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Charismatic, joyful, and full of life, Deanne DeWitt Gardner learned early that life was better when filled with family, faith, and a good dose of mischief. Born in 1938 to Frank and Margaret DeWitt, Dede grew up in Mesa, Arizona, graduating from Mesa High School in 1956. In 1958, she married Del Gardner, beginning a partnership built on teamwork, shared beliefs, and a love of sports.

Dede’s home was more than a house; it was a haven—where reality TV marathons were sacred, blackjack was serious business, and there was always ice cream waiting in the freezer. She also had a zest for life. Famously, Dede survived being hit by a train—an event that would have shaken most people, but for her became a hilarious story to retell, complete with sound effects, dramatic gestures, and the reminder that she was, clearly, invincible.

Dede spent her life in service to others — through a long career in banking, as a beloved bus monitor for special needs students, and through countless acts of quiet kindness within her church. But her true calling was people. She had a gift for remembering, encouraging, and lifting others, always reflecting back the best within them. Everyone she met was treated like family, and once you were part of her circle, you were loved for life.

Her nurturing spirit, fierce loyalty, and infectious laughter leave a lasting legacy. To be part of Dede’s family—by blood or by choice—meant being loved forever, without condition and without end.

Dede was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, whose life was an unparalleled example of generosity, resilience, and joy. She is survived by her children and their families: Marcy and Richard Gooch (grandchildren Tatum and Zane), Brent and Dina Gardner (grandchildren Dustin, Bree, Dani, Braydon, and Bailey), Dirk and Sharla Gardner (grandchildren Emmi, Beau, Sam, and Ben) and her 17 great grandchildren.

She is also survived by her beloved sister, Garna Randall, and by a wide circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who were blessed to know her and carry her love forward.

Deanne was preceded in death by her husband, Del Gardner; her parents, Frank DeWitt and Margaret Wright DeWitt; and her sisters Sharlene Bouldin, Marsha Turk, Brenda DeWitt, and Vicki Gephart—who were not just sisters but best friends through every season of their journey.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025, at 12:00 p.m., with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m., at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 848 North Westwood, Mesa, Arizona.

Henry Lorenzo Rose, 75, passed away on April 24, 2025, at his home in San Tan Valley, AZ. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Henry Lorenzo and Cynthia Rose; his aunts, Emily Butcher, Eulalia Butcher, and Wilma (Charles) Monlouis; his uncle, Carl Butcher; and two sisters, Frances (William) Holmes and Carolyn Rose. Surviving Henry are his wife of 51 years, Debra; daughter, Melisa Rose, and spouse, Darrin Cullop; brother-in-law, William Holmes; uncle, Charles Monlouis; nieces, Erika (Robert) Arnhart and Erinn Holmes; nephew, Henry Holmes (Lyndsay); four great-nieces and one great-nephew; and cousin, Emilie Monlouis.

Henry was a native of Panama City, Panama where he began his piano studies at age 4. He devoted his entire life to the study, performance, composition, and teaching of classical piano. While working on his DMA in Piano Performance at ASU, Henry joined the Music Department at South Mountain Community College in Phoenix where he taught for 25 years. Henry was also one of the founding members of the Young Artists Committee (YAC) whose mission was to provide a state-wide piano competition and an opportunity to perform for students aged 6-18 years.

After retiring in 2012, Henry and his wife, Debra, moved to Panama. There, Henry helped grow the Pianist’s Association and co-founded the Young Pianists Competition, a project developed to give back to the piano community of teachers and students in his home country.

Henry was dearly loved by his friends, colleagues, and most of all, his family.  His musical legacy, along with the joy he brought through his humor and storytelling will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

To commemorate its 10th anniversary, the Young Pianists Competition in Panama is establishing two annual prizes in honor of Henry.  In lieu of flowers, the Rose family requests donations be made to the Henry Rose Award Fund at www.henryrosetribute.com in support of these prizes which will be awarded to the Elementary and Senior students in the competition.

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.

Leroy Billy Williams, 83, passed away on April 22, 2025, in Mesa, Arizona at his home. Bill led a very happy, active life, filled with family, friends, and many activities, which included serving his country in the Navy.

