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JOHN E. GUSTAFSON JR.

O C T O B E R  1 9 ,  1 9 4 0 –  F E B R U A R Y  9 ,  2 0 2 5

John Emil Gustafson Jr., 84, passed away peacefully on February 9th, 2025 in Gilbert, Arizona. He was born October 19, 1940 in Omaha, Nebraska.

He attended Benson High School and graduated from the University of Nebraska Omaha with a degree in civil engineering. He later moved to Kansas City, Missouri where he raised his family, and then retired in Mesa, Arizona after 30+ years in highway construction.

 John enjoyed swimming, golfing, fishing, sailing and playing cards. He had a tremendous love for golden retrievers and was also an avid Nebraska Cornhusker and Kansas City Chiefs fan. He was a loving, loyal husband and father.

He was baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at age 63. His conversion story touched the lives of an entire community. He served a family history mission and worked at the Bishop’s Storehouse.

He struggled with a variety of medical issues for many years and his family is grateful for his example of strength and endurance to stay with his family for as long as he did.

John is survived by his wife Judy, his children Jennifer Bergeson, Heather Hill (Tim), Julie Gustafson, April Corey, and 9 grandchildren.

A   Visitation will be held Friday, February 21^st, 2025, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 3920 E Brown Road, Mesa, AZ 85205

Flowers can be sent to the care of Bunker’s University Chapel at 3529 E University Dr, Mesa, AZ 85213 on Thursday 2/20 in the afternoon or Friday 2/21 in the morning.

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.

Troy and Elsie Garlock–Together Always

It is with deep sorrow and love that we announce the passing of Troy and Elsie Garlock on February 3, 2025, a devoted father and daughter whose lives were defined by love, faith, and family.

Troy Michael Garlock was born on March 5, 1982, in Mesa, Arizona, to Mike and Debbie Garlock. He grew up in Mesa and was full of life and energy. Troy was a talented athlete who participated in numerous sports, including skateboarding, wakeboarding, snowboarding, baseball, gymnastics, football, and basketball. He fiercely loved his family, especially his wife, Julie, with whom he built a life full of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion.

Troy attended Mesa High School, where he excelled in basketball. His passion for the game inspired him to coach multiple teams, but his greatest joy was passing that love on to his daughter, Hannah, whom he cherished watching as she grew into an outstanding high school player. He graduated from high school in 2000 and then served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Lansing, Michigan. His testimony of his Savior grew during this time, and he deeply loved the people he served.

After returning home, Troy married and had four children: Parker, Abigail, Hannah, and Jane. He talked about them to everyone and loved them with all his heart. Later, he met Julie, the love of his life, and they were married in October 2014. Julie had three daughters—Mallory, Lilly, and Claire—and together, Troy and Julie welcomed Elsie and Mabel, bringing their family to nine beautiful children.

Troy had a deep and abiding faith in the atonement of Jesus Christ which helped him overcome many earthly trials. Because of his love of the Savior, he had a strong desire to serve everyone around him. He served in many callings in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and had a strong testimony of the gospel, Jesus Christ, and the plan of salvation. He had great faith and was a wonderful teacher and speaker, always eager to share his beliefs with those around him.

Recently, Troy and Julie felt called to move their family to a plot of land in Show Low, Arizona, where Garlock Farm was born. They began gathering animals—goats, chickens, dogs, bunnies, and a horse—creating a home filled with adventure and love. Elsie adored farm life and her animals, finding joy in every moment.

Elsie Mae Garlock was born on July 22, 2016, and in her short life, she accomplished so much. She was an avid dancer, winning many awards in dance competitions. She loved to sing, create art projects, and be the best friend, sister, and daughter anyone could ask for. She lit up every room she entered with her bright spirit and had an unwavering faith in Christ. Her love for Him was evident in her prayers, where she spoke to Him from her heart and soul.

Troy and Elsie are survived by their loving wife and mother, Julie, and eight beloved children and siblings: Parker, Mallory, Abigail, Hannah, Lilly, Jane, Claire, and Mabel. Troy is also survived by his parents, Mike and Debbie Garlock, and his four siblings: Kasey (Rocky), Drew (Tiffany), Shawna (Jared), and Eric (Chelsea), along with many beloved nieces and nephews—cousins to Elsie—who will forever cherish their memories.

