devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and loved to serve in every calling he held. He especially enjoyed serving as a Ward Mission Leader and as Bishop of the 19th Ward for Young Single Adults. Serving in the Young Men’s and Scouting programs provided Bob with opportunities to work closely with his sons and strengthen his relationships with them. He was a man of faith and shared his testimony of the gospel daily through his words and actions.

Preceded in death by his parents, he is survived by his beloved wife, Julie; His daughter, Hollie Baker; His sons, Scott (Maribeth), Rion (Beckie), and Matthew (Kathy); His grandchildren Dylan Baker, Hunter (Mikayla), Hailey, Samantha, Connor, Thomas, Brooklyn, Tyler, Megan, Sarah, Scarlett, Caitlyn, and Evelyn; His brothers Ray Child (Ann) and Paul Child (Linda); and all the many nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, friends, and business associates that Bob so dearly loved.
A Viewing will be held on Friday, January 22, 2021 from 5:00 – 7:00 pm at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ 85201.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 23, 2021 at 11:00 am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Tempe West Stake building, located at 1050 West Grove Parkway, Tempe, AZ 85283, with a viewing hour prior to the service from 10:00 – 10:45 am.

Services will also be held virtually and can be accessed at *click the link below *  https://zoom.us/j/93257102316

Burial to follow at Dignity Mariposa Gardens, 400 South Power Road, Mesa, AZ 85206

Doreen Richey 88, of Mesa AZ passed away at home on January 12^th 2021 surrounded by her loving family.

Doreen was born on May 1^st, 1932 in St. Johns AZ to Clyde and Viola Overson. She was the 7^th of 9 children. She loved growing up in a small town surrounded by her cousins and grandparents. After graduating high school at St. Johns High school in 1950 she married a handsome young WWII veteran named Milford Richey on January 6^th 1951. After their marriage they moved to Tempe while Milford went to Arizona State College (later ASU). While Milford was in school Doreen worked as a salesclerk in several department stores. In 1952, Becky their first child was born with her brother Scott following close behind in 1954. Doreen was a loving and devoted mother who adored her children. At one-point Doreen and Milford lived on a street called Granada and Doreen made fast friends with the other women in the neighborhood. They would later call themselves ‘The Granada Girls” and would regularly go out to lunch together and reminisce about the old neighborhood. While her children were young Doreen worked in the home to diligently support her family. When they were teenagers, she went on to manage and run the office of Richey Cable Company. She was a detailed and kind manager. After her children were married and they had some Grandchildren Doreen & Milford decided to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. They were assigned to the London England North mission. There Doreen thrived and was known as the mission Mom. The other elders from the states loved her home cooking especially when she was able to get some Ranch salad dressing sent over from the states. She and Milford loved to travel and go on cruises, she wanted to see the world!

She was a fun and engaging Grandmother. She always had treats or cookies for her grandchildren and eventually her great grandchildren. She loved to have water fights with her grand children and read them stories. She always said that “my grandchildren are the light of my life”. Doreen loved to play games and enjoyed playing cards as it allowed her to love others in a friendly and conversational way.

After Milford passing in 2017 Doreen moved into Becky’s home where she remained until her passing. Doreen had such a love for everyone and had a special way making people feel loved, seen, and important even if they weren’t a part of her family. She invoked the best in people. She made others feel a sense of belonging. She was an optimist and always said, “without change, there would be no butterflies”. Doreen exemplified that statement with her own life. And in the end, she got her wings.

She is survived by her daughter-Becky Pitney, son-Scott Richey (Susan Richey), 13 grandchildren, 41 (soon to be 42) great-grandchildren, a brother Clay Overson, and a sister Isabel Nelson.

A visitation will be held Friday, January 15, from 11:30 am, at Bunker’s University Chapel. Funeral services will follow at the same location immediately following the visitation Burial is Saturday, January 16th, at 3 PM, at the St. Johns Cemetery.

Bernard Keith Ake, 87, passed away peacefully on January 9th, 2021 in Mesa, Arizona.

Astute businessman and true craftsman, Bernie enjoyed many activities such as gardening, baking, and model trains.  He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Marianne, his 5 children: Wayne, Chip, Bryan, Tim, and Cindy; 10 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren; and brother: Paul Ake.

Funeral services for the family will be held at Bunker’s University Chapel.  He will be laid to rest at Mountain View Cemetery in Mesa, Arizona.

