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Hunter Bryson Bennett was born on April 21, 2006 to Bryson and Emily Bennett in Provo, Utah. Hunter was diagnosed with Lissencephaly at 4 months old and was predicted to only live 2 to 5 years. During his first years Hunter was a traveler. He visited Southern Utah, Idaho, Las Vegas, San Diego, Orlando, Spain, Italy, and France. Hunter received his first feeding tube at 18 months old, and at the age of two he received his first wheelchair and his first sister, Eleyna.

Hunter lived in Orem, Utah until he was two and then moved to Provo, Utah. Hunter’s dad equipped the Provo house to work with his wheelchair. Both the Orem and Provo houses had beautiful yards with trees and gardens. Hunter spent a lot of his summers outside.

Hunter’s brother Rockwell soon joined the family and they then moved, for a short time, to Lehi, Utah. His sister Bria made her entrance to the family at the Lehi house. When Hunter was six years old, his dad had a crazy idea to move to Queen Creek, Arizona. Dad packed the moving truck and headed out. Hunter followed with his mom and new baby sister. It was the ride of his life. The landing in Arizona was a little rough but the Bennett’s soon adjusted to the sunny weather. A month after they moved, Hunter went on an epic boy’s trip with Dad back up to Utah to get a new feeding tube and wheelchair. The ride home, with Hunter stretched out across the back seat of the truck, was one neither Hunter nor his dad would ever forget. Hunter settled in to life with no winters; he really enjoyed the sun and warmth of Arizona.

Hunter’s youngest brother, Wesley, joined the party when Hunter was nine. His parents decided to buy a 45-year-old house on some land in Gilbert, Arizona and remodel it to accommodate the growing family, and mainly, the growing of Hunter. Hunter moved into the house right after his 11^th birthday. He had a new room, new shower, no steps, and many features he and his parents enjoyed.

Hunter liked very similar activities throughout his life. He loved going to the movies, especially every year for his birthday. He saw more PG-13 movies with his dad by age four than any other child. He particularly enjoyed watching gunfights and car chases. Hunter loved to be held. Even at age 12 his favorite spot was on somebody’s lap who was big enough to hold him.

At age 7, Hunter got a wheelchair van and a motorhome in the same month. The growing family could then fit in one vehicle, and his buff Mom no longer had to lift the wheelchair into the back of the van. He loved his motorhome. Not many seven-year-olds’ can claim they got a motorhome as a present, but it was Hunter’s favorite toy. Every summer he was able, he took the motorhome to the beach in California and his family was able to tag along with him. It was a big sleepover with all of his siblings and he loved it. The ride was as exciting as the destination.

Hunter also loved to visit Disneyland and he went several times throughout his life. His siblings called him their Fast Pass because they could skip the lines with a brother in a wheelchair. Hunter was a little hesitant on the Cars ride, with Dad trying to support him from the next seat on the fast turns, but he did not want to let his siblings down and make them wait in the 2-hour line. Sometimes you have to take one for the team on family vacations, Hunter was not excluded in that.

Hunter got a new wheelchair van at age nine, one that had better air conditioning. He loved the van and he spent many hours in it back and forth from doctors. His dad felt he was exempt from the traffic laws, so Hunter laid across the back seat that folded into a bed on most of the return trips from the hospital. It was nice to relax with the shades down and the A/C blowing right on you after those long appointment days.

Hunter was able to attend some school and had many great teachers and therapists, but the majority of the care for Hunter occurred in his home. His parents did all of the care for the first half of his life but needed some extra hands as he and the family grew. Hunter’s spirit attracted such sweet caregivers into his home, including Emily, Celeste, Samantha, Cassidy, Savannah, Kelsi, and Candin. Most 12-year-old boys are a little awkward around cute 19-year-old single girls, but Hunter was very mature for his age. He was the envy of every young man at the singles ward and was known as quite the ladies man! Hunter required 24-hour attention and these girls served him and the family with great care and tenderness. His mom was always close, and if she wasn’t, the nanny cam was…. Hunter also had nurses during the night that helped out for the last few years of his life. Dawn, Robin, Danny, Margie, and Judy, from Thrive, served Hunter with exceptional care to keep him as cozy and comfortable as possible while his tired parents slept. For a few years in Utah, Hunter did equestrian therapy and loved riding his horse with his therapist Laura.

