Find An Obituary
Recent Obituaries
Daniel Josiah (DJ) Gates of Mesa, Arizona, passed away May 6, 2025. Born February 27, 1997, in Mesa, he was the third of five children and lived his life to the fullest, bringing joy to everyone he came in contact with. DJ was talented in music and athletics. He graduated from Mesa High School in 2015 as a proud Jackrabbit and married his high school sweetheart, Brianna Wadsworth, in 2019. He worked as an insurance salesman. He was a loving and devoted husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend. He is already missed for his outgoing personality, ability to make others feel important, humorous antics, and love of life. Survivors include his wife Brie Wadsworth-Gates; parents Bob and Lana Gates; brothers Joshua and David Gates; sisters Megan Gates and Becky Elliott; grandparents Norma Paulin and Dan and Jan Hardy; and numerous nieces and nephews. DJ was preceded in death by his grandfather Ervin Gates. A memorial service will be held on Monday, May 19, 2025, at 10 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 1266 S. 32nd St., Mesa, Arizona 85204.
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.
Virginia “Ginny” Lee Means, 90, passed away peacefully at her home in Mesa, AZ on May 9th, 2025, serenaded by angels.
She was born to George and Naomi Harrold in Topeka, KS.
Ginny was preceded in death by her husband, Lee, her son Ron and grandson Cooper along with many other family members.
She was a beautician in KS and AZ until retiring. She enjoyed her family and friends, going for drives, being outdoors and was an avid golfer.
Ginny is survived by her daughter, Gail Johnson of Mesa, AZ, her 4 grandchildren: Erik (Amanda) Johnson, Christi (Chane) Beyer, Deanna (Shiloah) Hutsen, Luke (Cassie) Johnson and 8 great-grandchildren: Jayda, Cole, Addison, Jack, Dakota, Delaney, Deagan and Nevaeh who are all in KS, along with many other family and friends.
Ginny’s beautiful smile will be missed by all.
We are honoring Ginny’s wishes to be cremated and have no services.
Donations may be made to Hospice of the Valley at 2020 E Woodside Court, Gilbert, AZ 85297. Hospice of the Valley 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.
Mark Woodland Keller was the 5th of 7 children born to Gaynor Louise Woodland Keller and Neal Stephen Keller in Mesa AZ on June 6, 1962. He was fun loving child, with lots of energy, always smiling and a bit mischievous. He had wavy brown hair that became much curlier as he got older.
He was only 7 when his Father passed away at the young age of 42, and was raised by his wonderful single mother who strived to care for & provide for her children while working full time. He and his siblings learned to work hard at an early age as their help around the house was greatly needed.
He attended Longfellow Elementary, Mesa Jr High, and Mesa High School – where he played on the baseball and football teams.
With the help of his older Brother-in-law, mentor and father figure – Bob Yost, he learned concrete work, and perfected those skills throughout his life. Many a day off from the Fire Station were spent doing Concrete side jobs.
Mark has 5 children from his 1st marriage: Cassie (who tragically passed away Feb 16th, 2020) Courtney Petersen (Brett), Cameron, Cade & Channing Keller.
Mark found the love of his life, his soul mate, Stacie Tidwell and they were married Aug 5th 2000. He was a loving step dad to her girls Baeley and Quincy Haught. He was Papa to his 8 grandkids and 2 great grandkids. His kids & grandkids adore him and are feeling an incomprehensible loss in their lives.
Mark loved concrete work, but wanted more stability and income for his large family and decided to train to be a firefighter, and he started that occupation in 1990. This career was his passion and he truly loved his job and all the people he worked with over his 35 years of service with the Mesa Fire & Medical Department. In his many years of service, he served as a Paramedic, a Technical Rescue Technician, a Recruit Training Officer, and many other roles. The impact he had on hundreds of Firefighters cannot be understated. Most importantly, he could always be counted on for a smile and a joke. His legacy will live on with the countless people he impacted.
Mark & Stacie absolutely loved their life together! They loved spending time with their friends, kids & grandkids. They loved traveling, and worked hard to save for their yearly Caribbean vacations. Mark & Stacie also enjoyed scuba diving, hiking together, and paddle boarding on the Salt River. Many friends & family have enjoyed these great adventures with them. These moments will be sorely missed.
