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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.
- Wall Builders: https://wallbuilders.givingfuel.com/donate
- First Liberty Institute: https://firstliberty.org/donation/support-first-liberty-main/
- 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.
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.
Lana Kay Kerbs Orme left this world on her own terms – July 17, 2025.
She was born to John and Joyce Kerbs on March 27, 1961 in Burley, Idaho. She is the oldest of 6 children raised primarily in Draper, Utah around horses and cowboys.
She was quiet and shy by nature, but managed the courage to be a mat-maid (wrestling cheerleader), and went on to become Homecoming Queen. She had plenty a suitors.
Her parents unexpectedly passed away in a private plane accident when she was 19 years old. The youngest sibling was 7. So, their normal, simple life became anything but normal and much more complicated.
Lana served a mission to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ in Ecuador when she was 21. Though the living conditions were more difficult than she was used to, she fell in love with the land and its people. She has been back a few times and, because she considers that her happy place, had recently planned an extended stay to test the waters of life as an expatriate. But for health reasons she couldn’t make the trip.
She met Rob Orme at Brigham Young University in 1985, and they married the following year. After graduation, they moved to Arizona – first Gilbert, then Mesa. They were blessed with three children: Trevor, Weston and Bridget.
Lana was, by occupation, a school teacher – mostly elementary age, but would occasionally dare to enter the Jr high arena. She was a conscientious teacher, and always had an opinion on the politics of the education system. As her children came along, Lana would take a break from teaching, but always went back – eventually slowing down to substitute, and ultimately retire last year.
She was a great mom! Loving, comforting, teaching, supporting and encouraging her kids. And she rather enjoyed defending her cubs in ferocious mama-bear fashion from time to time. She was little-league mom, dance mom, band mom, and much to her kids chagrin – occasionally karaoke mom.
Lana grew up listening to country music, but in later years loved listening to Josh Groben, Celine Dione, Celtic Women, and Freddie Mercury to name a few from her eclectic playlist.
Lana’s taste in entertainment changed over the years – most recently she loved watching SNL skits, certain scenes from certain movies like Lord of the Rings, and of all things – Turkish Soap Operas.
Lana loved fashion. She always dreamed of being a purchasing agent in the fashion industry — traveling the world to find exotic treasures. She loved clothes, shoes, hats, scarves, jewelry, and anything else that helped her express herself. She said she didn’t like being the center of attention, but she actually did.
Lana loved massages, manicures, pedicures, and trying new hair styles.
Lana was very generous. She loved giving gifts and donating to anyone in need.
Most of all, Lana loved Jesus Christ and embodied His gospel by giving attention to those who were least attended to. She gravitated toward, and befriended those who felt different, out of place, or misunderstood. She had astounding empathy — able to tap into the feelings of those who were struggling and provide relief, comfort and encouragement. This was both her superpower and her kryptonite. She lifted the spirits of those with whom she spoke, but it was as if she absorbed their sorrows to the detriment of her own health. She felt this was somehow her calling, her purpose.
Lana was preceded to the other side of the veil by her parents, Jack and Joyce, and her sister, Leesa.
She is survived by her husband, Rob; her children – Trevor (Brianna), Weston (Ericka) and Bridget (Jay Jorgensen); grandchildren – Evelee, Lila, Hudson, Darcie, Sophia, Blair, Tanner, Jillian, Jack and Henry; and her dear siblings – Lynette (Willis Clyde), Alan, Eric (Tiffany), and Lori (Edwin Clements) – all of whom she is so very proud.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 02, 2025 at 10:00 am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints – 2228 E. Brown Road, Mesa, AZ 85213. The service will be live streamed via Zoom. If unable to attend, please contact a family member for the link.
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.
Sylvia Jane Thomas McAleavy, our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2025, surrounded by her loving family, at the age of 79. She was born on May 18, 1946, in Findlay, Ohio, to Herbert and Elizabeth Thomas.
Sylvia grew up in a very musical family, performing with her sisters in a quartet. Throughout her life, she became an accomplished pianist and organist. She was a graduate of Lima Senior High School, where she was a cheerleader, played the flute in concert and marching bands, and served as President of Cygnets, a synchronized swimming group. Sylvia continued her education at The Ohio State University, earning her Bachelor’s degree. At OSU, she was President of the Tri Delta collegiate sorority and the first person to serve two consecutive terms as a National Field Secretary for the sorority. Her leadership extended to the “Block O” cheer section at OSU, where she was instrumental in relocating the section to a strategic position in the Horseshoe Stadium to cheer on her beloved Buckeye football team.