Hunter loved seeing his extended family at reunions in Idaho, Utah, and California. He went camping, boating, snowmobiling and experienced life the best he was able. His favorite moments, however, were at home, sitting in his favorite position on the floor or couch and listening to the chaos of 5 siblings full of love and life all around him. Hunter was able to meet his new sister, Gemma, 6 months ago. She brought the family to an even 3 boys and 3 girls. Hunter was always a big part of the family and was the best big brother. He was always available to snuggle if anyone was sad. If you were worried or anxious about anything in life he had a calming sense that made it all ok.

Hunter made everyone slow down and listen to the promptings of the Spirit. What was lacking in capacity in his mortal body was amplified with his courageous soul. Hunter’s health struggled his whole life, but especially the last 18 months of his life. He finally completed his mission here on Earth on May 7^th and returned home to his Heavenly Father. He will always be remembered and adored by those who dedicated time to be with him. We love you Hunter.

Lynn Thomas Rees, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on May 13, 2018 at the Country Oaks Care Center, at the age of 82. Lynn was born on September 18, 1935 in Coalville, UT, the third child of Jacob and Neta Rees. He is preceded in death by his brother Dean, and survived by Ward, Donna, Alfred and Afra.

He married his sweetheart, Ellen Elizabeth Gines, in the Salt Lake City, UT LDS Temple on June 10, 1955 and is survived by their five children, Pam Peterson, Denise Clouse (Curtis), Allison Riesterer, Lana Mitzel (Bill), and Mark Rees (Laurie); 21 grandchildren; and 34 great-grandchildren.

Lynn attended high school in Coalville, UT, graduating early and earning a scholarship to the University of Utah where he earned a degree in electrical engineering. His early career was working for Sperry Rand in Utah, Toledo Scale, and then moving to Arizona in 1965 where he worked for Motorola Semiconductor until he retired. He spent many hours tinkering in his shop, always building, inventing, and improving on existing and future projects. He was active in the Boy Scouts of America for many years and loved being out in nature and spending time teaching and participating with both the young men and their leaders. His sense of patriotism and love of his country was imparted to all who worked with and knew him, whether at home, church, or in his civic duties.

Always an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he served in bishoprics, on the Stake High Council, and as Bishop for many years. After his retirement he served as a missionary for his church in the Australia, Brisbane mission with his wife, Ellen, and enjoyed that service enormously. His gifts of service were many, including church, family, community, and any neighbor in need. His positive attitude, enthusiasm, and love of learning were trademarks he was well known for.

Funeral services will be held at the Kleinman Park Ward building at 616 S Extension Rd, Mesa, AZ at 10:00am on Saturday, May 19, 2018. There will be a viewing on Friday, May 18, 2018 from 6:00 to 8:00pm and Saturday morning at 9:00am. Interment will be at the City of Mesa Cemetery at 1212 N Center St, Mesa, AZ 83201.

Jan Bulkley Gilyeat, 64, of Gilbert, Arizona was born in Ogden, Utah on July 12, 1953 to Arthur Vernon Bulkley and Lylas June Alldredge. She passed away peacefully on May 11, 2018 in Phoenix, Arizona. As a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she actively shared the Gospel in everything she did. She traveled the country with her parents as a young girl while her father built church houses. Jan danced her way through life, including appearances on American Bandstand.

In the midst of raising five children, she became step-mom to four more children. As a parent to 9 children she was the ideal wife, mother, and grandmother. She served her community in Cub Scouts, PTA, Youth Soccer and many church organizations. She directed a 90 voice combined choir consisting of members from the LDS Gilbert Stake and St. Anne Catholic Parish for many years.