Bill worked with the Forest Lakes Fire Department, Forest Lakes Water Department, ADOT, Game and Fish Department, as a backhoe operator, and as a carpenter. He enjoyed spending time with his wife Amy (married 64 years), fishing, crawdad-ing, exploring the outdoors, western movies (all on VHS!), collecting antiques and spending time with his children, Rebecca Johnson, Shane Williams (Scott), Liberty Morehead (Bill), grandchildren Autumn Kendall, September Saros (Pat), Hunter Williams (Monica), Aspen Frahm (Carson) and great-grandchildren Patience Kendall, Temperance Kendall, Savanna Williams, Cash Saros, and Atlas Saros.

He will be remembered for his sense of humor, love of family, gardening (tomatoes), making goat cheese, cooking divinity and tamales, canning, watching gas prices for the best deal, obsessing with the weather reports, building his cabin in Forest Lakes, and watching the quail at Tonto Basin.

A celebration of his life, for family and friends, will be held at the Saros home located at 1017 E. 7th Place, Mesa, AZ 85203, on Saturday, May 3rd, from 10am-1pm.

**RSVP’s to Shane Williams (480-703-7945) are appreciated by Wednesday, April 30th. Light lunch and beverages will be served.

It is with deep sorrow that we announced the passing of Steven “Steve” Michael Harris. Our beloved husband, father, son, brother, and faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Steve returned to his Heavenly Father on April 21st, 2025, at the age of 65.

Steve is survived by his wife Dawnette, sons Jacob and Zachary, his mother, siblings and extended family who will carry his memory in their hearts forever. Steve is preceded in death by his father, Irwin “Bing” Harris, and his father-in-law, Richard “Dick” Stapley.

**A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 26th at the Hillcrest Ward Meeting house, 2424 N Old Gilbert Road, Mesa, AZ 85213, at 11:30 AM. All who knew and loved Steve are welcome to attend and celebrate his life.

Born April 14, 1960, in Ridgecrest, California, as Steve used to tell it, he was the consummate gentleman allowing his twin sister, Suzanne “Suzie” Phillips, to go first. Steve was born a few minutes later. Over the years, Steve further honed his social graces and was known for his genuine caring, gracious spirit, devotion to his family, service in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, great laugh and sense of humor, and a wonderful zest for life that touched all who knew him.

Steve’s formative years were spent between California and Wyoming where he enjoyed everything from sailing and fishing to four-wheeling and target practice. Steve married and was sealed to his best friend Dawnette and made a wonderful home for Jacob, Zach and the family in Mesa, Arizona.

Until more recent years, Steve’s passion was teaching the church youth and discussing the gospel principles. He served in the bishopric and was very involved with his sons and their friends in scouting. Seeing the boys off to college, and after years of research and hard work and expanding their home-grown water purification consultant business for small rural communities, Steve was looking forward to spending more time traveling and business-related opportunities with Dawnette.

Yet, with a series of strokes in early 2022, the last few years have been dedicated to Steve’s treatment and rehabilitation. Where doctors gave little hope, Steve surpassed physical and mental milestones. Along with the support of family, therapists, nurses and close friends, Steve persevered and exceeded everyone’s expectations. He fought a good fight!

Steve – our husband, father, son, brother, and friend – we will miss you so very, very much we all look forward to the time when we will be together with you again.

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

It is with a broken heart that we announce the passing of David Harry Henderson, 76 – also affectionately known as Grandpa, Poppi, and Davis. He passed away peacefully on April 13, 2025.

David was born on Oct. 26, 1948, in Gunnison, Colorado the oldest of four. At an early age, David learned the importance of community and quickly became involved in leadership positions in school and church. As an adult, he put these skills to good use as a teacher and a Uniserve Director in Colorado and in Mesa’s MEA/MESPA teacher/support personnel organization. After many years, David needed a new challenge and started Red Mountain Management serving many HOA communities in the Valley. In these roles, as in life, he always was an advocate, a mentor and a caring friend.

David lived life to the fullest. As a young man, in the early 70’s, he spent an adventurous summer hitchhiking through Europe with a close friend. In addition to traveling, he loved to read, golf, attend theater/musical events, tinker in the garage and yard, watch AZ sports and movies, and share a great meal. His greatest joy was spending time with family and friends, always making little ones laugh with delight. David believed that how you live your life is what truly matters.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Henderson, and mother, Betty Henderson (Kreider).

David is survived by his loving partner in life, Isabel Chanley; his daughter, Erin (David); his also-children Jesse and Laura (Colby); his sisters Diedre (Gary), Becky, and Berta Jo (Dan); 14 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many other family members and friends who will forever feel his absence, his quick smile, and warm hugs.

