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Rodeo entertainer, bullfighter, trick roper, comedian, actor (SAG), family man, and one of the last true cowboys –Troy Nabors passed away unexpectedly on the evening of November 10^th, 2014 in Mesa, Arizona at the age of 83. Troy was born on October 2, 1931 in Antlers, Oklahoma to Buster & Mary Kay Nabors. He is survived by his beloved wife Janice “Jonnie” nee Elder of Mesa, AZ, son Randal (Karen) Robbins, grandsons Steven and William Robbins, 6 nephews, 10 nieces, and a large extended family.

It was a long and winding road from his self-proclaimed “Okie” beginnings through his storied 50 years of show business. For 38 of those years, his housebroken and “educated” mule Slim was his constant companion and cohort. His cowboy comedy antics and trick roping brought him before President John F. Kennedy, President Ronald Reagan, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, and countless captivated audiences. He performed at The Calgary Stampede in Canada, Pendleton Roundup in Oregon, Lakeside Rodeo in California (26 years), Phoenix Jaycees Rodeo of Rodeos, Parada Del Sol, Gilbert Days, Apacheland, and Legend City. He also performed many years at the Stardust Hotel and Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, and won Best Contract Act of IPRA for 3 consecutive years. Above all, he was a good-hearted cowboy, and a friend to all who met him. Troy went from Okie beginnings and became a true Arizona son.

A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held Monday, November 17^th at 1:00PM at the Welcome Home Ranch, 26601 S. Val Vista Drive, Gilbert, AZ 85298.  All are welcome to attend. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel.

Rose Dorothy Ringlero, widow of saddle maker, Mervin Ringlero, and mother of art historian Aleta M. Ringlero of Scottsdale, AZ passed from this earth on Friday, November 7, 2014. Rose, an enrolled member of the Gila River Indian Community, was the daughter of Charles Laws and Sarah Nelson of Phoenix. A graduate of the Santa Fe Indian School, N.M., she enlisted in the U.S. Navy WAVES training as a riveter at age 21. An avid student of classical ballet and the fine arts, she resided in Van Nuys, CA with her family for thirty years before returning to Arizona in 1982.

Public visitation and funeral services are scheduled for 8:30 a.m. on Monday, November 17, 2014 at the Salt River Indian Community Memorial Hall, 9849 East Earll Drive, Scottsdale, AZ followed by a 2:00 p.m. internment at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 23029 North Cave Creek Road, Phoenix, AZ. Rose was 91 and a unique and beautiful presence to those who knew and loved her. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, Mesa, AZ.

John Leo Dammen, “Jack”, was called home to the kingdom of Heaven at the age of 71. There to meet him were his parents, Orlean and Margaret (Coffey) Dammen.  Left to carry his traditions are his sister, Mary Marohl (Marlin), and his children Kenneth B. Dammen (Karen) and Lori A. Rogers.  His legacy will be continued through his 3 granddaughters Megan Rogers, Maddie Rogers, and Grace Dammen.  From his birth in Monroe, Wisconsin on December 2, 1942 to his death in Mesa, Arizona on Tuesday, November11, 2014 he nourished the people around him with love, faith, and music.  He grew up with is sister, Mary, on a farm near Argyle, Wisconsin and attended Pleasant Ridge Country School.  It was in grade school when his passion of playing the accordion began.  He later attended Argyle Public Schools where he played basketball and baseball.  After graduating from Argyle High School he worked at Bub’s Service Station and Swiss Colony.  Jack served in the U.S. Air Force where he was honorably discharged when he was diagnosed with MS.  He was married, lived and worked many years in Monroe and Madison, attended Madison Business College, and later divorced from Carol (Wickey).  His working career included Modern Woodman Insurance, The University of Wisconsin Sports Department, and Marshall Erdman.  His love of music and playing the accordion was his life’s passion.  He retired to Mesa, Arizona in 1979 where he spent the rest of his days. He could be found every morning at Village Inn or sitting with his cat, waiving at neighbors while reading a book in his driveway and listening to his collection of George Jones.  He finished his course with an ever-present strength and positive attitude.  Now he can rest in peace.  He has now come to the time for which he lived.  This is not the end, but the beginning.  Our comfort lies in the truth.  “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.” (Rev 14:13) A Celebration of Jack’s life will be at the clubhouse at Apache Wells II, 5830 E. McKellips Road, in Mesa on Sunday, November 16th, 2014 from 5-7pm.  A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10am, Monday, November 17^th at All Saints Catholic Church, 1534 North Recker Rd. in Mesa.  Interment will be held at Greenwood Memory Lawn Cemetery, 2300 W. Van Buren St. in Phoenix on Wednesday, November 19^th at 11am.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make donations to The Wounded Warrior Project.