Jan is survived by her husband, Ian Gilyeat; their nine children, Jennifer Homer Barnes, Jacob Homer, Brandon Gilyeat (Joy), Cassie Homer Eagar (Kevin), Zachary Homer, Sean Gilyeat, Adrian Gilyeat, Juneanne Homer Fisher (Michael), and Tialene Gilyeat; seven grandchildren; and two brothers, Kent Bulkley (Karen) and Lynn Bulkley (Sini).

Jan was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Van Bulkley; and sisters, Jeanene Bulkley and Verlane Bulkley.

Funeral services for Jan will be held Saturday, May 19, 2018 at the LDS Gilbert Stake Chapel, 777 E Elliot Rd, Gilbert, AZ, from 11:00am to 12:00pm. A visitation with the family will be from 9:00am to 10:45am that same day.  Jan will then be laid to rest at the City of Mesa Cemetery, 1212 N Center St, Mesa, AZ, immediately following the service.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Bunker’s Garden Chapel. (480) 964-8686

Ruth Allred Rais, 93, passed away on May 5, 2018 in Clovis, New Mexico. She was born in Safford, Arizona on October 28, 1924 to Clifford L. and Lola Sevey Allred. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph P. Rais. She is survived by her children, Sandra Brower (Bill), W. Sevey Sherman (Maggie), and Patricia Rais. She has 6 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held May 14, 2018 at 10:00am with a viewing at 9:00am at the LDS Church at 848 N. Westwood Street in Mesa, Arizona. Burial will be in Thatcher, Arizona.

George Baribeau, the man, the myth, the legend. His journey on Earth started in Cornell, Wisconsin with a long stop in Denver, Colorado and ended in Mesa, Arizona. He passed away the evening of Friday, May 4, 2018, surrounded by his loved ones. Although small in stature at his passing, he was truly the strongest man we have ever known. He showed his children what a real man and gentle man was. George was, first and foremost, an amazing family man. He was a great father to 3 children, Tom, Mary, and Bo, and he was a wonderful husband of 40 years to Karen. He is called “Pop Pop” by his 5 grandchildren that he loved spending time reading, snuggling, and laughing with.

George was kind to everyone he met. He never complained a day in his life or said something mean about another person, unless you were talking politics with him. His love of history and adventure took him and his family around the world on numerous excursions. He was proud to support his family with a job he enjoyed for 35 years. George was with us for 11 years longer than expected because of his older brother’s kind act of selflessness. Tom donated one of his kidneys to George in 2007.

George will be laid to rest this Saturday, May 12, 2018. A viewing will be from 8:30 to 9:30am at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 North Centennial Way, Mesa, Arizona 85201. His burial will then follow at Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery, 1562 East Baseline Road, Mesa, Arizona 85204, at 10:00am. There will also be a celebration of George’s life later this summer at a time to be determined by the family.

Donations can be made to the PKD Foundation at: https://pkdcure.org/

Russell Eugene Harris, Jr., 74, of Tempe, Ariz., was born in Phoenix on Oct. 15, 1943, and passed away peacefully on May 6, 2018.  As an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Russell served a mission in Peru.  He retired from the Arizona Air National Guard as a Major and the Phoenix Union High School District where he taught Spanish for many years.  He spent his retirement years volunteering as an Ordinance Worker at the Mesa LDS Temple, as well as the Tempe Public Library, Tempe Police Department and other organizations.  Russell is survived by his wife, Julie; children Richard (Angela), Rand (Malinda), Holly (Jack Harston), Rustin (Sarah), Geri Anne (Chris Hoskins), Kelly (Ryan Labadie); sisters Linda (Richard Johnson) and Susan Burdick; and brother Kenneth (Betsy); 21 grandchildren and one great grandchild.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Irma Harris, and brother-in-law Russell Burdick.

