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Lawrence ‘Lori’ Martinez February 26, 1922- April 4, 2020

Lawrence ‘Lori’ Martinez passed away peacefully on April 4, 2020 at her home in Mesa, Arizona. She was born to Manuel and Beatrice Gonzales in Santa Fe, New Mexico on February 26, 1922.

She attended school in Espanola, NM. She married Joe M. Martinez  July 21,1941 in Santa Cruz, NM. They lived a happy life for 57 years and raised 8 children together.

They made their home in Farmington, NM. Lori was a Kindergarden Aide in the Farmington School System. She worked at Apache School and Swinburne Elementary. She loved working with children. She created bulletin boards and fun things for the children to work on. After the death of her husband, she moved to Arizona where she lived until her passing.

Lori was a sweet and caring person. She was a member of Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church and was devoted to St. Mary, our blessed mother to whom she prayed a daily rosary. People were drawn to her kindness and pleasant personality. She loved to shop for shoes and was a perfectionist in everything she did. She had a special knack of doing crafts, puzzles, and playing cards. She loved to tell people that she had a Five Generations Family. One of her favorite things was going out to dinner and she especially loved going to Bingo with her friends. She never complained throughout her illness and her favorite words were “I’m doing fine” and ‘getting old is not easy’.

Lori was preceded in death by her husband, Joe M. Martinez, parents, Manuel and Beatrice Gonzales, and her siblings 3 Sisters and 2 Brothers, She is survived by her children, Priscilla (Albert) Lopez, Paul (Theresa) Martinez, Susie (Dave) Park, Pearl (Brett) Gillespie, Connie Martinez, Joseph (Theresa) Martinez, Leonard Martinez, Laura (Kevin) Bloxom. 20 Grandchildren, 31 Great-Grandchildren and 21 Great, Great-Grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, Lori’s request that donations be made: In Memory of Lori Martinez, Banner Hospice ATTN: Cindy Darby, 275 E. Germann, Ste. 110, Gilbert, AZ 85297

She will be cremated and her final resting place will at Greenlawn Cemetery in Farmington, NM next to her beloved husband, Joe M. Martinez. At which time we will have a gravesite memorial service.

Bunker Family Funeral Services are handling the affairs.

Eleanor JoAnn Moore passed away on April 7, 2020. She was 83 years old and has lived a full and happy life. She passed quietly away to be with her husband and son who went before her. She loved her family, playing the piano, teaching kindergarten and serving others. As a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints she served in many positions, including a service mission at the Bishop’s Storehouse in Tempe, Arizona.

JoAnn was born to Frank Wilson Agutter and Sophronia Stephenson, on April 14, 1936 in Salt Lake City, Utah. She was the oldest of 5. Her sisters are Sharon, Sylvia, Susan and Colleen, Sharon and Susan preceded her in death. She was raised in Salt Lake City and graduated from East High School. She went on to get her teaching degree from Brigham Young University. After getting her degree she moved to Mesa, Arizona to start her teaching career at the old Lehi Elementary School. After raising her children she went back to teaching kindergarten at Edison Elementary School in Mesa, Arizona. Her former students may remember Zero Hero days and getting treats. (Zero Hero was our dad).

She met David Moore in Arizona and married him on August 11, 1960 in Salt Lake City, Utah. JoAnn and David had been married 59 years when David died in August of 2019. They have 5 children: Kelly, Mathew (Lori Bigler), Nancy Palmer (Darrel), Erin, Tracy (Jennifer Downey). David and Erin preceded her in death.

JoAnn and David have been blessed with 15 grandchildren: Malcolm, Garrett, Angela, Nicholas, Emily, Kyle, Kelcee, Skyler, Jay Michael, Bryce, Miranda, Bonnie Jo, Samantha, Taylor, and Zarren and 9 great grandchildren: Waylon, Wesley, Wade, Lily Marie, Ella Rose, Zeppline, Halen, Charlotte, and Isaac.

JoAnn has always told her children she did not want to have a funeral. We have always told her that we would hold one anyway. So she took it one step further and passed during COVID 19 restrictions so we are forced to let her have her way.  There will be a private viewing for immediate family only due to COVID 19 restrictions. It will be held in Mesa, Arizona April 2020. A graveside service will follow at the Mesa Cemetery.

Bunker Family Funeral Home at 33 N Centennial Way, Mesa, Arizona 85201 is handling the arrangements.

On Tuesday, April 1st, 2020, Vivian Kelly Dredge, loving wife and mother of five children, passed away at the age of 90 at Living Legacy Care Center in Mesa, AZ.

Vivian was born on October 16, 1929 in Idaho Falls, Idaho to Warren Snow Tew and Vera Hill Tew. She was the 8^th of 9 children. A large part of Vivian’s childhood was during the depression era, but she was blessed to live on a farm in Shelley, Idaho where she found great contentment living with her large family whom she loved dearly. She was especially close to her younger sister Inez and people often thought they were twins. They remained best friends throughout their lives.  

Vivian attended Stanton School, a two-room schoolhouse, where she had wonderful teachers and received a good education. Vivian loved to read and often read above her age level.

She graduated from Shelley High School in 1948 where she was active in glee club, student body presidency, student council and cheerleading.  Vivian also attended BYU Idaho (Ricks College) and Brigham Young University.

