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Nellie Johanna Davidson passed away on April 8, 2024 at 7:00 am in Mesa, Arizona.  She was born in Durango, Colorado on August 29, 1934.  She loved everyone!

Johanna was born to Harold Schaaf and Nellie Mae Hazer.  She was the oldest of six children.  She graduated from Durango High School.  She lived in Arizona from the age of 17.  She is the mother of Rod and Brad Smith. She has 15 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.

Johanna was married to Tom Davidson on  February 16, 1976.  They lived their married life together in Sedona, Payson and 40 years in Mesa.

When she was a teenager, she loved horses and competed in barrel racing.  She worked a few years for Motorola in Phoenix, had a successful Indian jewelry business in Provo, Utah, and had a Diet Center business in Sedona and Flagstaff.  She also managed a Diet Center in Mesa before retiring.

She and her husband, Tom, served church missions in Papua New Guinea, Australia, Russia, Arizona and Kentucky.

She loved serving people, and was loved by everyone because of her caring personality. Johanna had a deep love for the Savior, Jesus Christ.

Funeral services will be held on  Saturday, April 20, 2024

Viewing from 9:00 to 10:15 am

Service at 10:30 am

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

7752 E. McDowell Rd.

Mesa, AZ

 

Interment

National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona

Phoenix, AZ

Monday, April 22, 2024

 

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.

 

Gregory Jamal Hooks passed away at the age of 51.

Gregory or some know him as Jamal, was born to Gregory and Joan Hooks on June 9^th 1972 in Los Angeles California. Gregory was a very kind person with a gentle spirit. We would call him a gentle giant because he was so big and tall. He was a quiet and reserved person to a point but once people got to know him they would see his beautiful personality come through. Gregory was a very funny person. He had a sarcasm that would make people laugh. Gregory loved sports and especially football. He attended Culver city High School in California and was dubbed “Mr. Culver City”. He was considered one of the best athletes. He took all state in football, track and basketball. After high school, He played for Santa Monica College and later transferred to play with the University of Utah from 1992 to 1993 as a wide receiver. He made many friends at the U of U and had many frat brothers with the Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity. His studies were in criminal justice. After college Greg went on to be a youth corrections counselor for the Juvenile Justice system for the State of Utah. Greg loved kids and was great at being a positive mentor for troubled youth. Where ever Greg went he made a difference and people always remembered him. Greg loved his family whether immediate or the family that he gained through marriage to Krista Hooks. On June 20^th, 2019 Greg and Krista were blessed to adopt and become parents to a beautiful girl named Mylea Hooks. Greg always had a way of making her giggle with his humor and he was always so patient and kind with his daughter. He always made her feel safe and loved.  He called her his boo boo kitty. She will always hold love for Greg in her heart. Greg will be missed by many. He is survived by siblings Richard Ridgley, Yvette Ridgley, Damien Hooks (Toni). Also survived by his daughter Mylea Hooks. He is proceeded in death by his parents Gregory Hooks and Joan Hooks. Greg has many nieces and nephews through immediate family and through the Martinez family (Krista) that all love him very much. No matter what Greg, you will always be a part of the Martinez family. You are in Gods care now G-Wiz. Rest in paradise Greg. A memorial service will be held on Thursday May 30^th at 10:30 AM at Calvary Baptist Church 1090 South State Street, Salt Lake City, UT.

 

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.

Emily Patricia “Pat” Hansom (née Kerley), 77, passed away peacefully in her Phoenix, Arizona home, surrounded by her family on Monday, April 8, 2024. Pat was born in Dallas, TX, the eldest child of Ed and Frances Kerley’s three children. She spent her earliest years in the Dallas area near her large extended family. In 1955, her family relocated to Arizona, first to Yuma and then in the early 1960s, the family moved to North Phoenix where she would spend the rest of her life.

