Find An Obituary

Jerry Lee Tuttle, 85, of Gilbert, Arizona, passed away on December 21, 2024. Born on April 18, 1939, in Angola, Indiana, Jerry led a full and meaningful life, defined by his unwavering love for family, hard work, and cherished traditions.

Jerry met his beloved wife, Rita, in high school, and the two began dating soon after. Their love story blossomed, and they were married in 1959. Together, they shared a life full of love, laughter, and many cherished memories. Jerry was predeceased by Rita in 2008, but their bond remained strong in the hearts of their children and grandchildren.

Jerry’s career was marked by his work in the printing industry, where he spent many years as a supervisor. Later, he worked with his son-in-law at his mechanic shop, always bringing his strong work ethic and a warm, approachable demeanor to every role.

In addition to his professional life, Jerry had a deep love for card games, particularly playing 99 and 31 with family and friends on Friday nights. These gatherings, filled with laughter and joy, were among his favorite moments.

Jerry was a devoted father to his three daughters, Jaci, Lisa, and Lori, and his son, Brendt. He also leaves behind two brothers, Jack and Bob, three sisters, Linda, Shirley, and Pam, as well as 12 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. His legacy is carried on by his family, who will forever remember his kindness, humor, and love.

A private family service will be held to honor Jerry’s life on Friday, January 3rd. Flowers can be sent to Bunker’s University Chapel.

Jerry’s love for his family, his strong work ethic, and his playful spirit will never be forgotten. May he rest in peace.

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.

We announce with heavy hearts that Larry Salzman passed away with his family by his side at Banner Desert Hospital on December 21^st, at the age of 78.  He had been battling heart failure since June of this year.

While in the hospital back in June, he developed a wound on his leg, which unfortunately, became infected last week, turned into sepsis, and took his life two days later.

Larry was born in Lincoln, Nebraska on July 18th in 1946 to Rudolph and Sarah Salzman. Larry attended North East High School in Lincoln and graduated in 1964.He moved his family to Mesa, Arizona in 1975 and became a Meat Cutter for Alpha Beta, where he worked for them until he retired.

He had a passion for cars, one of his favorites was the Plymouth Prowler.  He owned 3 of them over the years. He was known on The Prowler Forum as Alleycat. Always posting on the Forum and in good times, jabbing at other friends about their cars. He attended several Car shows that took him on many road trips over several states with the love of his life Lethia. Lethia was his partner for over 15 years and she preceded him in death back in December of 2016.

Larry is survived by his daughter, Sheree; 2 grandchildren, Brandon and Brittany; 1 Great-Granddaughter, Eleanor; and Stepson, Cole and Stepdaughter, Danell.   He is preceded in death by his parents Rudy and Sarah Salzman, his brother Gary Salzman and his girlfriend, Lethia.

He will be greatly missed by family and countless friends.

Prowl on Alleycat! I Love You Dad!  Until we meet again.

Services for Larry will be at Bunkers Garden Chapel on Friday, January3, 2024, at 33 N. Centennial Way Mesa, AZ 85201.

Viewing- 11:30

Service- 12:30

Burial-   1:45- Mesa Cemetery on Center Street

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

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Beverly McKnight Cooper. She died unexpectedly after a period of illness in the evening of December 20th, 2024, in Mesa, Arizona.

Bev was born on October 13th, 1941, in Provo, Utah, where she spent most of her childhood and teenage years. Her parents were H Neil McKnight and Utahna Gledhill McKnight. She was the oldest of five children: Jean McKnight, Ralph McKnight, Harrison McKnight, and Bill McKnight. Showing her characteristic resolve early in life, Bev pushed herself to overcome shyness in order to embrace all the things she wanted to do in her youth. She found joy and success twirling a baton in school marching bands, writing for school newspapers, chairing college election committees, giving comedic readings at various assemblies, and enjoying the mountains of Utah. And, with self-deprecating humor, she spoke of her attempts at other things like piano lessons and singing.

