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Larry Keith Macdonald passed away Sunday, August 25, 2024, in Mesa, Arizona surrounded by his loved ones.  Larry was born in El Paso, Texas on August 6, 1937, the son of Ernest Keith Macdonald and Ada Taylor Macdonald. He was the first of three children.

Larry and Joellen met in 1960 and got married on the 24^th of August.  Larry and Joellen built a beautiful life together.  On August 24, 2024, Larry and Joellen reached 64 years together.  Larry loved Joellen with his whole heart.  He encouraged her throughout their life together.

Larry was a man of honor and faith. He had the belief to teach his kids to stand strong and work hard.  He helped his kids to achieve their dreams and to dream big. Larry encouraged excellence in all those he came across.  Larry was an example of increasing love, faith, endurance, and intelligence.

Larry spent his youth in El Paso, Texas where his father worked for the Border Patrol Agency and Immigration Service and his mother was an elementary school teacher. He graduated from El Paso High School where he had been heavily involved in ROTC. Larry went to Brigham Young University in 1955.  Then he served a mission for two and a half years for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, in Uruguay, South America.  He loved his time as a missionary for the church. Ultimately, Larry earned a B.S. in Business Administration from Texas Western University.  He earned a master’s degree in Accountancy from Brigham Young University.  He went on to become a Certified Public Accountant in Utah and California. With a strong belief in obtaining and increasing knowledge and additional education, Larry obtained a Ph.D. in Business Administration from The University of Utah.  Larry went on to obtain other certifications over his career including completing a six-week business course at Harvard.

Larry’s post-education work career began in San Francisco, CA as a CPA for Touche-Ross-Baily and Smart. Larry went on to work at the University of Texas in El Paso as a professor, where he taught business and accounting. Larry went to work at the Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions as the Program Director of Health Costs Management, where he was also given an academic appointment as Assistant Professor of Health Care in the School of Public Health and the Johns Hopkins Hospital & Medical School. There he conducted research projects as well as taught in the schools.

Through Larry’s work and performance on his PhD dissertation which focused on computerized medical information and cost accounting, he was hired by one of the early evolving HMO companies in California, HMO International. Larry was appreciated by dental clinics throughout the LA area where he facilitated improvements to their business plans and overall success.

Larry and Joellen both agreed to venture out to New Orleans, Louisiana.  There Larry took a job to work as the Vice Chancellor of the Medical Center and VP of Finance and Human Resources at Tulane University School of Medicine and Tulane Hospital. There he pioneered a faculty practice plan, helped direct financing, and the building of the Tulane Hospital.  An interesting turn of events was that Larry’s second son attended the medical school where he had worked.

Larry was invited to move to Salt Lake City, Utah where he took a job working in the Operational Auditing Department for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. This may have been Larry’s favorite job experience.  This was a special time where Larry worked closely with many of the modern-day General Authorities and other church leaders.  During an audit for the church in Brazil, Larry met a colleague who asked him to come to work in Mesa, Arizona as the Vice President of Real-Estate Finance, and Investment.  Mesa is where Larry and Joellen settled in for the last 40 years together and where they decided to plant their roots. Larry and Joellen buried they youngest daughter Amy at age 26 in the Mesa Cemetery. She was survived by her newborn son, Zachary Denton Macdonald, who was Larry’s youngest grandson.

During Larry’s life he served in many callings for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  Serving gave Larry joy and great satisfaction.  Outside of his first mission, Larry and Joellen served a mission to the Mesa Family History Center, and they served in the Mesa Temple for years together. Larry served as a stake missionary in several locations. Larry was called as a bishop in New Orleans, Louisiana and Salt Lake City, Utah. He enjoyed teaching the gospel throughout his life and had a strong testimony of his Savior.

Larry loved and cherished his family.  He was happiest when surrounded by his wife, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and extended family. Larry’s favorite game was to ask his family, “Guess What?” and to hear them say, “I LOVE YOUUUUU!”

Funeral Services  for Larry K. Macdonald will be Saturday August 31, 2024 at the LDS Chapel, 2618 N. Lindsay Road Mesa, AZ 83213 at 11:00 am. Interment will be Saturday August 31, 2024, at City of Mesa Cemetery, 1212 N. Center Street Mesa, AZ 85201 at 1:30 pm.

For those unable to attend the funeral service will be live streamed.

Specific funeral link: https://www.youtube.com/live/jEO5rTwXI_E?si=CW__FH6NpFy4OH23

Mesa AZ Hermosa Vista Stake YouTube channel link:

https://youtube.com/@mesaazhermosavistastake3575?si=HN3tetS8X8pMCP6V

All are welcome.

