Find An Obituary

George Cyrus Knowlton, II, age 79.5 of Mesa, Arizona, passed away unexpectedly on December 15, 2021. He is survived by his children, Tracie Steller, Anna Baum and George Knowlton III; grandchildren, Justin LaPolla (Sophie) and Cassandra Housmyer (Elijah), Renee Steller and Taylor Knowlton; great grandchildren, Ellison (8), Braelynn (6), Evelyn (4), Zoey (3) and Luke (11 months); sisters, Alita Arnold and Pamela Schultz; nieces and nephews, Tammie Ventura (Ken), Carrie Ragsdale (Daryl), Sally Schultz, Robert Schultz (Amber); Linda Nejati (Olmsted), lifelong friend and mother of his children. Preceding him in death was his father, Cyrus Knowlton and mother, Lorraine Koehly; paternal grandparents, George and Eva Knowlton from Massachusetts and maternal grandparents, John and Rosa Koehly, from Switzerland.

George was born on May 1, 1942, in Los Angeles, California to Cyrus and Lorraine (Koehly) Knowlton. Growing up on the Koehly Homestead in Lucerne Valley, George, being the only son in the family, at just three years old, was charged with caring for his mom and sisters and solving all problems big and small (as much as a three-year-old could) while his dad Cy was serving in the Navy as a radio operator on a ship during World War II. When Cy returned home, he worked for Hughes Aircraft in Culver City, California, leaving “Georgie Porgie” in charge at the ranch. Ranch life taught him how to be industrious, passionate, hardworking, loving and understanding of life’s curve balls, not to mention the many uses of bailing wire (Who knew you could actually “sew” two buildings together with it to make a bigger house). He even learned how to drive on the ranch at seven years old. He carried his responsibility for being the “man of the house” into his adult years, always acutely aware of the challenges of those around him whether it was his children, sisters, mother of his children, friends and even the mailmen and employees of the establishments he frequented. Throughout his life, he worked for Standard Oil Company, the United States Post Office, owned two Chevron gas stations, became a real estate broker, managed a variety of retail establishments, until finally settling into his last and most rewarding job as a roadside assistant for

the Arizona Department of Public safety. Growing up on the Koehly Homestead in Lucerne Valley, he learned all he needed to know about farming, fishing, camping, livestock, cars, construction, girls, life struggles and love. His mom and paternal grandmother were teachers who taught him the benefit of knowing United States history. His father fostered his entrepreneurial spirit and his maternal great-grandmother, an immigrant from Switzerland and the first Post Mistress in Lucerne Valley, taught him to stand firmly for what he believed in, have pride in being an American and to stay politically involved. He never knew a stranger and there wasn’t anything he couldn’t fix to make people’s lives better.

He loved his family and friends fiercely and deeply, and we take comfort in knowing that our dad is now at peace, surrounded by light.

Family and friends will be able to join us in celebrating his life after the first of the year, in 2022.

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.

Doris J. Sheldon, 89, passed away on December 21, 2021 at her home in Mesa, Arizona. She was young at heart and cared deeply for her family. Doris retired at the young age of 77 from Desert Oncology and after retirement kept busy volunteering at the Chandler Senior Center.

As a child her family moved to Mesa from Cameron, Oklahoma when she was about two years old. Her parents were James T. Posey and Birtha F. Posey (Wilcox) who preceded her in death along with 4 sisters and 3 brothers.

Sherman R. Sheldon was the love of her life and they were married 56 years until his death in 2006. They adopted two children Kurtis and Laura whom they raised as their own. It was not uncommon to find them visiting relatives during the summer to camp, water ski, or just have quality time together.

She is survived by her daughter Laura Sheldon and four grandchildren Brandon Sheldon; Candace Popa and her husband Marian; Kendra Tucker and her husband David; and Michael Sheldon-Manning. She also has 9 great-grandchildren Treyton, Garrett, Layla, Loralie, Ginevra, Norah, Isaiah, Felicity, and Abigail.

There will be a visitation on Tuesday, December 28th at Bunker Chapel from 10:30 to 12:30 followed by a graveside service at the Mesa Cemetery at 1 pm.

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.