Pat graduated from Camelback High School in 1964. In 1967, she met her eternal companion Reginald Andrew “Andy” Hansom, Jr. She deeply loved and admired the Hansom family, and as a result of their love and example, she was converted and baptized into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints shortly before she and Andy were married on August 23, 1968. Patty and Andy were sealed in the Mesa Arizona Temple the following year.

Pat and Andy raised their five children in Phoenix, AZ. Patty was a successful entrepreneur. Her business, Hansom Costumes, made dancewear for studios around the Northwest Valley for over 20 years. She used her sewing skills to help support her family, but also to bless others and provide service in all her circles of influence, creating items of beauty and utility and teaching her skills to anyone willing to learn. She was not only a gifted seamstress but excelled at any artistic endeavor she set her mind to.

Pat was passionate about her family. This was manifest through her dedication to genealogy work. From the time of her baptism, she spent her life painstakingly searching for her ancestors to link them as part of her eternal family. Patty’s love for her family was best on display in the presence of her “spectacular” grandchildren; she celebrated each one for their individuality, and her place as their grandmother was her most cherished role.

Patty served in nearly every capacity available to her in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: a teacher to children, teens and adults, a family history advisor, and as the President of her congregation’s women’s organization. She impacted hundreds of people through her teaching and service. However, her greatest impact was within the walls of her own home, raising her children with love and faith, and caring for her disabled sister, Ann, with kindness and devotion. Over the years, her house was a welcoming home to many outside her immediate family, stretching to fit any need.

Pat is survived by her dear husband of 56 years, Andy, her five children Traci Arias (Tony), Jason Hansom (Bethany), Lindsey Peterson (Layne), Kierra Burns (Robert), and Joshua Hansom (Miranda), 20 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and her younger brother Jim Kerley. She is preceded in death by her parents, Ed and Frances Kerley, her parents-in-law Reg and Nell Hansom, and her younger sister Ann Kerley. The memory of her determination, loving service, and pursuit of the things that brought her joy will carry her loved ones through the immense loss felt by all.

Funeral services for Pat will be held on Saturday, April 20, 2024 at 11:00 AM, with visitation one hour prior at the Country Gables Ward Chapel of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 15018 N. 39th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85053. The concluding service and interment will take place at 2:00 P.M. at The City of Mesa Cemetery, 1212 N. Center Street in Mesa, Arizona. Arrangements are being cared for by Bunker Family Funerals in Mesa, AZ. The family wishes to express immense gratitude to Hospice of the Valley for the tender care they provided during Patty’s final months.

 

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.

Autumn Janssen, 61, passed away on April 2, 2024, with her family by her side. She was born in Riverside, CA, and as a daughter of an U.S. Air Force career officer, lived in North Carolina, California, Hawaii, Nevada, and Arizona. She met and married her husband of nearly 25 years, Timothy (TJ), in Prescott, AZ in July 1998.

Autumn has said it herself, but she was made to be a mother. She loved her husband, two daughters, and dogs more than anything in the world. She was a loyal friend that anyone could rely on and gave the best advice. She created the best home cooked meals and would always help out a person in need.

She is survived by her husband, Timothy; daughters, Sydney Janssen and Shelby Janssen; and sister, Ashley Claxon.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to any of the charities below:

• Big Mutt Network (where she adopted her beloved dog, Sampson)
• Any Veterans Charity (in support and respect of her father)
• Planned Parenthood (to advocate for a woman’s right to choose)
• A Local Volleyball Team (her favorite sport and where she enjoyed watching her daughters play)

Services will be held:

Sunday, May 19, 2024 @ 11:45am

The Grove

7010 S 27th Ave

Phoenix, AZ 85041

 

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.

 

In loving memory of Merlin Dean Gindlesperger

May 5, 1931 to March 21, 2024, and eternity,

Merlin  joined his wife of 71 years, Bessie Gindlesperger, and their son, Mark Gindlesperger along with many other loved ones in the heavenly realms.  Upon this earthly realm to be joined at a later date, he left his brothers; Homer, Ronald and Barry. He also left 5 of his children and their spouses; Helen Christine Wilson and husband Doug, Bonny Walters and husband Arthur,  Brian Gindlesperger, Terri Hepperly and husband Michael, Paula Langton and husband David.  He also left the earthly realm with 11 grandchildren 15 great grandchildren, and 2 great great grandchildren.

