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Philis McBride Bryce, 88, passed from the wonders of her mortality, May 3, 2020, at her home in Gilbert, Arizona.  Philis was born in Pima, Arizona to Phil and Delsa Davis McBride, November 24, 1931. She is the oldest of their eight children.  Philis married Robert Keith Bryce. June 18, 1947 in the Brooks and Norma Bryce home in Pima. While living in Pima, their first two of eight children; Carol and Jane were born in Safford.

In the fall of 1952, in pursuit of a career related to Electrical Engineering for Robert, they moved to Phoenix where he gained employment with Arizona Public Service for 37 years. Here six more children joined the family. At her passing, Philis is blessed with 29 grandchildren, 85 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren. There are currently 37 persons bearing surnames other than Bryce or McBride that have chosen to join Philis’ direct posterity through marriage.

Philis is survived by Robert, her loving husband of over 72 years, and all of their eight children: Carol Inman, Jane (Norman) Stowell, Gary Robert (Sheri Overson) Bryce, Amy Bryce, Kevin Brooks (Tamilyn Frost) Bryce, Laurel Miller, Michael Phil Bryce, and Nathan Keith (Kristin Roberts) Bryce. She is also survived by five of her siblings: Clarence (Joan) McBride, Gary (Leisel) McBride, Marja (Tracy) Hansen, Margaret (Levan) Webb, Marie McBride Siefert, and two brothers-in-law: Stan (Norma) Natividad, Douglas (Leora) Taylor.

Philis is preceded in death by her parents: Phil and Delsa Davis McBride, her sisters: Norma Natividad, and Leora Taylor, a brother-in-law; Ronald Seifert, two sons-in-law: Dale Murray Inman and Darrell Eugene Miller and Amy’s first son; Jimmy Allen Hunt an infant grandson.  They will be just a few of the many in a joyous reunion with Philis.

Philis devoted her entire life in caring for and loving her family and grandchildren as well as foster children, friends and extended family.  Her home was often filled with the smell of homemade bread and the sounds of good music and song. She involved her children in providing service for others and looked for opportunities to enrich lives. During her last days at home we received comments from professional caregivers that her home was the most peaceful of all they have visited.  That tribute best describes her home.

Philis is a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Both Philis and Bob are fifth generation descendants of Pioneer ancestors. Their devotion to the tenets and actions of this religion has been the source of years of great joy and satisfaction. In addition to the standard callings that active members receive, she served as Relief Society President for three different Bishops and provided the piano/organ accompaniment for many soloists, groups, funerals, weddings and meetings. She served several years as a temple worker and loved the two full-time missions to Mauritius (in the Indian Ocean) and Vermont with her husband. Family History Indexing was her latest choice for church service.

Our special thanks to Samantha Bates, her Santé Hospice caregiver who has been exactly available for several months.

Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, a private graveside service will be held at the Pima Cemetery, Friday May 8, 2020 at 10:00. Social distancing will be observed as directed by Bunker Family Funerals.

Harry “Junior” A. Hanson was born April 5, 1946 to Albert and Clara Hanson in Denver, CO. He passed away at the age of 74 on May 1, 2020 in Mesa, AZ. Harry was the youngest of 10 children. He spent his childhood in Custer, SD under the loving care of the Husaboe family. With the extended family, he had 4 brothers and 9 sisters (5 Hanson and 4 Husaboe).

Harry graduated from Custer High School. After graduation he joined the Army Infantry Division and married Carol. Harry served with distinction during the Vietnam war where he earned several medals including the Combat Infantry Badge, multiple Silver Stars, Solders Heroism, and multiple Bronze Stars with valor. In addition to his outgoing personality, Harry always had a strong entrepreneurial spirit and enjoyed socializing with everyone. After the military, Harry worked in the logging industry in the Black Hills of South Dakota. He left South Dakota to start a up a furniture store in Douglas, WY. Once experiencing how much better his health was in Arizona, in the early 80’s, he moved to the Phoenix area where he helped Carol’s sister and brother-in-law build catering routes serving construction workers. Harry eventually branched off and ran his own catering business.  He sold the catering business and continued to remain active by volunteering as an usher for Mesa Arts Center. In between running businesses and volunteering, he enjoyed spending time camping, fishing and generally being outdoors with family and friends.