FAMILY:

Larry is survived by his wife Joellen Kay Senne Macdonald; sons Eric Keith Macdonald (Liz),  Richard Kevin Macdonald (Kerri): daughters Laurie Jo Macdonald Smithson (Richard), Lisa Macdonald Holt, and Karyn Macdonald Parry (Sean); grandchildren Trenton James Smithson (Kenzie), Kelsi  Smith (Galin), Jolie Smithson (Cade), Katie Macdonald (Rick), Matthew Macdonald, Andrew Macdonald, Rachel Macdonald, Zachary Macdonald, Haley Johnson (Tysen), Payton Macdonald, Ryley Macdonald, Wyatt Macdonald, Taylor Holt (Ezra)  Morgan Constandse (Colin), Lexie Holt (Nathan), Holly Holt, Mackynzie Parry (Leo), and Kayla Snow (Chandler); great-grandchildren Teagan Smith, Ilianna Smithson, Indie-Rose Stewart, Brooks Millet, Shiloh Johnson, Colby Johnson, Everett Holt, Darcy Constandse, Bode Durkin, Lev Durkin and Hudson Snow.

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.

Our wonderful mother, Lois Adele Loveland, passed on to her heavenly home on August 24, 2024 at the age of 88.

Lois was born in Rupert, Idaho to Clyde and Fern Crandall.  She was the 6^th of 11 children and had a happy childhood.  She excelled in school and was very active in extracurricular activities.  She especially enjoyed debate and writing for the school newspaper.

After high school Lois briefly attended BYU before marrying her sweetheart Duane Garner Loveland.  They were married in the Salt Lake City Temple on December 18, 1953.

From her childhood, Lois looked forward and planned on being a mother.  Her goal was to have a dozen children and she got pretty close.  Lois considered motherhood to be a special calling and she dedicated her life to her family.  She was a talented seamstress and made many of her children’s clothes, and then later, beautiful prom dresses. She also made whole wheat bread weekly and even when it wasn’t bake day strangers would comment on how good the house smelled.  She tried to teach her children to serve others by preparing an extra plate of Sunday dinner and having the kids run it down to an elderly neighbor. Mom had to stretch the budget and to do so she loved to go to yard sales and thrift stores.  Learning was important to Lois. She attended BYU education week with the family and then encouraged everyone to share what they had learned in their various classes.  She was always willing to help her children with school assignments.  She also took the opportunity to learn by taking occasional classes (like Mandarin) or attending local lectures on various subjects.  Our mother also loved music and attending ward choir practice was a standard Sunday activity.  She also made sure to offer music lessons to her children- whether it was piano, voice or violin.

As a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Lois strived to be a true follower of Jesus Christ.  She served others frequently- taking in meals, giving rides to doctor’s appointments, etc.  She could often be found in her room kneeling in prayer.  She loved to attend the temple.  She served in many callings in the church and worked to be an influence for good whether it was serving in the nursery or as the Relief Society President.  Mom and Dad served missions together to England, Greece and they began an additional mission to Hawaii (but returned home due to health reasons).

In her later years, Lois loved being a grandmother.  She enjoyed having family visit and she kept a huge bag of popcorn and a freezer well stocked with ice cream to share.  Lois was the mother of nine, the grandmother of 40 and a great grandmother as well.

Lois was preceded in death by her husband Duane and her son Verlynn; as well as her parents and seven siblings.  Lois is survived by her children: Kathy Stapley (Gary), DeeAnn Loveland, Garn Loveland (AuraLee), Jana Noall (Mark), Kristi Garner (Richard), Craig Loveland (Lara), Letia Derderian (Dan) and Jennifer Carpenter (Brian).  Three siblings also survive her:  Sharon Naumanuka (Tua, deceased), Alice Cazier (Marvin), and Buzz Crandall (Janice).

The Loveland family sends a special thank you to the caring and kind caretakers at Emerald Glen Memory Care and those at Hospice of the Valley.

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.

Dana M. Johnson of Mesa, AZ., died peacefully at home where she had been under the care of her loving husband Mark and Hospice of the Valley.

Born Nov. 20^th 1958 in Wichita, Kansas, daughter of Vernon Morton and Marie (Tribe-Batjer) Morton.  She graduated from Pittsford Sutherland High School in 1976.

In January of 1979 she said goodbye to the snow and moved to Tempe, AZ., working for Silk Screen Studio.  In 1980 she moved to Tucson, AZ., where she started Catalina Silk Screen as the owner.  She sold the business in 1989 and began working in sales.

Her love for animals brought her to the pet food and pet nutrition industry where she was employed until her retirement from Pet Planet following several years helping dogs and owners reach their full potential.

In April of 2023 Dana was diagnosed with leukemia. During her times in the hospital and weekly labs she developed lasting relationships with the entire hospital staff. Dana would want everyone to know that your efforts made the difficult times manageable. Thank you for everything.

Dana married Mark G. Johnson on June 30^th 2007, in Niagara Falls. The couple have lived their entire married life at their home in Mesa, AZ.

