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After courageously fighting health battles for over 20 years, David Harold Porter, much loved husband, father and grandfather, peacefully passed away, surrounded by his loving wife and family, on August 13, 2025, at his home in Mesa, Arizona. He was born October 18, 1956, in Mesa, Arizona, the youngest of five children, to Harold Perry Porter and Raeleen Carpenter Porter.

David graduated from Westwood High School, class of 1974. He served a faithful mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Caracas Venezuela mission. Upon returning, David attended Mesa Community College where he met his sweetheart Jill Annette Rainey. They were sealed in the Mesa Arizona Temple on August 11, 1978.

David graduated from Arizona State University in 1983 with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. He spent his career as a tax accountant. David loved guns, shooting sports, ASU Football, the Arizona Diamondbacks and Mountain Dew.

David served faithfully throughout his life in many capacities of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, including as Bishop of the Mesa 61st Ward. David loved spending time with his family. He and Jill created a loving family that includes 10 children, 32 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

David is survived by his wife of 47 Years, Jill Porter; his children Michael (Andrea) Porter, Bradley (Rachel) Porter, Matthew (Janeen) Porter, Andrew (DeeDee) Porter, Daniel (Page) Porter, Kristen (Dallin) Pear, Melissa (Jake) Myers, Darrell (Shannah) Porter, Jared (Shelbie) Porter, Samuel (Megan) Porter, 32 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren; his siblings, LaNelle (Jerry, deceased) Morris, Donald (Marlane) Porter, Randy (Merlinda) Porter, Linda (Bill) Smith, and numerous other loving family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, his nephew Braiden Rainey and his great-niece Celeste Morris.

Special thanks to members of the Mesa 61st Ward for their generous service in helping David with transportation home from his dialysis appointments and his amazing wife Jill for the many years of tender loving care she provided.

The visitation will be Friday, August 22, 2025, from 6:00pm – 8:00pm at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Mesa East Stake Center, 2228 E Brown Rd, Mesa, AZ 85213. Funeral Services are Saturday, August 23,2025 at 10:00am, preceded by a visitation from 9:00am – 9:45am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Mesa East Stake Center, 2228 E Brown Rd, Mesa, AZ 85213.

https://zoom.us/j/93513028697

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.

Wanda Jan Carroll, 87, passed away peacefully in her home, surrounded by loved ones, on August 9, 2025 in Mesa, Arizona.

Jan was born the second of five children to Milo Richard and Laura Wanda (Hill) LeBaron on April 13, 1938. She spent her childhood in Mesa, along with her siblings Milo Jr., Sally (Nelson), Cheryl (Cummard), and Michael. She was raised in a family that cherished family history, service, and dedication to Jesus Christ. Those attributes stayed with Jan throughout her life and she passed on that love and faith to her children, as well as a deep gratitude and sense of connection to those from the past.

After graduating from Mesa High School, Jan attended Arizona State University, where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in Education while waiting for John Carroll, her high-school sweetheart, to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Always steadfast, John sent her a wedding ring before he even returned home, and the two were married in the Mesa, Arizona Temple in 1959.

Jan and John celebrated nearly six decades of marriage before John passed away six years ago. He was the love of her life, and she followed him even when it took her to places against her inclinations like the beaches of Lake Powell for family trips, and the blizzards of upper New York and Spanish-speaking branches in Texas as senior missionaries. Together they had eight children: Cathy Sones (Jon), Don (Sonia Wilhelm), Shelle Clouse (Russell), Wayne, Wanda, Carri Matthews (Marshall), Lafe (LeAnn Starr), and Brian (Melinda Jones).

Without question, Jan’s greatest joy was her family. She had a tight connection to her siblings and extended family who all lived close and continued to gather for reunions and events throughout adulthood. She was a dedicated and loving mother or “Mama” (she did not appreciate being called “Mom”). That love extended to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren who knew they could come to her for a smile, a hug, and a handful of gummy bears.

