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*Those attending the services to honor Richard will be required to wear a facemask and adhere to physical distancing guidelines at the mandate of the Governor and Mayor.

Services on Saturday can be viewed via live broadcast at the following link: https://youtu.be/JWFZCeBri9s

Richard Bennion Johnson, 79, passed away on Saturday, August 08, of an extended illness. Richard was born on October 19, 1940 in Murray, Utah to Rolland and Ruth Johnson. He grew up on his parent’s dairy farm along with his older brother, Sherman, and younger brother, Ronald. It was there that Richard developed a strong work ethic.

Richard excelled throughout his school years. He graduated from Utah State and then the University of Utah, earning his juris doctorate degree. He moved to Arizona to begin his law career. He needed to establish Arizona residency, so he used that year serving as a law clerk for Chief Justice Jessie Udall, of the Federal Supreme Court in Arizona. He then joined a large law firm in Phoenix and after working there 10 years, he opened his own practice in Tempe.

Richard was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many ward and stake capacities. He cherished his associations and friendships he developed through that service. Richard had the opportunity to serve two missions for his church. The first as a young man in the Northern States Mission, and the second with his wife Carol, in the New York South Mission.

Richard is survived by his wife, Carol Bedford Johnson, and 11 Children and 24 grandchildren. Richard and his first wife, Joanne, had 6 children, Kristine (Rob) Corder, Mark ( Sally) Johnson, Melissa ( Russ) Kurtz, Matthew (Deirdre) Johnson,  Anne Gould, and Michael Johnson. He was also father to Carol’s 5 children, Scott ( Becca) Fuller, Christina (Justin) Fuller, Brian (Patty) Fuller, David ( Nikki) Fuller, and Laura (Dolan) Fuller. He is survived by his brothers, Sherman (Janice) and Ronald (Sharon). He was preceded in death by his parents, Rolland and Ruth Johnson, his sister, Diane Anderson, granddaughter, Sarah Kurtz, and first wife, Joanne.

A viewing will be held at Bunkers Garden Chapel on Friday, August 14 from 6-8 PM. The funeral will be at the same location on Saturday, August 15 at 11:00am. The service will be streamed ( Check back here for the link.)

After 95 years of adventures, Farrell Walter Lewis reached the end of this life’s journey on August 8, 2020.  He left behind sorrowing loved ones who rejoice that he has been “taken home to that God who gave him life” (Alma 40:11) and that he was welcomed by previously departed loved ones.  Farrell was always upbeat, optimistic, and ready with a joke or quip.  He was remarkably healthy and energetic until the last few months of his life, when his health deteriorated quickly.  Before that decline, if you didn’t know better you might have thought he was twenty years younger than he really was.

Farrell was born February 9, 1925 in Winslow, Arizona, the first child and only boy of six children born to Walter Larcom Lewis and Nettie Ann Hatch.  Farrell’s childhood and school years were spent in Winslow, Taylor, Snowflake, and Holbrook, and he graduated from Holbrook High School in May 1943.  Farrell’s sister, Doreen, just one year behind him in school, was friends with Irene Whiting, and soon enough Farrell and Irene were high school sweethearts.

Farrell entered the Army shortly after high school graduation, and after basic training and engineering school he was assigned to the 281st Engineer Combat Battalion.  He was ordained an elder before leaving for the Army, and holding the priesthood of God was a sustaining influence to him.  He served in the European theater in the 3rd Army under General George Patton and took part in the Battle of the Bulge.  Many lives were saved through the dangerous work of detecting and disarming landmines, and his service earned him three battle stars.  At one point when returning home alive seemed unlikely, he had a vision of several little girls that he understood to be his daughters, and this vision was a ray of light and hope in dark times.  Farrell loved this great nation and the goodness and liberty that it stands for.

In March 1946 Farrell returned home to Taylor, and a few weeks later, Irene returned from BYU to Holbrook.  On June 24, 1946, Farrell and Irene were married in the Salt Lake temple.  These were wonderful and challenging times.  Hodgkin’s disease had befallen Irene’s mother, Armina, and she was in Los Angeles receiving treatment.  But she encouraged Farrell and Irene to not wait to marry, asking only that they visit her afterwards so she could see Irene in her wedding dress.  Armina passed away just a few weeks after Farrell and Irene were married.

