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Mary was a rock in our lives.  She will be dearly missed.

Mary had a passion for horses and always dreamed of having her own ranch.  She always said that she was a cowgirl at heart.  In her final years she loved going on trips with her son Paul to rodeos, festivals, horse rescues, and Payson, her favorite place.

She made a lasting impression on everyone she met, especially those close to her.  She was a proud Alumni of the University of Arizona, where she obtained her first Bachelor’s degree, and played the saxophone with the U of A marching band in the very first Super Bowl.

She spent most of her adult life working as a histotechnologist and at the age of 63 obtained a second Bachelor’s degree in laboratory technology from Weber State University and subsequently became an online professor for Weber State.

She is preceded in death by Helen Catherine Hawse (Mother), Oren Cornelius Hawse (Father), Catherine Martin (Grandmother), and Tom Hawse (Brother).

She is survived by her sister Catherine Hawse; children Paul Heinzel, Shannon Murdock, Audra Heinzel (Lance), and Ryan Heinzel (Rachel); grandchildren Kannen Murdock (Emma), Chelsea Murdock, Hannah Heinzel, and John Heinzel; and great grandchild Aubrey Murdock.

The family would like to thank American Orchards, Trask Mobile Medical and Always Present Hospice for the outstanding care and love that they provided for Mary during her time with them.

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

Elton Earl Ray, (77) passed away peacefully at his home in Mesa, surrounded in love by family, on December 7, 2024.

Elton was born on July 22, 1947 in Mesa, Arizona to Richard Hyrum Ray and LaVon McCleve Ray.

He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and attended the Mesa Miramar Ward.  He loved his time serving as an ordinance worker in the Mesa Arizona Temple.  By this time in his life his testimony had grown and his love for our Savior was sure.

Elton grew up on the family dairy farm in NE Mesa with his 5 siblings.  He attended Westwood High School and graduated in 1965.  His greatest love was playing football for Coach Ford, driving his 1957 Chevy, and riding his motorcycle.  He was a prankster all his life, which often got him into some not so desirable situations.  He loved to laugh and make others laugh, too.  He was kind and funny and but did not like showing others his very tender feelings.  He did not like crying in the Lassie TV programs and would leave the room; partly because he was sensitive but mostly because he loved dogs.

After graduating from high school, he joined the Air Force and traveled around the world.  During his time in the service, he married Marsha Collins and their first child, Camra, was born in Germany.  He was a weapons specialist with nuclear training and received many awards, one of which was an Expert Marksmanship Ribbon.

After leaving the military he moved to Utah where his other 4 children were born.

He furthered his career by gaining a degree in computer programming and working for the IRS.  He later settled in Mesa and Texas and then back to Mesa where he retired from the IRS.

He loved the Minnesota Vikings, bowling, bingo, karaoke, but mostly, he loved his family.  His family meant everything to him.  He lived life to the fullest and enjoyed making memories on his many road trips to visit his kids.

Elton was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and LaVon Ray, his brothers David and Ken Ray, and his sister, Jean Ray.  He is survived his children, Cami LaToutette (Scott), Staci Scott (Tom), Holly Newsome (Rick), Pete (Chantelle), and Erin Lewis (Brian).  His grandchildren: Callie (Josh), Robert, Michelle, AJ, Mike (Krysta), Zach (Katherine), Tevin (Ally), Kiersten (Trey), Ben, Jayden (Brandt), Alex, Skyler, Hunter, Aaren, Ryan, Sydney (Azan), Gabriel, Nathaniel, Garrett, Hailey, Lauren (Alec), Warren, Brisea, Truenne.  His great grandchildren: Charlette, Jase, Josh, Sophie, Mia, Zayden, Elijah, Maya, Vito, Ezra, and Greyson.  His siblings Rivon Woolf (Ed) and Dorothy Shupe (Ivan), and many nieces and nephews, some of whom were like grandchildren to him.

There will be a celebration of his life on April 12, 2025, at his home in Mesa.  He will be laid to rest on the family homestead under his tree where he can watch the children play.

