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Bradley Morgan Young, born November 11, 1957, passed away peacefully at home in his sleep the morning of Wednesday April 12. He is survived by his wife Pamela, children Adam, Lance, Dallin, Adrienne, Jacob, and 23 grandchildren. He and Pamela were married 42 years; married March 5, 1981 in the Mesa Temple for time and all eternity.  Brad was known by many as being an honest, kind, hardworking individual.  He was a skilled craftsman/cabinetmaker, and took pride in making sure his customers were happy with his work.  He enjoyed spending time with his friends and family, especially riding four wheelers at the dunes.  He was a dedicated Husband, father, and grandfather, always striving to bring joy to his family.  Brad honored his parents, and loved his brothers and sisters.  He was a true disciple of Jesus Christ, dedicated to callings in his church, finding joy in the service of others, and striving to live as his Savior did.  He will be missed by all.

Funeral services are Tuesday April 18, 2023 at 11 AM, preceded by a viewing at 10 AM, at the Mountain View Stake Center – 1550 N Val Vista Dr. Mesa, AZ 85213

You may join the funeral service via this link:  Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82899461518?pwd=TWU4Y1NpWDNyTEF1K1hqOWF6cUw2Zz09
Meeting ID: 828 9946 1518
Passcode: 763317

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.

Christine Marie Spinazzola, age 80, of Mesa, Arizona passed away on April 12, 2023 after a prolonged illness. She had a full life and will be deeply missed by all those who knew her. Christine was born on July 4th, 1942 to Camille and Chester Wroblewski in Detroit, Michigan. After graduating from St. Regional all girls catholic school she married the love of her life, Fredrick Joseph Spinazzola on July 4th, 1959 at the age of 17.  They were married for nearly 64 years.

Christine and Fred moved to the suburbs of Detroit to Romeo Michigan where they had four children and she is survived by them, Teresa Marie Ramey (Ronnie Dunn), Faye Anne Rys, Anthony Joseph Spinazzola (Barbara Ann Spinazzola) and Sheri Lynn Spinazzola (Ande Cogsdill).  She was blessed with six granddaughters, Shawna Marie Bush  (Cricket Pearson), Sierra Nicole Spinazzola (Brandon Wright), Caitlyn Delaney Spinazzola, Jessica Wright, Kate Ritzert (Ryan), and Elizabeth Hoag.  She had four great grandchildren,  Maddie, Maya, Max and Ramona. Also survived by her brother Richard Wroblewski (Kathy) and sister Sue Ulbrich (Steve).

Christine enjoyed living on their farm raising their children and also breeding, training and racing thoroughbreds. She loved watching the baby horses be born and staying up all night waiting for them to arrive.  It was very exciting for her when the horses would win and she’d end up in the winner’s circle.   She said these were the favorite years of her life.  She relocated with her husband to Phoenix, Arizona in 1985 where they purchased a beautiful home in Mesa and she lived the remaining years of her life.

Christine loved to spend time in San Diego next to the beach watching the waves with a cup of hot tea and lemon in her hand.  She loved going to concerts, watching tennis and always loved shopping, especially finding great deals.  She could shop for hours and hours.  You could call her a shopaholic.  She adored her yorkie, Munchkin, who was her shadow everywhere she went, they are now reunited.  She enjoyed traveling, especially to Italy, a once in a lifetime trip, thanks to her son Anthony.  She even attended Mass at the Vatican with her daughter Sheri.  A dream come true for her.

She loved her grandchildren so much and was very proud of all their accomplishments.  She was grateful to watch them grow up and build close relationships with them. She took in her granddaughter Shawna at the age of 12 and raised her as her own creating an inseparable bond for life.  She’d always said “it’s me and you kid”.  She took pride in the achievement of her granddaughter Sierra who graduated with a BS in physiology and was recently accepted to a Master’s program in the same field.  Also, for her granddaughter Caitlyn graduating with a BS in physiology.  Both graduating from the University of Arizona.  She adored her daughter-in-law Barbara who she developed a close relationship with through the last 26 years.  She was grateful for the love and delicious dinners Barbara cooked throughout the last 17 months of her illness.  She always said that if her son didn’t marry her, she would’ve adopted her. She was very grateful to have such a charming son-in-law, Ande, who she loved very much.  She loved his charisma, his jokes and all the music he’d play for her.  She especially loved his thoughtfulness and generosity.

She loved reading, crossword puzzles, playing cards and dining out with friends and family.    But most of all, she loved her family with all her heart and would do anything for any of them no matter what the ask.  She was definitely the glue of the family and there will always be a void now that she’s gone.