Jan could almost always be found at her cabin in Strawberry or in her bedroom, sitting in a chair next to the bay window, except between the hours of 4 a.m. to 11 a.m. where she somehow managed to get more things done than most people accomplish in a full day. That room also operated as her gathering room, her office, and her craft room, even when other rooms in the house were available. She loved sitting at that window where she could look out into her backyard and watch the hummingbirds zip around bird-feeders and see the wind chimes sway. She especially loved watching the children play—first her own children, then her grandchildren, and ultimately her great-grandchildren, along with nieces and nephews, neighbors, and friends.

Over the last couple decades, Jan’s time in that chair gradually increased as she watched over John while his health declined, and then as her own health and energy also faded. Eventually the chair became a hospital bed, still set near the bay window, where she spent her final days surrounded by a stream of loved ones coming to say goodbye and express their deep gratitude for her and her life of service. Jan’s loss has been felt by many who were blessed to have her influence in their lives.

Jan was preceded in death by her husband John; her daughter, Wanda; her great-grandchildren, Mason and Gracie; her parents, Milo and Wanda; and her older brother, Milo Jr. Left to carry on her legacy are seven children, 38 grandchildren, 58 great grandchildren (with 6 more on the way), and her siblings Sally, Cheryl, and Michael.

Please join us to celebrate and remember Jan’s life and her testimony of Jesus Christ. We will hold a viewing on Friday, August 22, 2025, from 6:00pm-8:00pm at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 North Centennial Way, Mesa, Arizona 85201. The funeral services will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at the Kimball Stake Center, 1266 South 32nd Street, Mesa, Arizona 85204. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Humanitarian Fund for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

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.

Josephine “Jody” Curtis Bailey, 77, passed away on August 5, 2025, in Gilbert, Arizona.

She was born November 3, 1947 to Alexander Raine Curtis and Elaine Broadbent Curtis in Salt Lake City, Utah. Jody was the fifth of five children: Pat (Vaughn) Belnap, Carol (Stan) Delbridge, Mary (Mike) Gourley, and Tom (Suzanne) Curtis.

She grew up in Holladay, UT where she briefly attended Olympus High School, then moved on to University of Utah. She studied music and earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from the U. She taught sixth grade for several years and later taught soldiers so they could earn their GED certificate.

On April 15, 1966, Jody married the love of her life, Michael Cardall Bailey, in the Salt Lake Temple. They were fortunate to have celebrated nearly 60 years together. After moving across the country to a few different places while Mike worked his way through dental schools and military service, they settled in Mesa, AZ to raise their three children, Michael Curtis Bailey (Michelle), Richard Curtis Bailey (Mindi), and Genevieve Bailey Earl (Kimball).

Jody led an active life, filled with family and friends. Her feisty nature made her the life of any party. She was a great cook and loved sharing her table with the family she built wherever she lived. If chocolate was involved, that was even better.

Jody had a firm testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ and faithfully served in many church callings, and, if she didn’t feel she was being used enough, she often asked for more ways to serve. She played the organ in sacrament service since she was 14 years old and had a beautiful touch. She served a full-time mission as a youth in “the greatest mission of all time,” the Southwest British Mission. Later, she served other full-time missions with Mike at Arizona State University Institute, Adam-ondi-Ahman, University of Texas San Antonio Institute, and, most recently, as the senior coordinating couple for senior service missionaries. She loved serving the youth and young single adults. She was a volunteer institute instructor at Mesa Community College and ASU Institute where she led the choir and taught classes. Her greatest love, aside from Mike, was her time serving in the temple on Wednesday mornings for many years.

Jody loved the outdoors and adventures, and she passed that love along to her children and grandchildren. Her father would take her out on horseback rides or fishing before school (and sometimes accidentally during school). In the winter, she was riding snowmobiles and in the summer, she was at the lake. She and Mike would find themselves at the family cabin often claiming the mountains were calling her. She was always game for a road trip, as long as she could sit in the front seat or drive.

Jody especially loved spending time with her ten grandchildren, [Curt] Kayla MacNeille (Rhett), Taylor Bailey (Lexi), and Tori Clouse (Marcus); [Rick] Gunner Bailey (Hannah), Jessie Magdaleno (Franny), Hyrum Bailey, and Abigail Bailey; [Genny] Joseph Earl, Kimberly Earl, and Brigham Earl; and her four great-grandchildren, Cannon MacNeille, Bailee MacNeille, Bristal MacNeille, and Violet Bailey. There was almost always a deck of cards and a bowl of candy or goldfish involved in these gatherings. The pool was always open, and she would often join the fun. She always encouraged the children to develop talents and was so proud as we “sang” Christmas carols on kazoos each year at the family Christmas party. She felt the most joy as she witnessed her grandchildren share their testimonies while performing the story of the Nativity. Every activity always ended with a testimony of the gospel and our family motto: “In unity there is strength.”

