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Frances Aurelia Thompson was happily welcomed into the world on May 25,1949.  She joined her parents, Cecil William (aka Bill) and Barbara (Western), as well her older siblings Barbara Anne, Christine, Bill, and Joe.  They lived in Monticello, Utah at the time.  Cleova was also born there, and while Frances was still very young, the family moved to Mesa, Arizona, where the youngest sister Tannis joined the Thompson Tribe.

Francie grew up in a very loving family, one who took in any and all that needed a little extra help. She cherished her family, thought the world of her wonderful, kind-hearted mother, and adored her hard-working, dedicated father.  Francie excelled in art, enjoying multiple mediums, and won several awards while in high school. Francie was also a darling Mesa High Bunny! After high school, she continued to make beautiful art, and wrote quite a few poems.

For many years she went by the name of Fritz. She married Ed Davidson, though they later divorced. They had three children, Becky, Joleen and Terence, and raised them in Tempe, Arizona.  Frances opened her heart and home to Elberta Gorman so she could attend school in Tempe. The kids have happy memories of silly songs, playing in thunderstorms, home sewn clothing, the most delicious tamales, caramel corn, food fights, creative home decorating, and much more.  Mom was the story lady at their elementary school, and could make the best sound effects. She was a very fun mom!

Throughout her life, Frances was continually supportive of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, always celebrating them with the loudest claps, fingersnaps and enthusiastic “WooHoo”s!

Serving others came naturally to Frances.  She graciously shared her time, talents, home and heart.  She loved to craft with her grandkids. She donated bone marrow to her brother.  She was an amazing friend, neighbor and visiting teacher, always mindful of those who needed extra care. Frances was generous in her compliments, even to strangers, taking every opportunity to make someone feel seen and bring a smile to their face.  And her hugs!!!  She gave the best and most heartfelt hugs.  They were gifts to the recipient!

Frances loved sunrises and sunsets, and did not miss very many of them. Rainstorms, the desert and the Superstition Mountains also brought Frances great joy.  She enjoyed chocolate, and often frequented the See’s Candies store.  Ice cream was not only a favorite but a tradition, and she firmly believed in the power of Vitamin DQ!

Books were very special to Frances, including the scriptures, the dictionary and the thesaurus! She loved going to the library and bookstores, collecting hundreds of books, and carefully choosing special ones to give as gifts.

Frances was exceptionally creative and dedicated in many ways, including her church callings, her thoughtful gift giving, and most especially her greeting cards.  She sent hundreds of personalized cards to family and friends for any occasion, or no occasion at all!  Those tokens of her thoughtfulness and love will be missed by many!

Frances lived on her own for many years, and her children are very grateful for:

Her family members, who were like close friends.

Her close friends, who were like family.

Everyone else who kept an eye on her.

The kind and patient caregivers at Passion Hospice and Acoya Memory Care Center.

Thank you!!!

We also express gratitude to Heavenly Father for allowing us to know and love Frances, and to be known and loved by her. Frances loved God and trusted in Him.  She loved praying and reading her scriptures. She always lived an upstanding life, wanting to do everything just the way her Father would want. She knew she was a daughter of God.

Mom, we love you so much it tickles inside!  Thank you for everything you’ve done for us.  We will miss your wonderful hugs and happy dances, and look forward to the next ones! Woohoo!

A memorial service will be held in Frances’s honor.

1:00pm, Saturday, March 25, 2023

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints building

6001 S Lakeshore Dr, Tempe AZ 85283

All are welcome, and invited to stay afterwards for reminiscing and refreshments.

A link to the memorial service is posted below so it can be viewed remotely.

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The Passcode is:   Alma10

Frances will be interred at the Mesa Cemetery on a different day.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Tempe Public Library that Frances so loved, or any other library.  Thank you!

https://tempefriends.org/donate/

Services Streaming: https://zoom.us/j/98740711308

Robert Darrell Slade 77 of Mesa, Arizona passed away Sunday, February 20, 2023 at his home.  He is survived by his sister’s Fern Audene McLaws and Carol June Lunt and many nieces and nephews and dear friend Sandy Matta.