Christine was a very caring, sweet, kind, and generous person.  Anyone who had the honor of meeting her instantly loved her.  There was something about the light that she shined that was contagious to those around her.  She was the strongest person we were all so lucky and blessed to have in our lives.  She went through a lot in life and was a fighter like no other person.  She wouldn’t complain through the severe back pain she endured for nearly 60 years due to a botched surgery.  She is pain free, at peace and with her angels now.

Services will be held at St. Bridget Catholic Church on 4/20/23 at 10am PST.

2213 N. Lindsay Road, Mesa, AZ  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 information.

Jean LaMar Thomas Beam, 97 years, passed away on 26 March 2023 in Mesa, Arizona.  Jeanne was the daughter of Burke Reese and Gertrude (Collett) Thomas, born 27 May 1925 in Salt Lake City, Utah.  When she was in high school, she found a letter written by her father to her sister spelling her name as “Jeanne” which she adopted for the rest of her life.   Jeanne was a daughter of pioneers and found that her life mirrored theirs as she moved across many miles many times in her married life and started over at each new place.

Jeanne’s father died of tuberculosis when she was only three years old.  This initiated her widowed mother, Gertrude, to move in with her parents in Holiday to help raise her four young children.  Jeanne and her sister, Nancy, lived on the main floor sleeping with Grandma Collett one week and then with Mom the next week.  The boys and Grandpa Collett slept downstairs.

While growing up, Jeanne’s older brother, Don, palled around with the red-headed boy down the street for years whose name was Charles (Red) Alexander Beam Jr.  After being away from home for a while serving in the US Navy, Red returned from World War II to find Jeanne had grown up to become a beautiful woman.  They were soon married and sealed together for all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple on 11 November, 1945.

Red decided that he would dedicate his life to service in the US Navy.  This started Jeanne’s adventures of moving many miles away from family and friends, birthing four children while living all over the Pacific islands, including Okinawa, Japan and living several places in California. Jeanne viewed these many years as a Navy wife and mother
as a grand adventure.  She found a lot of fulfillment in music, playing card games, sewing clothes for her family, serving in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, doing genealogy research, and dabbling in various crafts.  Because Red went into the infant computer industry in 1961, after serving 20 years in the Navy, Jeanne became computer literate and remained so the rest of her life which was very unusual for a woman of her generation.

Jeanne was the caregiver for her mother-in-law, Nellie Beam, for 17 years and was Red’s caregiver for many years as he was slowly consumed by emphysema.  Jeanne always served her family lovingly and faithfully.  Jeanne was also very charming and anyone who met her would remark to her family about what a wonderful person she was.

Jeanne is preceded in death by her only son Thomas Alexander Beam, her one sister Nancy (Douglas Edward) Schwartz; two brothers, Burke Reuben (Carol Jacobson) Thomas, and Donald Collett (Beth Young) Thomas.  She is survived by three daughters, Charlene (Jerry) O’Rourke, Diane Marie (Steve) Garten, and Geraldine Ellen (Kent Hayden) Beam, 12 grandchildren, many great grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Jeanne was actively involved in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints until her death.  She held many responsible positions in the Church throughout her life but her love was music and choir.  She was a loving, loyal, and faithful daughter, sister, wife and mother who loved the Lord and served Him until her death. She will be missed by her family and friends.

The family will be holding a virtual Zoom memorial service on 22 April, 2023 at 10 a.m. PDT.  Jeanne will be cremated and her ashes will be buried next to her husband in Idaho Falls, Idaho at a future date.

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

Jack G. Fugere, 76, passed away on March 29, 2023, in a Mesa, AZ hospital.  He was born in Bottineau, ND, the fourth child of eight children of Leo and Doris Fugere.  He graduated from Bottineau High School and attended college at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks.  After 3 years of college, he enlisted in the army and served in Germany for 3 years.  After his discharge, he returned to UND to complete his degree in accounting.  He worked as an auditor for the US Government, auditing Army bases, until his retirement in 2001.  During this time, he was stationed in Germany twice for a total of 8 years.  He enjoyed traveling around Europe for his job.  He convinced his parents to travel to Germany, and Jack and a friend took them on a 2-week tour of Europe.  After his retirement, Jack moved into a Senior Retirement Community in Mesa, AZ where he was very active in the activities of the community.  He served as treasurer for many years.

Jack is survived by his brothers, Richard of Casper, WY, and Michael of Mesa, AZ, and his sisters, Myrna of Prescott Valley, AZ, and Anna Dean of Glendale, AZ, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Keith and sisters Lona Jean Aho and Linda Rae Wheeler.

His funeral mass will be held at 10 AM on Monday, May 1 at All Saints Catholic Church in Mesa, AZ with burial at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona at 2:30 PM on the same day.  Donations may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice in Jack’s name.