Together, Troy and Elsie created a beautiful legacy—one of love, resilience, faith, and family. Their devotion to each other and those around them was evident in all they did, serving as an inspiration to their loved ones and community.

There will be a visitation for Troy and Elsie on Friday Feb 14, 2025 from 6:00-8:00pm. Service will be on Feb 15, 2025 at 9:00am. Both will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 1865 S. Higley Rd. Gilbert, AZ 85295

For those unable to attend on Saturday, the service will be live-streamed by following this link: https://www.stvn.org/garlock

Donations to support Julie can be made at:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-garlock-family-after-tragic-loss?qid=fb7ad28e9200f186817e2a32d88971a1

Venmo @Julie-Garlock

May they rest in peace, together forever. FOREVER Loved!

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.

“Peppermint Patty”
February 13, 1933 – February 3, 2025

Patricia Ann Lockwood, lovingly known as “Peppermint Patty,” passed away peacefully on February 3, 2025, in Mesa, Arizona, just days before her 92nd birthday. She was born on February 13, 1933, in Norwood, Ohio, and lived a life full of adventure, love, and unwavering spirit.

Patricia shared many years on the road as a trucker alongside her late husband, Arnold Jessie Lockwood, before settling into a career at Earnhardt Dodge, where she later retired. In her retirement, she found joy in the simple yet meaningful moments—spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and hosting game nights filled with laughter and friendly competition.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Arnold Jessie Lockwood, her parents, Rosa Matilda Linnie Jackson and Hobert Delbert Jackson, and her sister, Betty “Rusty” Lee Blair.

She is survived by her daughter, Karen Edwards (Chris), and her son, James P. Finley. Her legacy lives on through her grandchildren, James Daniel Finley (Suzana), Rosalee Burrington, and Kasandra Bakken (Josh), as well as her cherished great-grandchildren, Adalynne and Trevin Bakken.

Fiercely independent and always full of spirit, Patricia was a woman who left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Her wisdom, feisty charm, and loving presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

In honor of her memory, the family encourages loved ones to gather, play a game, and share stories—just as she would have wanted.

A celebration of her life will be held at a later date which will be shared by the family.

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.

Henry Richard (Dick) Gustafson, 78 passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, in Mesa, Arizona.

Dick’s life was characterized by his unfailing optimism and faith. He had a passion for playing sports, watching his children and grandchildren compete/perform in various activities, and watching BYU sports.  Dick loved many things including road trips, motorcycles, semi-trucks, trains, leather working, and music; however, his greatest joys in life were his family and the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  He will be greatly missed. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Karen, his children Simon, Jake, Kary, Jess, Jody, Danny, Robyn, 28 grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter.

A viewing will be held February 18th from 6-8 PM at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ.  The funeral will be February 19th at 10:30 AM, preceded by a visitation at 9:30 AM at the LDS church at 1455 N. Harris Dr., Mesa, AZ. There will be a graveside service on Monday, February 24 at 11 AM at 1950 E Dimple Dell Rd., Sandy, 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.

Dale Rex Shumway passed away in the early morning hours of Thursday, January 23, 2025, at his home in Tempe, Arizona with his daughter Debra by his side. He was 94 years old. Dale was born at his parents’ farm/ranch in Taylor, Arizona on the 31^st day of May, 1930. He was the fourth child and first son of V. Rex and Elizabeth Solomon Shumway. As a youth, his father counted on him to do a “man’s” work, and work Dale could do.

He attended Taylor Elementary School and Snowflake Union High School. After three semesters at Arizona State College, he was called to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Western Canadian Mission which included the provinces of Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan. After returning from Canada, he married Naoma Fuller of Tempe, AZ in the Arizona Temple on April 10, 1952. They had met when Dale was attending Arizona State, and Naoma was a senior at Tempe High School.

After their marriage, Dale attended Brigham Young University for one semester and then returned to Arizona State where in 1954 he graduated with a B.S. degree in Agronomy. From 1954 until the fall of 1960, he was employed by Producers Cotton Oil Company in Maricopa and in Avra Valley.

