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Larae Cunningham Lewis, 85, passed away peacefully on the morning of June 9, 2024, in Gilbert, Arizona. She was the eldest child of Lee Cunningham and Effie Fugal. Larae was born in Idaho Falls, Idaho, on August 21, 1938. In her early years, she enjoyed tap dancing and baton twirling, and she represented Rigby High School during her senior year at the Eastern Idaho State Fair, where she won first place. In 1955, Larae and her family moved to Mesa, Arizona. It was there that she met and married Clyde Lewis. They had four children. Larae loved being a wife and mother, and she took pride in raising her children and teaching them loving principles. She had a tremendous love for her family and cherished every moment spent with them. Larae enjoyed sharing her family history with others. She celebrated 65 years of marriage until Clyde passed away in 2021. Larae was a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lee and Effie, her husband Clyde, her brothers, Mont and Kevin, and her son Bryan. She is survived by her sisters Annette, Carol, and Lesa, her children Gary, Kyle, and Lonna, as well as her eight grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 21, 2024, at the Mountain Vista Ward building, located at 10305 E. Southern Ave., Mesa, AZ 85209. The services will begin at 10:00 AM, preceded by a viewing at 9:00 AM. Following the services, a gravesite dedication will take place at the Mesa Cemetery at 11:30 AM. Flowers may be sent to Bunkers Mortuary, located at 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ 85201. For further assistance, you may contact them at phone number 480-964-8686

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.

Rossland is survived by her spouse Stanley and three children; Jessica, Nathaniel and Brian. She died peacefully 09 Jun 2024, Sunday evening at 11:52pm, after battling cancer since 1998. She was faithful until the end, looking after the sisters in the Tempe Ward. She was a wonderful wife, mother, daughter, grandmother and friend. She was active in her callings and served her community. She was strong and fought through many trials. Despite her major health issues, she remained positive. She was devoted to her faith and loved Heavenly Father. She kept her covenants and strived to follow Jesus Christ to the end of her life.

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

Finnley Oak Starr Udall was born on November 11th, 2011 in Provo, Utah and passed from this life on June 8th, 2024 in Provo, Utah.

Finnley was a young man full of love for his family and his puppy.

He had an imagination that created fun worlds with his toys, like his beloved Legos.

Being out in nature and exploring was something else he enjoyed, whether in Arizona or Utah or anywhere in between.

Please join his family in honoring Finnley at the visitation and memorial service:

Visitation: Friday, June 21st, 2024 at 6:00-8:00 PM  at 1150 W. Combs Road, Queen Creek, AZ 85140

Memorial Service: June 22nd, 2024 at 11:00 AM at 1150 W. Combs Road, Queen Creek, AZ 85140 (there will be a viewing one hour prior at 10:00 AM )

Burial: June 22nd, 2024 at 1:00 PM at the San Tan Memorial Gardens at 22425 E Cloud Road, Queen Creek, AZ 85140

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.

Larry Eugene Sunday passed away peacefully at Emerald Glen Memory Care Plus (although he did not require memory care!) in Mesa, Arizona on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, just six days before his 64th wedding anniversary. He was 85.

Larry was born in Toledo, Ohio on Sunday, January 1, 1939 to John Franklin Sunday, Jr. and Stella Isabell Harmon, the eldest of their two children. As Swanton, Ohio’s “New Year’s Baby” he and his parents were given many gifts by local merchants.

Larry lived in Swanton for over 37 years. Beginning at age twelve, he played the organ for Trinity United Methodist Church, maintaining a passion for the instrument throughout his life. He also played the trombone in the Swanton High School marching band and performed the lead role in the junior class play.

In the second grade he sent a note to a cute little girl named Priscilla Witker. It read, “When we grow up, will you marry me?” They dated during and after high school and were married June 4^th, 1960, by Priscilla’s brother Bill, an ordained minister. On the evening of their wedding, Priscilla’s grandmother Leah Wilbur approached Larry holding the second-grade note and said, “I am glad to see that you are finally going to honor this.”

Thanks to his father-in-law Lawrence Witker, Larry was hired as a draftsman by the Dana Corporation, an automotive parts manufacturer, in 1963. For a lifelong “car guy” (he bought his first car before he obtained his driver’s license), this was a dream job at which he excelled. Eventually he was promoted to technical writer and wrote many “how-to” manuals for installing aftermarket part kits such as a cruise control.

Larry’s other “pastime” besides the organ and cars was serving as a volunteer firefighter for the Swanton Fire Department. He spent most of his 16.2 years of service as a pumper driver and engineer.