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 Schade, born in Gallatin, Missouri, daughter of Clem and Evah Dilley, departed this life on March 31, 2023. Betty was a loving spouse, mother, grandmother, and friend, and she has left behind a legacy of kindness, and so many memories of her laughter and beautiful smiles. Betty has gone to be reunited with her husband, Herald Schade, whom she yearned to be with and whose company she now has the privilege of enjoying. Betty was beloved by all those who knew her. She touched so many lives with her tender heart, sense of humor, and willingness to give anything to help her family and friends in any way. She loved them all dearly. Betty frequently told stories of her upbringing on a farm, tales of her chickens, her mother and siblings, and her pet racoon. Her family and siblings always held a prominent place in her heart. Betty had a way of making all feel a part of her family, and in the words of a dear friend, mom “was one of the most beautiful people God put on this earth” as a parent to so many.

Having moved to Phoenix as a young lady, Betty met and was befriended by a circle of friends who would ever be by her side throughout her life and to the very end. Betty was baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, where she met her husband and enjoyed a full life with him, becoming the parents of two children and 5 grandchildren, who all mean the world and the eternities to her. Betty was always kind and went out of her way to love and support her children and grandchildren. She loved them all dearly and there was nothing more precious to her than them. Betty’s whole life revolved around family and friends, and she touched the hearts of so many. Her friends would often find her joking and she had a knack for making people smile. It is hard to describe how much love she expressed and gave to all with whom she came in contact. She loved people and always seemed to be comfortable around others and made them feel welcome and befriended around her. Betty will truly be missed as we are left without her loving smile, laughter, and humorous interactions, but she has been reunited with her love, something she so desperately yearned for. Most of all we will miss all the love she bestowed on us and the simple pleasures of her companionship. Thank you, mom, for your gentleness, loving kindness, and for always making us feel loved. We will truly miss you until we meet again. Until that time, we will do all we can to remember you through the kindness we extend to others, just as you always did.

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.

Lynn Brent Horne

April 1941 – April 2023

Brent Horne of Mesa, Arizona recently passed away in his home surrounded by family. Brent was born in Hollywood, CA to Merlin and Greta Horne. Brent was the oldest of six brothers. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Leland Horne. He is survived by his wife, Geneva, and four children: Deron (Diane), Darrell, Dustin (Mindy), Kristen (Cody), 17 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. Brent graduated from Mesa High School (1959) and graduated from ASU with a Bachelor in Accounting. He married Geneva on November 5, 1966 in the Mesa Arizona Temple. Brent loved to work and started work at an early age and continued to work as a CPA until he was 79 and finally retired from the family CPA business, Horne & Company, which he loved.

Brent was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He loved to do genealogy work and listen to his wife play the organ in various church meetings for most of their married life.

A visitation for family and friends will be: Thursday, April 13 at 6:00pm -8:00pm at the Citrus Heights Stake Center at 2549 N 32nd St, Mesa, AZ 85213.

Graveside service: Friday, April 14 at 11:30am at Taylor AZ Cemetery at 400 Center Street, Taylor, AZ 85939

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.

Robert Thomas Bassler (Bob), beloved Dad, Papa, Brother, Uncle, Father-in-law and friend passed away in his home in Mesa, AZ on April 2, 2023, at the age of 88. He was surrounded by his family and friends.

He is survived by his son Grant Bassler and wife Fonda, daughter Paige Courrier and husband Tim along with grandkids; Leandra Courrier, Daniel Courrier and Cole Bassler, and sisters Linda Masi and Kathy Thomas as well as several nieces and nephews.

Bob was born on March 12, 1935, in Norwalk, CT to George and Alice Bassler. After being a successful real estate agent in CT he packed up his family and moved to Mesa, AZ in July 1978 to take advantage of the better climate for the love of his life Marjorie Bassler who was battling MS at the time. Marjorie passed away in October 1990.

Bob was known for his fun spirit, jokes, being the head of the Mesa Poli”t”e Department, an amazing rose grower which he shared with all. His legacy will continue to inspire and motivate all who knew him, and he will be cherished in our memories forever!

Services to be held on Friday April 14th at Bunker Funeral Home Garden Chapel; 33 N. Centennial Way Mesa from 10:30-11:30, followed by his burial at Mesa Cemetery on Center and Brown in Mesa. Celebration of life lunch will be at 2pm at Baja Joe’s 1927 N. Gilbert Rd. in Mesa.

In lieu of flowers you may donate to Hospice of the Valley https://www.hov.org/donate/

He was certainly a one-of-a-kind individual and will forever be missed by all who were lucky enough to cross his path.

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.