Visitation will be Friday, March 3, 2023 from 5-8:00 P.M. at Bunker University Chapel, 3529 E. University Dr., Mesa, Arizona  85213.

Funeral services will be Saturday, March 4, 2023, with a viewing at 10:00 AM and funeral service at 11:00 A.M. at Jesus Christ of Latter-Day-Saints, 1852 N. Stapley Dr., Mesa, Az.

Graveside service will be held Monday, March 6, 2023 at 12:00 PM at City of Mesa Cemetery, 1212 N. Center St., 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.

Richard Dick Scow, 95, passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 22, 2023 in Chandler, Arizona. He was born to Arvon and Janice Scow in Orangeville, UT on November 17, 1927. Richard married his high school sweetheart, Ione Conover in the Logan, UT temple on July 19, 1948. He graduated from BYU in accounting in 1951. They moved from Utah to Tempe, Arizona in 1956. Richard worked as a CPA and at Paragon Hotels for most of his career. He was well known for his mathematical mind and loved to solve puzzles. He built the Scow cabin in Pine, Arizona where many family gatherings were held. Richard loved ice cream, living on the water in Dobson Ranch, his family, the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and he especially loved to travel. One of his favorite places to visit was Ocean Beach with his family.

Richard and Ione had 60 wonderful years together raising their 4 children, Steven Scow (Mary Beth) of Henderson, Nevada, Janece Larson (Scott) of Mesa, Arizona, Sharon Bagley (Richard) of Utah, and Kimberly Riches (Victor) of Mesa, Arizona.

Richard was preceded in death by his wife, Ione; his parents, Arvon and Janice; and his brother, Ted.

Richard married Emily Bello on April 28, 2009. They shared many happy years traveling, visiting family, and running their care home together. They loved to wear matching shirts and to sing as they cared for their residents.

Richard is survived by his wife, Emily; brother, Merrill Scow (Sylvia); and sister-in-law, Marlene Scow as well as all of his posterity including his 4 children and his 28 grandchildren: Steven Scow Jr. (Miriam), Victor Riches Jr. (Justan), Katie Wride (Jared), Bethany Schumann (Brent), Shane Riches (Katie), Mandy Heal, Richard Scow (Jenny), Adam Larson, Bradley Scow (Julie), Justin Riches (Kenzie), Shannon Chapman (Scott), Holly Moss (Jeff), Jonathan Riches (Annie), Matthew Bagley, Christina Bishop (Nicholas), Christie Foster (Joshua), Daniel Scow (Suzanne), Jesse Larson (Ally), Melanie Dunbar (Chris), Brittany Preston (Nate), David Scow, Stephanie Cox (Steven), Quinton Riches, Katie Terry, Sarah Scow, MacKenzie Riches, Hunter Riches (Malia), and Trevor Riches. He also has more than 79 great grandchildren and counting!

The funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 4 at 10am at the LDS church at 2520 N Harford St., Chandler, AZ 85225 with a viewing from 9 to 9:45am. There will be a viewing on Friday, March 3, from 5:30 to 7:30pm at Bunker Mortuary, 33 N Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ 85201. He will be buried at the Mesa City Cemetery. For more information, please visit www.bunkerfuneral.com.

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.

Alma Lois Waters, “Lois” as her friends and family knew her, returned to our Heavenly Father Sunday February 19th 2023. She was born to Merrill Winslow Stout and Alma Fannie Roberds January 2, 1939 in Phoenix Arizona.

She spent many early years living on a ranch in Roosevelt, Arizona. Ranch life was difficult but this created many life skills for Lois and her siblings, Donna, Billy, and Ronnie. After moving to the valley, she worked in the bakery at Wright’s grocery store that was located at Stapley and Broadway in Mesa. This is where she perfected her talent of baking and decorating, specifically wedding cakes. She used this gift many times in her life to bless others on their special occasions including creating the wedding cakes for many of her children and grandchildren. It was at Wright’s grocery store where she would also meet her future husband working in the produce department. They were smitten. Steffan and Lois were married in December 1958.