Farrell and Irene brought six children into their family, five girls followed at last by one little boy.  They spent nearly twenty years in Arizona, including Holbrook, Wickenburg, Snowflake, and Phoenix.  Farrell worked in various endeavors, including banking, service stations, flight instruction, and charter flights and air evacuation.  At nearly age 40, Farrell decided to go to college, starting at BYU as a freshman.  He graduated in 1966 magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree, followed by a master’s degree, a Ph.D, and finally post-doctoral work in Pennsylvania.  Farrell then joined the BYU faculty and became administrative director of a mental health center.  Despite a late start, he had a long and successful career in mental health.

In about 2003 following Farrell’s retirement, the Lewis’s moved to Mesa, Arizona, enabling them to be closer to their five daughters.  In these retirement years, Irene still referred to Farrell as her boyfriend.  Her health began to decline, and on June 24, 2006, 60 years to the day after their wedding, she passed away rather suddenly with several family members nearby.  In the years following Irene’s death, Farrell missed Irene terribly, but he treasured time with family and friends, including cruises, Lewis Lunch Bunch (aka LLB), and other gatherings in the park.

Throughout all his years, Farrell served faithfully in various Church callings, including twice as a bishop.  His faith and trust in Jesus Christ and His restored gospel never faltered, and he leaves behind a powerful legacy of devotion to God, family, and country.

Farrell was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Doreen, Thelma Jean, and Mary, his beloved wife, Irene, daughter Peggy Kennedy, sons-in-law Steve Peterson (Lynette) and Robert Priest (Karen), and granddaughter Kari Holladay.  He is survived by five children, a foster daughter (Margaret Red Elk), twenty-one grandchildren, and numerous great grandchildren.  Farrell and Irene’s children are Lynette Peterson (Steve), Karen Priest (Robert), Peggy Kennedy (John), Kristine Holladay (Hal), DeeAnn Abaroa (Steve), and Steve Lewis.  

Due to the pandemic the family will hold a private funeral service with immediate family members only.  The funeral will be available to watch live on Saturday, August 15, at 9:00 am (Arizona time) through YouTube Live at this web address:

YouTube Live at this web address: https://youtu.be/bqvJoROxL80

The recording of the service will remain available afterwards through the same web address.  Since we can’t see many of you, we would welcome condolences, which can be posted below.  In lieu of flowers, consider making a donation to the charity of your choice in Farrell’s honor.

Sonja Pearl Phelps Benson, 81, passed away at her home in Gilbert, Arizona on August 5, 2020.  Sonja was born January 9, 1939 in Chewelah, Washington.  She moved with her parents, Charles Harry Phelps and Nadine Henderson, to Portland, Oregon where she was raised.  She eventually moved to Incline Village, Nevada (Lake Tahoe) where she lived until 1984.  She then moved to Arizona.  She and her husband, Carl E Benson, were married in January 2000.  She was very active in her church (LDS) and was active in her community theatre and dance clubs.  She enjoyed traveling, dancing, playing golf and tennis.  She loved giving service to others and spending time with her family.  Sonja is survived by her husband, Carl E. Benson, her two children, Mike Roberts (Tamara) and Melanie Little (Steven).  Her legacy will continue through her 13 grandchildren and 7.8 great grandchildren.  Sonja was preceded in death by two grandchildren-Courtney T. Roberts and Dalton J. Roberts.  Sonja touched many lives with her kind spirit and loving nature.  She will be missed by all.

Visitation will be at the LDS Church (5190 S. Recker Rd, Gilbert, AZ) from 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. on August 12, 2020.  A private funeral service will follow. For more information go to www.bunkerfuneral.com.

Oscar Carlton Shealey, of Mesa, Arizona; passed away on August 6, 2020.  He was born on March 8, 1935 in Ocilla, Georgia to Oscar Jackson Shealey and Lizzie Ruth Collins Shealey.  He was a US Air Force veteran and moved to Arizona from Florida in 2015.  He was a member of Eternal Life Lutheran Church in Mesa. 

He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers Olen Fraser, Robert Shealey, and Carol Shealey; sisters Annette Tanner, and Betty Jo Mock.  He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Phyllis Roberts Shealey, daughter Sheryl, son Jeff, daughter-in-law Kristin, sister Carolyn Sears, and several nieces and nephews.

Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel.

“Vance Gilbert Smith passed away Monday, August 3rd, 2020 at the age of 36 while deployed in Portland, Oregon.