Harry leaves behind his wife Carol Hanson of Mesa, AZ; daughters Roxann Tong and husband Terrence of Gilbert, AZ, Michelle Marlatt and husband John of Mesa, AZ; son Shawn Hanson of Glendale, AZ; grandsons Joshua Reinhold, Kolton Reinhold, and Cody Hanson; granddaughters Grace Tong and Joyce Tong; great-granddaughter Zariah; sisters Mildred Drummond, Jean Murray and Rose Patras; and Husaboe sisters Joyce and Maxine; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Harry was proceeded in death by his parents Albert and Clara Hanson; brothers Dick, Elmer, Alfred, and Thomas Hanson; sisters Betty McKee and Edith Simms; and Husaboe sisters Frances and Faith.

On Sunday evening, April 26, 2020, at sunset, Adrienne Elizabeth Beale passed away peacefully at her parent’s home surrounded by her loving family.  She was 30 years old, a special angel on earth, knowing only love and happiness while blessing everyone in her life with joy and inspiration.

Adrie was born December 15, 1989, in Reading, Pennsylvania.   She was the youngest child with two older brothers who always deeply loved and cared for her.  She lived with her parents until a few years ago when she moved into a nearby group home owned and managed by Guthrie Mainstream.  Here, she lived an independent life.  During the day, she attended a program at the Marc Community Resources, Freestone Campus.  She loved her housemates and many devoted care providers from both home and day program who so lovingly cared for her and became her extended family.

Adrie loved listening to music, singing, and whistling; she loved laughter and laughing, deep belly laughs being her favorite.  She loved being surrounded by her favorite toys, especially Karaoke Kid (aka Mr. Jones).   She loved social interaction with her special friends and more than anyone with her Mom.  Although she never spoke a word or took steps independently, her infectious smile and captivating gaze always pulled you into her world.   Her expressive eyebrows and generous hugs always delivered special rewards to all who listened.  She lived life a brave girl; a giving girl; a sweet angel determined to spread her love and goodness to everyone and remind us of what is most important in this life.

She is survived by her mother Teresa Spady Beale, father Richard Gale Beale, brothers Derrick Brian Beale and Lane Grayson Beale, paternal grandmother Edith Lane Beale, and maternal grandfather Bruce Reginald Spady.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandmother Eleanor Gray Spady and her paternal grandfather Carl Malvern Beale, Jr.

A celebration of Adrie’s life will take place in the near future at her parent’s home in Mesa, Arizona.

Allen Lee Myers went to his heavenly home on April 30^th,  2020.  He was born in Lewisburg, PA in 1948, and moved to Arizona with his family in 1959.  He was a devout Lutheran, a Viet Nam Veteran proud of his service to his country, an avid golfer and a die-hard Diamondback’s fan.  He loved his Lord and his family.  One of his favorite things was to spend time supporting his children and grandchildren in their various activities and interests.  His love of travel took him to many parts of the world where he discovered his love of photography.

Allen is survived by his wife, Debbie; two daughters – Jennifer Myers, Heather Vickers (Brian), one son – Kevin Myers, 7 grandchildren – Cecelia, Molly, Tres, Breanne, Lily, Leah and Charlie, his mother – Anna May, one sister – Edith Toles (David), and one brother – Mark Myers (Kathy).  He was preceded in death by his father – Charles “Charlie” Myers.

Bearing in mind the current unusual circumstances with the “Stay-at-Home” mandate , memorial services have been placed on hold, and will be determined at a later date.  Taking this into consideration and in lieu of flowers, the family is asking that donations be made to Pilgrim Ev. Lutheran Church at the following link:  www.pilgrimmesa.com. 