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/mesaazhvstake

Theo J Heap, 95, passed away peacefully at his home in Mesa, Arizona on Sunday, December 12, 2021, surrounded by his loving wife and children. Theo was a great historian and completed his own personal history entitled, “The Life and Times of Theo J Heap” in which he wrote of his four loves. His first love was his immediate family consisting of his beautiful wife, Gloria, his four children and grandchildren. His Second love was the Gospel of Jesus Christ. His Third love was Public Service, and his fourth love was the love he had for the United States of America.

Theo was born in St. Johns, Arizona on October 10, 1926, 2^nd of 6 children born to Leona Wilkins and Parley J Heap. His parents and grandparents were ranchers and farmers, which provided a setting for a young boy to learn hard work and develop characteristics that would prepare him to become a successful husband, father, grandfather, educator, and disciple of Jesus Christ throughout his life.  During WWII, Theo served in the United States Air Force and was stationed in Italy.  Following his military service, Theo attended ASU where he played Basketball and met the love of his life, Gloria Davis.

Theo and Gloria were married May 24, 1950. After receiving his degrees in Education from Arizona State College, he taught school in St. Johns AZ, Scottsdale High School and Coronado High School.  His first love was coaching basketball and other sports. After his early teaching experience  he was hired at Mesa Community College to serve as Dean of Students and Athletic Director. He then became the President of Mesa Community College. He loved working one on one with the students and helping them receive their college education.

His leadership and love for athletics provided opportunities for him to serve as President of the National Junior College Athletic Association for twenty years.  That opportunity lead for him to serve on the United States Olympic Committee for 28 years.  He served on the Olympic committee as the Chairman of the education committee and the World University Games committee.

He served in many capacities in his community and in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He served as Elders Quorum President, Bishop of the Alma 8^th Ward, High Council, Stake Young Men’s President, Stake Mission President, faithful home teacher along with many other civic positions. A member of the Mesa Baseline Rotary Club and Rotary International, and served on the NCAA Football and Basketball Rules committees and the National High School Federation Rules Committees.

Theo is preceded in death by his daughter, Julie Martinsen and his granddaughters’ Nora Johnson and Holly Heap.

Theo is survived by his eternal companion Gloria; married children; Ralph (Denise), Bob (Deena), (son-in-law Rick Martinsen and wife Amy), Ted (Sheila), 20 grandchildren and 55 great grandchildren. Theo is also survived by his sister LaKay Grant (Joey) and many extended family members.

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.

Larry Allen Brown left this world in a hurry December 17, 2021. He battled various medical issues for years and with each terminal diagnosis he prevailed and bravely continued on. He had been saying for years “all I want is one day pain free” so he saw his chance, took it and he took it head on, like he had always lived his life.

Born in Tucson, AZ, he learned to work hard at a very young age and accomplished many things including becoming an eagle scout. He loved his faith, set a wonderful example for all, and knew God was at his side for life. He served an honorable LDS mission in Western New York where he met the love of his life Kelli, who he married in the Mesa Arizona temple. They raised 4 amazing children and have 7 fabulous grandchildren, who he adored to infinity.

He was very talented and built custom luxury homes and sprawling luxury horse facilities. After 9/11, he switched careers and became a manager for TSA at Phoenix Sky Harbor airport which was probably his most satisfying job. He loved people and would talk to everyone he met asking them about their travels. He was a natural born leader, often taking charge, giving orders and advocating for his team. As a result, his team members would seek out his advice and guidance.

He loved to travel, saw a lot of the world and showered his family with incredible gifts from abroad. Nobody was better at haggling, especially for cars, and he excelled at getting his meals comped and back seat driving.

There will be a celebration of life for Larry on January 15, 2021 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at 20637 E San Tan Blvd, Queen Creek, AZ 85142. Attendees can come and go as they want during that time. The family is eager to see all those who knew and loved Larry. He has been cremated and will be taken to an exotic locale and left there by his immediate family – lucky guy!

In lieu of flowers, Larry would love it if you donated to your favorite charity.

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.

Theresa Rickwalder, 97, of Mesa Arizona passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 18, 2021, at Hospice of the Valley Friendship Village in Tempe Arizona.  Known to friends and family as “Terry” she led a very happy, active life filled with family, friends, laughter and love.  During WWII she worked in an Army Air Corp Armory and was proud of her contribution to the war effort.  She married her true love, Joseph (Ricky) in 1945 and they were blessed to share 72 wonderful years together.  Theresa worked for Gibson Associates as a Quality Control Inspector. but the job she was most proud of was being a wife and mother.  Retiring in 1980, she and Ricky relocated to Citrus Gardens in Mesa, Arizona, where she was able to pursue new passions.  Over the years she coordinated the bingo, led morning exercises, played on pool and bowling leagues, assisted with Saturday morning coffee klatch and took up golf.  She could be seen daily riding her bicycle around the complex waving to friends.  Her friends and family describe her as an independent, strong woman who was a fantastic mother to her beloved children.  Her feisty and quick wit, along with her tenacity and strength, will be remembered by all.  

Preceding Theresa in death were her parents and siblings, as well as her beloved husband Ricky and her children Richard, Jean Marie, Theresa, Marian, and Elizabeth Ann; Grandson, Paul Joseph and great grandson Hayden.   

Surviving are her children Diane Occimio (Donald), Joseph Rickwalder (Susan), and Regina Duffy (Philip); grandchildren Bernie, Dawn, Darlene, Kimberly, Christopher and Glenn; Great grandchildren Kaitlyn, Cincere, Taylor, Morgan, Caitlin, Allyson, Natalie, and great-great granddaughters Addison and Paisley. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 am on Wednesday, December 29, at All Saints Catholic Church, 1534 N. Recker Road, Mesa Az. Internment will take place at 12:30 am at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, 1562 E. Baseline Road, Mesa, Arizona. In honoring her great love of children, in lieu of flowers donations to St. Jude Children Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee would be appreciated. 

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.

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Maria Miranda on December 15^th, 2021 in San Tan Valley, Arizona at the young age of 66.

Maria was born and raised in Bronx, NY. She was the oldest of 6 children born to Juan and Victoria. She married in 1978 and had 3 daughters and later moved to Gilbert, AZ in 1988. Before her retirement, Maria spent the last several years as a childcare provider where she was known for her compassion and dedication. Maria will be remembered as a loving mother. She treasured her daughters and embraced every moment with them. She especially enjoyed her role as Gigi (grandma).

She is survived by her daughters Melissa (husband Josh), Kathy (husband Christopher), and Stacy (fiancé Austin). She had 7 grandchildren Anthony, Christopher Jr., Brianna, Brayden, Brandon, Ally, Ariana, as well as one great grandchild Julian. She is also survived by her former husband John, sister Lucy and brothers Juan, George, and Victor. Preceded by brother Santiago.

A private celebration of life gathering for family and friends will be held at a later date.

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.

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.

Vincent J. Galgano,103, a WWII Veteran, passed away peacefully on Dec. 16, 2021 in Mesa, AZ.

He was born on Oct. 9 1918 in Brooklyn, NY.

He lived a very full life, seeing so many innovative changes.

He was a Jack of all trades, whether working for an electrical company, carpentry, communication lines, New York transit buses ,worked on many different engines as a mechanic for diesels, jeeps, tanks. He was a Technical Sergeant in the U.S. Army in charge of training men on motor convoys, various guns, weapons and ammunition and to protect themselves from
harm when they went overseas. He retired from the U.S. Post Office over 55 years.

He was a lifelong member of the Catholic Church, American Legion, and 4th rank Sir Knight of the Knights of Columbus.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Carmela Galgano our mother of 68 years and his son Anthony Galgano. He is survived by his 3 children, 7 grandkids, 8 great grandkids. He was a loving and giving father and grandfather, who will be missed greatly.

We express our love, gratitude and happiness that he was able to be with us for this long. Burial at the National Memorial Cemetery of AZ. , 23029 N. Cave Creek Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85024. On Tuesday, Dec. 28, 2021 at 10:00 a.m

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.

Ralph Leo Preston passed away peacefully at the age of (almost) 96 on December 14, 2021, at his home in Mesa, AZ. He was born to Cyrus and Elizabeth Preston in West Jordan, Utah, on January 1,1926. Ralph led a very happy and active life filled with family and friends. He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints all of his life. He loved the Church of Jesus Christ and always tried to live the Gospel teachings by helping those in need and striving to live a Christ-like life.

In 1947, he married his sweetheart, Iris Young, in the Mesa Arizona Temple, and together they have six children: Alma Sanger (Bob), Mona Varga (Jim), Ralph Ivan Preston (Carme), Karen Preston-Kass (Ron), Keith Preston (Annie), and Belinda Jones (Robert). Ralph and Iris were married for 40 years until his sweet wife was called home. He then married Esperanza Farnsworth and served in four missions both here and abroad until she was finally called home after 28 years of marriage. He leaves behind another sweet woman, wife and long-time friend, Dixie Rowley-Preston, who loved and cared for him for the final few years of his life.

