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Linda Marie Ray, 69, a native of Arizona and retired educator, passed away on Sunday, 21 August 2022.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Delbert L. and Viola B. C. Ray, a brother, Danny, and sisters, Della and Viola Ray.  She is survived by three sisters, Lani, Beverly and Wanda, a sister-in-law, Nelda, along with various nieces, nephews and cousins.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, September 3, 2022 at 10:00 AM at East Resthaven Memorial Gardens, 4310 E. Southern Ave., Phoenix, Arizona  85042.

We ask that family and friends bring their own chair, hat, sunglasses, and needed shade (i.e. umbrella) to the graveside service.

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”, Martin, 83 passed away peacefully on August 20, 2022 in Chandler, Arizona. He was born in Mesa, Arizona September 1938. He grew up in Gilbert, Arizona a middle child and only son of Glenn H. and Wealth (Bigler) Martin, with his sisters Glennice and Laree. Jim led a happy and active life filled with family, friends and many hours of service.

In November 1961, Jim married Fern Leavitt. They enjoyed 60 years of marriage together. During their marriage Jim earned his Bachelor of Arts and Master’s degrees from Arizona State University. He briefly taught High School and eventually moved into title and escrow where he worked for over forty years. They lived in Gilbert, Phoenix, Sierra Vista, Scottsdale, and Mesa. Together they raised eight children. They have 35 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Jim was preceded in death by his son, James Allen Martin; daughter-in-law Terri (Townes) Martin; sister Glennice (Martin) Anderson, and parents Glenn and Wealthy Martin.

He is survived by his wife Fern; daughters Laura (Bienz), Rita, and Joan (Lasura); and sons David, Kyle, John, and Joseph; and his sister Laree (Martin) Trampp.

Funeral service will be held 1:00pm on Saturday, August 27, 2022 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints building 1500 E. 6th Ave. Mesa, Arizona 85204, with a visitation beginning one hour prior to the service at noon. Interment will be held at 9:00am on Monday, August 29, 2022 at Mesa City Cemetery, 1212 N. Center St. Mesa, Arizona 85201. Arrangements through Bunker Funeral Services.

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

John Jacob Brunner lll, our father, grandpa, brother, uncle and friend, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 17, 2022.

John was born in Helena, Montana, on July 8, 1938, the oldest son of John Jacob Brunner and Iva Irene Sims. Dad was a fixer!  He would often say: “I can fix anything but a broken heart.” (He used ice cream for that).  His joy was to help and be of service anywhere he was.

He completed a two-year certification program at General Motors Institute with a major in Service and Dealership Management.  He then transferred his credits and attended Utah State University, where he received a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Technology/Automotive Technology with minors in Physics and Mathematics.  He graduated in the top 10% of his class and was a member of The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi. During the 32 years he was with GM, he worked as: a Merchandising Representative, a Fleet Sales Manager, and a Service Manager.  Much of his time was spent receiving and presenting automotive training.  He did extensive work on Heavy Duty Truck Electrical with a specialty in Fire Apparatus Electrical.  He also taught hands on electrical classes (SET), HVAC, and other automotive subjects as needed.  John was an active member of Mobile Air Climate Systems Association (MACS) and the United States Junior Chamber, also known as the Jaycees. He also served on multiple advisory boards, including EVIT and the Rocky Mountain Fleet Managers Association.

John loved the Savior and joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints while in college.  His love of service was apparent, as he would help anyone at a moment’s notice throughout his life.  He served willingly in many capacities.  He especially loved his service mission at the Mesa Family History Center.

John met the love of his life, Valene Loveridge, while attending school at Utah State University.  They were married in the Logan Temple on June 8, 1960. They started their life together and family in Bountiful, UT; then moved to Flagstaff, AZ; and finally settled in Mesa, AZ where they stayed for over 50 years and raised their five wonderful children.  John’s wife Valene passed away in May 2021, but he is survived by his children: Scott, Cynthia (Brad), Ryan, Raylene, Kalet (Damien), and 12 grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Charlotte Brunner (Alan Shiller).

