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Mary Jo was born on February 07, 1935, in Joplin Missouri. She left this world peacefully on January 01, 2022, two months before her 87^th birthday. She has now been reunited with the love of her life of 57 years, Alan Ramsdell, who preceded her in death in Sept. 2019.  Also preceding her in death were her dad, Preston Hutcheson Sr., Mom, Maude Hutcheson, brother Preston Hutcheson, Jr. and sister, Maebell.

Mary Jo graduated from Monterey High School, CA in 1953 and then attended Biola University, CA to become a teacher.

She met Alan Ramsdell at the First Baptist Church in Seaside, CA.  Alan was drafted into the U.S. Army and was stationed at Fort Ord near Monterey, California. They were married on June 10, 1962, at the same church where they met.  In 1964, after Alan was discharged from the Army, they moved to Mesa, AZ where they had their home built.  Mary Jo continued teaching after she moved to Mesa and taught second grade in the Mesa School District.

Mary Jo has been Membership Chair, secretary of the Board and has been the editor of the Society newsletter for the Caledonian Society of Arizona, while Alan served as president during two terms.  She also loved reading books and read several every month.  She and her husband Alan also loved music and sang in various choirs. Mary Jo & Alan never had children, but their “Kids” were dogs and cats throughout their married life. Her latest three “Kids” (cats), Lucky, Celeste and Destiny.

She leaves a special niece Margaret (Sweeney) Lucey of Newburyport, Massachusetts and her husband Fred, a wonderful sister-in-law Penny Ramsdell of Baton Rouge, LA, very special friends Carole Anne Venturelli of Sacramento, CA, Danene Richardson, and Diana Lagarde of AZ, and many other friends.

A memorial service will be held on February 19, 2022, 11 AM at:

Salvation Army Chapel, 241 E. 6th Street, Mesa, AZ

(Donations can be made to the Salvation Army at this same address in Mary Jo’s memory.)

Franklin W. Jackson, 89, died unexpectedly January 29^th, 2022, at Banner Desert Hospital after a brief acute illness.  He was born November 2^nd, 1932, in Groomsville, IN, the son of Lora E. Jackson and Nollie I. Jarrett.

Frank graduated from Kokomo High School in Kokomo, Indiana. He obtained an M.B.A. through Indiana Wesleyan University. Following H.S. graduation, he married Barbara Ann Pickering and they lived in Indiana but resided in Arizona in later years. He served in the U.S. Navy in Washington, D.C. as a cartographer and member of the Honor Guard. He worked for several years in foundry engineering.

He was proficient with computers following local and national politics on-line. He was also an excellent wood worker.  He was a long-time member of the First United Methodist church and enjoyed Bible study.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a sister, Dee. He is survived by his wife, Barbara (Pickering) Jackson and his two sons, Jeffrey W. Jackson and Steven L. Jackson both of Indiana as well as grandchildren Christopher L. Jackson, Benjamin W. Jackson and Allyson R. (Jackson) Baughman of Indiana as well as two great grandchildren.

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.

Gordon Robert Demarest, 96, of Mesa Arizona passed away on January 26, 2022. Born October 11, 1925 in Kalamazoo Michigan. He also lived in Florida,  Phoenix, and Michigan.  He was the second of ten children born to James Albert and Orba Demarest. He was a WW II Veteran enlisting in 1944. He was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Mesa, Arizona. He is survived by two children, six step children, numerous grandchildren, two sisters, two brothers, and numerous nieces and nephews. He enjoyed traveling, dancing, singing, teaching and calling square dancing, aviation, and genealogy. He was a lover of people and life. A Graveside service will be held on Wednesday, February 9, at 2 pm at National Memorial Cemetery- 23029 N Cave Creek Rd. Phoenix, Az.85024

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.