Vance was born November 10, 1983 in Canon City, CO to Vance Gordon and Patricia Ann Smith. He is the second of twelve children. He did the majority of his growing up in Wisconsin. At the age of 19, he was a Missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints serving in Salt Lake City, Utah.

On April 14th, 2006 Vance married Heather Winsor in the Mesa, Arizona Temple. Together they have 4 children, Gemma Lorel (11), Vance Gabriel (10), Brynlee Eliza (6) and Charley Kate (2).

For 12 years Vance has served his Country as a United States Border Patrol Agent. He joined the U.S. Border Patrol in 2008 in the graduating class 796 and was stationed in Douglas, Arizona. Vance completed the selection course for the US Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue Unit (BORSTAR) graduating class XXI, May 2011. Vance became a full time Operator with the Tucson Sector Special Operations Detachment (SOD) serving there for five years. In 2016 he transferred to Yuma Sectors SOD where he served as an integral asset to both Yuma Sector and the Nations needs as called upon to do so frequently.

Through his work he received many certifications including but not limited to: Paramedic, Austere Medic, Swift Water Rescue Instructor, and EMT Instructor. As an Agent he had the opportunity to share his love of his work within his own community and abroad including Peru and Guatemala.

His love for the outdoors led to many hobbies including camping, mountain biking, hiking, shooting and spending time with his children dirt biking and hitting the lake on the weekends.

Vance put his heart into all that he did because of his love for his wife and children.

He is survived by his wife, Heather; children, Gemma Lorel, Vance Gabriel, Brynlee Eliza, and Charley Kate; parents, Vance G. and Patricia Ann Smith; siblings, Juli (Kelly) Mckendrick, Kimberly (Larry) Cox, Robyn (Luke) Phillips, Christie (Jeff) Chandler, Aaron (Cassie) Smith, Gregg (Taylor) Smith, Emma Smith, Kaydee (Rich) Perkins, Makenzie Smith, Janai Smith, and Mary Smith; Seven nieces and Six nephews; Grandparents, G. Vance and Elaine Smith.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Harvey and Gaila Ruth Robbins Gilbert.

Much gratitude is given to his fellow brothers and sisters in Green. HONOR FIRST!

Funeral Services Friday, August 14th, 2020, 10 a.m. Mesa, Arizona LDS Stake Center 1430 N. Grand, Mesa, AZ 85201. Friends and family may gather at the Stake Center for the viewing Thursday, August 13th, 2020, 6-8 p.m. and Friday morning one hour prior to funeral services. Interment in the City of Mesa Cemetery.,

In lieu of flowers, donations will be accepted via the family’s Venmo account for the continued financial support of his children. Contact Heather’s mother, Lorel, at 480-489-0762.”

Lance Tillman Willis, 74, passed away peacefully in his home in Mesa, Arizona, on August 8, 2020, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. Lance was born July 11, 1946 in Snowflake, Arizona, to Max and Amy Willis. His family lived in Mexico when Lance was 3 and 4 years old, where he learned to speak Spanish very well, a gift he’s used throughout his life. The family eventually moved to Mesa, where he attended Emerson Elementary, West Jr. High (Carson), and Mesa High School.

He began playing the clarinet in third grade and played until junior high, when his interests turned to football, which became a central part of his life. As a senior, he was a standout on Mesa High’s 1963 undefeated, state championship football team. This led to a football scholarship at Brigham Young University where he ultimately received both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mechanical engineering. He worked his way through school as a waiter at the Sundance Resort, where he had the opportunity to ride motorcycles with Robert Redford on occasion. The university is also where he met his wife of 51 years, Margie Ashton, from Provo, Utah. Lance and Margie eventually moved to Mesa, where they have lived for 48 years and raised their ten children, on Orange Street, the same neighborhood Lance grew up in.

Lance was an extremely active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and served in many ward and stake capacities over the years, including Young Men’s President, Bishop, and Young Men’s Softball Coach, which was the calling he loved the most. He had the opportunity to serve several missions for the Church as a young man in Argentina, and later with his wife, Margie, as a Mission President in Ecuador, as temple missionaries in Chile, and as the president of the missionary training center in Argentina. He cherished each of these experiences as he had the opportunity to associate with hundreds of wonderful missionaries.