Bob Brown, formally of Shellsburg and Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away suddenly on April 21, 2020, surrounded by his three daughters.  A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Bob was born March 13, 1939 in Independence, Iowa to Ralph and Laurel Brown.  He graduated from Van Horne High School in 1956.  He was active in all sports and was proud to be a Van Horne Hornet baseball catcher.

While employed at Armstrong’s  Department Store Bob met Barbara Ettinger and soon married on September 26, 1959.  Bob  began his career at Collins Radio, later Rockwell International in 1960 and retiring 35 years later.  As a Hawkeye fan he worked for Per Mar for over 30 years in Iowa City in various roles, including escorting luminaries such as John Wooden and Bobby Knight.

Bob enjoyed woodworking, sports cars, motorcycles, the Hawkeyes, Chicago Cubs, golf and winters in Arizona. He later made Arizona his permanent home.  He is proceeded in death by his wife, Barbara Brown; parents and brother, Brad Brown; and grandson Ryan. 

Left to cherish Bob’s memories are his daughters; Jodi (Michael) Gover of Three Rivers, California, Becki (Len) Parmenter of Gold Canyon, Arizona, and Robin (Doug) Wichhart of North Liberty, Iowa; four grandchildren: Joey Gover, Jordan Gover, Jamie Wichhart, and Matthew Wichhart; one great-granddaughter, Brooke Gover.   Bob is also survived by his brother Gary (Sandi) Brown of Merced, California; and many extended family members including his four-legged companion, Bailey.

Bob will always be remembered for his selflessness, kindness, zest for life, and impish grin.  He was instrumental in establishing and operating the food pantry in Shellsburg, assisting others in his community by providing his time and talent.  He also provided “Uber services” for those  who needed transportation or errands.  He was the neighborhood handyman.

On Saturday April 25, 2020, Sterling Warden, Loving Son, Brother, Husband, Father, and Grandfather passed away at age 56.

Sterling was born on October 20, 1963, In Mesa, AZ to Linda Daley and Jack Warden. He was an Army Ranger, ERCA World Champion in 1984, and Master Electrician. On April 11, 1987, he married Sherri Smithson and celebrated 33 wonderful years of marriage.  They raised 3 children Rylee (Salvador), Alexis (Michael), and Tanner (Courtney).  He was a proud Papa to his grandsons Ronan and Remington.

Sterling was known for his infectious laughter and witty one-liners.  He loved being outdoors whether it was working on cars, being a part of rodeos, off-roading, or enjoying the company of family & friends.

Sterling proceeded in death his Brother Dusty.  He survived by his Mother Linda, Father Jack, Brother Shannon, Sister Misty, Wife Sherri, His 3 children Rylee, Alexis, and Tanner, and his 2 Grandsons Ronan and Remington.  Funeral services to be announced.

Rodney Owens Bradshaw, 95, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, April 25, 2020. He was born on March 15, 1925, in Mesa, Arizona and was a lifelong and active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and resident of Mesa. Rodney was the student body president of Mesa High School Class of 1943 and kept track of his classmates throughout his life. During World War II, he served as a pilot in the U.S. Army Air Corps, flying a B25 Mitchell bomber in 34 missions over Italy, and discharged with the rank of captain. After the war ended, he served a mission for two and a half years in Argentina.

He married Ruth Skouson on March 23, 1951 in the Mesa Arizona Temple, and they enjoyed deep happiness together for 63 years until her death in 2014. Rodney attended Arizona State University, earning a BA, a MA, and enough hours for a PhD (ABD). He worked as a junior high school teacher and administrator for 27 years, spending his off hours building beautiful furniture and raising eight lively children with Ruth. He was involved with the Boy Scouts of America all his life; he was an Eagle Scout with three palms, a Scoutmaster, a recipient of the Silver Beaver award, and the inspiration for his six sons and 15 grandsons to become Eagle Scouts as well. He was just as proud of his two daughters and 18 granddaughters for receiving their Young Womanhood Recognition award.