Diann Louise Haws, 79, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2022. She was born to Samuel and Lillian Bender on January 19, 1943, in Mesa, Arizona and she was the oldest of their two children. She grew up in the Lutheran faith and later joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Diann graduated from Mesa High School in 1961 and later attended Arizona State University. She had an assortment of jobs including working at Valley National Bank, court reporting, a newspaper route with the Arizona Republic, and most recently was retired from Mesa Public Schools transportation, but her favorite calling in life was that of a mother and grandmother. She loved doing crafts and was a skilled painter, she did a lot of sewing for her children when they were younger, she enjoyed church activities, and always looked forward to family get-togethers. She was also very supportive of her children’s sports activities and attended every game, recital, performance, and competition that she could. 

On August 30, 1963, she married Gordon Haws. They spent their lives in Mesa, Arizona working hard to raise their four children until Gordon passed in 1997. Diann remained in Mesa, and because she spent most of her 79 years living in the same place, she developed many wonderful relationships within the community. 

Diann was preceded in death by her husband, Gordon; and her parents, Samuel and Lillian. She is survived by her brother, Larry Bender of Knoxville, Tennessee; her children Kurt (Shari) of Ogden, Utah; Karl (Mitzi) of Howell, Michigan; Kristen Barringer of Mesa; and Kasey of Mesa; and her grandchildren Caden (Anna), Luke, Kira, Bailey, Madilyn, Zander, Cooper, and Tayler.

Funeral services will be held at 12:30pm on Saturday February 5th at the LDS chapel located at 2228 E. Brown Rd. Mesa, AZ 85213, with a visitation beginning one hour prior at 11:30. Burial will take place 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

Bruce H. Juhl, Mesa, Arizona passed away on January 25th, 2022. Bruce was born to Ulrick and Pauline “Bonnie” Juhl, in Estherville, Iowa on January 19th, 1954.

Bruce enjoyed going to the gym and lifting weights while listening to The Doors. At home he loved spending time with his family.

Bruce was proceeded in death by his parents Ulrick and Bonnie Juhl, and his son Corey Juhl.

Bruce is survived by his wife of 28 years, Teresa Juhl, daughter, Alicia Eckenrode and step-children, Tami Bromley, Chandra Rubio, Jarrod Hall and 8 grandchildren who all loved him tremendously and will greatly miss him.

A celebration of life will be planned at a later date.

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

Live Stream Link To View Service:

http://mywebcast.churchofjesuschrist.org/mesaarizonastake

Ned Simmons Brimley, our beloved father passed away peacefully January 25, 2022, surrounded by the love and laughter of his family. Dad was born January 11, 1943, in Salt Lake City, UT to Nedra Simmons. He married Arlene Evans on August 22, 1969, in the Mesa Arizona temple. He was a blessing to his family and had a fun-loving and jovial personality.

Ned is preceded in death by his sweetheart Arlene Evans Brimley, his eldest daughter Lanae Brimley Peck, his parents James Clyde and Nedra Brimley and many other beloved family members. He is survived by his daughters Kristen Ashcroft (Ben), and Jana Elcock (Sean) and his sons Brian (Shelly), Spencer (Stephanie) and Evan (Morgan), 22 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

Dad loved telling jokes, visiting with people who came to grab a sub from his business, Ned’s Krazy Sub, as well as serving others and spending time with his family. Dad was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ and an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints all his life. He served in a variety of callings in the church and loved the opportunity to share his faith and testimony in Jesus Christ.

The visitation will be held Thursday, February 10, 2022, from 6-8 p.m., at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Mesa Stake Center Chapel, 1050 S. Hobson, Mesa, AZ.  Funeral services will be held Friday, February 11, 2022, at 11:00 a.m., with a brief visitation from 9:30-10:30 am prior to the service. We want to thank family and friends for their prayers and love on behalf of our father.

Funeral arranged by Bunker’s Garden Chapel and interment will be at the Mesa City 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.

Donna Faye Christensen Molgard 78 Mesa, Az

May 1^st 1943-January 19^th 2022

Our Mother, Sister, Daughter, Grandmother, and Friend, Joined Our heavenly Father.