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

Walter Randolph Austin, born July 12, 1950, in Oak Park, IL, USA, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2025. He was a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and found great joy in serving in various roles within the Church. He and Evelyn served together as emergency preparedness specialists, and wrote the church history books, always including photos of the church’s special events. They served a Family History church service mission together, and were so sweet to all the young people at the church, including attending their youth basketball games, Eagle Scout awards nights, missionary farewells, wedding receptions, and more. On his own, Walt served and completed his work earlier this year as a temple ordinance worker, which he really loved, and as the ward and stake membership clerk. He also sang with the Ward and Stake Choirs. His strong faith and dedication to service were an inspiration to all who knew him. He was a distinguished Network Engineer in the Information Technology, Aerospace, and Telecommunications Industries. He held a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, AZ. He was employed at Honeywell, where he applied his training to the installation of fiiber optics, and later worked as a Water Specialist for the Arizona Department of Water Resources. Beyond his professional achievements, he enjoyed piloting small aircraft, and took classes in jewelry making. He and Evelyn were inseparable. They did everything together before her passing in 2019. They loved to travel to the Hawaiian islands, particularly Kauai’i, and upon Walt’s retirement, painstakingly restored the vintage VW Bug that was brought to the United States from Paris, France, by his late wife Evelyn’s Uncle Jack. He was easy going, kind hearted, extremely generous, and a good friend to many. He will be dearly missed.

Walter was preceded in death by his parents,  his wife Evelyn Bott Austin, Leonard Edmund and Dorothy Fitz Austin, his wife Evelyn Bott Austin and sister-in-law Mary Bott. He leaves behind a loving family to cherish his memory, including his brother-in-law Victor Wayne Bott Jr., his nieces Cynthia (Brent) Kelley and Suzanne (Scott) Gittins; Great nieces and nephews: Lexi (Michael), Jacob (Katie), Bailey, Sophie, Gabby and Grace and great great niece, Addy.

We invite all those who knew and loved Walter to leave their memories and upload photos to his memorial page. As we celebrate the life of Walter Austin, let us remember his bright spirit, his unwavering faith, and his dedication to service. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Funeral Service will be held Friday, March 7, 2025 at 1:30pm at Myers Mortuary Chapel 205 South 100 East, Brigham City, UT. Interment will follow in the Brigham City Cemetery.

Dolores Jeanne Scheel passed away on February 20, 2025, at the age of 95 in Chandler, AZ. She was born on September 7, 1929, in Grand Island, NE and lived a life filled with love, faith, and service.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Max Duane Scheel; her parents, George and Cheryl Smith; her brother, Duane Smith; her son-in-law, Rodney Kent Chapman; and her grandson, Jared Duane Scheel. She is survived by her children, Cheryl (Rich) Alvord, Debbie (Randy) Aagaard, and Doug (Camille) Scheel. Grandchildren-15, Great Grandchildren-37, Great-Great Grandchildren-12.

Dolores and Max shared a remarkable life together for 70 years. They embraced adventure and dedicated themselves to service, retiring early to serve five missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Their grandchildren fondly remember them not for traditional work but for the warmth of Dolores’ homemade chocolate candy; and Max’s meticulous decorating and picture hanging in their homes. Throughout their marriage, they lived in various places to remain close to family, always prioritizing their loved ones.

Her legacy of love and devotion will be cherished by all who knew her. We take comfort in knowing that she and Max are reunited once more.

Graveside Services:

March 5, 2025, 1:00 PM

Valley View Memorial

4335 West 4100 South: West Valley City, UT 84120

Memorial Service:

March 9, 2025, 3:00 PM

Village at Ocotillo

990 West Ocotillo RD: Chandler, AZ 85248

We appreciate the assistance of the staff at The Village at Ocotillo and Hospice.

We recognize the assistance of Bunker Family Funeral Homes in Mesa, AZ and Jenkins Soffe Funeral Chapels South Jordan UT.

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

Mark Alan Fish, born on May 30, 1954, was called home to be with our Father in Heaven on February 16, 2025.

Mark is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 47 years, Debra K. Fish, and their grown children Shawna, Kami, Jonathan, and Jarrod followed by 8 grandchildren.

He now rejoices in Heaven alongside his daughter Brigitta. He is also survived by his brother, Tom Fish.