She received a Bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University in 1964 and a Master’s degree in Child Development and Family Relations from Oregon State University in 1967. It was in Oregon that she met Larry Cooper, whom she married in the Los Angeles Temple on September 9th, 1965. Each was an excellent complement for the other’s personality. Whether they had been apart for just a day of work or for a longer trip, they were usually observed to happily reunite and sit together to discuss their days and other events, laugh, and generally enjoy each other’s company. They set a realistic standard as a couple that loves and admires one another, resolves problems and differences together, and supports the other through personal trials. Bev and Larry were in their 60th year of marriage when she passed.

Bev and Larry lived for many years in Oxon Hill, Maryland, and Fairfax, Virginia, and had five children together: Scott Cooper, Greg Cooper, Mark Cooper, Paula Cooper Crawford, and Eric Cooper. Bev was an excellent, involved, and loving mother. She took on myriad roles within her family–everything from volunteer scout leader to birthday planner to in-home medical provider–and she managed each with her own unique flair. She tried to instill her children with confidence in their abilities, bringing the vigor of an entire cheering section when her children told her about their interests, accomplishments, and setbacks. This encouragement for her children’s pursuits occasionally revealed another of her beautiful qualities: her superhuman patience amid teenage antics, childish foolishness, near-constant yet playful sarcasm, and snakes, lots and lots of snakes.

Beverly’s family grew and she loved her daughters-in-law and son-in-law as much as her children. She and Larry retired in Mesa, Arizona. Seeing her children and her siblings spread out across the globe, she determined to be a unifying agent for her family. She wrote news-filled weekly letters for decades. She created a family newspaper, The McKnight Gnus, as a way for distant relatives to stay informed about one another. She organized family gatherings and traveled for each new grandchild, to help the mother and the family and to bring the new baby a personalized, handmade quilt. She held Cousin Camps at her home to form bonds with her grandchildren and with each other. She was a wonderful gift-giver and didn’t miss birthdays and other big events. Her efforts to unite her family stretched beyond the limits of this mortal life as she studied the lives of her and Larry’s ancestors and taught her posterity about them, and she did work for ancestors in the temple.

Bev found richness in life by exploring a wide variety of talents and interests. Her cartoons were printed in the humor sections of numerous publications such as Highlights for Children, New Era, and Friend Magazine. Despite an unencouraging comment from a junior high school art teacher, she demonstrated her relentless determination by developing her painting skills over the years until she had achieved marvelous proficiency. Her art hung in local galleries and continues to hang in prominent locations on many walls of her children’s homes. She worked tirelessly on children’s books for many years, culminating in the publication of The Apostle Paul: His Story (Covenant Books, Inc.) just three years before her passing. She constantly improved herself by reading dozens of biographies of many (other) great women and men of history. Working for a period of time as a substitute teacher, she was one of few who were willing to regularly accept assignments at a school for children with considerable behavioral needs. Bev had a talent for gardening, demonstrated particularly by her ability to tame Arizona’s punishing flora and turn her yard into another of her works of art. Her list of enriching life experiences is long! She was also a world traveler. She sewed clothes and created an impressive portfolio of unforgettable Halloween costumes. Bev even lifted weights and did cardio at a local gym into her 80s!

Finally, it is with bittersweet pride and joy that we see Bev pass into the presence of the Savior she loved so much in life. Her faith in Christ seemed to permeate every aspect of her thinking as she looked to Him when approaching her decisions, problems, and activities in life. She had remarkable experiences with the Spirit in her mortal life and we can only assume she is having them now. Bev treasured the words of the scriptures and of modern prophets and apostles, she prayed fervently, and she tried to match the Lord’s example by giving herself in service to others in her daily life and in her numerous roles as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She leaves a firm legacy of faith for those who follow.

For all of this and much, much more, Beverly Cooper will be missed terribly. We love you, Mom!

