Find An Obituary

Janette Rhoda Roberts Judd passed away peacefully on Sunday,  December 17, 2023. Janette was born to Carlyle and Anna Massa Roberts in Price, Utah on July 28, 1938. Janette’s family moved to the Valley of the Sun, settling in Mesa in 1952.

Janette attended Mesa High School, where she was a member of the famed Rabbettes, a marching, twirling, and roping group which inspired school spirit for the sports teams under the direction of Marjorie Entz. She loved her high school years and participated in many student activities.    

While attending a dance at the Mezona Auditorium and Dancehall, Janette met and fell in love with her eternal companion, Arlo Judd, a student at ASU. They were married in the Mesa, Arizona Temple on April 19, 1957. They soon added a son, Kevin, and daughters, Lori and Shelli. They enjoyed living in Mesa for over 65 years and were a fixture on Date Street for most of that time. 

Janette was an active and lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She was a devoted spouse, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was amazingly talented with her hands, crafting crocheted blankets and quilts for family and friends. She was an ardent supporter of Arlo when he was on the ballfield, in his professional life, and in church service. 

Janette was the “face” of Mesa Schools, being the main receptionist at the administration offices on Stapley Drive. She worked for Mesa Public Schools for over 30 years. When not working she could be found at sporting events and school activities supporting children, grandchildren, and even great grandchildren.

Janette is survived by her children Kevin (Lisa Everett), and daughters Lori Flake (Kent) and Shelli Delmoe (Telford), her brother Reed Roberts (Janie Franklin), 11 grandchildren, and 24 great grandchildren. Preceding her in death was her sweetheart, Arlo, her parents, and her twin sister, Janille Mullins. 

A visitation to celebrate Janette’s life will be held at Bunker’s Funeral Home, 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa, Tuesday, December 26, 2023, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. A graveside service will be held for Janette the following day, Wednesday, December 27, at the Mesa Cemetery, 1212 N. Center Street, Mesa, at 11:30 am.

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.

Sandra Zoe Johnson peacefully passed on December 1, 2023 at Hospice of the Valley in Phoenix Arizona after a brief and sudden illness. Services and burial will be at the National Memorial Cemetery spring of 2024, date to be announced.

Sandra was born on January 6, 1937 in Hazleton Iowa to Arthur and Irene Silka. She graduated from Hazleton High School and the University of Dubuque with a BS in Music Education. Sandra enjoyed her 30-year career teaching instrumental music to middle school and high school students in Bloomfield, West Liberty, and Fairfield Iowa. Her passion for music and teaching was reflected in the awards she received: Arion, Educator of the Year, and Teacher Tenure.

Bloomfield Iowa is where she began her teaching career, and it is also where she met her husband Frank Johnson. The two married on December 27, 1959, and remained in IA until they moved to Mesa Arizona in 2000 to enjoy their retirement years.

In addition to teaching, Sandra also shared her musical talents with the Baptist Church, the church was her sanctuary and she worshipped through music. She was the choir director for many years and she sang in a trio named Joy. The trio was very well received and they were invited to other churches throughout Iowa to perform.

For the past five years, Sandra resided at Morning Star Assisted Living in Phoenix AZ. She enjoyed her crafts, bingo, and field trips, but most of all she enjoyed playing bridge. She corralled a group of people into playing bridge with her regularly, and she was known to be a competitive, shrewd player. Sandra’s humor, sharp mind and loving heart allowed her to develop close friendships that she held dear.

Sandra is survived by her three children: Scott (Janine) and children Kayla, Ryan, Hannah, Alexis of Waverly Iowa; Suzie (Sheldon) Hannah and son Aaron of Independence Missouri; Sookie (Jeff) Meyers and daughters Tiana and Hali of Phoenix Arizona, she is survived by many nieces and nephews. Her husband Frank preceded her in death.

Memorials may be made to Operation Smile, https://www.operationsmile.org/ways-give, and Hospice of the Valley, https://hov.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.