Lance Corporal Charles Dale Porter, our beloved Chas, passed away on Thursday, January 7, 2020 at 1:29 pm in a motorcycle accident in La Jolla, California. He worked hard and played hard and had the kind of adventurous spirit that brought life into every room he walked into.

Chas was born in Provo, Utah on March 17, 2001 to Devan Stapley Porter and Olivia Justine Demek Porter. Soon thereafter, the family moved to Arizona and, with his cousins by his side, Chas quickly took life by the horns. Chas was an incredibly active child who enjoyed being outside as often as possible, climbing anything and everything. He loved swimming and trying his hand at any sport his mom would offer to sign him up for. T-ball, swim team, soccer; you name it, Chas was all for it.

Chas had an amazing ability to make his body do whatever he wanted it to. He loved rock climbing, hiking, running, swimming, ultimate frisbee, basketball, lacrosse, and weight training. He loved roller blading, biking, and boxing. He loved physical challenges that required mental strength. He could persevere like a pioneer!

Just before Chas started second grade, the family moved to the island of Alameda, CA, where the adventures for Chas just kept coming. He helped form the inaugural season of the Alameda Attack lacrosse team and went on to play for the team for eight years. He attended Otis Elementary School, Lincoln Middle School, and Alameda High School and excelled in school. He took up the saxophone and joined marching band in middle school and jazz band in high school. It was also during this time that Chas began to compose music on the piano.

Chas was an amazing big brother. He was excited for each and every sibling that came to our home and he nurtured and cared for all of his brothers and sisters. When his mom went to law school, Chas stepped up to help in a big way by babysitting his siblings every afternoon for a couple of hours. He had a gift for teaching and used this gift to teach his brothers and sisters everything. From how to tie shoes to how to read to how to break into the house when you forgot the key; Chas was his siblings go-to guy.

Just prior to his sophomore year, the family moved back to Arizona. Chas worked side by side with his father, renovating the family home. He relished in the demolition, ripping out kitchen cabinets, tearing up tile and carpet, opening walls and single handedly removing a cast-iron bathtub. He also took great pride in his craftsmanship and building skills. He built beams, closed walls, painted and stained walls and doors, and laid a ton of rock. His favorite project was a giant barn door he and his dad made from recycled wood.

After graduating from Arcadia High School in 2019, Chas enlisted in the Marines because he wanted to be useful to his community and serve his country. He also joined because he knew it would push him to reach new physical and mental heights. Chas loved a challenge! After graduating boot camp in January 2020, he began training to become a part of the Marine’s special forces Reconnaissance division. He graduated from the Basic Reconnaissance Course and became a member of Force Recon in December of 2020.

Chas is survived by his parents, Devan and Olivia; his brothers, Benjamin and Isaac; his sisters, Avery and June; his grandparents, Dale and Jana Porter, Charles and Juneanne Demek; lots of amazing cousins, aunts, and uncles. Thankfully, Chas is not alone, as he was preceded in death by his loving Grammy and two cousins, Kylie and James.

Chas lived life to the fullest! He loved his family and friends. He loved music, adventure, and the outdoors. The separation will be painful, but the reunion will be amazing. We love you, Chasbo.

Larry Alfred Philp, our sweet Dad, Grandad, Uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home in Buckeye, Arizona, the evening of January 6th, 2021. Larry was 90 years old.

Larry was born in Claypool, Arizona on December 14th, 1930 to Fidelia (Rose) and Alfred Philp. He grew up in Miami, Arizona  and lived a happy childhood full of work, play, friends, and family. The Philp family worked together to face the trials of the Great Depression. But Larry’s memories of his childhood only included the blessings of frugal living, hard work, and making the best of what you’ve got. Many of Larry’s childhood friends remained a part of his life to the end.

Larry graduated from Miami High School and Arizona State University. He met and married Betty Spears and had his first child, Dana Philp. Sadly, the marriage was short lived.

When our country called, Larry immediately responded by joining the US Army 96th Field Artillery Battalion. Larry served as a 1st Lieutenant in the Korean War from 1950 to 1953 and in the Army Reserves until 1960. Larry was awarded a Purple Heart during his service in Korea. His staunch patriotism was reflected in his military service and continued throughout his life. Larry Philp loved his country and honored those who sacrificed for it.