On December 2^nd, 1950, Vivian married Joseph Mulliner Kelly, her high school sweetheart. They farmed and ranched in Blackfoot, Idaho until 1963 when they moved to Las Vegas, NV. They eventually moved to Bakersfield, CA in 1967 and Mesa, AZ in 1973. They raised 5 children: Marsha, Julia, Carol, David and Laura.

In December of 1981 Vivian suffered a great loss when Joseph passed away suddenly at age 51. Many challenges and blessings came to Vivian during this time. She attended Mesa Community College and received an Associate Degree in General Studies in 1982. She achieved her real estate license in 1989. She worked as a real estate agent for several years.

Vivian’s sisters Reba and Inez were very supportive during this time. They spent time in each other’s homes and embarked on wonderful traveling adventures together including Tonga, Hawaii, New England and the Holy Land.  

In May of 1997, Vivian’s sister Inez was suffering with renal failure, and she needed a kidney donor. Vivian, a perfect match, lovingly and willingly gave her kidney to her almost twin sister. They were the oldest patients that had ever been approved for a kidney transplant in the Salt Lake City hospital.

Three weeks later, May 24, 1997, Vivian and Roy Dredge from Goshen, Idaho, were married. They lived in Star Valley, Wyoming and Washington, Utah. They served a Member Location Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 2001-2003. In 2008, Roy passed away from complications following a stroke. Vivian has always expressed gratitude for Roy’s fine qualities and the wonderful years they enjoyed together.

Vivian was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving throughout her life in various positions including primary presidency member, primary chorister, music director and ordinance worker in the Mesa, AZ Temple.

Vivian had a love for music and had a beautiful singing voice. She was a wonderful homemaker, seamstress and cook.  She is known for her kind and compassionate spirit and her love of Jesus Christ. Vivian was a farm girl at heart and always longed to be there once again.

Vivian is loved by all who knew her, and she will be dearly missed.

 Survivors include her children, Marsha Ann (Chad) Payne of Payson, AZ, Julia Irene (Otis) McLaws of Mesa AZ, Carol Marie (Kevin) Buchanan of Surprise AZ, David Joel (Shelley) Kelly of Tooele UT, and Laura Jo Kelly of Mesa, AZ, 9 grandchildren and 17 great- grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Joseph Mulliner Kelly; her 2^nd husband, Roy Dredge; a grandson Joseph McLaws; a great-grandson Hunter Wells; four sisters; and four brothers.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2020, at Bunker Family Funeral Home, 33 N Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ 85201. Due to the COVID-19 virus, funeral services will be limited and by invitation-only.

Burial will be in the Mesa City Cemetery.  

Born on May 25^th, 1948 in Chico, California the daughter of two wwII veteran’s. Mary lived most of her life in California, Nevada and Washington State. In the year 2000 Mary moved to Mesa, Arizona to be close to her eldest son. She soon after took a job at the local downtown hardware store. For over twelve years she was always that friendly helpful face at the door to greet customers. She retired in 2012 after a surprise diagnosis of kidney cancer. A true warrior she battled cancer for three years and in 2015 was given a cancer free diagnosis. She and her family celebrated with a trip to Kauai, Hawaii.  Then in early 2019 a pain in Mary’s lower back proved to be the return of the cancer, this time in her spine. Again the warrior was determined to fight. But the cancer spread too quickly and was soon untreatable. Mary died at her home surrounded by her family in Mesa, Arizona on March 20^th, 2020 after a yearlong battle.

Mary Anna Green was a brave amazing woman who loved and cherished her family and friends. Holidays were her favorite. Mary’s home was always alive with light, warmth, and love. Strong, diligent, smart, funny, and reliable. Always that caring voice of reason. She will truly be missed by so many. Known as Nana, Grandma, Great Grammie, Mom, Best Friend, and Mary.  Her bright light will continue to shine in her loved ones : Ron Mallonee of Scottsdale, AZ , David Gibson of Mesa, AZ ,  David & Mary Green of Harmony, PA ,  Alissa Lauria of Seattle, WA , Lexi Mallonee of Scottsdale, AZ , Cameron & Abigail Green of Harmony, PA. Vincent Gibson of Seattle, WA, Trey and Cora Lauria of Seattle, WA, Jule Green “her puppy” of Mesa, AZ

It is with deep sadness and amazement that we announce the passing of our incredible mother, Barbara Amussen Benson Walker on March 26, 2020.  We thought and hoped that she would live forever through sheer, cheerful force of will.  Mom passed away peacefully at her daughter Heather and Dr. Paul R. Sandstrom’s home in Mesa, AZ surrounded by her loved ones singing her into the heavenly choir at the age of 85.  She was joyfully greeted as she passed through the veil of mortality by her beloved husband, the late Dr. Robert H. Walker (Bob), her parents and loved ones.

Barbara will never be forgotten by her posterity:  her five “perfect” children, Flora (Larry) Spackman of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, Heather (Paul) Sandstrom of Mesa, Arizona, Laurel (David) Udall of Lindon, Utah, Robert (Joni) Walker of Honolulu, Hawaii and Bountiful, Utah, and Holly (Karl) Tilleman of Phoenix, Arizona.  She and Bob are blessed with 25 “Awesome Blossom” grandchildren:  Beth (Stuart) Thompson, Mary Anne (Nelson) Kroeker, Sara (Dustin) Johnson, Holly (David) Melchin, Grant (Chelsa) Spackman, Erica (Alan) Soelberg, Ryan (Karen) Sandstrom, Alexis (BJ) Gremillion, Walker (Lauren) Sandstrom, Ashlyn (Brady) Fenn, Barbara Jo (Garrett) Hatch, Christine (Rock) Hull, Robert (Brian) Matheny, Rachel (Jon) Hughes, Janelle (Kyle) Palmer, Louisa (Hayden) Clasby, Derek (Amanda) Walker, Justin (Tatum) Walker, McKenna (Austin) Bush, Jacob Walker, Karl B. (Jessica) Tilleman, Daniel (Becca) Tilleman, Mary (Brandon) Caywood, Michael (Julie) Tilleman and Sarah Tilleman. Barbara adored each and every one of their 52 brilliant great-grandchildren (with four more percolating in utero) and while Barbara would love to have each one named, it will take up far too much room. She is also survived by her three beloved sisters, Beverly Parker, Bonnie (Lowell) Madsen, Beth (David) Burton, and sister-in-law, May Benson.