Corine Faison Harris age 94 passed away peacefully at her home in Gilbert, Arizona on Tuesday, March 14, 2023, with family by her bedside.  She was born November 29, 1928, in Camden, Alabama to Boss Faison, Sr. and Mamie (McNeil) Faison.

At an early age, Corine began her Christian journey at St. John Baptist Church in Camden, AL. She attended school at Camden Academy in Camden and Hooper City High in Birmingham, AL.

Corine married Morris Coleman, Sr. on December 14, 1946.  To that union six children were born. She later married Robert Harris. Both preceded her in death as well as her parents, three sons, Morris Jr., Charles, and Ronald Sr. Coleman, a daughter, Sherry Coleman, and four brothers, Joe Sr., Charles, Boss Jr. and Frank Faison and daughter-in-law Susan Coleman.

A pioneering woman, Corine worked as a CNA in the 1960’s in Galesburg, IL, and as a Sheet Metal Mechanic at a Naval Shipyard in the 1980’s in Mobile, AL.  In 1997 she relocated from Mobile, AL to Gilbert, AZ where she was a faithful Charter member and Mother of New Life Christian Fellowships, International Church.

Corine is survived by her son, Steve Coleman of Galesburg, IL, daughter Debra (Bennie) Reynolds, of Gilbert, AZ and bonus children William Coleman of Keokuk, IA and Stephanie (Paul) Randolph of Indianapolis, IN, 25 Grandchildren, 45 Great Grandchildren and 21 Great Great Grandchildren, Daughter-in-Laws, Rachel Coleman and Carol Ann Coleman, Sister-in-Laws, Mamie Coleman, Dorothy Jefferies, Lucy Roberts, Wanda Faison and Mittie Moore, Brother-in-Laws, Dorris and Horace Coleman,  a host of Cousins, Nieces, Nephews, Family and Friends.

Memorial Homegoing Services will be held on Saturday, April 15, 2023, at 1:00 PM Mountain Standard Time at the New Life Christian Fellowships, International Church, located at 3641 E. Southern Ave. in Mesa, Arizona 85205

Mother Corine Harris    11/29/1928 – 03/14/2023

Livestreaming Services –  https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84794942910

                                                Passcode: 285009

One Tap Mobile                      +12532050468,,84794942910#,,,,*285009#US

The family expresses special thanks to the wonderful support received from their church family and the team of professionals at “In My Home Hospice Care.” Tempe, Arizona.

In Lieu of Flowers

Memorials may be made in the Loving memory of Mother Corine Harris to New Life Christian Fellowships, International, 3641 E. Southern Ave. Mesa, AZ  85205

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

James “Jim” D. Taylor, 80, of Mesa, AZ passed away on Saturday, April 1, 2023.

Jim was born on February 21, 1943 in Parkston, SD to Dewey and Pauline (Leischner) Taylor. He grew up in Alexandria, SD. He graduated from Alexandria High School, where he met his future wife, Karen (Butts). Jim earned a degree in Business Administration in 1965 from Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, SD. He began his career at SD Game, Fish and Parks in Pierre, SD and then transitioned to the SD Association of Cooperatives as an Executive Secretary in Huron, SD. He began his career as a fair manager in SD at the age of 24 as the youngest fair manager in North America. He was a Chamber of Commerce Manager in Huron, SD. Eager to return to the Fair Industry, he became a Fair Manager at the Heart of Illinois Fair and Exposition Gardens in Peoria, IL. A new challenge presented itself at the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines, IA. He managed the fair for ten years and many projects were accomplished. He furthered his career at the American Royal Livestock Show, Horse Show and Rodeo in Kansas City, MO. He expanded the growth of the Americal Royal World Series of Barbeque, which supports youth and education in agriculture. As a manager he shaped many innovative projects to finance the institutions. Jim enjoyed purchasing talent and developed many outstanding shows that people enjoyed attending. His infectious smile, upbeat attitude and honesty made him very successful. Jim then enjoyed a lengthy retirement. Jim and Karen toured the US with their fifth wheel trailer. They enjoyed many activities and jobs in the summer at three State Fairs. Jim and Karen remodeled an 1882 home in Alexandria, SD and subsequently opened the home as a Bed and Breakfast named Cherry Street Inn. Jim enjoyed working on cars with friends and family. He created many woodworking projects and enjoyed his welding techniques acquired at a community college in Illinois.

Cremation will be accorded by Bunker Family Funerals and Cremation of Mesa, AZ. A Celebration of Life service will be held Friday, April 28, 2023 at 10:00am at Velda Rose United Methodist Church in Mesa, AZ. A luncheon will follow after the service. Interment will be at Green Hill Cemetery in Alexandria, SD on May 26, 2023 at 10:00am. Luncheon will follow at Alexandria United Methodist Church.