In the early years of marriage while Steffan was in the Air Force they were stationed in Anchorage, Alaska. It was in those 2 1/2 years in Alaska that they welcomed their first two children Robert and Judy just born a little over a year apart. Following their Alaskan adventures they moved back to Mesa, Arizona and their son Eddie was born. Steffan began working for the Mesa Fire Department and Lois stayed busy enjoying homemaking, social and church activities, including assisting with costuming and set designs for the Mesa Arizona Temple Easter pageant. They welcomed their last son, John in 1972 and their family was complete. The Water’s family had many adventures spending a lot of time in Mexico, either on the water or sunbathing in the Sea of Cortez.

Throughout her life, Lois lived a life of service. She never hesitated to help anyone in need, including providing meals, giving of her time and talents, or just lending a listening ear. She stayed physically active her entire life, participating in volleyball, softball, walking clubs and exercise classes.

As much as Lois loved her family and her tight circle of friends, she loved the Lord even more. She was an amazing example of living a life of true discipleship. Whether serving in her many church callings over the years, working in the Temple or just making her 10th batch of homemade french fries for her grandkids, She always went above and beyond.

Lois was a wife of 65 years, a mother of 4, a grandmother of 11, and a great-grandmother of 17. Her grandchildren describe her in one word, Selfless. Her passing has left a hole in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to have a piece of hers.

She was preceded in death by her father Merrill and mother Fannie. She is survived by her husband, Steffan Waters of Mesa, Arizona, her four children, Robert Waters (Karin) Judy Waters, Ed Waters (Aretta) and John Waters (Holly) Along with a legacy of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Services will be held, Saturday, March 4th at 9:30 am, at the Mesa AZ Maricopa North Stake, 1718 N. Date Dr., 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.

Lorrain Yvonne Morris got her wings and went to walk with the angels at the age of sixty-one. She peacefully passed away in the comfort of her home in Fountain Hills, Arizona on February 18, 2023.

Harold and Evelyn Smith welcomed Lorrie into the world on February 17, 1962, in Tempe, Arizona. That day, the world became a whole lot brighter. Lorrie grew up in Phoenix and graduated from Tolleson High School.

She excelled in several things as she grew older but had a great love for serving people. Lorrie spent the last 20+ years as a Fry’s employee working in customer service and in the pharmacy as a technician. She loved her job, her co-workers, and her customers.

Lorrie was an exceptional wife, mother, and friend. She had a great appreciation for the simple pleasures in life. She was loyal and hard working. She lived a warm life filled with love, joy, and above all kindness. Her family and friends meant the world to her. She will be remembered for her caring heart and will be sorely missed.

Lorrain is survived by her husband of 40 years Daniel Morris Sr., daughter Camille Morris, daughter Jenny LaGreca and son in law Brian LaGreca, daughter Danielle Despain, and son Daniel Morris Jr. She leaves behind nine beloved grandchildren, Blayne, Damien, Jaden, Ellyanna, Jacob, Riley, Zane, Lincoln and Roan, as well as her brother Eddie Smith, and sister Chrissy Smith. She is predeceased by her parents Harold Smith and Evelyn Rogers, as well as her sister Pamela Smith and Tami Smith-Jones.

A memorial service will be held at 11 am on March 3, 2023, at Bunker Family University Chapel in Mesa.

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.

Livestreaming of Services: Brycen Marsolek 2-28-23 Celebration of Life

Brycen Joseph Marsolek, 33, died suddenly at his home February 21, 2023.

Brycen was born on July 3, 1989 to Mike and Amalie Marsolek in Denver Colorado, he was the youngest of three children and grew up in Lakewood Colorado where he met his wife Kaitlyn of seven years.

Brycen and Kaitlyn started their married life in Lakewood but were destined to move to Avondale Arizona where they raised the four fur babies; Kona, Liberty, Lily and Zoey (Stella/deceased). Bryce was the Director of Maintenance at Shea Park Post Acute in Scottsdale, AZ where he was loved by his team and the residents. Bryce enjoyed spending his free time with family, especially Kaitlyn and their Great Dane’s. He also enjoyed spending time with his parents where movie night became a monthly ritual. Bryce was good at many activities but was quite gifted at golf – recently shooting a 73, 1-over par while playing in the Saturday Golf League with his father.