He is survived by his wife, Margie Ashton Willis, and their ten children: Jessica (Jared) Seaman, Amie (Kyle) Johnson, David (Stacy) Willis, Melanie (Peter) Driggs, Melissa (Warren) Bodine, Michael Willis, Scott (Kellie) Willis, Steven (Shawnee) Willis, Kayleen (Spencer) Reed, Afton (Tyson) Oliver, their 40 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings Eric (Denise) Willis, Elizabeth (Brad) Barrett, Ronald (Lida) Willis, and Maxine (John) Pew. He was preceded in death by his parents Max and Amy Willis, and sister LeNae.

Lance had an incredible talent of making everyone he met feel loved and important.

A memorial will be held Friday, August 14, 2020, at the Wright House in Mesa, at 6:00pm. The service will be recorded and shared via YouTube the following day.

Theresa Ann Cantalice passed away July 31, 2020 at Banner Desert Hospital in Mesa, AZ.

Born March 16, 1962 in Trenton, New Jersey, she was the daughter of Judith Grace Driscoll and Anthony Felix Cantalice.

Teri attended St. Anthony High School in 1980 in Hamilton, New Jersey. In 1993, she, her partner Ed, and her children moved to Chandler Arizona where she obtained a position working with America West Airlines (currently American Airlines) as a Travel Agency Auditor. She was a dedicated employee having served over 25 years until the time of her death. She enjoyed travelling, spending time with her children and endlessly doting on her grandson, Bodhi.

Teri will be remembered for her high energy, generosity, tenacity, positivity and selflessness. Her family and friends could always rely on her and no one questioned her loyalty to them.

She is survived by her daughter Dana Hammerl and husband Daniel, son Edward Sportelli; grandson Bodhi Hammerl; Mother Judith Madli, Father Anthony Cantalice; Stepmother Irene Cantalice. She is also survived by her brothers, Anthony Cantalice and Mark Madli, sister Nicole Cantalice along with loving nieces and nephews.

James Warren Walker, of San Tan Valley, Arizona, passed away July 31, 2020 in Sheridan, Wyoming.  He was born October 27, 1933 in The Dalles, Oregon.  He enjoyed a successful career with AT&T, ultimately contributing in supervisory roles.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Arlene Walker and sister Darlene.

He is survived by his wife, Janice Ray Walker; his brother, Tom & (Pat) Walker, his children, Brad & (Corey) Walker, (Tim) & Natalie Golightly, Scott & (Julie) Walker, Jeff & (Tiffanie) Walker, his 13 grandchildren, 2 step grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and 1 step great-grandchild.  His interaction and attachment to his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren was of greatest importance to him in his life.  He was a “family man”.  His Church service over his lifetime is noteworthy. He loved playing basketball and this recreation served him well in many ways for 53 years.  He loved the mountains and fly fishing.  He loved to fix things and was fearless when it came to learning what needed to be learned and applying that learning and knowledge to anything in his path.  We love our husband, dad, grandpa, great-grandpa, brother and uncle. 

Visitation at Bunker Family Funeral University Chapel, 3529 E University Dr, Mesa, Arizona, on Friday, August 14, 2020, 6 to 8pm.  Memorial Services attended by extended family Saturday, August 15, 2020, 10am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1249 S 48th Street, Mesa.  The service will be broadcast via ZOOM at https://tinyurl.com/JWWFuneral

Burial at City of Mesa Cemetery, 1212 N Center Street, Mesa, Arizona.

Alta Mae (Crater) Wadsworth, 83, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away, peacefully on August 3, 2020, at her home of twenty years following a lingering illness.  Alta was born October 7, 1936, in Phoenix, Arizona, to Alfred William Crater and Edna Faye Graeber.  Alta attended Wilson Elementary and Phoenix Union High School class of 1955.  After graduation she worked as a long-distance telephone switchboard operator.  She and Ralph lived in California, Arizona, Idaho and Utah as they raised their children.  Alta stayed home with them most of their childhoods preferring to care for the home and family to being a career woman.  She had studied child care in school and was a gifted mother.  After the children were reared she went to work for Beneficial Life in Salt Lake City as a premiums receipt clerk.  She loved so much going to the company gatherings with some of the Apostles of the Church.  It was a wonderful experience for her and one that she talked about fondly long after retiring from Beneficial.