Jim is survived by his wife Karen, of Mesa, AZ, daughter Kimberlee (G Michael) Staley of Hopedale, IL. He is also survived by three grandsons: Michael (Joni) Staley of Mackinaw, IL, Colby (Kristen) Taylor of Olathe, KS and Bryce (Brooke) Taylor of Overland Park, KS. One great granddaughter, Autum Rose Staley of Mackinaw, IL. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Bradley D Taylor, grandson Jared T Staley, three brothers and three sisters.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Diabetic Association or the American Royal – Education Department.

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.

Matthew Glen Miles (The Midge), 36, passed away on Saturday, March 25, 2023, in Ventura, California. Matt was born on April 21, 1986 to Robert and Shaunna Miles, and raised in Gilbert, Arizona. He was the seventh of eight children.

Matt was a hit from the get-go. His bright blond hair and infectious personality kept him from getting in trouble – most of the time.

Matt had a special bond with his mom and always considered himself a “mama’s boy.” When he was young, he’d come home from school after a hard day, and she knew just what to do to make things better. Her passing when he was just 12 was incredibly difficult, but her love and the care of his dad, older sister Julia, and family, sustained him.

A gifted athlete, Matt was a playmaker on the soccer field from a young age. Some of his family and friends’ fondest memories were playing in co-ed adult soccer leagues with him. He also loved spending summers wakeboarding on the lake.

Matt’s work ethic was evident early on, and while he often advised others to, “work smarter, not harder,” he also worked incredibly hard. From dancing in a strawberry costume in front of Jamba Juice, and then working at Discount Tire, to his RideNow and Harley Davidson days, Matt made an impression wherever he worked.

A talented leader, one of Matt’s best professional attributes was his ability to quickly evaluate, train and elevate employees to fix broken or underperforming bike dealerships. Unlike most trainers, Matt didn’t try to change people to fit his sales or work style, rather he helped them utilize their own strengths and style to succeed. Similarly, he inspired everyone around him to be better and do better.

A motorcycle lover, Matt got his first bike in high school. He loved to ride with friends and many of his fondest memories were the trips they took. As an adult, his friends truly became his family. They were there for each other and took care of each other through tumultuous times.

Matt was extremely loyal to his dad “Bobby.” They enjoyed fishing and camping trips, and Bob loved cheering on Matt at all his soccer games. Recently, when Matt had to choose between job offers in California or Texas, he chose California to be closer to his dad, and made a tremendous effort to visit regularly.

Matt was predeceased by his grandparents Bud and Marie Hathaway and Vercy and Lynwood Miles as well as his beloved mother Shaunna Marie Hathaway Miles. He is survived by his father Robert Glen Miles, Great Great Uncle Louis Stoddard, his siblings and their families: Michael Miles (Tammy) Zachary, Jackson, Brooklyn; Emily Lawson (Bjorn) Chris, Kara, Ellie, Mark, Maddy; Julia Scott (Jeremy) Lily, Alexander, Allison, Clara, Sammy; Heather Austin (Jared) Miles, Davis, Cade; Sarah Nicoll (Cory) Ethan, Emma, Andrew, Alexa; Joshua Miles (Jennalee) Lilly, Max, Josie; and Amy Pitney (Blaine) Robby and Summer.

Funeral services will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints chapel at 1155 E. Ray Rd., Gilbert, AZ 85296 on Saturday, April 8 at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests being nice to little kids and old people – Matt’s favorites.

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.

After 78 years of living big, LOVING life, and teaching everyone to believe in miracles, David Eugene Young left this earth to prepare a place in heaven for his wife of 57 years on April 3, 2023.

Dave’s wisdom and pure joy of life began on January 11, 1945 in Ogden, Utah, where he was the oldest of six siblings. He moved his life and family to Arizona in 1988. He was a world traveler, but planting a tree in his orchard was where he felt most at home.

Dave didn’t smoke, and he didn’t chew and definitely didn’t go with girls who do. Rae Beth Rand, was the girl who fit the bill. Knowing that she was the only person who could keep up with his wheeling and dealing, he closed the deal and married her in Preston, Idaho on March 11, 1966. The following year on March 10, 1967 they sealed the deal at the Salt Lake City, Utah Temple.

Everyone has a shit to worth ratio. While David had more cars, tools, guns, books, coins and yet -to-be-read magazines than anyone; he learned early on that you don’t own anything, it owns you.  His true worth was created with the birth of his 5 children Tamara Elizabeth Larsen (Daniel), Laura Rae Young-Shehata (Ash), Joseph David Young (Megan), Ruth Anne Young (Curtis Phelps), Alice Marjorie Young (John Whitson).