In our Family, Mark was always the calm in the storm, the voice of reason, the breath of fresh air with a glass always half full attitude, the one who could make us laugh, and an example and hero to all of us.
Mark is survived by his sweetheart Stacie Tidwell Keller, 6 children, 8 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, and siblings Stephany Keller Worthen (Richard), Kristina Keller-Wilczek (Ron), Wallace Keller (Lora) & Matthew Keller (Morag).
Mark W. Keller died while on duty on May 6, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, his dear daughter Cassie, his niece Traci, nephew Richard, older sister Cindy, brother-in-law Bob Yost, brother-in-law Alan Hanks, and older brother Eric. Surely, they all enjoyed a joyous reunion with Mark in Heaven, but losing him has left a giant hole in all of our hearts.
Services for the one and only Mark W. Keller.
The viewing will be held at:
Bunker’s Garden Chapel
33 N. Centennial Way
Mesa, AZ 85201
Wednesday May 14th 2025 at 6-8 pm
The Services will be held at:
Mission Community Church
4450 E. Elliot Rd.
Gilbert, AZ 85234
Thursday May 15th, 2025 at 10am.
Graveside Burial will be invite only.
**They are anticipating standing room only please arrive early if you want a seat.
Thank you for celebrating the life of Mark. He will be truly missed by so many.
In Loving Memory of a Devoted Mother
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Angela Mannino, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, who left us on April 20, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Her kindness, strength, and unwavering devotion to those she loved will forever remain in our hearts.
Born on January 31, 1947, in Brooklyn, New York, Angel (as she was known to her family and friends) grew up with a passion for nurturing others and a heart full of compassion. Throughout her life, she exemplified what it means to give selflessly, creating a home filled with warmth, laughter, and unconditional love. As a mother, she was a guiding light, teaching her children the value of kindness, perseverance, and the joy in simple moments.
Angel had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel special, with her listening ear, comforting words, and gentle presence. Whether it was through her culinary delights that brought the family together or her hands that were always busy crafting or helping others, she left behind memories that will be cherished for generations.
A woman of deep faith and conviction, she found joy in helping her community and offering support wherever it was needed. Her legacy of love and generosity lives on through her children and grandchildren, who will carry forward the values she instilled in them.
She transformed herself from a stay-at-home mom to an independent and accomplished individual. From purchasing her own home, to traveling to far-off places and living every moment to the fullest with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Family was of the utmost importance to her and her memories of a childhood filled with laughter and fun with her many cousins were always the source of great tales.
She is survived by her children, Dawnmarie Mannino, Tinamarie Guffey (Larry Guffey) and John Mannino (Stephanie Bissonnette), grandchildren, Nicholas Walker, Samantha Walker, Giovanni Mannino, Isabell Aquino and William Mannino, great grandchildren Sebastian Ordaz and Damian Aquino, Brother Frank Sabatino (Ann Sabatino) and sister Anita Denny who will continue to honor her life by cherishing her memory and living with the same grace and love she embodied.
A celebration of her life will be held on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at Bunker Family Funerals, 3529 E University Dr, Mesa, AZ 85213 at 11:00am where family and friends are invited to come together to honor her extraordinary life and the love she shared with so many.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, an organization close to Angel’s heart.
Though she is no longer with us, Angel’s spirit will remain a beacon of light and love in the lives of all who were fortunate to know her. She is most likely still dancing the lindy with her sister, watching Hondo from SWAT and keeping up with Days of Lives. Rest in peace, dear Mother. You will be forever missed and eternally loved.
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.
Thomas Mark Butler, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, passed away peacefully in Mesa, AZ, on May 5, 2025, surrounded by family and loved ones.
Born on August 1, 1952, in Monterey Park, Los Angeles, California, Tom lived a life defined by faith, family, and selfless service to the Lord.
Tom served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Philippines, where his love for sharing the gospel and uplifting others grew. He attended Brigham Young University, where he met the love of his life and eternal companion, Marilyn Earl, while playing drums as a BYU Young Ambassador. The two were sealed for time and all eternity in the St. George Utah Temple on February 20, 1976.