Surviving; husband Mark and his sons in Redondo Beach CA. and Scottsdale AZ. Mark’s sons and daughter in-laws have (5) children. Mark’s extended family in Nebraska include several nieces and nephews. Dana has two sisters: Pamela (David) Kellogg – NY, and Kari Morton – FL.  Dana was also Godmother to Lauren M. Thompson – NY.

Dana enjoyed life; dinners and parties with friends, outdoor activities like golfing, fishing and boating on the Relaxer. Traveling.  Their last trip was to Hawaii in January of 2023 with friends. Speaking of friends, Dana was always up for get together or Happy Hour.

Finally, Family – she cherished the visits from the 5 step grandchildren, pool parties, Christmas and Thanksgiving get togethers were events she looked forward to for months and don’t forget the annual pumpkin carving contest.

Donations in Dana’s Memory may be made to Hospice of the Valley at Donate (hov.org) or Rescue Dog – One Love at Donate (oneloveaz.org)

Please join the family for a Celebration of Dana’s life at Pizzicata Mesa at the Painted Mountain Golf Course (6210 E. McKellips Road, Mesa, AZ) on Saturday, September 28, 2024 at 5:00 p.m.

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.

Andrew Taylor Beck of Tega Cay, South Carolina, a beloved husband, father, son, brother, friend, and coworker unexpectedly died in his sleep while on a business trip to Chicago August 15, 2024.  He was 41.

Andrew was born March 20, 1983 to his parents Wendell and Julie, and an older brother John. The early years of his life were spent in Provo, Utah while his father was a student at BYU.  After his father’s graduation the family moved to Mesa, Arizona, where a younger sister, Anna joined the family.

Andrew attended Franklin and Val Vista Lakes Elementary Schools, Greenfield and Poston Junior High Schools, and Mountain View High School where he graduated in May 2002.

While attending Mountain View High School Andrew excelled as a member of both the baseball and football teams. A crowning achievement of his teenage years was earning and receiving his Eagle Scout Award.

Upon graduating high school Andrew served a two year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints in the Dominican Republic Santo Domingo East Mission.

Following his Church mission, he continued his football career at BYU and then Utah State. He finished his football career playing Arena Football for the Utah Saints. Andrew graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in Sociology in April 2010.

Andrew married Dallas McCormick and together they brought two wonderful children into this world, Troy Kayon, and Kendal Aaliyah.

Andrew, Dallas, and their children loved to go to Folly Beach in South Carolina to spend the day together. Whether a nice short evening at their local Carowinds or a family vacation to Universal Studios Florida, Disney World or Disneyland, Andrew and his family found joy spending time together at amusement parks. They also enjoyed simple things like making popcorn and watching a movie together.

At the time of his death Andrew was the CEO for Aruza Pest Control.

Left to cherish the memory and honor the legacy of Andrew are his wife Dallas McCormick, his son Troy Kayon, and his daughter Kendal Aaliyah, his parents Wendell and Julie, his brother John (Barbara) Beck,  his sister Anna (Markell) Staffieri, in laws John and Lori McCormick, a brother in law Austin (Maegan) McCormick, two nieces, nine nephews, and his two dogs Duke and Ruby.

Andrew had a gentle heart, and he was kind, especially to those in need.  Andrew loved his family. They were the most important thing in the world to him.  He was taken way too young and he will be greatly missed by all those who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday August 31st at 1 PM. The public viewing will be at 12, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints on 2549 N 32nd St Mesa, AZ 85213.

The Zoom link for the Celebration of Life : Launch Meeting – Zoom

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.

Lorden LaVar Jones was the third son of Virgil and Nellie Jones. He was born September 20, 1946, in Safford, AZ. He was raised in the small rural village of Virden, New Mexico and attended Virden grade school where he was active in sports, 4-H, Boy Scouts and worked on his father’s farm. He attended Duncan (AZ) High School and was involved in sports, band and FFA. After graduation he served in the Northern Indian Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and grew to love and respect the Native Americans of Montana and the Dakotas.

After his mission, Lorden moved to Mesa, AZ and worked in the masonry industry. While there he was introduced to the love of his life, Ann Nielsen, and after a sweet courtship they were married and sealed for the eternities in the Mesa Arizona Temple. They had one child, Virnell Deborah Jones now residing with loving caregivers, Jim and Kathy Imes in Mesa.

The family moved to Virden, NM to work with his father on the family farm. Lorden loved the farm and worked there for several years until it became apparent that Virnell’s special needs could not be met in that rural area, so they returned to Mesa where there were more opportunities for her. Lorden worked for the Nielsen family in the lumber yard and truss plant before joining the Walmart organization in customer service. He was always a hard worker and worked a second part-time job at Fry’s Supermarket to make ends meet.

Lorden loved his Savior Jesus Christ and was very active in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints. He loved the time he spent serving in the Mesa Arizona temple.