Merlin was an avid follower and believer in Jesus Christ and always strived to follow the will of God. He loved his family and friends dearly and that love was and is returned.

He fervently and consistently prayed for each and every family member and friend by name.

He was a jack of all trades and a master of many; never afraid of getting his hands dirty. Merlin was  continually a student, a teacher, a preacher, a missionary, a spiritual leader, a philanthropist, a spinner of tales, a tourist, a tourist guide, a baker, a counselor, a musician, a singer, a composer, a music enthusiast, a reader, an author, a beacon of light, and the list goes on and on.  He lived more in one lifetime than can only be imagined.

As we bid farewell to this earthly chapter, let us remember Merlin as a man who walked in faith, leaving footprints of Grace, Mercy, and Love. May his legacy continue to inspire us to live purposely, love unconditionally, and seek God’s presence continually  in our lives.

Blessed be the name of the Lord!

AMEN!!!

Funeral services will be broadcasted at: https://youtube.com/live/_B3UzgdqnGg?feature=share

Jeffrey James Pickles passed away April 6, 2024 at his home in Mesa, Arizona surrounded by his family.  He was born April 19, 1940 in Nelson, Lancashire England, the son of James and Ivy Pickles.  His family relocated to Taber, Alberta Canada in October 1954 and then in 1960 Jeff served a 2 year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in South Africa.  He later attended Brigham Young University where he met his eternal sweetheart Linda and was married in August 1964.  It was noticed and said by many that he treated her like a queen.  Upon graduation, Jeff and Linda moved to Los Angeles, California where he began his banking career, being part of the first team to travel the state introducing Mastercard to merchants.  During that same time Jeff began serving in the first of 5 LDS bishoprics, creating a legacy of lifetime service, fueled by his love of the Lord.  A move to Scottsdale in 1971 established them firmly in Arizona and soon found them in Mesa where they raised their family of six children.  Soon after moving to Arizona he became a US citizen and became passionate about his love of country.  His other passions included family, fishing, camping and the ASU Sun Devils.  He enjoyed working in the Boy Scouts and, having a special affinity for the youth, served in his church working with youth from early on all the way up to young single adults.  He served on the High Council for his church and both he and Linda served as Church Service Missionaries in the Tempe LDS Institute and later in the Mesa LDS temple, cementing church service as the moving force in his life.

Jeff is survived by his wife of 59 years, Linda, and their six children Julie Alyce Butler (Delvin), Robert James Pickles (Jennifer), Jeffrey Boyd Pickles (Jill), Stacie Lynne Pickles, David Marc Pickles (Kristine), and Melinda Anne Brower (Stephen) as well as 16 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, brothers Carl Pickles and Derrick Pickles and brothers-in-law Darrell Jensen (Norma) and Brent Jensen (Kathy), all of whom he treasured and loved dearly.  He was preceded in death by his parents James and Ivy and a sister Brenda Henline.  There will be a viewing Friday April 12^th from 6-8pm at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ 85201.  Funeral services will be Saturday April 13^th at Mesa Central Stake Center, 925 N. Harris Dr., Mesa AZ 85203 with a viewing from 9-10am with the funeral commencing at 10am.  Interment will be held at the Mesa City Cemetery following the services.  Funeral services will be broadcasted at https://youtube.com/live/_B3UzgdqnGg?feature=share.

 

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.

Blanca Margarita Montiel was born in San Miguel, El Salvador on July 20th, 1949 to Luis Tevez and Emilia Molina.

Her home for the last eight years was in Arizona, most recently in Mesa and she passed from this life on April 7th, 2024 in Gilbert, Arizona.

Blanca was a devoted mother who blessed her home with love and gentleness.  Her children were raised knowing she would move heaven and earth for them; she was there to support and encourage them all through their lives. The gift of such a loving upbringing shows in the warmth and kindness of her children.