Tom and Marilyn were blessed with six children, who were their greatest joys. As a devoted father, Tom instilled within his children a love of music and the values of faith and selfless service. His legacy of love extended to his cherished grandchildren, who brought him endless joy.
Tom worked with his brothers in the tile and stone business. A faithful servant of the Lord, Tom lived his life in devotion and service to his family and others. His goodness and unwavering testimony touched countless lives. He served as a bishop and in various callings within the church, always striving to reflect the Savior’s love.
Tom is survived by his eternal companion, Marilyn Earl Butler, their six children, David (Suzanne), Melanie (Sjon), Jacob, Heidi (Tylan), Holly (Stephen), and Aaron (Aubrie), and 19 beloved grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd LeMarr and Anna Deon Clark Butler.
Tom’s family finds comfort in the knowledge that he is reunited with loved ones in the presence of the Lord, and they look forward to the day they will be together again as an eternal family.
A funeral service will be held on May 24th at 10:00 am at the LDS chapel at 1249 S. 48th St. in Mesa to celebrate Tom’s life and faith. The service will be preceded by a viewing at 9:00-9:45 and followed by an interment at the Mesa Cemetery.
For those unable to attend the service in person it will be viewable online with this link: https://zoom.us/j/94738604388
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.
Leatrice Eileen Fowell, 79, passed March 20th, 2025 at home in Gilbert, Arizona.
Leatrice (Letty) was born in Bismarck, North Dakota, on January 20th, 1946 and moved with her parents, Lester and Marlys Tjaden, to Portland, Oregon. She has one brother, Lezlie Tjaden, in Shingletown, California.
She graduated from Jefferson High School and went to Portland State University in Portland, Oregon.
She served as President of AZ Blankets for Kids, making blankets for children and was involved making many crafts and jewelry over a lifetime. Letty sold crafts and jewelry at the Little Mesa Café, Mesa, AZ. She also loved traveling with her husband, Bill.
Letty is survived by her husband, Bill, one son: Greg Sjothun and two stepsons: Dave and Steve Fowell.
Known for her kindness, generosity and giving to others.
She was always willing to help everyone.
There will be a burial service on Monday, May 12 at 1:00pm for Leatrice Fowell at Skyline Memorial burial site, located at 4101 NW Skyljne Blvd., Portland, OR.
Coffee and dessert will be served after the 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.
Shawnee Mae Kisto age 37 of the Gila River Indian community passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on April 26, 2025 at Chandler Regional Medical Center in Chandler AZ.
Shawnee was born on December 14,1986, in Phoenix, AZ to Dwayne and Gerri Kisto. She loved music, dancing,baking and could find humor in just about anything. She was a homemaker who loved and cared for her four children.
Shawnee is survived by her Father Dwayne Kisto, Sister Michelle Mitchell, her four children (Maliyah Perez, Jaxson Perez, Jessie Perez, and Alexis Perez), her niece Maria Robles and nephews (Angel Robles, Xavier Mitchell, Jonathan Mitchell, and Tyrone Mitchell).
Shawnee is Preceded in death by her mother Gerri Kisto, and two brothers (Jesse Robles and Anthony Kisto).
Funeral Service will be held at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses at 4885 S. 156th St. Gilbert AZ, 85298. On May 17 at 12:30pm
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gary C. Lewis, a cherished member of the Mesa, Arizona community, who left us on May 2, 2025, at the age of 62 after a courageous five-year battle with cancer.
Gary is lovingly remembered by his wife, Dianne K. Lewis, his two devoted children, Joseph Lewis (Mindi Lewis) and Karl Lewis (Chealyn Lewis), and his eleven adoring grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Kyle Lewis, and sister, Lonna Lewis. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Larae Lewis.
Born on November 7, 1962, in Mesa, Gary graduated from Westwood High School in 1980. He dedicated his career to the Mesa Public Schools, where he served in the landscaping and grounds maintenance department until his retirement. Known for his unwavering work ethic, Gary approached every task with passion and commitment.
Gary’s greatest joy came from his family. He held an immense love for them and took great pride in his family’s history, always cherishing the bonds that brought them together. His caring nature extended beyond his immediate family to all who were fortunate enough to know him.