A celebration of life will be held on Sat., May 3 at 10:00 am at Bunker Family University Chapel 3529 E. University Dr. Mesa, AZ 85213. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to: A New Leaf, Phoenix Children’s Hospital, United Food Bank, or Mesa United Way.

David was a kind, funny and loving man who dedicated his life to making a difference through kindness, guidance and the sharing of his warm and giving heart. He is leaving his mark on this world and we are all better people for having known him and having been a part of his life.

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.

Jim Toffel, 73, from Mesa Az. passed away on April 16th, 2025.

Jim led a very active life, filled with family and friends. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Alyce, children Danielle Jones (Bill) and Damian Toffel, grandchildren Isabelle, Tyler and Ethan, three sisters: Judy Reller, Donna Scanlon and Peggy Toffel-Hajek (John), his In-laws Butch Wendlandt (Janet), Dennis Wendlandt (Lorae), Selma Kist, Edward Wendlandt, Jan Toffel and many cousins, nephews and nieces. He is preceded in death by Father Walter Toffel, Mother Sally Toffel and brother Dave Toffel.

Jim’s career as a Maintenance Manager took him to MN, N.C., S.C., Florida and back to MN where he retired in 2014. In retirement he was “living the dream” traveling in a 42ft diesel pusher for 6 years before deciding to settle down in Mesa, AZ, his winter home. His summer home is in Clear Lake, MN.

His antics and humor will be missed by so many. According to his wishes no services will be held. In lieu of flowers please make donations to your favorite charities.

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.

Charles was born on August 6, 1950, in Cardston, Alberta Canada to Eldon Gane Olsen and Elizabeth Romeril, the oldest of 6 children. He grew up on a farm and developed a strong work ethic early in life. He earned the Governor General’s award at age 14 for academic excellence and was a provincial chess champion. Charles learned to play the piano at an early age and became a proficient pianist and organist—skills he later passed on to his children alongside his love for chess. He attended Utah State University in Logan, Utah where he graduated Magna Cum Laude with a degree in Physics. He also served a full-time mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints to Central Germany from 1969-1971 where he became fluent in German.

While in college he met Margie Ann Seager at church and they were later married in the Logan, Utah temple, on December 15, 1972. Together they raised 3 children, Anthony (“Tony”), Gerald (“Jerry”), and Wendy. Charles joined IBM as a computer programmer right after college and enjoyed a successful 44-year career until his retirement in 2017. His highly sought-after computer skills led to roles in offices across Iowa, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, and Colorado. IBM asked him to return to Germany on two occasions for an additional 6 years due to his superior skillset with mainframe software design and technical troubleshooting and was invited to train teams in China, Russia, and Singapore. He visited more than 30 countries during his career.

While living in Germany, he led his family on frequent trips around Europe, fueling their appreciation for history and culture. Ever the adventurer, he even traveled beyond the Iron Curtain to Czechoslovakia (now the Czech Republic), Yugoslavia now (Bosnia & Herzegovina), and the Soviet Union (now Russia). He shared memorable travels with Margie to Israel, attended the 1984 Winter Olympics in Sarajevo, and vacations in Hawaii. One memorable trip was when he and his family visited Berlin shortly after the Berlin Wall fell, bringing home pieces they had chipped off.

Later in life, when telecommuting became possible, he and Margie moved to Sarasota, Florida so she could pursue her art degree, and later to Orlando to be near the LDS temple and Disney World. He wholeheartedly supported her love of Disney, and they enjoyed countless visits to the theme parks with their children. Charles concluded his remarkable career in Gilbert, Arizona in 2017.

Charles was active in his LDS faith and served in various roles. He was a former Bishop and member of the Stake Presidency, he also loved serving in the Temple for over 14 years. He was proficient with tools and often helped family and friends with their home improvement projects. He led his family to finish the basement and landscaping of their Colorado home.

Charles loved country/folk music, two of his favorite musicians were John Denver and Neil Diamond. Frequent trips to London, England nurtured his love for the theater. He grew to love musicals like Les Misérables, Phantom of the Opera, and Fiddler on the Roof. He encouraged his family to take part in the Hill Cumorah Pageant in New York for 3 years, profoundly impacting them all. He loved to ski in the Swiss Alps, golf in Colorado, consume ice cream, and preferred his steak cooked medium rare.