Friends are welcome to join Blanca’s family in honoring her on Monday, April 15th, 2024. Services are listed above.

 

 

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.

 

Kristian Elmgren, age 85, of Mesa passed away Friday, April 5, 2024.  Kris was born on May 30, 1938 in Helsinki, Finland to Brita Schroderus and Hans Elmgren.  He was the oldest of four sons.

After the family immigrated to Toronto, Canada in 1957, Kris met and married his first wife, Paula Anderson in 1962 and they had two children, Gregor and Ingrid.  After they were divorced in 1977, Kris married Barbara Socha in 1979, his wife of 44 years.

Kris worked in the retail industry, first as a Canadian chain store buyer and then as a manufacturer’s sales rep to Canadian and US chain stores.

Kris and Barbara immigrated to the United States in 1994, eventually arriving in Mesa in 2009 where his daughter, Ingrid’s family and her mother, Paula, were already living.  Kris considered himself lucky to be somewhere he never expected to be with the most important people in his life.

He always loved gardening, adjusting from Northern cold climates with their daffodils and rhododendrons to semi-tropical Florida and finally to the desert where he learned how to propagate cactus.  The plants he left behind will be a constant reminder of him.

Kris lost his young son Gregor to an untimely death and is also preceded in death by two of his brothers, Kai and Kim.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara Socha; his daughter Ingrid DiRusso (Robert); their children, his grandchildren, Timothy DiRusso (Shannon O’Toole) and Allanah Silvestro (Kenny); and a younger brother, Ken Elmgren (Sue) and their son, Will.

Kris’ ashes will be scattered in Fulford, Quebec, Canada where his parents lived their last years and where they and his son are buried.

There will be a celebration of his life by his family and friends on his birthday, May 30^th.

 

 

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.

 

Sharon Beryl Porter Glasgow passed peacefully on April 6, 2024 in Gilbert AZ at the age of 85.  She was born on August 8, 1938 in Prescott, AZ to Evan and Inez Porter.  She was the 4^th child and had 2 older brothers and 1 sister.  She loved to hunt for turquoise in the train tracks near their home and watch the parades from the top of the Courthouse steps.  At the age of 6 her family moved to Tucson. Her mom and dad made their home out of adobe bricks that they made.  The children stomped the straw into the mud to help out.  After building 3 or 4 adobe homes, living in them and selling them, they settled in the Binghampton area of Tucson.  She made lifelong friends there. They played in the desert gullies and chased jackrabbits, played games and listened to programs on the radio.  She loved the rodeo and Roy Roger movies.  Two more brothers joined the family in Tucson. Her first job was at the Drug Store making sandwiches and Sundaes. She loved secretarial and music classes in school and graduated from Tucson High in 1956.  Their family then moved to Mesa.

She met Harold Glasgow at Stake Conference. They dated for 24 days, got engaged and were married on November 16, 1956 in the Mesa Temple.  They lived in Mesa, Tempe, Gilbert and then on Jarvis Street in Mesa.  They raised 6 children – Lori, Lona, Lane, Laird, Lathe, and Lexine.  They also had 2 Navajo foster daughters, RoseMary Allen and Sylvia Laughter.  Mom made most of our clothes, made bread every Thursday, taught many kids piano lessons in Gilbert and Mesa, and was the organist for many years in the 9^th Ward of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  She was a lifelong member and held many callings at church, including – RS President, Primary President, Spiritual Living Teacher in RS, and her favorite – Den Mother in Cub Scouts.  We walked to church as a family and had homemade ice cream on Sunday nights.  She took music classes at MCC when all her kids were in school.  She loved being in The Arizona Mormon Choir for many years.  Mom & Dad always had home improvement projects going on in the home.  Mom was thrilled when they were able to buy the Pierce’s baby grand piano!