We love her, and she will be sorely missed. We find comfort in knowing we will see her again. We are happy for her reunion with her parents, family, and dear friends who preceded her.

There will be a viewing held on Friday, August 22, 2025, from 6:00pm-8:00pm, at Bunker Family Funerals University Chapel at 3529 E University Drive, Mesa, Arizona 85213.

The funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025, from 10:00am-11:00am, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Old Gilbert Road building at 2424 N Old Gilbert Road, Mesa, AZ 85213, with a visitation prior to the funeral from 9:00-9:45am.

A live stream of the service will be available at jodybailey.funeralsvc.link.

Interment will be at the Mesa Cemetery at 1212 N Center St, Mesa, AZ 85201.

The family is grateful for the reverence and respect that the medical teams at Dignity Health hospitals, Hospice of the Valley-Lund Home, and Bunker Family Funerals held for Jody while in their care. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a charity of your choice on her behalf.

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.

Barbara Stechnij, born October 2, 1950, in Mesa, Arizona, to Robert and Doris Nicolaus, passed away peacefully on the morning of August 2, 2025, at Mercy Gilbert in Gilbert, Arizona.

A 1968 graduate of Westwood High School, Barbara married her beloved husband, Michael Cummard Sr., and together they raised two sons, Michael Cummard Jr., born March 1972, and Matthew Cummard, born June 1975.

Barbara pursued higher education at Mesa Community College and Arizona State University. She furthered her studies in finance, obtaining her Accredited Accountant license, a credential she maintained until her passing. With dedication, she assisted countless individuals with their taxes, trusts, and accounting needs.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Doris Nicolaus, her brother Robert Nicolaus, and her nephew Brandon Mendoza.

She is survived by her sons, Michael Cummard Jr. and his wife, Summer, along with their children, Lexi and Kai Cummard; and Matthew Cummard and his wife, Marci, with their children, Cameron and Caden Cummard.

Barbara’s greatest joy was her family, to whom she was a devoted mother, wife, and grandmother. She cherished every moment spent with her loved ones, whether playing board games, engaging in online games, or simply sharing stories and laughter with her grandchildren. Her annual Grandma’s Summer Camp, where she welcomed all her grandchildren for a week of fun and bonding, was a treasured tradition. Her warmth and love will be deeply missed by her family.

Funeral services for Barbara will begin with a Rosary at 9:30 a.m, followed by a 10:00 a.m. Mass at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Gilbert, Arizona, with a streamed channel available for remote viewing. Following the service, Barbara will be laid to rest at Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Mesa, Arizona.

A gathering for family and friends will take place after the services to celebrate her life at Christ the King Knights of Columbas Hall at 1616 E. Broadway Rd. Mesa, AZ 85204

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.

Norajean Rasmussen Deepe was born August 30, 1951 in Omaha, Nebraska to Rudolph Caleb and Anna Marie Nielsen Rasmussen; and peacefully passed away in her sleep August 2, 2025.

Norajean graduated from Lincoln Northeast High School in 1970, then enrolled at the University of Nebraska. She married Jim Deepe January 15, 1972. They moved to Phoenix, Arizona; and enjoyed living, working and raising their family successfully in Arizona and Nebraska.

Norajean was a hard-working, loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and independent beauty consultant. She enjoyed baking, cooking, sewing, crocheting and socializing. Her pie crusts were second to none. She volunteered many hours to Boy Scouts, Brownies, Girl Scouts and Lutheran church activities. She is a past Worthy Matron of Eastern Star. She was a very warm, out-going and devoted friend. She compensated so well for her multiple physical disabilities that only her closest friends and family were aware of them.

