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Dixie Cummings Tawzer, 78, passed away on December 11, 2024, in Mesa, Arizona, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Dixie was born in Heber, Utah, on June 24, 1946, and raised in California.

She attended college at Brigham Young University where she was an excellent student and met the man of her dreams, Lynn H. Tawzer, at the orientation dance. They fell in love and were married for 56 wonderful years before Lynn passed away suddenly in 2022. Lynn and Dixie lived in Provo, Utah for 12 years and then moved to Mesa, Arizona in 1977.

Dixie’s biggest priorities in life were her husband and family and she was never happier than when she was with them. Dixie excelled in everything that makes a house a home. She was a gifted seamstress, decorator, cook, and loved all things homemaking. She made the holidays fun and decorated the house with fun items that her children now cherish. She made Christmases memorable and always made birthdays special. She had a great love for the mountains and enjoyed camping. She also enjoyed being at the beach and would often cry at the sight of a beautiful Arizona sunset. She took up photography later in life and also became the bookkeeper for their electrical contracting business until they retired in 2020.

Dixie was a life-long member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She served in many callings and especially enjoyed serving in the temple with her husband.

Dixie was preceded in death by her husband, Lynn; her parents, Maevon (Robert) Mahoney Conquer, Grant W. McDonald, Hal A. Cummings, Robert E. Conquer, and Mable (Larry) Lassen; granddaughter, Lindsey Tawzer; brothers, Steven (Gayle) McDonald, and Gary (Susan) Kohler. She is survived by her four children, Maria (Kirk) Lamb, Jeff (Julie) Tawzer, Stacy (Chet) Randall, and Joanne (Mistie) Wagner, along with 17 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren (and 1 on the way). She is also survived by her sisters, Cathie (Bruce) Layman, Cindy (Lee) Dove, Glenda (Thomas) Osten, and Jolyn (Mike) Hulse; brothers, Kasey (Jenny) Cummings, Brett (Cindy) Cummings, Mark (Shirley) McDonald, Vance (Karen) Kohler, and Kevin (Sondra) Kohler.

A graveside service will be held on December 21, 2024, at 11:00 am, at Mountain View Cemetery, 7900 E. Main St., Mesa, AZ 85207.

Bunker Family Funerals & Cremation, 3529 E. University Dr., Mesa, AZ 85213 is handling arrangements.

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.

Robert Keith Bryce “Bob”

Age 94 years, of Gilbert Arizona, passed away on Sunday, December 8, 2024. Bob was born on April 11, 1930, in Pima, Graham, Arizona.  He is the third child of parents, Brooks and Norma (Follett) Bryce.  Predeceased by siblings; Margie, Kent, & Bill.

Bob married his high-school sweetheart, Philis McBride on June 18, 1947, and enjoyed 73 years together until her passing in 2020.  Together they had 8 children: Carol, Jane, Gary, Amy, Kevin, Laurel, Michael, & Nathan.  They also fostered Selena Shortman & Oscar Singer during some of their elementary school years.

Bob & Philis raised their family in Phoenix Arizona, where Bob worked for 35 years at Arizona Public Service (APS) mainly in the computer programming dept.

After retirement, Bob & Philis served numerous missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  They began on the island of Mauritius where they came to love the people they met, then later went to Vermont, where they would visit numerous towns to film vital record archives, to be used in family history research.  Bob’s knowledge of computers and record keeping continued as they worked at the Mesa Family History Center.  Philis loved indexing records and helping others find their ancestors.

They thrived as a team not only with family life but also in serving & helping others wherever they went.  Their Lord & Savior has always been the foundation upon which they dedicated and built their lives upon.  Their home was a place of refuge for many family members and friends and their door always open.

Bob leaves behind his younger sister; Janet Larson, and his posterity of 8 children and their spouses/companions, 29 grandchildren, 87 great grandchildren & 14 great-great grandchildren (138 total). As well as many beloved friends and relatives.  According to his sister, he and his brother Bill were the best brothers anyone could ever have.  The rest of us would agree that he is by far “the best.”