Elizabeth Lee Dickens, 88, of Mesa, passed quietly early November 8^th, 2014 at home. She was born March 5^th, 1926 in Newport, Kentucky where she would eventually meet the love of her life, her devoted husband of 64 years, Charles. Elizabeth was a loving wife, mother, aunt and friend. She was preceded in death by her brothers Frank Doyle and Robert Doyle. Elizabeth was also preceded by a son, Michael Francis Dickens. She is survived by her husband Charles, son Charles (Patti) Dickens, daughter Mary (Matt) Bauer, son Robert (Kamela) Dickens, all of Arizona. Elizabeth is also survived by her loving cousin, Jeanne Geise, of Ohio, nephews Robert (Sandy) Doyle, Tom (Micki) Doyle and Jim (Ann) Doyle, all of Kentucky. Elizabeth leaves behind grandchildren, Jennifer (David) Massey, Charles K. Dickens, Miranda Jessup, and Tanner Jessup as well as several great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Elizabeth will be missed dearly, but she will be able to help light the way for those who follow.

Services for family and friends will be Friday November 14^th, 2014 at 1:00pm at The National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona 23029 N. Cave Creek Rd. Phoenix, AZ.

Rogers, James Charles Jr.

Born March 24, 1938, in Springfield, Illinois, resided in Mesa, Arizona, passed away peacefully on November 6, 2014, surrounded by his family.  He served 30 years in the United States Air Force and ten years in the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office.  His life was spent sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ and in service to his family and neighbors (which he considered all mankind to be).  He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings; two daughters, two granddaughters, a grandson and a great grandson.  He was a beloved father, grandfather and great grandfather who will be sorely missed by his children: Deanna (& Stephen) Anderson, Mary Rogers, Ruth (& Eric Schultz), James C. Rogers III, Dennis (& Leslie) Rogers, Rachel (& Mack) Fenn, John (& Dori) Rogers, and Will (& Jody) Rogers; his 39 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren.  Funeral Services will be held Thursday, November 13, 2014, at 10:00 AM with visitation one hour before beginning at 9:00 AM at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 1345 E. University Dr., Mesa, AZ  85213.

Joseph Walter Evans, 98, passed away November 6, 2014 in Mesa, Arizona. Visitation is Friday, November 14, 2014 from 6-8 PM at Bunker’s University Chapel, 3529 East University Drive, Mesa, Arizona. Funeral services are Saturday, November 15, 2014 at 10 AM, preceded by a visitation at 9 AM, at the LDS Lyn Rae Ward, 1266 South 32^nd Street, Mesa, Arizona. Interment at City of Mesa Cemetery. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel.

Patricia (Pattie) Pierson, 71, of Washington state and most recently of Arizona, passed away November 5, 2014 in Mesa, Arizona. Pattie led a happy, active life with friends and family. She was an avid reader, loved country music and enjoyed road trips. She is survived by her son, Craig Pierson, her daughter Staci Pierson, her son-in-law, Pieter van Hattem and her two younger brothers, Robert Connors and Bill Connors. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel.