Betty Bingham Butler, 91, peacefully passed away to be with her Lord and Savior on November 24th, 2023 in Mesa, Arizona.

Betty was born on November 29th, 1931 in Benson, Arizona to Lamar and Audrey Bingham. She lived out her childhood in Benson with her mother, father, sister, and brother. While in school, Betty participated in many sports including softball, tennis, and volleyball.

She married Lynn Edward Butler in 1950 living in Williams, Tempe, and Mesa. They had five children together, Dennis, Lynda, Dale, Gary, and Paul. Betty lived in their Mesa, Arizona house for about 65 years.

Betty is survived by her children Lynda (Tom), Dale (Mindy), Gary (Nancy), and Paul. She is also survived by her 5 grandchildren, Lynda’s daughters Lindsay and Leah, Gary’s children Audrey, Amber, and John.

For many years she worked in Accounts Payable for Mesa Public School. She enjoyed spending time volunteering as a “Deadheader” at Mesa Community College’s Rose Garden, participating in her church groups and watching sports. After moving into Legacy Retirement Residence of Mesa in 2021, she enjoyed working on puzzles with family, chatting with new friends and playing bingo.

Betty lived a long life and will be missed greatly by her family and friends. Donations to Hospice of the Valley are suggested.

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, brother, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather Irvin Gardner returned home peacefully on December 5, 2023 due to heart failure.

Irv was born to loving parents, Lamar Joseph Gardner and Helen Ila Russell, on November 9, 1937 in Salt Lake City, Utah. He grew up in the East Millcreek area close to many relatives who were descendants of early pioneer settlers. As the oldest of five siblings, he was a great example of hard work, valiant faith, and endless love from his early years through the end of his mortal journey.

Throughout his life, Irv continually showed a love for others. He always strived to do what was right. He excelled in school and was a natural leader in seminary and institute. He served an honorable mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Spanish American Mission. Irv developed a great love for all whom he served and worked with, maintaining relationships with many of them. He used the Spanish language throughout his life.

While in pursuit of his business degree at the University of Utah, Irv met and married Annette Hansen in 1961. They are the parents of five children who were raised in Salt Lake City, Utah. They have been greatly blessed by his love and example. They were later divorced, and Irv married his dear wife, Patricia Hedden, in 1987. In doing so, he added another four children whom he loved as his own.

As a young man, Irv worked with his father in the optical business. Shortly after finishing his degree, he took ownership of one of three Gardner Optical locations. He developed many friends and loyal patients who trusted him and his associates with fitting glasses and contact lenses. He was also a leader in state and national eyecare dispenser societies where his expertise was recognized.

Irv has always had a great love for the House of the Lord. He served as a veil worker and ordinance worker in the Salt Lake City Temple for almost four decades. After retirement, he and Pat served in the Lima Peru Temple for 18 months, and he served in the Mesa and Gilbert, Arizona temples for the past 25 years.

Irv and Pat have been blessed to live in the warmth of the Arizona sun since retiring. The warm climate has allowed him to master his botanical talents and grow and maintain all varieties of trees, shrubs, and other plants. They have made great friends with neighbors, church members, and everyone they have met. We will always admire his great love of learning and the kindness he showed others through his service.

Irv is survived by his loving wife Patricia, sister Evelyn Jacks, brother Scott Gardner, and brothers-in-law Robert Hedden and Vagn Gerlach, children Jeff (Sherrie) Gardner, Dan (Barb) Gardner, Julie (Gordon) Poulson, Jerilyn (David) Santos, Darin (Kristi) Gardner, Lori (David) Turner, Amy (Ron) DeLong, Jana (Bart) Catmull, Kent (Kae) Rasband, 41 grandchildren and 29 (and increasing) great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, sister Jeniel Gerlach, and brother Lorin Gardner.

Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Saturday, December 16th in the Gilbert 3rd Ward Chapel at 495 S Greenfield Road. Friends and family are invited to a short visitation from 10 am to 10:45 am preceding the funeral services. Interment will take place in the Mesa Cemetery. Bunker Family Funeral Home University Chapel will be assisting with funeral arrangements. Live streaming of the funeral will be available at https://youtube.com/live/OP8FLDpgMx8?feature=share

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.

The world changes year to year, our lives from day to day, but the love and memory of you shall never pass away. With broken hearts we say goodbye to our Loving Mother, Grandmother and Great-grandmother. Juanita Johnson Ellis was the loving spouse of Clarence. They shared 70 years of wedded bliss. Together they raised four children, Judy Chacon, Kenneth Ellis, Cheryl Wright, and Bryan Ellis. There are 9 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

You leave our hearts empty with your passing but full with your many memories.

Juanita was born in Sherman, Texas on December 21, 1934, she passed away December 12, 2023. Graveside Service to be held December 22, 2023at 11:30 am at City of Mesa Cemetery, 1212 N Center Mesa, AZ.

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 the deepest sadness and despair that we must announce the passing of our dear Kaley Renee Dostal.  We tragically lost our Kaley on November 27, 2023.  As the news of her passing spread, countless family, friends and coworkers reached out in sadness over her loss.  Our Kaley was loved far more than she could’ve imagined.

Kaley was born in Phoenix, Arizona on October 26, 1992.  She was cherished and loved from the moment she was born.  Kaley graduated from Sandra Day O’Connor High School and then worked toward her Associate’s Degree at Mesa Community College.  Kaley worked with the Mesa Police department as a “911 Operator” where she made numerous friends and helped many people in their times of need.  In addition to her Mesa job, Kaley got certified as a massage therapist and displayed her entrepreneur talents in helping to build, advertise and run a successful business.  Beyond her working career, Kaley had a very warm and close relationship with her siblings, Stephanie, Chelsea, Tyler and Kyle.  Kaley always brought a beautiful smile and infectious giggle to any family event or gathering of friends.

In remembrance of our Kaley, her father Tom wrote the following;

“A few of Kaley’s unique qualities that we all loved was her personality, honesty, curiosity, and genuine smile. She was very personable and could make friends with anyone. Kaley had a passion for helping people. Always putting other people’s needs ahead of her own. She was always ready with a kind word or an ear to listen.

Kaley loved the outdoors and had an adventurous side to her. It involved spending time pursuing hiking, taking on the toughest trails, camping, fishing, and horseback riding. She took many trips out of state to places like California, Iowa, Canada, and cruising to places like Panama, Costa Rica, and Mexico. She loved visiting her cousins that she thought were so cool.

We will remember you for being hard working, down to earth, sincere, and a great friend.

We will miss you.”

Kaley is survived by her mother JoAnn, father Tom, step-father Kim and siblings Stephanie, Chelsea, Tyler and Kyle.  In addition she has grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and numerous friends who all love and miss her.  We love and miss her so very much and have a hole in our hearts and lives that will never be filled again.  The family will be planning a memorial service for Kaley to be held at a later date which will be open to all who wish to pay their respects.

May you be at peace by God’s side Kaley, we love you with all our hearts and will miss you always.

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.

Elizabeth (Betty) Lynch 86 passed away peacefully on December 10, 2023, in Mesa, AZ.   Formerly of Hibbing, MN, she was a member of First Lutheran Church and was a volunteer at the Hibbing Senior Center, and the Mine View.  Betty enjoyed sewing and was very creative with various crafts.  If she saw a new idea, she would find out how to create it.  A true talent!

Betty is survived by her daughter, Marueen {Chris} Johnson, San Tan Valley, AZ, son, Michael {Mindy} Lynch, Jacksonville, IL sister, Sandra {Gary} Peterman, Queen Creek, AZ.  5 Grandchildren, 1 Great Granddaughter, and a niece and nephew.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, John J. and Sigrid S Johnson, husband, Mike F Lynch, son, Patrick G Lynch and brother, John W Johnson.