Bob loved reading, poetry, being outdoors in nature, good music, and learning.  He was a great listener and was always interested in what others had to share and would give his undivided attention to them.  He taught by example with kindness,  gentleness & love.  He truly is a disciple of Christ.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 21st at 9:00am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints located at 1483 N Driftwood Drive,  Gilbert, AZ 85234.

Graveside Dedicatory services will follow at 3:00 pm at the Pima cemetery located at 487 W 800 S, Pima, AZ  85543.

If you are unable to attend the services, please click on the following link to livestream the service: http://Brother Bryce Memorial Service 12-21-2024 – YouTube

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.

Karl Reece McCleve passed away on December 6, 2024. He was born on October 29, 1952, in McNary, Arizona, to Jerry Hatch and Leo Reece McCleve. Karl was the third of four children and was preceded in death by his infant brother, Darrell Lee. He was deeply loved by his sisters, Lynda and Darlene.

Karl was raised in Show Low and Taylor, Arizona, embracing the life of a cowboy. He fondly recalled his time spent at his granddad’s ranch near Taylor, where his love for ranching and the outdoors took root. Karl graduated from Snowflake High School in 1970 and attended Eastern Arizona College. He was a proud member of the rodeo club, where he continued his love of bull riding.

Karl served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Belfast, Ireland, a service he treasured deeply. His love for missionary work extended far beyond his formal mission, and he remained a lifelong missionary, cherishing his roles as a ward and stake missionary.

Karl was a skilled carpenter and homebuilder renowned for his craftsmanship, integrity, and attention to detail. Among his many projects, he took great pride in contributing to the construction of the Gilbert, Arizona Temple. Karl had a profound love for his family and his heritage. His dedication to family history work reflected his pride in his pioneer and Irish ancestry, as he honored the legacy of those who came before him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jerry Hatch and Leo Reece McCleve, and his brother, Darrell Lee McCleve. Karl is survived by his beloved sisters, Lynda Brinkerhoff and Darlene Dickenson; his children, Rebecca (Seth) Traeger, Emily (Marc) Nunes, Jason McCleve, and Taylor McCleve; and his nine adored grandchildren—Parker, Madison, Austin, Colton, Kinsley, Kelsey, Kayley, Bennett, and Brycen—who lovingly called him Grandpa Mac. Many nieces, nephews, and cousins also survive him. Karl’s legacy of love, faith, and hard work will be remembered by all who knew him.

Funeral services will be held at 9:30 am on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Discovery Ward Building, 3307 S. Greenfield Rd., Gilbert, Arizona. A viewing will be held at 8:30 am prior to the services. Internment will be at the Reed Hatch Memorial Cemetery at 3 p.m. in Taylor, AZ.

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.

Tanya Collins passed away Saturday, October 19, after a long illness.  Tanya was preceded in death by her parents, Maureen and Col. RIP Collins.  She is survived by her two brothers, Bob and Terry (Betty) Collins.

Tanya graduated from high school in Tokyo, Japan; earned a bachelor’s degree from University of Missouri School of Journalism in 1967; and a master’s degree from the University of Phoenix in 1996.  Upon her graduation from the University of Missouri, she was employed by the Mesa Tribune to cover police and fire news.  She joined the ASU News Bureau as an editorial assistant in 1973.  In 1976 she was hired by the City of Mesa as Public Information Coordinator and stayed with the city in various positions until she retired in 2003.

During her life she pursued many interests including traveling, woodworking, ceramics, camping, riding horses, sports, and, of course, reading, writing, and photography.  She was a valued member of an investment club and two book clubs for many years.  Tanya led a very full and diverse life.  Her wit and compassion will be missed by all who knew her.

Tanya’s funeral will be at 11 AM, Saturday, December 14, 2024, at the LDS Church at 848 N. Westwood, Mesa, AZ.  The doors will open at 10 AM to view the memory display and share stories with others about her wonderful life.