Mom and Dad went to North Carolina to take care of Grandma after all their kids were married.  They were there for 11 years.  They served in the Washington DC Temple 2 days a week for 3 ½ years. Dad served as Bishop for over 4 years.  Mom served in the Raleigh North Carolina Temple for 5 years.  After returning to Mesa they served in the Mesa Temple for almost 2 years.  They sold their home on Jarvis and bought a mobile home in The Glenn in the same ward.  Mom and Dad served a mission in Louisville Kentucky for 9 months.  Shortly after returning Dad passed away on December 28, 2007.

Sharon served 2 service missions at the ROC, doing family history indexing at The Inter Stake Center.  She quilted humanitarian quilts once a week with the RS sisters in her ward, kept a garden, loved to read, attended the temple weekly and loved to gather with her family for Sunday dinners. She lived with Lona & Dennis for a year, then Lori, then settled at Serenade Assisted Living in Gilbert.  She loved living there with her friend Joyce Petersen, being in the ward choir, going to activities and the temple.  She dearly loved her Savior.

Sharon is preceded in death by her husband, Harold Glasgow; parents, Evan & Inez Porter; brother, Dwain Porter; sister, Verdaun Tompkinson; brother Doran Porter; and foster daughters, RoseMary Allen and Sylvia Laughter.    She is survived by her brothers, Daryl Porter (Larysa) and Dale Porter (Jana), daughters Lori Lawlor (Stanley), Lona Johnson (Dennis), Lexine Severtson (Toby), and sons Lane, Laird (Kristina), and Lathe (DeeDee).  She has 40 grandchildren and 79 great grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be held Saturday, April 20, 2024 at 12:00pm at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints building at 977 E. Broadway Rd., Mesa, with a visitation beginning one hour prior. For those unable to attend there is a link to live stream the event: https://zoom.us/j/93266445678

Interment will be held at the Mountain View Memorial Gardens at 7900 E. Main St., Mesa, after the services.

Arrangements through Bunker Funeral Services.

 

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.

 

Audrey Keen, age 81, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully in her home in Mesa, Arizona on April 4th, 2024.

Audrey was born on February 8th, 1943 in Denlow, Missouri, to her father Herman Williams, and mother Ellen Sellars. She was one of five children: Steve Williams, Ben Sellars, Julie Brown, and Norma Jarrett.

Audrey had two beautiful children, Paul Kent Tucker Sr., and Whitney Martinez. Shortly after having her kids, she moved from Missouri to Arizona. She worked for numerous years at Hexcel, and then later in life kept busy by working at Fry’s. She retired at the age of 70.

In addition to her children, she had six grandsons and two step granddaughters who she loved deeply: Paul Kent Tucker Jr., Matthew Tucker, Edward Martinez Jr., Christopher Martinez, David Martinez, Joseph Martinez, Michelle Campbell, and Vanessa Callender. She was also a great grandmother to five!

Audrey lived a very happy life filled with her family, friends, neighbors, dogs, and her favorite activities. Any time you called Audrey, she would tell you that her dogs were sitting right on her lap and she enjoyed relaxing on her front patio with them. She was always being generous and gifting blankets she had sewn, quilts she had found from her favorite store JoAnns, or exciting finds she scored at the thrift store.  Audrey often spoke about Missouri and how it was her favorite place. She beamed talking about those she loved and was always ready to extend her home to anyone who needed it. She will be missed immensely by all.

 

Per Audrey’s request, her ashes will be laid to rest in Missouri, at a later date. Details to follow.

 

 

 

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.

 

Elsa Marie Morris, age 93, was called home on March 13, 2024.  She joins her husband of 25 years, Rex Morris; her sister, Barb Knudsen; and her parents.

Born to Agda and Nels Knudsen, Elsa grew up on a farm near the western coast of Michigan with her two younger sisters, Barb and Jenny.  She attended small country schools through 7th grade, walking the 1 ½ to 2 ½ miles, then riding a bus to the schools in town through her senior year of high school.  Summers were spent helping dad with farm work until late afternoon, followed by a hike to one of the nearby lakes for a daily swim.

