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Hans Rudolf Louis Ringger was born in Zürich, Switzerland, on July 11, 1941, to Louis (Ludwig) Emil Ringger and Hilde Lore Sennhauser Ringger. “Hans-Rüdi” often shared experiences from his childhood in Switzerland, leading up to the family’s post-war emigration to the USA in 1948. His stories include attending Sunday School in the Zürich branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, rescuing his brother Peter from being skewered on a wrought iron fence, occasional blackouts during allied bombing raids on munitions factories, visiting his grandparents and great-grandmother (the first member of the family to join the Church), and babysitting (as a 7 year old) his sister Ursula and brothers Peter and Louis in a hotel in Paris during their journey to the USA. He treasured hand-written letters and hand-carved figures from his grandfather his entire life.

He learned English in the USA and was always grateful for the teacher who took the time to teach him one on one, which helped him to thrive and skip a grade. This started a lifelong love of learning. In high school he “flipped burgers” to save up to purchase his first car. He returned to Europe as a young man, serving as a missionary of the Church of Jesus Christ in the West German mission for two and a half years. His memories of those years included lingering rubble from WW2, public baths, horse meat, and a visit to his great aunts in Böblingen and his grandparents in Zürich.

Hans graduated with a degree in German and French literature at Brigham Young University and married Carolyn Pearce in 1967. Eric was born to them in Pittsburgh, PA, where Hans was working for US Steel. He returned to Utah to earn a Masters degree in mechanical engineering while working at Geneva Steel. The family was joined by Kevin, Kent, and Monica in Utah. Hans started working for Garrett Air Research in Phoenix in 1973, and the family followed him there in 1974. Hans Louis was born to the family in 1976.

Hans was committed to his family, his job designing gears for turbine engines at Garrett, and his service in the Church.  His job evolved into improving the quality of the manufacture of the gears he designed, concluding in retirement from Honeywell (the result of mergers and acquisitions) in 2006. He was a faithful home teacher, serial ward clerk, and long-time worker in the Mesa Temple. He took up cycling and completed multiple distance rides to Tucson. He was an avid gardener and learned to help his plants and fruit trees thrive despite the Arizona heat.  He endured cancer treatment in 1980 and lived the remainder of his life in remission.

Hans married Constance (Connie) Scott in 2000 and they were sealed in the Mesa, Arizona, Temple in 2005.  They took good care of each other until Hans suffered a stroke in early January this year, which culminated in his death on January 30, 2024.

Hans is preceded in death by his infant twin sister Ursula, his father, and his mother.  He is survived by his wife Connie, his second sister Ursula DeLeeuw (Dolan), brother Peter, brother Louis (Cheri), brother-in-law Wayne Scott (Dee), sister-in-law Patricia White (Justin Durand), brother-in-law Joseph Scott (Cindy), brother-in-law Richard Scott (Tina), son Eric (Kirsti), son Kevin (Laurie), son Kent (Krista), daughter Monica Bambrough (Blaine), and son Hans (Elin Isakson), step-son Scott Tiffany (Melinda), step-son Kristopher Tiffany (Susette Fletcher), step-daughter Karisa Budge (Sven), many grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren.

Hans was a one-of-a-kind personality, loved by those who knew him well.  He loved the Lord Jesus Christ and His restored Gospel, and he looked forward to a heavenly and eternal reunion with loved ones by virtue of the Lord’s promises in holy scripture and through modern prophets.

His funeral will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 9, 2024, in the chapel of the Mesa 60th Ward – his long-time neighborhood congregation – of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 2152 E Adobe St. in Mesa, Arizona. Visitation will take place 90 minutes prior to the funeral. He will be interred at the Mesa Cemetery.

In lieu of gifts or flowers, the family requests that donations be directed to the Humanitarian Aid Fund of the Church of Jesus Christ or to Doctors Without Borders, both of which do remarkable work to bless the lives of our sisters and brothers around the globe.

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.

You are invited to a Zoom webinar. When: Feb 12, 2024 10:30 AM Arizona Topic: Funeral Services for Kent Schvaneveldt Please click the link below to join the webinar: https://zoom.us/j/92404870078 Or One tap mobile :    +13462487799,,92404870078# US (Houston)    +16694449171,,92404870078# US

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kent Schvaneveldt, who left this world on January 31, 2024, after a brief but difficult battle with cancer. He was 66 years old.