An outdoor enthusiast, Gary found solace in nature, reveling in activities such as hunting and camping. He had a green thumb, enjoying gardening and the satisfaction of working with his hands. A true car aficionado, he delighted in the thrill of races, sharing his passion with friends and family.
Gary faced life’s challenges with determination and resilience, always fighting for what mattered most to him. His warmth, kindness, and spirit will be profoundly missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A Celebration of Life will take place on Friday, May 9, 2025, at Bunker Family Funeral Home, located at 3529 E. University Dr., Mesa, AZ 85213. The viewing will begin at 9:00 am, followed by services at 10:00 am. All family and friends are invited to join us in remembering and celebrating Gary’s life.
Gary will be laid to rest at Mountain View Cemetery.
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 Alldredge Smith was born in Mesa, AZ on May 1, 1952 and passed away in Mesa, AZ on May 1st, 2025 at the age of 73. She was preceded in death by her parents, Miles Isaac and June Kimball Alldredge, her husband, David Melvin Smith, and her granddaughter, Sophie DeTemple. She is survived by her children; Andrew (Lisa), Daniel, Deborah (Gavin), and Matthew (Melanie) as well as seven of their eight grandchildren. She is the youngest of four children, and is survived by all; Fay, Tony, and Diana. She grew up in Mesa, spending many happy summers in Strawberry, AZ. She absolutely loved the cabin and was very sad when it was sold. She attended and graduated from Westwood High. She went to BYU’s Provo campus and earned an AA degree in Secretarial Technology. She minored in art. She was a very gifted artist, and her preferred medium was pencil, but she loved working with most anything. She had dated many men while at BYU, but after graduation, she felt she should move home to Mesa, AZ and that’s where she met, and eventually married, David. Jean was passionate about many things, her art, her children, grandchildren, and the gospel of her Savior, Jesus Christ. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
There will be a Luncheon on 5/10/2025 from 12:00pm to 1:30pm at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Mesa at 2334 E Pueblo Ave Mesa, AZ 85204 after the service.
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.
DeWayne Cooley, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and community leader, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2025.
Born and raised in Mesa, Arizona, DeWayne was the son of Eldon and Elona Cooley. His father Eldon was a respected farmer, former mayor of Mesa, and devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
After graduating from Mesa High School as part of the Class of 1960, DeWayne went on to attend USC Dental School. He later returned to Mesa, where he practiced dentistry for over 30 years, known for his care, integrity, and gentle approach. Upon retiring, he and his beloved wife Judy (Waite) settled in Heber, Arizona, where he loved the good people of the Rim country and cherished the friendships he found there.
A devoted disciple of Christ and a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, DeWayne served faithfully as Bishop of the Gilbert 3rd Ward and in the Gilbert Stake Presidency. As a young man, he served a mission in Toronto, Canada, and later in life, he and his wife served missions together in Kirtland, Ohio, and San Francisco, California. His faith was the foundation of his life, and he lived it through quiet service, deep compassion, and unwavering commitment.
DeWayne was a man of wide-ranging passions. He loved working with his hands—whether in the garden, caring for animals, tending bees, or building a better world through learning and service. A lifelong student and avid reader, he was endlessly curious and always seeking to grow in wisdom and understanding. He gave generously of his time and energy, volunteering with the Lions Club and participating in civic and political life to improve his community.
Above all, DeWayne was a family man—humble, gracious, and deeply kind. He was the cherished patriarch of a large and loving family. He is survived by his loving wife, Judy; his sons Ben, Brett, and Tim; his daughters Julie Bennion, Angela Robinson, Rachelle Stephan, and Heather Bruce; his siblings Jeff, Chris, Linda Phelps, and Maryann Bethea; 28 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. He was dearly loved and will be deeply missed.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on May 10th at 9565 E Larkspur Drive, Scottsdale, Arizona.
In Loving Memory of Katherine Naylor Chappell
Katherine “Kathe” Naylor Chappell, 74, of San Tan Valley, Arizona, passed away peacefully at home on April 29, 2025, surrounded by her five devoted children.