Donna was born May 1^st 1943 to parents Wendell Christensen and Mother Doris Farnsworth.  She married Jimmy Lynn Molgard in Elko Nevada 1964. They raised 4 children, Steven V. , Laurie D., Jimmy L., Michael L.

Donna was an active and faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She was also a proud member of the John Birch Society, and Lifetime member of Beta Sigma Phi International Sorority.

She was a passionate reader, a book in progress of being enjoyed in every room in her home. An avid genealogist, loved game nights, with word games on the top of her list. Creative, kind, witty, and a caretaker to any in need. She resided in Utah, California and Arizona.  She loved to travel with trips to Portugal, Acapulco, Alaska, and Cabo, to name a few.  She also loved road trips, hitting tourist spots and scenic adventures.  Made many lifetime friends and will be so missed.

Preceded in Death and will be joining her Parents, Wendell Christensen and Doris Farnsworth. Her Husband Jimmy Lyn Molgard. and her youngest son Michael Lee Molgard.

Leaving behind, her sister Kenna Hurst and husband Chuck Hurst, and their children, Brian, Stephanie, and Jennifer; Brothers Leland Christensen, and Gary Christensen and partner Hazel.

Surviving Children Steven Molgard and his wife Carra Molgard; Laurie Donnette and fiancé Stephen Boyd; Jimmy Lynn and fiancé Kira Welch.

Grand Children, Lance Molgard and wife Isabell Denise; Cameron Quartuccio and wife Talia; Mandy Quartuccio, Joshua Parsons, Ashlee Miller, Michael Lee Molgard Jr and fiancé Marina; Kyle Molgard, Christian Ouguciko, Madison Molgard, and Logan Molgard.

Great grandchildren. Lilith, Averia, Jordan and Abby.(children of Lance and Isabell) Ellie Nicole (daughter of Ashlee Miller) Sophie Parsons ( daughter of Joshua Parsons) Zoey Jo and Jack Wayne Q (daughter and son of Cameron and Talia Quartuccio) Beatriz (daughter of Michael Lee Jr. and fiancé Marina)

So many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. If I could possibly honor her life and passion for family history I would list them all. She loves us all as family!

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, January 29^th at 9:30 a.m. in the 76^th Ward Chapel, 1911 N. 24^th St. Mesa, Arizona.

Her remains and those of her son’s Michael will be laid to rest In Willard Cemetery, Willard, Utah next to her husband Jimmy this summer, and a celebration of life for the two of them is being planned. Details will be provided.

Mom, we are going to miss you more than words can ever say, Our rock! Our friend.

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.

Jason Kenneth Muncy, husband, father, son, brother, cousin, and friend to all, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Mesa, AZ on January 24th, 2022.

Jason is survived by his wife, Angelee Muncy, sons Aedan and Seamus Whitcher and Brian Arciniega and spouse Lindy, parents Ken and Mary Muncy of Gilbert, sister Sarah Muncy of Chandler, nephew Reid Payne, niece Rayna Nuriddin, numerous aunts and uncles, and grandchildren Madison and Gage. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Jim and Opal House and paternal grandparents, Bob and Darlene Muncy.

Jason brought so much joy to his family when he was born on April 19th, 1971 in Fullerton, California. His parents moved to Arizona when Jason was a toddler and his extended family soon followed, as they could not bear to live so far from his bright light. He attended Ida Redbird and Crismon Elementary Schools in Mesa, as well as Rhodes Junior High. He graduated from Dobson High in 1989, where he was known for his contagious smile and lowride custom VW bug. Jason obtained his Bachelor of Science in Education with a minor in Spanish from Northern Arizona University after studying abroad in Cuernavaca, Morelos Mexico. After graduation, Jason worked as a bilingual interpreter for US Airways prior to joining Southwest Airlines. Jason loved working for Southwest, as it allowed him the freedom to use his bilingual skills and connect with people in a meaningful way daily.