At 15, Elsa knew she was called to be a missionary.  After graduating from high school, she spent the next nine years in preparation – first at Bible School, then nurses training, and then getting practical experience working in a local hospital. In 1957, Elsa moved to India and the recently established teaching hospital in Tezpur, Assam:  Baptist Christian Hospital.  The next 22 years were happily spent teaching and working as a registered midwife, all while meeting – and working alongside – many wonderful people and absorbing the Assam culture she grew to love.

In 1979, amidst a backlash against Christian foreign workers, American missionaries were declared persona non grata by the Indian government, so Elsa returned to the US – and to college – while working full time at a hospital in Grand Rapids.

In 1982, Elsa started praying about finding a husband and – through a family member who was a mutual acquaintance – began corresponding with Rex, a retired pastor from Colorado whose wife had passed away three years earlier.  They married in June of 1984, surrounded and supported by her sisters, along with Rex’s four children and their families.  Settling in western Colorado, Elsa continued to work for 15 more years at the local hospital – with occasional trips she and Rex took to visit their families and interesting places around the world.   Retirement brought them to Mesa, Arizona in 2008.

Elsa will be remembered for her constant smile, sunny disposition and generous spirit – for her faith in people and abiding love for the Savior she served.

Elsa is survived by her sister, Genevieve (Don) Veldt of Rockford, Michigan.  She has been a wonderful second Mom and a blessing to 4 children, 9 grandchildren, and 6 great‐grandchildren, along with 10 extended‐family spouses.

Services for Elsa will be April 20, 2024 at 10:30am at Journey of Grace Church, 955 E University Drive, Mesa, AZ  85203. The Reverend Kurtis Strunk will be officiating.

Elsa will be interred at Cedaredge Cemetery in Cedaredge, CO.

 

 

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.

 

Charles “Charlie” Leroy Hoover, age 75, of Mesa passed away Thursday, March 28th, 2024 at his home.

Charlie was born in Orangeburg, South Carolina on October 31, 1948 to the late Woodrow Wilson Hoover and Edna Eunice Hoover. He graduated from Orangeburg High School in 1968.

After moving to Arizona in 1969, he married Carol Stratman in 1971 until her untimely death in 1972. He married Deanne Whiting in 1974, his wife of 49 years.

Charlie spent 42 years in the grocery industry while simultaneously working for the Arizona Republic Newspaper for 25 years until his retirement in 2011.

Charlie was a jack of all trades and loved to grow and tend to a garden in his backyard every year. He was genuine, a hard worker, and often helped anyone in need. A kid at heart, he loved to play jokes, tell tall tales, and whether it was frontwards or backwards, he enjoyed riding his bicycle. You could often find him taking drives in his truck or relaxing in a chair listening to music. More than anything, he loved his family, always putting their needs first. Charlie is loved by so many and will be missed.

Charlie is survived by his wife Deanne Hoover of Mesa; children, Shelley Valdivieso (Marc), Jeremy Hoover, Zachary Hoover (Tia), Woodrow Hoover (Clint), Charles Hoover, and Katy Flaherty (John). Siblings: Michael Hoover, Mary Peters (Walt), Carol Thomas (Charlie) and 8 grandchildren. Charlie is preceded by his parents, first wife Carol Hoover, siblings John Hoover and Rebecca “Becky” Bradham.

 

The family will welcome guests for a celebration of life for Charlie Hoover on Thursday, April 11th, 2024 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm, and funeral on Friday, April 12th, 2024 at 10:00am, both held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints located at 1266 S 32nd St, Mesa, AZ, 85204.