Born in Mesa, Arizona, to Ralph Veldon and Reva May (McBride) Naylor, Kathe was known for her deep love of family, her strong faith, and her generous spirit. On February 5, 1972, she married her sweetheart, Clinton Lee Chappell. One year later, they were sealed in the Mesa, Arizona, Temple, beginning a lifelong journey rooted in love and devotion. Clint preceded her in death by twelve years, and Kathe often spoke of the joyful reunion they now share.
She leaves behind a legacy of love and strength through her children and their spouses: Misty and Eric Selvidge, Timothy and Amy Chappell, Michael and Emily Chappell, Christopher and Jenny Chappell, and Tiffany and John Harman. She was a proud grandmother to nineteen grandchildren and a great-grandmother to one great-grandson. Kathe is also survived by her beloved siblings, Pauline, Barbara, and Doug.
Kathe’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
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.
E. Paul Annison, beloved son, brother, father, and friend, peacefully passed away Monday, April 28 2025, after battling advanced stages of cancer. Born on September 30, 1946, in Los Angeles, California, to Ernest Annison and Kate Jordan, Paul’s was a life marked by family, service, and enduring relationships.
Raised amid the sunny shores of Hermosa Beach, California and later the rapidly growing city of Van Nuys, Paul’s early years were filled with the sound of the ocean waves, the joy of neighborhood friendships, and the enduring influence of his hardworking, kind-hearted parents. As an energetic youth, Paul developed a deep love for the beach, surfing, cars, and the music of the 1950s and 60s—passions that would remain with him throughout his life.
Paul attended Birmingham High School, where he created lifelong friendships and memories that he cherished dearly. After high school, Paul pursued higher education while also working, displaying an early commitment to hard work and personal growth. In 1965, amid the backdrop of the Vietnam War, Paul enlisted in the U.S. Air Force National Guard. It was during this pivotal time that Paul’s spiritual journey began, eventually leading him to embrace religion in a deeper way and become a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Soon after becoming a member of the LDS church, Paul served a two-year mission for his church in Germany. This was a life-changing experience for Paul in so many ways. Those who knew Paul, often heard him share stories and found memories of his time in Germany. His faith and commitment to church service would remain as constants through his adult life.
After returning from his mission, Paul embarked on a career in the pharmaceutical industry, where his determination and people skills earned him top accolades and corporate awards. It was during this chapter of his life that he met and fell in love with Katherine Carter. Their bond was immediate and strong, leading to marriage and ultimately a large family, including six children.
Paul was a devoted husband and father, finding great joy in his family. His love for his family and his relationships with his loved ones was a great source of happiness to him. Whether coaching, teaching, or simply spending quality time with his family, Paul worked hard to always put them first.
Throughout his life, Paul remained a dedicated member of his church community, serving in various capacities and strived to lift and inspire those around him. He loved studying and teaching gospel topics and enjoyed helping others to grow their faith in Christ and build their relationships with Him.
Paul’s life was evidenced by profound love for God, family and his country. His memory will live on in the countless lives he touched and in the enduring legacy he leaves behind.
He is survived by his former wife Katherine, his cherished six children, fourteen grandchildren, and a lifetime of friends who celebrate his life and mourn his passing.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The American Cancer Society, in honor of Paul’s bout with cancer.
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.
Delores Susan Shepherd Miller, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by family in Mesa, AZ on April 30, 2025, at the age of 87.
Born on July 10, 1937, in Montrose, Colorado to Rollins Don Carlos Shepherd and Zelora May Hiett Shepherd, Delores moved with her family to Arizona when she was three years old, where she spent the rest of her life.
She married her high school sweetheart, Revell Kay Miller, Sr., on November 21, 1955, and together they built a life centered on devotion to each other, their family, and their shared faith in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Delores had a deep love for sewing, quilting, crafting, and gardening. She especially loved giving handmade Christmas gifts to all her children and grandchildren each year. She found joy in the beauty of the outdoors and cherished the many road trips she took with Revell in their motor home, exploring nature and church history sites across the country.
She is preceded in death by her loving husband, her parents, her brothers Earl Austin Hiett, Max Shepherd, and Roy Shepherd and her son Robert Lynn Miller.