In February 1975, Larry and his family joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The family loved the missionaries and became (in)famous for traveling throughout the Michigan Lansing Mission to visit them, eventually drawing a gentle admonition from mission President Russell Hansen. Until neuropathy prevented him, Larry served as a ward organist in every ward he resided, and also various Church missionary and leadership callings.

Larry relocated his family to Tempe, Arizona, in November 1976 in both an effort to eliminate his asthma and to obey a prompting he received from the Holy Ghost.

He obtained his real estate license in February 1977 and became a broker in 1984, maintaining his licensure until his passing. Larry served with distinction on multiple real estate boards and committees at the local, state, and national levels. He received Realtor Emeritus status in 2017 after 40 years in the profession.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents and sweet wife Priscilla. He is survived by his sister Martha (Tom) Gerity of Whitehouse, Ohio; daughter Deborah (Jay) Kristofferson of Chandler, Arizona; son Timothy (Cheri) Sunday of Tempe, Arizona; and four grandchildren.

The family would like to thank his good friends Nelson Butler, Lauren Bolks, Bill Webster, and his wonderful caregivers for their love and support of Larry.

Maxine Ray Steiner, age 98, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2024 at the Emerald Grove facility in Mesa, Arizona surrounded by family.  She was born on September 11, 1925, in Gilbert, Arizona, to Sims Flood and Nellie Ellsworth Ray. She was the cherished wife of Boyd E. Steiner, who preceded her in death in 2013. Together they shared a deep bond and raised a loving family. Maxine is survived by her children Sherry Gillespie (Paul), Mike Steiner (Cara), Doug Steiner (Patty), Christine Montgomery (Kent), and Kelli Reed (Steve). (Deceased: David Steiner and Rae Lynne Donkin.)

Maxine was a devoted grandmother to 37 grandchildren, 106 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

Raised in Mesa, Arizona, she was known for her love of sports, sewing, politics, and family, especially her grandchildren.

She married the love of her life, Boyd E. Steiner, on January 1, 1945. They were sealed in the Mesa Arizona Temple on June 5, 1945. They then embarked on their journey of raising seven children.

Maxine was a pillar of strength in her community. She was actively involved in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, having been baptized on September 30, 1933.

Maxine Ray Steiner was a pioneer in her own right, with an unwavering love for God and family. Her legacy of service, resilience, and devotion will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Viewing: 6/13/2024

Bunker Mortuary

33 N. Centennial Way

Mesa, AZ 85201

From 6 to 8 p.m.

Funeral Service: 6/14/2024

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

3344 E. McDowell Rd.

Mesa, AZ 85213

Viewing from 8:00 to 8:45 a.m.

Service begins at 9 a.m.

Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/97034209717

In Loving Memory of Aysia Nichole Gilliam:

Aysia Nichole Gilliam went to her final resting place on Friday, June 7th, 2024. Aysia will be greatly missed by her family and friends and remembered for her charismatic personality and unique sense of humor. Aysia attended elementary and middle school in Dodge City, Kansas, and attended high school and graduated from Highland High School, in Gilbert, AZ in 2020. Aysia is survived by her parents, Lori (Reynolds) Gilliam, Dodge City, KS and Troy F. Gilliam, Little Rock, AR; sisters, Alyssa (Jayme) Humphrey, Dodge City, KS, and Aspen Gilliam, Scottsdale, AZ; niece, Aria Humphrey, Dodge City, KS; nephews, Griffin and Odin Humphrey, Dodge City, KS; maternal grandmother, Dorotha Reynolds “Nana,” Dodge City, KS; paternal grandparents, Fred and Dorothy Gilliam, Shreveport, LA; aunt, Stephanie Reynolds, Phoenix, AZ; uncles, Scott (Carrie) Reynolds, and Jerrod Gilliam, Shreveport, LA; cousin, Logan Reynolds, Enid, OK. She was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Larry Reynolds “Papa,” Dodge City, KS; paternal great-grandmother, Dorothy (Reynolds) Allen, Dodge City, KS; maternal great-grandmother, Elizabeth West, Scott City, KS; and numerous other family members.

Robert Craig Gadberry—beloved son, father, and friend—passed away at home on June 1, 2024, at the age of 44.  Rob was born November 8, 1979, in Mesa, Arizona, as an only child to parents Ann Petersen Gadberry and Robert C. Gadberry.  Rob graduated from Red Mountain High School in Mesa in 1998 and continued his education at the University of Advancing Technology, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in software engineering.