Born on March 2, 1957, in Neuebrucke, Germany, Kent was a beloved son, brother, husband, dad, grandpa, and friend. This unsung hero touched the lives of many with his kindness compassion, and unwavering love.

Kent grew up in a military household and lived in many places around the world. He was an adventurous boy and sought out adventures every place he lived. He hiked across Taiwan, went to Scout Camp in the Philippines, and hiked the Appalachian Trail. He was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served a proselyting mission in Kobe, Japan, from ages 19-21. Kent married his high school sweetheart Lori on April 28, 1979. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Zoology from Brigham Young University and an MBA from the University of New Mexico. Following graduation, he decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and began a career in the Army to realize his dream of becoming a pilot. He earned his wings and flew both helicopters and airplanes, including the Scout, Huey, Mohawk, and C-12. He rose through the ranks, serving in many leadership positions, and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel after 23 years of service. He then dedicated his talents to the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) Boeing where he continued to serve the country up to his passing. Among his years at DCMA, he volunteered to serve overseas multiple times in Afghanistan, and—due to his cancer diagnosis—was forced to return from Germany this past November where he was helping with the Ukrainian war effort.

Kent’s true hobby was his work, but he also loved to fish and spend time in nature in his free time. He loved to travel and be with his family. His grandchildren were his world, and he made each of them feel so special. He had a great sense of humor, and you couldn’t help but feel uplifted whenever he was in the room.

He is survived by his wife Lori; children: Heidi (Scott) and Devin; grandchildren: Andin, Emmi, Cambria, Jake, Mara, and Vivienne; parents: Noel and Margaret Schvaneveldt; siblings: Cindy (Bruce), Scott (Denise), Lisa (Drew), Brent (Annette), Jay (Gina), Linda (Chris), Judy (Greg), and Jenifer (Mason); and a host of relatives and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Please join us in celebrating the life of Kent as we remember the joy he brought to our lives. He lived his life in the service of his country and his family. The memorial service will be held at 10:30am on February 12, 2024, at 48 Main Street in Snowflake, Arizona. Military Honors will be given at 12:00pm graveside at 390 South 4th Street West, immediately following the memorial service.

Not many people get to receive two sets of wings—his first set as a pilot in the Army and now his second as his soul has flown above to rest in eternal peace. May we find peace in the knowledge that he is no longer in pain and may the memories of his life bring comfort and strength to those who mourn his passing.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to World Central Kitchen in Kent’s honor. WCK is first to the frontlines, providing fresh meals in response to humanitarian, climate, and community crises. In the early months of the Ukraine invasion, WCK served millions of fresh meals to Ukrainian families fleeing home as well as people remaining in the country. Now, they are supporting frontline communities in eastern and southern Ukraine where the need for food is urgent: https://donate.wck.org/give/499865/#!/donation/checkout

“When we lose someone we love, we must learn not to live without them, but to live with the love they left behind.”—Unknown

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.

Nathel Davis, 87, passed away surrounded by loved ones on the evening of January 30, 2024. Nathel, born February 25, 1936, was the daughter of wonderful parents, Osborne Lester Hutchinson and Leola Done Hutchinson.  She had one sister, Patricia Burchfield, whom she adored.  Nathel was a darling girl who loved socializing, dancing and music.  She was a member of the student council and marching Rabettes drill team at Mesa High School.  She loved dances at the Mezona and learned to play the organ in the old Tabernacle on Temple Square.  Nathel graduated from Brigham Young University in 1957 with a degree in Secondary Education.  She accepted a position at Mesa High School teaching typing and shorthand.  She also attracted the eye of a certain drama and speech teacher, Jack Davis, who soon became her husband and the love of her life.  Nathel and Jack were married December 23, 1957 and had six children:  Stephanie Victoria Romney (Bill), Jeffrey Kent Davis (Lora), Eric Cameron Davis (Molly), Daren Troy Davis (Lindsay), Kyle Aaron Davis (deceased), and Heather Lynne Kelleher (Sean).  Nathel enjoyed 52 years of blissful marriage before her husband’s passing in August 2010.  Nathel is survived by 5 children, 23 grandchildren, and 33 great grandchildren.  We couldn’t have asked for a more dear mother and grandmother.  We miss her already.  Funeral services will be held at the LDS Chapel, 21320 S Greenfield Rd, Gilbert, AZ at 11am, Friday, February 9th, 2024.  Viewings will be held Thursday, February 8th, 6:30-8:30pm, and Friday, February 9th, 10-11am at the same location.