There will be a viewing on Thursday, August 25, 2022, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Bunker Mortuary University Chapel at 3529 East University Drive, Mesa, AZ 85213. The funeral service will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 1345 East University Drive, Mesa, AZ 85203 on Friday, August 26, 2022, at 10:00 a.m.  Visitation that morning will be from 8:30 to 9:30 am.

For those who are unable to attend, you may view the funeral service using the youtube link: https://youtu.be/yb7KB2O51OY

Flowers can be sent to the Bunker Family Mortuary on University.  Alternatively, you might consider instead a donation in John’s name to Rock Steady Boxing for Parkinson’s in Mesa (rocksteadymesa.com) or the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Missionary Fund (churchofjesuschrist.org).

Condolence cards can be sent care of Ryan Brunner 4127 East Arbor Avenue Mesa Arizona 85206.

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.

Remembering with love our beloved Glen Gaddie who passed away peacefully in his home with his wife at his side. He was 66 years old. He is survived by his immediate family, and hundreds of extended family, coworkers, friends and neighbors who will continue to cherish and love him.

Glen served a mission for The LDS Church at age 20. His missionary efforts continued for the rest of his life. He became an educator in private, trade, and charter schools. Teachers, staff and students adored him. He was a gentle kind person who was always concerned about others. He sang country music and was an extremely talented drummer. He was a great patriot who loved the founders of our country and stood for liberty.

Funeral services are Saturday, August 27, 2022 at 9:00 a.m. preceded by an open casket viewing at 8:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Chapel, 1455 N. Harris Drive, Mesa, AZ 85203. An additional viewing will be from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, August 26, 2022, at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 N. Centennial Way in Mesa. Bunker’s Garden Chapel handled the arrangements: Their website: www.bunkerfuneral.com.

Ray Andreas Haug born 4/21/1939 suddenly passed away 8/16/2022 at the age of 83. He was loved by many. All who knew him will remember his funny jokes, helping hand and loving nature.

He will be deeply missed by his loving wife Barbara of 57 years, daughters Carol (Greg) and Laura, grandchildren Marc (Sarah), Ryan (Megan), Kyleigh, great grandson Lucas. Bonus grandchildren Austin and Colton, bonus grandchildren Camden, Cara, Rhys and Carson. Sister Evelyn, predeceased by his twin brother Roy (Joan) and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be at St. Marks Episcopal Church 322 N. Horne, Mesa, Az. Viewing at 9 am, service at 10 am. Burial will be the following Friday. In lieu of flowers please make donation to St. Mark’s Samaritan Fund.

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.

Daniel “Dan” Mehalko, born November 29, 1929 in Akron, Ohio passed away peacefully on August 9, 2022 in Mesa, Arizona. Dan is a Veteran of the Korean War. He served honorably in the U.S. Army achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class E7.

Dan is survived by his children Kim, Daniele, Kelle and ten grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. Dan was preceded in death by his wife, Joy and son Shaun.

Memorial services will be Wednesday, August 31, 2022 at 10am at Desert Palm United Church of Christ 1230 E Guadalupe Rd, Tempe, AZ 85283 followed by Military Honors at the National Memorial Cemetery of 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.

Live Stream Link To View Service:

http://youtube.com/channel/UCtGD4mQCSi2WMLxW7POi6QQ/live

Lenna Whetten Smith, born May 6, 1927 passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on August 10, 2022, at age 95.

She was born in Colonia Garcia, Chichuahua Mexico to Leonard David Whetten and Lettie Beecroft (div.). Her father then married Willmirth Skousen and the family moved to Colonia Juarez where Lenna grew up and went to school. Her father passed away a short time later when she was only 8 years old. After she graduated from high school, Lenna moved with her mother Willmirth and younger sister Melvina to Mesa, Arizona where she met Arvard! Lenna married Arvard R. Smith in the Mesa Arizona Temple on January 9, 1948 and together they had 9 children, 41 grandchildren, 79 great-grandchildren, and 6 great-great grandchildren. They started their journey living in Ajo, Arizona, then El Paso, Texas, and came back home again to Mesa in 1970 where they both lived out their lives.

