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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.

In Loving Memory

With great love and sadness, we announce the passing of our husband, father, brother and friend, Gordon Kay Whiting, age 72, who passed away surrounded by his family in Phoenix, Arizona on March 12, 2025.Gordon was born on September 9, 1952, in Kanab, Utah to Arthur Milton “Mickey” Whiting and Lorana Randall. He was the second of four children; brothers, Bruce and Barry Whiting, sister, Janis Hall and later a foster brother, Henry Redhouse. Although he was born across the state line in Utah, his family lived in Fredonia, Arizona and he was a proud lifetime Arizonan.

Gordon spent his childhood in Fredonia and the forests of Flagstaff, Arizona. He loved the outdoors and had an adventurous spirit that got him into mischief regularly. At age 15, his family moved to Phoenix, and it was here that he excelled in sports, especially football and basketball, earning the nickname “the pink cheeked rascal”. He also met and fell in love with his forever companion, Nannette Dupont. They dated throughout high school and married on May 18, 1974. They had three children, Jacob, Shannon and Clinton.

Gordon had a love for the western lifestyle. He and Nannette raised their three children on a cattle ranch in Klondyke, Arizona. Family was everything to them and they instilled in their children a strong work ethic and a love for the outdoors. Gordon found joy when he was horseback, riding the high deserts of Arizona or sitting around a campfire with family and friends. He loved to hunt and hike and believed there was nothing better than a beautiful Arizona sunrise or sunset.

Gordon pursued many other adventures and achieved numerous accomplishments throughout his life. He graduated from ASU in 1976 with a bachelor’s degree in Agribusiness. He was the “Top Overall Cadet” at the Arizona Law Enforcement Training Academy (ALETA) in 1986 and served as a reserve law enforcement officer for nearly 30 years. He was appointed to the Arizona Game and Fish Commission, where he served for a five-year term from 1987-1992. He was known for his great integrity and honesty and was described as “even-tempered and fair minded” by the public. Gordon worked for the family business, Kaibab Industries, where he served as President until his passing. Those who worked alongside him, valued his humor, easy going way and wise counsel. The Sawmill Crossings Theater complex in Payson, Arizona is an example of the vision Gordon had for his family roots and legacy to be remembered. He could often be found walking the property and visiting the tenants, always joking and teasing in his charismatic way.

Gordon leaves behind a legacy cherished by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him. As he would say, “Vaya con Dios, Amigo”. He is preceded in death by his father, Arthur Milton “Mickey” Whiting and mother, Lorana Randall Whiting. He is survived by his loving wife, Nannette Katherine (Dupont) Whiting of Flagstaff, Arizona; two sons, Jacob Whiting (Danielle) of Newcastle, Australia, Clinton Whiting (Kellie) of Flagstaff, Arizona; daughter, Shannon Rhoton (Shane) of Fairbanks, Alaska; three brothers, Bruce Whiting (Gail) of Athens, Georgia, Barry Whiting (Robyn) of Mesa, Arizona, and Henry Redhouse (Lisa) of Mesa, Arizona; one sister, Janis Hall (Gordon) of Tempe, Arizona; and 12 grandchildren, Amber Whiting, Jonathan Whiting, Moriah Whiting, Nathanael Whiting, Elisabeth Whiting, Tanner Rhoton, Bria Rhoton, Lila Rhoton, Sage Rhoton, Abbie Whiting, Jack Whiting and Lucie Whiting.

The family would like to thank Hospice of the Valley Ryan House and Holdfast Recovery, as well as everyone who has extended their kind and loving words and prayers on our behalf.

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.

Richard Chamblin age 81 born 11/27/1943. He was born in Washington DC but spent most of his young life in Virginia. In 1960 he enlisted in the Air Force and was a Vietnam Veteran.

He led a very happy & active life, filled with family, friends & many activities. He loved to Golf, Dance, walked 3 miles every day except for Sunday when he never missed church. He also liked to cook, entertain friends & yearly go to Montana to help our nephew on his farm. He was a loving husband who never met a stranger & would help you out in any way he could.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years Arlee Chamblin, sons Gary & Rush, grandson Danny & sister Hope Chamblin.

He will be buried in an Historical Cemetery in Virginia where there are many Chamblin’s dating back to the 16 hundreds. He will be missed by many, many people but as he would say when leaving:

God Bless You!!!

He donated to many charities but in lieu of flowers he would say donate to your favorite charity in memory of him.

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.

