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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.

Wallace Dea Montague, Jr., 79, passed away at home on November 25, 2024. He was born on July 8, 1945, in Orange, California, to Wallace Dea Montague and Maxine Walker. His life was dedicated to his faith, family, and community.

Dea lived in several small Utah towns, with his older sister Carol and younger brothers Paul, Mark and John.  Growing up the family loved gardening, picnics in the canyons, and camping. Dea enjoyed student government, choir, sports, and the Boy Scouts.  He served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Texas from 1964 to 1966.

He was elated when Marcia Lindblom agreed to marry him on August 18, 1967, in the Mesa Arizona Temple. Together, they raised nine children: Jenny (Randy) Richardson, Tyler (Tiffini), Trent (Mary Jo), Molly (JR) Wright, Jill (Evan) Jones, Kate (Jay) Arnett, David (Stephanie), Lindsey Sharp, and Mike (Mollie).  Dea loved being with his kids and rarely missed an event they were involved in.

Dea earned his Bachelors degree from BYU, and Juris Doctorate from Arizona State University. He also served in the U.S. Army Reserve.

Dea gave full effort wherever he was asked to serve.  He especially enjoyed working in Scouting. Countless boys credit him for helping them earn the rank of Eagle Scout.  During his church service he helped develop programs for members struggling in a variety of situations, and was a champion for young single adults. He was very involved in the community, and especially supportive of Mesa Public Schools.

Sharing the gospel was a lifelong priority to Dea.  Serving with Marcia in the Colorado Denver North Mission from 2005 to 2008 was a joy for both of them. They have never stopped being missionaries.

He loved being with family. He looked for every opportunity to gather with them. Each of his family members knew how much they were loved by him. Most of all, he knew who he was, and why he was here on earth. He was a follower of Jesus Christ.

The funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 30, at 11 AM at 613 N Stewart, Mesa, AZ. There will be opportunities to visit with the family following the service.

The service will be streamed here: https://zoom.us/j/91397996008?pwd=sBYNC7Cvav7cSWrWsU1gibAU7gsIBQ.1

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 hearts full of love and fond memories, we announce the passing of BJ Garcia, 42 of Gilbert AZ.  Known for his big smile and bigger heart, he will be missed by both family and friends.

People and things that BJ loved, he loved deeply.  He especially loved his family, and they loved him immeasurably in return.

BJ loved motorcycles, music of all types, movies, comedy, and nature.  He watched Jean-Claude Van Damme movies like Bloodsport and Kickboxer every time he saw them on.  His favorite television show was It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, and he quoted from it daily   and watched it before bed almost every night.  BJ was an avid San Francisco 49ers fan and had passionately followed them since childhood.

A devoted husband and father, BJ enjoyed spending time with his family watching football, golfing, going to movies, comedy shows, concerts, and spending time in Greer, AZ.

With his big heart and love for people BJ never passed up an opportunity to help others.

A Celebration of Life for BJ Garcia will be held on Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 1:00 until 4:00 PM at Together at The Landing, 2613 Thunderbird Circle, Mesa, AZ.  Please wear Hawaiian or San Francisco 49ers attire.

As BJ frequently quoted from Frank Reynolds of It’s Always Sunny, “Well, I don’t know how many years on this earth I got left.  I’m gonna get real weird with it.  Meanwhile, block the wind, I’m gonna roast this bone”.

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.

A Tribute to Karen Atwood West.

Today, we gather with full hearts to celebrate the life of Karen Atwood West, a remarkable woman who exemplified Christlike love and devotion throughout her time on this earth.

Karen’s life was a testament to her deep faith, her selfless service and her abiding love for her family and community. Her dedication to her church was unwavering and she found great joy in serving countless ways; always willing to lend a hand and uplift others with her kindness and compassion. Her faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ guided her every step and illuminated her path, inspiring all who knew her.

As a nurse, Karen carried that same spirit of service into her professional life. She had a gift for comforting others, for being present in their moments of need and for offering healing – not just through her skills but through her warm and empathetic presence. Many were touched by her and she became a source of hope and strength for countless individuals and families.

But above all, Karen’s greatest joy was her family. She cherished her loved ones and built a home filled with love, laughter and faith. Her devotion to her family extended beyond this life, as she held a steadfast belief in the eternal nature of families. She found peace in the teachings of the Book of Mormon, particularly in the promise of eternal families. As we read in Mosiah 2:41 : “Consider on the blessed and happy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are blessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out faithful to the end, they are received into heaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness.” This sacred truth gave Karen hope and it gives us hope today that we will be reunited with her again in a state of never-ending happiness through the eternal bonds of family.