She was predeceased by her devoted and brilliant husband, her adored parents, her protective and loving older brothers, Reed and Mark Benson, sister-in-law, Lela Benson, and brother-in-law, James Parker.

Barbara was born June 20, 1934, the eldest daughter of President Ezra Taft and Flora Benson, the third of six children.

Barbara was born in Boise, ID when her father was working for the State of Idaho as an agricultural county agent.  When Barbara was four years old, the Benson family moved to Washington, DC. (for the first time.) In 1943, her father was called to be an Apostle in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  This necessitated the family’s move to Salt Lake City, Utah where Mom resided until her marriage.  Mom’s childhood was spent in an idyllic family.  Growing up with siblings Reed, Mark, Beverly,  Bonnie and Beth, their home was filled with love, learning, laughter and lullabies.

Barbara graduated from East High School in Salt Lake City where she served as President of the East High School Associated Girls Association and the Seminary Student body Vice-President.  She attended the University of Utah for one year where she served as the freshman class Vice President.  When her parents moved back to Washington, DC for her Dad to serve in US President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s cabinet as Secretary of Agriculture, it was decided (not by Mom!) that she needed to attend BYU.  After much “discussion”, Mom acquiesced and left the U of U for BYU.  She ended up loving her three years at BYU where she studied Home Economics.  She was voted “friendliest girl on campus” (WHAT?!!!! Of course!!!) and she dazzled as the BYU Homecoming Queen in 1954.  She worked at Deseret Book during the summer months. She later served on the National BYU Alumni Board.

Barbara was unforgettable!  Her personality was bigger than life; she literally filled every room!  She had a joyful, commanding presence and a megawatt smile adorned with bright red lipstick which she was eager to share on unsuspecting cheeks!  She was the most fun, upbeat, optimistic, encouraging, generous, positive and grateful person – ever! She could find the good in any situation.  Mom’s vehicle of choice was a convertible which she drove with panache and style – even in the middle of harsh Canadian winters, with kids piled in the back seat covered in blankets!  As a powerful force of nature, she used her talents for awesome!  One granddaughter called her a “human Disneyland!”  Her enthusiastic personality made her the consummate hostess, as generous with her hospitality as she was with her talents. She loved Christmas with all her heart and decorated her homes to the max.  The Walker home was open for any meeting, fireside, and party, complete with delicious refreshments.  She was friends with everyone she met.  She loved the quote:  “Blessed are they who have the gift of making friends; the power of going out of one’s self and appreciating whatever is noble and loving in another.”  (Thomas Hughes 1822-1896) As Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said recently, “Everyone needs a dose of Barbara Walker every day!”

One can not think of Barbara Benson Walker without remembering her deep love of music and her powerful coloratura soprano voice which she most generously shared right up until the week before she passed away. She started singing lessons at the age of 13, and from then on, she trilled her way through life!  The last two weeks of mortality, she was surrounded constantly by her family as they sang to her in person and through video calls – and she sang with us!

Barbara’s first calling in the church was ward chorister at the age of 8, accomplished by standing on a chair, in the Chevy Chase ward in Bethesda, Maryland.  She took piano and voice lessons for many years.  Her singing accomplishments were prodigious, but to name a few of the highlights:  She adored quartet singing for years with her dear friends, Carma Florence, Hope Swendsen and Cathy Whitehead.  She sang the soprano lead in several operas in Calgary, including The Impressario and The Merry Widow at the Jubilee Auditorium, and she soloed personally for two presidents of the United States, President Dwight D. Eisenhower and President Richard Nixon and their wives.  In Barbara’s words, “A highlight of my musical life was to be requested by President Gordon B. Hinckley and President Thomas S. Monson to sing a solo at the solemn assembly at General Conference in the Tabernacle when my dearly beloved father, President Ezra Taft Benson, was sustained by the entire church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, as the prophet of the Lord, prophet, seer and revelator on April 6, 1986.  I sang one of my dear father’s favourite, “O Divine Redeemer” by Charles Gounod, accompanied on the Tabernacle organ by Robert Cundick.”   With all her musical accomplishments, Mom wrote in her personal history, “My most important role is that of wife and mother and singing lullabies to my children.” We are so grateful for the nightly lullabies she sang to us every night right before our prayers.

Mom and Dad were married in the Salt Lake City temple on 29 September 1955.  They were introduced by their parents.  Dad was an accomplished surgeon in Calgary.  Mom was on tour – and soloing – with the BYU Madrigal Singers when the choir came to Calgary to perform.  Grandpa and Grandma Benson flew to Calgary from Washington, DC and Grandma Fannye Walker drove up from Raymond, Alberta to facilitate this momentous introduction backstage.  After the concert, their mothers accompanied doctor Dad on a house call.  As Dad later said, “Our mothers  were in the backseat planning the wedding and I was in the front seat trying to remember her name!” Mom moved to Calgary and their happy union lasted 43 years until Bob’s death in 1998, although through their temple covenants, we are deeply grateful they are sealed together for eternity.