LT Thomas Richard Dunn Babbitt, USN Retired, born on February 6, 1929, in Detroit, Michigan. He was the son of Edith Elaine Eastman Sexton and William Joseph Dunn. Thomas passed away at age 96 years young on April 10, 2025.

Tom is a 24-year veteran of the United States Navy. He attended the Roosevelt Military Academy in Aledo Illinois at 15 years old and was signed into the Navy at 17 years old on August 22, 1946, by his mother Edith who said the Navy needed him and he liked the color of the uniform.

He served during the end of World War II, in the Korean War and Vietnam War and received a Bronze Star and 15 other medals. He served on two Cruisers, Amphibious transport, Destroyer, Battleship, Submarine, two Essex Class Aircraft Carriers, and PBR Mobile Base 1 during his tours. He played a silent part in a movie when stationed at Treasure Island called “It Came from Beneath the Sea”. He retired from the Navy on Feb 1, 1970, after 24 years.

He loved sailing and traveling to Norway and Ireland to visit friends and family and other countries with Aurelie. They made many trips in the RV around the United States and Mexico.

Tom was a Third-degree master mason with the Jordon Lodge in Massachusetts from 1958 until 1981 and has been a member for 65 years.

His wife of 59 years, Aurelie Patricia Dodge Babbitt, Registered Physical Therapist, passed away July 18, 2011, and is survived by two children, Thomas Richard Babbitt II, Sheryl Lee Girard Heier plus 4 grandchildren, Crystal Rae Girard Perez, Thomas Anthony Girard, Brittney Ann Babbitt Whipple, Christopher Michael Babbitt, 3 great grandsons, Lucas Carlos Perez, Samuel Benjamin Perez, Jason Huckslee Whipple and one great granddaughter Nastassia Aurelie Whipple. He is predeceased by his wife Aurelie Patricia Dodge and son Brent Randal Babbitt.

He will be laid to rest beside his wife Aurelie Patricia Dodge Babbitt in Rowley Cemetery, Rowley, Mass.

Fair Winds and Following Seas – God Bless

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

John Paul Weeden passed away March 22, 2025.  He was the son of Norman Paul and Ruth Walcott Olmsted Weeden, born on September 26, 1946, in Albuquerque, Bernalillo, New Mexico.  He had three siblings: Ellen Jean (Susie, deceased), Janet Ruth, and James Roland Weeden (deceased). During high school he decided to be called by his middle name Paul.

His father worked for the US Forest Service and moved often for promotion.  He spent his youth in New Mexico, Arizona, and Virginia.  Paul served a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Chili and spoke Spanish fluently.  When he came home, he went to college, majoring in forestry management, and graduated from the University of Idaho.

Paul began his service as a seasonal employee. Beginning in 1965, he worked summers as a fishery biologist aide at Yellowstone National Park and as a Park Technician at Joshua Tree with duties and responsibilities primarily in law enforcement.

Paul got a job at Grand Canyon National Park and worked there for about six years as a park ranger employed in law enforcement. He also drove the ambulance and used his climbing rappelling skills when needed.  He met his wife, Barbara Dean, while working at the Grand Canyon.

After his father retired from the US Forest Service, Paul was able to start his career with the US Forest Service.  He worked on the Elden District, Coconino National Forest in Flagstaff, AZ for about six months on the fire crew.  He received a promotion to work in Timber as the marking crew foreman at Blue Ridge Ranger Station.  He worked and lived on the station for a year.

He took another promotion to Douglas, AZ on the Coronado National Forest as the District Recreation and Lands sub staff with responsibilities over minerals, special uses, and personal use firewood. During this time, he brushed up on his Spanish.  He worked there for two and a half years.

Another promotion came along on the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, based at Big Bar, CA. He was responsible for Recreation, Wilderness, Range, Special Uses and legitimate mining activities. He also served on two type-two fire teams as Resource Unit Leader, Demobilization Unit Leader, and Trainee Plans Chief.  He spent five years working there while living on the ranger station for three of those years and in Weaverville for the last two years.  He said that he “enjoyed his time working there the most in his career.”

The forest service office in Washington, D.C., was his next position and where the family spent the next three and a half years.  He was the Defense and Emergency Operations Specialist on the Fire and Aviation Staff and was to help coordinate the forest service’s involvement in international and national disaster responses when the forest service was asked to provide equipment and personnel after disasters.  He also requested to be put in charge of the Smokey Bear Program while working there as it was a responsibility that his father had also managed.  The first International Fire Conference was held in Boston and he was on the committee that organized the conference.  He worked closely with the Federal Emergency Management Agency in their response to hurricanes (like Hugo and Gilbert) and earthquakes (like the Loma Prieta quake in the San Francisco area). He worked closely with the International Forestry Staff and the Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance and coordinated forest service employees being sent to help in foreign countries where a natural disaster had just occurred.  Some examples of the emergencies he helped with were:  African locust infestations, an earthquake in Russia; a train wreck in Russia; an earthquake in Nicaragua, large wildland fires in Indonesia, Argentina, Guatemala and Mexico.