In the fall of 1960, at the age of 30 (with a wife and five young children to support) Dale enrolled in the University of Arizona College of Law and graduated in 1963. He was employed as an Assistant Attorney General and as a Special Assistant for the State of Arizona until 1974.  In 1965 he joined with David K. Udall to form the law firm of Udall Shumway in Mesa, Arizona. He became a highly respected attorney and was admitted to practice before the State and Federal Courts in Arizona, the Circuit Courts in San Francisco and the District of Columbia, the United States Court of Claims and the Supreme Court of the United States of America.

In July of 1970 until 1974 Dale had the honor of serving as Mayor of Tempe, Arizona. He was also elected to the Board of Directors of the Central Arizona Water Conservation District (now the Central Arizona Project) and in 1983 was elected to serve as President of the Board.

Throughout his life, Dale’s love for his Savior Jesus Christ was exhibited by his commitment to serve in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served as a bishop, Mission President in the New York Rochester Mission, Regional Representative of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, director of the Mesa Arizona Temple Visitors’ Center, ordinance worker and sealer in the Arizona Temple and Patriarch in the Tempe Arizona University Stake.

Dale was pre-deceased by his dear wife Naoma. He so appreciated the influence she had on him and their five children. At the time of her passing in October 2023, she and Dale had been married for 71 years. This last year without her was Dale’s hardest trial in life. Dale was also pre-deceased by his parents, Elizabeth & Rex Shumway, his siblings, Ann (George) Woods, Shirley (Carl) Cole, Drew Shumway, Peter (Loretta) Shumway, his brother-in-law Wesley Bowman, and his great-grandson Joseph Thompson

Dale is survived by his five children: Debra Ann (Fred) Woods, Dale Rex II (Diane), Carolyn Ama (Barry) Dickerson, Catherine (Don) Ralph, and Matthew Fuller (Julie), his daughter-in-law Pattie Shumway, 22 grandchildren, 63 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to the above posterity, Dale is survived by his sister Mary Bowman, his brother Lane (Marylin) Shumway, his sister-in-law Joan Shumway Turley, many nieces and nephews, and countless dear friends.

Services will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 10:00a.m. at the Tempe Stake Center, 2707 S. College Ave., Tempe, AZ  85252. There will be a viewing at 9:00 a.m. To view the service remotely, please subscribe to the Alameda Ward YouTube channel at this link:  https://www.youtube.com/@friendsofthealamedaward3748

As per Dale’s request: “Please don’t bring flowers to my funeral. Save your money for whatever good causes you might have. Just come to my funeral and enjoy seeing each other.”

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.

In Loving Memory of Dorothy 

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dorothy Louise Cleaver, who left us peacefully on February 1, 2025. Miss Dorothy brought joy, warmth, and love to everyone fortunate enough to know her. She is survived by her mother Doris, sister Teresa, and brother Dan.

A celebration of Miss Dorothy’s life will be held at the Arizona Training Program facility 2800 Hwy 87, Coolidge, AZ 85128 on Friday, February 21, 2025 at 1pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Arizona Training Program and their staff, Dorothy’s home and daily caretakers for over 50 years. Contact Tonia at (520) 723-2600 or tschultz@azdes.gov for details.

Rest in peace, Miss Dorothy. You will always be missed but never forgotten.

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.

Christian T. Johnson, born on 10/02/1948 to William and Bertha Johnson, passed away on 1/31/25. Christian was proceeded in death by his parents and brother Dennis Johnson.

After graduating from Arlington H.S.

in Indianapolis, Indiana Christian went on to attend Northern Arizona University, before enlisting in the U.S. Navy. Christian proudly served aboard the USS Independence (CV-62) from 1968-1972, enjoying his time traveling abroad to numerous ports and countries.

Following his honorable discharge from the U.S. Navy, he began his career as an engineer in the aircraft industry and ultimately retiring from the Boeing Company.

Christian was married to his loving wife, Mary, whom he adored and loved for over 50 years, sharing in family, joy and laughter.

He loved and raised his four sons. Christian valued every moment with his sons. Not only teaching them, but showing them by example, how to be terrific husbands, fathers and men. Just as he was. Together, as a family, hunting, fishing, sailing, camping and traveling is what he treasured. Christian also cherished the time spent with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was always there for each and every one of his beloved family. Christian is survived by his Wife (Mary), Sister (Ginger Oliveira), Son’s (Ron, Ralph, Rudy, Christian) Grandchildren (Chynna, Oriana, Sondra, Ashley, Skylar, Alex, Alayna, Alyssa, Brooklyn, Annalyssa, Nadia, Marissa, Aidan, Jocelyn, Declan) and Great-Grandchildren (Layne, Rhett, Lorelei, Lanson, Loretta, Teddy, Jaxon, Keanu, Vivian, Payson, Remington, Lincoln, Noah, Levi, Linnie, Juliette) Christian will be truly missed by all.