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.

Steven William Stine, 75, was born September 9, 1948 in Missoula, Montana and was called home Friday, January 26, 2024 at his home in Mesa, Arizona. There to greet him on the other side of the veil will be his parents, Carl and Betty Stine, along with many other family members. Left to carry on his legacy and traditions are his wife of 47 years Katherine “Ann”, and his six children: Jaime (Josh) Lyman, Kelly (Joe) Baker, Brooke (Mark) Groves, Megan (Joe) Liljenquist, Whitney (Chaz) Smith, Carly (Ross) Coelho and 15 grandchildren.  He is also survived by 4 siblings: Linda Herkins, Karen Castro, Jim Stine and Mark Stine. After 31 years of teaching and coaching (tennis and basketball) at Taylor Junior High, he retired to spend more time with family, enjoy life and to travel. He was a devoted husband, father and papa who was loved deeply by his wife, his 6 daughters and his grandchildren. Our fondest memories are of him boating on the lake with his family and friends. He also enjoyed adventure riding with his jeep or side by side. He was known as a hard worker all his life, always ready and willing to help one of his kids, a neighbor, or friends with anything they needed. He was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, never wavering, and enduring to the end.  The viewing will be Friday, February 16, at Bunker Funeral Home, 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa 85201 from 7-9 pm. Flowers can be sent to Bunker’s Funeral Home address, if you wish, for the viewing and funeral the next day. The memorial service will be Saturday, February 17, at the LDS Lehi Stake Center, 1430 N. Grand Mesa, 85201 from 10-11:15 am. Open House will be 5-8 pm at Steve and Ann’s home that same evening. Desserts will be provided and a chance to visit with Ann and the 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.

Betty Jean Anderson, 88, passed away peacefully at home in Mesa, Arizona on January 29, 2024. This was just days before her 89th birthday.

She is survived by her husband Roger and 11 of her 13 children. Her other two children were there to greet her on the other side.

Funeral services will be held at the LDS Chapel located at 11121 East Ray Road Mesa, Arizona 85212 on Monday, February 5, 2024 at 10 am.

Flowers can be sent Monday-Friday from 8:30 -5:00 pm to the Bunker University Chapel 3529 East University Drive, Mesa, Arizona 85213

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

Reynaldo Martinez Monteverde, 70, of Mesa, Arizona passed away at his home on January 19, 2024.

Rey was born in Phoenix, AZ, on January 22, 1953.  He lived his entire life in the Tempe/Mesa area.  He was a graduate of McClintock High School class of 1971.  He worked in the grocery industry in a variety of roles for most of his life.  Later he enjoyed working at Home Depot as a flooring specialist.  Rey loved his four children and grandchildren.  He also loved The Beatles and was a huge Arizona Cardinals fan.

Rey was preceded in death by his parents, Ramona and Henry Monteverde, adopted father, Jose Martinez, brothers, Jerry Monteverde, Albert Monteverde, and sister Margarita Monteverde.  He is survived by adopted mother, Constancia Martinez, his children Cassie Monteverde, Brianna Ivey, Ryan Monteverde and Austin Monteverde and his grandchildren, Cadiem Mangold, Adelaide Ivey, Lucinda Ivey and Tejas Verma, brothers, Joe Martinez, Raul Mori, Ismael Martinez, and sisters Toni Estrada-Quarles and Linda Reyes.

A memorial service is planned for Saturday, February 3rd at 11:00a.m. at Bunker Family Funeral home, 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ 85201.  Flowers, or memorial contributions to The National Kidney Foundation or The American Heart Association are welcome.

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.

Gloria Jean Manning, born July 31, 1941 in Kansas City, MO, passed peacefully on Jan. 24, 2024 in Mesa, AZ at the age of 82.  She was a devoted daughter, a beloved sister, dedicated aunt, loving cousin and dear friend to many.  Gloria never wanted to be the center of attention, feeling most comfortable in the background. Yet her bright smile and beautiful spirit always shined through.  She had a sharp mind, a quick wit and an uncanny ability to put people at complete ease with her unique charm.