On a scale of one to ten, he was a ten but kept getting better. Especially as his legacy grew to twenty grandchildren:  Dallin, Miranda, Rachel, Clark, Sophia, Raea, Owen, Camdyn, Jeffrey, Emma, Ethan, Larissa, Daria, Herston, Max, Marjorie, Lex, Jess, Lilia, Annastasia and eight great grandchildren Lucas, Alexander, Theodore, Desmond, Senna, Noah, Cedar and Amanda. If you were part of this legacy you heard him cheer or whistle at your baptism, graduation, dance recital or sports game. At any given moment you could hear him bellow for his beloved RAAAAEEEE.

David served his country with honor on the USS Coral Sea, and served in the Naval Reserves as a commissioned Officer.  He always looked out for the little guy.  He lobbied for small businesses during his tenure at NFIB and was a patron of all local restaurants that said “Eat here”.  He and Rae spent three decades growing Brown-O’Haver, a public adjuster firm that advocates for the insured. David made friends with his clients, having relationships with many even decades later. He took on any claim no matter how big or how small believing that what was right was right. He was a proud member of the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA) with both Certified Professional Public Adjuster (CPPA) and Senior Professional Public Adjuster (SPPA) certifications.  David was also a serial entrepreneur with many business ventures. His most recent being Now and Then Auto. 

David was a fifth generation and faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. His most fulfilling calling was serving as the Employment Specialist where he used his vast network to find employment for those in need, and ultimately change the lives of hundreds of people. 

David was the president and founding member of the Know-It-All Club.  He was in the first graduating class of Clearfield High School in 1963. He then received his Bachelors in Finance and Banking from Weber State University. David learned how to spell vinyl, wrote four books and could score your bowling game. He then enhanced his growth and exploration with a lifetime pursuit of knowledge, including studies with PSI, Landmark, Tony Robbins, Dahn Yoga, and Great Courses.  Making certain he had no regrets, he graduated with his Master’s Degree in Executive Leadership from Liberty University in May 2022, and was working towards his second master degree in Not for Profit Management which will be awarded posthumously.  

David bought lunch. In heaven he’ll have to fight for the check with his father Raymond Glen Young, mother Marian Louise Brown, brother Stanley Dale and great granddaughters Aria Lauren and Charlotte Gwyneth who are all waiting to feast with him.  

Dave never met a stranger he didn’t like.  If you felt his love, he loved you. Keep the faith! 

A celebration of his journey on earth will be held Good Friday, April 7, 2023 at 2220 North Harris Drive, Mesa AZ 85201. Viewing 10 am -12 pm and a church service 12 pm – 2 pm. This will be livestreamed https://zoom.us/j/94130220977 . A graveside service with full military rights will follow at a 230 pm at City of Mesa Cemetery, 1212 N Center St Mesa AZ, 85201.

Because a tree is nice, in lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Boyce Thompson Arboretum.  https://btarboretum.org/

And just so he can have the last word one final time; Make America Great Again 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.

Karen Diane Wootton Myers, 68, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and daughter returned to her heavenly home on March 31, 2023.  Karen was born in Phoenix, Arizona on October 16, 1954 to Clayton Wootton and Luanne Hanks.  She attended school in the Phoenix area, graduating from Alhambra High School in 1973.

Karen married the love of her life and eternal companion, James “Ed” Myers Jr., on January 4, 1974 in the Mesa Arizona Temple.  After the birth of their first two children, Ed and Karen moved to Portland, Oregon, where they lived for 6 years.  They welcomed two more children while living in Portland, before returning to the Valley where their last child was born.

A member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Karen served in many capacities including Primary worker, Relief Society instructor, and Webelos leader.  

Karen loved to spend time reading, especially in the fresh air of the White Mountains, where she and Ed took their family every summer to camp on the banks of the West Fork of the Black River.  She was often found in a hammock with a book.

Family was a top priority, delaying her education and career to raise her five children.  She returned to school earning a Bachelor’s Degree in English from Arizona State University and a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Northern Arizona University. After completing her education, she spent over 20 years teaching English in the West Valley, primarily for 7th and 8th grades.  She retired sooner than she had hoped due to her health.

Karen was preceded in death by her father, Clayton Jay Wootton, husband, Ed Myers, daughter, Christy Myers Smith, and all four of her grandparents.  She is survived by four children, Jim (Marcy) Myers of Monroe, WA, Clayton (Valerie) Myers of Mesa, AZ, Scott (Jenn) Myers of Gilbert, AZ, and Bonnie (Jason) Giles of Othello, WA; her mother, Luanne Hanks, of Sun City, AZ; her siblings, Arlis Travis of San Diego, CA, Barry (Kaye Lynn) Wootton of Draper, UT, and Lynn (Ira) Gentry of Utah; 15 grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Graveside services will be held Saturday, April 8 at 10:00 a.m. at Greenwood Lawn Memorial Cemetery under the direction of Bunker Family Funeral Home, Garden Chapel 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.