Besides nurturing and caring for her large posterity, Lenna had many and varied talents and interests. She was a gifted musician and from the time she was a teen-ager until her mid-80’s, she was always her Ward organist and choir pianist.  Her music was a great blessing to others throughout her life. Lenna served faithfully in the Mesa Temple for many years along with her daughter Sharon and sister Ella. Lenna especially loved to travel and did so often – she loved gardening, reading, beautifying her home, spending time with family and loved ones.

Lenna was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and daughter. She was a friend to all and always welcomed others into her home. She was a life long active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, being a member of the Mesa 30th Ward for the past 50 years!

Lenna is survived by her children Sharon Bowlby (Ken), Kathy Tucker (Steve), Marie Nelson (Larry), Corinne Maldonado (Jim, deceased), Gail Tucker (Tom), Rogers Smith (deceased)(Katherine), Colette Burgess (Rod), Darrell Smith (Stacy), and sister Betty Jo Farnsworth Lamarca. She was preceeded in death by her husband Arvard Smith after 52 years of marriage, her sons Kevin and Rogers Smith, granddaughters Sherelyn Bowlby and Brittnee Tucker, grandson Christopher Smith, and her four sisters Arletta Taylor, Ella Anderson, Melvina Allen and Agnes Marine Whetten.

Viewing is Friday, August 19, 2022, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Bunkers, 3529 E. University Dr., Mesa (Val Vista & University).

Funeral services will be Saturday August 20, 2022 at 10:00 AM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints building at 1911 N. 24th Street with a visitation preceding the services at 9:00 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.

Russell “Rusty” Eric Williams went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, August 9, 2022. He was reunited with his father Jesse Vondele and mother Dorothy Margarite.  He passed away doing something that brought him great joy – riding his mountain bike in the early morning hours.

Rusty was a loving husband and father who worked hard and sacrificed much to provide for his family. He is survived by his beloved bride of 39 years, Tami Sue; children Leah Ashley (Christopher), Jesse Ryan, and Melissa Robyn; sister Cynthia Denise (Tony), brother Leslie Rex (Jeannie) and his grand-dog Tank.

Russell was born on July 15, 1963 in El Paso, Texas. After graduating high school in Tucson, Arizona, he accepted a position at El Paso Natural Gas Company/Kinder Morgan where he worked as a dedicated employee, recently retiring after 40 plus years of service. In addition to various career opportunities Rusty enjoyed many friendships spanning New Mexico, Texas and Arizona.

Rusty loved pursuing his many hobbies including: bull riding, dirt bike racing, hiking and mountain biking. He also loved spending quality time with his family. His happy place was up at his and Tami’s mountain house in Arizona where they could escape the desert heat and enjoy the winter snow. This past Christmas was an especially happy time for him making memories with his wife, children and their significant others.

Most of all, he enjoyed his relationship with Jesus. In his later years, he spent many hours with the Father, reading His word and learning more of His heart. Though his family feel that he was taken way too soon, they take comfort in knowing that he is in the presence of his Heavenly Father who loves him the most.

A visitation and service for family and friends will be led by Pastor Dale Finstrom (cousin) on Saturday, August 20, 2022 at Bunker Family University Chapel, 3529 E University Drive, Mesa, AZ 85213 at 1 P.M. (Viewing/Gathering) and 2 P.M. (Service).

In memory of Rusty and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to Northland Christian Assembly in Flagstaff, AZ.

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.

Donna Lea Arledge, 85, of Chandler, Arizona, passed away on August 9, from natural causes.

Donna was predeceased by her parents, James and Claudia Bolen, and her siblings. She is survived by her four sons, Thomas J. Arledge, Steven D. Arledge, Charles D. Arledge, John J Arledge, her 3 grandchildren and numerous great, and great-great grandchildren.

Grave side services will be held at 11:30am on August 16th 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.

Donald “Don” Garney, born August 7, 1949 in Chicago, Illinois passed away peacefully on August 9, 2022 in Chandler, Arizona.  Don is a Veteran of the Vietnam War. He served honorably in the U.S. Army achieving the rank of Sergeant E5.

Don is survived by his wife Joanna, children Mary (Jay) Massow, Amanda (Chad) Horvath and nine grandchildren, Mallory, Mason, Meg, Alexis, Lucas, Peyton, Gwendolyn, Jeylin and Nathan, brother David Stark.  Don was preceded in death by his son, Jeff.