Brycen was preceded in death by his brother Mitchell and is survived by his wife Kaitlyn and their furry family, parents Mike and Amalie, and sister Marisa.

Memorial services will be held Tuesday, February 28, 2023 at Garden Chapel, 33 N Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ 85201. Gathering will start at 10:30am with Service starting at 11:30am – reception to follow at Shea Park Post Acute to celebrate Brycen’s life with family, friends and his beloved residents. There will be a streaming service available as well. In lieu of flowers, Brycen and Kaitlyn request a donation be made to the Great Dane Rescue: https://www.greatdanerescueofazalliance.com/

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.

Kevin Bruce Cox, 69, of Mesa, AZ died peacefully at home on January 2, 2023.  Born in San Diego, CA in 1953, he was the son of the late James Cox and Vera Cox-Callahan.  As a Navy brat, Kevin grew up in several states and also spent time in Panama.  These childhood traveling memories inspired his love of backpacking and hitch-hiking around the world.  He enjoyed sharing his adventures with family, friends, and even strangers if an opportunity presented itself.

In 1971, Kevin spent a year traveling over 50,000 miles through the United States and Canada.  His love of travel and meeting new friends continued over the next two years as he hitch-hiked across much of Europe and the Middle East, visiting more than 25 countries and logging hundreds of thousands of miles. He was referred to in the newspaper as “the man who hitch-hiked the world.”  He credited his travels with his unique ability to easily talk to strangers, make friends wherever he went, and for his willingness to help someone in need.

After his years of globetrotting, Kevin returned to his home in Page, AZ, where he pursued a career as a Water and Wastewater Treatment Operator, achieving and maintaining Grade 4 certifications in both areas.  He also served his community as a volunteer Firefighter and EMT.  Through his rescue work while living by Lake Powell, he became an avid SCUBA diver.  In his spare time, he achieved notoriety in the area making his hand-crafted, sand-casted, Lake Powell driftwood candles.

Kevin relocated to Mesa, AZ and worked for the U.S. Forest Service as a Grade 4 Water and Wastewater Treatment Specialist until his retirement in 2021. He enjoyed the outdoors and working closely with coworkers, considering his work companions to be like a second family.  He enjoyed animals, taking care of his pool, riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle, and being a good neighbor.

Kevin is survived by his three children, Anneka, Tyler, and Gwen, three grandchildren, his twin sister Kerin, and brothers Will and Jeff.

A celebration of life will be held privately for family and scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity.

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

For those who are unable to attend the services, a zoom link is available to watch remotely. https://zoom.us/j/93431437098

Terry Michael Lewis, 74, passed away on February 16, 2023, in his home surrounded by loved ones after a difficult battle with Leukemia (AML).

Terry was born on August 18, 1948, in Holladay, Utah to Norman Ray Lewis and Donna Mae Belnap (Lewis). He was the oldest of three boys. At a young age, he developed a love of sports and participated in wrestling, baseball, football, and any other sport he could do in between. He graduated from Skyline High School in Holladay, Utah in 1966 and went on to study at Utah State University on a football scholarship as a Linebacker from 1966 to 1969. Terry also served in the Army Reserves from 1967 through 1972.

In 1969, while attending Utah State, he met the love of his life, Carol de St. Jeor. The two were married in Bountiful, Utah on July 16, 1971. They later welcomed three daughters into their home. Terry and Carol were sealed for time and all eternity in the Logan Temple in 1981. They lived in Logan until 1985, then moved to Mesa, Arizona to continue raising their family and further develop his construction business. He owned Terry M. Lewis Enterprises, a general contracting business. He also built and owned Broadway Storage Solutions in Mesa until he sold it in 2015.