Of all Mother’s roles and talents, the one she poured her heart and soul into was that of being an excellent mother.  We children lovingly refer to her as our “divine drill sergeant.”  Mom and Dad had exceptionally high standards for us in everything we did.  And we did a lot.  As children, besides our school work and church service, we were put in almost every lesson and activity available to children growing up in Calgary:  piano, organ, swimming, diving, scuba diving, synchronized swimming, tennis, badminton, figure skating/hockey, hula dancing, ballet, Scottish dancing, art lessons, horseback riding, hiking, choir, typing, sewing, piano and vocal trios, swim team, volleyball, basketball, rugby and football. We are grateful for the hours Mom spent driving us everywhere; we had fun honing our skills (or lack thereafter) especially at The Glencoe Club.  Of all the lessons, piano and organ were probably where Mom’s tenaciousness was most focused. In hindsight, we are intensely grateful for the skills we learned. Because of Mom and Dad’s intense encouragement and support, all of their children received at least one university degree.  Extended family was also incredibly important to Mom and Dad and their home was always open to our sweet cousins for however long the need. Precious family relationships were made and solidified as time was spent at the Raymond and Calgary Stampede, and at their homes in Midway, Utah, Mesa, Arizona, and Waterton Lakes National Park.  Dad and Mom felt strongly that Sunday dinners were a sacred family bonding time, and the decades-long tradition of Mom’s Alberta roast beef Sunday dinners were always a highlight of the week, where tummies were filled and where we all became best friends.

Mom served continually in the community and in the church.  While she said she loved living in Canada, she had a ferocious love of the United States of America. The American flag was always flying – even in Canada.  She recently proclaimed that her true loves were her faith, family, freedom, food, and Fox News!  She lead the music in her congregation, served as ward music chairman and directed the choir for literally decades.  Every music calling in the church had her name on it.  In addition, she taught in Sunday School, Primary, Young Women and Relief Society and had many leadership positions on the ward and stake levels.  Her lasting legacy was one of a loving, faithful and consistent Visiting Teacher. She loved the sisters she was asked to minister to, never missing a monthly visit while bearing delicious treats for 60+ years. She was a proud member of the Daughters of the Utah Pioneers and her Salt Lake Fine Arts Group. The crowning calling in her life of service was her weekly assignment in the Salt Lake City temple – for 19 years – working in the Youth Center.  She loved tending and singing with the children ages newborn to 18 years old as they waited to be sealed to their parents. She has been an enthusiastic and fearless missionary her whole life!  She loves the gospel of Jesus Christ and strived daily to serve others the Lord had put in her path.  She was so proud of the missionary force of her children and grandchildren who have served full-time missions, including her children who have been currently serving:  daughter, Laurel and Dave Udall as Public Affairs missionaries in Los Angeles, California and son, Robert and Joni Walker as Mission President and companion in the Honolulu Hawaii mission.  Her missionary successes were prodigious.

Mom was a faithful and devoted wife to her sweetheart, Bob.  She was incredibly supportive of Dad’s professional pursuits, including moving her growing family to Edmonton, Alberta and Cleveland, Ohio for Dad to become a cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon.  We children never heard Mom complain when Dad was busy with his constant church callings, including the first Bishop of the Calgary 5th ward, President of the Calgary Stake and Regional Representative.  Indeed, they served the Lord valiantly side-by-side.  When Dad became ill with congestive heart failure, she nurtured him constantly during the two years preceding his death.  After Dad died, she sold the beloved family home on Prospect Avenue in Calgary and moved to Salt Lake City, Utah where she lived until two years before her death.  She always said she loved Canada and being close to daughter, Flora and Larry and their children, but her heart truly belonged to Utah.  She thrived in Salt Lake City, surrounded by many of her progeny, siblings and friends.  She loved being in close proximity to daughter, Laurel and Dave Udall, and son, Robert and Joni Walker, and their families in Utah.   She spent over 20 years attending her grandchildren’s concerts, games, and graduations during her widowed years.  Mom attended every grandchild’s missionary farewell, homecoming and marriage – with Dad looking down from heaven.  In 2004, Bishop Bruce R. Christensen of the Salt Lake City 21st ward sent this birthday greeting to Mom:  Dear Barbara, How blessed we are to have you as a member of the 21st ward.  Your great gift of music lifts our spirits each Sunday.  Your many selfless acts of kindness to those who need a lift show us how to serve.  You are a spiritual giant and a great Church treasure.  Thank you for being so thoughtful and kind to me personally.  Thank you for showing us how to raise such a strong, exemplary, eternal family.  I wish you the best of everything in the days ahead.”  After a mild stroke in 2018, Barbara moved to Mesa, Arizona to live with her daughter, Heather, and husband, Dr. Paul R. Sandstrom.

Mom’s last two years in Arizona were “heaven on earth!” as she reminded us every day. She sang constantly for two years straight, with her daughters accompanying her, having a song for every conversation.  She sang regularly in the Estate Groves ward choir with Heather.  The Primary children loved her as she sat next to Heather by the piano each week, singing her heart out.  One of her favourite things to do in Arizona was to attend the plays, concerts, recitals and sporting events of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She has been the ultimate cheerleader!  She loved Fridays with all her heart to be with her daughter, Holly – to go together to lunch and Mom’s hair and nail appointments, and spend time with Holly and Karl’s family.  There was nothing she loved better than to sing in the homes of her family members or cruise around with Heather in her convertible, singing at the top of her lungs!  As a family, we are eternally indebted to Heather and Paul and their family for their never-ending and constant service to Mom, willingly done with cheerful hearts and deep love.  We are so grateful for her “perfect pal,” Henrietta Moho, her devoted in-home care provider for the past two years.

A constant guiding force in Barbara’s life was her deep love of the Savior and the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.  She and Dad made every effort to make sure that their family was built upon upon a “sure foundation.”  Their consistency in family prayers, Family Home Evening, devotion to the Lord through their constant and diligent church service helped their children love the Lord as is evidenced by their children’s constant and energetic service in their various assignments.  “The abundant life noted in the scriptures is the spiritual sum that is arrived at by the multiplying of our service to others and by investing our talents in service to God and man.”  (Spencer W. Kimball) By this definition, Barbara has lived an “abundant life” to the fullest.  We know she is continuing to share her friendliness, her exuberant personality, her many talents and her unfailing testimony! The heavenly choirs just gained a supernal, spectacular soprano!

“And I soon go to the place of my rest, which is with my Redeemer; for I know that in him I shall rest.  And I rejoice in the day when my mortal shall put on immortality, and shall stand before him; then shall I see his face with pleasure, and he will say unto me: Come unto me, ye blessed, there is a place prepared for you in the mansions of my Father.” (Enos 1:27 from The Book of Mormon, Another Testament of Jesus Christ.)

Barbara’s funeral service will be broadcast on Friday, April 10 at 11:00 am (Arizona time.) Relatives and friends are invited to view Barbara’s funeral service by logging into

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Internment will take place in the Benson family plot in Whitney, Idaho at a later date, tentatively scheduled for 20 June 2020 (her 86th birthday) when the world is hopefully a less topsy turvy place!

A Facebook page has been set up “Remembering Barbara Walker.”  We would appreciate if photos and memories can be posted of Barbara for her family.

Katherine Alyse Pindar (19) passed away Thursday, March 12, 2020, in Houston, Texas while serving a proselyting mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  She was born in Allen, Texas on May 14, 2000 and moved to Mesa, Arizona when she was 4 years old.

Katherine was active in band, playing the saxophone and was involved in track and on swim teams before graduating from Dobson High School in 2018.  She attended Eastern Arizona College in Thatcher, Arizona for one year prior to her missionary service.  Katherine enjoyed music, hiking, dogs, and planning her next adventure.

Katherine was excited to serve a mission for the church and was so happy to go to her home state when she was assigned to serve in the Houston Texas East Mission beginning August 2019.   She LOVED being a missionary, speaking Spanish and being in Texas.

She is survived by her parents, John & Sara Pindar, siblings Jonathon, Amy and Asher.  Her grandmother Edna Christensen, an uncle, Mel (Debby) Christensen, and four aunts, Jeanne (Nickoli) Eilertsen, Lisa (Jason) Nicoll, Emily (Russell) Matheny and Suzanne Pindar.  She is preceded in death by three grandparents, Albert Christensen, Wellington and Nancy Pindar, her uncle, Wayne (Margie) Christensen, and her aunt, Paula Christensen.

She will be buried in the Mesa City Cemetery.  www.bunkerfuneral.com

Elden Spencer Porter passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by family, on March 24, 2020. He was born in Prescott, Arizona on March 23, 1927, the fourth of seven children born to Gladys Vivian Despain Porter and Cyril Vickory Porter. His siblings are Gwen, Lynn, Cyril, {Elden} Lylia, Newell and Robert.

In 1931 the family moved to the Bowler Ranch, five miles north of Heber, Arizona, where he grew up during the Depression years. They planted crops of corn, wheat and oats to grow and harvest, had animals to take care of, and burros to help bring in the wood for their needs through the winters. This was a time when everyone had to work together to survive and in reality, are treasured memories and great teachers of hard work and faith, building strong family ties and love.

Elden was 8 years old when his father died, leaving his mother a young 34-year-old widow, with 7 children to raise. He had to grow up fast, and he learned to be the great man that he is through the faith and teachings of his dear mother.

Elden attended grade-school, which was held in a neighbor’s home, high school for 2 years in Mesa, Arizona and 2 years in Prescott, Arizona where he graduated with honors in 1945. During the summer between his junior and senior years, he worked for an uncle in Heber, Arizona. “The pay was quite good”, he said, enough for him to buy a 1931 Model A convertible for $25 and keep it full of gas- meaning, he no longer had to walk the 2 miles each way to school and back. He graduated as an outstanding athlete, was president and salutatorian of his senior class.

Elden served in the Armed forces from 1945 through 1947, stationed in the Philippines and Japan in the mop up operations of World War II.

On June 27, 1948 Elden married Patsy Ruth Howard from Prescott, Arizona. He lived the rest of his life (over 71 years) with his beautiful girl who captured his heart.

Elden worked for Arizona Public Service Company, and in 1954 was transferred from Prescott, Arizona to San Manuel, Arizona. In 1958 he was promoted to Flagstaff, Arizona as assistant area manager, then to Mesa, Arizona and finally Show Low, Arizona. He had progressed from lineman to area manager in the company.