Services will be private, however, Don’s Facebook page will remain open and all are welcome to post memories and final words to him there.

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.

Live Stream Link To View Service:

Join Zoom https://zoom.us/j/97958912012?pwd=QXJyT3kwUFJWaVhKcHJKYVE0NlZ4UT09

Virginia Peterson Stradling, age 85, left this earth to return home to her Father in Heaven on Friday, August 5, 2022. She was born June 21, 1937, in Shumway, Arizona to Lamar Andelin Peterson and Goldie Rhoton Peterson.

Virginia grew up in a family of 12 siblings and graduated from Snowflake High School in 1955. After high school, she met Jack Owen Stradling in Mesa at the Mezona Dance Hall where they later married in the Mesa, Arizona Temple for time-and-all-eternity on March 29th, 1958.

She was a life-long member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, of the Mesa 2nd Ward, Pioneer Ward, and most recently Sossaman Estates and attending Wagon Wheel Ward while in Lakeside for the summer. She served unselfishly in many callings within the church, with her favorite calling teaching Relief Society. She also loved to go to the Temple weekly.

Virginia worked as a Social Worker and was a life-long student who had a master’s degree in Social Work from Arizona State University. She also participated in book clubs through-out her entire life and enjoyed them coming up to see her in Lakeside this summer.

Virginia was a loving Wife, Mother, Aunt, Grandmother, and Friend to all. Virginia and Jack were married for 62 years and are survived by their four children: Jordan Stradling, Darton Stradling (Sherri), Ashley Alvarez (Troy), Amber Lee (Mike) along with 15 Grandchildren, 11 Great Grandchildren, along with her brothers Scott, Jack, and Derl (Peterson) and many cousins and friends which she loved so dearly.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday August 27th, 2022, at the Mesa Lehi Stake Center at 1430 N. Grand, Mesa, AZ 85201, at 10am, with a visitation at 9am prior to the Services. Funeral will also be broadcast on Zoom.

JENIFER K LeMAY SHAFFER was born November 16, 1960, in Cincinnati, Ohio to Lester and Donna Boroff LeMay. When she was 4 years old, she went with her parents, and Eric her 4-month-old brother, on a short-term mission assignment to Johannesburg South Africa. She attended pre-school there and picked up the local accent, and people said, “she sounds just like one of us.” After 14 months, they went to Sango Otto Nigeria and lived in the bush, with no electricity, for another 14 months. They returned to Cincinnati area until 1969 when Lester accepted a pastorate at Casa Grande, Arizona. This lasted till May 1974 when they moved to Mesa and attended Central Christian Church. Jenifer had been baptized in Casa Grande, but when she moved to Mesa, Central became her church home for the rest of her church life. They were very active and served in many areas over the years.

She graduated from Mesa High School, where in her last year she was doing part time work as an accountant as part of her curriculum. She got an associate degree in accounting at Mesa Community College. She then did accounting work, eventually starting her own business, Shaffer Bookkeeping Services, which supported her the rest of her life.

She met Bob Shaffer at church, and they were married at Central Christian (Mesa) on May 29, 1981. He had an accounting degree from ASU, then became a postal carrier. Later he joined Jenifer in her accounting business, even calling her “boss.”

In 1997 they adopted Kathryn Anne (Katie) and brought her home at one day old. She continues to be a delight and a blessing.

In 2019, they became a part of the startup group for Central Christian Church in Tempe, and she remained serving there in many capacities. Over the years she and Bob supported several missionaries/organizations, as well as local charities like Choices Pregnancy Center and Center for Arizona Policy.

Jenifer was aiding her aging parents by doing their grocery shopping and assisting with online shopping and banking. But on July 1^st Jenifer suffered some pain that eventually led to her gallbladder being removed on July 3, 2022. It turned out to be an aggressive cancer and God took her home the day before she was to begin chemo.

She is survived by her husband, Bob and her daughter, Katie. Also, by her parents, Lester and Donna LeMay, and her brother, Eric.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you make donations in Jenifer’s name to Samaritan Aviation at http://samaritanaviation.org/shaffer.

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.