After 45 years of waiting for his perfect match, Jason met Angelee, his soul mate, and they married in Puerto Penasco, Mexico, in 2018. Jason welcomed Aedan and Seamus into his home proudly and prided himself in teaching them to be friends to everyone. His sons remember him for his humor and kind nature, and his parents enjoyed a lifetime of adventures with Jason; he was a wonderful son. Jason was not only a brother to Sarah, but also played the role of “big brother” to his numerous cousins; Britney Saito, Wyatt House, Derek Youngberg, Brandi Lerche, Mark Eib and Marcus King, as well as cousins in other states.

Jason was a huge sports fan, frequently wearing the Seahawks team sweatshirt belonging to late friend Chad McAllister on game days. Jason always had a smile on his face and twinkle in his eye, believing that any conflict could be resolved through friendly conversation. He was a true and loyal friend who will be missed by his family, friends, and colleagues at Southwest Airlines. The family would like to thank the entire Southwest family for their love, friendship and support of Jason over the last 20 years.

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.

On January 24, 2022 Jean Ann Frederickson Shupe, 80, returned to her Father in Heaven.

Jean Ann was born in Twin Falls, Idaho on March 22, 1941 to John C. Frederickson and Zelpha Richins. She was the fifth of ten children. Her parents owned Frederickson’s Candy in Twin Falls and Jean Ann was nicknamed Nanny Goat because she helped care for her younger brothers and sister while her parents were at the store.

Jean Ann met Larry Lee Shupe at Brigham Young University and they married on August 23, 1961 in the Salt Lake Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Together they had six children, Larry Wayne (Norma), LeeAnn (Neil Salisbury), Dean (Blythe), Arlen (Kristen), Libby (Kevin Beeson), and Bradley (Erin). They were the proud grandparents of 27 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren.

Jean Ann and Larry lived in many places while Larry was in the Air Force and later settled in Twin Falls, Idaho. They also spent some years in Mesa, AZ, Las Vegas, NV, Orem, UT, and Fillmore, UT. Jean Ann worked alongside her husband at Frederickson’s Candy and in other business ventures. She went to work for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints while in Las Vegas at Deseret Industries where she trained associates for jobs in food services. She was known for her patience, kindness, and generosity as a trainer and as a work colleague as well as for the delicious food she prepared.

Jean Ann was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She held many church callings including in the Scouting program, primary, and Relief Society.  She and Larry served a mission to the Hill Cumorah Visitor Center in Palmyra, New York. After Larry’s passing, Jean Ann served a second mission to Morristown NJ.

Her children remember her life of service to her family, to the Church, and to strangers. Her home was always open and she loved to have guests over for Sunday dinner. She will be remembered for her unwavering example of faith and perseverance through all of life’s trials.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Larry, her brothers Bryan, George, Richard, and Bob, her sister Alice, and her grand-daughter Taylor Mason.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am at the LDS Church building at 3025 S Hawes Rd Mesa, AZ 85212, with a viewing at 10:00 am.  Interment will be at the Mesa City Cemetery.

Those that wish to attend virtually can join via Zoom with the following link https://byu.zoom.us/j/95372396665

Funeral under the direction of Bunker Family Funeral.  Flowers and condolences may be offered at University Chapel 3529 E. University Dr. Mesa AZ 85213.

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

Keith Krog, 89 passed away peacefully at his residence in Mesa, Arizona on January 24, 2022. He was born to Peter and Jennie Krog in Chamberlin, South Dakota on February 6th, 1932.

Keith grew up in rural Buffalo County, South Dakota. He enjoyed farm life as the youngest of six siblings.  After graduating from High School, he entered the US Navy on January 11, 1951 and was deployed to serve aboard the USS Ozbourn during the Korean Conflict until he was honorably discharged on November 1st, 1954. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion Post #16 in Gann Valley, South Dakota and also a Life Member of the Fraternal Order of Elks Apache Junction, Arizona #2349.

Upon returning from Korea in 1954, he met the love of his life, Ann (Blood) Allbright. They were married on October 10, 1954 and remained so until her death on July 29th, 2007.