Private funeral arrangements are pending in Mesa, AZ

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 Johnston Lamoreaux, 83, Beloved Sister, Wife, Mother, Grandmother and Great-Grandmother, passed away peacefully on December 11, 2023. 

She was born on December 7, 1940, in Mesa, AZ to Dallas Dewitt Johnston and Clutha R Layton Johnston.  She married Chester Haws Lamoreaux on March 17, 1961, in the Mesa Arizona Temple.

Betty was a homemaker and known for her loving service to family and children. Early in her marriage, she began caring for children through LDS Social Services.  Over the years she cared for more than 300 infants and teens through the program.

She is survived by her three daughters: Joanna Best (Leonard) of Ohio, Sherri Kartchner (Scott), Karen Waite (Bryce) of Mesa; brother Carroll Johnston (Kelda) of Nevada; sister-in-law Maxine Johnston-White (Lonny) of Colorado; 11 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

She will be greatly missed by family and friends.

Funeral services will be held Monday, December 18, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Stake Center at 933 E Brown Rd. Mesa, AZ at 11:00 am.  A viewing will precede the services from 9:00 – 11:00 am.  Interment will be at the City of Mesa Cemetery.

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.

Mary Lou Duzett, 87, of Casa Grande, Arizona passed away on December 7, 2023 at Banner Desert Medical Center in Mesa, Arizona.  Mary Lou was born on August 9, 1936 in Idaho Falls, Idaho to Robert and Nellie Young.  Mary Lou was raised, and spent her youth in Castle Dale, Utah. She married her High School Sweetheart, Calvin Duzett, on September 28, 1955 in the LDS Temple at Manti, Utah. After a few years in Utah, and six years in El Paso, Texas, they lived most of their life together in Farmington, New Mexico, and the last 5 years in Casa Grande, Arizona.

Mary Lou was a woman of faith and spent a life of service to her family, community, and church.  She served as the President of the Junior Women’s Club of Farmington and taught piano to young students over many years.  She served in many leadership roles in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including Stake and Ward Relief Society President, Young Women President, and Primary President. Mary Lou was a talented musician and often served as music chairman, organist, or choir director for both the Ward and Stake.

Mary Lou loved to sew and was a talented seamstress.  She often made clothes for her children.  Reading was a favorite pastime.  She was also a talented cook and shared the fruits of her talent with others.

Mary Lou was a joyful individual who never met a stranger.  She made friends wherever she went and always had a smile and brought laughter to those around her. She went out of her way to make others feel welcome and important.

Mary Lou was preceded in death by her parents and her two brothers, Robert Bunnell Young and Clyde Young.  She is survived by her beloved spouse, her son Robert Calvin Duzett (Ann), her daughter Marsha Ashcroft, and daughter Michele Duzett; 11 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at the LDS meetinghouse at 165 W. 800 N. in Castle Dale, Utah at 1:00 pm Monday the 18th of December. After these services, a brief grave dedication service will precede Mary Lou’s burial at the Castle Dale cemetery. Funeral arrangements were made through Walker Funeral Home in Payson, Utah.

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.

Service time changed January 13, 2024 at 10:00 AM at LDS Stake Center, 1550 North Val Vista, Mesa, AZ

Jackie Andrus Jesperson, 87, died November 30, 2023 in Gilbert, AZ.  Born in Oakley, Idaho August 6^th, 1936 who was the only child of Willis and Rada Whittle.  Jackie graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Home and Family Living in 1958 at Utah State and taught Home Economics in several Mesa Public Schools.  Jackie was married to Von Del Andrus on August 1, 1958 (who passed in 1976) and then to Arlyn Leroy Jesperson on June 19, 1981.  Arlyn and Jackie served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in 2002/2003 in Charlotte, North Carolina.  Survivors include Kelli Sue Berube, Kaye Lynn Huish-Lisle, Lori Lane Choules, Del W Andrus and Jared Ray Andrus including 22 grand children and 17 great grandchildren.  Family was everything to Jackie and loved to be involved in all aspects of their lives.  We would often hear from those who interacted with Jackie that she was always up beat and kept a big smile on her face.  Jackie loved music and was a choir director starting in college up until this last year when she joyfully put on the Christmas program where she lived.  Since Jackie loved people and parties, her Celebration of Life will be held January 13, 2024 at 10:00 AM located at LDS Stake Center, 1550 North Val Vista, Mesa, AZ.