In February of 2013, his sweetheart Ann passed from this life to the spirit world. What a loss for him! He adored her and missed her terribly. Eventually he started attending and greatly enjoying activities for single adults and was so happy when he could provide transportation to these activities for others that did not have a car.

As his health deteriorated and he realized it was unwise to live at home alone, in 2021 he moved to an assisted living facility. On August 19, 2024 he was called home to reunite with his beloved wife Ann, his parents and his older brother Gary.

Lorden is survived by his daughter Virnell and his Brother Spencer Jones.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, August 27, 2024 at 11:00 am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 920 South Lindsay Rd, Mesa, AZ.

A viewing will be held prior to the funeral from 10:00 AM.

On Wednesday, August 28, 2024, the graveside service will be at Virden, NM Cemetery at 12 noon. A luncheon will follow.

McDougal-Caldwell Funeral Home of Safford will handle the arrangements at the cemetery.

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.

The family of Linda Ann Reynolds is deeply saddened to share that she passed away on Thursday, August 15, 2024.

Linda was known for her kindness, uplifting spirit, and bright smile, which touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her. She devoted her life to raising her family and nurturing children in the classroom, leaving a void that will be deeply felt.

Linda found happiness in reading, walking, baking and creating cherished moments with her children and grandchildren.

Linda’s family asks that she be remembered for the joy she brought to those around her.

She leaves behind her loving husband of 32 years, Melvin George Reynolds; her children, Julie (Justin) Lane, Kristen (Mark) Formanek, and Justin Reynolds; her adored grandchildren, Joshua Lane, Justin Lane, James Griffin, and Jacob Lane; along with her sister Lois (Ken) Tornquist, her niece Jeni Voris, and nephews Ryan Tornquist and Wesley Tornquist. She was preceded in death, by her mother Genevieve Stamm, her father James Henry Stamm and her brother James Richard Stamm.

A memorial service will be held at Bunker Family University Chapel, located at 3529 East University Drive, Mesa, AZ 85213.

Anyone with fond memories, stories, or keepsakes are invited to attend and share.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Linda’s memory can be made to the Humane Society here.

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.

Fanchon Leppla Bartow Iglehart, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 10th, 2024, at the age of 95. Born on January 13th, 1929, in Phoenix, Arizona, Fanchon lived a full and vibrant life, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and resilience.

Fanchon was the cherished daughter of H. Lorain Leppla and Ruth Roby Leppla, who raised her alongside her brother, Henry Leppla. She graduated from North High School, where she was known for her bright spirit and determination. Fanchon continued her education at the University of Arizona, where she joined the Pi Beta Phi sorority. It was during her college years that she met her first husband, Don Bartow. The couple married in 1948 and together they built a family, welcoming five children into their lives. Tragically, Don passed away in 1962, leaving Fanchon to navigate life as a young widow.

In 1963, Fanchon found love again and married Louis Iglehart. Together, they had one child, further enriching their family. Fanchon’s life was centered around her children and loved ones, and she was a guiding light for all who knew her. An accomplished life master bridge player, she had a deep passion for the game, as well as a love for chocolates and Dairy Queen ice cream.

Fanchon was preceded in death by her parents, H. Lorain Leppla and Ruth Roby Leppla, her brother, Henry Leppla, and her step-sister, Millie Thomas.

Fanchon is survived by her six children: Cece (Jeff) Derickson, Marce (Bob) McKay, Donald (Judy) Bartow, Cathy Bartow, Jeannie (Peter) Hartman, and Bob (Jen) Iglehart. She was a proud grandmother to Debbie Derickson Dalesandro (Adam), Dana Derickson Strunk (Adam), Darcy Derickson Ortiz (Anthony), Dr. Trent McKay (Mandi), Tracy McKay Duray, Andrew Bartow (Amy), Eric Urbina, Christopher Urbina (Patty), Alyssa Ahern (Ashley), Haley Hartman, Nicole Johnson (Zac), Kyle Iglehart, and Dylan Iglehart. Fanchon was also a devoted great-grandmother to Lincoln Dalesandro, Kason Dalesandro, Greta Strunk, Wyatt Strunk, August Strunk, Hazel Strunk, Easton Ortiz, Jensen Ortiz, Hunter McKay, Colter McKay, Henry Bartow, Eleanor Bartow, Isabel Urbina, Jamison Ahern, and Preston Ahern.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the wonderful employees of Friendship Village, where Fanchon spent the last 18 years of her life. Their care and compassion made a lasting difference in her life.

Fanchon’s presence in our lives was a gift, and she will be remembered with deep affection and admiration. May she rest in peace.

Private services will be held.

Moneta Leavitt Muse Hill Allen, 96, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2024 in Mesa, Arizona. She was born in Mesa, Arizona; September 29, 1927.