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.

Jamie Posey 54 passed away peacefully on November 29, 2024, in San Tan Valley, AZ.

Jamie led a very happy and active life filled with family, friends. She is survived by her husband David, children DW, and Michael, sisters Tica and Bridgette.

Funeral services will be December 14, 2024, at 10:00am at Bunker’s Garden Chapel 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa AZ 85201.  There will be a visitation at 9:00am preceding the funeral service.  A graveside will follow at the City of Mesa Cemetery 1212 N. Center Street, Mesa AZ 85201.  There will be a gathering following the graveside at Michelle and Harry’s house for family and friends at 811 West Judi Drive, Casa Grande AZ 85122.

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.

Bryan Gulish 46, passed away in his sleep on December 2, 2024. Bryan was born in Flint Michigan and moved to Arizona in 1986. Bryan was most recently employed by Kary Environmental as a hazmat technician. Bryan held multiple industry certifications.

Bryan, known to his friends as “50”, was a sensitive individual with a wonderful sense of humor. He never failed to end a phone call to family members with “Luv ya”.  Bryan enjoyed working on cars, especially VW’s, participating in UTV racing such as “Best of the Desert”, skateboarding and fishing. Bryan had a keen interest in maps and spent time collecting and studying them. Bryan started drawing/sketching as a boy and continued this throughout his life.  He also had a love for animals, particularly dogs.

Bryan is survived by his parents Gregory Gulish (Angela) and Karen Kehm, stepmother Kelly Kiser (Fred), son Keegan Campbell, sisters Gayle Gulish, Kaitlyn Gulish, and Nicole Matteson (Tim), nephews Devon Rutz and Jameson Gulish. Residing in Michigan: uncle Michael Kehm, aunt Shari Godley, nephew Boyd Brooks (Tay), nieces Rachelle Raynesworth and Jada Matteson.

Others who were very special in Bryan’s life, that he loved and cared deeply for include Dave “Dayz” Towns, Ashleigh Lattimore and her parents, John and Kathy Lattimore.

A Memorial Service will be held in Bryan’s honor at a future date.

Donations may be made in Bryan’s name to the Foundation for Alcoholism Research: https://alcoholismresearch.org/

Jon Ivan Nuland, 92, of Mesa, Arizona passed away peacefully in his home on December 5, 2024.

Jon was born in Bertha, Minnesota on October 11, 1932, to Inez and Sterling Nuland.

After serving in the Navy, he moved to Arizona to attend college at ASU.  While attending a church meeting, he met Louise Jackson.  He was interested in learning what she could tell him about Norway, or at least that was his excuse for talking with her.  Their mutual interest led to marriage.  They were married on December 18, 1961, in the Salt Lake City, Utah Temple.  Jon went to college for architecture, and could draw amazing designs, but he ended up being a carpenter.  He built the house we all grew up in.  His career focus later turned to plumbing.  He got a couple of contractor jobs, just when he really needed them, that helped to pay off debts so that he could retire.  He enjoyed drawing, reading, health and fitness, going boating on the lake, riding his bike, and playing with his kids and grandkids.  Long-time Mesa resident, Jon resided in Arizona for the rest of his life.

He is survived by his brother David, 93, His daughters Jonetta, Maren, Anita, Cynthia, and Amy, thirteen grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren. Preceded in death by his wife Louse, his daughter Julia Anne, his sister Natalie and his parents.

Burial services will be held on Thursday, December 12, 2024, at 9:00 AM at the Mesa Cemetery 1212 N Center St. Mesa AZ.

Funeral/Memorial services will be held on Sunday December 15, 2024, at 3:00 PM at the Church building on 422 E University Dr. Mesa, AZ (NE corner of Mesa Dr. and University).

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.

Cheri Rae Enright passed from this life on December 8th, 2024.

She was born on December 4th, 1953 to Kenneth and Hazel Cartier.