Ralph loved to entertain guests, sing songs, and tell stories. He has been an entrepreneur most of his life and has worn many hats, such as: business owner, motivational speaker, and landlord.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, December 22, 2021, at 10:00 AM in the LDS Chapel at 1455 N. Harris Dr, Mesa, preceded followed by interment at 2:30 in the Binghampton LDS Cemetery in Tucson.

Family and friends can watch the funeral broadcast via:http://mywebcast.churchofjesuschrist.org/Events/mesaarizonacentralstake

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.

Virginia Louise “Curtis” Larrabee 94 passed away peacefully on December 10^th, 2021.  Virginia was born to Frank and Erma Curtis on December 26^th, 1926 in Bloomington Illinois.  Virginia is preceded in death by the love of her life, Walter H. Larrabee Jr.  They were married for 55 years until Walter’s death in 2001. She was the 5^th of 7 children and the oldest living sibling.  Brother’s Everett, Art, Gene, and Frank.  Sisters Winnie and Dorothy.

Walter and Virginia were married on June 14^th 1946. They moved from Utah to Mesa, Arizona where the built their home in 1960 and resided there until April 2020. Virginia lived a life filled with family and dear friends who loved her.  She became a 2^nd Mom to Betty Marsh & Lori Kelsey and thank her for that.

Services: Monday December 20^th

Location: Church of Jesus Christ of Ladder Day Saints, 940 East Southern Ave. Mesa, AZ  85204

Time: Viewing 10:30 a.m. Service to follow at 11:00

Gravesite service:  12:45 City of Mesa Cemetery, 1212 North Center Street, Mesa, AZ 85201

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.

Matt Piccillo, 65, was born in Jersey City, NJ and passed away in Scottsdale, Arizona, peacefully, with his loved ones by his side, embraced by the Father to hear the words, “well done my good and faithful servant”.

Matt grew up in New Jersey with his parents, Roselyn and Matthew, and older brother Charles.

He grew up fast and wild before giving his life to the Lord.

Matt met the love of his life, Eluisa and they married 2004. Together they welcomed their beloved daughter Gianna.

Matt and his family moved to Mesa, AZ after receiving a calling by the Lord to teach and minister there.

Matt pastored a home church with his wife Eluisa for over a decade. He was a humble and passionate teacher of the Truth who shared wholeheartedly with all those he welcomed into his home and beyond.

He mentored, taught, and guided numerous men through his men’s ministry. “He touched the hearts and restored the faith of countless people.”

Matt had a particular gift for highlighting the strengths instead of the weaknesses of those he ministered to and shepherded.

His favorite versus were Jeremiah 29:11, 2 Timothy 1:7, Philippians 1:6 and Psalm 91.

Matt had an illustrious career in the luxury automobile sales industry, including the last 17 years with Mercedes Benz. He was thankful to have spent the last 7 years as the General Sales Manager of Mercedes Benz of Scottsdale dealership. He often told his wife that it was an honor and a privilege to serve the Theisen Family.

Matt was well-respected in his industry and was instrumental in his dealership continuously
being recognized as Best of the Best by the Mercedes Benz Corporation.

In his free time Matt enjoyed traveling with his family, playing basketball with his daughter Gianna, studying, teaching and sharing the Word of God. He spent time working out in the gym, taking walks, climbing mountains, sunbathing, and swimming.

He truly loved life!

Matty: 
• Man of God
• Man of Integrity
• Noble Man
• Man of Perseverance
• Generous Man
• A Strong Man who understood and valued the priorities of life.

He was preceded in death by his parents Roselyn and Matthew Piccillo. Matt is survived by his wife Eluisa and daughter Gianna as well as his adult children Alicia, Nicole, Joseph, Anthony; as well as many spiritual children and international students, including Zeeshan and Olivia, who love Matt as a father and mentor. As well as his brother Charles, sister Lucia and brother Mario.

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.

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/2IcgbZJ_LYc

Afton Winona Peterson Reber 93, passed into the tender arms of her Heavenly Father on Friday, December 10, 2021. Winona had been living at the home of her devoted son, Douglas Reber for the past two years. Prior to her passing, she had been surrounded by her children, extended family, and dear friends.

Winona was born in Mesa, AZ on March 27, 1928, the only daughter of Howard Clarence Peterson and Afton Ida Clark Peterson. Her father was Mesa’s first chief of police before his untimely death from pneumonia when Winona was three years old. Her mother was a master educator and teller of stories in the Mesa schools for more than 40 years, and Winona inherited many of her mother’s amazing talents. In 1946, Winona graduated from Mesa High School, where she excelled in both academics and extracurricular activities. She was Mesa High’s first female student body president, a member of the National Honor Society, an officer in Girls League, and in addition to other activities, she lettered in volleyball and softball. After high school graduation, Winona attended Arizona State College (NAU) for one year, then ASU for a year before marrying the love of her life, Leo Melvin Reber. The couple went to live in Gilbert, and together they lovingly adopted three daughters and one son. Then in 1960, Winona conceived and gave birth to their youngest daughter. Winona and Leo loved all of their progeny beyond measure. After the children started to elementary school, Winona went back to the university and completed her teaching certificate. She went on to teach third and fourth grades at Gilbert Elementary until she retired. In her teaching career, she received a number awards for her math instruction and her amazing productions of plays about Arizona history starring her elementary students.

Winona was a devoted, life-long member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Saints. She served in many auxiliary positions in Gilbert Ward and Mesa South Stake, including Relief Society President, ward and stake Young Women’s President, and numerous other positions of service. One of her favorite callings was that of producer for the Church traveling “Road Shows” for which she garnered much recognition. Winona also loved the work she did in the Mesa LDS Temple where she and Leo had been married.

Winona was preceded in death by her eternal companion, Leo; her parents; her brothers: Howard Dean (Bonnie), Marion George (Bonnie), Charles Reed (Melba), and Glenn Clark (Marlene, surviving), and many adored aunts and uncles. Winona is survived by her five children: Janet Reber Gist (Richard), Douglas Reber, Barbara Reber Mortensen, Sandra Reber Hausladen (James), and Linda Reber Neff Dixon. She leaves behind 15 grandchildren and 43 great-grandchildren as well as many devoted nieces and nephews and her dear friends.

A viewing will be held Sunday, December 19 from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at Bunker Funeral Home, 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ 85201. A family graveside service will he held on Monday, December 20 at 10:30 A.M. in the Mesa Cemetery, 1212 N. Center St., Mesa, AZ 85201.

Strict adherence to COVID-19 protocols at both services is requested. The graveside service will be broadcast, and a link will be available through Bunker Funeral Home. Go to www.bunkerfuneral.com for directions to the link. The family wishes to thank Hospice of the Valley for their loving care of mother during her final illness.

We love and miss you, Mom.

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.

Glenna Lee Eaves, 74 passed away peacefully on December 10, 2021 in Mesa, Arizona.  She was born to Charles and Grace Johnson in Phoenix, Arizona in 1947.  Glenna led a life filled with family, friends, and numerous church callings.  She is survived by her husband Doug, children Cherlene, Douger, and Jody, 14 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, and three sisters Anna, Sue, and Jan. Glenna was preceded in death by her oldest daughter Faylene, her parents Charles and Grace Johnson, one of her sisters Gladys, and both of her brothers Steve and Bob.  A grave side service will be held Thursday, December 16, 2021 at 10 AM at Mountain View Cemetery, 7900 E. Main St, Mesa, Arizona.  In lieu of flowers please see Glenna’s Go Fund Me page to help fund burial expenses. (Glenna Johnson Eaves)

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.

Kathleen Hoopes, 72, was called home on 30 November 2021 in Mesa, Arizona. Kathy was born to Miles Haven Romney and Dora Viola Foster in Albuquerque, New Mexico in 1949. She graduated from Snow College and had a career in education with an emphasis on oral interpreting for hearing impaired students. Kathy enjoyed playing the piano and cross stitching. She was a source of joy to all who knew her. Kathy is survived by the love of her life, Jack Hoopes of which they were happily married for 46 wonderful years. She is also survived by her two sons Nathan and Wyeth, five grandchildren and her sisters Barbara and Beverly. Her graveside service will be held on Monday, 20 December 2021 at the town cemetery in Thatcher, Arizona.

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