Norajean was preceded in death by her parents Rudy and Ann Nielsen Rasmussen, mother-in-law Donna Deepe, brother GySgt Harry Rasmussen USMC retired, granddaughters Jenna Daer and Taylor Deepe, nephew Brian Rasmussen and sister-in-law Jo Ann Gibson Deepe Stottlemire.

Norajean is survived by her husband of 53 years Jim Deepe of Mesa Arizona, son Richard (Sheila) Deepe of Casa Grande Arizona, daughter Nicole (Dave) Daer of Marana Arizona, father-in-law Owen Deepe of Fargo North Dakota, brother-in-law Dale (Judie) Deepe of Greybull Wyoming, sister-in-law Jan McCormick of Fargo North Dakota, former brother-in-law Kim McCormick of Sparks Nebraska, sister-in-law Maddie Rasmussen of Tekamah Nebraska, brothers Howard (Linda) Rasmussen of Lincoln Nebraska and Captain Jim (Jan) Rasmussen USMC retired of Liberty Hill Texas, six grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, seven nieces, six nephews, many cousins and more friends.

Norajean’s funeral service will be held at 3 PM on Monday August 11, with visitation for one hour before the service, at Bunker Family Funeral Home 3529 E University Dr in Mesa Arizona.

The interment service will be private.

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.

James Harold Parker, 79, passed away on August 1, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana due to complications from leukemia. He was born November 28, 1945 in Minneapolis, Minnesota and lived in Arizona most of his life. He married Bettye Riggs on June 9, 1972 in the Mesa Arizona Temple. Following her death, he married Sally Pettingill on April 13, 2019.

He is survived by his second wife Sally, children Marc, Kerin (John), and Lindsay (Craig), and 11 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Bettye.

Jim served in the Army during the Vietnam War. He was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served a full time mission in Chile. He also served as bishop in the Johnson Ranch ward, high councilman and many various callings throughout his life. He loved working with his hands and enjoyed many hobbies such as woodworking and building things from models to pieces of furniture. His family and friends will miss him greatly and look forward to seeing him again someday.

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.

Luis Esquivel Manriquez returned to his Heavenly Father’s side on July 31, 2025.

Born in Torreón, Mexico in 1952, he immigrated to the United States, along with his parents, brother and four sisters, when he was 15 years old. He graduated from Burbank High School then attended Cal State University Northridge before transferring to Los Angeles Valley College. It was there that he met the love of his life and wife of 48 years, Olivia.

After they were married, he moved to Denver, CO where he worked for several years at Coors Brewing Company. They had two daughters, Gracie and Diana. He followed his wife when she took a job for the National Parks Service and lived at Grand Canyon National Park. He continued to pursue his education and graduated from Northern Arizona University with a B.S. in Chemistry, minor in Mathematics. He moved the family to Mesa, AZ, when he got a job as a Chemist with the City of Phoenix. He would eventually become a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He retired from the City of Phoenix after 30 years, to become a full-time grandfather to his seven grandchildren.

Luis was an avid road-tripper, a model train enthusiast, and ultimate weekend warrior.

He is preceded in death by his father, Pascual, and his brother, Sevriano. He is survived by his wife Olivia; his two daughters, Graciela and Diana; his seven grandchildren, Colin, Ava, Jack, Emaline, Adele, Hazel and Eliza; his mother, Martha; and his five sisters, Ignacia, Carmen, Magdalena, Lourdes and Lisa.

Viewing and visitation will be held on Thursday, August 14, 2025 at 9 am, funeral services will follow at 10 am, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 1249 S. 48th St., Mesa, AZ.

The service will be streamed for those who cannot attend at the following link: Service For Luis Manriquez.

Flowers may be sent to Bunker University Chapel, 3529 E. University Dr., Mesa, AZ 85213 by August 13, 2025.

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.

(Gerald) Brett Fowles passed from this earth on July 31, 2025, receiving a warm welcome into the fold of his family, who preceded him in death: his parents Gerald R and Helen Whitmore Fowles, his sisters, Amy Carma Fowles and Jana Fowles Woodruff, and brother Jeffry Reed Fowles.

Known as Brett to all, he was born August 27, 1970, the youngest of the four children, in Salt Lake City, UT. Through high school, Brett proved to be a skilled athlete, particularly excelling in football, receiving the attention of scouts, but ultimately chose a different path.