A man of deep faith and unwavering love for his family, Mark dedicated his life to sharing the gift of music. As a talented music teacher, he inspired countless students through piano instruction and choir direction, leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts of those he taught. His sense of humor brought joy to many, and he found great companionship in the beloved dogs that were part of his family over the years.

Mark’s life was a testament to faith, love, and devotion.

May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him as they take solace in knowing he rests in eternal peace.

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

Linda Louise Batt was born November 10, 1949, to Stephen and Juanita Svedi in New Kensington, PA. As a teenager, her family moved to Kailua, HI on the island of Oahu where she graduated from Kailua High School and the former Church College of Hawaii (now called Brigham Young University Hawaii). She married her late husband, Steven Batt, and they were sealed in the Laie Hawaii Temple on August 12, 1972. After their first child was born, they moved to San Diego, CA in 1975 and had 3 more children. In 1987, they moved to Mesa, AZ where she worked at Whittier Elementary School as a computer lab teacher and reading specialist for many years before retiring. She is survived by her four children, Paul Batt, Grant Batt, Saralyn Morales, and Kristiann Batt and their families, including 7 grandchildren whom she adored.

Funeral Services are Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 10:30am. Aloha attire encouraged.
LDS Beverly Ward Building
1054 West 2nd Pl.
Mesa, AZ 85201

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

Keitha Murray, 75, passed away on February 25, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel (480.964.8686).

For those unable to attend the service in person, you will be able view the recorded service with this link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lBC4crbSyt5IBjqRR25htZjYNHu4QiYi/view?usp=drivesdk

Catherine Smith Groscost, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2025, in Mesa, Arizona, surrounded by her loving family.  Catherine was born on January 19, 1938, in Visalia, California, to Albert Aikens and Glenden (Nielsen) Smith.

Catherine’s early years were filled with adventure as she moved frequently due to her father’s military service.  As an “army brat” Catherine lived in various places, including California, Utah, Oklahoma, Brooklyn, New York (where she forged a lifelong friendship with her best friend Marge Anderson), and Japan (where she hiked Mt Fuji with her brother and father).  When she was young, she loved that she lived in Utah near her numerous cousins who were her best playmates and dear friends.  She gained a younger brother when she was 8 years old, and adored “Nicky” (Nicholas Albert Smith) whom she had a treasured relationship with.  Catherine loved music and in her teen years trained to be a concert pianist.

Her life took a different path though and Catherine graduated from Brigham Young University with a double major in early childhood education and child development, and a minor in chemistry.  While at college, Catherine married Charles Kenneth Groscost (Ken) in the Salt Lake Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.   After graduation, they lived in Tooele, Utah, and her parent’s ranch near Kennewick, Washington, before settling in Mesa, Arizona in 1964.  Catherine and Ken built a wonderful life in Mesa full of family, friends, and service in their church and community.  She was a devout member of Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and served as a stake Relief Society President, ward Relief Society President, ward Young Women’s President, ward Primary President, ward missionary, and other callings.

Catherine was a business owner who started and ran Sunshine Preschool in Mesa for 16 years.  She was loved, and was beloved by, all those she taught, and until her death could recognize many adults that were her “Sunshine Children” and call them by name.

Catherine’s adventurous spirit continued into adulthood.  Alongside Ken, she served a mission in Kirtland, Ohio, where they dedicated themselves to their faith and community.  Their journey together led them to create their dream home in Port Townsend, Washington, where they spent their golden years, surrounded by love, laughter, kayaking, hiking, clam bakes, and sharing it all with those they loved.

Catherine was a devoted mother to five children and a proud grandmother to 16 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren (and counting).  She is survived by her three daughters, Kristen (Joel) Babbitt (Xander, James, Anna, Joseph), Amy Groscost, and Elizabeth Carroll (Jill, Nathan, Leighton, Matthew, Catherine), her daughter-in-law, Dana Ipsen Groscost (Chad, Logan, Reagan, Gunnar, Griffin, Jesse), Greg’s daughter Noelle, sister-in-law Mary Ann (Free) Smith, and many beloved nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents Albert and Glenden, husband Ken, sons Gregrey and Jeffrey Groscost, and brother Nick.

A woman of profound generosity, compassion, and unwavering faith in Jesus Christ, Catherine’s legacy will endure in the hearts of all who knew her.  She touched countless lives with her kindness and warmth, instilling values of love and faith in her family.