Gloria spent the majority of her life in Kansas City, working as a meat carver at Putch’s for nearly 25 years, followed by a career in the grocery industry at Schnucks and Hy-Vee.  In 2010, she moved to Sun Lakes, AZ with her mother to be closer to immediate family.

She was an avid sports fan – whether it was basketball, baseball, football, tennis, golf, and so on, she would watch with great enthusiasm.  Her favorite teams were the Kansas City Chiefs, KU Jayhawks, Phoenix Suns, AZ Diamondbacks and AZ Cardinals.  Beyond sports, she loved trips to the casino, Christmas movies, and the show Heartland. In her mind, her diet consisted of one food group “ice cream”, and a food group she enjoyed often.

Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, Harriet Manning, Donald C. and Bernice Manning, sister-in-law, Sharon Manning, nephew Donald Manning and great-niece Brittani Manning.   Survived by her loving brother Wayne Manning, nieces and nephews David Manning (Kristie), Elizabeth Manning, Sheri Manning, Brandy Brooks, Del Brooks, 14 great & great-great nieces and nephews, and her cousins.

She will be missed more than she could ever know.

Services to be held this spring at the Johnson County Memorial Gardens, Overland Park, KS.  Further details will be posted @ https://www.johnsoncountychapel.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.

“Love is patient, love is kind” is the essence of our mother, Nola Rae Sirrine, who passed away peacefully on January 17, 2024 in Mesa, Arizona of natural causes at age 91. Her legacy includes six children: Dennis (Lizabeth Standage), Linda Hatch (Guy Hatch), Steven (Alisa Bernard), Michael (Pamela VanderHoeven), Diane Taylor (Brad Taylor), and Robert (Annette Lunt), 30 grandchildren, 73 great grandchildren and four great great grandchildren with another on the way!

Nola was born in Tucson (Binghamton) Arizona to Rose and Roy Elder on October 5, 1932, the second of four children: Jim (Carol Linford), Rena (John Hamlin) and Jan (Troy Nabors).

When the family moved to Mesa, Nola enjoyed twirling her rope in step with her dance team, the Mesa High School Rabbettes, at football games and rallies. Her sparkling smile and infectious laughter caught the eye of Gail Sirrine who was determined to make her his. He asked her for a dance at the town’s dance hall, the Mezona, and their beautiful love story began. They were soon married in the Mesa LDS temple on March 14, 1951 sealed for time and all eternity.

Together they worked to design and build custom homes and raise their family. Also they together opened Sirrine Del Camino nursery to enhance Gail’s landscaping business. This taught the children the value of work and commitment as the whole family could be seen at times watering plants and tending chores. Nola was well versed in the names of the plants and trees, where best to place them in the yard and how to care for them. Nola had a keen gift for design, color and balance. She decorated many custom homes and businesses in Mesa, California, Texas, and Utah.

However, her most important business was her family, and they always came first. Regardless of the family’s rigorous schedule, Nola made sure they sat down to a homemade dinner at 6 PM, then homework for the children, piano practicing, baths and bedtime. Now, with the house quiet, Nola could start her client’s next day schedule and outline. With every client she turned to the Lord in humble prayer for help to guide her thoughts, hands and designs.

Nola was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and accepted many callings. Her favorites were serving as Relief Society president of the 18th Ward and a mission with her husband, Gail, to restore the Heber C. Kimball home at the church’s historical site in Nauvoo, Illinois.

This endearing Bible verse aptly applies to our mom, “Her children rise up and call her blessed; And her husband also he praiseth her saying; Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all. “ Proverbs 31:28-29

We fully believe that, while our mother‘s time on earth is over, she continues on, no longer hampered by her weakened mortal body; now she can soar with her great energy as a beautiful wife and counselor alongside her husband in their journey through eternity.

We miss and love you, mom, but look forward to reuniting as a family on Resurrection Day; the gift Heavenly Father gave to all his children through his son, Jesus Christ. “ For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.”

1 Corinthians 15:22

Funeral services at Bunker’s Mortuary

33 North Centennial Way (formally Sirrine Street) on January 26, 2024

11:00 Viewing, 12:00 Funeral

Interment following at the Mesa Cemetery.

Special thanks to Marta and the staff at Extended Family Assisted Living Home for their loving care.

Brett Joseph Shanahan, 40, of Gilbert, Arizona, passed away on January 21, 2024.