Karen’s legacy is one of love, faith and service. Her life touched so many and her memory will continue to inspire us to follow her example of selflessness, kindness and devotion. We honor her today and we look forward with faith to the day when we will be reunited with her, embracing the eternal promise that she cherished so deeply.

We love you, Karen. Until we meet again.

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.

Cynthia (Cindy) Lynn Rogers Decker, age 56, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, November 21, 2024, after a five-year journey with ovarian cancer, which she faced with courage, faith, kindness, humor, and grace. Cindy was born March 5, 1968, in San Diego, California to Harlon H. Rogers and Sharon Veneta Green Rogers. She married her eternal sweetheart David Lee Decker on July 31, 1987, by being sealed together in the Mesa Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Cindy developed a deep love for seeking truth through reading, research, and education.  This passion led her to graduate from Snowflake High School in 1986 with distinction, attend Brigham Young University (BYU) from 1986-1987, graduate from BYU Idaho Pathway in 2017, graduate with an associate’s degree from BYU Idaho in 2019, and then graduate with a bachelor’s degree in professional studies from BYU Idaho in December 2022, summa cum laude with a 4.0 GPA.  She passed this love of learning along to her five children through her tender and selfless decision to homeschool her children from 1994-2003 and then again from 2008-2012.

She was a prolific researcher and writer and prepared several extensive books and manuscripts that she shared with friends and family including The Odyssey – Journal of a Homeschooling Mom (2017), A World Chronology of Ancient Civilizations (2017), The Words of Jesus of Nazareth (Extracted Textually from the New Testament) (2019), The Words of Jesus Christ (Extracted Textually from the Book of Mormon) (2019), On Eagle’s Wings: My Ovarian Cancer Journey (2021), REVERSAL: My Ovarian Cancer Journey, Part II (2024), and Isaiah in the Book of Mormon (2024).

Cindy grew to love family history and during her five-year cancer journey added countless memories to Family Search and other family history sources including several recorded and transcribed interviews with her parents, parents-in-law, and grandmother-in-law. She loved music and was an accomplished musician on both piano and guitar. She was an all-around outstanding athlete, having played on Snowflake High School’s first state championship softball team in 1986, several city and church championship softball teams, and in later years taking up golf.

Her steadfast faith in the restored gospel of Jesus Christ was a key foundation of Cindy’s life. She served with dedication as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including as ward Young Women’s President, ward Relief Society President, Relief Society, Primary, and Sunday School teacher (including serving at her death as a Primary teacher with her husband Lee), ward Scout Committee Chair, stake Girl’s Camp Director, ward and Primary accompanist, and Primary chorister.

Cindy is survived by her husband, Lee Decker; her five children, Keri Ford, Camille Carrasquillo, Nikole Squires, Justin Decker, and Bryce Decker; her six grandchildren, Audrey Ford, Benson Ford, Bentley Carrasquillo, Max Ford, Isaac Carrasquillo, and Gwen Decker; her parents, Harlon Rogers and Sharon Green Rogers; and her two sisters, Suzie Webb and Karen Wood.

A celebration of Cindy’s life will be held on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. with a visitation from 10-11 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint chapel on 7752 E. McDowell Rd, Mesa, Arizona.  A family only viewing will be held Friday evening, November 29, 2024, from 6-8 p.m. at Bunker’s University Chapel, 3529 E. University Dr, Mesa, Arizona.

If you are unable to attend the services, please click on the following link to livestream the service: https://zoom.us/j/97247984464

The following is a YouTube link to a slideshow:  https://youtu.be/ty2zOQLQOIE

Please click on the following link to view a video recording of Cindy’s funeral service:  https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1QICGoVapbS894cCv4IXGZlFNJAVm2-8T

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.

Grant Durfee, 81, of Mesa, AZ, passed away on November 9, 2024. Born on July 28, 1943, in Vernal, Utah, Grant was an incredible husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, and friend. He dedicated his life to his passion for mechanics, running a successful mechanics shop for many years.

Grant was known for his profound kindness and generosity. He was deeply dedicated to taking care of his family and was always willing to help anyone in need, reflecting the genuine love he had for others.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sharlett Durfee; four children, Morris Durfee, Verl Durfee, Cory Durfee, and Tammy Cline; and nine grandchildren, Mark Durfee, Stephan Durfee, Brian Durfee, Kristen Page, Jacob Cline, Joshua Cline, Samuel Cline, Alyssa Elman, and Sara Dohm. He also leaves behind eleven great-grandchildren, who will all cherish his memory.