Funeral services:

Saturday, January 4, 2025

10:00 am viewing

11:00 am service

7752 E McDowell Road

Mesa, AZ 85207

Burial location:

Mountain View Funeral Home & Cemetery

7900 E Main Street

Mesa, AZ 85207

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.

Joseph Donel Martindale passed peacefully at home on December 22, 2024 at the age of 92.  Born March 10, 1932 in Burley Idaho, he was the first child of Cleora and Lyman Martindale.  His growing up years were spent in Burley where his parents owned a neighborhood grocery store, Martindale’s Eastside Groceries.

Don attended BYU in Provo, Utah after graduating from Burley High School in 1950.  He studied accounting and graduated in 1956.  From 1952-1954, Don put his studies on hold and served as a full-time missionary for the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints In the Texas-Louisiana Mission headquartered in Houston.  Upon completing his mission, he returned to his studies at BYU and to the girl that had waited for him for two years.

Shirley Fay Mackey and Joseph Donel Martindale were married in the Idaho Falls Temple on June 2,1955.  Their first dwelling was a basement apartment in Provo. In less than a year, they purchased a house in Orem.  Orem was home for 10 years before work with the federal bureau of public roads took the family to Sacramento for a year and then another transfer to the Phoenix office.  Don and Shirley bought a home in Tempe where they raised their family. In 1997, they bought a lot and built a home in Mesa where they lived until passing.

Don worked for the Federal Highway Administration for 34 years, retiring in 1997.  Prior to that he worked for Rico Argentine Mining company, 1 year, Bonham Corporation (manufacturer of Tote Gote), 5 years and Lehi Lumber Company, 1 year.  Upon retiring, he and Shirley served at the Mesa Family Search library for three years.  He enjoyed traveling and visiting with family and friends, especially in Idaho!

Don is preceded in death by his wife Shirley, his parents, Lyman and Cleora, three sisters, Delna, Pam and Lorna and one grandson, Kirk. Family remaining includes: brother David (Joan) in San Luis Obispo, CA and sister Joyce in Bear River, Utah. Sons: Alan (Marla), Kent (Estrella) and daughters Marie (Craig Tate), Kalene (Tom Sims), Brenda (Carl Gwilliam), LeAnn (Larry Ruettinger), Darla (Tere Lemieux) and Denise (Mark Bohn).  He leaves 40 grandchildren, 104 great-grand-children and 3 great-great grandchildren.

Services will be held at the LDS Chapel, 2618 N Lindsay Road, Mesa AZ.  at 10am on January 6, 2025.

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.

Phillip Eugene Chiles Sr. passed away peacefully at the age of 89 on December 17, 2024, in Mesa, AZ.  He was called home to be with his wife Sandra Kay Shumway Chiles and son, Phillip Eugene Chiles Jr. He is survived by his son, Markel Chiles and daughter Connie White. He was born in Des Moines, Iowa to Earl Eugene Chiles and Esther Lucile Morris.

He met the love of his life, Sandra at 18 and served honorably in the United States Air Force as a Security Policeman for 22 Years. He enjoyed weightlifting, motorcycles, muscle cars and spending time with his family. The Air Force took Phil and his family to live all over the world, including Japan, Libya and Hawaii. Phil retired in Mesa, Arizona where he drove the school bus for Mesa Public schools for over a decade. He has 15 grandchildren and 32 great grandchildren.

A viewing will be held at Bunker Family Funerals, 33 N. Centennial Way Mesa, Arizona 85201, on Thursday Dec. 26, 2024, from 9-10 a.m. Preceded by a graveside service at 2 p.m. at Reed Hatch Memorial Cemetery in Taylor, Arizona. He will be laid to rest next to his wife Sandra.

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.

Gerald Orvil Miller (“Jerry”), true to his nature, quietly exited this life on December 20, 2024 in Gilbert, Arizona. Although his passing was modest, he was worthy of a glorious welcome on the other side: “Well done, thou good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.”