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.

Damarya Dakembe Zyberi, 29, passed away on February 3, 2025 in Mesa, Arizona. Arrangement by Bunker’s Garden Chapel (480.964.8686)

Marlene Y Barton, age 87, passed away February 1, 2025 in Mesa AZ. Born in Grand Forks, ND, Marlene was the youngest of six children born to Louis and Nora Kubousek.

Marlene graduated from Central High School in 1955 and went on to work at UND, then the phone company.

She worked for the phone company in North Dakota, California, Colorado and Arizona. She retired from the phone company in 1999. To keep busy, Marlene enjoyed ceramics and decorating tee shirts and sweatshirts. She did beautiful work and sold many of her pieces of each.

Marlene is survived by her grandsons, Nick Fortin, Buckfield ME; Jack Fortin, Mesa AZ; three great granddaughters, a niece, and four nephews. She was pre-deceased by her parents, siblings, son, Charles Barton and daughter, Melissa Fortin.

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.

Shelley Lynn Christiansen passed away at her home in Gilbert, Arizona on February 2, 2025, at the age of 81.  She was born on August 27, 1943 in San Antonio, Texas to Kenneth and Dorothy Jackson.

She married Stephen Christiansen in the Oakland California Temple on November 22, 1966.  They settled in Tempe, Arizona and raised their 4 children.

Shelley is survived by her husband Stephen and their children: Richard (deceased) and (Dawn) of Gilbert, Arizona; Vicki (Sean) of Corona, California; Kayleen (Stephen) of Gilbert, Arizona; Scott of Lake Havasu City, Arizona.

Shelley is survived by her sister Frances of Georgetown, Texas; brothers: Kenneth (Patricia) of Leander, Texas; Robert (Julie) of Round Rock, Texas.  She was preceded in death by her parents and son Richard.

Shelley has 18 grandchildren and 5 great- grandchildren.

Shelley was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and shared her talent of playing the piano for their congregation.

Viewing is scheduled for February 15, 2025 from 10:00-12:00 pm located at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 5656 S. Higley Road in Gilbert, Arizona.  Burial will be at 1:30 PM at the Mesa Cemetery located at 1212 N. Center St, in Mesa, Arizona.

If you would like to send flowers, you may do so through Crismon’s Flowers located at 144 W. Main Street, in Mesa, AZ.  (480) 964-4595.

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.

The world became a little less bright on January 29th, 2025, when Sonny James Rock passed away peacefully on his 52nd birthday in Gilbert, Arizona.

Sonny was born in Missoula, Montana to Donna and Daniel Rock. In his early years he lived in Montana and California, finally landing in Riverton, Ut in 1984.

Sonny loved spending time with his only brother, Jason, and they had an incredible bond. While in Utah, Sonny had many, many friends. He was known for his witty sense of humor and crazy antics. The fact he was awarded “Most Remembered” his senior year shows what an impact he had on his peers.

He met Michelle Laub the first day of his senior year and shortly after that they became inseparable. They married young on March 28th, 1992. Their family grew shortly thereafter and subsequently they had four daughters who were his entire world.

Michelle and Sonny lived in Iowa for 4 years where Sonny made many lifelong friends that continue to this day. They settled in Mesa, Arizona in 2001 where they raised their family. Sonny loved football, the outdoors, his friends, movies, concerts and traveling.

Though Sonny will be most remembered for his love of people, especially his family. He was a friend to all and made every person he met feel like they mattered and that he genuinely cared. Sonny always saw the best in people and encouraged everyone to be the best version of themselves.

Sonny leaves behind his wife Michelle, daughters Skyelee, Quynn, Peyton and Emery. His parents Donna and Robert Rock, brother Jason (Jyl Bosone). Mother In-Law Mona Davis (Kelly), Father In-Law Kevin Laub (Marianne). Sisters- In-Law, Erica Liti (Sam), Amy Bonnemort (Dave), Whitney Turley (Trace), Brothers-In-Law Brett Laub (Lacey) and Landon Laub (Norma) as well as many nieces and nephews who he cherished. We also cannot forget about his beloved dog, Bowtie.