Brett entered the United States Marine Corp in April 1992, serving to April 1996, where he was selected to study and work in Cryogenics due to his intelligence and proclivity for the field. Brett was very proud of his service to the U.S., and had impressionable experiences while stationed in Okinawa, and Twentynine Palms, CA.

After his service, Brett made a career in the field of heavy construction, working his way from entry position to management, with responsibilities inclusive of overseeing the planning, coordination, and execution of large construction projects, typically highways.

Brett was happiest when with his family. It was his wonderful memories of family trips to Disneyland that led to taking his son to Disneyland several times, starting at the age of 4, to do for his son what his parents had long ago done for him.

Another favorite family past time was playing board games. From a young age, Brett proved to be the master of board games, such as Rail Baron, Ticket to Ride, and Risk, which he carried into his adulthood, rivalled only by his son in his later years. Brett fostered a love of games in his son, introducing him to Dungeons and Dragons, and teaching him how to play strategy games like Risk.

Brett had a gentle heart with a tough exterior. He was very proud of his heritage and found solace in his love of both rock music and Celtic melodies, in addition to an affinity for the medieval period. Brett would spend hours discussing history, geo-political events, life and theological topics with his beloved siblings, brother Jeff, sisters Amy and Jana, and listening to his sister Jana about his nephews’ lives. Brett sorely missed his parents and siblings and carried that with him every day.

Brett’s legacy carries on, through his son Daughtry M. Fowles, nephews Connor Woodruff and Logan Woodruff, sister-in-law Pamela (Jeff) Fowles, and close friend Alice Clark, in addition to his Fowles and Whitmore extended family, along with his close friends from his youth, all of whom he cared for very deeply.

Brett will be celebrated on Friday, August 15th, with Visitation beginning at 4:30 p.m., followed by a Memorial Service at 6:30 p.m., at Bunker Family Funeral Home, University Chapel, located at 3529 E. University Drive, Mesa, AZ, 85213.

Please use the following link for a livestream of the service. This link will remain available for some time afterward.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a charity of choice, or those that support our Veterans, such as the American Legion: Donate Online

Or those found through this link: Some Top-Rated Nonprofit Organizations for Veterans | Military.com

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.

Patricia Margarita Rios, our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend passed away peacefully on July 31, 2025 in Gold Canyon, Arizona at the age of 80.

Pat was born on April 22, 1945, in Chihuahua, Mexico to Carlos and Margarita Alvarez. The family migrated to Phoenix, Arizona in 1957 when Pat was just twelve years old. She attended St. Mary’s High School where she graduated in 1962.  After high school she worked as a secretary for various companies, but her true calling was to the arts.

Pat had two sons, Billy (Born Christmas day 1969) and Gary (also born Christmas day 1972) from her first marriage. She loved being a boy mom.  She would jump at the chance to take them to the zoo or the park, often prioritizing these outings over household chores or grocery shopping.  Family gatherings were essential during these formative years, allowing her boys to cultivate enduring relationships with their grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Pat and Peter met through a mutual friend and even though she said she would never date an “engineer”, especially if he was 10 years younger than she was, Peter did not waiver. Eventually they married in 1982, becoming a family with Pat’s two sons, Bill and Gary.

Peter, recognizing Pat’s talent for art, encouraged her to enroll in Mesa Community College, where she received wonderful art instruction.  This launched her lifelong quest as an artist.  Some of the family’s most treasured remembrances of Pat are the paintings she did of her grandchildren.  Being an award-winning artist, Pat saw the world very differently than others.  She saw the majesty and beauty of God’s creation, and also shared her own personal journey with the Lord through her art.  The “glue” that held Pat’s marriage to Peter together for 42 years was their mutual faith in the Lord.  As devoted Christians, both Pat and Peter gave credit to the Lord for keeping them together, through good times and bad times.  The strongest bond that Pat and Peter shared was their faith in Jesus.

“I will not die, but live, and I will tell what the Lord has done.” – Psalm 118:17 (NCV)

Pat is preceded in death by her mother Margarita and father Carlos and also a son Petey Jr.