Rob married Amy Rachelle Crawford on November 17, 2007, in Mesa, Arizona.  The couple had two children, Robert C. Marvin Gadberry and Karter Ann Gadberry.  Rob loved family time and enjoyed all types of games and taking family vacations.  His children were his priority, and he treasured opportunities to support their activities and prized time together.

Rob’s family and friends would often comment on his bright smile.  Those who know Rob would describe him as a man with an incredibly warm and loving heart.  He gave his full attention to others, and friends and family enjoyed being with him.  Rob had a gift for making others laugh. He was a man of great loyalty. He was kind and gave others the benefit of the doubt. Rob valued peace, and always wanted peace in his life.

Rob was an excellent cook, who enjoyed watching cooking shows and improving his craft.  He thoroughly enjoyed cooking for his family, and they were happy to gather to savor his cooking!  His family was especially fond of his gourmet sandwiches and smoked brisket.  One day Rob hoped to have his own food truck.  He had a remarkable mind for trivia and was gifted in remembering all kinds of facts.  He had a love for the great outdoors. An avid football fan, Rob enthusiastically supported the NFL’s Minnesota Vikings, and cheered on the Arizona State University Sun Devils in college football.

Rob’s professional career, which began in software engineering, shifted to becoming a much sought-after recruiter specializing in talent acquisition, predominately in the technical and medical fields.  His valued services were used by a variety of companies and institutions.

Rob is survived by his father Robert C. Gadberry, his mother Ann Burns (husband Patrick), son Robert Gadberry and daughter Karter Gadberry, former wife Amy Dunn (husband Aaron) and children Kaity, Lukas, and Landan.

The family particularly wishes to thank all extended family, friends, and neighbors who have shared love, kindness, and friendship with Rob throughout the years.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 15, 2024, from 9:00 – 10:15 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Brimhall Ward building, located at 1249 S. 48^th Street, Mesa, Arizona 85206.  A funeral will be held in the same location immediately following, at 10:30 am.

Following the service, interment will be at the Mesa Cemetery, 1212 N. Center Street, Mesa, Arizona 85201.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations be made to the giver’s choice of charity.

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.

Benjamin Aaron Abel, loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend, peacefully passed away surrounded by family and dear friends on Thursday, June 6, 2024 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Ben continuously showed courage and bravery throughout his life but especially in his valiant five-year battle against stage four lung cancer. He had unwavering faith as he endured to the end.

Ben was born on March 6, 1984 in Mesa, Arizona to Ronald and Peggy (Meyer) Abel. He was the second of their nine children and spent his childhood in Mesa. After graduating from Mesa High School in 2002, Ben served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Cochabamba, Bolivia. On February 4, 2005, Ben married the love of his life, Michelle Judd, in the Mesa LDS Temple. Ben adored Michelle and always spoke highly of her to others. He thought of her as his queen and he loved taking care of her. Ben and Michelle lived in Mesa and San Tan Valley before making Queen Creek their home.

Ben loved children and was so happy to be a father. He and Michelle anxiously waited and persevered to have children and are the proud parents of Brynlee, Tycen, Emery and Kynzie. Ben was a nurturing, hands-on and very present father. He was affectionate with his children, always holding, carrying and playing with them. He played sports and card games with his kids and would participate in any activity to interact and connect with them on their levels. Ben loved supporting his kids in their interests and activities and went to all their games, concerts and recitals up until the very end of his life.

Ben loved his daughters and treated them like princesses. He enjoyed spoiling them and always wanted them to know their worth and that they were special daughters of God. Tycen was Ben’s sidekick and Ben loved his spunkiness and jokes. He taught Tycen to work hard, to be a leader, and to always love and care for his mother. Ben was not afraid of dying, but he fought hard to live because of his care and concern for Michelle and the kids.

Ben attended the Universal Technical Institute for diesel mechanics and spent most of his career in the construction and restoration industry. For the last twelve years, Ben worked for DC Restoration where he made many friends who he considered to be family. Ben took his role as a provider seriously. He always worked hard to provide for his family and to meet all their needs and wants.

Ben was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was an Eagle Scout and loved the scouting program. He enjoyed serving with the youth and made a big impact on the young men he worked with. Ben was grateful to be able to reach the milestone of baptizing all four of his children as members of the Church.

As an avid lover of the outdoors, Ben enjoyed spending time camping, hunting and riding ATVs. He was a longtime ASU football season ticket holder and he loved taking his friends and family with him to the games. Ben enjoyed all kinds of music and loved to blare music in his truck and put on the perfect music for gatherings and parties. He loved to cook and grill. Good food was important to Ben and he found joy in making gourmet meals to share with everyone. He was very patriotic and known for going all out with decorating for the big holidays. He was a jokester and enjoyed pranking and teasing his family and friends. Ben had a special bond with his nieces and nephews and loved spoiling them. He would often sneak them treats and soda and was a fun uncle, taking all the kids for rides on his RZR.