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.

Jack Arthur Burris of Gilbert, Arizona, formerly of Naperville, Illinois and Des Moines, Iowa died December 6, 2023. Jack was the eldest of five children of Ransom L. Burris and Julia Sedella Moore. After graduating high-school, Jack began attending Iowa State College, but put his plans on hold to return home and help his family out when his father fell ill. Jack did not give up his dream, however and graduated in 1985 from the renamed Iowa State University. In the fall of 2023, Jack returned to school to pursue a masters degree in history. He is survived by his daughter Heather Aileen Burris and son Jerome Andrew Burris. Jack is also survived by one brother, Frederick Anthony Burris and two sisters, Patricia Ann Tibbetts and Ginger Aileen Ahrens (Steve), as well as several nieces and nephews. Jack was preceded in death by parents, brother David Allen Burris, and his wife of 55 years, Lucy Ellen Burris (nee Blake). Interment will be in the Burris family plot in Iowa.

In Loving Memory of Bobby

Robert Howard Madsen, 69, was called home to God Dec. 1, 2023, at 4:54 a.m. after a multi-year battle with cancer. A brilliant performer, composer and a loving son, brother and uncle, Robert was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ and was faithful unto the end. Bobby was beloved by all who knew him, especially his family.

He is survived by his sister, Mary Ellen Robson (and brother-in-law, Jim), his older brother, Jared Madsen (and sister-in-law, Kathy), and his younger brother Richard Madsen, as well as dozens of adoring nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. His love, warmth, compassion and sense of humor made him a trusted confidant, first choice for a concert date, and best friend to each of us.

Robert was born Nov. 4, 1954, in Mesa, Arizona, the second son and third child of Russell and Marjorie Madsen. From a young age, Robert was blessed with great musical talent and phenomenal charisma. He attended Westwood High School and graduated in the Gold Medal Class of ’72, where he was a member of Elizabeth White’s Honor Choir and was “Buck” in the comedy singing group the Light Crust Dough Boys. He also started his own band, the 4 Alarm Fire, with Kevin Horne, Delwyn Ray and Wayne Salstrom. Later, he joined his brother-in-law’s band, the Family Waye, which included his sister, Mary Ellen Robson, Jim’s sisters, Loretta, Denna, and Roseanne, and several other members throughout the years.

Robert had perfect pitch. He sang and played the guitar, piano, and a little trumpet. He was a natural performer, which served him well as he traveled the country as part of the Family Waye band. After graduating high school and having a year of playing music on the road, Robert embarked on one of the great adventures of his life, a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a missionary to the Lima Peru Mission. On his mission he served and taught others about Jesus Christ, and he also learned Spanish, a language that he would speak and perform in throughout his life.

Robert spent a couple of semesters as a student at Brigham Young University. Then he embarked on a solo career of writing, recording and producing music in English, Spanish, and even Portuguese. Robert was a gifted songwriter who worked in many genres, including the rap song “I got Rich,” which features some of the greatest lyrics of all time: Money, money can’t buy happiness/But I think she wants to share my misery. His stage name, Bobby Sol, could not have been more fitting – Sol is the Spanish word for sun – because he brought sunshine to the lives of all who knew him. Robert wrote most of the music for the Gilbert Temple Celebration, and contributed to the writing of its script with Roseanne Tidwell, Jason Barney, and his brother Richard Madsen.