Along with Ann’s young son, Phillip, they moved to the family farm in Buffalo County, South Dakota. They remained there until 1962. While there, they were blessed with the birth of their daughter, Brenda on October 12, 1960. They moved to Los Angeles in 1962. He worked for Southern California Gas Company for many years until his retirement, when he and Ann moved to Mesa, Arizona.

Keith was preceded in death by his wife Ann, his parents and five siblings, Dorothy Moss, Bernice Spencer, Kenneth Krog, George Krog and Betty Miskimins.  He is survived by his two children, Jerry Phillip Hawkins (Marta Holt) of Poulsbo, WA and Brenda Teply (Marvin) of Warrenton, MO, and ten grandchildren; Heather Chavez (Charles), Eric Hawkins (Laura), Michael Hawkins (Carrie), Candace Crofoot (Joshua), Nicholas Hawkins (Melissa), Benjamin Hawkins (Karrissa), Jonathon Hawkins (Jessica), Justin Rees (Rachel), Johnny Holloway (Jessica) and Jenifer Tucker (Cody), and eighteen great grandchildren.

Keith was a loving husband and father who believed no sacrifice was too great when it came to providing for and protecting his family.  He enjoyed camping and fishing and visiting friends and family. Keith was known by all to be a quiet, kind, patient man who would readily give a helping hand to anyone in need. Due to his friendly, gentle nature, he was loved and admired by many.

His legacy lives on through his loving family and he is deeply missed.

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.

Molliemae Taylor Johnson Hatch, 101, peacefully passed away Wednesday, January 19, 2022, at her home in Gilbert, Arizona. She was born in Pleasant View, Utah to Harvey Leslie and Lucelle Rhees Taylor May 7, 1920. Most of her life was spent in Arizona, moving to Thatcher in 1927 with her parents, older brother Darrel, and two younger sisters, Janyce and Betty when their father became president of Gila College. The family later moved to Mesa when he became principal and superintendent of Mesa Schools.

Mollie loved life. She loved to learn, excelled in her studies, and enjoyed planning and organizing activities. She adored her parents and siblings and loved being with family and friends. As a young girl she liked to play make-believe which included building air castles (dreams). She had such a great attitude, saying the castles were often broken but were fun to rebuild. She always seemed to make the best of things, moving forward with a happy heart.

She studied education and home economics at Arizona State Teachers College (now ASU) in Tempe and became an excellent homemaker and master teacher during her 20 years of teaching in the Mesa Public Schools.

The wife of Harvey M. Johnson, she enjoyed living on Desert Crest Dairy Farm where Harvey, along with his parents, L. Angus and Romie Johnson, raised award- winning Ayrshire cattle.  Mollie was a wonderful homemaker where she spent many hours cooking delicious meals for her four children, sewing beautiful dresses for her daughters, and creating a loving and peaceful environment where her children could thrive. The family enjoyed many desert picnics and Mollie was enthralled by the colorful Arizona sunsets and beauty of the desert. She was always thankful for the majesty of God’s creations.

In 1980 Mollie met Aquilla S. Hatch, in the Mesa LDS temple where Mollie was serving.  Within 7 months they were married.  Mollie retired from teaching school and moved with Quill to Taylor, AZ.  After nearly 20 years they moved back to Mesa and then to Gilbert where Quill passed in 2006.  They had many happy years together.  Quill’s family loved Mollie and she loved them, she being the only grandmother most of the grandchildren ever knew.  Their union brought a special loving relationship between the Hatch and the Johnson families that will be eternal.

Mollie loved to read, play games and be with family. It was always evident she loved each one individually and dearly. All her life Mollie showed grace and dedication to her family and associates. She was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many callings, including a mission to Nauvoo, Illinois with Quill.  She was always a true and steady example of a Christ-like life.

A kind and gracious lady, Mollie was dearly loved and respected by all who knew her. She will be profoundly missed, but her sweet influence will live on.