In honor of Sonny, we encourage all to smile at a stranger, offer encouragement to a friend or reach out to someone you haven’t spoken to in awhile.

#RockRockneverstop

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.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Phil Polizzatto, a loving father, devoted husband, and cherished grandfather. Phil passed away surrounded by his beloved family, leaving behind a legacy of love, joy, and laughter.

Phil was born and raised in New Jersey, where he formed the foundation of his values and work ethic. His journey led him to Arizona, where he built a beautiful life, enriched by the warmth of the desert sun and the company of dear friends and family.

Phil was a man of many passions, with a particular love for golf, fishing, and spending quality time with those he held dear. Whether on the green, by the water, or gathered around the dinner table, Phil’s presence was a source of joy and comfort. He had an extraordinary ability to light up a room with his infectious laugh and radiant smile, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met.

As a father, Phil was nurturing and supportive, always encouraging his children to pursue their dreams with confidence. As a husband, he was unwavering in his devotion, a true partner in every sense of the word. As a grandfather, he was a source of endless love and wisdom, creating memories that will be treasured forever.

Phil’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and the importance of cherishing life’s simple pleasures. He leaves behind his loving wife, his children who adored him, and grandchildren who will always remember the joy he brought into their lives. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Rest in peace, Phil. You will be dearly missed, but your spirit will continue to guide and inspire us all.

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.

Gary Lee Stone passed away peacefully on February 2nd at home in Gilbert, Arizona, under the loving care of his wife, Joy Stone.

He was a devoted husband, a father to three sons (Jason, Stuart, and Keith), a grandfather to ten grandchildren, and a great-grandfather to four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a brother (Randy Stone) and a sister (Tamara Stone Fox).

Born in Logan, UT, he grew up on a sugar beet farm outside Weston, Idaho. After the family home burned down, he lived in the basement and worked hard from a young age. Often working multiple jobs, Gary stayed busy and loved learning new things.

He built a career in law enforcement, rising to the rank of Lieutenant with the Pocatello Police Department. He later became a Latent Print Examiner in Arizona and worked as a defense contractor specializing in forensics. Service was a constant in his life. He was a dedicated home teacher, temple worker, and addiction recovery missionary, always willing to help others. He led quietly, teaching through action rather than words.

Though his passing leaves a void, his example remains. He now walks with his mother and father, Raymond and Larue Stone, who preceded him in death.

A memorial service will be held graveside in Weston, Idaho July 5th. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that his memory be honored through service, hard work, and quiet acts of kindness.

He 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.

Sherie Lynn Hawkins Anderson passed peacefully, surrounded by her children, on Sunday, January 19, 2025.

She was born to Margaret Elizabeth and Reed Cook Hawkins in Boise, Idaho, and was raised in a uniquely business-minded family. One of their first businesses was a small store in front of their house, and later, they became the owners of the Red Steer franchise restaurants. She recalled working from the young age of eight and often expressed gratitude for the experience, as it instilled in her a strong work ethic. Her family was known for taking on ambitious projects, often repeating the phrase, “Always a project, forever a dream.”

Sherie graduated from Borah High School in Boise, Idaho, in 1969. Later, in her adult years, she married Frans Daniel Verkerk and was blessed with two daughters, Valerie and Viktoria.

She later met the love of her life, William Edward Anderson. Their story began when Sherie owned a Baskin-Robbins 31 Flavors, where Bill was a regular customer—destined to fall in love. They married in Elko, Nevada, and embarked on many adventures together. They successfully owned and operated two fast-food, drive-through hamburger restaurants named Bronco Bill’s—famous for serving the best hamburgers in town!

Before their marriage, Bill had four children: Mel, Mindy, Justin, and Josh. Together, Sherie and Bill had two additional children, Jacob and Jeremiah Anderson.

Sherie was a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Her greatest joy was serving alongside her husband, Bill, as Stake Mission Leaders, where they worked together to share their faith and love for the gospel.

Sherie spent many years as a successful real estate agent and often involved the entire family in preparing homes for sale. She always went the extra mile to make each house feel warm and inviting.