Between 2001 and 2013, Terry and Carol welcomed in six grandchildren. Being a grandfather came natural to Terry, aka “Grandpa”. He loved spending time with his grandchildren. They often remember him working in his shop building furniture, cabinets, shelves and other woodworking projects. They also have fond memories of him working on his classic cars and driving them.

Terry and Carol loved to travel. Over the years, they visited many countries, such as China, Peru, France, Australia and many others. One of the most memorable was their trip to Spain, where he participated in the famous Running of the Bulls event in 2018.

Terry wore many titles. Husband, Brother, Father, Father-in-law, Grandfather, boss, fierce sports fan, but perhaps the most memorable of all is Friend. He was a General Contractor with over 50 years of experience. Not only did he build many custom homes in Utah and Arizona, he also built churches, banks and mini-storage facilities. He also did several remodeling and home addition projects over the years. It doesn’t matter what it was, Terry could build anything, fix anything, and had a tool for just about every job, even if he created the tool himself. Perhaps the most influential thing about Terry was his countless acts of service to those around him.

Terry was the perfect example of someone who “loved thy neighbor”. Most weekends you could find him helping neighbors with projects around their homes. Many who knew Terry have had something built, fixed, or repaired by him. Upon retirement, Terry golfed regularly and enjoyed collecting and restoring classic cars as well as attending sporting events. He was a Cardinals Football and Arizona Diamondbacks season ticket holder for many years.

Terry is survived by his wife, Carol (de St. Jeor) Lewis, his daughters Amy Smith (Randy), Niki Colman (Lance) and Ashley Alexander (Jeff) as well as his six cherished grandchildren and his brothers Rick Lewis (Jane) and Mike Lewis (Nancy). His family wishes to extend a special thanks to the dedicated staff of the MD Anderson Cancer Center for the love and care he received there.

For family and friends in Mesa, Arizona, a viewing will be held on Wednesday, February 22, 2023 from 6-8pm at Bunker Family Garden Chapel, located at 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, February 23, 2023 at 1:00pm at The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, located at 4640 E. Holmes Avenue Mesa, Arizona.

For family and friends in Salt Lake City, Utah, a viewing will be held on Sunday, February 26, 2023 from 6-8pm at Memorial Holladay-Cottonwood Mortuary. Funeral services will follow on Monday, February 27, 2023 at 12:00pm, also at Memorial Holladay-Cottonwood Mortuary, located at 4670 S Highland Drive, Holladay, Utah. Dedication of the grave and interment will follow at Memorial Holladay Cemetery, located at 4900 S. Memory Lane, Holladay, 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.

Stephanie Lamb Thompson, died unexpectedly on Saturday, February 11, 2023, at her residence. Stephanie was 40 years old. The family is deeply saddened and shocked by her sudden death.

Born on October 19, 1982, in Sacramento California, Stephanie’s feisty personality entertained her parents and siblings every day. As a young child, she and her family left California and moved to Arizona. She attended high school in Peoria. She met the love of her life while attending church in North Phoenix in 2006 and was married in 2007 to Matthew Thompson in the Mesa Arizona LDS Temple.

Stephanie’s fiery personality served her well as she worked for Wells Fargo as a collection’s agent. She quickly became the number one agent, being described as a “lion” on the phone. In her spare time, Stephanie learned many skills while renovating her home with her husband. From laying flooring, to installing her kitchen backsplash, Stephanie would set her mind to something and get it done. Stephanie was a beautiful piano player. She loved to dance, and even spent time as a child in gymnastics and as a cheerleader in high school.

Despite being a “firecracker”, Stephanie grew up to become one of the most compassionate and caring people that most would ever have the pleasure of meeting. Devoted to her children, Stephanie spent every moment of every day striving to be the best mother. She awoke daily with new resolve to gift her children with a truly magical childhood.

Stephanie was caring to her core. Her deep loyalty to those she loved and her kind natured heart became an example to everyone around her. She had a deep well of compassion and empathy to draw from, which she offered freely to others. It is evident that her time on this earth was to be a powerful example to others of what Christlike love truly looks like. For those who were lucky enough to break through her barriers, Stephanie adopted as family, and loved fiercely and profoundly. Stephanie’s love of God grew tremendously in her adult years, and she often loved to spend time in nature. This is where she felt closest to her Heavenly Father.