Pat leaves behind her beloved husband, Peter Rios. Sons: Bill (Amy) Hegel, Gary (Jamie) Hegel. Bill’s children:  Breanne, Brooke, Melanie, Bailee, Brecklyn and Alex.  Gary’s children:  Devan, Makayla, Trenton, Shaylyn, Landon and Ashley. Along with a growing number of adorable great grandchildren. Siblings: Flor Hickman, Maria (Bob) Blayter, Carlos (Bobbi) Alvarez.  And many beloved nieces and nephews.

VIEWING:  Echoes Church HQ, located at 10153 E Hampton Ave #106, Mesa, AZ 85209 on August 15, 2025, from 9:00 am

CELEBRATION OF PAT’S LIFE:  Echoes Church HQ, located at 10153 E Hampton Ave #106, Mesa, AZ 85209 on August 15, 2025, at 10:15 am

GRAVESIDE PRAYER:  Mesa Cemetery 1212 N. Center St. Mesa, AZ following the Celebration of Life

In memory of Pat, we invite you to honor her love for one of the following charities in lieu of flowers.

1. Wall Builders: https://wallbuilders.givingfuel.com/donate
2. First Liberty Institute: https://firstliberty.org/donation/support-first-liberty-main/
3. Scottsdale Artists’ School- Youth Outreach: https://www.scottsdaleartschool.org/support

If sending Flowers – Please have them delivered to the below address on August 14th:

Bunker Family Funerals & Cremation ~ University Chapel

3529 East University Drive, Mesa, AZ 85213

Telephone: (480) 830-4105

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.

Remembering with love — our mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend. Dixie Hancock Krauss passed away peacefully in her home in Mesa, Arizona, on July 31, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. She was born to Perry and Lora Hancock on August 10, 1938, in the rock home built by her father in Pinedale, Arizona.

Dixie is survived by six of seven children and their families, two sisters and their spouses, and hundreds of nieces and nephews who knew her as Auntie Dixie. She is and always will be loved and cherished by her family.

She was preceded in death by her adoring husband Max who called her, “Dixie Dollie.” They were married for 40 years. Max was the love of her life. She missed him dearly after his passing.

Dixie valued family and loved each member deeply, staying in touch with every branch of her siblings and their children. She facilitated communication, keeping all informed and included. For many years, she also served as the newsletter editor for both her paternal and maternal families. She cherished attending family gatherings and went to them as often as she could. Through her loving acceptance, insightful counsel, and unwavering service, she strengthened the bonds that held the family together.

She was a grateful wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and auntie, always cherishing the relationships she had with her family. She deeply appreciated the kindness and love shown to her by others, and her gratitude was evident in every connection she made.

Dixie was a dedicated family historian who, in her later years, authored, edited, and compiled over a dozen books preserving family history. These works, which spread across multiple generations, have already — and will continue to — bless her family for years to come. Earlier in life, she was always capturing key moments, taking photos and videos, and recording significant family events. Her books are cherished by her extended family, preserving their shared heritage for future generations.

Dixie was known for her many talents, including her seamstress skills, making dresses, monograms, and purses. She was also a skilled roper – a talent she carried with her from high school into adulthood. Dixie’s creativity extended to many family traditions, like making sugar “peek-a-boo” Easter eggs and graham cracker gingerbread houses. Many of her children and grandchildren remember these traditions with fondness.

Dixie was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where she served in various callings, including as a Relief Society teacher for 25 years. She had a deep love for the Savior, His gospel, and the living prophets. Her faith impacted every aspect of her life, shaping her outlook, personal growth, and the way she loved and cared for those around her.

Dixie will be greatly missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.

https://zoom.us/j/96433124566

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.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joseph Edward Alvarez, age 38, who passed away unexpectedly on July 23, 2025, in Mesa, Arizona. Joseph lived a humble and cherished life, deeply devoted to his family and loved by all who knew him.

Joseph’s greatest joy came from his family. He is survived by his beloved son, Anthony; his mother, Franshesca; his stepfather, Jaime; his grandmother, Eva; his brothers, Jeremy and Julian; and his sister, Juliet. He also leaves behind a large extended family of cousins, many of whom he considered his closest friends.

A proud Arizona native, Joseph was a lifelong Arizona Cardinals fan and a devoted animal lover. His warm heart, loyal spirit, and love for life will be remembered and treasured forever.