Russell’s visitation will be held May 12, 2018, at the Lakeshore LDS Chapel, 6001 S. Lakeshore Drive in Tempe, from 9:30–10:45 a.m.  Funeral services immediately following the visitation at 11 a.m.  He will be laid to rest at the City of Mesa Cemetery, 1212 N. Center St.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Russell’s name to The Parkinson Network of Arizona, 240 W. Thomas Road, Ste 302, Phoenix, AZ 85013.  Arrangements entrusted to Bunker’s University Chapel.

Weldon Kempton, 100 passed away on May 4, 2018 in Mesa, Arizona.  He was born February 10, 1918 in Miami, Arizona.  Weldon was preceded in death by his wife, Roberta.  He is survived by his two sons, Arthur and Curtis Kempton, both of Gilbert, AZ.  He is also survived by 5 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren whom he loved very much.  Visitation will be held 6-8 pm on Thursday May 10 at Bunker University Chapel, 3529 E University Dr, Mesa.  Funeral services are Friday May 11, 10 am, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel at 4629 E Guadalupe Rd, Gilbert, AZ.

Elizabeth Ann Rainer (Hogan, Brlecic) age 86, passed away on May 6^th 2018 peacefully in her home in Arizona.  She was born on April 5, 1932 in Marquette, Michigan.  She was blessed to have three sisters Mary Carlson, Patricia Jones and Judith Petterson.  She is survived by her three daughters Diana Elizabeth Stone (Bobby), Susan Marie Seidler (Steve) and Carol Ann Brlecic.  Elizabeth was so happy to be called Grammy by her three grandchildren, Lindsey Elizabeth Stone, Madison Ruby Marie Seidler, and Matthew Steven Seidler.  Elizabeth also had many dear nieces and nephews. 

A memorial Service will be held Wednesday, May 16^th, 2018 at 1:00 PM at Bunker’s University Chapel, 3529 E. University Dr. in Mesa.

The family of David Ross wishes to notify family and friends of his passing on April 29, 2018. He was quite possibly the most attentive husband, devoted father, and extraordinary poppa this world has ever known. He is survived by his wife, Nanci; son, Chris; daughter, Jeni; and grandson, Beni.

Dave was born on a farm in Bucyrus, Ohio on April 20, 1945, to Frances and Clarence Ross. Clarence taught Dave the importance of treating your spouse with tenderness and respect. Although his mother passed away when he was only five years old, her warmth and kindness shaped Dave; these qualities became his defining characteristics throughout his life. Dave moved with his family to Arizona in 1961, where he attended Mesa High School and graduated in 1963. He worked in the audio/video business his entire life as a manager and owner, though he never had extravagant electronics in his own home, where his family often joked of their longing for a speaker to hear music in the house. Dave was known to all as a “people person.” He could strike up a meaningful conversation with ANY individual he met. He was an expert at building authentic relationships with others and was gifted at making those around him feel valued and respected.

Dave was an avid, voracious reader, car enthusiast, sous vide cook and an expert at stashing Peanut M&M’s. Each morning, he delighted in meticulously making lunch for his wife, Nanci, and graciously driving her to work. His math and science prowess proved invaluable when patiently helping his grandson, Beni, with homework each night. He was known by family, friends and coworkers as the problem solver, the fixer, and the protector. His greatest joy was spending as much time as possible with Nanci, Beni, Jeni, and Chris. He loved his life and he adored his family. He made them the center of his world.

Services will be held at 10:00am on Tuesday, May 15, 2018 at the LDS Chapel located at 848 N Westwood St, Mesa, AZ 85201. Immediately following, graveside services will be held at Green Acres Cemetery, 401 N Hayden Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85257. A viewing will be held on Monday, May 14, 2018 from 6:00-8:00pm at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 N Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ 85201.

Orell Herman Kehrer, 93, of Mesa, Arizona; passed away on April 30, 2018.  A visitation will be held at 9:00 AM with services at 10:00 AM, Saturday, May 5, 2018 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2228 E. Brown Road in Mesa.