Jerry was born on June 18, 1943 in Mesa, Arizona, to Henry & Ida Miller. He grew up in San Diego, California, where his two older brothers, Henry Jr. & Robert, provided him with numerous alarming adventures on land, in air, and on sea. After graduating from San Diego High School in 1961, Jerry attended Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah.

From 1963-65, he served as a missionary in the Chile Santiago Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In July of 1967, he married Elizabeth (“Liz”) Hatch in the Mesa Arizona Temple. They moved to Lincoln, Nebraska, where Jerry graduated from the University of Nebraska Dental School in 1973. He began his dental career in Cortez, Colorado.

In 1980, Jerry, Liz, and their four children moved to Monticello, Utah, to continue his dental practice there. Monticello was a wonderful place to raise a family and to make lifelong friends. Jerry was the town’s dentist for over 30 years, where he strived to be a trusted and respected member of his community and church. Jerry and Liz lived in Monticello until his retirement in 2012. They served as missionaries in the Mexico City Temple from 2012-2013. Jerry and Liz then settled in Gilbert, Arizona. After Liz’s passing in August 2016, he married Karen Whipple in November of 2017.

Jerry lived his life as a testament to his unwavering faith in God, our loving Heavenly Father, in Jesus Christ, our Savior, and in the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ. This enduring faith is the legacy he most hoped to leave for his loved ones.

Jerry is survived by: his wife, Karen; his children Brandt (Julie) Miller, Candacy (Christian) Syphus, Logan (Berklee) Miller, and Kiffany (Josue) Javier; 16 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild; and further survived by other family and friends, including his stepchildren Quint, Bret, Jase, Marni, Chad, and their spouses. Jerry is preceded in death by his wife Elizabeth, his parents, and his brothers.

Jerry’s funeral services occur on Saturday the 18th of January, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the LDS Chapel at 2958 S. Recker Rd., Gilbert, AZ.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers at Ohana Adult Care Home and Azorna Hospice for providing such dedicated and loving care to Jerry.

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.

Helmut Horst Duschek, age 83 of Mesa, Arizona, passed away December 5, 2024.  Helmut was born to Hermann and Klara Duschek in Pentsch, Kr. Strehlen, Germany.

Helmut completed 8 grades of school and then became a Journeyman in the work of painting and wallpapering.  In 1960, at the age of 19, he brought what he learned to the United States and his life flourished from there.  When he relocated to the States, he lived with his oldest sister, Gisela and her husband, Heinz in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.  Not only was Helmut very artistic while young, he was also very athletic; he ran track and field growing up and he played club sport soccer in Milwaukee.

Helmut joined the US Army on November 8, 1963, training with the first infantry in Kansas, achieving the rank of Specialist E-4.  He was honorably discharged on December 23, 1965, due to his health, being diagnosed with Type I Diabetes.   Helmut became a United States Citizen on June 9, 1967.

Helmut met Patricia Kvamme in 1965 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, who later became his dear life partner on December 29, 1967.  Together, they shared 55 years of marriage, prior to Pat’s passing on December 16, 2023.  Helmut and Pat made a home in Brookfield, Wisconsin and welcomed their firstborn Mark in December 1969.  Daughter Jennifer came along in November 1975.  They relocated to Mesa, Arizona in 1979.

With his artistic talent, Helmut turned his Journeyman learning into a business, Custom Wallpapering Inc.  He took pride in his work with perfectionist qualities, straight cut-in lines and quick, smooth actions.  Helmut carried his talent into canvas landscaping art design as well.  He did not need fancy tools to create his art.  He constructed his easel with a 6-foot ladder and a makeshift resting ledge for the canvas to sit on.  When Helmut saw an image from a magazine or picture that he felt drawn to, Helmut would recreate it on the canvas.  Helmut was crafty in almost anything.  If he could do it, he would tackle any project first or come up with a fixable solution.  He was sharp with directions and enjoyed the use of old-school paper maps.  If a conversation involved a location, he would pull out the city map, state map, or country map and search for the location before continuing the conversation.  He was very routine orientated, from his cornflakes and laberkase for breakfast to a sandwich at lunch, rarely did this deviate.  His hobbies included golf, fishing, daily walks, reading, painting, traveling, nature and as many black and white western shows as possible (Bonanza, The Rifleman, Wagon Train, Tales of Wells Fargo, etc…). He constantly was busy working on a project or tackling something around the house or for the church.