Ben was very talented and creative and could build and fix just about anything. He built and made many things for his home and took pride in having an immaculate yard. He was also an excellent mechanic and enjoyed fixing up a Ford Bronco with his dad in his youth.  Ben could often be found helping friends and family with their home repairs and remodeling. He would serve anyone and everyone, helping them with whatever they needed. He sacrificed his own needs for the needs of others until the very end of his life.

Ben is survived by his loving wife, Michelle, and his precious children, Brynlee (12), Tycen (11), Emery (9), and Kynzie (8). He is also survived by his mother, Peggy Abel of Mesa, and siblings, Ronald (Cynthia) Meserve of Santa Rosa, CA, Ronda (Larry) Kratzer of Queen Creek, Becky (Josh) Hatch of San Tan Valley, Blake Abel of Mesa, Brenton (Helene Lopez) Abel of Mesa, Brian (Tiffany) Abel of San Tan Valley, Bradley Abel of Mesa, Braden Abel of Mesa, and Connor Abel of Norfolk, VA. Ben will be greatly missed by his 22 nieces and nephews and many cousins and close friends that loved him.

Ben was preceded in death by his father, Ronald, whom he loved and had missed for nineteen years. As the oldest son, Ben stepped in to fill the role as a father figure and caretaker to his younger brothers when their father passed away. The absence of his faithful, steady influence will leave a void but there is great joy in knowing of the glorious reunion Ben is having with his father and the many loved ones who have gone before him.

The Abel family would like to give a very special thank you to Ben’s work family at DC Restoration and will be forever grateful for the way they loved and supported Ben and his family during his fight with cancer. Additional thanks to the medical professionals and the many family, friends and ward members that have offered support and service to Ben, Michelle, and their family over the last several years.

A viewing will be held for Ben on Friday, June 14 from 6:00-8:00 PM at the Bunker Family Gilbert Memorial Park, 2100 E. Queen Creek Rd., Gilbert. Funeral services will take place on Saturday, June 15 at 10:00 AM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 22035 E. Ocotillo Rd., Queen Creek. There will be a viewing prior to the funeral services from 9:00-9:45 AM. The graveside dedication will follow at San Tan Memorial Gardens at Schnepf Farms, 22425 E. Cloud Rd., Queen Creek.

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.

Steven Wayne Roach, aged 67, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away unexpectedly on May 30th, 2024. Steve was born October 30th, 1956 in Phoenix, Arizona, to Wayne and Maurine Roach.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jan, and children, Natalie Wright (Matt), Audrey Tolman (Marcus), Kevin Roach (Amber), Connie Johnson (David), and Eric Roach (Shannon), and 18 grandchildren. Steven is also survived by his dear mother, Maurine Roach, and his sisters, Teri Husted and Brenda Witt. He is preceded in death by his brother, Douglas Roach. Steve’s father, Wayne Roach, passed away five short days after Steve died. His family is comforted in knowing that Steve was there to receive him.

Steve was a curious and smart little boy and always had a mind for engineering. He would often tell stories of the traps, trip lines, pranks, and inventions that he created with his younger brother Douglas. Steve’s children and grandchildren were especially amused by the story of how, as a teenager, Steve was accidentally (and thankfully, not too seriously) electrocuted while taking apart a washing machine, while his brother Douglas was too busy laughing at Steve to help him.

With his memorable deep bass singing voice, Steve was very involved with music and choir at Catalina High School in Tucson, Arizona. He also served on the student council and was elected as the student body president his senior year. He was well liked by many classmates who remember him fondly to this day.

Steve was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints all his life. He served for two years as a representative of our Savior as a missionary in Hong Kong and then attended and graduated from Brigham Young University. He served in many callings, most often as ward choir director. At the time of his death, Elder Roach was assigned to serve in the Arizona Gilbert Mission with his sweet eternal companion, Jan.

He was “true blue, through and through,” and a loyal fan of the BYU football team. He enjoyed watching (or grimacing through) the games with family and friends, and he took pleasure in waking up his teenaged children for early-morning seminary by shaking their beds and singing the Cougar Fight Song. “Rise and shout!”

Steve met Jan Myers in the summer of 1978, and five days after they first met, they got engaged. On December 28th, 1978, Steve and Jan were married in the Mesa Arizona Temple for time and all eternity. Together they raised five children. Steve, better known these days as “Papa” or “Grandpa,” was a caring and devoted grandparent who always made time to attend sporting events, concerts, and other special occasions for his grandchildren, who will all miss him dearly.