Charles passed away on April 15, 2025, in Chandler, AZ. He is preceded in death by his sister Verena, grandson Brian, and his parents Eldon and Elizabeth Olsen. He is survived by his wife Margie, children Tony (Debbie), Jerry (Cheryl), and Wendy (Kevin Wise), 13 grandchildren, 3 step grandchildren, 1 great grandchild, and his 4 siblings Jeanine (Stan), Phil (Erin), Diane (Chuck Lindsey), and David.

Visitation will be held Saturday, April 26,2025, at 10:00am.

Funeral services are on Saturday, April 26,2025, at 11:00am

Both will be held at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in the Church building, 3770 S Cooper Rd Chandler, AZ 85249

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.

Gail T. Burgess, 88, Passed away peacefully at his home in Gilbert′ Arizona on April 12, 2025. He was born on October 29, 1936, in Tucson, Arizona to Frank Thompson Burgess and Mildred Thomas Burgess. Gail married Myrna Gresko on January 20, 1968, in the Mesa, Arizona temple. They shared 57 happy years together.

He worked as a job training counselor for Maricopa County Mainstream before retiring due to medical problems. He was a faithful servant of our Heavenly Father. He served in Mexico for 2 1/2 years as a missionary, a Stake mission in Tempe, a mission at the Mesa Temple visitor center with his son Robert, and Was a letter writer for Prison Ministries. He was a devoted Father and Grandfather.

Gail is survived by his wife, Myrna and his daughters Renae Jones (Michael), Grandchildren Micah, Michaela, and Michelle White (Mathew) grandchildren Mackenzie, Elizabeth, Christopher and Grace. He is preceded in death by his son Robert Burgess and his Parents.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025, at 9 A.M. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 1155 East Ray Road′ Gilbert, AZ 85296

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.

Our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Robert Leon Jones, age 87, passed away peacefully at his home in Mesa, Arizona, on Sunday, April 20, 2025.

Robert was born on June 12, 1937, in Mesa, Arizona, to Leon and Grace Jones. He was the fourth of six children and grew up with strong family values that shaped the man he would become. A proud graduate of Mesa High School in the Class of 1955, Robert began his career with Mountain States Telephone & Telegraph Company as a janitor. Through determination and a strong work ethic, he advanced through many roles within the company, ultimately dedicating over 40 years of service.

Robert faithfully served a full-time mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the West Central States Mission. A lifelong disciple of Christ, he served in many church callings throughout his life and was known for his devotion, humility, and Christlike love.

Following his mission, he enlisted in the National Guard, serving his country with honor before returning to his work in telecommunications. Robert pursued higher education at Arizona State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in education. In addition to his professional and academic accomplishments, Robert was a lifelong farmer at heart. He purchased a small farm in the Lehi Valley from his grandfather, where he lovingly worked the land and operated a cherished citrus stand for many years.

On March 22, 1963, Robert married the love of his life, Shirley Dean Ethington, in the Mesa Arizona Temple. They were sealed for time and all eternity and shared 61 wonderful years of marriage. Together they raised a loving family and built a legacy of faith, love, and hard work. Robert is survived by 6 of his 7 children: Troy L. Jones (Dayna), Shana L. Jones, Shella L. Flake (Rex), Jaymie L. Jones (Donna), Shawntel L. Ashcroft (Brian), and Shayleen L. Palmer (Tim). He is also survived by four of his siblings: Barbara Sherwood, Marie Miller, Gerrie Lyn Squire, and Janice Adams. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Marlen L. Jones (Tami), his sister Marion McCellen. Robert leaves behind 24 grandchildren (preceded in death by one), and 24 great-grandchildren, all of whom adored and respected him.

He was a man of quiet strength, endless compassion, and unwavering faith. His love for his family and his testimony of the gospel will continue to influence generations to come.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, April 25, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the Lehi Ward chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 830 East Lehi Road, Mesa, AZ. A viewing will be held prior to the service from 9:00 to 9:45 a.m.

Robert will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His legacy of faith, integrity, and love will live on in the hearts of his 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.

Michael Phillip George Francis, 67, passed peacefully in his sleep into the loving arms of Jesus on April 16, 2025, after a series of health issues.  He witnessed the angels singing and described his loved one’s comforting his transition home in the hours prior to his passing.