She was the third child of Joseph C. and Blanch (Allen) Leavitt with her siblings: J Allen, Bert, Floyd, Johnny, JoeAnn, Barbara (Bobbie), Fawn and Fern.

Moneta grew up in Mesa and graduated from Mesa High School. She married HH Muse on November 29, 1946. Together they had two sons, Stephen and Dwight. Moneta later married her eternal companion, Willard (Bill) Joseph Hill, June 22, 1968 in the Mesa, Arizona, Temple. Bill had three children: Christopher, Colette and Jon. Bill died on April 9, 1979. She was then later married to James Allen who died on April 8, 1994.

Moneta and Bill established their life together in Canoga Park, California. Bill lovingly called her his Sweet Moneta. She took Bill’s children under her wing and continued to raise them as a loving mother would love her own children. Later Moneta and Bill retired and moved to Nephi, Utah. Together they served in the Manti Temple.

Moneta always had a strong testimony of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day-Saints. She had many callings in the church and served lovingly and willingly.

She served as a diligent senior missionary in Kansas and Missouri. Out of many callings, she was also called as the Stake Relief Society President in Nephi, Utah. Anyone that was blessed to meet her would say that she was the sweetest and kindest person that they have ever met,

Moneta was a loving daughter, sister, aunt, mother, and grandmother to all. She is preceded in death by her husbands: Bill and Jim; sons Stephen and Christopher; Brothers:  Allen, Bert, Floyd, and John; Sisters: Bobbie, Fawn and Fern; parents: Joe and Blanche Leavitt.

She is survived by her children: Dwight (Theresa), Colette (Bill) and Jon (Ilene). She is survived by many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Dr. Earl P. Duffy Jr. (Duff), a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle passed away peacefully on August 14, 2024 at the age of 70.

He was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois to Earl Senior and Lucille Duffy.  After Duff graduated Dental School from Northwestern University he moved to Mesa, Arizona in 1980 to begin his dental practice. This is where he would meet and marry the love of his life. They went on to raise a beautiful family.

He loved to go fishing with his sons, woodworking, fix anything that was broken, and spend time in Flagstaff, Arizona.

Duff was a shining example of kindness and generosity.  His infectious enthusiasm, humor, and ability to light up a room made him the life of any gathering.  Duff’s impact on the world was immeasurable. His passion for his loved ones and his profession was evident in everything he did. He was a constant source of positivity, inspiration, and support to those around him. His laughter was contagious, and his genuine kindness knew no bounds.

Duff is survived by his loving wife Debbie of 42 years, three sons Ian, Kyle, and Shaun, three daughters-in-law Brooke, Rachel, and Alicia and his five granddaughters Rylee, Reagan, Reese, Clara, and Layla.

Duff will be deeply missed by all who knew him.  His legacy of kindness, humor, and generosity will live on in the hearts of many.

A celebration of Duff’s life will be held on Saturday, September 14th at 10 am at Central Christian Church 933 N. Lindsay Road, Mesa AZ 85213.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Duff’s name at: http://act.alz.org/goto/earl_duff_duffy

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.

Mark Lewis Drayton, 57, of Gilbert, AZ, passed away at home on April 28, 2024, surrounded by loved ones.  He fought a two year battle with cancer.  He had a wonderful attitude, and he never gave up.

Mark was born Mark Lewis Davidson on November 17, 1966, in Royal Oak, Michigan, to Karla Mae Davidson and Milton Reid Lewis.  He grew up in Michigan, and his mother married Lynn Ray Drayton in 1973.  Lynn adopted Mark, which changed his name to Mark Lewis Drayton.  Mark was proud to be part of the Drayton family.  They spent two years in Tokyo, Japan, during the mid-seventies, and Mark loved every minute of it.  That was the start of his love for travel and adventure.

As Mark grew older, he wanted to meet his birth father.  They met for the first time in 1985.  Mark now had two loving fathers, and he maintained relationships with both throughout his life.

After graduation from high school Mark attended Arizona State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance.  Mark later earned a CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) certification from the CFA Institute.  He spent his working years as a financial analyst for several different companies, including Merrill Lynch, Jack White, Charles Schwab, and Financial Engines.  Except for brief periods working in Farmington Hills, MI, and San Diego, CA, Mark’s career was centered in the Phoenix area.

Mark married Janet Lynn Schumacher in 1995.  In 1999 their beautiful twin daughters, Juliette Ann and Jianna Lynn, were born.  Mark enjoyed spending time with his family.  Janet passed away in 2007.  Mark was now a widowed father, and he raised his daughters on his own.

Mark loved to travel.  He went around the country and around the world.  If someone said, “Let’s meet in Paris for lunch,” he would reply, “How about tomorrow?”  He could go on a moment’s notice.  In 2018 he returned to Japan and visited all the places he remembered as a child and then saw it again through adult eyes.  He had a great sense of adventure and exploration.  He was a certified scuba diver.  He had a private pilot license and flew small planes.  He participated in skydiving.  He enjoyed water skiing and snow skiing.  He loved music and parties.  He partied as hard in his 50’s as he did in college.  He enjoyed watching documentaries.  He had a questioning mind and a love for life.