After his graduation from BYU, Steve worked for IBM for nearly two decades, and then spent the rest of his career at Microsoft until he retired in the summer of 2023. Many of his colleagues looked up to him as a mentor and friend.

Music was an integral part of Steve’s life and faith. He sang in or directed scores of choirs throughout his life and made many friends through a shared love of music. He was blessed to be born into a musical family and helped foster a love of music in his children. It was one of the most powerful ways that he felt the Spirit of God.

Steve was always ready and willing to help his family in any way. He has been a great support to his parents these last several years and helped his children without judgment with whatever they needed. His dad said that Steve “was the kingpin of the whole family.”

Steve had a powerful and personal testimony of Jesus Christ and of the saving power of His Atonement. He wasn’t afraid to let his emotions show when he would share that testimony with others.

His family will miss him terribly, but is comforted knowing that “because of Him, there is no such thing as the end.”

A memorial service for family and friends will be held at 11:30 AM on Friday, June 7th, 2024, at the Boulder Creek stake center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 3025 South Hawes Rd, Mesa, AZ 85212.

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.

Linda Keel, 78, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away on April 7, 2024, after a brief illness. She was born on August 31, 1945, in Buffalo, New York, to Dan and Ruth (Fornoff) Keel.

Linda attended the University of Arizona and Buffalo University for her undergraduate degree. She was one of the first women accepted into graduate school at Boston University, where she earned a master’s degree in special education.

Linda began her professional career at the Carroll Center for the Blind in Newton, MA, helping previously sighted people develop mobility and life skills.

In the late 70s, Linda moved to Arizona and served as director for the Central Arizona Children’s Education Center, an organization dedicated to children with developmental disabilities. At the same time, she worked tirelessly to help get the federal IDEA Entitlement Grant adopted in Arizona, which provided free public education for children with disabilities.

A bout with thyroid cancer left Linda unable to have children of her own. As a single woman in the early 80s, she was not able to pursue adoption in the United States. So, in 1982, in true trailblazer fashion, Linda proudly adopted infant daughter Sarah Sujani Keel from India.

In 1995, Linda took a pay cut to transition into a new role as a resource teacher for the Mesa Public School District, where she devoted the next 17 years to working with children with severe learning disabilities.

Linda retired in 2012, and enjoyed reading, gardening, and cooking in her free time. She was a lifelong animal lover who would do anything to help a furry friend, including once being hit by a car as a child while trying to catch a runaway cat.

Over the years, Linda rescued many animals and had a special place in her heart for her feline and canine babies Wally, Annie, Justin, Julia and Skippy.

Throughout her life, Linda was an advocate for women’s rights, gay rights, equitable education and animal welfare. She is remembered by peers as an amazing teacher who cared deeply for her students. Friends recall Linda as being direct and kind, having a tough exterior, and as a loyal friend who “always had your back.”

Linda was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by daughter Sarah, as well as many friends and colleagues.

The family thanks Montecito Post-Acute Care and Rehabilitation and Hospice of the Valley for their compassion, dignity and care of Linda, and Bunker Family Funerals and Cremation for their support, kindness and outreach during these difficult times.

Vernie Maria Grimes Spurlock (Verna) 87, passed away peacefully on June 1,2024 in Chandler Arizona.

Verna was born February 17, 1937 in Gallup, New Mexico to Ray Thomas Grimes and Maria Wetton Grimes. She married Ransom Theodore Spurlock (Ted) and together they had six children: Ransom(Glee), Maria Bailey(Bill), Teddy(Doug), Toni Saline(Henry), Pride(Glenna) and Glen(Marcia), who married and blessed her with quite a bunch of grandchildren and “ The Beat Goes On”.

Verna loved her family, travel, sewing, dancing and painting.  She worked as a mother, ranch wife and Postmaster.

She is preceded in passing to the other-side by her parents and husband. She is survived by her Brother, Vincent(Doria), Her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

A viewing and short service will be held Thursday, June 6, 2024 at Bunker Family Funeral Home at 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa, Az. Following, we will dedicate the grave at Mesa Cemetery, located at 1212 N Center St. in Mesa.

A luncheon, storytelling, and dancing will then be enjoyed (at Verna’s request) at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, located at 1115 E Ray Rd, Chandler, AZ 85225.

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.