Rodney is survived by his sons Aaron (Donna), Kim (Dina), Blair (Sheron), Richard (Sian), Rusty (Juli), and Philip (Wendy); his daughters Gayle (David) Thomas and Ruthann (Carlton) Van Leuven; 33 grandchildren, and 75 great-grandchildren; also his sister Cecile Ashby. He was predeceased by his wife Ruth, his parents, Samuel Silas Bradshaw and Clara Estella McClellan Bradshaw, his grandson Joshua Bradshaw, and 11 brothers and sisters.

Due to current conditions, services were limited to immediate family. A memorial service will be scheduled for a later date.

Mary Jean McPeck, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, and nurse. Mary McPeck passed away on Monday, April 20, 2020 at the age of 75. She was born on August 11, 1944 in Lebanon, Indiana but raised in Brownsburg and Zionsville, Indiana. Mary was the third of four children to Elizabeth and Allen Fox. The family moved to Phoenix in 1960. Mary attended Camelback High School before graduating from Paradise Valley High School in 1962. She attended Saint Joseph’s School of Nursing, graduating in 1965. Mary was a registered nurse who began her career working for private practice doctors. Mary went on to work in operating rooms at Maricopa County Medical Center, Arizona Spine and Joint, and Mercy Gilbert Medical Center. She retired in 2010 after 45 years in nursing. Mary was known for her playful wit, sense of humor, and infectious smile. She valued keeping in close contact with friends from high school, nursing school, nursing, and those she met along the way. Mary enjoyed traveling and spending time with her family, leaving a smile on the faces of everyone she met. Mary donated her time, volunteering for Arizona Bike Week, Solel Preschool, and Cochise Elementary School, just to name a few. There are many traits she will be remembered for including her generosity, selflessness, compassion, professionalism, and love of having fun!

Mary was preceded in death by her sister Karen Lee Fox, parents Elizabeth and Allen Fox, and husband Norman McPeck. She is survived by her daughter Susan Yaffe (Paul); grandchildren, Ryan McPeck (Dannielle), Sarah Woodward (Zach), Nash Yaffe, and Christina Finley; eight great grandchildren; beloved cat Chewy; sister Linda Kearns (Walter); brother Martin Fox; niece Karen Sundberg; four great nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Mary’s life will be held at a later date.

Jacquelyn Pace Williams, 82, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 26, 2020 at her daughter’s home in Mesa, Arizona.

Jackie was born to Orlando Delorum Pace and Nancy Rebecca Cluff on March 20, 1938 in Hayden, Arizona.  Jackie is the third of four daughters: Nancy Jeanene, Connie Mae, and Susan Elaine.

After graduating from Hayden High School in 1956, Jackie attended St. Joseph’s Hospital School of Nursing in Phoenix for 3 years.

Jackie met her sweatheart, Oscar Gene Williams, through his sister Shirley Riley.  Once Gene was discharged from the Army, they were married in the Mesa Arizona Temple on December 29, 1960.  They have celebrated over 59 years together.  They have four children: Rebecca (Becky), Kevin, Kurt, and Christianna (Christi), all born in Fontana, California.

Jackie worked for 27 years for the Kaiser Hospital Pediatric Clinic in Fontana, CA.  After living in California for 40 years Gene and Jackie moved back “home” to Arizona. They bought a small cabin in Heber, AZ where they enjoyed escaping from the valley heat during the summer.

Jackie kept herself busy with crocheting blankets for great grandchildren, doing crossword puzzles, watching Arizona Diamondback games, and traveling. She and Gene participated in the cast of the Mesa Temple Easter Pageant for four years. It was a wonderful spiritual experience for them.

She was a life-long member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  Jackie served in many positions in her Church, mainly in the Young Women and Relief Society, but also as activity day leader, and ward missionary. Jackie also enjoyed serving with Gene as service missionaries which they did for three years in the Bishop’s Storehouse.