In lieu of Flowers, please donate to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Humanitarian Fund: Humanitarian Relief | Philanthropies (churchofjesuschrist.org)

 

 

 

 

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

MaryAnn Lucas Hoopes, aged 83, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Tuesday, March 26, 2024 in Snowflake, Arizona. The 5th of 11 children, she was born on December 24, 1940 in Jacksonville, Florida to John Patrick and Tressie Mae Smith Lucas. She graduated from Jackson High School and then married in 1962, eventually moving to Arizona, where all four of her children were raised. She was a loyal employee for the Gilbert Public School District for many years and enjoyed working at the high school as an attendance clerk. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, she loved being able to serve two missions, one in San Diego, CA and one in Des Moines, Iowa. She loved pretty things and collected porcelain dolls for most of her life, which brought her much happiness. She was well-known for her amazing talents in the kitchen and made and decorated countless wedding cakes for friends, family, and people in the community. She especially loved to cook and bake for her loved ones. Her family and her faith in Jesus Christ were the two most important things to her and were what brought her the most joy in her life. She will be truly missed. She is survived by her children, Michelle (Steven) Menlove, Blaine (Cami) Hoopes, Monica (Michael) Olson, and Vance (Jennifer) Hoopes, 12 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and siblings, Dolly and Diane. She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings, Vernon, LaVerne, Shirley, Freddy, LaMar, James, Lester, and Baby. She will be laid to rest in Hardage-Giddins Greenlawn Cemetery located at 4300 Beach Blvd. in Jacksonville, Florida near her parents on Saturday, April 6, 2024 at 10:00 am.

There will be a viewing Monday, April 1, 2024 at 3:00 pm at Bunker’s University Chapel, 3529 E University Drive, Mesa, AZ 85213. The first hour is open to the public the second hour is just for family.

 

 

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 deep sorrow and love that we mourn the passing of Jaime Rachelle Otter, who left us peacefully surrounded by loved ones on the morning of March 21, 2024, at the age of 45.

Jaime was born on August 27, 1978, in Mesa, Arizona to Randy and Sue Effhauser. She grew up in a lively household with her sister Danielle, where they forged an everlasting bond and were their parents’ little “dynamic duo”. She graduated from Mountain View High School in 1996 and later went on to study nursing and business administration— passions that would define her resilience, adaptability, and kind-hearted nature throughout her life.

In 2002, Jaime married her longtime friend and sweetheart, Jeffrey Otter. Together they embarked on a journey of love, adventure, and companionship for 22 beautiful years. They raised three wonderful children: Abigail, Blake and Ava, instilling in them the values of kindness, perseverance and diligence. Jaime and Jeffrey also taught their kids to find moments to laugh and not stress the little things.

Jaime’s career expanded across several avenues broadening her knowledge in various areas of life. She dedicated many years to The City of Mesa in the Engineering Public Relations Department, which then led to managing her father Randy’s company, Effhauser Plumbing, for five and a half years. Jaime eventually returned to The City of Mesa where she was a Marketing Communications Specialist for six more years before diverting her focus to Public Outreach and HR responsibilities with new companies. Her work ethic paired with her vibrant “larger than life” personality, made the workspace a fun environment for all.

Jaime’s interests extended beyond her professional life. She loved to cook and was always looking for new recipes to whip up for her family and friends. She was also an avid lover of crafts, especially making jewelry. Her joy was most evident in time spent with her children and family— a testament to how she was raised and her belief in quality time and familial bonds.

Jaime is survived by her three children, who made up the entirety of her world, Abigail (Michael) Strauss, Blake, and Ava. Along with her children and husband Jeffrey, Jaime is survived by her parents, Randy and Sue Effhauser, her sister Danielle, Brother-in-law Bryan, and several nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, many friends and honorary parents, Jack & Velma Tidwell.

The Otter and Effhauser families wish to extend their heartfelt thanks to family members, friends, caregivers, and staff at Hospice of the Valley for their loving care and support during Jaime’s final days.

Jaime’s legacy will live on through the stories she shared and the countless lives she touched. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her radiant smile, her “Grandma Rose side-eye”, and the unconditional love she gave to all who knew her.

For those wishing to send condolences or share memories, please contact the Otter and Effhauser families through Bunker Family Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of the Valley at Donate (hov.org)

 

A celebration of Jaime’s life will begin with a viewing on Monday, April 1, 2024, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Bunker Family Funeral Home. Subsequently, there will be a funeral service held at Christ the King Catholic Church on April 2, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., with the interment to follow at Green Acres Cemetery. Those who aren’t able to physically attend, can live stream the funeral service. Further details and link are listed below.