John Timothy Hanifin, 68, of Mesa, AZ passed away peacefully on May 30, 2024, after a brief illness. John was the son of Jack and Marjorie Hanifin who preceded him in death. His brothers John Rowan Hanifin, Robert Decker and Timothy Decker also preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Mary, and daughters Kristina Lewis (Barry) of Portland, OR and Sarah Hanifin-Hofmeyer (Dean) of Fort Wayne, IN. Also surviving are his brother, Reverend Michael P. Hanifin of Costa Mesa, CA, his sister, Brandy Sandoval of Georgia, his niece Chelsea Jeub (Michael), grandchildren Angelica and Xavier Lewis and many relatives, friends, and colleagues.

John grew up in Anaheim, CA just a few blocks from Disneyland and spent many days exploring the theme park in its early years. Unable to attend college, as a young man he found work as a parts washer in an electric motor repair shop and learned the industrial electric motor repair business from the ground up from winding motor coils to AC and DC motor, drives and gear box repair to vibration analysis and balancing as well as sales and management. He owned his own shop, Accurate Motor Products and Services in Corona, California from 1991 to 2002.

Customer service and quality work were top priorities for John, and he took immense pride in analyzing and resolving issues to keep his clients’ production operations up and running. His knowledge and versatility allowed him to provide solutions for a variety of industries including steel mills, railroads, wind turbines, mining, cement plants and manufacturing plants, which enabled him to build a strong and loyal client base. John was nicknamed the “motorguru” for his ability to solve complex issues that other repair facilities had difficulty with. After closing his shop, he worked as a sales consultant for several companies, with many of his clients following him and sending him work regardless of where he was because they knew he would get the job done right. He traveled extensively throughout his 50yr career sharing his expertise with colleagues and clients in California, Nevada, Arizona, Washington, Illinois, Missouri, and Hawaii.

John had a profound love of music, particularly for classic rock, Motown, as well as Johnny Mathis, Al Green, and the Carpenters. His love of the oldies created fond memories for his daughters Sarah and Kristina, as he would often play Southern California radio station K-Earth 101 known for its selection of retro music while taking them for outings. John also avidly watched nature documentaries and had a deep appreciation for nature in all its forms. He would spend evenings watching the History or National Geographic channel with his daughters. He also loved John Wayne movies, Gunsmoke and Two and a Half Men, and watching golf. John was also a skilled fisherman, and his love of deep-sea fishing took him multiple times to the waters off of San Diego where he caught Yellowfin tuna and Dorado. John’s greatest adventure took him more than once to Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula where he caught halibut in Homer Bay and salmon on the Kenai River. Many times when he returned home with his catch of fish, he’d prepare delicious meals of grilled salmon steaks or halibut tacos. He was also well known among family and friends for his gourmet prime rib dinner for special occasions.

While John accomplished much in his career and was a wealth of knowledge for his clients and business associates, he had a struggle that he kept hidden from everyone except those closest to him. He battled alcoholism most of his life. Alcoholism is a sinister disease that robs the person and those closest to them of happy and healthy relationships, and typically leads to lasting damage both physically, mentally, and emotionally for the person suffering from the disease. Our family did its best to get him help on multiple occasions, but he was unable to beat his addiction.

While watching him struggle caused many feelings of helplessness and sorrow for our family, in the wake of his death we take solace in remembering the good times that we were able and to share with him instead.  Alcoholism affects all types of people. If you or someone you know is suffering from addiction or any life-altering issues please seek help for yourself or help that person seek help for themselves.

At John’s request there will be no funeral services. Cremation will be provided by Bunker University Chapel. A private memorial will be held at a later date. The Hanifin family would like to thank the nursing staff of Banner Gateway Hospital, Sandridge Post Acute Rehab, Stillwater Hospice and Bunker University Chapel for their compassionate care of John as well as their support during his illness and passing. John has left the earth but will be remembered in our thoughts and our hearts. May he rest in peace in God’s loving arms.

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.

Sarah Ann Gale (Tucker) and James (Jimmy, Jim) Walter Gale, beloved wife and husband, passed away within days of each other, Sarah on April 24, 2024, and James on April 28, 2024.  Sarah suffered with Alzheimer’s for several years while James succumbed to heart disease. They were devoted partners and loving parents.

Sarah was born on March 8, 1940, while James entered the world on November 24, 1936.  Sarah was born in Phoenix, AZ to Archie Odus Tucker and Ethel Sara Ann Stogsdill as their thirteenth and youngest child.  Her parents were lifelong farmers, and several of her brothers continued the farming tradition.  She has a loving and very extended family, many of whom still live in AZ. James was born in Phoenix to James Wills Gale and Anna Bernice Echols.  He spent many early years in Flagstaff, played defense for the Flagstaff High School football team and was nicknamed “The Animal”.  He helped his dad with the family gas station and learned valuable business and mechanical skills.  In the late 50’s, he proudly joined the US Navy and was stationed on the USS Hornet during times of peace.