Jackie was preceded in death by her husband Oscar Gene Williams, and her parents Lan and Nancy Pace.  She is survived by her four children Rebecca Gibson (Scott), of Mesa, AZ,; Kevin Williams (Sherry), of Thousand Palms, CA.; Kurt Williams (Jana), of Mesa, AZ.; and Christi Williams, of Mesa, AZ.  She is also survived by her three sisters, Jeanene Marshall of Chandler, AZ; Connie Young of Sarita, AZ; and Susan Martin, Camarillo, CA.  She is blessed to have 15 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren (with 3 more on the way) who have blessed her life along with all of you.  Thank you

Dennis LeCompte was granted his angel wings on April 23, 2020 at the age of 59 when he surrendered to his long battle with lung cancer. He passed away peacefully at home with his family in Mesa, AZ. He began his life journey on February 17, 1961 to (Father) Dennis LeCompte Sr. and (Mother) Ernestine LeCompte.

He was a former resident of Fort Wayne, Indiana where he grew up to respect all individuals. He always had kind encouraging words to anyone he felt needed uplifting. Dennis would never hesitate to give financial assistance or give a helping hand to even a stranger who crossed his path. He was a symbol of courage and hope and reminded us of the preciousness of life. One of his quotes was “Don’t let anyone fool you, not even yourself.”

He was employed as a machine operator for Mullinix Packages as a machine operator then began a career as supervision in CNC sheet metal fabrication. He began attending Ivy Tech with is goal to gain a degree in Robotics Technology.
Dennis is survived by his Mother, Ernestine LeCompte and Sisters, Tina LeCompte, Susan Torrez; his children and their spouses, Alexandria LeCompte, Destin LeCompte, Skyler and Paege Diemer, Ezekiel LeCompte and one granddaughter, Sayge Diemer; many nieces and nephews and cousins; and his companion Tanya Williams,
He is preceded in death by his Father, Dennis LeCompte Sr., brother, Michael LeCompte.
Wake service is limited to family only on April 30, 2020 at his home and burial will take place early morning Friday May 1, 2020 at Salt River Cemetery.

Ina Jean Squires passed away on April 19, 2020 with her husband, Jack, by her side.  Jean lived a life full of love and service as a mother, teacher, and faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She was born on August 10, 1932 in Mountain Home, Utah, to Adelbert Mecham and Ina Lizzie Hanberg.  She was the youngest of their six children and their only daughter. In writing about her life, Jean said she always felt deeply loved by her family, and later in life she often recalled with laughter the gentle teasing she received from her older brothers.

She loved growing up in a small town where most everyone knew each other and had farming in common. Her father was a dairy farmer, but also owned and operated a school bus. Attending a small high school, Altamont High School, gave Jean the opportunity to be involved in many activities: marching band, choir, cheerleader, school plays, yearbook, student body president and winning the Miss Uintah Basin crown.  She won a scholarship to the University of Utah, and later transferred to Brigham Young University.  While a student there she married Jack Squires, on June 11, 1953. They had five children. And at the time of her death Jean and Jack had been married for 66 years.

After marrying, she attended Utah State University, graduating with a degree in child development and elementary education.  When her youngest child entered elementary school Jean began working outside the home as a second-grade teacher in the Peoria Unified School District. She taught for 21 years, most of them at Heritage Elementary School.

Throughout her adult life Jean served in various assignments in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints congregations she attended. She was a leader of the young women’s organization and as a teacher, among many other assignments.  After her retirement she and Jack served two missions for the Church, back to back, spending almost five years in Africa. The first mission was to Durban, South Africa and the second to Enugu, Nigeria.  She also loved to travel, including to Europe, China, Australia, New Zealand, South America, and around the United States.

She is survived by her husband, John Fell “Jack” Squires of Mesa, Arizona; and her five children: Bradley Squires of Las Vegas, Nevada; Lori Ohmart of Strawberry, Arizona; Tamara Whiting of Mesa, Arizona; Marie Chase of Ogden, Utah; and Michael Squires of Gilbert, Arizona.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Books for Africa booksforafrica.org, in memory of Jean Squires.