Phillip Lee Fox, 78 of Mesa AZ died May 1, 2018 at his home after a long battle with cancer. Phillip was loved and will be missed by many. He married Carol Ann Beasley, 60 years-ago in McAllen Texas. Their love story was a fairytale that begin as high school sweethearts. In 1970, Phil and Carol were sealed for time and all eternity in the Mesa, LDS Temple. He is survived by his wife Carol and their four children; Dayne (Pam) of San Tan Valley, Michelle (Paul) of Mesa, Duane of Mesa, and Patrick (Sydnee) of Saratoga Springs, Utah. Phil and Carol had eight grandchildren, Dayla, Dallen, Nathan, Samantha, Amanda, Madison, Clancee and Rosie. Phil was the second son of Kenneth E and Segal Anita Fox and was raised with his twin sister Phyllis Ann Fox and other brother Kenneth Glenn Fox in McAllen. He joins them in heaven along with his grandson Dallen Jarnagin.

Phil and Carol both joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in 1969 in McAllen. He served in numerous church callings including; a Bishop, Stake President, President of the Milwaukee Wisconsin Mission from 1989-1991 and as a Temple Sealer in the San Antonio and Mesa LDS Temples. He was a spiritual giant and influenced many lives through his endless church service.

Phil owned multiple insurance agencies in McAllen and worked for three Fortune 500 companies. He attended the University of Texas, Austin.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Hospice at Home for the loving care they provided in his last days. A viewing will be held from 9:00 -10:45 a.m. followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, May 8 at the LDS Parkwood Ward building, 618 South Signal Butte in Mesa. Graveside services will follow at the Mountain View Cemetery at 9700 East Main Street in Mesa. Please visit bunkerfuneral.com for online condolences.

Melissa Joy Hufstader, born September 20^th, 1975 passed away peacefully on May 1^st , 2018 in Tempe, Arizona after a long battle with Cancer. Melissa led a very happy, joy filled life.  Loved for her entertaining and loving nature, bringing together and building memories for friends and family alike.  After 19 years with Urban Outfitters she moved on to her true passions, interior design and real estate.  Melissa was preceded in death by her Grandparents Jerry and Lois Missar.  She is survived by a son Koen, a brother Robin, Grandparents Jan and Jerry Weber and parents Chuck and Suzanne.  Funeral services are being held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 3344 E. McDowell Rd, Mesa on Monday May 7^th.  Preceded by a visitation at 6pm Sunday May 6^th , at Bunker’s University Chapel, 3529 E. University Dr., Mesa.  In lieu of flowers donations to Stand Up To Cancer, standuptocancer.org, are suggested.

Ben (Mac) McCoy Young Jr. passed away peacefully at his home in Mesa, Arizona on May 3, 2018.

Ben was born on August 9, 1932 in Des Moines, Iowa to Ben McCoy Young Sr. and Bernice Beatrice Bradley Young. He graduated from Richland High School in 1951 and served in the U.S. Air Force for 5 years.

Ben’s 1955 marriage to Delores Forinash resulted in 3 children: Ben Young III, Michael Young, and Mary Rose Reynolds. The marriage later ended in divorce.

Ben was a lifetime member & Master Mason at Masonic Lodge #38 in Richland, Iowa.

In 1973, Ben married Janice (Westrum) Appenzeller, and the family blended to include the Appenzeller children: Steve, Tammy, Twyla, Talitha, Kerry & Kip.

Ben’s professional career included 23 years with Massey Ferguson and 26 years with the parking administration department at Arizona State University.

Ben enjoyed spending time with family & friends, cheering on his favorite sports teams and touring the U.S. via their motor home. He is survived by his bride of 44 years, Janice Young, and a large blended family of children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Brad.

Ben is preceded in death by his parents, and his son Mike.

Visitation will be held from 10:00a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Schroeder-Reimers Memorial Chapel in Boone, Iowa, with the memorial service beginning at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be at 12:30 p.m. at South Marion Cemetery near Stratford.