On November 3, 1958, James and Sarah were enjoined in marriage, embarking on a journey filled with love, laughter, and unwavering commitment for 65+ years.  Sarah managed to get a teaching degree at Northern Arizona University while raising their four children in Flagstaff.  The family shared many joyous times boating on Lake Powell and at Rocky Point in Mexico on family vacations that included swimming, boating, fishing and lots of family fun.

Together, Sarah and James shared over six decades of marriage, building a family and many successful businesses including Northland Towing Company in Flagstaff and Paradise Mini-Storage in Glendale.  In addition, the entrepreneurs both earned real estate licenses and became agents in Sun City after moving to the Phoenix area. While building these businesses, they also realized a lifelong dream of building their dream home outside Rocky Point where they enjoyed over three decades of sun, sand, fishing, ATVing and socializing with their many special beach friends.  Sarah was a talented seamstress who also became an enthusiastic cook and beading artist.  She also joined the Arizona Business Women’s Association and Soroptimist Club in the 1970’s. James was a talented mechanic and overall handyman who became a prominent businessman in Flagstaff.  Both were also longtime members of the Elks Club of Flagstaff.  James was also a lifetime football enthusiast, with Alabama Crimson Tide always a favorite.

They are survived by their children:  Ferrell Gale, Tracy Gale (Diane), Jeffery Gale, and Jon Gale (Carrie); grandchildren:  Kristopher Baxter, Hillary Gale Meehan (Shane) and Grant Gale, great-grandson Finley Meehan.  Sarah is also survived by her brother Wayne of Arizona and many nieces, nephews and cousins.  She is pre-deceased by her parents and eleven siblings.  James is survived by his brother John and his wife Cheryl of Oregon and pre-deceased by his parents, stepmother Fern, and sister Bobbie Jean of Utah.

There will be a celebration of their lives on Saturday, September 7 at the Phoenix Elks Lodge #335 from 11 AM to 2 PM, including lunch, where those who knew and loved Sarah and James are invited to join in honoring their memory.  The address is 14424 N 32^nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85032-5022. We request that you contact Tracy Gale by Messenger, e-mail or phone to RSVP so that we can get an accurate count for the caterer. Please leave your condolences at www.bunkerfamily.com.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association or your favorite charity in their memory.

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.

Sarah Ann Gale (Tucker) and James (Jimmy, Jim) Walter Gale, beloved wife and husband, passed away within days of each other, Sarah on April 24, 2024, and James on April 28, 2024.  Sarah suffered with Alzheimer’s for several years while James succumbed to heart disease. They were devoted partners and loving parents.

Sarah was born on March 8, 1940, while James entered the world on November 24, 1936.  Sarah was born in Phoenix, AZ to Archie Odus Tucker and Ethel Sara Ann Stogsdill as their thirteenth and youngest child.  Her parents were lifelong farmers, and several of her brothers continued the farming tradition.  She has a loving and very extended family, many of whom still live in AZ. James was born in Phoenix to James Wills Gale and Anna Bernice Echols.  He spent many early years in Flagstaff, played defense for the Flagstaff High School football team and was nicknamed “The Animal”.  He helped his dad with the family gas station and learned valuable business and mechanical skills.  In the late 50’s, he proudly joined the US Navy and was stationed on the USS Hornet during times of peace.

On November 3, 1958, James and Sarah were enjoined in marriage, embarking on a journey filled with love, laughter, and unwavering commitment for 65+ years.  Sarah managed to get a teaching degree at Northern Arizona University while raising their four children in Flagstaff.  The family shared many joyous times boating on Lake Powell and at Rocky Point in Mexico on family vacations that included swimming, boating, fishing and lots of family fun.

Together, Sarah and James shared over six decades of marriage, building a family and many successful businesses including Northland Towing Company in Flagstaff and Paradise Mini-Storage in Glendale.  In addition, the entrepreneurs both earned real estate licenses and became agents in Sun City after moving to the Phoenix area. While building these businesses, they also realized a lifelong dream of building their dream home outside Rocky Point where they enjoyed over three decades of sun, sand, fishing, ATVing and socializing with their many special beach friends.  Sarah was a talented seamstress who also became an enthusiastic cook and beading artist.  She also joined the Arizona Business Women’s Association and Soroptimist Club in the 1970’s. James was a talented mechanic and overall handyman who became a prominent businessman in Flagstaff.  Both were also longtime members of the Elks Club of Flagstaff.  James was also a lifetime football enthusiast, with Alabama Crimson Tide always a favorite.