Brett was born in Anchorage, Alaska on August 7, 1983 to Marlene (Greenewald) and Gerry Shanahan. Brett was a proud Alaskan, he was raised in Eagle River, Alaska along with his sister, Sam and attended Anchorage Christian School. This is where he met the love of his life, Sabrina (Brooks) Shanahan. Brett and Sabrina were married on May 12, 2007.

Brett joined the United States Marine Corps in 2008 and spent over 11-years active duty. During his time in service, he deployed twice to Afghanistan with Operation Enduring Freedom as a motor transport operator. Upon return from his deployments, Brett was hand picked to be the driver for the base General, Colonial and Sargeant major. He then spent 3-years overseas in Okinawa, Japan where he was a Chief of Operations in which he led over 80 Marines. He ended his service as a Drill Instructor on Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, where he trained over 2,000 recruits into Marines. Brett devoted his life and service to Mike Company, MMTTD. Brett was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, five times Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, two times Certificate of Commendations, two times Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, Navy Unit Commendation, three times Marine Crops Good Conduct Medal, two times NATO Medal – ISAF Afghanistan Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Drill Instructor Ribbon and three times Afghanistan Campaign Medal.

Brett and Sabrina welcomed twin boys, Brayden and Camden in 2011 and son, Asher in 2014. And most recently their family became complete with the birth of their daughter, Hadley in 2023.

Brett was a devoted and loving father. He loved the outdoors, motorsports, and fishing every summer throughout his childhood in Hoonah, Alaska, his happy place.

Brett is survived by his wife Sabrina and four children, Brayden, Camden, Asher, and Hadley. He is also survived by his parents, Marlene and Gerry Shanahan and his sister Sam (Gary) Martin. Uncle and father figure, Steve Brown and many other Aunts, Uncles and Cousins who loved him very much. Also survived by his in-laws Don and Cindy Brooks, sisters-in-law; Kristy (Alex) Clay, Jeannie (Matthew) Boschma, Amanda (David) Hebert and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his loving Aunt, Karlene Greenewald Brown and his devoted grandparents, Karl and Cecelia Greenewald and Edward and Kathleen Shanahan.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, January 29, 2024 at 10:00am at Christ Church, 1120 S Gilbert Road, Gilbert, Arizona 85296. A reception will follow immediately after the service.

Brett will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. May his memory be a source of comfort and strength during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, a GoFundMe page has been set up for Brett & Sabrina’s children; Brayden, Camden, Asher, and Hadley.

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.

If there is anything lovely, of good report, or praiseworthy- she sought after those things. Much more, she was those things.

Florence Marie Branson (named after her two aunts Florence and Marie) was born February 24th, 1936 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The oldest child of Jessie Lea Roberts and Melvin Earl Branson. Thirteen years later a baby sister- Billie Lea was born and became her real-life doll and truest joy.

Her family moved from place to place growing up but settled in the White Mountains of AZ, where she would meet and marry her sweetheart of 70 years.

Junior year in high school she was invited to go to a seminary class on the Book of Mormon, where she read it and gained a testimony it was true; two years later she was baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

In high school she was senior class president, as well as the Rodeo Queen. July 18, 1954, the summer after high school graduation she married her true love and high school sweetheart Blaine Slade.

Her young mothering years were spent both at work and at home. Some of those jobs include; secretary to the superintendent of Round Valley Schools, working at the county assessor’s office, and handling the bookkeeping of her husband’s enterprises. Her three children- Brant, Renae, and Barrett– being her greatest pride and joy.

In her later years she went back to school and graduated Summa Cum Laude from ASU. Later working at an interior design firm in Scottsdale, AZ and teaching interior design night classes at Mesa Community College. Always one for decorating, her house was never stagnant.

Her identity as a child of God was paramount as she spent many years as a temple worker in the Mesa temple. Having many callings of trust and responsibility in the church.

A community builder, personal historian, and voracious searcher for knowledge– a dedicated genealogist, leaving her posterity with many records, spending time researching and participating in family history work. Oh how she loved her family including 9 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. She loved to read them a story and often gave books as presents.

She read non-stop, anything and everything. The classics, the histories, the scriptures, and of course with a tall coke in her hands- filled to the brim with ice.

Her example gently led her family closer to Christ. She continues her work to coax us heavenward, whether in the divine music, art, or literature she loved while on earth, or through the peaceful spirit-filled home she modeled. She will be working heaven-side to bring us all back to our Savior together again.