Alta is survived by her husband of sixty two years, Ralph, their five children: Mark (Jean) Wadsworth, Michael (Susan) Wadsworth, Julie Wadsworth, Joni (Michael) Williams, and Sandra (Michael) Wise, fourteen grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren.  She is also survived by her older sister, Evelyn Garcia, her younger sister, Joyce (Eugene) Curtis, two half-brothers, Michael Smith and David (Roxanne) Smith and stepfather, Louis Smith (Lee Sweetman).

Alta was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She was a woman of great faith and she had an abiding testimony of her Savior.  She testified often of her belief to her children.  Her favorite service calling was as a nursery teacher. She dearly loved the little children.  Alta was a loving person who was kind and generous.  She served whenever she was asked. Alta loved everyone, and everyone who knew her loved her.  She will be greatly missed!

ODE TO ALTA

(An Ode is a poem or expressive statement describing one’s virtues and characteristics.)

ALTA: The name itself exudes royalty, nobility, or an elevated station.

The name in Spanish means, “Highness”.

ODE to ALTA

Written and read by her admiring husband, who, after years of blindness, came to see her as the valued treasure she really is, a glistening gem, a diamond named, “ALTA”.

The crest of her head is adorned with golden strands like a gossamer tiara shimmering in the morning sunlight.

Her mind seeks the truth, always. It is steadfast in sharing light and knowledge and offers love to all. It exerts mental effort to gain wisdom and understanding, and to develop skills and talents.

Her face, lovely in features, glows with enthusiasm and is fascinated with the creations of life and the wonders of nature.

Her eyes, ever seeking and finding the good in others, sparkle with the light of Christ and the love of God.

Her ears, so sensitive to the sounds of uplifting music, the spoken word of God, the subtle yen of one pleading for a friendly visit or a word of comfort and encouragement.

Her mouth, full of favorable comments, praise, comfort, and encouragement. Because of her love for and interest in her fellow beings, questions come, in order for her to perceive a need she may address.

Her tongue, never prone to tell an untrue tale, speaks only that which is honest and true.

Her lips, so soft and sweet, kiss away the salty tears of a troubled child, and quick to soothe, comfort and chase away any semblance of fear and pain.  

Her neck, firm in directing her regal head to a straight road, turning neither to the right nor the left, but forward following the path of all righteousness.

Her shoulders, tho not broad, are strong and resolute in their determination to do good, minister, faithfully bare the burdens of life, serve, and follow the savior.

Her arms, always willing to lovingly hold and embrace, cuddle and enfold infants, babies, sweet little children, (her own or those of another mother), and to provide a comforting and encouraging hug to family member or friend alike.

Her hands, outstretched to any and all in need of help, to lighten loads, ease burdens, come early, stay late until the work is done. Hands teeming with talent for sewing, drawing, cooking and helping.

Her heart is noble and full of love for God and all His children. It beats a rhythm of relentless love for her children, and radiates an earnest and passionate regard for their welfare and wellbeing.

Her back has born the burden of daily labor which accompanied the carrying, bearing, nurturing and caring for the little ones, and the supporting, comforting, encouraging and enduring a mate.

Her bosom, soft and warm, provided comfort, security, peace and nourishment for the God-given infants entrusted to her care.

Her womb wherein were formed the essential components of mortal tabernacles to house God’s spirit children.

Her legs, the sturdy columns of flesh and bone, blood and sinew, supporting and fortifying the sacred Temple that embodies the spirit of God.

Her feet, shod with the desire to always tread the pathway leading to eternal life, and swift to overtake obedience and righteousness.

Her spirit that elicited shouts of joy from the angels of heaven as they celebrated her departure from their presence, to sojourn in the mortal realm, for they knew that she would be faithful here as she had been there. A spirit empowered with resolute determination to do what is right, and the dogged perseverance to pursue truth and righteousness. A spirit that above all else wishes to love God and obey his commandments.

Margaret Jean Clegg Webster passed away peacefully of natural causes in her home on August 4th, 2020. She was born October 8, 1928 in Vineyard, Utah, remained in Utah until her marriage to Nelson Webster in 1949 and spent the rest of their time in Arizona.