Thomas Edward Wright Obituary

January 31, 1920 – November 4, 2014

Thomas E. Wright of Mesa, Arizona passed away peacefully on November 4, 2014 at age 94. Tom was born in St. David, Arizona on January 31, 1920, the sixth child of Lorenzo and Theresa Hope Goodman Wright. The family established a home in Mesa where Tom lived most of his life. He was preceded in death by his parents and all his siblings; Beatrice Judd, Harold, Margaret DeWitt, Bassett, Bill, Jack and LaVaughn; two grandsons Preston and Nathan Smith and his eternal sweetheart and wife Georga Marie Kleinman Wright. He is survived by his adoring posterity, children Thomas George Wright (Marilyn), Linda Wright Smith (Edward) and Gary Lorenzo Wright (Marlene); 19 grandchildren and their spouses; and 58 great-grandchildren.

To know Tom was to love him and to be loved. By profession he was a grocer in the family business, Wrights’ Markets. By practice he was a Latter-day Saint, serving a mission in the Northwestern States and in various callings. By nature he was a friend and servant to all. He served his country in the U.S. Air Force during WW II. He served his family, neighbors, friends and strangers. Although small in stature, Tom was a “Giant among men”, an honorable man without guile who will be greatly missed.

Visitation will be Friday, November 14 from 6-8 PM. Funeral services will be Saturday, November 15 at 10 AM with visitation an hour prior. Both will be held at the LDS Beverly Ward Building, 1054 W. 2^nd Place in Mesa.

Juan Tlapanco, 23, of Mesa, Arizona; passed away on November 4, 2014 in Mesa.  A visitation will be held from 3:00 – 6:00 PM, with Funeral Services at 6:00 PM, Saturday, November 8, 2014 at Bunker’s University Chapel, 3529 E. University Dr., Mesa, Arizona.

Joan Katharine Herrgesell, 79, passed away November 6, 2014 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Services to be held at a later date. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel.

Opal Pearl Knippen, 90, passed away Monday, November 3, 2014 in Mesa, Arizona. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, November 6, 2014 at 11:00 AM, preceded by a visitation at 10:00 AM, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Fairway Groves Ward, 5350 East McLellan Road, Mesa, Arizona. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel.

Willie Darrell Angle, 73, of Mesa AZ, passed away on November 1, 2014 peacefully in his home. Willie was born July 25, 1941 in Sikeston, Missouri to Joseph Nathan and Mable Ruth Cowgur, and was later adopted by Charles Albert Angle.  He is preceded in death by his first wife Geneva Berryhill Angle, eldest son Bruce Darrell Angle, and stepson Chuck Buckhannon.  Both his parents and siblings, Authur Cowgur, John Cowgur, J.D. Cowgur, Marilyn Cowgur, Flossie Cowgur, Freddie Cowgur, Lonnie Angle, Judy Ann Cowgur, Betty Angle Smith and Wendel Cowgur.

Willie and Geneva were sealed August 16, 1960 in the Mesa AZ LDS Temple. They had five children, Janiece (Kirk) Burgess, Bruce Angle, Morris (Rhonda) Angle, Rowland (Karen) Angle and Darlene (David) Bond.  Geneva passed away in 1994.  Willie and Barbara Buckhannon were sealed on October 6, 2000 in the Mesa AZ LDS Temple.

Willie was a friend to everyone and loved to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with friends and strangers. He was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and regularly served in different callings in the church.  He loved to help the missionaries.  Also, a highlight of his life was serving a mission at Cove Fort, Utah in 2002 with his wife Barbara.  Keeping up with loved ones and friends was a great joy in his life.

Willie enjoyed hunting and fishing with his kids and grandkids, and also loved a good practical joke. He will be missed by everyone who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara (Buckhannon) Angle, and children Janiece (Kirk) Burgess, Morris (Rhonda) Angle, Rowland (Karen) Angle, Darlene (David) Bond, stepson Mathew Buckhannon, 28 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and his sister, Bonnie Ferguson.