Catherine Groscost will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever remain a guiding light for her family and friends.  As we honor her memory, we celebrate a life rich in love, adventure, and unwavering faith that continues to inspire those she leaves behind.

A funeral service will be held on March 1^st, 2025 at 12:30 pm with a viewing preceding, from 11:30am-12:15pm, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints located at 1415 E Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ, 85204.  A visitation will be held the previous evening on February 28^th, 2025 from 6:00-8:00 pm at Bunker University Chapel, located at 3529 E University Dr Mesa, AZ, 85204.

Internment at the City of Mesa Cemetery will follow immediately after the funeral.

For those unable to attend the service in person, you will be able view the recorded service with this link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lBC4crbSyt5IBjqRR25htZjYNHu4QiYi/view?usp=drivesdk

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

Robert (Bob) Snair, 98, passed away in Scottsdale, Arizona after a short illness. He married his beloved Betty (Rainey), in 1953. They were married 64 years before Betty passed.

He is survived by his four children, Stephanie Vredenburgh (Larry); Diana Thomas (Tim); Penny Isik (Yilmaz); and Eric Snair (Kristen) and sister Jean (Snair) Horn. His legacy continues with grandchildren Steven, Anna, Carolyn, Rachel, Molly, Veronica, Derek, Lauren and Emme as well as great grandchildren Micah and Emmett.

Bob was born in Grenola, Kansas and spent his early years on a farm. Later his family moved to Sedan, Kansas where he attended high school. During WWII he served in the army in Europe. He graduated from the University of Kansas with a journalism degree. During his long career he was a photographer, reporter and managing editor at the Kansas City Kansan. He was publisher of the Brookings (SD) Daily Register and then purchased his own paper, The St. James Leader Journal in Missouri. Bob and Betty retired to Arizona in 1990.

Bob was known for being friendly, open to hearing other’s opinions and genuinely interested in people.   Those qualities and a belief in concise sentences, good grammar and a love of words served him as a journalist.  He was a delightful storyteller to his children but most importantly a loving and deeply loved father.

We were fortunate to have him in our lives for so long. He is deeply missed.

Any grammatical errors in this obituary are not the fault of the deceased.

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

For those unable to attend the service in person, the service will be broadcast here: https://www.youtube.com/live/E0q5ATD92K8

Carolyn Woodruff, 76, of Gilbert, Arizona, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on February 21, 2025. Born in the middle of winter on August 18, 1948, in Kyogle, New South Wales, Australia, Carolyn’s life was a beautiful symphony of music, family, and love.

A passionate pianist and dedicated teacher, Carolyn shared her love for music with countless students over the years, many of whom went on to become piano teachers themselves and accompanists. Carolyn also played a significant role in her church, frequently accompanying music at services, especially in primary, and offering her musical talents to uplift others. Her devotion to music was not just a hobby, but a lifelong calling that shaped her interactions with the world.

Above all, Carolyn cherished her family and the love of the gospel of Jesus Christ. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and her greatest joy came from being surrounded by her loved ones. Carolyn’s home in Gilbert, Arizona, was her personal paradise—where she reveled in the warm sunshine and created a haven for Allen and herself, in which the family loved. Carolyn opened their home to anyone who needed refuge in a time of need in their lives. Her nurturing spirit, wisdom, and love will continue to guide her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, leaving a lasting legacy that will carry on for generations.

Carolyn is survived by her loving husband Allen, her children Kent (Brooke and Hayden and their children Gideon and Witten, Baylie, Chanel and her daughter Harlow), Jennifer spouse Daniel (Matthew, Wyatt), Robert spouse Lynn (Riley, Kayden), Steven spouse Michelle (Ethan, Todd), Richard spouse Holly,  (Jacob, Abby,  Laura (Zaiden), Candace, Kenya, Kira, Caleb, Jonathan spouse Tiara, Marie spouse Taylor, Arabeth, Ella, Emily, Enoch) and many friends who were touched by her kindness and generosity. She was predeceased by her parents Robert and Marjorie Sackley.