Mesa, AZ

Megan Diane Vogan, 23, returned to her Heavenly Home on March 27^th 2023. Having battled autism, epilepsy, and other neurological conditions since birth, her perfect spirit ended her union with her not so perfect body while surrounded by her loving parents, Jeff and Amy (Caldwell) Vogan, and her siblings, Whitney Miller, (Kyle Miller), Taylor Vogan (Bekah Vogan), Jordan Vogan (Jacqueline Vogan), and Hannah Skinner (Brett Skinner). While unexpected, Megan’s passing was not a surprise after spending multiple weeks in the ICU as doctors exhausted every option possible to restore her health.

Megan was born on April 8, 1999 in Mesa, Arizona. She had many special needs and had many special caregivers in her life far beyond her immediate family. She attended and graduated from Chrysalis Academy in Scottsdale, AZ. She was able to touch many lives as she loved and was loved by many teachers, caregivers, habilitation workers, therapists, and friends. Megan greatly enjoyed music, had perfect pitch, and loved to rock in her chair, bounce on the trampoline, swing at the park, and go on car rides. She spent countless hours playing on her iPad, sorting cards, and ripping pages out of phone books. She enjoyed consuming Coke, trail mix, and cheese and loved to laugh. Her belly laugh was as infectious as her smile. Megan’s vocabulary was very limited, but her facial expressions could communicate more than words could say. Unlike many with autism, Megan loved to hug and be hugged. One had to be careful, though, as she liked to poke eyes, too. Maybe because eyes are the windows to one’s soul and she wanted to “touch you”.

She is preceded in death by her grandpa, Paul Vogan, and her grandma, Diane Caldwell. She is survived by her parents, siblings, 12 nieces and nephews: Charli, Rosie, Kyson, Annie and Weston Miller, Jace and Mack Vogan, Stella, Sunny, and Sylvie Vogan, and Josie and Lincoln Skinner; grandmother Sharon (Vogan) Nebeker, grandfather Glenn Caldwell, several uncles, aunts, and cousins, Princeton Group Home manager, Amal, the staff, and her housemate, Juliet. Also, a long list of caregivers (too many to name individually) who have become part of the Vogan family. Thank you for your selfless service.

Funeral service may be viewed online at: https://zoom.us/j/95496751379?pwd=Uzh3T0FYYVp3RXBEOUgxeWlYZlFJdz09

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.

Anthony Wayne Vakerics, Sr., 83, of Casa Grande, AZ passed March 30, 2023.  He was  born Sept. 17, 1939  in Fort Wayne, IN.  He was the son of the late Michael and Rose (Mascenik) Vakerics.  He is preceded in death by sister Darlene (Bob) Rankin, Brother Michael (Molly) Vakerics, and son Anthony Wayne Vakerics Jr. (Tony).

Wayne had his own carpet installation business for many years and then retired to sunny Arizona.  He enjoyed camping, gardening, woodworking, and model building.

Wayne leaves behind his wife of 44 years, Linda (Chaney) Vakerics.

He is survived by his son Scott (Cheri) Vakerics, his daughter Theresa (Jerry) Gollihar, step-son Jeffrey (Yolanda) France, step-son Scott France, five grandsons, a great grandson and a great grand daughter.  He also 2 nephews, and a niece.

A memorial service will be held in Arizona at a later date.