Marcia Anne Foote Johnson, 80 passed away peacefully surrounded by her loved ones on Sunday, April 12, 2020. Marcia was born April 22, 1939 in Los Angeles, California to Wally and Nellie Foote. The oldest of three girls, Francia Sweet (Butch) and Celia Foote. She attended Boulder City, Nevada High School where she met her husband, Kay W. Johnson from Henderson, Nevada. They were married on February 16, 1958 and recently celebrated their 62^nd wedding anniversary. Kay and Marcia moved to Glendale, Arizona where they raised four children; Kayanne Johnson Andersen (David), Bruce Johnson (Becky), Cindy Johnson Poulsen (Glade) and Joel Johnson (Amanda). Marcia spent most of her life in various church volunteer positions and could always be found with a smile on her face and something kind to say. She worked in various jobs and positions throughout her life; lifeguard, McDonald’s manager, manager in money room at Loomis Armored, and a Dial-A-Ride bus driver for the City of Glendale. She was loved by many and will be missed by all. Marcia leaves behind 16 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren. 

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Ella Anderson, our loving and devoted Mother and friend, to all whose lives she touched, early in the morning on April 24, 2020.  She left us peacefully and in the company of family at her residence in Mesa, AZ.  She was in her 95^th year.

Born in Colonia Garcia, Chihuahua, Mexico on October 24, 1924, to Leonard Whetten and Lettie Beecroft, raised from the age of 10 by Leonard Whetten and Willmirth Skousen. She witnessed incredible changes to our world in her lifetime.  Graduating from Academia Juarez High School in Colonia Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico on May 24, 1943.  Then becoming an educator and taking a job as an Elementary School teacher in Mexico, which she held for 35 years, retiring in 1980 as a 3^rd grade teacher.  She met her husband, Leonard ‘ManE’ Anderson in Pacheco, Mexico in 1943 and married him in a civil ceremony in Colonia Juarez, Mexico on August 27, 1944.  Shortly after they were sealed in the Mesa, AZ Temple on January 12, 1945.

Together with their 5 children, they became naturalized citizens of the United States in October 1967.  Moving from Mexico to the United States in 1979, settling in Hereford, TX, and later moving to Gore, OK.  After losing her devoted husband, Leonard ‘ManE’ Anderson, in July 1993, she later moved to Mesa, AZ where she resided for the rest of her days.

Devoted Mother of Dahrlene McDowell (Jim), Ellen Turley (Marshall), Karen Tarwater (preceded in death by Dan), Gary Anderson (Laura), and J. William Anderson (Alisa).

Preceded in death by her beloved husband, Leonard ‘ManE’ Anderson and her sisters: Agnes Marine Whetten, Melvina Allen, and Arletta Taylor.  Survived by her sisters: Lenna Smith and Betty Jo LaMarca, all five of her children, 15 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great grandchildren.

Ella lived a full life as a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, homemaker, and Elementary School teacher.  She loved being an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and truly enjoyed serving her church as a Temple Ordinance Worker for 15 years and a Spanish Director for 3 years in the Mesa, AZ Temple.  She is best remembered for her cooking, storytelling, highly competitive game playing, and supremely compassionate heart.  Most of all, she loved her family and instilled in her five children strong values that continue to serve them well today.  She will be dearly missed and will forever be in our hearts.

A viewing for Ella will be held at Bunker Garden Funeral Home at 33 N Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ 85201 for immediate family.  She will then be taken back to Gore, OK to be laid to rest with her husband. A graveside service will be held at Stevensen Cemetery in Gore, OK, but due to the world pandemic, unfortunately and with great sadness, it will also be limited to immediate family.

Donald (Don) Johnson passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, April 19^th, 2020 while living his happy life in Apache Junction, Arizona, he was 61.  He was born August 5, 1958 in Hancock, Michigan.  Growing up he spent much of his time in Southern California before returning to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan where he worked as a skilled auto mechanic then as a top salesman at Public Service.  He later had his own successful business, Superior Auto in Negaunee, Michigan, for many years before selling it three years ago.  Don Continued buying and reselling cars in Arizona.  He was an avid stock car enthusiast for many years and later in life he loved four wheeling in the desert with friends and family.  He also enjoyed riding his Harley, watching old westerns, reading and fixing up his dream home with his wife Theresa.