Helmut was a simple man.  He was raised during a time of war with minimal belongings to be had.  Due to the war, he did not meet his father until age 6. His mother and siblings left Pentsch for the first time January/February of 1945 to a town on the Czechoslovakia border, but memories mentioned by his sister Gisela (and note taking by Pat), recalled them being bombed in the town and walking back over the border to Pentsch. After the war, they left Pentsch in 1946 relocating to Oberhausen, Germany where they lived above a bakery.

He might not have been a man of many words, but he was a man of strong devotion, integrity and dependability.  He had much love for his family and a tender heart that cared for his wife and family deeply.  His faith in the Lord evolved through the years.  He knew faith was the foundation for which to live and grew to understand this.  He demonstrated his love for the Lord, through the attention and care he provided to Pat through their marriage and into her later years.  He had unwavering love for his beloved, Pat.

Helmut is survived by son Mark Duschek, daughter Jennifer (Ryan) Ross, grandson Garrett Cauthen, sister Gisela Krueger, brother Kurt (Heidi) Duschek and others within the family. Helmut was preceded in death by his wife Patricia Duschek, his parents Hermann and Klara Duschek, sister Helga Voss, and brothers-in-law Guschen Voss and Heinz Krueger.

A viewing will be held at Bunker Family Memorial 3529 E. University Drive in Mesa, AZ on Saturday, January 4, 2025, from 1pm-2:30pm, followed by a graveside ceremony at 3pm at the City of Mesa Cemetery. The family suggest that memorials may be made to Victory Lutheran Church.

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.

John Wayne Bonar, 77, of Mesa, AZ, passed away peacefully on December 9, 2024 surrounded by loved ones. Born on May 18, 1947 in Paris, France, John lived a life dedicated to family and service.

He is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Mickey and Margo; his niece and nephew; Michelle and Mason; his wife, Peggy; his stepchildren, Roy, Cleo, and Emily; and his step-grandchildren, Camilla and Elara.

John enjoyed spending time outdoors, working on projects around the house, gardening, and volunteering countless hours at his church and community. He was known for his kind heart, strong will, and unwavering support for his loved ones.

John married Peggy and embraced her three children, providing them with a stable home. Though not always in perfect agreement, they are forever grateful for the life he shared with their mother and the dedication he showed to their family.

Services for John will be held on Saturday January 18th 2025, at 11am at Bunker Funeral Home – University Chapel. The address is 3529 E University Dr, Mesa, AZ 85213.

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.

Corwin David Smith of Mesa, Arizona, passed away at age 52 on December 13, 2024. He is the 3rd child and only son of David Arthur Smith and Janell Peel Smith.

He graduated from Mesa High School in 1990 and served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Chicago, Illinois. He attended Mesa Community College and had a deep love for music and computer science. He loved the outdoors and worked as a computer support specialist all of his adult life. Corwin married Tici Lynn French in the Mesa Arizona Temple on November 14, 2009. He served faithfully in many church callings throughout his life.

Corwin’s favorite way to serve the Lord was as a cast member in the Mesa Easter Pageant, where he made many long-lasting friendships. He played several different parts over the years, but his favorite part was that of a Roman Soldier. Corwin shared his testimony through his actions. He remained faithful and true to the gospel of Jesus Christ, always willing to help others, and will be remembered for his honesty and integrity.

He is survived by his wife, Tici, his mother Janell, and sisters Anita, Carrie, and Erin. Corwin was welcomed to the other side by his father, David and sister Lanae. We are grateful to know that death is not the end and we will be together again someday.