Elden had a lifelong love and involvement in scouting. He took two different troops of Boy Scouts to the National Scouting Jamboree in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania and later in his life was given Scoutings highest honor for adult volunteers, the “Silver Beaver” award.

Close friends would call him “Port”, an appropriate nickname. He was a mentor, guide and stay to many, young and old. Any who felt lost or adrift could find anchor and respite in his friendship and love. The qualities he learned from his mother of industry, endurance, tenacity, perseverance, dependability, patience and love were shared with many in his service, both in church and community. He is remembered by many of the boys he coached in Little League Kiwanas and other community service organizations and served faithfully in his church callings including Scoutmaster, seminary teacher, Bishop, Stake President and Stake Patriarch.

He was loved by all who knew him and will be greatly missed. Elden is survived by his dear wife, Patsy, his sister, Lylia Carlisle Nelson, sons Michael, Richard, Ron, Von, Steve and Gary and daughter Connie. He leaves 33 grandchildren, 72 great- grandchildren, and 1 great- great- granddaughter.

Don Leo Calder age 93, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away on Thursday, March 26, 2020 incident of age.

Don was the second son of eight children born to Leo and Lucile (Hacking) Calder in Vernal, Utah July 7, 1926.  He had a vivid childhood especially loving Diamond Mountain. He graduated in 1944 from Uintah High School in Vernal.  He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served in WWII from 1944-1946. He served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints to the Northern California Mission from 1948-1950.

After returning home from his years of service, he attended Utah State University and Brigham Young University (graduating from BYU with a BS in August 1952) where he met and married his sweetheart Marilyn Pearl Cardon on October 1, 1952 in the Mesa, Arizona Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints temple.  At the time of his death they had been married for 67 years. Within these years their family grew to 6 children, 30 grandchildren and 69 great-grandchildren.

Don was an industrious man and worked hard all of his life to provide for his family.  He had many talents and used them throughout his various careers: dairy farmer, builder, real estate, inventor, artist, entrepreneur.  He owned his own businesses– Calder Dairy and Calder Building Company. He was curious, an avid learner and solved problems through his creations.  His signature quality was to make things strong and to last. He was blessed with a beautiful tenor voice and played the harmonica. He loved the Tabernacle Choir on Temple Square.

Don was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and served multiple callings and missions.  He served three with his wife including Adam-ondi-Ahman, Guatemala/Mexico and West Virginia. His faith never faltered and he leaves a legacy with a strong belief in his Savior, Jesus Christ and that he would see his family again.  He said, “The most important thing that I leave this world is a good family. Nothing else really matters to me.”

Don is survived by his wife, Marilyn Pearl Cardon Calder.  Six Children: Lucile Kellis (Brent) Mesa, Arizona; Susan Henshaw (Vernon) Lehi, Utah; Brent Calder (Ann) Taylorsville, Utah; Kristine Galati (Richard) Columbia, South Carolina; Ilene Strong (Gregory) Eagle Mountain, Utah; Donna Call (Stephen) Snohomish, Washington.  Grandchildren (28) and Great-Grandchildren (67). He is preceded in death by his parents, five siblings, one granddaughter, one grandson, one great-granddaughter, and two great-grandsons.

A private family graveside service will be held Monday, March 30, 2020 at the Mesa City Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Humanitarian Aid of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  The family would like to express appreciation to Arizona’s Best Hospice at Home and Jim & Patti Jones Assisted Living Homes where he received excellent care

Mildred R. Quill, 96, of Mesa passed away on Wed., March 25, 2020 at Oasis-Fellowhip Square.  She was born on Jan. 14, 1924 in Summerville, Massachusetts, to the Late Medore Robichaud and Eva (Girouard) Robichaud.

Her childhood was spent in MA>.  During W.W. 2 she worked at M.I.T..  She met James L. Quill during church dinners provided to the serviceman.  She accepted Jesus as her Savior at age 16 and for the rest of her life she walked closely with the Lord.  She was baptized at age 16 upon her confession of faith.

Mildred married James Quill in MA. On Jan. 19, 1946.  To this union were born Martha Ruth 5/8/1948 and Stephen John 5/12/1953.  She was a very loving mother and was able to stay at home to raise her family.  She was also a great encourager.

After her husband retired from Shell Oil Co. in CA., they purchased a trailer and began doing ministry at Kentucky Mountain Mission & Camp for many years.  They also volunteered at Gospel Recordings in Los Angeles while they attended Church of the Open Door with Pastor J. Vernon McGee.  While at Ponderosa Baptist Church is Payson, where they spent 15 years, both Mildred & Jim did volunteering at their church.

One of her great loves was the many years she participated in Bible Studies, including at Oasis.  She had many precious friendships everywhere she lived.

Grateful for having shared her life are her daughter Martha Schroeder of Chandler, AZ., son Steve Quill  of Lake Forest, CA., Granddaughter Judy Green & Ryan of Loveland, CO., Grandson Jim Schroeder of Chandler, AZ., and 4 great grandchildren.

Craig Leon Powell was born on 21 April 1955 in Mesa, Arizona to Roy and Dixie Powell. He died on 22 March 2020 in Mesa, Arizona.  He was the 6^th of 11 children.  He was married to Jacqueline Ann Pagani in Mesa, Arizona in 1980.  They had two children, Elizabeth Ann Powell and Jonathan Craig Powell.  They divorced in 1987.  He married Collette Myrna Gleed in 1993 and adopted a son, Jameson Lee Powell (James) in 1999.  He was divorced from Collette in 2010.