Molliemae is preceded in death by husbands Harvey Johnson and Aquilla Hatch. She leaves behind a rich legacy to her children, Diane Maloy (Bill-deceased), Cathy Wheeler (Doug-deceased), Thomas (Joy), Becky Porter (Kimball), 15 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by stepchildren Rosemarie Jarvis (Marvin), Dale (Pam)-both deceased, Theron (Anna), Lorin (Lina), Doris Lunt (Larry), 28 grandchildren, 92 great-grandchildren, and 35 great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral Services are scheduled for Saturday, February 12 at 10:00 AM with visitation from 9-9:45 (closed casket), at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 234 N. Greenfield Rd. Gilbert, AZ 85234. Services may be streamed from the link below:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82035173759

Interment: Reed Hatch Memorial Cemetery, 400 Center Street, Taylor, AZ 85939 Monday, February 14, 2022 at 1:00 PM

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.

Mary Velasco Sternberg, a resident of Mesa, Arizona, passed away peacefully in Scottsdale, on January 4, 2022, after a brief illness. She was born July 30, 1929, in Amsterdam, New York to Angel and Isabel Velasco. Mary attended Amsterdam High School and then Amsterdam School of Commerce. She worked for General Electric and Brunswick over the course of many years. Mary enjoyed cooking for others, sewing, current events, and was an avid reader. She was preceded in death by her husband Clarence Marcus Sternberg, her brothers John Alvarez (Teresa) and Frank Alvarez (Bobby). Mary is survived by her sons Lawrence Marcus Sternberg and James Paul Sternberg (Allison), grandchildren, Stephen, Jameson, and Jack Sternberg, her sister, Juana Maliszewski, and many nieces and nephews. Mary was a kind, loving, independent, strong and courageous woman who always put others first. She was witty and playful and brought a smile to those who knew her. Mary will be missed dearly by her family and friends.

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:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9154321981?pwd=YkVWZ3BlTS9lTGUwZmdWclQyK3dRdz09
Meeting ID: 915 432 1981,    Passcode: lazonaward

Shesten Bri Melder, 40, passed away, January 19, 2022, in her home with family and close friends near by. She was fighting a long hard battle with colon cancer, a valiant warrior to the end. Shesten was the first child born, November 24, 1981, to Toni Louise (Berg) Robie and John (J. R.) Frederick Robie. She was happy and active. She was excited to have a little brother coming almost when she was 4 years old so she could play with his toys.

She learned how to work early in life at the family fast food restaurant, J.R.’s Fish Chips, in Gilbert, AZ. She loved to take and serve orders and prided herself in making the correct change to the customers! She was a beautiful girl with very expressive eyes. She was known to even scare teachers with her “Robie-Eye” stare.

At 11 years old she fell in love with basketball. She was a starter on the 11 year old Girl’s Wham basketball team which won the State Championship. This began her basketball “career”. She attended basketball camps and clinics and continued to improve her skills in the game she loved so much. At 13 she was a starter on the Scottsdale Community College Summer Team. She had to be a student at SCC and began her college education at 13. taking the class of basketball each semester. She played in college tournaments in Oregon, North and South California, Nevada, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. She often was leading in assists, blocks and rebounds. She shot 3 pointers, layups, and had a beautiful jump shot. She played tough and received awards for her efforts as well as sportsmanship. She played on the varsity teams in high school for Mesa High and Dobson High. She was injured with a complete ACL tear and after 3 surgeries had to give up playing her favorite game. She graduated from Dobson High School with academic honors. She attended Scottsdale and Mesa Community Colleges and earned her Associates Degree with honors and more than enough hours. She found the man she wanted to spend Eternity with, Devin Shane Melder, and married him on May 30, 2003. She was a fan of Lacrosse and Baseball and enjoyed going to the games.