Preceding Jean and greeting her on the other side is her loving, eternal companion Nelson, along with 4 children, Sam, Bill, JoAnn, and Joyce.  She is survived by her daughters Jenell Williams Burnham (Robert), Lois Webster (Bill), Janet Webster, Judy Cotter (Ben) and Jillene Petersen (Kirt). She was blessed with 14 Grandchildren, and 37 great grandchildren. Jean devoted her life to her family, community, students and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Her legacy is one of service and unconditional love offering joy and happiness to others.  She had a way of making everyone feel important. The lives she touched were numerous and her memory will be felt forever. Due to Covid-19, funeral and viewing will be in accordance with the social distancing requirements from the State of Arizona and the church. We will respectfully be wearing masks. Those who wish to honor Jean are welcome to the viewing held Wednesday, August 12, 2020 from 6:00-8:00 pm at Bunkers Garden Chapel, 33 N Centennial Way, Mesa AZ 85201. Family viewing is from 5:00-6:00 pm the same day.

In following the guidelines and as we are limited, the funeral service attendance is by invitation only. The service will be held at 10:00 am Arizona time, Thursday, August 13, 2020.  A viewing will be held from 9-9:45 for those attending the service.

Funeral will be broadcast on Zoom for anyone desiring to join us.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89912126649?pwd=Q21lQzhpNWRUTmV5eWlIeG03SmdRUT09

Meeting ID: 899 1212 6649

Passcode: 268352

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdRthvYXmq

Graveside service will follow where Jean will be laid to rest at the side of her husband, Nelson at the Mesa City Cemetery, 1212 North Center St, Mesa 85201

https://bunkerfuneral.com

Please comment on Bunker’s website as we won’t have a sign-in book for Zoom and would love to know you were with us. Feel free to add photos of her.

Douglas Richard Bowers, born June 30th 1969, was called home Monday, August 3rd, 2020.  

He was born to Louis James and Thelda Kay Bowers in Salt Lake City, Utah.  

He enjoyed traveling with his wife, hanging out at his cabin, and his yearly trips to Lake Powell.  Doug’s wild and goofy personality attracted many people over the years.  His good hearted nature led to many long lasting relationships that he valued til the day he died.

He served in many capacities in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.  Some of his favorite callings were in the Boy Scouts, Elder’s Quorum and as Young Men’s President.

He started his company from the ground up and was very successful. Building his own company allowed him to work alongside his boys, which was his ultimate goal and dream.  But his proudest achievement was his family.  

Doug’s first marriage blessed him with his first son, Matthew. 

In 1996, he met and married the love of his life, Dina Dodenbier, they were sealed in the Bountiful Temple on August 29th, 1998.  Together they had four additional boys.

Doug is survived by his wife Dina, his sons Matthew and his wife Becki and grandson Emmett; Dallin and his wife Morgan and soon to be granddaughter; Spencer, Blake and Hunter. His mother Thelda Bowers, Sister Susan and her husband Glenn; Brother Steven and his wife Marsha; Ginger and her husband Nate; Janet and her husband Chris; and his Brother Jared and his wife Kirstie. He is preceded in death by his father, Louis James Bowers III, and his brother Michael.

Doug leaves behind a hole in the hearts of all who knew him, his memory will not be forgotten.

Funeral services are Wednesday, August 12th, 2020, at 10:00 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Church Building located at 6942 E. Brown Rd., Mesa, AZ  85207. There will be a Viewing on Tuesday evening, August 11^th, 2020, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Bunker’s Funeral Home located at 3529 E. University Dr. Mesa, AZ  85213. Due to social distancing restrictions, we are asking that church family and close acquaintances come at 6:00 pm. and work affiliated friends come at 7:00 pm. Thank you for understanding.

Due to Covid 19, attendance is only allowing a limited number to attend the Funeral Service, but will be broadcasted live. Details will be posted at a later date.

Daniel Logan Redd  passed from this world on August 4, 2020 at the age of 36.  He was preceded in death by his grandparents George and Ercelle Redd and Ervin and Veda Saline.  He is survived by his parents Walt and Pam, siblings Jenny Miner (Andrew), Dustin Redd (Cheeri), James Redd (Crystal) and Jordan Redd (Kinsey) and many nieces and nephews.  He attended school in Mesa and graduated from Mesa High in 2002.  He graduated from MCC in 2011.  He loved music and played in a band.  Guitar was his favorite but he drummed also.  He was an extraordinary skate boarder and spent many hours perfecting his moves.  He worked in the IT field and loved building and tearing computers apart. He is loved and will be missed by all of us. Private family services will be Thursday, August 13.  He will be interred at Mesa Cemetary.

Glendene’s hard work ethic, her caring nature, and her love of family are some of the many traits that characterized this amazing and loving woman.  She was brought into this world by her parents Glen Wisdom & Mary Pearson Wisdom on February 24, 1935 in Los Angeles, Ca  where they lived.  She was joined by 3 siblings  Carol, Velma, Don and later Myrla and Cathy joined the family.  