WE ALL LOVE YOU, WILLIE

Funeral services are Friday, November 7, 2014 at 10 AM, preceded by a visitation at 9 AM, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Alta Mesa Ward, 5620 E. Adobe Street, Mesa, Arizona. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel.

Malini O-Polinisia Maile, 71, passed away October 23, 2014 in Mesa, Arizona.

Visitation is Friday, November 7, 2014 from 7-10 PM at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Cooper Ward, 1415 E. Southern Avenue, Mesa, Arizona. Funeral services are Saturday, November 8, 2014 at 10 AM, with visitation from 8-10 AM, at the Mesa South Stake Center, 2334 E. Pueblo Avenue, Mesa, Arizona. Interment at the City of Mesa Cemetery. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel.

Garnet Trejo Standage, 89, passed away peacefully in her sleep Sunday morning, November 2, 2014. She was born March 2, 1925 in St. David, Arizona and lived in Mesa, Arizona for over 60 years. Her husband of 61 years, George Shelton Standage, preceded her in death in 2009.

Garnet is survived by her eight children, Kay Fuller, Don, Gregg, Susan Gunnell, Duane, Richard, Carla McMullin and Rodney. George and Garnet were blessed with 44 grand children and 78 great- grand children.

A viewing will be held on Friday, November 7^th from 6-8 PM at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 North Centennial Way, Mesa, Arizona. Funeral services are scheduled at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Lazona Building, 1345 East University Drive, Mesa, Arizona on Saturday, November 8^th, at 10 AM. A viewing for the family will be held at 9:30 AM Saturday morning.  Garnet will be buried next to her husband in the City of Mesa Cemetery.

Garnet lived an exemplary life as a mother and grandmother. She was a faithful and dedicated member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and her service in the Temple gave her great joy in her later years. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Bryant Keith Holmes, 34, of Gilbert, Arizona, passed away October 28, 2014. He is survived by his wife of 12 years, Stephanie Lou Goodman Holmes and daughters Ashlyn Rebekah (10), Evelyn LaRhue (1), and sons, Randon Bryant (8) and Dallin Gene (5) Holmes; his parents, Farrell Edward and Mary Catherine Jarman Holmes; his sister, Becky Martinez and brothers, Doug (Kristen),Tyler (Rachel), James (Erin) Holmes; his parents-in-law, Randy Lane and Debbie Kerby Goodman and many other family members and friends who love and adore him.

Bryant was born June 18, 1980 in Mesa, AZ.  He was the youngest of five children. He graduated from Mountain View HS in 1998. He served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to the Ecuador Guayaquil Mission, where he became fluent in Spanish. He went on to study Management and Criminal Justice. He married the love of his life, Stephanie, on September 27, 2002 in the LDS Mesa Arizona Temple. With his beautiful family, he enjoyed the mountains, hiking, biking, pillow fights and Daddy Daughter Dates. He worked his way up to his dream career as a Chandler Police Officer in 2009, a profession he had always respected and admired. As a patrol officer, Bryant was able to use his Spanish as one of the department’s certified translators, playing a key role in calming many situations and providing concise communication. In addition to receiving a number of citizen commendations over the course of his career, Bryant and Team 11 were honored as the 2011 Patrol Team of the Year. He was known for his enthusiasm, sense of humor, and love for life. Above all, Bryant’s true devotion was to God and his family.

Viewing will be Sunday, Nov 2, 2014 from 5-8pm at the LDS Boulder Creek Stake Center, 3025 S. Hawes, Mesa, AZ. Funeral services will be Monday, Nov 3, 2014 at 11am at the same location, with visitation at 10am. Interment will take place at the Valley of the Sun Cemetery, Chandler, AZ. Donations can be made at Arizona Bank & Trust in the name of Bryant Holmes. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel.

Nathaniel Edward Hollingshead, born June 3, 2014, passed away on October 4, 2014. A private service will be held for friends and family. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel.