Find An Obituary

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.

Dean Turk was born August 6, 1937 in Miami, Arizona to Dick and Wilma Turk, and he passed away at his home in Mesa, Arizona on January 21, 2022 under the care of his loving wife, Marsha. He lived his whole life in the East Valley.

Dean went to work full-time at a very early age at Brown and Hoeye Chevrolet, where he learned auto body painting and auto mechanics; over time he became an expert in both these vocations. Cars became a huge part of Dean’s life.  He loved to build them and race them. Before he was 20 years old he became a professional drag racer sponsored by local auto dealerships. Professionally Dean was known for his attention to detail in building high performance engines and their components. He loved and participated in sports of every kind.

Dean was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and he loved to help others. As a father to Terry, Randy and Misty, Dean was always loving and kind. His dedication to his family was never in doubt, and his care and concern extended to many grandchildren, great grandchildren… and indeed, to all who knew him.

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://zoom.us/j/96705382571?pwo=THVUdE5CUHRBSZRXdFNVZEKORFJUUT09
Passcode: Passcode: 511649

JoAnn Bernice (Twite) Erickson, 74, born in Dawson, Minnesota, passed away on January 20, 2022, in Gilbert, Arizona surrounded by those she loved. She is survived by her husband, Richard, and five children, Brita DeWitt, Marney Fiandach, Leanna Anderson, Jake Erickson, and Elizabeth Allen, 16 grandchildren, and three brothers, Ray, Don and Steve Twite.

JoAnn lived a life of faith and service and was loved by all who knew her. She was entirely devoted to her husband, family and friends. Making others feel loved and supported was of utmost importance in her relationships. Her grandchildren were her world, family dinners the highlight of her week and she was always planning the next family vacation, preferably at the beach. She was an active church member serving in numerous leadership and teaching capacities. Our Lord and Savior was her inspiration and she strived to live in accordance with His teachings, His commandments and His will. She enjoyed music, interior decorating, swimming with her grandkids and all things Christmas. Her laugh was contagious, and her smile could make the heaviest of hearts feel light. Her humor and quick wit were thoroughly enjoyed by all. JoAnn was deeply loved and one of a kind. The void that remains from her earthly departure is one that will never be filled until we meet again.

The funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 28, 2022 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints chapel located at 1852 North Stapley Drive, Mesa, Arizona. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the funeral service. A Zoom meeting link will be provided here, and through JoAnn’s and her daughters’ (Leanna Anderson and Elizabeth Allen) Facebook pages, prior to 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.

Live Stream Link To View Service:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83662018385?pwd=RDZsT3h0WHI4MjFxS0RrbXZQMU1IQT09

Michael Wayne Rockett, Jr., son, brother, husband, father, friend, was born in Normal, Illinois on May 14, 1973, the oldest of six children of Michael Wayne Rockett, Sr. and Denise Rockett (nee’ Stewart). In 1987, the Rockett family came to Chicago’s South Chicago neighborhood following opportunity. It was a return home for the parents, original West Siders. As mom would say, her babies needed to see more people that looked like them. So, she brought them home.

Arriving in Chicago, in the Reagan years, the Rockett family was six strong – soon to be eight. Every bit the blue-collar family, we made it work. Michael grew up in a loving household with his parents, younger sister, Darcel and younger brothers – Marshaun, Marshe’, Marcel and Markus.

Young Michael graduated from Parkside Elementary School and attended Hyde Park Career Academy, where he played football. He took his educational aspirations to MacMurray College in Jacksonville, Illinois on a football scholarship. Michael majored in computer science while there, but segued into healthcare most of his life, primarily working with at-risk populations, the elderly with dementia to youth with developmental disabilities. A trip to the West coast would anchor his career in healthcare. His children, Mykayla and Michael, and stepdaughter Melody Starnes, would soon make him a father. Michael moved back to Illinois with his new family in the early 2000s.

It was while Michael was in Walla Walla, Washington that he met the person who was soon to be his life partner, Kara Rockett (nee’ Kaser). The pair worked together while she was pursuing her a degree in nursing. Kara would eventually move away with said degree, but the ever-persistent Michael would seek her out several years later, when romance bloomed. Michael would take the leap to Arizona in 2008 to make a life with Kara. The duo was inseparable from then on; they married in 2018. For 14 years, the two shared their love and passion for fine beers, breweries, and adventure. Michael loved fashion, music, sports and the Miami Hurricanes, tattoos, new kicks, video games, comics, and pop culture. He loved life and those who lived it. It’s his example we try to follow: No regrets.

Michael leaves behind his loving wife, Kara Rockett and his in-laws, Steven and Nori Kaser, and Cathy Fuller, his daughter Mykayla Rockett, son Michael Diamond Rockett, his parents (Michael and Denise), siblings Darcel, Marshaun (Cynthia), Marshe’ (Audra), Marcel and Markus, aunts (Linda Stewart, Jamie Stewart, Bernadine Rockett-Jackson, Annette Sain, Stephanie Tate-Stewart) and uncles (Willie ‘Sonny’ Rockett, Gregory Rockett, Gilbert Rockett, Nelson Stewart, Tracy Stewart), cousins (Pam, Beverly, Darryl, Kary, Tina, Giovanni, Marcus, Jasmine, Alfred, Lamont, Andrea, Denzel, Malik and Ashley), niece Maia Rockett, and nephews Cameron Williams, Dominic Rockett and Xander Rockett, as well as a host of extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Willie and Viola Rockett, and maternal grandmother, Claudette Stewart and his father-in-law, Lyle Fuller.

May the memory of Michael Wayne Rockett, Jr. bless us always.

*To View this service online please click the link right below!

Scheduled from 11:00 to 1:00 pm

https://zoom.us/j/98670308632

Lynn Hyrum Tawzer, 76, passed away unexpectedly on January 19, 2022, in Mesa, Arizona. He had valiantly fought and won his battle with pancreatic cancer in 2021 but succumbed to lingering effects from cancer treatment. Lynn was born and raised in Ammon, Idaho. He earned a football scholarship to Brigham Young University and later graduated with a Bachelor and Master’s degree in business. Lynn met his sweetheart, Dixie Cummings, at an orientation dance the first week of college and they have been happily married for 56 wonderful years. After living in Provo, Utah for 12 years, they moved to Mesa, Arizona in 1977 where Lynn started Irvine Electric, an electrical contracting business, with his father-in-law. Lynn was always a hard worker and ran the business successfully until retiring in 2020. Lynn built precious memories with family while enjoying his hobbies of hunting, camping, and golf. Lynn and Dixie were blessed with four beautiful children and Lynn was never happier than the times he spent with his family. Lynn was a devoted husband, a dedicated father, and a loving and involved grandpa. All his children remained in Mesa to be close to their parents.

Lynn was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and was serving as a service missionary at the time of his passing. He loved to serve and happily did so in every calling that was extended to him. His love for the Savior, Jesus Christ, was reflected in all he did and said. This great and gentle man will be missed by all who had the fortune to know him.

Lynn was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin “Bud” Tawzer and Phoebe Ann Peterson Tawzer, older sister, Blanche Joy Tawzer, brother-in-law Steve Murdock, and granddaughter, Lindsey Tawzer. He is survived by his older brother, Charles (Elaine) Tawzer, and sister, Holly (Steve) Murdock. He leaves behind his wife, Dixie, and four children, Maria (Kirk) Lamb, Jeffrey (Julie) Tawzer, Stacy (Chet) Randall, Joanne (Mistie) Wagner, 16 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be Saturday, January 29, 2022, at 11:00 am, with a viewing preceding at 10:00 am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints stake center located at 10305 E Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ 85209. Bunker’s Family Funerals www.bunkersfuneral.com handled arrangements.

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.

Daughter, sister, friend, wife, mother, aunt, grandmother and great grandmother. Dorothy was born October 12, 1933 to Charles and Catherine Hudson in Brooklyn, New York. Dorothy had several siblings, brothers: Ray (Jerrie), Charlie and Bobbie, sisters: Carole (Frank) Wipple and Margaret (Duncan) Lay; all who have pre-deceased her. Dorothy met her husband, Thomas Fagan, Sr. in Brooklyn, New York in 1950.  They wed September 6, 1951. Tom preceded Dorothy in death March 11, 2014.

Tom and Dorothy are survived by a beautiful family, spread near and far. They had four children, Tommy (Linda) Fagan, Kathy (Merlo) Pile, Eddie Fagan and Geri (Ignacio) Mendiola.

They are also survived several grand and great grandchildren; Logan (Abbie Prince, Teddy) Pile, Devin Pile, Corey Pile, Antony Pile, Candace and Chris Fagan-Chavez, Leon Fagan, Eric Fagan, Danielle (Dean, Gavin, Jordan) Welch, Kristina (Travis, Adrianna, Scarlett, Grayson) Tyrer, Kyle Mendiola, Matthew (Jayme) Mendiola, Michael Mendiola (Michael William Mendiola).

Family was everything to Dorothy and she raised her family with the same values. Whether near or far, she always extended her heart and hand with a warm welcoming smile.

Dorothy grew up spending time between both Brooklyn, New York and Pine Bush Lake Estates. Tom and Dorothy moved to Copiague, New York where many of their children were born. In 1972, the family moved west to Colorado Springs, Colorado. Dorothy continued to be an open-door kind of woman, everyone always welcome. Many wonderful times were shared with our east coast family visiting the west, memories to be to cherished.

In 1994, Tom and Dorothy began their golden years and hit the road in a Class A motor home, going on many adventures, including their grandchildren whenever possible. They settled in Port Charlotte, Florida, where they were once again reunited with family and friends from years past. Tom and Dorothy enjoyed their life in Florida sharing it with their families and friends.  They continued their adventures together until Tom’s passing in March 2014.

In 2016, Dorothy moved to Gilbert, AZ to once again to be with family. Many wonderful memories were made while Dorothy lived in Arizona that will be cherished always.

January 11, 2022 Dorothy Fay Hudson Fagan joined her beloved husband, Tom, for always and forever. May her soul rejoice in the goodness of our God and Father.

Always and forever Dorothy, sister, friend, wife, mom, Aunt, momma, grandma, great grandma, we will always and forever love you.

Service will be held at:

February 4,2022 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM

National Memorial Cemetery

23029 N Cave Creek Rd

Phoenix, AZ  85024

United States

Celebration of Life to follow after Service:

Contact family for address.

Please join us! We would love to catch up and share memories!

The following is zoom link for celebration of life at our home following cemetery

Topic: Dorothy Fagan’s Celebration of Life

Time: Feb 4, 2022 12:30 PM Arizona

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2700111485?pwd=WGQrMnE0elk4eXZGTDdHZ0tmOXBLdz09

Meeting ID: 270 011 1485

Passcode: 151374

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://www.YouTube.com/channel/UCAvi-QYpba4f-Dm58zHC8Mg/live

Minda Rhea Martineau Jones passed away on January 12, 2022, in Nampa, Idaho, with family at her side. She was 90 years old. She was born on May 14, 1931. Minda is the 11th of 14 children born to Charles and Florence Martineau. She was married to Maurice Ivan Jones (Maury) for 65 years until his death in 2018. She is survived by her children: Janice Wilstead (Bob), Rondal Jones (Kaylene), Kyle Jones (Amy), Vearle Jones (Pam), Minda Bates (Brian), Melitza Lloyd (Steven), and Juleen Jones. Minda loved and enjoyed being with her large family, which included 40 grandchildren, 71 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild. She is also survived by her sisters: Teresa Russon (Stanford) and Hazel Allen (John).

Minda was born and raised in the Mormon Colonies in Mexico. After she graduated from high school her family moved to Mesa, Arizona. Minda came up to Mesa a few months ahead of her family and lived with her single sister Teresa, until her family arrived. The sisters enjoyed going to dances at the Mezona. Minda met Maury at a dance. They went to some dances, but never really dated. Maury went to serve in the Korean War. Minda and some friends moved to Salt Lake City. She attended a semester at the LDS Business College, but ended up just working. Minda was surprised when Maury showed up in SLC to see her because they hadn’t kept in touch. They got engaged during that visit and were married in the LDS Mesa Arizona Temple in November, 1952. They settled in Mesa and were residents the rest of their lives.

They had their first of seven children in 1953. Minda enjoyed motherhood. She was always up for an adventure or fun, especially with family. She enjoyed their cabin in Forest Lakes, AZ, where many memories were made. Regardless of how much her family grew, each Christmas Minda insisted on giving each member a gift so that they knew grandma and grandpa loved and knew them. She made many of the gifts. She was very talented at ceramics, crochet, tatting, quilting, and more. The greatest gifts she gave them were her time, love, and laughter.

Minda also loved her Savior, Jesus Christ, and was a faithful member of the LDS Church her entire life. She taught her children about the Savior and his gospel. She served in many callings in the Church including President of the Primary, Young Women, and Relief Society organizations. She and Maury served as Directors of the Mesa Temple Youth Guides Program.

Through the way she lived Minda was an example of love, faith, dedication, and service. She leaves her family a legacy of unconditional love and laughter…

A viewing will be held Friday, January 28th, 2022, from 6-8 PM, and Saturday, January 29th, 2022, from 9-10 AM at the LDS Mesa Arizona Stake Center at 1050 S. Hobson in Mesa. Funeral services will be 10 AM Friday, January 29th, at the same location. Minda will be buried with Maury at the Mesa City Cemetery.

The link for the funeral is: https://www.YouTube.com/channel/UCAvi-QYpba4f-Dm58zHC8Mg/live

Shane Kent Layton, 50, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2022, in Chandler, Arizona. He was born to Kent and Kay Layton in Mesa, Arizona on December 9, 1971. He grew up in Tempe, Arizona and served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1991 to 1993 in the Baltic country of Estonia and in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. On November 11, 1994, Shane married Jenni Berkey in the Mesa Arizona Temple. They had two children and raised their family in a wonderful community in West Chandler. Shane spent 24 years in residential real estate where he enjoyed helping others navigate the process of home buying and selling.

Shane had many talents including playing the piano, organ, and drawing. He loved spending time with his friends and siblings playing video games and basketball. One of his favorite titles was “Uncle Shane.” He would thoughtfully spend time with each niece and nephew and loved to surprise them with special gifts he had drawn or bought for them. Shane loved being a Dad and was so incredibly proud of his children’s many accomplishments. Going to their sporting events and concerts in their youth and watching them grow into adulthood brought him immense joy. Christmas was his favorite holiday when he would spend hours making lists, shopping, and carefully wrapping each present for his family members and friends. He could often be found performing quiet, humble acts of service for his community and his church. He was thrilled to have finally arrived in grandparenting and savored every minute he had with his grandson. He and his wife enjoyed their short empty nester years together traveling and riding a lot of roller coasters. He was a dedicated husband, father, son, uncle, grandfather, brother, and friend. He will be greatly missed by many.

Shane is preceded in death by his father, Kent Layton who passed in 2016. He is survived by his wife, Jenni; children, Heather Hancock (Bryant), and Eric Layton (Maryn); grandson, Perseus Hancock; mother, Kay Layton; and siblings Todd (Emily), Bryan (Heather), and Melissa (Jay).

A memorial will be held at 10:00am on Saturday, January 22, 2022, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel located at 1111 E. Knox Road, Tempe, AZ 85284.

A Go Fund Me account set up for his family to assist with funeral and medical expenses at https://gofund.me/12f1ffba.

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://us02web.zoom.us/j/85684776206?pwd=UnhQNm5TOWtKaGpscjJlUW1keTQ2QT09

Meeting ID: 856 8477 6206
Passcode: 655658

Raul (Rudy) Torres (78) fondly known as Grampadude, peacefully passed in the Lord’s loving embrace on January 18, 2022. Grampadude was born May 14, 1943 in Garden Grove, California to the late Maximo and Maria Torres.

He served in the Air Force as a Sgt. at Williams Air Force Base in Arizona. After his military service, with degrees in engineering and computer science, he spent his career as a Civil Engineer for the City of Mesa until he retired. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, and actively volunteered as a Mesa Lion.

His 54 year marriage to Mary Helen included four children from a previous marriage Kris Anest (Jim), Kathy Moran (Mike), Jamie Brown (Virgil), and James Stough II. Grampadude and Mary had his beloved son Charles whose career in the arts was cherished and took them all over the country. He so loved his grandchildren, Bradley, Ethan (Anna), Tyler, Peter (Nia), Christopher, Matthew, Joseph, Lea, and great grandson, Elias.

He leaves behind his only brother, Joe Torres, niece and nephew, Ivan and Belinda, along with many nieces and nephews. We would like to express heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Gordon Grado who is more a member of the family than a gifted and respected doctor. Grampadude leaves this world loved by many. He was fiercely humble and private. In place of a memorial, he wishes for all of his loved ones to embrace their memories and love each other.

His ashes will be delivered in the Pacific Ocean where he can swim with the dolphins, by his loving son Charles Torres.

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/MqYm2G9NEGs

Ellen Elizabeth Gines Rees, or fondly called “Ginny” by her husband Lynn Rees, who preceded her in death, was born on March 2, 1935 in Woodland, Utah and passed from this life peacefully on January 15, 2022 at the age of 86 in Mesa, Arizona.

She was one of 12 children born to Rex and Thelma Gines in Woodland Utah.  She is survived by her five children Pam Peterson, Denise (Curtis) Clouse, Allison Riesterer, Lana Mitzel, and Mark (Laurie) Rees, as well as 21 grand children and 45 great grand children.

Our Mother loved to cook and bake.  She was famous for her homemade bread and rolls and made so many wonderful meals while We were growing up.  She always looked impeccable and never a hair out of place.

She spent her life in service to friends, family, and in various capacities as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and greatly enjoyed her many years of employment at Beehive Clothing in Mesa, Arizona.

Services will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints Kleinman Park Ward.  The address is 616 S. Extension Rd., Mesa, AZ.  Viewing will be at 9:00 AM. Followed by the funeral services at 10:00 AM. Interment will be at the Mesa Cemetary.

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.

Juan Manuel Aguilar, passed away January 8th, 2022 in Chandler, Arizona. He was born to Carla Houston and Tomas Aguilar, Sr. in Chandler, Arizona.

Juan is survived by his parents; children, Xavier, Adrian, and Xochitl Aguilar; siblings, Tomas Aguilar Jr, Monique Orozco, Alysia and Martin Rojas, and Maritsa Aguilar; and Bernadette Gillette the mother of his children, also survived by his 10 nieces and nephews.

He was a loving son, father, brother, and uncle. He will be missed dearly.

The funeral will be held at 9:00 AM Saturday, Januay 22nd, 2022 at Vah-ki Cemetery in Bapchule, Arizona 85121.

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.

George Andrew Woods passed away peacefully after a brief illness on January 17, 2022, a few weeks shy of his 99th birthday.  He was born in Phoenix, AZ Feb 7, 1923.  He was preceded in death by his parents, George Tennyson and Vilate Harper Woods, siblings James Riley, Winifred, Dorothy Haynie, Kenneth (Toni), granddaughter Jennifer Johnson Hill, and son-in-law Richard Louis Jensen.

He is survived by his wife of 75 years, Ann Shumway Woods, brothers Murray (Ann) and Gordon (Peggy), children Ann Marie Jensen, William (Renée), Rex (Mary), David (Joyce), Larry (Julie), Carol Johnson (Kerry), and Karen Brunsdale (Lenard) as well as 36 grandchildren, 93 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.

George was a veteran of World War II, serving in the US Army in the European theater.  He landed on Utah Beach, Day Six and traveled through Germany, liberating camps at the close of the war.  