Delores is survived by her six children: R. Kay (Lorie) Miller, Julie (William) Lovell, Martha Jo Nelson, Kathleen (Ken) Pittam, and Laura (Michael) Shaw; Nyle (Lea) Miller.
She is very proud of her legacy: 7 children, 33 grandchildren, 78 great-grandchildren (#79 coming soon), and two great-great-grandchildren (#3 coming soon).
Her kind smile, unwavering faith, and spirit of service will be remembered and cherished by all who knew her.
Memorial services will be held Saturday, May 10, 2025 at 11:00 am, preceded by a visitation at 10:00 am, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 1455 N. Harris Drive, Mesa, AZ 85203.
For those unable to attend the service in person, it will be viewable through this link: Delores Miller Funeral Service 5/10/25
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.
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear mother, Rita Cox Berthold. Rita died peacefully, with family at her side, on April 23, 2025, at the age of 90.
Born in 1934 in small town Manti, Utah to Elizabeth and Bryon Cox, Mom spent her childhood playing on the family farm in the shadow of her beloved Manti Temple. In 1945, at the age of 11, she moved with her parents and younger brother Scott to Mesa, AZ. She helped to run her family’s grocery store which sat in front of their cobblestone home at the corner of University and Stapley.
Rita quickly adapted to her new environment and made many dear friends at school. While attending Mesa High, she joined just about every club and went to all the social activities. During these years she formed friendships that lasted a lifetime. Rita graduated from Mesa High in 1952, but her heart was forever a Jackrabbit.
Following high school, Rita attended Northern Arizona University where she fell in love with Flagstaff, the mountains, the pines, and the beautiful surroundings. Her affection for nature stayed with her and in later years she would visit Flagstaff every fall to enjoy the autumn leaves.
While attending the Gold and Green Ball in the old Mezona building on Main Street, Rita met her sweetheart James R. Berthold. While it wasn’t love at first sight, they very quickly knew they would be together forever. Jim and Rita were sealed in the Mesa Temple on July 18, 1958, and the following year their first of five children was born. They raised their family in the guiding principles of the LDS faith where Mom lovingly served in a variety of church callings. Mom was a proud descendant of Mormon pioneers, and she and Jim put the LDS church at the center of their home and family.
A lifelong lover of music and dance, Rita encouraged these passions in her children and led by example. She taught piano lessons to the neighborhood kids for many years to help fund a variety of music and dance lessons for her children. She and Dad were square dancing partners who did the do-si-do across Arizona while wearing elaborate costumes Mom had sewn.
Rita loved to travel and had the opportunity to see nearly all 50 states and 12 different countries. She would go with anyone who was going! Once, while in former East Germany, she was briefly detained by German Federal Customs Officers for inadvertently crossing the border before the fall of the Berlin Wall. Luckily, they let her go!
Shortly after their five children had grown up, Rita and Jim found themselves empty nesters. They wasted no time starting a new adventure when they founded the Notary Bond Agency in the early 1990s. Together, they revolutionized the way bonds were sold in the state of Arizona. After Jim’s passing in 2004, Rita continued to lead the agency for many years. She enjoyed the work as well as the camaraderie she shared with colleagues and clients alike.
Rita will be lovingly remembered by her children Shelley (Thomas) Farnan, Keith (Susan) Berthold, Kimberly (Michael) Britten, Nancy Berthold, and Heidi (Brandon) Jared. Rita was a loving grandmother and great-grandmother. She was preceded in death by her husband, James R. Berthold; parents, Byron and Elizabeth Cox; and her brother Scott.
A visitation will be held Friday, May 9, 2025, from 5-7 p.m. at the Bunker Garden Chapel, 33 North Centennial Way, Mesa, Arizona. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 10 a.m. at the same location. Interment will take place afterward at the Mesa City Cemetery.
Rita was an avid animal lover, never without a pet cat or dog. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Arizona Animal Welfare League, aawl.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.
Barbara Anne Shreeve. Age 85 of Henderson Nevada passed away Friday, April 18th, 2025, at Sunset 6:36pm in Las Vegas, Nevada. Barbara Anne Shreeve was born in Monticello, UT. In San Juan County on Thursday April 11th, 1940.