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

Elaine was born, Elaine Louise Barker to Carol Ann Barker and David Galen Barker, in Pratt, KS, March 11, 1970 in a blizzard. She passed away with friends and family near her on Friday, March 31, 2023 after battling cancer for several years. She was raised in Pratt, mostly by her mother, Carol until age 11. The family then moved to Scottsdale, AZ where her mother remarried. Elaine missed being far from her grandparents and some lifelong friends, but she enjoyed Arizona. She adopted the nickname Cricket, and then later Lainey. She graduated from McClintock High School, in Tempe, AZ where she became involved with Junior Achievement, meeting other students from high schools all over the East Valley. She attended on scholarship, all four years, Junior Achievement’s annual convention in Bloomington, Indiana. Later she attended as a photographer and then became a “Pink Fink”, a counselor of a group, at NAJAC. She met lifelong friends through Junior Achievement, and she claimed they were a part of “saving” her. She attended Mesa Community College where she met and married Fernando Cota, she always claimed to have got her “Mrs” degree there. They celebrated their 30th Wedding Anniversary in Hawaii with their son, Vincent Cota and his girlfriend, Caroline Fiss. Elaine had an amazing 30+ year career in newspapers in Mesa and Ahwatukee areas with the East Valley Tribune, Ahwatukee Foothills News and many more papers throughout Arizona. She was the “classified guru” and had some treasured customers for over 20 years, many for over 15 years. She made so many lifelong friends in her years through the newspapers, she treasured them and held them close to her heart. However, everyone knows that Elaine is happy to be reunited with Vicki Serna and hopes everyone is jealous! Elaine started scrapbooking in 1988 when she put together a scrapbook for her Junior Achievement NAJAC group. In 1995, when pregnant with Vincent she started up again and she never quit. Scrapbooking was her hobby but it was part of her being. Everyone that knew her, knew she was a paper crafter. One of her favorite things to do was to make and send cards, which she did for years and years. She loved to surprise friends with “happy mail.” The friends she “collected” through the years with scrapbooking is expansive. She had friends from all over the country, knowing some only through the computer screen, but that she felt extremely close with. She attended many scrapbooking retreats and gained even more friends. Elaine is survived, by her loving husband, Fernando Cota; her son, Vincent; father in law, John Cota of Heber, AZ, mother in law, Roxanna Cota of Phoenix, AZ and Mama Sharon Dodson of Ellis, KS; sisters, Betty Eisenhour of Stafford, KS, Latisha Haag, of Ellis, KS, Kendra Turner of Hutchinson, KS, and Joann Cota of Peoria, AZ; nephews: Art Olmos of Mesa, AZ and Philip, Noah, Isaiah and Simon Eisenhour of Stafford, KS, Zeke and Asher Haag of Ellis, KS, Zade and Zerek Turner of Hutchinson, KS; nieces: Kaydawn Haag of Ellis, KS, Lora, Heidi, and Hannah Eisenhour of Stafford, KS; and grandniece, Mardou Bey of Mesa, AZ; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and hundreds of friends. Elaine leaves behind friends by the hundreds, however, Barbara Duran, Stephanie Brunner, and Christine Torres will be especially missed on the daily. Elaine battled Kidney Cancer, being diagnosed during the pandemic, September 2020. She and her family would like to thank Mayo Clinic for their compassionate care; her friends and her Facebook Group members for supporting her journey every step of the way; for all the prayers, cards, gifts, and so much love expressed to her that helped carry her through the hard days. In lieu of flowers please feel free to make a donation on behalf of Elaine Cota to one of the following: • The Olive Press, Domestic Shelter in Mesa https://theolivepress.org/ • Hospice of the Valley https://www.hov.org/donate/ • Crops of Luv, https://cropsofluv.org/ They complete scrapbooks of trips of ill children that have gone on their Wish trip.

This obituary was written by Elaine (Lainey) Cota, who continues to take care of those she leaves behind.

Visitation and services will be held on Saturday, April 15, 2023 Visitation 10am-11am Services 11am Bunker Family Funerals & Cremation 33 N. 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.

Joseph “Mulie” Hanrahan, 64, of Mesa Arizona, passed away on 3/28/2023 after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Joseph was born on 12/26/1958 to Dennis and Judith Hanrahan in Danville Illinois. Spending his childhood in Fort Dodge Iowa.

After graduating from Fort Dodge High School in 1977.  Joe worked as a farmer helping on various farms within the Fort Dodge Area. After moving to Phoenix Arizona Joe spent over 25 years working in the Asphalt and Concrete Business.

There are no words that can express how grateful and blessed he was to have family, special friends and his Conquistador Family, Joe was a compassionate, loving and caring man with an infectious smile. His famous word were “If I don’t have what you need in my shed… you don’t need it”.

Joe’s sense of adventure led him to the great outdoors, riding horses, camping, fishing and hunting. His favorite spot was on the Mogollon Rim and White Mountains of Arizona.

Joe’s honesty, humility and deep caring of others will forever be missed and will live on in our hearts.

Survivors include his wife Catherine, brother Randy Hanrahan, Sister Tami (Kevin) Lunn, Children Inhyun (Craig) Hanrahan, Richard (Jessie) Campbell, Brian (Stevie) Campbell, Stacey (Alex) Nunez, Brett McCullough, 12 Grandchildren, Aunt Jacqueline (Tony) VanVoorst, many nieces and nephews, cousins and special friends. He was preceded in death by his Parents Dennis and Judith Hanrahan and son Craig Hanrahan.

Donations can be made in Joe’s memory to Hospice of the Valley

Hospice of the Valley Arizona (hov.org)

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.