“What must I do, Mother, what must I do to make a different world for her? How do I start?” “The secret lies in the reading and the writing. You are able to read. Every day you must read one page from some good book to your child. Every day this must be until the child learns to read. Then she must read every day, I know this is the secret.” ― Betty Smith, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn

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.

Our beloved husband, father and brother, Les Haynes, passed away January 14, 2024, at home with his wife by his side.

Les was a friend to everyone and had a way of making each person he encountered feel special.

He came from humble beginnings and worked hard to provide for his family and became successful in business. He had a generous nature and helped many without recognition.

Les is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, two loving sons and a precious daughter-in-law, five adoring grandchildren and two lovable great-grandchildren. He is also survived by three brothers and one sister.

Les lived his life fully to the end and will be loved and missed by all who knew him.

Beloved daughter and granddaughter

Beth Hickman was born in Rutland North Dakota to Bob & Lois Case on October 16, 1954. She was the eldest of five children & remained close with her siblings (Bobby, Stan, Carolyn, & Emerson) and their families.
She graduated from Morehead State University where she met & later married Ron Jaeb. Ron’s work took them to Montana & later Arizona. Ron & Beth had three children: Cole, Kyle, & Casey. They gained a bonus child, Zack, almost immediately upon arriving in Arizona. Ron died tragically when Casey was just an infant.
Ever a fighter, Beth returned to school to obtain an Arizona teaching certificate in order to provide for her family. She earned her masters of education from Arizona State University as a result. Soon after, she met Russ Hickman, the man that she would love for the rest of her days. Russ & Beth married and Russ adopted her children. Together they created a beautiful home.
Beth worked as a junior high resource teacher & touched the lives of countless students. Beth retired a few years ago & took on RV living. She & Russ made Picacho Peak their winter destination and traveled to ALL of the U.S. National Parks! She loved reading, knitting, puzzles, & bicycle riding. Most of all she loved her family & friends, especially her grandchildren: Amber, Joey, Troy, Page, Cloe, Jaeb, Everett, & Olive. Beth was a proud Norwegian & passed her love for lefsa onto her children and grandchildren.
Beth was intelligent, kind, fun, strong, independent, & outgoing. She enjoyed an amazing holiday season with her family. Russ & Beth spent Thanksgiving in Iowa with Cole & Kyle’s families and Christmas with family in Arizona. Beth fought hard as health issues took over. She even rallied with a broken arm & pelvis to spend one more day with her grandkids. While hospitalized her organs started to fail & ultimately took her life. She died peacefully on January 10, 2024. She will be immensely missed. She was Russ’ angel on earth & will always be his angel above.
A private memorial service was held in Gilbert, Arizona. Donations made in lieu of flowers will go to benefit education. Contributions can be sent directly to Russ via Zelle at russtherealtor@gmail.com or by check mailed to 514 Americas Way #14054 Box Elder SD 57719.

Trey D. Helquist, 23, died peacefully on January 3, 2024, on the Naval Base San Diego, California.

He was born to Charles L. Helquist Jr and Julee P. Helquist (Recker) in Chandler Regional Hospital, Arizona.

Trey grew up in the Mesa/Gold Canyon East Valley area, graduating from Imagine Preparatory in the class of 2019, and led a happy, active life with family and friends.  He also enjoyed other activities, such as travel, hiking (BSA Troop 219), music, books, snowboarding, and mountain biking.

Trey enlisted in the United States Navy on December 19, 2019, and graduated from Navy Recruit Training Command Great Lakes on February 14, 2020. He continued to serve on the USS Nimitz (CVN-68) during the Corona Cruise and returned safely home in April 2021. He was later promoted to Gunners Mate and then transferred to the USS Bunker Hill (CG-52), where he was involved in decommissioning the Bunker Hill missile cruiser.  Soon after, he moved to the amphibious USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26), where he was involved with Fleet Week and communication renovations.

Trey is survived by his mother, Julee, and Ben (Stepfather) Recker; his father, Charles L. Helquist Jr.; Brothers, Colby Helquist, Blake, and Jace Recker; grandfathers, Dan Plummer, Charles L. Helquist Sr, Bob Eck, Charlie Recker; grandmothers Carol Haws, Sandra Toniazzo, Debbie Eck and Stephanie Recker. Great Uncles and Aunts: David Plummer (Jody), Morgan (Mary), Denver Johnson (BJ), and William Moore. Uncles and Aunts: Dylan (Kelly), Ryan (Tina) Eck, Keith Helquist, Melissa Wasson, Toni George, and many cousins.