Carolyn’s love for music, her devotion to her family, her faith in Christ, and her warm, compassionate heart will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. While she will be deeply missed, her memory will continue to inspire and uplift everyone whose life she touched.

A memorial service to honor Carolyn’s life will be held on March 1, 2025, viewing at 1:00pm, service at 2:00pm at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel, located at 4629 East Guadalupe Road, Gilbert, Arizona.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to BYU Pathway Worldwide in her memory.

For those who would still like to send flowers please send them to funeral home by February 28, 2025 at 3:00pm.

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

Levi Robert Richmond passed away on Saturday, February 8th, 2025, in Mesa, Arizona, where he had lived for the past 27 years.

Levi was born in Michigan City, Indiana on July 17, 1930. He was the fifth of six children born to John and Anna Richmond. Levi is preceded by his siblings Edward, Nettie (Koepke), Virginia (Nauyokas), Agnes (Lee), James and half sister Judith Raska. Levi grew up during the Depression era moving between Indiana and Minnesota. He was drafted into the US Army and served in Europe as a Military Police Corporal. Upon completing service, Levi returned to his birthplace and was hired by Wayne Heating & Air Conditioning as a Sheet Metal worker. He joined the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART) Union in 1954. Levi was a proud union member for over 70 years.

Levi was married to his first wife Dolores (Brandmuehl) Richmond in 1953. Their son Michael was born on July 10th, 1960. Premature, he died seven days after childbirth. Dolores died on January 12th, 1961. In 1962, Levi married Mildred (Maxey) Richmond. They built a house in Michigan City, Indiana using journeyman friends where they raised three children, a daughter, Cathy (Miller), and two sons – Thomas, and William Richmond. Levi enjoyed bowling and received numerous individual and team trophies. In 1992, Levi and Millie retired and moved to Mesa, Arizona. They were avid Square Dancers and traveled the country performing with their friends. Their marriage of 39 years ended upon her death in 2001. In 2002, Levi married Traci (Perkins) Richmond. Traci died in 2024 after being married to Levi for 21 years.

Levi has three surviving children, Cathy (Samuel) Miller, Thomas (Diane) Richmond, and William (Linda) Richmond.

Levi’s legacy is 10 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

Listing of Cathy’s children:
Samuel Miller (Natalia Velez)
Timothy Miller
Amy Miller (Troy Schuck)
Kymberlyn (Sean) Izquierdo
Jaclyn (Ryan) Newell
Jessica Miller (Jose Betancourt)

Listing of Thomas’s children:
Nicholas Richmond
Amanda Richmond
Rebecca Richmond
Alexander Richmond

A Visitation and Remembrance will be on Saturday, February 22nd, at 2 pm at the Bunker Family Funeral Chapel, 33 North Centennial Way, Mesa, Arizona, 85201. There will be Graveside Burial on Tuesday, February 25th, at 10 am, at Mesa Cemetery 1212 North Center Street, Mesa, Arizona 85201.

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

Ellen Marie Barlow Lake.   1935-2025.  Ellen “Marie” Barlow Lake passed away peacefully in Phoenix, Arizona, on February 18, 2025, exactly fifteen years to the day, and in the same home, where her beloved husband Jack passed away.   Marie was born on June 6, 1935, in Salt Lake City Utah to Hubert Rampton Barlow and Ethyl Mary Watkins Barlow, with her older brother Hubert Rampton Barlow, Jr. (Marilyn).

Marie graduated from East High School in Salt Lake City, Utah in 1953, where Victory Jory selected her as East High’s “most photogenic” girl.  She later attended, and graduated from the University of Utah, where she studied Elementary Education, pledged and actively supported the Phi Beta Phi sorority, and was chosen as the Dixie Classic Basketball Tournament Queen at Raleigh, North Carolina, in 1956.  Following graduation, Marie taught at Whittier and Emerson elementary schools in Salt Lake City.   Marie married Jack Smith Lake in the Salt Lake Temple on August 10, 1958.

In 1962,  Marie and Jack moved to Phoenix, Arizona to build their marriage, lives and family:  Greg (Lisa), Allison (Mike), Holly (Gail), Sean (Amy), and Jenny (Dan).  Marie cherished her family and treasured her friends.  Growing up for a while in her grandparents’ home, in the Garden Park Ward, she became a sister and daughter to her cousins, aunts and uncles.   The friends she made in high school, college and in Phoenix, remain her friends forever; even until her last mortal days she consistently and lovingly cared for all of them.