She loved hiking with her husband! They loved taking pictures of Shesten in scary poses, especially to send to her Mom. Her favorite place to hike was Zion National Park and the Superstition Mountain hiking trails were often frequented by her. She loved to travel. She had plans to hike at all the National Parks, to travel in Europe and visit many places in the world. She went on Safari in South Africa with her husband and his family. But she went exploring the area where there were no animals to hunt. She, Devin and Tennyson went to Budapest, Hungary and Prague, Czech Republic and traveled the surrounding areas and enjoyed it immensely. She went on a national historic trip to Atlantic City, New Jersey and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and the surrounding historical sites with her Mom and taught her Mom about our American History. They had so many great experiences together.

She enjoyed working. She was the Training Director for Ticketmaster and traveled to many cities planning, organizing, and negotiating for Ticketmaster. She left Ticketmaster and started her own business as an event planner. She planned many events. She started an online fashion jewelry and accessories shop, Swoon, and had “pop-up” events all over Mesa with her best friend from high school. They also started MADE: A local Market, an event for craters to sell their wares. These were large events in the Mesa Convention Center and also in other areas around the East Valley. She loved being an entrepreneur. Most of all she loved her family, especially her little daughter, Tennyson! She is the love of her life.

She fought the hard battle with cancer to be with her Tenzibelle for as long as she could. Shes enjoyed the times they would snuggle together and watch movies or TV series and then talk about them. She gave her the best birthday parties and was always teaching her about the things she wanted her to know. She was influential in many peoples lives. She loved helping and counseling with others, giving support wherever it was needed.

She is a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She often discussed her beliefs with others. She held many various callings, Primary Teacher, Sunday School Teacher, Young Women’s Leader, Relief Society Teacher, Relief Society Activities Leader. And Ward Missionary.

She was a forever student of life. She loved to read and loved to learn. She had a literary blog, Literologie, where she wrote honest reviews and had discussions of young adult books. She was well-respected in this adventure, as in all that she did. Publishing houses and authors would send books for her honest reviews. Some authors had her edit some of their books. She loved doing this and has a great library of young adult books. She was an excellent writer herself, but never published any of her works. She had to end this part of her life when the chemotherapy effected her eyes and made it difficult to read.

She loved to cook and bake and try different and exotic foods. She enjoyed trying new restaurant adventures with her Mom after treatments while she could still eat. They found many wonderful restaurants and shared their experiences with others. She loved playing the game, King of Avalon and had many friends from all over the world. She was always helping them with negotiations and marches that could win big.

She is survived by her loyal and loving husband of 18 ½ years, Devin Shane Melder and their daughter, Tennyson Celeste Melder, her parents, J. R. and Toni Robie, her brother, J. Rett Robie and sister-in-law, Heather Marie Robie and niece, Annabelle Lee Robie. Her maternal grandparents, Arthella Dees Berg and Anton Roy Berg and paternal grandparents, Faye Catherine (Taylor) Robie and Everett Gaye Robie preceded her in death. She will be greatly missed by many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

She was a unique, lovely, caring person who loved to give service and help others. Her generous spirit was kind but she did not like to be thought of as nice. She could hold her own with anyone and often did. She was a strong advocate of “Girl Power” and helped enable other women to know of their own worth and power. She was and is a powerful force for good.

Her Graveside Service will be Friday, January 28th, 2022, 10 AM at the Mesa City Cemetery. That evening, starting at 5PM in the Cultural Hall of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on the corner of Barkley and Sixth Ave in Mesa, AZ, will be a Celebration of Life party she planned for her family and friends. She wanted them to celebrate and not be sad. She planned some of her favorite things to be shared at this last celebration event. For those who are unable to attend either event, the Lazona Ward is providing them through Zoom.

This is the link for both events. Join Zoom Meeting  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9154321981?pwd=YkVWZ3BlTS9lTGUwZmdWclQyK3dRdz09
Meeting ID: 915 432 1981,    Passcode: lazonaward

Shesten has requested that all her family and friends write some memories and experiences that you have had with her and send them to her family so that they can compile them into a book for her daughter Tennyson to learn more about the life of her Mother.

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.