Funeral services will take place on Friday, December 27, 2024, viewing at 11:00am and funeral at 12:00pm, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1852 N. Stapley Drive, Mesa, AZ 85203.

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.

“Yippie! Yippie! Yippie!” is what we imagine Mom saying as she was reunited in heaven with her eternal companion, Robert N. Llewellyn, on December 14. Mom peacefully passed away surrounded by loved ones after suffering an unexpected brain hemorrhage that took her life within a few hours.

Marilyn Flake Llewellyn was born in Mesa, AZ to Sam and Rula Flake being the fourth of five children. She grew up on the family farm in Scottsdale “with those dang Shetland ponies”.

Mom met the love of her life, Bob Llewellyn, at one of his band gigs (when she was on a date with another guy) where she introduced herself as Gertrude. When Dad didn’t make fun of her fake name she thought “this guy is better than the one I came with”. He would teasingly call her Gertrude throughout their 49 years of marriage together.

After a five-year courtship they were married for time and all eternity on April Fool’s Day 1972 in the Mesa Arizona temple.

While Dad worked and was serving in his church leadership callings, Mom supported him and held down the fort at home with their 6 good luck CHARMS. Her life’s focus was on Jesus Christ and becoming more like Him. She spent many years serving as ward and stake Relief Society President and Young Women’s President. But later in life, her favorite calling was Nursery Leader.

Mom loved chocolate, especially mint chocolate. The morning of her passing she complained of a headache. We attributed it to that morning’s chocolate binge. We are lovingly calling her passing “death by chocolate”.

Being the most loving and generous person, she gave of her time, talents, and resources to those struggling and in need. There were always extra guests at holidays and Sunday family dinners.

Together, Mom and Dad served a mission in the Maryland Baltimore Mission from 2018-2019. While there they met wonderful people, who impacted their lives tremendously. When Dad got sick in Baltimore, she showed great strength, stamina, and love as she held vigil by his hospital bed for 8 months.

In her final years, Mom suffered from dementia which made life with her even more entertaining. She thought everyone she met was her best friend and had a story to tell anyone who would listen. She was constantly smiling and radiated light, happiness, and positivity.

Marilyn is preceded in death by her husband Bob Llewellyn and her 3 older siblings Deone Croff, Sandy Risley, and Dennis Flake. She is survived by her children Cambria (Scott) Blair, Heather (Sam) Gray, Angela (Mike) Kelly, Robert Jr, Matthew (Holly), Steven, 17 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and her brother Reed Flake.

A viewing will be held Friday, December 20 from 6 pm-8 pm at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 5104 W Pinnacle Peak Rd, Glendale, AZ. Burial services will be Saturday, December 21 at Paradise Memorial Gardens, 9300 E Shea Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ at 9 am followed by a visitation at 10 am and funeral services at 11 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 5104 W Pinnacle Peak Rd, Glendale, AZ 85310.

This Christmas season, please take time to reflect on your many blessings, hug your loved ones a little tighter and find beauty in airplanes and sunsets.

-Progressing Together Forever CHARMS

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.

Click here to view a live stream of the service.

It is with a mix of great sadness and rejoicing we announce the passing and celebration of our beloved Bryon Keith Madsen. He held the distinction of being loved by all. There wasn’t a person who met him that wasn’t entertained by his quick wit and wonderful sense of humor. He was a casserole-loving, small town, simple guy who found levity in everything. It was truly the tool that got him through life and even at the end of a very difficult journey with diabetes and heart failure it was still intact.

Bryon was born in Rigby, Idaho May 6, 1949, to Leda Mae and George Keith Madsen. He was the eldest of their five children and a beloved older brother to Lamar, Karen, Colleen and Dalan. He was always proud of his small-town Idaho roots and was quick to tell you Rigby was the birthplace of television.