A viewing will be held at Bunker Family Mortuary on November 22, 2024, from 6-8 PM, located at 3529 E University, Mesa, AZ 85213. Funeral services will take place at the LDS Church, located at 618 S. Signal Butte, Mesa, AZ 85207, at 10 AM, followed by a burial service at Mesa Cemetery, 1212 N Center Street, Mesa, AZ 85201, at 12:30 PM.

Grant will be missed dearly and remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

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.

Kenneth Everett “Tony” Davis passed away on November 7, 2024. He fought a long battle with cancer, which he eventually lost.

He is left by his parents Arnold and Sue Davis, of Tempe, AZ, his sister Karen Davis (Nancy Pedersen) and his brother Craig Davis (Melanie). He is predeceased by his sister Carolyn Davis Gilson. Born as the youngest of four in 1963 in Fort Walton Beach, FL.

He learned to water ski at an early age and loved water all of his life. He was an avid fisherman, a passionate hunter and bowler. Ken lived his whole life in Arizona and loved the outdoors and all it had to offer him. Tony loved football, if the 49’ers were playing, he was watching. Ken was a loved son, brother and friend. He will be missed.

A public military service will be held on November 26, 2024, at 12:45pm at The National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona.

https://www.cem.va.gov/cems/nchp/nmca.asp

Please see kiosk at main entrance for exact location.

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.

Patricia Ann Gibson passed away on October 23rd, 2024 in Mesa, AZ.

The first child born to O.E. and Georgiann Turner came into the world on a blistering hot day in Buckeye, AZ.  They named her Patricia.  By the age of 5 she was assisting in the war effort by rolling bandages at her church and collecting rubber and scrap to drop off at school.  At the age of 18 she graduated from South Mountain High School in Phoenix, where she excelled at debate and was head cheerleader.

It’s impossible to highlight 85-plus years of a life well-lived, full of travel and adventure.  She lived from San Diego to Puerto Rico, and from Detroit to Del Rio, Texas.  At the age of 40 she graduated from Arizona State University and became an educator and climbed to the top of a Swiss Alp at 80 years young.

Patricia, know to her family and friends as Pat or “Aunt Pat,” is preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, Willam B. Gibson, a son, William B. Gibson, Jr., and sister, Sharon Drummond.  She leaves behind a son and daughter, Daniel Gibson of Los Angeles, CA and Helen Chlupsa of Payson, AZ, a sister and brother, Donna Strait and O.E. Turner, Jr., 5 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren.

To all who knew her, Pat was gregarious, humorous, unparalleled, irreplaceable, and unforgettable.

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.

Our loving mother, Mariana Huish Francis, peacefully passed November 17, 2024 with her boys and family surrounding her.  Mariana was born July 13^th, 1932 to Beulah Haynie and Leo Nephi Huish in Douglas, Arizona. She was their seventh child of nine.  Her siblings were among her dearest friends.  Her two sons were her pride and joy.  Her grandchildren were her treasures.

Mariana attended school in Douglas through her freshman year.  She moved with her mother and siblings to Mesa, Arizona the Fall of 1946.  Mariana loved learning and graduated from Mesa High as a 16 year old, she was the Salutatorian, a member of the National Honor Society, Quill and Scroll, Gash Tso Service club and was the editor of The Superstition yearbook.  She immediately started college and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Education in 1953, later obtaining a Master of Arts in Education in 1968 also from Arizona State University.

Mariana met the love of her life, Gene Hutchison Francis, at a church fireside.  They were married and sealed for time and eternity in the Mesa, Arizona Temple on June 8^th, 1951.  Her husband only lived 9 more years and passed from a terminal illness leaving her with her two young boys.  Mariana, one of the strongest and educated women of her time, was able to provide for her family because of her education and her ability to teach.  She taught school for over 45 years. Gene Huish Francis was born August 14^th, 1953 in Mesa, Arizona and Bruce Rollins Francis was born February 21, 1957 in Ogden, Utah.

She was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and spent her life serving others.  Christmas was one of her favorite seasons and we will miss her joyous laugh and her famous lemon merengue pie.   She had such a strong will and was a force for good.  Her grandchildren were so loved by her and she spent many hours playing marbles, Trouble, pick- up-sticks and hopscotch with them.   She loved holding all the grandbabies and had an endless supply of popsicles, crayons, colored pencils and markers.   She took pride in her home which was so well kept and her front yard was manicured perfectly. Family was so important to her and she kept in touch with so many loved ones and friends through the years.  She spent many hours organizing family records and hours and hours serving those around her.

Services for Mariana will be December 7^th, 2024 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints chapel located at 2424 N Old Gilbert Rd, Mesa, Arizona 85213.  A viewing will be held at 9:00 am with services beginning at 10:00 am.   The internment will be at the South Morgan Cemetery in Morgan, Utah.

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.