Live Stream Link To View Service:
https://youtu.be/rNQ_-hj3oRk

“A Humble, Gentle, Loving Man”
Medford Darrell Howell, 78, of Heber-Overgaard, Arizona, passed away  unexpectedly on January 14th, 2022. He slipped away peacefully in his sleep and was found by his loving neighbors Brent and Kelly Rasmussen after they were called by his son, Dustin Lee Howell.

“Veteran, Welder, Outdoorsman”
Darrell Howell was born on December 14th, 1943 in Phoenix, Arizona. Darrell left Carl Hayden High School at the age of 17 to join the Navy and serve his Country. After two tours in Vietnam, he met the love of his life, Dreama Balke on Christmas Eve of 1964 and married 5 weeks later. In October 1972, they adopted their only son, Dustin Lee Howell. The loving couple spent 47 years together before Dreama passed away on October 18th, 2012. Darrell enjoyed his career as a welder and teacher. His love of baseball drove him to coach little league. One of his biggest passions was hunting and fishing. He and his son, Dustin loved to hunt together. His biggest love in the end was his grandson, Sawyer. He is now united with God and his beloved wife, Dreama. He will be dearly missed.

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 L Fleagle, aka (Dick) 87, of Mesa, Az, passed on peacefully at Mt. Vista Medical center, January 10, 2022.  He was predeceased by his parents, wife of 61years(Marydel Fleagle,(Messer), and 2nd of three Sons Dennis Fleagle.  Richard Fleagle is survived by Sons, Duane Fleagle(Karen) & Alan Fleagle(DiAnna).  Grand children: (Duane’s) Dallas, Reed, Jake.  (Dennis) Keith Fleagle (Bonn).  (Alan’s) Carolyn Shelly, and five great grandchildren.

A celebration of Life (date to be determined) will be held at a private residence.  An Urn has been hand crafted by Duane Fleagle as a memorial to Dad.  Richards Urn (along with his Wife’s and Son’s) will be delivered to Winfield, Iowa for burial in the family plot there.

Expressions of sympathy may be posted at Bunkerfuneral.com, University chapel, 3529 E. University Dr., Mesa, AZ,85213, 480-830-4105.  University@Bunkerfuneral.com.  Alan Fleagle on Facebook.  For more info contact Duane Fleagle, Fleagle123@msn.com.  Call,text, e-mail Alan Fleagle, 480-332-5500, alanmail7@gmail.com.

Richard was born December 13,1934 in Burlington, Iowa, to parents Dallas & Mabel Fleagle.  Relocated to  Winfield Iowa, where he graduated from Winfield High school, learned the family plumbing business (Fleagle Plumbing) which he worked together with his parents for many years.

As a young man growing up in Winfield he loved fishing, trapping, hunting ducks, geese, pheasant, and squirrel with his dad.  He often spoke fondly of cool mornings in the forest with his Dad on the hunt.

Married Marydel Messer of White oak, Henry county, Iowa, August 1956.

Veteran: drafted in the Army he was stationed in Germany then honorably discharged Dec 1958.

Relocated to Mesa, Arizona in 1966 with his wife and three sons, he enjoyed hunting and fishing in the vast expanses of the southwest with his boys.  Deer, Elk, squirrel, javelina, bear and Bass fishing were his favorite hobbies.  Dad always loved watching college and pro sports too, even made a comment about a game on tv to his family in his final hours.

What can I say?, No words will suffice.  Thank you Dad!

Thanks for coming to Az to save my life.  For teaching me how to work, trap, hunt & fish, for always reminding me to keep insurance, for all the jokes and laughter.  For the many great hunting & fishing trips from the desert to the high mountains of Az.  Thanks for keeping us safe and coming to our rescue when we needed you. Thanks for the discipline and guidance we needed to grow into manhood.  Did you have any shortcomings?, who the heck doesn’t?.  We all fall short of the Kingdom of Heaven, and we feel so very blessed to have had you as our Father and mentor.

With Gods never ending Love for his children, I’m sure that that peace and calmness are yours now within the divine light of our Creators all knowing presence.  With all our Love, we wish you quiet eternal rest, goodbye and God bless you Daddy.

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.