She had a passion for baking and cooking, especially her famous chocolate chip cookies, homemade rolls, and all sorts of other treats. She loved preparing meals for others, often making sandwiches for contractors working around the house—acts of service that truly reflected her love language.

One of her favorite sayings was, “Love you to the Moon and back.” This simple phrase encapsulated the deep love she had for her husband, children, and grandchildren.

She and Bill were blessed with many travel experiences, visiting places such as Rome and Hong Kong.

Sherie was preceded in death by her parents, Reed Cook Hawkins and Margaret Elizabeth Hawkins, and by her eternal companion of 44 years, William Edward Anderson.

She is survived by:

• Siblings and their spouses: Gary Hawkins (Gail), Jan Hawkins, Luann Warren (Brad), and Karen Hawkins.
• Children and their spouses: Valerie Verkerk (Joseph), Viktoria Verkerk, Jacob Anderson (Tanya), and Jeremiah Anderson (Samantha).
• Grandchildren: Kolbie, Kinzie, Jayden, Blake, Sage, Sylas, Roman, Mckenzie, and Sienna.
• Great-grandchildren: Ronan, Evelyn, and Gary Jr.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

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.

Steffan Waters passed away peacefully on January 25, 2025, in Mesa, Arizona.

Steffan was born June 24, 1940, in Stranraer Scotland, son of John Richard Waters and Gertrude Maude Minns (Geldarski).

He met his best friend, and the love of his life Alma Lois Waters at Wright’s grocery store in Mesa, Arizona. He worked in the produce department, and she used her creative talent in the bakery. They were married December 27, 1958, and from their union they raised four children, three sons and one daughter.

Steffan built a home for his family in Mesa, where they lived for over 50 years. He worked hard to provide for his family; in the early years as an Airman in the Air Force and in his later years he worked in the fire department, retiring in 1991 as a Battalion Chief for the Mesa Fire Department.

In his free time, Steffan enjoyed keeping busy, working with his hands, building things, projects around the house and spending time with Lois, friends and family, especially his grandchildren. He would often entertain them by creating projects for them to build or amusing them with his little magic tricks, like pulling his thumb apart.

Steffan had a sharp sense of humor and could always be counted on for a story or a joke. He was poised and ready to quiz his grandchildren on historical facts and other educational topics. He was very proud of his heritage and was a true British Gentleman. His accent would become increasingly strong when he met others from Scotland or England and he would often get dressed up just to go to Walmart, putting on his sweater and his bowtie.

Patriotism, and love of country was always a huge part of his life. As a child  he survived World War Two and later came to the United States as a teenager with his mother. He was just as proud to be an American as he was an Englishman and it wasn’t unusual to see American flags displayed around his home and patriotic music playing, particularly when the grandkids were little and he had created playlist for them on CD’s.

He is preceded in death by his parents; Richard and Gertrude, his wife Lois and their eldest son Robert. He is survived by his half-brother; Andre Geldarski, his daughter in law; Karin, and children Judy, Edward (Aretta) and John (Holly), 11 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.

He was truly loved and will greatly be missed.

Mosiah 15:23

“They are raised to dwell with God who has redeemed them, thus they have eternal life through Christ, who has broken the bands of death”

Services will be held Saturday, February 8, 2025.

9:00 am to 10:15 am – Viewing

10:30 am – Funeral

Graveside services will be held at 2 PM on the same day at the City of Mesa Cemetery 1212 North Center St., Mesa, AZ.

For those who cannot attend the services will be on Zoom under Steffan Waters’ Funeral please click on the following link:

https://zoom.us/j/96980804646

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.

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Cecilia Hartley, who peacefully departed this life on Monday, January 13, 2025, at the age of 67. Born on November 19, 1957, in Mesa, Arizona, Cecilia was a beloved Mother, Sister, Aunt and Friend.

She leaves behind her cherished children, Robert Hartley (Natividad), and Amanda Hartley and her grandchildren, Jace and Zoey who were the lights of her life. Cecilia is also survived by her devoted brothers, Jerry Gaona and Carlos Gaona, as well as her beloved sisters, Carmen Nebrich and Becky Sanchez.

She was preceded in death by her mother and Father, Samuel and Nemecia Gaona.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, February 1^st at 12:00pm, at Compass Christian Church in Chandler Arizona.

Cecilia will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her kindness, warmth, and love for family will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

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.