They are survived by their children:  Ferrell Gale, Tracy Gale (Diane), Jeffery Gale, and Jon Gale (Carrie); grandchildren:  Kristopher Baxter, Hillary Gale Meehan (Shane) and Grant Gale, great-grandson Finley Meehan.  Sarah is also survived by her brother Wayne of Arizona and many nieces, nephews and cousins.  She is pre-deceased by her parents and eleven siblings.  James is survived by his brother John and his wife Cheryl of Oregon and pre-deceased by his parents, stepmother Fern, and sister Bobbie Jean of Utah.

There will be a celebration of their lives on Saturday, September 7 at the Phoenix Elks Lodge #335 from 11 AM to 2 PM, including lunch, where those who knew and loved Sarah and James are invited to join in honoring their memory.  The address is 14424 N 32^nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85032-5022. We request that you contact Tracy Gale by Messenger, e-mail or phone to RSVP so that we can get an accurate count for the caterer. Please leave your condolences at www.bunkerfamily.com.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association or your favorite charity in their memory.

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.

Mark Anthony Sorensen passed away May 26th, 2024 at his home in Gilbert, Az.  He was able to be reunited with his wife, Christina Sorensen, and his parents Janet & Lincoln Sorensen along with grandparents, aunts and uncles who preceded him in death.

Mark was born October 27, 1956 in Provo, UT as the oldest of 6 children, 3 boys and 3 girls. He spent his childhood in North Ogden UT. He served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Munich Germany.  After attending college at BYU Provo, Mark moved with his family to Arizona where he lived for over 40 years.

Mark had a passion for sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ.  He loved meeting people, getting to know their story and then finding ways to serve them.  He loved to read, to be outdoors, especially in Bear Lake Utah, and to watch everything on BYU tv.  Mark loved his family and was constantly trying to improve and become a better person.

He is survived by his 5 children, Heather (Ben) Mishler, Nathan (Millie) Sorensen, Heidi (Jason) Payne, Madison (Weston) Sorensen and Paige (Ethan) Sorensen, along with his 5 siblings, Kristen (Corey) Bell, Shauna (James) Beams, Gregg (Julie) Sorensen, Todd (Debbie) Sorensen and Jenn (Rob) Jones.  Mark has 13 grandchildren who love him and will miss him.

Services will be held Sunday June 9th, 2024 at 4pm at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 220 Cullumber Ave. Gilbert, AZ 85234.  Internment will be at San Tan Memorial Garden at Schnepf Farms Monday June 10th.

Melvyn Richard Standage of Mesa, Arizona, passed away peacefully at age 79 on May 30, 2024, surrounded by many loving family members. Born on December 4,1944, he was a man of integrity, quiet wisdom, extraordinary service and unwavering faith. He valued hard work and found solitude in his early morning walks and in the great outdoors.

He was deeply involved in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, serving his community in many capacities with dedication and selflessness. While serving a mission for the LDS Church in Chile, he met Edith Victoria (“Vickie”) Brito. They married in May 1966. They raised seven children and later served a mission together in the Central American Area Office in Guatemala. After 56 years of marriage, Vickie passed away in 2022. The following year Richard married Thelma Shupe.

Those who knew Richard will always remember his love for his family and for the Lord, serving both with compassion, careful attention and boundless energy. He had a profound impact on many lives, offering steady guidance, support and inspired counsel.

Richard is preceded in death by his wife, Vickie; his daughter, Laurie Amos; his parents Mel and Helen Standage; and his brother, Robert (“Bobby”). He leaves behind a remarkable legacy and will be dearly missed by his many friends and loving family, including his new bride Thelma Shupe Standage; his children John (Anna), Richard (Gayle), Paul (Tammy), Tina Bushman (John), Julie Turner (James) and Jeff (Tracy); son-in-law Brian Amos; his brothers Rod (Mitzi) and Kim (Maggie), and his sister Lori Painter (Rob). At the time of his passing Richard had 28 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, 7 step-children, 16 step-grandchildren, and many other beloved family members and friends.

There will be a visitation Thursday, June 6, 2024, from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 N. Centennial Way in Mesa. Funeral services will be held Friday, June 7, 2024, at 9:00am at the LDS chapel located at 1050 S. Hobson in Mesa, preceded by a brief visitation at 8:00am. Richard will be laid to rest at the Mesa City Cemetery.

For those who wish to live stream the funeral services … bit.ly/mesastake.

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.