Preceded in death by grandmothers Jane Johnson Eck, Barabra A. Recker great aunt, Janice Johnson Moore, , and Uncle Shawn D. Helquist.

Trey will be very missed by all.  HOOYAH!

A memorial service will be held at Bunker’s University Chapel on Saturday, January 20th, 2024 at 10:00 AM. For those unable to attend in person, you will be able to view the service using this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l5aPelhviUE

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.

Jesus Ramon Camarena, Jr. 52 passed away on January 10th, 2024 in Gilbert, Arizona after a long battle with cancer.  Born January 22, 1971 in Fayetteville, North Carolina, he was a son of Jesus Sr. and Maria Emilia Camarena.

After graduating high school, he joined the U.S. Army and served with the 82nd Airborne Division as a paratrooper, where he was quickly promoted to sergeant and earned multiple awards.  From a young age, Jesus worked with his father at the family’s automotive garage in Mesa, AZ.

He was the oldest of four children and a devoted father of two sons.

Jesus will be remembered by always helping his family and friends before himself.  He was a son, brother, father and uncle that will be missed tremendously.

Jesus is preceded in death by his mother Maria Emilia Camarena.  He is survived by his father, Jesus R. Camarena Sr.; his sons, Dylan M. Camarena and Jesus R. Camarena III; his brothers, Luis Camarena and his wife Paula of Mesa, Arizona; Carlos Camarena and his wife Sheila of San Tan Valley, Arizona; his sister Stella Garibo and her husband Francisco of Mesa, Arizona.  He was an uncle to David Terrazas, Jacob Garcia, Thomas Garcia, Brianna Garibo, Gabriella Garibo, Adriana Garibo and Emma Camarena.  He was also a great uncle to Jonathon Garcia, Elijah Garcia and Luciana Garcia.

There will be a visitation for Jesus on January 22, 2024 between 10-11 am at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 N Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ 85201. The funeral mass will be January 22, 2024 at 11:30 am at Queen of Peace, 141 N MacDonald Mesa, AZ 85201. Burial will follow at the City of Mesa Cemetery, 1212 N Center St, Mesa, AZ 85201 at 1:00 pm.

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 dear angel mother Shirley Merrill White passed peacefully in her sleep at home on January 10, 2024. She was 94 years old.

Shirley was born on July 9,1929 in Safford Arizona to Vera (Allen) Merrill and Orson Clifford Merrill. As a child she moved around with her family until settling in Mesa during her high school years and attended Mesa High School. She was an example to all who knew her of Christlike love; always abounding in acts of charity and service to anyone in need.

She loved the outdoors and did a lot of camping and fishing. She also loved crocheting, knitting, music, serving in the Mesa Arizona Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, various church callings, and most especially spending time with her family.

Upon marrying her high school sweetheart, she was often found at many a sporting events, concerts, recitals, babysitting, and any event or opportunity that involved her husband or any of her children, grandchildren, or great grandchildren; and they kept her busy. She was greatly loved and often visited by her family and friends; and being a great cook, and the best apple pie maker, served as another reason for her family to frequent her home.

She is now welcomed home into the loving arms of her Savior, Jesus Christ. She is also greeted by her beloved husband Wilford “Whizzer” White, her parents Vera (Allen) and Clifford Merrill, brother Robert Merrill, daughters-in-law Jolynn and Michele, grandson Ryan, and many other loving family and friends.

She is survived by her sister Elaine Merrill Ellsworth (Lynn), her brother Richard Merrill, her children Wilford Daniel (Jolynn deceased) and Linda White, Teresa Lyn White Yetter (Rich), Tammy White Malone (Scott), Cristall White Hall (Mark), Michael Chad White (Michele deceased), 26 grandchildren and 78 great grandchildren.
Mother, God greatly blessed us when He gave us you; till we meet again, we love you!

Funeral Services:
Saturday, January 20,2024
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2424 N Old Gilbert Road, Mesa, Arizona
Visitation 9:00 am
Services 10 am
Interment Mesa City Cemetery, 11:30, 1212 N Center Street, 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.