He sacrificed much for his parents and for the whole family. Robert was a dutiful and loving son who cared for his aged parents (Russ and Marge) for well over 20 years, helping them live to be 101 and 102 respectively. Robert was extremely close to his parents and his siblings. Robert’s devotion and kindness to family and others was like having daily sermons on the meaning of true, Christlike love. Robert showed us how to handle even life’s hardest challenges with grace and humor. Robert was really funny and clever. He often had others laughing until tears would appear. He performed for a few of his high school reunions and had the crowd howling with laughter.

Robert’s sense of style was ahead of its time, and he introduced many of his nieces and nephews to the glory of track pants and Adidas tennis shoes. Although a few nephews tried, no one could make a white sequined Elvis jumpsuit look as good as he did. While we will all honor his legacy in matters of style, we strive to follow him in matters of substance and in longsuffering. Robert contracted Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) at age 25, which caused him much physical and mental suffering until he died of cancer at age 69. He was an example of a pure heart. He patiently endured his sufferings while still keeping his faith and kindness. He was a shining product of the Refiner’s Fire.

A viewing to honor and remember Robert will be Saturday, Dec. 16, at 10:30 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:30 a.m. at 925 N. Harris Dr., Mesa, Arizona.

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.

Doris Arlene Helms, 93, peacefully passed away November 17, 2023, at Grace Manor of Arizona in Chandler.

Doris was born to John and Emma Baergen in Cordell, OK.  She attended school in Oklahoma and in 1947 married Alfred Schmidt.  They farmed the same farm that she was raised on and 3 children were born there.  In 1956 they decided to move off of the farm and out of Oklahoma eventually settling in Loveland, CO.

While living in Loveland, CO, Doris worked as a cook, cleaned unglazed pottery for Rocky Mountain Pottery Factory, and for 17 ½ years assembled instruments for Hewlett Packard.

In 1974 at the age of 43 she became a widow when Alfred passed away from injuries sustained in a car accident.  In 1977 she married Henry Helms, a widowed farmer originally from Nebraska.  With Henry came his 3 daughters and 4 sons which extended her family to a total of 10 kids.  Henry’s youngest son was 10 years old and the only one to live at home with them.  When they retired and the youngest son moved out to be on his own, they traveled many miles visiting family in their RV.  They became “snow birds” for a few winters before buying a house in Mesa, AZ and settling there permanently.  Henry passed away in 2013, at the age of 89.  They had been married almost 36 years.  A highlight for Doris was when our families were together for reunions and holiday dinners.  Her pecan pie and cherry cheese cake became favorites.

Doris enjoyed many hobbies including sewing, quilting, embroidery, making jewelry, and coloring books for grown-ups.  She was an active member of the Christ Greenfield Lutheran Church and enjoyed the friends she met there.

Doris was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers Edward and Alfred, sister Lorena Jantz, step-mother Agnes Baergen, step-sister Betty Plett, and step-sister Florence Moore.  She is survived by sister Carolyn (John) Penner, brother Gary Baergen, and children Mary Etta Belisle, Clayton Schmidt, Warren Schmidt, Linda (Richard) Twidwell, Jeanette Mares, Dale (Deb) Helms, Rhonda (Don) Ems, Kim (Joe) Helms, Ron (Priscilla) Helms, Brent (Denise) Helms, 22 grandchildren, 40 great grandchildren, and 2 great, great grandchildren.

A Memorial Service will take place at the Christ Greenfield Lutheran Church, Gilbert, AZ, January 20, 2024 at 10:00am.  Her ashes will be laid to rest at Resthaven Memory Gardens, Fort Collins, CO at a date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers you may make a donation in memory of Doris Helms to Christ Greenfield Lutheran Church, 425 N Greenfield Rd, Gilbert, AZ  85234.