In 1969 Bryon served a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Arizona California mission. He graduated from Rick’s College and then from the Phoenix Police Academy (achieving highest marksmanship). After just one year as a police officer, he decided it didn’t fit the family life he wanted more. So, he turned in his badge and headed to BYU.  It was there that he met his wife and great love of his life Sidney Ray. After a quick engagement they were married in the Mesa Arizona Temple on April 30, 1976, and that same year he graduated from BYU.

He spent his career in the banking and mortgage industries and eventually started his own business, Mesa Mortgage, with Leonard Richards. Bryon loved basketball and for years he planned his life around a good half-court game. He took up running and ran the Phoenix marathon and many Mesa Turkey Trots.

He served in numerous church callings including the organist, youth leader, three Bishoprics and on the Lehi Stake High Counsel. But what he would really want you to know about him was his children because they were his greatest accomplishment.

He was proud of his daughter Candice’s accomplishments as a journalist and television news producer. She inherited her interviewing skills from her dad who always knew how to ask people questions about themselves and made everyone feel special. Bryon loved and appreciated the way Natalie kept him looking good with her hairstyling skills and like her dad, Natalie is everyone’s biggest cheerleader. He relished watching “the boy” Roman excel in sports and then begin his career in psychiatry. Like his dad, Roman is a leader and protector. Rachel inherited her dad’s charm and love of running and is the sunshine of the family. He loved watching Hayley dance, and everyone agrees she also inherited his wit, and Bryon was one proud Papa when Rissa, the baby of the family, started her own successful business. Like her dad, Rissa knows how to bring the fun. Bryon loved his 18 grandchildren, and they too became the center of his life.

One of Bryon’s greatest pieces of advice to his children was ‘to have a friend, you have to be a friend’ and it is evident by his many lifelong friendships that he was also a good friend, and these friendships blessed his life immensely.

Please join us in a celebration of his life December 20 from 6-8 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ Ridge Ward Building, 2220 N. Harris, Mesa, Arizona. Funeral service will be held Saturday, December 21st at 11:00 a.m. at the same location. Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. prior to the service.

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.

Pamela Vogel, 57, passed away on December 14, 2024, in Chandler, Arizona. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel (480.964.8686).

Margaret Valencia Nevares, 73, passed away on December 13, 2024, in Chandler, Arizona. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel (480.964.8686).

Jane G. Holliway Bergner, 77, of Mesa, AZ, died December 13, 2024, from complications of multiple sclerosis.

She is survived by her husband, David Bergner of the home; stepson Zachary Bergner, daughter-in-law Jamie Prestridge and grandchildren Max and Izzy, all of Baltimore; brother Robert Holliway of Georgia; brother-in-law Mike Bergner and nephew Brien Bergner and niece Karin Bergner Metcalfe; of Blue Springs, MO; her close  Bushman cousins of Virginia and Pennsylvania;  her ‘’surrogate granddaughter’’ Katie Fanslow; and many dear friends.

Much gratitude to her hospice RN Joye Brookestone, in easing her final transition.

Jane was born in Jefferson City, Mo to the late Mary Francis and Robert Holliway where she attended elementary and high school. She obtained bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education and an Education Specialist diploma from the University of Missouri- Columbia where she belonged to Kappa Alpha Theta sorority.  She always remained a loyal “Mizzou Tiger.”

She loved teaching and taught English at Truman High School in Independence, MO for 28 years, receiving the Teacher of the Year Award in 1985-86 for inspiring thousands of students.  She was well respected and admired by her students, colleagues and staff and relished her nickname of “Witch Jane.’’  She retired in 1998 because of MS, which was diagnosed in 1991.  She continued working for the school district part-time supporting home-bound students until 2008.  To the end, she was a dedicated, consummate educator who guided and influenced so many.