Craig was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints his entire life and went on a mission to Denmark in 1974 -1976. Craig graduated from EAC in 1976, attended ASU spring of  1977 and summer of 1980. He died with a testimony of  Jesus Christ and was loved by his family and friends.  He is survived by daughter Elizabeth Ann Powell (Christian Spindler), granddaughter, Elisabeth Abigail Spindler, grandson, David Jonathan Spindler, son  Jonathan Craig Powell (Erin Powell), granddaughter, Zelda Grace Powell, son Jameson Lee Powell,  mother Dixie Lee  Powell, brothers: John,  Richard, David, sisters: Karen, (Tony Carbine), Lora Lee, (David Hofmann), Donna  (Don Bradshaw), Denise.  (Paul Hamilton), Yvonne, (Paul Nickels), Elon, (Paul Simonson). 

Family members who previously passed: father, Roy and brother, Ronald. 

Longtime Tempe resident and Arizona native, Nova May Plumb Thompson, 86, passed away on  March 18, 2020.

Nova May Plumb Thompson was born April 6, 1933 in Globe, AZ, to Moses Presman Plumb and Unisa Victoria Mackey.  Nova married Lawson Kay Thompson on December 22, 1956.  Nova is survived by two sons, Scott Kay Thompson, and Kyle Lee Thompson, her brother Jack (Erlene) Plumb of Woodruff, AZ and her sister Cleo Phillip Salter of Law Crusas, NM.

Nova was a loving and kind caregiver.  She helped raise her siblings and was an excellent mother to her two children.  She was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day-Saints.  She quietly served many people in leadership positions as well as individually.  She never spoke poorly about anyone.  Prior to her husband’s death, they served together in the Mesa Family History Center and The Mesa Arizona Temple.  Her life and Christ-like charity touched many people who called her mother, Aunt, Sister and Friend.

She will be buried on Saturday March 28, 2020 at the Clay Springs Arizona Cemetery where a graveside service will be held at one p.m.

On March 19, 2020, La Verne Scott Done slipped from this life into the next following a brief battle with Pancreatic Cancer.

La Verne was born to  William Walter and Mary Scott on September 9, 1935 in Gilbert, Arizona. She is the second youngest of ten children. She is survived by her older sisters Thora Scott Cluff and Ina Scott Ray and younger brother Howard Scott, all three current residents of Mesa, Arizona.

On October 11, 1956 she and Reed E. Done were married in the Mesa Arizona Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They were blessed with five children – Brent Reed Done, Terri Done Miller, Todd Orin Done, Mark Barry Done, and Alan Scott Done. She and Reed were also foster parents to Louise Hascan Kinlecheeny of Chilchibito, Arizona and Deanna Doyle Gurr of Mesa, Arizona.

La Verne and Reed raised their family in Mesa, Arizona. She was active in her church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and served in multiple positions, her favorite being working with the children. In 2002, La Verne and Reed served a mission for their church in Puerto Rico where she served as the mission secretary. She and Reed were also responsible for working with small congregations on other islands in the Caribbean.

La Verne was a devoted mother and a librarian for the Tempe School District. In her 40’s La Verne decided to return to school and received her college degree graduating with honors. La Verne retired from the Tempe School District in 1992.

La Verne traveled between Arizona and Utah to see her grandchildren in Utah and extended family in the Kanab/Fredonia area. She was a devoted grandmother and a calm steady influence on her growing family. As one grandchild stated, “You never had a question if grandma loved you. She always accepted you for you.”

Throughout her life La Verne displayed a talent for sewing of all kinds. Quilting became her passion and every grandchild received a baby quilt upon their birth and bed quilt for their wedding. Additionally, each Christmas brought some sort of quilted surprise. Her husband Reed got involved as well by making a variety of jigs and tools to help her with her work.

While family was her number one love in life, her devotion to her faith and her love of Jesus Christ was the guiding light in her life. She exemplified this love through her daily actions and the counsel she gave her children and grandchildren. Her soft-spoken guidance was ever present – even in instances where others may have been more vocal.

La Verne is survived by her husband Reed, her five children, 17 grandchildren, and 25 great grandchildren.

Due to restrictions on gatherings as a result of the COVID 19 virus, there will not be a formal funeral. A small service for her immediate family will be held. Her interment will be at the Mesa City Cemetery.

Marilyn “Joyce” (Carlson) Staebell, born on September 16th 1935 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to the late Floyd and Helen Carlson, passed away at age 84 on March 16th 2020 in Mesa Arizona.

Known as Joyce her whole life, she was preceded in death by her loving husband of 46 years, Eugene “Gene” Charles Staebell; sister, Marcia K. Carlson; and grandson, Ronald Eugene Staebell. She is survived by her daughters; Kathleen J. Keyworth (Michael) of Granger Indiana, Connie J. Frenell (Peter) of Ada Michigan, and sons; Daniel L. Staebell (Linda) of Lansing Michigan, and Ronald E. Staebell (Terri) of Mesa Arizona. Twelve grandchildren; Joshua Staebell (Whitney), Nicholas Staebell (Ali), Amber Pitts (Sandoval), Elyse Staebell, Dani Appicelli (Anthony), Christopher Keyworth, Ryan Keyworth, Shannon Keyworth, Shawn Keyworth, Daniel Keyworth, Matthew Keyworth, Hannah Keyworth; ten great-grandchildren and one brother Reuben Carlson.