Marie is grandma to eighteen grandchildren, and thirty-four great grandchildren.   She adored each, and showered them with endless attention and love; she prayed for them individually by name each night. She was without guile, and was deeply loved by each of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

From 1991 to 1994, Marie and Jack served as the Mission Leaders of the Canada, Calgary Mission of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.    Hundreds of young missionaries, young men and women, came into the orbit of Marie’s love.   Marie served faithfully in the Church, in numerous callings in the Primary, Young Women, and Relief Society.    But, above all else, Marie is a disciple of Jesus Christ.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 5:00pm to 7:00pm at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Days Saints located at 4225 N. 56th St., Phoenix, Arizona. Another viewing will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Larkin, 260 E. South Temple, Salt Lake City, from 10:00am to 12:00 Noon, and then a 12:30 Graveside Service at the Salt Lake City Cemetery (380 N., 1150 E.).

Funeral arrangements are handled by Bunker’s Garden Chapel in Mesa and Larkin in Salt Lake City.

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

Monte Gene Smith, 84 passed away in the early morning hours of February 13, 2025, just in time to see the sunrise. He was born to Gordon Randall Smith and Melissa Mary Payne Smith in Bridgeport, Nebraska on December 9, 1940.

Monte was a bright and curious child who developed an interest in sports. In high school, Monte was a star performer in football and basketball, chosen co-captain of the football team and selected as The Girl’s Club “Pal,” as well as crowned prom King his senior year. His athleticism earned him a scholarship to Scottsbluff College, where he majored in architecture and electrical engineering, and lettered in basketball.

In May of 1960, his freshman year of college, Monte endured a major setback. At 19 years old, he was blinded in a college chemistry lab explosion. He refused to let this life-altering experience defeat or define him. Not long after he was blinded, Monte was voted student body president at the college. Following his sophomore year, he transferred to Brigham Young University and during the 1962-1963 school year, the campus co-eds voted him “Most Preferred Man.”

While in his graduate program, he met a cute and bubbly girl, Elaine Peterson, from Atlanta, Georgia who became the student secretary for him and 9 other graduate teaching assistants. They dated, fell in love and were married December 15, 1967, in the Salt Lake Temple and following their wedding, Thatcher Arizona became their home as Monte began his teaching career at Eastern Arizona College. Several years after living in Thatcher, they welcomed two daughters, Stephanie and Holly.

Monte taught Sociology for 31 years at EAC until he retired in 1998. He had the opportunity to touch the lives of over 10,000 students in his impactful and meaningful career. After retirement, Monte and Elaine moved to Gilbert Arizona to be near their daughters and launched a new venture as entertainers. Monte played a carpenter saw with a violin bow, and Elaine accompanied him on the piano. They developed a unique variety show that was a mix of music, humor, and motivational speaking. They set out booking “gigs” with their stage name, “Monte Smith and His Sensational Saw.” They entertained close to home and all over the country sharing their extraordinary talent. To escape the Arizona summers, Elaine called it their “Beat the Heat Tour.” After more than 2,000 shows and Monte’s declining health, they slowed their travel and performance schedule.

Monte and Elaine shared a wonderful life together and recently celebrated their 57^th wedding anniversary.  Monte was a faithful and active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He held many callings within the church and diligently served in any capacity where he was needed. He loved his family dearly and showed that love frequently with hugs, humor, and his playful nature.

He is survived by his wife Elaine, daughter Stephanie Lucas (Tye), daughter Holly Kreutz (Adam), his grandchildren, Zach & Jessica Lucas, Gracie Lucas, Christopher Kreutz and Kyle Kreutz, his brother Randy Smith (Renée), brother-in-law Chandler Peterson and 10 nieces and nephews.

Services will be held Saturday, March 1, 2025 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located at 1010 S. Recker Rd., Gilbert, AZ 85296. Visitation begins at 1:00 PM, followed by the Funeral at 2:00 PM. Special thanks to Bunker Family Funeral Home for handling the service.