Cheri is survived by her loving husband, Jerry, their children and grandchildren.

Cheri was a loving woman who had a heart for children and helping others.  In recent years, she joined her husband in building and running a business.

All those who knew and loved Cheri are welcome to join the family at a graveside service to honor her on Friday, December 13th at 1:00 PM at the City of Mesa Cemetery.

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.

William Russin, 73, passed away peacefully on December 4, 2024 in Mesa, Arizona. He is survived by his wife Christina and their dog Nikko.

Bill was a botanist and microscopist at the University of Wisconsin and Northwestern University. After Chris retired, they traveled full time in their motorhome for over 5 years. Bill loved hiking, cooking, rock hounding, and photography. He was an excellent musician and often entertained Chris on the road by singing silly lyrics to her favorite songs.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Emerald Glen Memory Care for their exceptional care and compassion.

A Memorial Service will be held in Bill’s honor at a future date.

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.

Evin Mitchel Shiffer passed away November 27, 2024, at just 17 years old.

He was born on May 13, 2007, in Redwood City, Ca, and was a beloved son, brother, nephew, uncle, and friend.

Even at his young age, Evin made a lasting impact on so many through his sense of humor, and his reliable and kind nature.

He is survived by his mother Shana Shiffer, sisters Lana and Hailey Shiffer, brothers Justin and Jacob Shiffer, his nephew Kash Trevizo, his father Lyle Shiffer, stepmom Mary Shiffer, step siblings, grandparents, and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday December 7, 2024, at 2pm at Fountain of Life Church 6056 E. Baseline Rd Mesa, AZ with a reception to follow.

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 “Joey” Paul Counts, a vibrant soul and dedicated servant, joined our Lord at the age of 31 on November 27, 2024, at his home in San Tan Valley, Arizona. Born into a life of divine purpose, Joey was deeply committed to his faith and dedicated to sharing its warmth with everyone he encountered.

Growing up in the East Valley, Joey was a force of nature, excelling in football, baseball, and wrestling. A dedicated athlete, he pursued victory with strong determination and was selfless on and off the field.  Joey’s commitment to faith and service extended beyond athletics, as he actively participated in Best Buddies programs and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes throughout his collegiate years.

After graduating from Desert Ridge High School, Joey furthered his education and athletic career at the University of Montana, earning a bachelor’s degree while proudly representing the Griz football team and leaving a lasting impact on the program. Upon returning to Arizona, he continued to inspire and mentor others through his faith and dedicated himself to training athletes of all levels, pouring his heart and soul into their development.

In 2021, Joey joined the Gilbert Fire and Rescue Department.  He served with honor, enthusiasm, and steadfast dedication.  Joey found purpose in teaching at the fire academy and was a beloved brother. His immense love for his family, fellow firefighters, friends, and everyone he met was evident in his every interaction.

Joey’s unique ability to understand and connect with people on a profound level was a testament to his compassionate nature.  He also conveyed his heart through the strums of his guitar and songwriting.  With his playful spirit and unwavering faith, Joey reminded us all of our inherent capacity for love, forgiveness and greatness.

Joey’s love for his family was boundless.  He had a special place in his heart for his parents and his two younger sisters, whom he adored and protected. Joey is survived by his loving parents, Clint Counts and Leija Counts (Garcia), his precious sisters, Alexis and Savannah, his grandparents, Steve and Marcella Tully (Garcia), Carolyn Woodyard, Don Counts and Jennie Shaw, as well as his uncle Scott Vogler and aunt Nikki Vogler (Counts), uncle Richard T. Garcia, aunt Aries Garcia (Cook), and cousins Holden Garcia, Kate Vogler, and Gwen Vogler.

Joseph’s radiant smile, deep never-ending love, and enduring friendship will forever be cherished while his faith carries us forward.  A funeral service celebrating Joey’s life will be held on December 7, 2024.

James Dennis (Jim), passed away on December 1, 2024 peacefully, surrounded by family at his home in Mesa. A long-time resident of Mesa he was originally from Minnesota.