Stephanie is survived by her loving husband Matthew Thompson; her four children, Payton, Kaitlyn, Avery, and Gwen; parents Randy and Sharon Lamb; her siblings, Kendra (Darrell) Brimhall, Brett (Hailie) Lamb, Nick (Courtney) Lamb, and Brandon; Grandmother Rama Ford, as well as aunts and uncles, cousins, in-laws, nieces and nephews, and many dear friends.

Stephanie’s light is still here. It can be seen in the eyes of her daughters; her spirit can be felt in the air and in the sunshine; and those who love her have witnessed many miracles from Heaven, as she reaches out and pulls strings from the other side of the veil. Knowing we have an angel guiding us from the other side, it is a comfort to know that we will never walk alone as we forge through this mortal life. Stephanie had the most beautiful smile and the most contagious laugh. We can still hear her laugh hang in the air, and we long for the day when we can hear it again. Until that time, we choose to live our lives filled with acts of Christlike service, as Stephanie did.

Services will be held on Saturday, February 25 at 10:30 am at the LDS Church Building at: 1005 N Voyager Dr, Gilbert AZ 85234. A viewing will held be at 9:30 am prior to the service. You may also stream the service if you cannot attend in person. 2023-02-25 Memorial Service for Stephanie Thompson https://youtube.com/live/O6CVnAfqDMw?feature=share

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to our Go Fund Me fundraiser for Matthew Thompson. We hope to raise enough funds so that Matt can spend as much time as possible over the coming months with his daughters as they navigate this next phase of life. Please visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/k7anm-in-memory-of-stephanie-thompson

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.

Donald Thomas Spaniak, 77, was born March 22, 1945 in Chicago, Illinois. He lived the last 3 1/2 years in Arizona where he passed away peacefully on February 15, 2023. Donald was the beloved husband of the late Deborah (nee Goven), whom he married on May 17, 1969.  Loving father of Laura (David) Schroer, Donald L. (Jennifer) Spaniak, and David (Hannah) Spaniak. Cherished grandfather of Elizabeth and Matthew Schroer and Nathanael Spaniak. Dear brother of the late George (the late Barbara), Laurie (Darryl) Drake, the late Nicholas (Virginia), and Mary Bell(the late Lyle Schmidt). Fond uncle of many nieces and nephews. Donald was preceded in death by his mother, Lorraine. He was extremely proud of his long career with Chrysler Financial. No funeral or memorial service is immediately planned. The family will notify loved ones in the future when a service in Illinois is scheduled. Interment will take place at All Saints Catholic Cemetery in Des Plaines, Illinois at that time.

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.

Brandon Joseph Busby, 36, of Mesa, Arizona has returned home to his Heavenly Father on February 12, 2023.

Brandon was born on June 6th, 1986 in Mesa, Arizona to Robert and Alma Busby. He was the third of five children and the father to three sons. Brandon was a talented steel building craftsman and began working in the industry as a teenager with his father and grandfather. His love for building began as a young child. He loved to create structures and did so with great passion and perfection. At the young age of 23, he earned his Arizona contractor’s license. He also obtained his Wildland Firefighter certification and loved to go on assignments in the beautiful deserts and forests of Arizona. He loved the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the comfort that its teachings and promises brought to his life. Brandon loved most his three sons Tristan, Ashdon and Landen. He enjoyed sharing his love for building with them and often took his boys along with him on projects, teaching and sharing his craft with them.

Brandon loved his family and is survived by his children Tristan, Ashdon and Landen Busby; parents Robert and Alma Busby; siblings Regina Rodriguez (Luis), Blaine Busby, Beau Busby and Alexa Johnson (Jaren); and his eight nieces and nephews. His family loves and misses him immensely and looks forward to being together again.

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.