Several years into her adult life she met and married Rudy Rubalcaba and began their lives, remaining in Pico Rivera California.  Where they had 4 Children, Danny, Denise, Thomas and Kellie.  She worked at Bethlehem Steele Company as a key punch operator.  In 1970 her marriage to Rudy had ended and she and the children moved to Tempe, AZ.  

A Few years later she met Ross Smith, They were married and joined two families together adding 7 more children.  They remained in Tempe for 13 years and when the kids were all grown up, they built a beautiful home in Gold Canyon where the family had many gatherings.  During this time Glendene worked as a head secretary for Allied Signal Aerospace Engineering, Now HoneyWell.  Glendene and Ross were married for 32 years but decided to part ways in 2004.  

Glendene was blessed with 11 Grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and 3 great Great grandchildren who all called her Grandma G.

Glendene had a love of the arts and she committed her retirement time to ASU Gammage and the Tempe center of the arts, where she enjoyed being a hospitality host of events.  She was surrounded by many talented and up and coming actors.  She was very proud of her work and was very popular in the performing arts world.  

Her life touched so many people,  and gave us many memories.  We all will miss her! 

Sherrill Ann Benzley Funk, 79 passed away after a long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease and Covid-19 on August 1, 2020 in Gilbert, Arizona.  Sherrill was the first daughter of James and Ione Benzley.  Two sisters came along later, Betty Brown and Val Stupar, each six years apart.  Sherrill was raised in Southern California and attended San Gabriel High School.  It was here when she developed her love of art, creativity and design.  She was also entering and winning beauty pageants.  As luck would have it, one year she designed and won a float competition for the Rose Bowl and was also crowned Miss San Gabriel.  She then got to ride as a queen on a float she had designed herself in Pasadena’s Rose Bowl Parade.  Upon graduation in 1958, Sherrill attended Brigham Young University and was crowned a member of the Homecoming Royalty.   While at BYU, she joined the Arizona club, where she met her future husband, Herman Funk.  They married in the Los Angeles Temple in 1962 and raised six children.  Sherrill was an elementary school teacher prior to having her children, and then resumed teaching at Powell Junior High for many years later.  She was a life-long active and devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  Herm and Sherrill served a mission for the LDS Church in Porto Alegre, Brazil in 2003-2005.  She loved crafts, sewing, quilting, scrapbooking, and art.  She loved to read and wrote hundreds of book reviews.  She served at the Church Humanitarian Center.  She loved and doted on her grandchildren and great grandchildren.  Her Miller Ward walking friends became her devoted best friends and companions.  Sherrill was preceded in death by her husband, Herm, and  granddaughter Clare.  Surviving Sherrill are her children, Chris (Emily) Funk, Lorie (Todd) Tucker, Gary (Amy) Funk, Julie (Mike) Huish, David (Jessica) Funk,  Andy (Lisa) Funk, 25 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.  The funeral service will be in accordance with the social distance guidelines of Arizona for Covid-19 on Thursday August 6, 2020.  For more information on those details contact lorie.tucker@gmail.com .   A link to watch the funeral at home, will also be available upon request

*Those attending the private services to honor Velvalee will be required to wear a facemask and adhere to physical distancing guidelines at the mandate of the Governor and Mayor. Services can be viewed via live broadcast at the following link Click below on the italicized statement:

Velvalee Cluff Service Broadcast

Velvalee Cluff was called home on July 31st, 2020 in Mesa, AZ. She is preceded in death by her parents Elmer and Eva as well as her Sister Beatrice Still. She is survived by her husband Wayne, her son Rick and daughter in law Terri, her son Mark and daughter in law Elizabeth and her son Greg. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Erica Cluff, Ryan Cluff, Josh Cluff, Marisa Heckman, Emily Cluff, and David Cluff as well as her 2 great-grandchildren Keaton and Braedon.