Born in Minneapolis on June 6, 1932, the family soon moved to Northome, Minnesota where he spent his childhood. After graduating from Northome high school class of 1950, he enlisted in the US Army serving in the Signal Corps.

Jim married Marylyn (Iverson) in 1959. Together they raised their three boys in Minneapolis but also spent many weekends and summer vacations in Northome where together they built a house that Jim’s mother lived in for many years.

After retiring in 1988, Jim and Marylyn moved to Northome and enjoyed fishing, traveling and spending winters in Florida and Arizona. Eventually, they made Arizona their permanent home enjoying the company of many new friends as well as family.

He is survived by two of his sons Matthew and Mitchell and his sister Joanne (Carder) as well as many grandchildren. Preceded in death by Marylyn and Brett (son).

Celebration of life in Minnesota at a date to be determined. Interment at Hillside Cemetery, Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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.

Logan William Stillwell III “Bill” May 19, 1935 – December 1, 2024, Logan William “Bill” Stillwell, devoted husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully at the age of 89 at his home in Mesa, Arizona on Sunday, December 1, 2024. He was surrounded by his beloved wife, Patricia Mae “Pat” Stillwell, their daughters Michelle and Krissy, and their husbands.

Bill was born in Phoenix, Arizona on May 19, 1935, to Logan and Bess Stillwell. His family moved to Mesa during his childhood, a city he would proudly call home for the rest of his life.

A 1954 graduate of Mesa High School, Bill went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering from Arizona State University in 1958 and a Master’s Degree in Engineering in 1970. While he fondly reminisced about his early job in the “movie industry” as an employee at the iconic Nile Theater in downtown Mesa, Bill’s career truly soared as an electrical engineer with Air Research, contributing to the nation’s space program.

He also served his country with pride as a member of the Army Reserves, cherishing memories of his time stationed at Fort Ord in Monterey, California. Bill also contributed to his local community as a member of the board of directors for the Neely Foundation, Mesa Lutheran Hospital, and Copper State Bank where he developed life-long friendships via commerce and philanthropy.

Bill’s life forever changed when he met Patricia Mae Smith, also a Mesa High graduate, on a double date. They married on September 12, 1961, at Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Mesa, embarking on a love story that spanned over six decades. Together, they raised two daughters, Michelle Mae and Kristen Bess.

Bill was a man of deep devotion—to his family, his friends, and his work. He was known for his stories about the army reserves, his adventures flying his airplane, and his many Air Research experiences. Bill was also known for his unwavering kindness and ability to make friends feel like family and acquaintances feel like friends. He had immense pride in his family and loved being Grandpa (aka “Bampy”) to Logan, Grace, Brody, and Clara.

Bill is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Pat; his daughters Michelle Allen (Robert) and Krissy Nielsen (Scott); and his four grandchildren. Bill’s legacy of devotion and dedication to his family and friends will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A graveside service to honor Bill’s life will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday December 7, 2024, at the City of Mesa Cemetery; 1212 North Center Street, Mesa, Arizona.

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.

Robert (Bob) Allen Langford, 72, passed away peacefully at home on November 24th, 2024. Bob was born on July 21st, 1952 to Lamona S. Langford and Moroni Bertren Langford.

Bob was raised in Cedar City, Salt Lake City, and the Tongan Islands. Bob served as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Australia West Misson from 1972 to 1974.   After returning home, he married and was sealed to his sweetheart, Jan Langford, in the Salt Lake City Temple on August 20th, 1974.

Bob is survived by his cherished wife, Jan, their 3 daughters, Jaime, Kathryn, Anne, and their son, Matthew. Also, his two older sisters Sandra Maxwell and Elaine Kirkham. He is preceded in death by his other son Paul and his two older brothers, Cary Langford and Stan Langford.

After years of schooling, he graduated with an MBA and went to work in various aspects of Financial Management.