Gina McCann (Merath), born August 19, 1976 passed away peacefully in her home February 3, 2023 in Mesa, Arizona. She was born to Debra and John Merath. She is survived by her parents Debra and John, her brother Jesse, her children Bryce, Ashley and Leland, her husband Kevin, and her two grandchildren Ember and Avery. Gina will be remembered for the love she had for her family, her great sense of humor and her giving nature. Gina was always eager to lend anyone a helping hand and she will be sorely missed. Funeral services were held on February 9, 2023.

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.

Lilles M. Zobel, 94, passed away peacefully at home with her five children at her side on February 7, 2023 in Scottsdale, Arizona. She was born to Lester and Lillian Jager in Joliet, Illinois in 1928. Lilles led an exciting active life, always surrounded by her family. With her husband, her parents, aunts, sisters, children, grandchildren, and cousins, her life was inspired, living happily one gathering and celebration to the next throughout her journey. Lilles was a model, dance instructor, and business owner. She loved music and dancing was a passion her entire life. Her sense of humor and love of life was infectious. Her grace and beauty both inside and out were breathtaking.

In 1949, in Joliet, Lilles married George Zobel, a former Marine six years her senior. They were blessed to share just shy of 60 years together. They happily raised six children, Deborah E. Craig (John) of New Lenox, Illinois; Thomas L. Zobel (Cindy) of Joliet, Illinois; Timothy S. Zobel (Laura) of Apache Junction, Arizona; William E. Zobel of Phoenix, Arizona; Guy S. Zobel (Tami) of Phoenix, Arizona; and Michelle K. Zobel of Scottsdale, Arizona.

Lilles was proceeded in death by her husband George, her newborn son Georgie, her son William, her sister Doris, and her parents Lillian and Lester.

Lilles lived for, cherished and loved her six children and eighteen grandchildren: John, Carrie, Samantha, Kristen, Tim Jr., Tom Jr., Sarah, Amy, Gabriel, Chelsea, Mickey, Lily, Grace, Guy Jr., Mary, Jaclyn, Danielle, and Georgia, along with twenty-one great grandchildren.

The funeral mass will be held on Thursday, February 23, 2023, at St. Theresa Catholic Church, 5025 E Thomas Road, Phoenix, AZ 85018 at 10:45 am. Service to follow at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona; 23029 N. Cave Creek Road, Phoenix, Arizona 85024 at 2:30 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.

Marjorie Ann Steele, beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, teacher, and friend passed away peacefully in her sleep on Friday, the 3rd of February 2023, at 83 years old.

Marjorie was born on June 26, 1939, in Bountiful, Utah, to Cecil and Lola Bonham. She was the second child of six—two of whom died when they were in their childhood (Betty and Carl). Surviving to adulthood were her older sister, Gale Flake, and her two younger brothers, Bill and Lee Bonham. Her older sister, Gale, was her best friend throughout her life, until Gale’s death several years ago.

In her early years, Marjorie lived mostly in Arizona—with some time spent in Utah. She fondly remembered road-trip vacations with her family—especially the one where she road with her siblings all across the western United States in the back of her parent’s pick-up truck! In her early twenties, she served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Central America Mission. While serving there she learned Spanish well, met life-long friends, and found her love of missionary work. It was this love of missionary work for the gospel of Jesus Christ that drove her to go far outside her comfort zone and meet all her neighbors wherever she lived.

After her mission in Central America, she fell in love with and married Ike Lynn Steele, who also served a mission in Central America and knew Spanish fluently. They were married in the Mesa Arizona Temple on August 21, 1965. 

Marjorie and Lynn had five children—David, Michael, Gary, Thomas and Elena. They hosted a foreign exchange student from Japan for many years—Keisuke Katsuyama. They loved him so much, he became part of the family, and she claimed him as her son. They raised their children mostly in the Phoenix Metro Valley with some time spent in Missouri.

Early on in their marriage, Marjorie received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees and became a teacher. She was an excellent elementary school teacher, and had many students later in her life express gratitude to her for sharing her love and talent of teaching with them. She retired from teaching and settled with her husband in north Gilbert at Val Vista Lakes, where she lived for nearly 30 years.