Born August 3, 1957, in Kingston, Jamaica, Michael shared stories of skipping school to catch rainbow snapper, always having a soccer ball at his feet, sipping the sacrament wine as an altar boy at Kingston Parish Church, and spending time with his close-knit family including his cousins, brothers, and sisters in Harbor View.  He had great pride in earning entry into and attending the prestigious Calabar High School.  A true American immigration story, his older sisters sponsored family members to the United States and Michael arrived in New York City Halloween Night 1970 during an electricity blackout at the age of 13.

Michael had many accomplishments throughout his life, including his service in the United States Air Force where he played on the USAF soccer team, as well as earning his Bachelor of Science Degree in Social work from Arizona State University with Magna Cum Laude Honors.  He worked with at-risk youth and cared deeply about using his past struggles to help guide young people.  Although he faced many personal and health challenges, Michael was soulful and understanding, a friend in times of need, giving and fiercely loyal…. devoted to his wife, children, family members, and friends.  He had a dozen different laughs, charm and charisma were his trademarks, dancing was his second language, and he had a beautiful baritone voice.  Michael loved to bird watch, listen to reggae, and get lost in his own thoughts.  He could have chosen any path in life, but what was most important to him was his family.  He wanted to see all his children grow to maturity in Christ, let go of the burdens in their heart, and love one another.  To love and be truly loved was the gift he gave.  As Michael would say, “Inna di morrows,” he is waiting for all of us and his life force is too great to be contained in this earthly body.  Fly high away from the pain and struggles of this world until we see you again.

Michael is survived by a large family.  His wife, Margaret “Peggy” Francis and their two children Jasmine Francis and Alexis Francis in Arizona.  He has a total of 8 children and 11 grandchildren in New York, who have remained an essential part of his life: Michael Anderson and his daughters Miliana and MacKenzie; LaShawn Anderson-Medina and her son Brian Flannory; Natasha Anderson; Monique Francis and her two children, Edrick and Mishe; Michael Francis Jr. and his children MaKayla, MacKenzi and Mikey; Marlon Francis, his wife Adelene, and their three children Madison, Kiera, and Joshua.   His siblings, brother, Paul Coke, and sisters Olivia Francis-Webber, her husband Donald and sons Donald Jr and Shane; Vinette Francis and her children Janice and Kevin; Dorrel Francis-Jennings and her children Sharon and Andrew; Lorna Fairweather and her children Wayne and Alecia.  Too many cousins and friends to mention here, but many will remember the moments he was there, true and strong.  He is predeceased by his parents Frankie Francis and Ruby Smith, his brothers Stanley Francis and Stephen Francis, his daughter-in-law Alisa Anderson, and his mother-in-law Eva Meyer.

In true Jamaican spirit, we will be celebrating in several ways according to Michael’s wishes:

May 4^th, 2025 from 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Intimate gathering of family and friends, drop by Francis household to share food, music, and stories about Michael. We will have the hot pot going and reggae playing.

May 23^rd at 11:00 AM-11:30 AM, Full Military Honors Ceremony at the National Memorial Cemetery 2929 E Pinnacle Peak Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85204.  All are welcome.  He will be laid to rest at the cemetery.  We plan to gather for lunch at a nearby location after the ceremony.

TBD: Celebration of Life at KCCC Newburgh Church in Newburgh, New York.  321 S. William St, Newburgh, NY 12550, Phone: 845-450-0083.

2026 TBD: Family will travel to Jamaica to release Michael’s ashes in his homeland and continue to celebrate his life “The Francis Way.”

Donations: Please, consider giving to www.impactjamaica.org in Michael’s name to support youth programs: A cause near to his heart.

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

Anthony Montano, age 90 passed away peacefully on April 18, 2025.  He was surrounded by his loved ones.

Anthony was born in Brooklyn, NY on December 5,1934.  He was the youngest of thirteen brothers and sisters.

He is survived by his wife Joan. His three children; Son, John Paul, daughter-in-law Mary Jane, Daughter, Jo Ann Berger, son-in-law Tommy and Son Anthony and his fiancé Martha.  His 7 grandchildren ; Brenden, Kayla, James, Julia, Tyler, Sean, and Liván. Brother-in-law to Rosemarie,Rudy and Bernice. Along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Anthony was a Korean War Veteran and Army Master Sgt. who retired at the age of 60.  He also spent many years in the floor covering trade where he met life-long friends.  Anthony was a kind soul who had a smile and laugh that was infectious.  He cared deeply for his family and friends and welcomed all into his home.  He never hesitated to lend a hand or help anyone in need. He often said how lucky he was to have had so many special people in his life who loved and cared for him.