Mark is survived by his daughters, Juliette and Jianna; his parents Karla, Lynn and Milton; siblings Dawn Bailey, Mark Allan Drayton, and Michelle Chiachiere.  He is predeceased by his wife Janet, and brothers Alec Drayton and Eric Lewis.

A celebration of life will be held in the Phoenix area on November 16^th, 2024.

Helen Tanner Beaton waited until just after her 93rd birthday before passing on.  She was born Aug 12, 1931 and died Aug 16, 2024.  She died peacefully in her home in Phoenix AZ in the small hours of the morning with her two daughters present, Joan, who was living with her mother, and Mary Anne, who had come from Talent Oregon.  Helen is survived by her children, Joan R. Beaton, N. Eldon Tanner of Washington UT, Mary Anne and Dean Cropper of Talent OR, Richard and Sharon Williams of Phoenix AZ, and her step-son Derrick Beaton.

Helen joined her beloved husband, John (Jack) Beaton who preceded her in death in 2000.  Her dear parents, N.Eldon Tanner and Sara Isabelle Tanner, and her sisters, Ruth Doxey, Isabelle Jensen, Zola Rhodes, and Beth Spackman, have also been waiting for her on the other side of the veil, just like they had waited for the birth of their baby Helen.

Mom was born at the beginning of the Great Depression in the small, rural town of Cardston, Alberta Canada. Her family moved to Edmonton when she was 5 and she attended school there.  She married Lowell Leavitt Williams at 19, and they raised their four children in Calgary, with short stints in Montreal Quebec, Hope, B.C. and Ottawa Ontario. Lowell and Helen were divorced in 1971.

Helen purchased a high-end ladies’ clothing store, La Boutique, in Calgary and began her career as a fashionista and business woman, with no training, experience, or education in the field.  Helen married Jack Beaton shortly thereafter.  Jack and Helen lived in Calgary for a short time and then moved with Mary Anne and Richard to Phoenix AZ.  They purchased a small clothing shop in a resort in Scottsdale, named it Beaton’s, and Helen began the adventure that occupied much of the next three decades. They opened shops in Phoenix, Tucson, and La Jolla. Later Joan and Eldon moved from Canada and began their families in Phoenix.  Mary Anne and Richard also started their married lives near Helen and Jack who thrived on having family at the center of their lives.  When they retired, they moved to Ashland OR where they had bought property, and then once again, successfully lobbied much of their family to relocate, this time to the Rogue Valley.

During their time in Phoenix, Jack joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and the two of them devoted much of their time, talents and treasure to serving and becoming disciples of Christ.  They served in numerous Ward and Stake callings in Scottsdale, Medford, GrantsPass, and Central Point Stakes.  They served a full-time mission together in Manchester England for 18 months from 1993-1994. They traveled together and with family all over the world.

There has never been a time when Helen has not put her family first.  We have been in the forefront of her mind, heart and actions even when she was traveling for work or pleasure, even when she was working or meeting with one of the educational or corporate boards she sat on.  Family always came first, and Helen and Jack were lavish with their love, affection, time and resources.

Helen is also survived by 20 grandchildren, 16 spouses of grandchildren, 52 great grandchildren, and 2 great great grandchildren. With her children and their spouses, that’s 96 people who call her Mom, Grandma, or GiGi.  Of those who call her Aunt Helen, or mentor, boss, counselor, president, sister in the gospel, soul sister, mentoring sister, fashion coordinator, matriarch, traveling buddy, model of all things elegant, shiner of light, teacher, counselor, friend, rescuer, influencer, lifter, the number of souls is beyond countable.

A Memorial Service for Helen’s family and friends will be held on the Saturday of Thanksgiving weekend.  November 30th at 10:00 AM in the Arcadia Ward chapel. 4225 N.56th St.  Phoenix 85018

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.

Lois “Darlene” Kurian passed away peacefully on August 6, 2024, at the age of 80, in Apache Junction, Arizona. Darlene was born on January 20, 1944, in Ishpeming, Michigan.

In 1962, she married the love of her life, Paul G. Kurian, becoming a devoted wife & mother.

Darlene, a homemaker, was proud of her Italian heritage and her love language was food.  Memories were made around her kitchen table with family coming together to enjoy homemade spaghetti sauce, pasties, chocolate cherry bars, and holiday pies that she made from scratch.  An avid tennis fan, Darlene would get up in the middle of the night to watch the tennis matches of Wimbledon & the U.S. Open. Her enthusiasm for the game, as well as her love for Elvis Presley, was matched only by the love she had for her family and friends.