Bob spent his adult life in various leadership positions in the Church. He especially loved and spent a lot of those years working with many Young Men’s groups in the Boy Scout program to help them achieve their Eagle Scout award.  He had a heart full of service and loved to help his family and those around him.

Viewing services will be held at the LDS church building located at 2228 E. Brown Rd, Mesa, AZ 85213 on December 7th, 2024 from 10:30am to Noon. Funeral Services will follow from Noon to 1pm.

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 A. Trakimas, born on March 21, 1964, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 23, 2024.  Welcoming him home are his parents, Jonas and Sophia Trakimas; his brother, Albert Trakimas; and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Albert and Nellie Toro.

Left to honor his legacy and carry on his traditions are his devoted wife of 34 years, Lucia; his daughter, Alexandria, and son-in-law, Faez; his son, Nikolas, and daughter-in-law, Ashley; his cherished grandchildren, Alina, Amal, and Cohen; and his loyal service dog, Drasa. He is also survived by his sisters, Irene Alivernini and Mary Trakimas, 3 brother-in-laws, 3 sister-in-laws, 10 nieces and nephews, 10 great-nieces and great-nephews and cousins.

John proudly served in the United States Air Force as a master crew chief on the C-141B aircraft. He retired as a Staff Sergeant, leaving behind a legacy of honor, dedication, and excellence in service to his country.  He retired from State Farm Insurance on June 1, 2023 after 24 years of dedicated service and unwavering commitment. He worked in Administrative Services and Auto Injury Claims.

A true Philadelphian at heart, John embraced everything the city had to offer—from savoring authentic cheesesteaks to passionately cheering for his beloved Philadelphia Eagles. Above all, he loved his family deeply and cherished every moment spent with them.

John was the cornerstone of his family and held many cherished titles: husband, father, “Pops,” brother, “Grandpop,” “Papa John,” and uncle. Known for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering support, John was always ready to lend a helping hand, no matter the time or task. His strong character, warm friendship, and compassionate spirit left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. He will forever be remembered as our “gentle giant.”

Funeral services will be held privately in Philadelphia, PA.

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.

Ronald Eugene Baker, known as Ron by all who knew and loved him, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Friday, November 22, 2024, at the age of 80.

Ron was born on July 26, 1944, in San Jose, California, to John Fredrick Baker and Kathleen Dolores Huffmon.

On December 18, 1964, Ron married the love of his life, Patricia Ann Baker, with whom he shared a beautiful marriage of nearly 60 years. Together, they built a strong and loving family, including their four children:  Ronald Baker Jr. (fiancée Jill Gagner), John and Rebekah Baker, Robert and Anne Baker, Kathleen and Ryan Murdock.

Ron was also a devoted grandfather to 42 grandchildren and a proud great-grandfather to 31 great-grandchildren.

Ron joined the U.S. Air Force in April 1964 and honorably served his country as a jet engine mechanic until his discharge in April 1970. His dedication to service extended beyond his military career as he lived his life as an active and faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Over the years, he served in numerous church callings and, alongside his wife Pat, fulfilled a full-time mission in the Arizona Scottsdale Mission, where they lovingly served the communities of Eagar and Springerville, Arizona.

Ron had an outgoing personality and a boundless love for people. He considered everyone a friend and lived a life filled with service and compassion for those around him. His greatest joy was his family, whom he cherished above all else.

Ron is preceded in death by his parents, John Fredrick Baker and Kathleen Dolores Huffmon, and his grandson, Caden John Baker. He leaves behind his sister, Kindra Lea Ponzio, and her husband Dave Rocha, his beloved wife Pat, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and countless friends whose lives he touched deeply.

He was an incredible husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend who will be missed dearly.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 10:00 AM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 1266 S 32nd St, Mesa, AZ 85204. Ron will be laid to rest with military honors at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 2929 E Pinnacle Peak Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85024.

For those unable to attend the service, you can view the service here. 

Ron’s legacy of love, service, and faith will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

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.