Upon returning to Arizona, Larry began work at the Miami Copper Company. He loved to spend time with his daughter Dana. Larry often took Dana camping, fishing, target shooting, boating and water skiing. As an early member of the Cobre Valley Country Club, Dad and Dana would often swim and play at the pool. He taught Dana to love and respect nature and the outdoors.

Larry met Diane Pace at a Ward pot luck dinner. They began dating and they were married June 22nd,1963 in the Mesa, Arizona Temple. They moved to Phoenix where Larry worked at Goodyear Aerospace and Diane taught school at Cortez High School. Eventually, they purchased a new home in the growing suburb of Glendale. They loved their new Phoenix West Stake and 17th Ward and fit right in with the newly married couples and growing families in the ward.

After five years and many prayers, Larry and Diane welcomed their daughter, Diana, in 1968. Diana was full of energy and talked and asked questions non-stop. Larry patiently endured and did his best to keep up with all of her talking, talking, talking. As the school years went by, Larry, the engineering and numbers whiz, was tasked with teaching Diana how to do math. Diana was not a numbers whiz and these endless homework sessions at the dining room table were often accompanied by much weeping, wailing, and gnashing of teeth! However, as adults, Diana and Larry were very close and shared a love for America, Mexican food, and Frank Sinatra. Larry lived with Diana and her family for the last few years of his life and she was honored and grateful to have been his caregiver. 

In 1970, Larry accepted a position with Motorola in Scottsdale. For many years, he drove his 1955 GMC pickup truck to work and back, often having to improvise to keep it ‘functioning’. At Motorola, Larry used his sharp analytical mind and a keen attention to technical detail. He was known for catching small calculation errors that would have caused major problems. He excelled at Motorola and proved to be a very valuable employee.

In 1975, at age 45, Larry (and Diane) had their son Michael. Larry shared his love of sports, mechanics, aircraft, and the outdoors with Michael. Despite the age gap, they shared a special relationship and were not only father and son, but best of friends.

Larry was a devoted disciple of Jesus Christ. He studied the scriptures and did his best to live the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He served tirelessly in many callings within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He served as a Bishop, and in Bishoprics, as a homeless support specialist, a missionary, a Temple worker, a High Councilor, and Stake Clerk among many other callings. However, he was and always will be, known for his work with the young men in the boy-scouts. Larry was the scoutmaster. He devoted himself to teaching young men what it means to be a man through love, sacrifice, honor, and dependability. Larry truly lived the scout oath: “On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law; to help other people at all times; to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.” Today many of his former scouts have families of their own and continue to pass these values on to the next generation of young men and women.

Larry retired from Motorola in 1995. This allowed him to focus more on family history, church service, and self improvement. He joined Michael in classes at Glendale Community College to continue his education purely for the love of learning. 

In 2001, Larry and Diane moved from their home in Glendale to Avondale. They immediately made many dear friends and began again to love and serve those around them.

In 2004, Larry and Diane served a full time mission at the family history center at Temple Square in Salt Lake City, Utah. Larry was fully engaged in family history research and loved to help people find records of their loved ones. In addition, he found hundreds of records pertaining to members of his own family. He was always ready to show off his family tree and family history research to anyone who would listen.

In 2018, when circumstances required, Larry and Diane moved to Buckeye to live with Diana. Diana and her family loved and cared for Larry for the rest of his life. Diane passed away in November of 2019. Larry was only apart from his sweetheart for a year before reuniting with her, never again to be separated.

Larry will be remembered for doing things his way. He marched to the beat of his own drummer and was unique in every sense of the word. From the way he spoke, to the way he stood, to the way he ate his french fries, Dad was an original. We could literally fill a book full of the funny things Dad did and said.  He was the model of stoic consistency for our family. He was our rock. He loved, he served, he worked, he laughed, and he prayed. 

Larry was preceded in death by his parents Fidelia and Alfred, his sister Nancy (Seth) and his beloved wife Diane. He is survived by his three children Dana Philp (Jan), Diana Weight (Ryan), and Michael Philp (JodiAnn) as well as his three grandchildren Pace Weight, and Bailey and Maddie Philp.

Services will be held graveside on Tuesday January 19th at 11:00am at the Louis B. Hazelton Memorial Cemetery (23100 W. Broadway Rd. Buckeye, AZ). The service will also be live streamed on Facebook Live (https://www.facebook.com/diana.weight)

We will always love you Daddy.

“Well done thou good and faithful servant”