Darlene was preceded in death by her loving husband, Paul G. Kurian; her mother, Dorothy Gelmi; her father, Emelio Gelmi; and her sister, Geraldine M. Thomson. She is lovingly remembered by her children, Robin Burton, Pamela (Craig) Browning, and Shawn (Kim) Kurian; her siblings, Sherry Salmon and Florian “Butch” Gelmi; and by her five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life.

A Memorial Mass will be held at St. George’s Catholic Church, 300 E 16th Ave, Apache Junction, AZ 85119 at 10:00 am Wednesday, August 28, 2024, with Rosary at 9:30 am.  Darlene will be laid to rest beside her husband, Paul, in the Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery, Mesa, AZ.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Online Donations – St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org)

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.

Delores Geraldine “Jerry” Henderson, of Apache Junction, Arizona, passed away on August 11, 2024. She was 101 years old. She is survived by her son William Henderson, Jr., of Lompoc, California, her daughter Deborah Henderson and son-in-law, Donald Fassinger of Tempe, Arizona, and nieces Amy Sutherland of Manassus, Virginia, Alma Magnussen, Christine Elmore, and Karen Magnussen of Jacksonville, FL. There will be a private service on Monday, August 19, at Bunker Family Funeral Home in Mesa, AZ, after which she will be transported to Baltimore, Maryland to be laid to rest next to her late husband of 54 years, William Henderson, Sr. at Holly Hill Cemetery in Middle River, MD. In early October, the family will hold a memorial gathering in Tempe, AZ, to celebrate Jerry’s long life and give those who knew her the chance to remember the impression she made in their lives.

Jerry was born in Bluefield, West Virginia on June 14, 1923 (what would one day become Flag Day) to Blanche and Thomas Carlyle Sutherland. She is predeceased by her parents and her two brothers, Thomas Carlyle (TC) Sutherland, Jr., and Harry Sutherland.

Jerry attended Beaver High School in Bluefield, and dated William Henderson until he joined the army in 1939. Jerry traveled to Baltimore during the war to work as a “Rosie the Riveter” at the Eastern Aircraft Plant building airplanes for the military. When the war ended, she married “Bill” Henderson (an amateur boxer known as “One Punch Henderson”) on June 5, 1947, after he served in the Hawaiian Islands during the bombing of Pearl Harbor.

Jerry and Bill moved to Maryland where Bill worked for 50 years as a union bricklayer and Jerry began creating their home. They settled in Dundalk, MD, where they raised their two children, and lived happily together for 54 years until Bill’s passing in 2000. Both avid bowlers, they bowled in several leagues over the next few decades and spent many happy summer days at various area beaches (Inverness beach, Bay Shore, and Ocean City, MD), and happy nights out dancing.

Jerry was always surprised that she lived such a long life given a very shaky start. When she was 18 months old, during a particularly bad case of pleurisy pneumonia, her family doctor, Dr. Vass, performed what was then considered a risky and ground-breaking surgery called an empyema. The surgeon removed part of a rib and placed a drain in her left lung. Jerry was always amazed that she survived, in part, as she liked to tell it, because the doctor, snapped his fingers, and told her parents he “didn’t expect her to live longer than that!” Over the next hundred years later, she thumbed her nose at his prediction.

In 1999, thanks to her son, William, Jerry had the opportunity to accompany her husband to Hawaii and visit all the places Bill told her about during his time in the army. Their trip to Hawaii with William was one of the highlights of their later years.

Three years after her husband passed, Jerry moved to Apache Junction, Arizona, so she could be closer to her daughter. She set up camp in the Dolce Vita Retirement Community and joined several of their organizations. For many years she was a member of the Solos Club and the Red Hat Society, and participated in ceramics classes, trips to local casinos and dinner theater evenings. She enjoyed shooting pool with her family, swimming in the community pool and basking in the Arizona sun. She was always the fiery little red head, often driven by the “fear of missing out.” She was funny and fun-loving, a surprisingly adventurous eater (for a Southern girl), and always ready to participate in whatever social events cropped up. The hardest part of aging for her was outliving most of her friends and family and losing the ability to stay in her house. She was able to maintain her independence in Dolca Vita for 16 years, in large part, thanks to the kindness and generosity of her dear neighbors who helped her, increasingly, as her memory and her mobility began to fail. In March of 2020, at the age of 97, just as Covid shut down the world, she moved to Tempe to live with her daughter and son-in-law.

She entered Hospice at Home care in 2022 and met some of the nicest people who helped her and her family create a safe and loving space for her to finish her journey.

On Sunday, August 11, 2024, Jerry passed peacefully in her sleep. Even though everyone knew her passing was imminent, a world without her sweet spirit and beautiful smile is a little lonelier and emptier place than it had been for the past 101 years.