She met Dave, the love of her life and soulmate, on a blind date in 1982 and they married in January 1985. They lived in Kansas City, Mo until June 2010, when they relocated to sunny Arizona.  Jane enjoyed many road trips and cruises with Dave, concerts, plays, times with friends and relatives, the KC Royals, her crime shows, her swimming pool, and her nightly beer.  She was always upbeat and valiantly fought MS.  Jane is remembered for her beauty, wit, big, warm smile and trademark, “I’m Peachy!”

Cremation.  No funeral or memorial service. Remember her with a toast in her name.

Instead of flowers, please donate to the MS Society or the Humane Society or ASPCA in her name.

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.

Angela Denise Shounkwiler, 80, beloved mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully at home in Goodyear, Arizona on December 7, 2024.  

Born May 12, 1944, in Corby, Northamptonshire, England.  Angela moved to the United States in 1964, eventually settling in Mesa, AZ where she built a life filled with love, joy and cherished memories.  Always a loyalist to her beloved English roots.  

Angela was the devoted wife of Keith Shounkwiler, and later in life, loyal partner to Bill Wright.  She was a proud mother of two children: Vickie Gregory (Tom) and Leeann Bramble (Ken). Angela always said her girls were her greatest accomplishment in life.  

Angela adored her three grandchildren, Anthony (Britani), Ryan (Breanna) and Amanda (Eric), she had 4 great-grandchildren who she loved dearly.  Her family was her greatest source of pride, happiness and inspiration.  

Angela enjoyed a successful career in real estate and property management.  Once retired, she enjoyed cruising the world, music and spending time with her family and friends. 

To honor Angela’s wishes a private cremation through Bunker Family Funeral home will take place.  

Though we are broken-hearted and mourn the loss of our mother, we find solace in the memories she left behind, allowing us to rejoice in the life she lived and the unwavering love she shared with us.

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.

Mary Sandra Langley, born July 27, 1938, in Atlanta, Georgia, to Andrew Taft Langley and Naomi Arline Day, passed away on December 10, 2024, in Mesa, Arizona.

Sandra is survived by her daughters Wendy Anne Roberts (Dave) and Catherine Anne Richards, and her sons Michael Gregory Langley and Timothy Andrew Langley. She is also lovingly remembered by her grandchildren: Casey Roberts (Natalie), M. Blake Roberts (Amanda), Holly Roberts (Thor Mikesell), Lou Roberts, Emily Masline (John), Erin Smith (Kyle), Grace Langley, Hannah Langley, Joseph Richards, and Meagan Richards, along with 11 great-grandchildren. Her family meant everything to her.

Sandra had a deep love for the South and cherished her Southern heritage. She was passionate about researching family history and cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs. Her life was a testament to perseverance and hard work. At the age of 59, Sandra fulfilled a lifelong dream of attending law school. She graduated from the University of Utah, passed the bar exam on her first attempt, and became the oldest graduate in the program’s history at that time. After graduating, Sandra worked in the Utah Attorney General’s Office, where she continued to serve others through her legal expertise.

A convert to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Sandra’s faith was a guiding light in her life. She faithfully served in numerous callings, including teaching early morning seminary, serving as Relief Society President, and working in the temple. A handwritten note on her mirror read, “Comfort the weary, strengthen the weak,” words that perfectly captured her spirit of kindness and service to those around her.

Sandra shared a special bond with her cousins, treasuring the time spent together and the laughter they shared throughout the years.

Special thanks to Sky Vista Assisted Living for giving her such joy and care in her final year of life. Her family is deeply grateful for friends who were loved as family, bringing comfort and companionship in her later years. The family would also like to thank Bunker Family Funeral Homes for handling Sandra’s arrangements with care and compassion.

Sandra will be laid to rest in the Decatur Cemetery in Georgia. Honoring her wishes, there will be no formal funeral service. Family and friends are invited to privately celebrate her memory. Her family will gather in the spring to bury her beside her parents, where her final wish of a Scottish bagpiper playing “Amazing Grace” will be fulfilled.

Sandra’s life was one of love, strength, and quiet service. Her legacy of faith and family will live on through the generations she inspired.

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.