She selflessly took care of her father, mother, and husband until all three of them passed to the other side. She loved serving her family and others, and spent many hours visiting and serving her neighbors while living at Val Vista Lakes.

One of the things she was best known for among her family members was how wonderful she was as a grandma! She had amazing “Grandma Parties” with all her grandchildren on a regular basis. On each grandchild’s birthday she would celebrate with them and show them how special they were to her. As they got older, she sent birthday cards with a little bit of money and her testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ written inside. Over the last several years, as she got older, she made a point to call every beloved child and grandchild on their “day”—every month—just to stay connected to each person. Her entire family will miss those monthly calls.

Marjorie will be remembered for her countless acts of service, her strong conviction of the gospel of Jesus Christ, her ability to forgive, her constant loyalty to friends and family, her amazing organizational talent and her unending love for family, friends, and neighbors. She had a quirky fun side that some people seldom saw—hence her latest favorite picture of herself (compliments of Snapchat) that we have displayed above. She had a great love for BYU sports, which she faithfully watched with her good friend, Carol Jean Jones. She was a lovely woman inside and out and will be sorely missed.

Marjorie was preceded in death by her parents (Cecil and Lola Bonham), three of her siblings (Betty and Carl Bonham, and Gale Bonham Flake), her husband (Lynn Steele), and her son (Thomas Lamar Steele).

Marjorie is survived by 2 of her brothers (Bill and Lee Bonham), 5 of her children (David Steele, Keisuke Katsuyama, Michael Steele, Gary Steele, and Elena Steele Yeager), 25 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

She was unafraid of dying, and even excited to be reunited with her loved ones who passed on before her. Her greatest excitement was to be reunited with her husband again. She passed away happy and peaceful in her sleep, with her daughter by her side. Her viewing, services, and interment will be held as listed above.

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.

Esther Lynn Johnson, born May 9th 1942, Cherokee Iowa , to Donna Marie Carnes and William Casper.

Died December 21, 2022 at her home in Phoenix, Arizona which was her wish.

Esther was creative, artistic, intelligent, and witty. She was a lover of fine art and collected many beautiful pieces through the years.

She was a well-known and respected antique dealer and appraiser for 46 years.

She was the mother of six children: Kenn Freestone, Susan Freestone, Karen (Hamilton), Steven Freestone (deceased),  Kristen (Foland), and Scott Freestone.

16 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren.

She is survived by her brother Jack Johnson.

Services will be private

Stephen LeRoy Peel, 65, of Mesa, peacefully passed away on January 23rd, 2023.

Steve was born in American Fork, Utah, on October 28th, 1957, the second child of LeRoy and LaRae Peel. At five years old, he was one of the first to receive open-heart surgery and was active for the rest of his life. He graduated from Westwood High in 1976, and went on to study geology at Brigham Young University, and forestry at Oregon State and the University of Montana, where he earned his master’s degree while developing the school’s long-distance learning program. He was proud to be a Wilderness guard, which included taking pictures of the parks for documentation and preserving the wilderness by teaching proper etiquette and packing out trash left behind. He spread his love of the outdoors to everyone around him, especially his children. He loved the mountains of Montana but returned home to Arizona at the end of 2003 to be closer to family. Steve loved to make care packages for faraway family members; he shared his love through his generosity, not only with gifts but with his time. He knew a lot about a lot and loved to teach. With Steve, it wasn’t unusual for a one-hour hike to last four hours, or for everybody with him to return with pockets full of rocks.

He served the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints faithfully for many years, including a mission to Uruguay, and made lasting friends through his service.

Steve is survived by his three children, Lex Peel, Kati Keel (Bryce), and Niki Stark (Bailey), six grandchildren, one brother, and three sisters, as well as beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, LaRae Peel, and his father, LeRoy.

Family and friends are invited to funeral services, which will be held February 11, 2023. 2265 S. Hawes Rd. Mesa, Arizona at 10:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the National Park Foundation, as he spent much of his time in various national parks and was a firm believer in making nature accessible to everyone.