Monte will be buried in the Pleasant Grove, Utah, City Cemetery on Friday, March 7, 2025 at 2:00 PM, under the direction of Olpin Family Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, Monte would appreciate bouquets sent to the residents at The Watermark at Morrison Ranch Assisted Living Community located at 3333 E. Morrison Ranch Pkwy, Gilbert, AZ 85296. He loved to regularly visit there with his great friend, Kent Sorensen, and would be so delighted to know his friends were enjoying a beautiful arrangement on his behalf.

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

“I’m going to be 95” was his usual greeting, then when you stated he didn’t look that old, he’d say, “You didn’t let me finish. I’ll be 95 in 13 more years.” Actually being 82-3/4, Dennis passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Mesa, AZ on Friday, Jan 31^st.

Born April 17, 1942 to Willard and Frances Krause on the edge of the City of Appleton’s south side, with woods and fields as his back yard, he was truly an “outdoors person.” With two older sisters and one older brother, his father built their cement block basement, intending to finish the upstairs ‘shortly’ (which didn’t happen the entire time Denny lived at home.) Living in the basement, he often claimed he thought he was a member of the gopher family.

“Dennis the Menace” as he referred to himself in later years, attended Sacred Heart Catholic Grade School, McKinley Junior High and graduated from Appleton (West) High School in Spring 1960.

With many neighborhood kids to play with, and pop-up baseball games at all times of the day, Denny learned to become independent at an early age. Realizing if he wanted nice clothing instead of ‘hand me downs’ or anything extra — he would need to earn his own money. He was thankful for brother Larry who often handed off his old jobs of shoveling snow, delivering newspapers, later on helping at the nearby Wittman farm making hay and doing chores; to eventually setting pins at the bowling alley and finally working full time for Elm Tree Bakery throughout high school.

Denny joined the Army after High School but was honorably discharged from Fort Lenardwood one day before his completion of 3 month boot camp because of a medical operation he needed. So, back to Appleton where he worked the required months to qualify for health insurance in order to get the operation. The Doc said, a few more months and he would have lost a kidney.

In 1962 he met and married Margaret Wegener, and settled down to have 4 children on a shoestring budget. He first worked at American Can Paper Mill in Menasha; then landed a position on the Appleton Fire Department May 8, 1967 (again, thanks to brother Larry) and retired April 27^th, 1995. Picking up extra money by washing windows and painting houses, the strain of not enough attention paid to wife and kids caused a divorce in 1973.

Enjoying his bachelorhood for 8 years, until meeting and marrying Gail J. Ramthun Nov. 7, 1981; Dennis continued his hobbies of downhill skiing (with Gail and kids), bowling – achieving a 300 game during league, hunting to acquire trophy white tail deer; and out of state, elk, moose and caribou. Then his interests turned to flying … ultralight airplanes (one-seater, open cockpit vehicles that he built himself) culminating in flying his plane into EAA in Oshkosh for several years. Eventually, Corvette cars were added to his list of accomplishments. In 1994 his dream of owning a 1958 restored Corvette (Cora) with all correctly numbered parts helped him win the Triple Crown Award, consisting of a first at the National Corvette Restorer Society’s Regional and then National Award, the Bloomington Gold and finally the Triple Crown.

Gail’s love of travel took the couple to Hawaii, Alaska, Yugoslavia, Russia, South Africa, Beijing and Hong Kong in China, several cruises and ended in 2005 with a 2-month trip to Australia and New Zealand. Starting in 2001, the couple would vacation in Phoenix, Arizona, ending up purchasing a home in Mesa, AZ where they wintered for the past 15 years.

Dennis loved fishing at the cottage so he could eat fresh fish; teasing his Mother-in-law about beating her at cards; and making other people laugh by kidding, telling jokes, or sneaking up behind a person to scare them (as with Gail, touching one strand of hair to see if she could feel it.)

Preceding Dennis were his parents, all three of his sisters, Angela (Donald) Perrine, Karen Krause and Tina Hasslehurst and one brother, James Krause, and sister-in-law Marla Krause, Dean’s wife. Remaining are his two brothers and families, Lawrence (Sharon) Krause, Appleton and Dean Krause, Berlin; wife Gail, Greenville; and children Tim (Kris), Appleton; Terry, Rome, WI, Toby (Laura) Winter Gardens, FL and daughter Tammy Fredrick, fiancée Toni Bast, Appleton; and three grandchildren, Morgan and Mitch Krause and Maxwell Fredrick.