A memorial ceremony and Rosary will be held on Monday, August 4th at 6:00 PM at Bunker’s Family Funeral Home, located at 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ 85201.

Funeral Mass will take place on Tuesday, August 5th at 10:00 AM at Queen of Peace Catholic Church, located at 141 N. McDonald, Mesa, AZ 85201.

Joseph’s presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

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

Our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, Suzanne Hollingshead Wermuth, passed away peacefully on July 27, 2025, in Mesa, Arizona, just one month shy of her 87th birthday.

Suzanne was born on August 27, 1938, and spent her life devoted to her family, faith, and simple joys. A lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she lived her life with quiet faith and generous love. As a dedicated stay-at-home mom, she found joy and purpose in raising her five children and creating a home filled with warmth, unconditional love, and kindness.

She is preceded in death by her son David Wermuth. She is survived by her children: Wendy Udall, Danny Wermuth, Holly Sato, and Heather Hendershott; her 23 grandchildren; and 24 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her cherished twin brother, Wick Hollingshead.

In addition to her family, Suzanne shared a deep and enduring bond with Monte Burke, who passed away shortly before her. Their connection was one of quiet devotion, comfort, and mutual care—a rare and tender relationship that brought joy and meaning to her later years.

One of the great friendships of her life was with Grace Fish. For over 50 years, the two were inseparable—two free spirits who loved to shop, laugh, and get into what we lovingly called “trouble”—but always in the best way.

Suzanne had a remarkable ability to make others feel seen and loved. She had a gift for making people feel like they could do no wrong. Her generosity knew no bounds, and she was known for her loving and kind spirit. She especially enjoyed antiques, puzzles, dancing, playing games with family, and the thrill of a great thrift store find.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew her and loved her.

A viewing will be held on Friday, August 8, from 6:00–8:00 p.m.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 9, with a viewing from 9:00-10:00 a.m. followed by the funeral service from 10:00-11:00 a.m.

All services will take place at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located at 848 N. Westwood, Mesa, AZ 85201.

Suzanne will be laid to rest immediately following the funeral at the Mesa Cemetery.

If you are unable to attend the service, please click on the following link to livestream the service: https://zoom.us/j/96745239416

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.

A memorial service for Walter T Johnson, 86, will be held on Saturday, August 2, at 2PM at Bunker’s University Chapel, 3529 E. University, Mesa, Arizona 85213.

Walter was born November 11, 1938 in Wausau, Wisconsin and passed away on July 28, 2025 in Gilbert, Arizona.

Walter served in the United States Army for 27 years, and retired in 1987.  He graduated from Troy State University in 1981.  Walter then worked as a tax preparer for 25 years.

Walter is survived by his wife Karen; step-children Debra Willoughby (Dave), Linda Martineau (Charles), Robert Etherington (Lisa), Mike Etherington, Colette Etherington, Josh Etherington (Nicole); one brother Clement Meas (Ann); and many loving grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to a favorite 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.

Nancy Lou Apsey passed away on the morning of July 10, 2025 at the age of 94.

Born in Piqua, Ohio, of parents Ted and Dorothy Thomas, Nancy was the eldest of four children. She and her family moved to Grand Rapids Michigan, where she attended South High School.

In May of 1950 Nancy married the love of her life, Theodore (Ted) Apsey. They spent the next 62 years together, until Ted passed away in 2013. During that time Nancy dedicated her life to taking care of Ted and their 4 children, always providing a clean house, good cooking and a loving home.