Velvalee led an active life that included being of service to her family, many friends, and to her church. She found joy in making things beautiful, she was an incredible artist and a talented painter, sewer, and decorator. Her artistic ability even found a home in the annual Easter pageant that was held at the Mesa Temple grounds, where you can see her work displayed on the stage in the props that were used as well as the some of the flags that were sewn. She was always doing something for somebody else, whether it was for her kids, her grandkids, her great-grandkids or her friends, she was always there for whenever a helping hand was needed. She was beautiful inside and out and was always an example to her family. She had an abiding testimony in her Savior and would always be found every morning dedicating her time to studying her scriptures and was ever prayerful in her daily life.  The love she had for her family was immeasurable, she has touched each one of us in her own special way and we are all better because of it. We will miss her every day.

Due to the pandemic that is happening,  the family will be having a private memorial service at this time. Please feel free to send condolences or share your memories of her.  for more information please visit www.bunkerfuneral.com. 

Glen Charles Griffin, 85, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2020 in Mesa, Arizona. He was born to Benjamin and Marian Griffin in Asnieres, France on August 2, 1934. He grew up with two loving sisters: Janet Chamberlain (Wayne) and Lois Jensen (Alan). While doing his preceptorship as a young doctor-to-be in Liberty, Texas he met a delightful nurse, Mary Ella Page. They married in 1957 and raised 6 children: Janelle Selover (Robert), Joan Watson, Mark Griffin, Gary Griffin, Jill Shook, and Greg Griffin (Carl Kamb). He graduated from the University of Texas as a Doctor of Medicine. As a Captain in the Army he served at Martin Army Hospital, Fort Benning, Georgia before setting up a private pediatric practice in Columbus, Georgia. During this time he served as the bishop of the Columbus 2^nd Ward in the Atlanta Stake. Glen moved the family to Bountiful, Utah where he set up a one-of-a-kind drive-in medical office. Patients could park and come in to their own exam room, set up like a living room, without going into a waiting room. It was his privilege to serve the wonderful families in the Bountiful area. Glen was appointed as a Consultant for Health Services for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and would sit at the side of the stand to provide medical coverage at General Conference. After retiring from his pediatrics practice Glen became the Editor-in-Chief at Postgraduate Medicine. He was an author and published many books including You Were Smaller than a Dot. He co-authored with Dr. Bill Castelli, Good Fat, Bad Fat: How to Lower Your Cholesterol & Beat the Odds of a Heart Attack. Later he served as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Collegium Aesculapium, the medical journal for doctors in the Church. He also wrote a syndicated column called Child Care that appeared in many newspapers nationwide. Glen was the founder of the CAMIE AWARDS, to encourage production and awareness of outstanding, uplifting and entertaining motion pictures with positive role models. CAMIE is the acronym for Character And Morality In Entertainment. Glen and Mary Ella served a medical mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Asia based in the Singapore Mission from April 2001 – September 2002. Together they traveled and served in Cambodia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mongolia, Singapore and Thailand. One of the highlights of their mission was teaching the gospel to their miracle girl from China, Xialian, and others. Glen loved doctoring his patients, writing, inventing, designing and building homes, watching CAMIE approved movies, and BYU football. Most of all he loved his family. He is preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Marian and his loving wife, Mary Ella. Their legacy will be continued through their 6 children and their 16 grandchildren: Jeff, Holly, Heidi, Audrey, Jason, Ty, Michael, Spencer, Brian, Emily, Kelsey, Heather, TJ, Rainey, Kaelin and Riane, and 21 great grandchildren: Marley, Hendrix, Rory, Jacob, Carter, Olivia, Derek, Grant, Maddie, Lacey, Blake, Leah, Ben, Ella, Claire, Logan, Calvin, Beckham, Russell, Mila, and Dakota. Funeral services are Thursday, August 6, 2020 at 4:00 p.m., preceded by a visitation from 3:30 p.m., with the family prayer at 3:45 at the Bunker’s University Chapel, 3529 East University Drive, Mesa, Arizona 85213. (Due to COVID-19 restrictions service is limited to family only. Please request an invite to the Facebook Group called Grandad Griffin’s Live Funeral and you will be added where a live Facebook funeral stream will begin at 3:30 p.m. on Thursday. After the live stream concludes a link will then be available in the group to watch at a later time.) Interment will be Friday, August 7, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. at National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 23029 North Cave Creek Road, Phoenix, Arizona 85024. (Due to COVID-19 restrictions burial is by invitation only.) The family wishes to thank the wonderful staff, caregivers, med techs, chaplains, nurses and doctors at Emerald Groves Central, ATLAS Medical and THEMA Hospice for taking such loving care of our Dad, Dr. Glen. Bunker’s University Chapel handled the arrangements.