A Celebration of Life will be held in late Spring or early Summer in the Fox River Valley, WI.

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

Zachary Taylor McKinnon returned to his heavenly home on Friday, February 14, 2025, passing away peacefully in the hospital at the age of 27.

Zach was born on January 9, 1998, in Mesa, Arizona, to his loving parents, Tim and Nicolle McKinnon. He was the oldest of six children and a devoted big brother to Kimball, Alistair, Senecca, Bella, and Kate.

Zach had a deep love for the outdoors—hunting and fishing were among his favorite pastimes. He had a gift for bringing joy to those around him and never failed to make others smile. His kind heart, adventurous spirit, and love of life left a lasting impact on everyone he met.

Zach was engaged to the love of his life, Kenzie, and the two were excited to build a future together.

He will be deeply missed by his family, fiancée, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

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

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Patrick John Sadecki, who left us on January 28, 2025, at the age of 57, due to complications from Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). Patrick was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.

Patrick “Pat” was born to Norbert and Louise Tajdus Sadecki on April 20, 1967, in Chicago, Illinois. They moved to Santa Barbara, CA when Pat was a year and a half. He graduated high school in 1985 from San Marcos High School in Santa Barbara, CA. Pat became a Hot Shot in Santa Barbara right after high school and moved to the County Roads Department where he operated heavy equipment. He then continued his career working for the Santa Barbara County Public Works department where he retired in 2017 after 32 years of service with the County.

Pat met the love of his life, Kelley Cox in 1994 and they married in 1997. Their union was blessed with Pat’s loving son Kevan Sadecki, from a previous marriage to Sheri Jackson in 1989. Pat and Kelley shared a wonderful daughter together, Hayley Sadecki, who was born in 1999, and they lived in Santa Ynez until 2023. Pat and Kelley then moved to Gold Canyon, AZ to live out their retirement. As a father, Pat was a guiding light, instilling in his children the values of integrity, perseverance, and kindness. His love for his family was boundless, and he cherished every moment spent with them. Pat’s love for life extended beyond his professional and family commitments. He loved hunting, fishing, Nascar, shooting and baseball. Go Dodgers! He also never missed an episode of Columbo! Pat and Kelley’s favorite vacation spot was Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, where they created many memories at their Time Share enjoying the pool, beach, food, staff, friends and especially the sunrises with Pat always holding his “can of coffee”.

Those who knew Pat will remember him for his contagious smile, boundless generosity, warm spirit, and unwavering support. He was a pillar of his community, always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. He was a 23-year member of the Santa Ynez Valley Elks Lodge #2640 and two-time Past Exalted Ruler. He was also a Gold Cupper with the Vikings of Solvang and a loyal contributor to Santa Ynez Youth Recreation and the Santa Barbara County Farm Bureau. His legacy of kindness and compassion will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched.

He is survived by his beloved wife Kelley; his children Kevan of Phoenix, AZ and Hayley of Cameron Park, CA; his grandson Wyatt Sadecki of Talala, OK; his sister Elizabeth Sadecki (John Masonovich) of Belt, MT.; his brother David Sadecki (Jo Ellen) of Santa Barbara, CA; his nieces and nephews Bryan Parker (Michael), Jim Parker (Carisa ), Ian Sadecki (Shannon), Brooke Jackson (Ken), Bonus stepsons Frank and Dustin Meza, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Norbert and Louise Tajdus Sadecki.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 12:00pm at the Santa Ynez Equestrian Center Facility located at 195 N. Refugio Road in Santa Ynez, CA. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Pat’s honor to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation (t2t.org), Hospice of the Valley (hov.org) or the Santa Ynez Valley Elks Lodge #2640 charities.

Patrick Sadecki’s memory will live on through the many lives he touched. As we bid farewell to a remarkable man, we find solace in knowing that his spirit will forever be with us, guiding us with the same love and wisdom he so generously shared during his lifetime.

Psalm 73:26 – “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”

Rest in peace, Pat. You will be deeply missed.

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