Barbara Anne (Thompson) Shreeve was the daughter id a wheat farmer and a member of 4H and raised many young baby lambs. One was her favorite named snowball. Barbara married her high school sweetheart, Merelyn Alexander Shreeve on Saturday Feb. 16th, 1957. Merelyn and Barbara Anne were separated for the first year of their marriage while Merelyn was drafted into the Untied Staes Air Force and stationed in Okinawa, Japan. Barabara finished her Senior year in High school, worked and attended Redlands College for one year. Merelyn returned one year later, and they lived in Tucson, AZ stationed at David Monthan AFB. Barbara and Merelyn built and raised a family of six children and found joy in camping, fishing, and accomplishing family projects. Barbara owned and operated an LDS bookstore that also sold Sam Andy Dried canned foods. They also sold Mill and mix wheat grinders and bread mixers. Barbara worked and supported her husband who owned a cable TV instillation company and Earth Excavation company. Barbara loved spending time with her Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren.
Barbara Anne Shreeve was a lifelong member of the Church f Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She served in many callings in the Women’s Relief Society, Young Women’s Stake RS, and Stake Young Women’s. She served as a Den Mother in the scouting Program and attended the Jamboree with many troops/ She was known for teaching the boys how to make fried bread and fried pies and earning their badges, and Eagle Scout awards. After moving to Alaska in 1982 Barbara worked for the Matanuska Su-Stina School District to test children that have Autism or special needs. She had a passion for knowing and recognizing different plants, animals, flowers, and insects. She loved to make silk flowers arrangements for weddings and friends. She was an avid reader. She loved music, singing and helping youth groups with skits and plays. The Song Buttons and Bows or You Are My Sunshine were two favorites. She is proceeded in death by her husband Merelyn Alexander Shreeve, her daughter, Minday Cecile Shreeve (Freeman), Daniel Goodman (Son-in-law), Cecil Williams Thompson (father), Barbara Western Thompson (Mother), Joseph Melvin Thompson (Brother), Frances Aurelia Thompson (Sister).
Barbara is survived by Miriam Mamani (Jesus) Weston Nicol Shreeve (Robin), Devonn Alice Goodman, Sharice Shreeve Pierce (Tyler), Dan Hamblin Shreeve (Carmel).
Funeral Services will be held in Mesa, AZ. Harmony Ward Building- 940 E Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ 10 AM Viewing 10:45AM Family Prayer. 11-12:15PM Funeral Service/ Celebration of Life in the Chapel Area. Interment at City of Mesa Cemetery at 12:30PM 1212 N Center Street, Mesa, AZ. There will be a luncheon served back at the Harmony Ward following the Burial.
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.
James (Jim) Draper, 89, passed away peacefully on April 25, 2025 in Gilbert AZ.
He was born to Dude and Donna Draper in Pima Arizona on January 28, 1936.
Jim led an exciting and fulfilling life filled with service, family, friends and travel. In 1957, he married Carlene Taylor, and they were blessed to celebrate over 67 years together.
Jim served for over 22 years in the US Navy as part of the submarine fleet and over twenty years in the power industry after military retirement.
Jim and Carlene raised 4 children: Bob Draper (Kathleen) of Gilbert AZ, Rhonda Hawkins (Randy) of Pima AZ, Danette Stoepfel (Mike) of Mesa AZ and Jason Draper of Mesa AZ. His legacy will continue through 8 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
A grave site service to celebrate his life will be held May 3, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Pima AZ Cemetery.
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.
Arizona Obituaries And Obituary Archive
At Bunker Family Funerals & Cremation, we cherish each unique life, considering it special and sacred. Our obituary archive allows you to explore the obituaries of those we’ve had the privilege to care for, and gives you the chance to share thoughts, messages, or stories with their families.
Use our search function to find a specific obituary, or contact us if you’d like to have your loved one’s obituary hosted on our site.
Let us help you honor their legacy.
Celebrate your loved one’s life however you see fit. At Bunker, we’re committed to helping you. With decades of experience serving families like yours, we can guide you in the right direction to set up a fitting tribute to the special person you have lost.