In recent years Nancy would often tell people that it seemed like she was always moving, packing and unpacking, which was actually true. Beginning soon after marriage, Ted joined the U.S. Air Force and they moved to the base in Illinois, where Nancy gave birth to Gary, their first son. Ted was then transferred to a base in Japan, where their first daughter, Valorie was born. After finishing Ted’s military service, the family of four moved to back Grand Rapids, where Nancy brought two more children into the world; a second daughter, Linda and finally a second son, Thomas.  Over the years moving became a way of life, as husband Ted was always in search of better and higher paying jobs. Being devoted to Ted, Nancy dutifully packed up the family’s things and supervised the loading of their furniture and belongings into the moving vans, always without complaint. As for the moves, there were many: Granada Hills California (twice), Dayton Ohio, Tempe AZ, Colorado Springs and Scottsdale AZ. Then, after Ted retired, he and Nancy built a home in Fountain Hills where they lived, until they moved to Prescott AZ where they built another new home. After a while they moved to Dewey AZ, after which they moved to Mesa AZ, where they lived until Ted’s passing in 2013. Nancy remained there until she moved to Casa Grande AZ, to live with her daughter, Linda and husband Dennis, in 2019. Her last move was to a nice apartment in Mesa, with the help of son Thomas and his wife, Debbie, in February 2025, where she lived comfortably until her passing.

Nancy filled those last months doing the things she loved, watching her favorite TV shows like Matlock, Murder She Wrote, classic movies and DIY home improvement shows. Most of all, she enjoyed watching Arizona Diamondbacks baseball, which she followed religiously for years. She spent time every day looking at her collection of photos, remembering all the good times traveling with Ted to Hawaii, New Zealand and Yosemite, and later to Hawaii again with son Gary and wife Sandie and her mother, Helen in 2013.  Nancy also stayed with daughter Valorie and husband Tommy in Missouri for 6 weeks, where they took her to Branson and other local attractions. She hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon after having survived breast cancer, and worked alongside Ted in their small business, “Apsey’s Custom Cases”. She also loved painting landscapes and still lifes in oil and watercolors. She was very thankful to still have wonderful memories of those accomplishments. Nancy will be remembered by all who knew her as warm and loving, quick to smile, full of joy and a spicy baseball fan.

Nancy is survived by her four children, five grandchildren, six great grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother John, sisters Marilyn and Teena, and their families, sister-in-law Donna and numerous nieces, nephews and their children.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of the Valley at Friendship Village in Tempe Arizona for the care they gave in her last days.

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.

Jacqueline Kay Chapman, known to loved ones as “Jackie or Granny,” passed away peacefully on July 19, 2025, in Gilbert, Arizona, at the age of 83.

Jackie was born on October 28, 1941, in Los Angeles, California, and was raised in Green River, Wyoming, alongside her brother, Thomas, by their parents, Russell and June Cameron.

She married the love of her life, Jerry L. Chapman, on January 3, 1963. Together, they raised six sons — Jay, Jon, James, Jody, Jean, and Jack — and remained devoted to one another until Jerry’s passing on July 20, 2000, in Mesa, Arizona.

Jackie is survived by her six sons, eleven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. She was deeply proud of her family and played a vital role in raising several of her grandchildren. After Jerry’s passing, Jackie spent the rest of her life living near or with her children.

She was a dedicated mother, a loving grandmother, and a loyal friend. Known for her steady strength and quick sense of humor, Jackie often joked that none of her sons were born with a preservation gene — and still managed to raise them all with patience, love, and resolve. Her home was always a warm and welcoming place. There was always an extra kid at the dinner table or one spending the night — and Jackie treated them like her own. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, devotion, and resilience.

Jackie will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her memory to a charity of your choice.

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.

Susie Smith, 86, passed away peacefully on July 12th in Mesa, Arizona. She had been in failing health for the last couple of years. Early on she was a doctor’s assistant and then became a housewife.

Susie led a very happy and active life, filled with family and friends, and many activities such as painting, sewing, bowling and she loved her swimming pool. She is survived by her husband Duane, daughter Roni and 2 grand children Jake and Jesi.

Susie was preceded in death by her parents, Bud & Mary Lochmiller, her sister Skip and brother Robbie.

Susie was named Karen Sue but went by Susie most of her life and most recently, she would introduce herself to new acquaintances as SusieQ. She was born in Des Moines, Iowa, raised in Carlisle and moved with Duane and Roni to Mesa, Arizona in 1978. They arrived there Easter Sunday morning at 2 AM and by that evening they had bought their house where she passed away 47 years later.

Susie enjoyed bowling until she was 81 years old. She and her husband were married 52 years and took 16 cruises during that time and also several trips to Las Vegas. She requested that her ashes be scattered on the mountains on the way to Las Vegas.

There may be a Memorial at a later date.

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.