In his spare time, Anthony was happiest playing cards with family and friends, watching the horse races with his family, or cheering on the NY Mets.

He will be forever remembered and missed by all who knew him.  We are blessed to have had him in our lives. May he rest easy until we meet again.

Anthony will be interred at The National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona with full Military Honors on Tuesday April 29,2025

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.

Our beloved mother, grandmother, and sister passed away peacefully at home on April 18, 2025. She was surrounded by her six children and many other family members. She was 86 years old. Wanda was born on May 26, 1938 to Minor Wiltbank Hall and Wanda Hulsey Hall in Eagar, Arizona. She grew up in Eagar and graduated from Round Valley High School.

Wanda was a devoted disciple of Jesus Christ in word and deed.  She loved serving in the Church and in the community. She, alongside her husband, Richard, served several full-time missions together for the Church.  She is a blessed and honored woman of God, who is now crowned with the angels of heaven and returned to be with her husband and family.

Wanda is survived by her children: Richard (Kelli) Skousen, Michael (Lachelle) Skousen, Shawna (Chris) Baker, Jack (Chrissy) Skousen, Kristen (David) Spuhler, and Amy (Nathan) Yetter, 43 grandchildren, and 36 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters, Colleen and Madeline. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Wiladene, her 2 brothers – Max and Minor Lloyd – and her beloved husband, Richard.

We are so blessed to have had her in our lives as the matriarch of our family; we look forward to the time when we will be with her again. Wanda’s family, faith and testimony of our Savior Jesus Christ were her greatest joys in life and will be remembered as her greatest legacy.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, April 23rd at 11 AM preceded by a visitation from 9 to 11 AM at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Hermosa Groves building 2549 North 32nd Street Mesa, Arizona 85213. Interment will follow at the City of Mesa 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.

In Loving Memory of DJ Kent (Donna)

With love in her heart and peace in her soul, DJ Kent passed away peacefully in her sleep on April 7, 2025. Though our hearts ache, we take comfort in knowing she is at rest and reunited with her beloved daughter, Michelle Kent.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, on January 15, 1959, DJ was a loving mother, devoted homemaker, and the heart of her family. She poured her heart and soul into raising her children—Mario Garcia, Ricky Garcia (Kent), and Michelle Kent—always showing up with open arms, a warm smile, and unwavering support. Whether she was cheering from the bleachers at sporting events or beaming with pride at concerts, DJ was her children’s biggest fan.

She found joy in the simple things—camping beneath the stars, casting a line in the water, and spending quality time with those she loved. Her home was always open, and her heart even more so. Many of her children’s friends lovingly called her “Mom”—because that’s exactly how she made you feel: safe, welcomed, and loved.

DJ had a rare and beautiful soul, full of compassion, laughter, and a light that made everyone feel seen. Her presence left a lasting imprint on everyone she met, and the world feels a little dimmer without her in it.

She is survived by her mother, Donna Fracschini; her brothers Michael Brooks, Robert Ward, and John Paul Triggs; her sons Mario Garcia and Ricky Garcia (Kent); and her cherished grandchildren Celeste Garcia, Austin Garcia, Isaiah Gamez, Kallista Garcia, Emma Garcia, Efraem Agorastos, Hanna Jensen, Dennis Mendes, and Jose Mendes.

DJ, your love will live on in each of us.

Fly high, Momma. You will always be our angel.

Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter and friend, Leola Lamb Skouson returned to her Heavenly Father on April 12, 2025.

A kind and creative soul who brought beauty, integrity, and love to every place and every relationship, Leola was born on July 24, 1937, to Edwin and Jennie Lamb in Gilbert, Arizona. As the daughter of a dairy farmer, Leola learned at an early age the value of hard work and the importance of family. The fourth of nine children, Leola grew up milking cows, picking cotton, and playing in the fields of post-depression Gilbert with her siblings and friends.

A graduate of Gilbert High School, Leola was active socially and, though embarrassed to admit it in later years, enjoyed supporting Gilbert High athletics as a cheerleader. She also excelled in drama and was active in the Mutual Improvement Association. She graduated in class of only 20 students, many of whom she remained close to until her passing.