He is survived by his loving wife Theresa Vilona Johnson, his daughter from a previous marriage Aminda Johnson, a stepson, Anthony Marietti and his wife Kate and a step daughter, Jennifer Marietti, his father Gerald and stepmom Bonnie Johnson, his sister Deborah LaPlante and husband Robert, brother-in-law Tony (Nancy) Vilona, Vince (Kristen) Vilona, Dominic (Shannon) Vilona, sisters-in-law Filomena (Craig) Wolf, stepsister Amy Byrd and stepbrothers Todd and Gregory Byrd, as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother Fannie Pienela Ellis, grandparents Elmy and Walfred Pienela and Ed and Edna Johnson.

Don Worked hard, lived hard, and played harder but ultimately died happy and he will be missed.  Those who knew him know that he didn’t particularly care for parties and social events but we can’t let him go without a celebration of life, this will take place in Upper Michigan this summer.  Please look for an announcement in the Mining Journal sometime in June or July.

Michael L. Simmons, 68, of Mesa, AZ. Beloved husband, father and grandfather died quietly in his home on April 1, 2020.  Survivors include his wife Sandra Simmons née Shontell and three children, Rachel and her husband Ray Yanguez, Vanessa and her husband Chet Miller, and Erica Simmons. Michael had four children from a previous marriage; William and his wife Mari living in Japan; Jeffrey and his wife Tonya in Peoria, AZ; Bryan Simmons with his wife Kumiko living in Japan; Jennifer Gresham with her wife Ami in Texas.  Michael was patriarch to 21 grandchildren.

Born in Heber City, UT, November 18, 1951 to Merlin LaVon and Colleen Simmons as the 2nd of four children; his older brother Dwayne, and younger sisters Collette Thomas and Teresa Waldeck. At the age of 4, Michael contracted polio and endured years of surgeries and physical therapy. As a young adult, he learned computer programming languages and worked behind the scenes for many banking institutions. In retirement, he spent hours driving the roads of this country. His family said brief goodbyes during a closed 30-minute viewing at Bunkers Mortuary on April 3.

Michael’s legacy lives on in his children and the lessons he taught continue: “We were taught to take care of our responsibilities, earn what we have, be grateful for it, and not to brag.” “Love with your whole heart, make hard phone calls, never miss a chance to say “I love you”. 

A memorial service will be scheduled for a later date.

Mary Jane Leason, born July 22, 1934, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2020. She is survived by 2 sons, Leslie “Mike” Leason of Phoenix and Timothy (Virginia) Leason of Chandler. 5 grandchildren: Derick, Mac, Joseph, Ryan, Adam, and 7 great- grandchildren: Blake, Bella, Emma, Ethan, Autumn, Adaline, and Skylar. Mary is also survived by her sisters-in-law Barbara Thelander, and Carol Silliman, as well as many nieces and nephews. Mary moved to Arizona in 1949 from Winterset, Iowa. She worked for Pleko Southwest as a bookkeeper and Allied Concrete Company. Mary was a member of Epsilon Sigma Alpha and with a various number of projects also did volunteer work with Mesa ARC. In her retirement, she volunteered for Arizona CASA and for the City of Tempe Police Department. Mary loved playing cards and family gathering along with meeting with Echo Polio Group on a monthly basis. She enjoyed knitting blankets for family, friends, and hospital projects for preemie babies. She is preceded in death by her parents, James and Mildred “Tokie” Silliman, former husband Leslie R. Leason, brother John Silliman, sister Margaret “Anne” Silliman, and son Richard Leason. The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, donations, in memory of Mary, be directed to Hospice of the Valley at www.hov.org/donate/. Bunker Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements and the family will announce, at a future date, the date and location for the memorial service.