 

Viewing

Monday April 1st 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.

Bunker Family Funeral Home ~ Garden Chapel

33 Centennial Way

Mesa, AZ 85201

 

Mass

Tuesday April 2nd 10:00 a.m.

Christ the King Catholic Church

1551 E. Dana Ave.

Mesa, AZ 85204

 

Live Stream Link:

https://youtube.com/live/bxQu2SbkhY8?feature=share

 

Interment

Following Mass

Green Acres Cemetery

401 N. Hayden Rd.

Scottsdale, AZ 85257

 

 

 

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.

 

Barbara Ann Storey, age 67, Mesa, AZ, passed away suddenly on March 22, 2024, in her home. Barbara (Barbie) was born in Hartford, CT and grew up in Enfield. She moved to Arizona more than 45 years ago. Barbara retired from Microsemi Corp. She graduated from Fermi High School in Enfield, CT.

Barbara was predeceased by her parents, William E. and Janet L. Storey. Barbara is survived by her brother, William E. Storey, spouse Sally, children, Brenda, William, Andrew, and Shannon. Her Sister, Angela Sanchez, spouse Juan, children, John, Ulani and Maria. Her sister, Judy L. Storey and sister, Yvonne M. Foley, spouse, Patrick, children, Megan, Sarah and Ryan. Her extended Arizona family predeceased Lloyd W. Gauld Sr. Barb’s companion and survived by his family, Margee & Glen Damiani, Tammy J. Gauld-Bush, Suzanne R. Kritenberg, Joe R. Gauld. And the extended family who called her Auntie Barbie; Tyler Bush, Robert Bush, Rochelle Lockhart, Anthony Damiani, Angelina Bush, Candace Damiani, D’Angelo Bush (deceased), Daniel Bush, Sabreena Erickson, Andy Erickson, Gianna Damiani, Marissa Gauld, Jasmine Gauld, Aiden Damiani and many nieces and nephews.

Barbara grew up in Enfield, Connecticut but loved living in Mesa, Arizona.  She enjoyed crafting, crocheting Christmas stockings and teaching family how to crochet.  She gave many stockings as gifts to family and friends. Barbara was also an avid reader and enjoyed audio books.  Barbie loved spending time with her Arizona family and always talked about all of them to her Connecticut family. Barb and her companion Llyod had a passion collecting and selling precious gems and stones and making jewelry.  The Arizona family members have loving memories of their time with both Barbie and Lloyd at gem fairs and scouting for stones. Barbara (Barbie) was well loved and will be greatly missed by her family.

A small Celebration of life will be held in both Arizona and Connecticut by the family.  Donations can be made to your charity of 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.

Alyssa Danielle Esparza age 32, daughter of Chris and Pat Esparza, went to the Lord on March 21, 2024.  She was born in Mesa, AZ.

Alyssa had a passion for reading, cooking, watching movies, and enjoying her coffee with her beloved cat, Punkz.  Alyssa’s priority was being a great role model for her younger sisters, always putting their needs first before her own. Her physical, mental and emotional strength was an inspiration to everyone she met.  Alyssa traveled extensively both domestically and internationally.  Her favorite tradition was spending summers on the dog beach in Coronado, California.  Her journeys to major European cities were one of the highlights of her traveling experiences.

Alyssa is survived by her parents Chris and Pat Esparza (Stepfather Steve Marciano); her sisters Victoria Watts (Jacob), Christina Esparza, Olivia Esparza and Yesenia Rojas; Niece Josephine Watts and many aunts, uncles, cousins and close friends.  She is predeceased by her Grandfather Jesus Aguero and Grandmother Unni Esparza.

Funeral Services will be held Thursday, March 28, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Bunker Funeral Home Garden Chapel, 33 North Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ 85201.

 

 

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.