George graduated from ASU and taught chemistry and biology at Mesa High School and Phoenix Union before beginning a career as a chemical engineer.  Ultimately he owned his own water treatment business where he continued to innovate and work, up until last week.

George was well known for his musical talents which he generously shared.  He conducted choirs, directed musical productions, nurtured talent, anchored jazz bands from the piano and played the most peaceful prelude music on the organ for church services.  He was a gifted writer and speaker and had an amazing memory.

George was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints where he willingly served wherever he was needed.  His understanding, appreciation and application of gospel doctrine and principles were shared freely. He was generous with his time and means, supporting missionaries and others.  He maintained a beautiful home and yard and hosted memorable gatherings.  

George was a man who never retired, but continued to face the challenges of life.  His example of endurance and perseverance will continue to inspire his numerous posterity. “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”  

Internment will be at the 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.

Norene Dance Thomas passed away on January 16, 2022, at the age of 88 in Mesa, AZ. She was born on May 5, 1933, in Thomas, Idaho to Leroy and Lillie Noack Dance. She grew up on a farm in Idaho where she learned the value of hard work from her wonderful parents. She grew up in a wonderful family who have all passed except her brother Arnold Dance who she loved dearly. She attended college at Ricks and then transferred to BYU. While attending school she met Elmo Thomas. They were married in the Idaho Falls Temple on September 2, 1955. Shortly after being married, they traveled to Chicago where Elmo attended dental school. After completing school, they moved to California for two years. In the summer of 1961 they moved to Tempe, AZ where Norene resided until May when she moved to an assisted living facility. Elmo passed away at age 60 from cancer. She was the mother of six children. All her children currently live in the valley close to her. Diane and Rex Shumway, currently serving a mission in Brazil, David and Terry, Patty and Tim Larson, Paul and Amber, Stephen and Joanne, and Robert and Kim. She has been blessed with lots of posterity. She has 35 grandchildren, and 51 great grandchildren. She served many years at the Family History Center until it’s closing and enjoyed working there. The funeral will be Saturday, January 22, 2022 at 2:30 p.m. It will be held at 2707 S. College Ave. Tempe, AZ 85282. Due to funeral constraints, there will be no viewing prior to the services. The family will be happy to greet you after the funeral concludes. She will be buried at the Mesa City Cemetery Monday, January 24, 2022 at 9 a.m.

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.

Louella Sue (Suzie) Meadows graduated from this mortal life and returned to her Heavenly state, having completed her earthly mission, on Monday, January 17, 2022, in Mesa, Arizona following a brief but severe illness. Suzie was born on January 28, 1949, to Frank Winfred Meadows and Pearl Mae Sanger Meadows in Globe, (Gila) Arizona. She was the sixth of nine children.

Suzie suffered nearly her entire life with brain damage engendered by protracted high fever associated with a combination of whooping cough and pneumonia as a baby. She was assisted by special needs schooling. She was married to Joey Erchanbrack and had two children, Jeremiah Joey (J.J.). and Crystle Lynn.

Suzie had a very difficult life and despite her many challenges, she was able to accomplish many of her goals. She loved attending her Young Women’s group at Church, listening to music, camping family reunions, swimming, and shopping. As her brain damage progressed, Suzie spent her final years at Montecito Post-Acute Care in Mesa, Arizona, where she passed away at age 72. Suzie is survived by brother Jimmie Frank Meadows (Judy), sister Beverly Ann Rice, sister Sharon Deann Howard (Lynn), sister Billie Louise McClellan (Dennis), brother Kenneth Eugene Meadows (Chrys), brother Larry Carwin Meadows, (Stephanie), sister Pamela Jean Scott (Mike), brother David Lynn Meadows, ex-husband Joey Ercanbrack, son Jeremiah Joey Ercanbrack, granddaughter Tanisha Bryan and many nieces and nephews who loved her very much. Suzie was preceded in death by parents, Frank Winfred Meadows and Pearl Mae Sanger Meadows, and daughter Crystle Lynn Ercanbrack. Suzie will be interred at Mesa Cemetery on Monday, January 24, 2022, following a graveside service at 11:00 AM.

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