In 1971, Sylvia met Tom McAleavy, and they were married at the Air Force Academy Chapel on July 14, 1973, recently celebrating 52 wonderful years together. They were later sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake City Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Sylvia and Tom made their homes in Colorado, Ohio, Maryland, Texas, Utah, and finally Arizona. They were blessed with three children: Heather Elizabeth (Berkeley), Sean Thomas (Lyssa), and Kristen Jane (Kelly), and 13 grandchildren, all of whom she cherished as their number one supporter at their events and activities.
A devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Sylvia found immense joy in serving in various callings, including three service and military relations missions alongside her husband. She frequently served as the Ward organist and Primary Pianist throughout her life. She particularly loved her Stake & Ward callings leading Young Women and Primary.
Sylvia was a proud American and a strong supporter of the armed forces. She was a true leader and gifted teacher, embodying strong will, determination, and an ability to influence others. Sylvia was spirited in all she did and always touched everyone she encountered, never meeting a stranger. She had a way of making everyone feel welcome and special. Known to many as a passionate, loyal, and diehard Ohio State Buckeye fan, her enthusiasm was infectious.
Sylvia was also deeply blessed with a large extended family, including her three sisters, Carol Miller (Steve), Joyce Bulger, and Gloria Rowell (Bill), six nieces and nephews, cousins, and many “adoptive” family members, including foster children and sponsoring midshipmen. She was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Elizabeth Thomas.
The family would like to thank Hospice of the Valley for the tremendous care Sylvia received in the final weeks of her life.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 9:30 -11:00 am PST, followed by a memorial service at 11:30 am PST at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, located at 8161 S Power Rd, Queen Creek. All are invited to attend.
Sossaman Estates Ward is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting for those unable to attend in person:
https://zoom.us/j/97989105687?pwd=F3mfdwrrO3b3ojyOvBKIQFE1tUAyfI.1
Meeting ID: 979 8910 5687
Passcode: 555759
This Zoom meeting will start on Saturday, August 2nd at 11:30 am Pacific time.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to an organization Sylvia believed in – Tunnel to Towers (t2t.org/donate/).
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.
Bertha Tressie Hulvey, 90, of Mesa, Arizona (formerly of Peoria, IL) passed away on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at her home.
Bertha was born on January 29, 1935 in Almena, KS to Irwin Donald and Hazel Viola (Vahle) Grunert. She married Walter Stacy Hulvey on July 6, 1958 in Princeville, IL and they enjoyed 65 years of marriage together until Walt’s passing on September 14, 2023.
Surviving are her two daughters, Lynne Hulvey and Patricia (Jason) Lantz of Mesa, AZ; one granddaughter, Stacy Lantz of Mesa, AZ; two step-grandchildren, Cailey (Kyle) Dierking of Washington, IL and Spencer Lantz of Morton, IL; nephew, Bill (Carla) Carter of Chandler, AZ; and niece, Ann Reed of Mesa, AZ.
Bertha graduated from Princeville High School. After high school, she worked at various businesses in Peoria until marrying Walt and starting their family. She managed their home and family and supported Walt in his work, basketball, volleyball, and tennis endeavors. Bertha enjoyed spending time with her sister, Carol, and her family. She enjoyed entertaining their circle of family and friends and watching her granddaughter during the summers when Stacy was growing up.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Bunker Family Funerals & Cremation in Mesa, AZ with private family gathering.
Memorial contributions may be made to the St Jude Midwest Affiliate through Children’s Hospital of Illinois | OSF Healthcare (https://x.osfhealthcare.org/foundation/give/children/choi) designating Children’s Hospital of Illinois Pediatric Oncology or by check to St Jude Midwest Affiliate at OSF HealthCare/St Jude Clinic, 530 NE Glen Oak Ave, Peoria, IL 61637.
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.
David Neil Gorevin, age 67 of Mesa, Arizona, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025.
David was born on December 19th, 1957 in Oxnard, California to Claude and Shirley Gorevin. He is survived by Janet, his loving wife of 25 years, children; DJ, Justin (Cami), Patrick (Lindi), Shane (Mattie), Sarah (Josh) and Laura (Shane), his 17 grandchildren and his sisters Jeanette Fulmer and Valerie Gorevin.
Dave, an Electrical Engineer, was known for his vast knowledge of anything that had to do with technology, woodworking, and HAM radios. Dave had a passion for cooking, spending time with his grandchildren and listening to beautiful music. He enjoyed serving as security for the Easter Pageant at the Mesa Temple. Dave and his wife spent many years traveling the country for his work and also visiting family and many historical sites.
Dave will be remembered by his humor, generosity, his ability to make people laugh, his attention to detail and his vast knowledge of everything.
The viewing will be held Monday, July 28th from 6:00-8:00pm
Bunker Family Funeral
33 N. Centennial Way
Mesa, Arizona 85201
Funeral services will be held on July 29th at 10:00am at the LDS church building located at
2228 E. Brown rd
Mesa, Arizona 85213
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