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

John is survived by his parents – John and Connie Bunyard, his 6 siblings – Cassandra, Jacob, Joshua, Emilia, Josiah, and Elizabeth, and his grandparents – Frank Kovacs, Rose Griebel, Len Bunyard, and Shirley Mayer.

John lived a fulfilling life wherein he found joy in love, music, and the culinary arts. He shared his passion for music through being a DJ and hosting raves. He was also a master chef who loved expressing himself in the kitchen through the creative and delicious dishes he prepared.

John was a genuine soul who navigated life with authenticity while being unapologetic, curious, and fun-loving. His desire for peace, unity, and love were all reflected in his compassionate and caring nature. John left a positive impact on those around him and his love for his girlfriend, Ashtyn, was evident through his everyday choices. John and Ashtyn had many amazing experiences together and lived life to the fullest.

In this time of loss, it’s important to remember and celebrate John’s life by honoring him and the unique qualities that made him special to his family and friends. The legacy of John’s genuine and authentic approach to life will undoubtedly live on in our hearts and the hearts of all those who knew and loved him.

December 9, 2023 at 2pm for Johns celebration of life. Contact family if someone is interested in going. Thanks!

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.

Billiemae Lee, 91, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2023 in Gilbert, Arizona. She was born to Joseph Page Leavitt and Louise Nellie Nauta on October 29, 1932 in Los Angeles, California. Billiemae led a happy and productive life filled with family, friends, and many activities, such as painting, singing, and writing poetry. She married Glen Arthur Lee in 1949 and they were lucky enough to spend over 60 years together enjoying each other’s company as they camped, fished, sailed, and created a beautiful home, all while raising seven children. Billiemae is survived by her children, Michael Thomas Lee of Orlando, FL; Judith Ann Olin of Gilbert, AZ; Linda Carol Carrillo of Knoxville, TN; Deanna Mae Willey of Fairfield, CA; Patricia Louise Hurley of Littleton, CO; Robert Page Lee of Scappoose, OR; and Bethany Alice Egerton of Fond du Lac, WI. Billiemae was compassionate and always service minded. She was greatly loved and will be greatly missed. Graveside services are Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at City of Mesa Cemetery, Mesa, AZ.

Dr. Lot Delano Smith, age 89, passed away December 2, 2023, at his residence in Gilbert, Arizona. 

Lot was born June 1, 1934 in the home of his parents, James and Winnie Smith of Central, Arizona.   

Lot is a graduate of Thatcher High School, Eastern Arizona College, and he earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Degree at Colorado State University. 

He married Portia Karen O’Quinn, September 9, 1960 in the Mesa Arizona Temple. They recently celebrated their 63rd wedding anniversary. 

Lot was a successful Veterinarian working on both small and large animals. Lot loved serving in his community. He was President of Thatcher-Central Parent Teachers Association, Alumni President of EAC, President of the EAC Foundation, and Board Member at Thatcher Unified School District. 

Lot was a man of faith and served in several callings in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He served a 2 ½ year mission in Uruguay.  He served as Bishop of the Central Ward, First Counselor in the Thatcher Stake Presidency, and as a ward chorister with his wife Portia at the Organ.   

Lot is survived by his wife of 63 years, Portia Karen O’Quinn and his 5 children, Robb (Lisa) Smith, Heidi (Steve) Allred, Heather  (Mark) Howard, Ladd (Audra) Smith,  Nikki (Kevin)  McEuen and 18 beautiful Grandchildren and 22 Great-Grandchildren. 

Lot is the 9th of 10 children and was preceded in death by his parents James and Winnie Smith, siblings; Omer, Keith, Eldon, Kent, Max, Arvid, Dale, Fawn and Roger.   

Funeral services for Lot Delano Smith will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel on Friday, December 8, at 9 a.m. Address: 777 E. Elliot Rd. Gilbert, AZ. 85234 

Lot will return to his birthplace for his burial and resting place. A Dedicating the Grave will take place at the Central Arizona Cemetery, Friday, December 8, at 2 p.m.  

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.