James Harry Gerard, 92, of Mesa, Arizona died August 10, 2024.  Jim was born October 6, 1931 in Roberts, Idaho the son of Harry Clay “Jack” and Doris Abbott Gerard.  He attended elementary school in Terreton and graduated from Roberts High School.

He married Cecil Gasser of Driggs, Idaho in Terreton, Idaho on September 3, 1952.  Their marriage was later solemnized in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple in November of 1963.

Jim met Cecil while attending the University of Idaho, where he earned a Bachelors Degree in Agricultural Education.  He and Cecil graduated together, with their first child, James Clyde.  Their first daughter, Susan Lois, was born while Jim was gone to Korea – serving in the army.

He owned and managed Terreton Implement Co. and enjoyed the association of many farmers and friends, providing parts, repairs, and sales of John Deere equipment.  Cecil worked with him as the bookkeeper.   He had a small airplane, “the Champ” he enjoyed using for field service calls or just fun for his children and friends.  He later sold the John Deere dealership and managed the Terreton branch of Snake River Equipment Co. – the International dealership.

He was involved in numerous church and community activities including Mud Lake Fair and Rodeo, Lion’s Club, and helping organize and coach grid-kid football.

In 1994, Jim and Cecil moved to Basalt, Idaho where they made friends with many great people.  As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Jim served in numerous callings.   He and Cecil served a Mission at the Idaho Falls Temple Visitors Center.

Jim enjoyed gardening and shared his abundance with neighbors and friends.  While living in Basalt, he continued to be involved in many community and school activities.

He and Cecil traveled to visit and support their grandchildren in most of their activities.

He is survived by a daughter, Sheila (Jeff) Kibler of Salt Lake, three sons, Jack Noel (Claudette) Gerard of Holladay, Utah, Jeffery Golden (Suzanne) Gerard of Murtaugh, Idaho, Jerald Sampson (Melanie) Gerard of Mesa, Arizona, 29 grandchildren, and 47 great-grandchildren.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Cecil, 4 sisters and one brother, 2 children – James Clyde and Lois Susan, and 5 grandchildren – J.W., Markie, Jonathan, Jeremy, and Joyle.

Jim’s family expresses gratitude to the kind and gentle care given him by the folks and staff of Summit Care at Sunland Springs in Mesa.

The family will meet with friends at Eckersell Memorial Chapel (101 W. Main, Rigby, Idaho) on Friday, August 16, 2024 from 6:00 to 8:00pm .    A graveside service will be held at Fielding Memorial Park Cemetery in Idaho Falls on Saturday, August 17, beginning at 10am.

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.

Deborah Ann Wagner was born April 22, 1955, in San Carlos, California and passed away in Arizona on August 9, 2024, at the age of 69 after a long hard-fought battle with breast cancer. Debbie is survived by her husband Andrew (Chris) Wagner, her 8 children and her 26 grandchildren. She converted to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints as a teenager. She had a great love of the gospel and of the scriptures. Her testimony grew each day until her death. She had a long career with Banner hospitals as a dietary technician, where she was nominated several times for being a Heart Guardian. While Debbie had many hobbies and interests, her greatest love was the gospel of Jesus Christ and her family. She was an extraordinary wife, mother, and grandmother and will be truly missed. We know she is in Heaven frolicking on the beach.

The Memorial service will be held on Thursday August 15, 2024 from 5:00-7:00 pm at Preston Ward Building (6655 E. Preston St., Mesa, AZ 85215). In lieu of flowers, please donate using the venmo below: @Diana-Sokol-1  for funeral and medical expenses.

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.

Elaine Bailey Knox passed away peacefully on July 28, 2024, surrounded by her family.

Born on October 22, 1932, to Gail and Reva Bailey, Elaine lived a full and active life. She was preceded in death by her brother, McKay Bailey, and is survived by her siblings Sandra Porter, Terrill Bailey, and Gloria Winkel.

Elaine was the beloved mother of Christina Poovey and Margo Gibson. Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart—Dylan Wood, Sierra Wood, Anthony Gibson, Brady Poovey, and Emory Poovey—and her great-granddaughter, Amber Elaine Wood.

A graduate of LDS Business College, Elaine turned her passion for sewing into a successful career in fashion design. She founded and ran two clothing lines, Captive Fashions and Pitchfork, selling her designs worldwide. Her motto, “dress for success,” guided her both personally and professionally.

Elaine had a wide range of interests. She played the accordion and piano, was a member of a bowling league, and held the title of Rodeo Queen. She enjoyed riding horses with her father, camping with her family, and also learned to surf, earned her lifeguard certificate, and took hula classes while living in Hawaii. In her later years, her adventures continued, spending summers in Alaska, where she fished, gardened, and entertained guests.

Elaine was known for her joy for life and deep love of family, friends, and the outdoors. She will be deeply missed.

A funeral service will be held on August 17, 2024, at 11 am at 4640 E. Holmes Avenue, Mesa, Arizona 85206.

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.