When she was sixteen, she attended a church dance at the old Mezona building on Main Street in Mesa, where she met a devastatingly handsome nineteen-year-old named John Skouson. Leola and John immediately connected on the dance floor and were soon dating seriously and eventually engaged—an engagement that was interrupted by their mutual decision that John should serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Leola remained faithful to John on his mission, and three weeks after his return, they were sealed for time and all eternity in the Mesa, Arizona temple in March 1957. Children came quickly to the Skouson home – Kim and Demeron within just 11 months of each other, followed by Tammy, Candy, and Daken in quick succession. Stephanie joined the family six years after Daken’s birth, and together they created countless memories as they lived and worked in various places throughout the United States, including Buckeye, Arizona, Warden, Washington, American Falls, Idaho, Snowflake Arizona, Sedan Kansas, Monticello Utah, Blanding Utah, Taylor Arizona, and Mesa, Arizona.

Leola was a gifted homemaker who had an eye for color and craft. She and John frequently found themselves purchasing and remodeling older homes, and Leola’s ability to beautify and brighten their homes was matched only by her husband’s self-sufficiency as a builder and remodeler.

Leola and John formed a powerful and inseparable team whose character and commitment to the Gospel of Jesus Christ blessed and inspired their family, friends, and neighbors. Her love for family was obvious to anyone who spent time in her home, which was adorned by pictures of her children, their spouses, and grandchildren.

She leaves a rich posterity of 42 grandchildren and 94 great grandchildren. Her legacy is one of unshakable faith in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, unyielding devotion to her husband, and undying love for her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Leola is survived by her siblings Keith and Kova, children Kim (Russell) Call, Demeron (Memri) Skouson, Tammy (Phillip) Russell, Candy (Wayne) Wilkins, Daken (Cymany) Skouson, Stephanie (Rod) Ross, and the aforementioned grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 19 at the Mesa North Stake Center, 933 East Brown Road in Mesa, Arizona 85203. Leola asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Hospice of the Valley.

Randall Lee Rogers was born to Melvin D. Rogers and Mildred Noble Rogers on March 4, 1948 in Cottonwood AZ. His siblings are Marlene Russell, LaVonne Markham, Ranae Price, Brian Rogers, and Kent Rogers. He attended school in Mesa, Tucson and again in Mesa. He enjoyed playing sports in his younger years and watching them throughout his life. He had a beautiful singing voice. He served a mission in Peru and Ecuador for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He graduated from ASU with a degree in business and worked for EMC Insurance Companies as an underwriter for 25 years. He married Kristen Roberts on Dec 30, 1970, in the Mesa, AZ temple. They were blessed with seven children: Brett (Lisa), David, Ryan (Becky), Ethan (Casey), Aaron, Melissa (Billy) and Micah (Laycee). He currently has 11 grandchildren. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golf and spending time with his family and friends. He faithfully served in the church his entire life. His family and faith are most important to him. He passed away April 3, 2025.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1415 East Southern Avenue, Mesa, AZ 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.

Ronald Warren Knisley (aka Grandpa Duck) born in Ohio on August 27th, 1950 was called home from Mesa Arizona on March 18th, 2025 at 74 years of age.

Ron was a proud Vietnam Veteran (US Army), a Master Craftsman Stone Mason, family man, father, brother, grandfather, neighbor, and helpful friend to many.

He will be missed by all who knew him, whether for decades, or those he knew only a short time from Ohio to Arizona and everywhere in between. His booming voice and matching personality never met a stranger, a fan of The Ohio State University Buckeyes, Old Westerns, Shepards Chapel, Coin Collecting and Casino Arizona.

Ron was survived by his Son, LCDR Shane W Knisley, USN (Retired) of Virginia Beach, VA. Daughter, Sharon W Knisley of Mesa, AZ, brothers Steven (Dena) Knisley of Springfield, OH, Michael (Denise) Knisley of Gainesville, FL and Darrell McHenry of Mesa, AZ. His Grandchildren, Dr. Alyssa (Ian) Wood of St. Albans, United Kingdom and Craig Knisley of Cambridge, MA. Ron also had several nieces and nephews, most of which live in Ohio. Ron was preceded in death by his parents Joe Knisley of Knoxville Oh and Phyllis McHenry of London, OH and his brother Richard Knisley of Columbus, OH.

At his request, no memorial service will be held, but instead, Ron just wanted all to have a good time for him. Ron requested to be laid to rest in Ohio alongside his father, mother and brother each of whom he loved very much.

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.