Joyce has been attending the Phoenix Bible Students class since she moved to Arizona in 1945. She became a member of the Mesa Mahnah Club in 1965, and to name just a few projects: she volunteered many hours at the Maricopa County Well Baby Clinic, delivered Meals on Wheels, and served on the committee that was instrumental in the start up of the Child Crisis Center in Mesa. Joyce also volunteered as a troop leader for the Girl Scouts and sold Home Interiors for several years. She enjoyed doll collecting, and was a longtime member of the Valley of the Sun Doll Club. Her other hobbies were: oil painting, ceramics, sewing, golf, and bowling.

Joyce is so loved by her family and will be dearly missed.

A memorial will be announced at a later date due to the current health crisis and health restrictions. A private gravesite service for the family will be on Tuesday March 24th 2020. Bunker Family Funeral Garden Chapel, 33 North Centennial Way, is taking care of arrangements (480) 964-8686.

Theresa Pepe (nee Auletta) of Mesa, AZ and formerly of New Rochelle, NY passed away on March 16, 2020 at the age of 100.  She was born in New York, NY on January 29, 1920. Theresa was predeceased by her beloved husband, Carmine Pepe in May of 2003. They were only days away from their 64^th wedding anniversary.  She was predeceased by her husband, Carmine, her brothers George and Anthony Auletta, and her son Vincent A Pepe.

Theresa is survived by her loving daughter, Frances and her son-in-law Daniel Burbank;  her dear sister Rita Chirello of Fulton NY and her brother Pasquale Auletta of the Bronx, NY; her grandchildren, Jeff (Jennifer) Walker, Bill Walker, Cherie Lynn Bottone and Vincent Pepe; her great-grandchildren Jason Walker, Adrianna and Amanda Bottone, Kati Keeler and Jessica Walker.

She was also predeceased by her brothers George and Anthony Auletta, and her son Vincent A Pepe.

Theresa was known for the joy she brought to everyone she ever encountered.  She maintained the most gracious, uplifting “pure spirit” that was so infectious that no one could ever forget how kind, loving and caring she was.  She will be deeply and forever missed by her friends and family.

She will be entombed at Ferncliff Cemetery in Hartsdale, NY

Ida Allene Gibson, 79- of Chandler, Arizona passed away March 16^th 2020 following a brief illness.

Allene was born to Floyd Allan Hill and Ida Ione Graham on May 6, 1940. She spent most of her childhood and teen years in Del City Texas. She attended BYU in Provo Utah for a short period before her marriage to her 1^st husband, Jess Morrow. They had one daughter. She later married Gail Alton Gibson, and they had 3 sons. She was as devoted mother and homemaker, whose passion was her family. As an army wife, she enjoyed the experience of living in new places with her family -especially Hawaii, and Germany. She loved to crochet, needlepoint, and paint. She also enjoyed cooking, and collected recipes from different countries. She has a strong testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and enjoyed ministering to others in any way that she could. She is preceded in death by her parents, 1 sister and 3 brothers. She is survived by her brother, Charles “Bob” Johnson, and her sister, Susanne King, as well as her children, Michelle (Curtis) Bond, Eric (Ronda) Gibson, Kevin (Rose) Gibson, and Ryan (Heidi) Gibson. Her descendants also include 17 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. A family graveside memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 21.

Mary Lou Vickman passed away on March 17, 2020 in the Banner Heart Hospital, Mesa, Arizona, after a long fight with cancer. She was born to Raymond Burton Rubeck and Coralynn Idella (Brown) Rubeck in Machias, New York on August 12, 1942.

She graduated from the Ten Broeck Academy in Franklinville, NY and started her career as a Legal Secretary for a law firm in Arcade, NY in 1960. She married Dale A Vickman on July 13, 1963 in Farmersville Station, NY. They celebrated their 50th Anniversary in 2013. They have lived a happy life for 57 years.

Dale was in the Air Force and they soon moved to Georgia where she started her Government Civil Service career at Robins AFB, again as a secretary. In 1966 she accompanied Dale to Hahn AB, Germany where she was the secretary for the Base Commander. They resided in Kirchberg, Germany for 4 years before Dale was assigned to Williams AFB in Mesa, Arizona. While at Williams AFB she was secretary to the Commander of Maintenance. She remained in that position until Williams AFB closed. In 1996 she started as secretary for the Mesa Police Training Department in Mesa, Arizona. She retired from the police department in 2006.

Mary Lou was a sweet and caring person. People were drawn to her by her kindness and pleasant personality. She loved to shop for clothing and was a perfectionist in everything she did. She had a special knack of putting different colors of clothing together to give them the wow look. One of her favorite things was going out to dinner and she especially loved going out to lunch with her friends. She never complained throughout her illness and her favorite words were “I’m doing fine”.

Mary Lou was preceded in death by her parents, Burton and Cody Rubeck, father and mother in-law Albert and Vena Vickman, brothers, Jerry and Wayne, sister and husband Jeanne and Anthony Zoccalli. Brother and sister in-laws, Phillip Sampson, Robert and Jerry Vickman, Cecil and Margaret (Vickman) Goss. She is survived by her husband, a sister Cheryl Rubeck,a sister-in-law Mary Rubeck, brother and sister-in-laws, Patricia Sampson, Kenneth (Nancy) Vickman, Donna Vickman, Philip (Peggy) Vickman, and many nieces and nephews.

At Mary Lou’s request there will be no services. She will be cremated with no burial.

Bunker Family Funeral Services are handling the affairs.