Paul’s last position was as the Deputy Forest Supervisor on the San Bernardino National Forest in California, which he worked there for 12 years. The Hon. Jerry Lewis of the California House of Representatives stated, “As manager of a 440-person agency with a $24 million budget, Mr. Weeden has helped guide the forest into the 21^st Century as a verdant oasis in one of the largest urban areas in the world. Even as he watched over the San Bernardino National Forest, Mr. Weeden in 1998 coordinated American aid to Mexico in response to the worst wildland fire season in that nation’s history. He has since provided guidance and leadership to Mexico’s firefighting, detection and prevention programs, as well as helping in the restoration of important natural lands.”

He traveled to Spain, Brazil, and Mexico during his career and received numerous awards for the work he did.

In 2001, Paul retired and worked for Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc.  It is a company that develops geographic information system (GIS) software.  He worked there for a few months.

The family moved to Phoenix, AZ in June of 2002.  He spent his time consulting intermittently for about five years, investing in the stock market, fishing at his secret waterhole and fly fishing at Lee’s Ferry.  He also enjoyed waterskiing, houseboating on Lake Powell in the summers, and serving in his church.

Paul was recognized for his service with the Boy Scouts of America with the Silver Beaver Award.  He was very proud of being able to help many of the young men achieve the rank of Eagle Scout.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara; his two sons, Adam Michael Weeden and Dr. Brandon Paul Weeden and his wife Kelli Weeden; eight grandchildren:  Tyson Cheval, Michael Weeden, Emma Weeden, Hailey Weeden, Brayden Weeden, Olivia Weeden, Lexi Weeden, and Graysen Weeden; and his sister, Janet Weeden.

A Memorial Service will be held April, 11, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3527 W. Happy Valley Road, Phoenix, AZ.

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.

Mitchell Dean Pixler, age 62, passed away March 31, 2025. Mitchell was born on April 17, 1962, in Mesa, Arizona. He has an identical twin brother Michael Alan Pixler. There were the first children of Richard and Marilynn Pixler. Except for 5 years of his life, he has lived in Arizona. The first 5 years he lived in Tempe with his family and then his father was hired as an airline pilot for Western Airlines, because of that their family relocated to Los Angeles for work. They lived there for 5 years and then their family moved back to Arizona and a home in Phoenix for 3 years. In Phoenix he and his brother attended Orangewood Jr. High and then Washington High School. They made a lot of friends there and mowed people’s lawns and had paper routes to make their own money.

Mitchell’s parents then brought 2 ½ acers of land in Tempe, AZ so they could build their own house. As a young man, he helped his dad build their home. Mitchell attended Corona del Sol High School and was very popular and had many friends, girls and boys. He was always the “life of the party”. Mitchell also had a younger brother, Martin Bradley, 4 years younger, a sister, Laura Deann, 8 years younger, and a baby brother, Adam Jason, 16 years younger. Mitchell started playing drums and became an excellent drummer. He loved music and could play his drums for hours and hours. He and his brothers had a lot of fun together through the years, loving cars and all of them working on their cars, day and night. Mitchell and his twin brother, Michael, worked one summer in Maui, Hawaii picking and planting pineapples. They worked hard there but had a lot of fun going to beach ETC. Mitchell was married for 9 years and then divorced and had no children. Mitchell has many different jobs/ He worked in 2 different service stations and in many different restaurants. At one time he worked in a machine shop. In one pizza restaurant, he was the manager, cook and bottle washer. He made the largest, best pizza in Tempe. He became a good cook and would have friends come over to his home for barbeques. One time he cooked a complete Thanksgiving dinner for a friend and his whole family and set a formal table with linen, china, and crystal. They were amazed. Mitchell bought his own home and was so proud of it and kept it neat and clean. He bought and drove a beautiful Harley with friends on weekends. He had a jeep and a beautiful pickup truck.

Mitchell went to truck driving school and became an over-the-road truck driver and drove all over the United States for about 5 years. He loved and hated it because he wished he could be home more. He finally sold his truck and became a Dump Truck driver. He loved that job so much and got to be home every night. Each day he drove an average of 450 miles all through the Phoenix Valley. All of Mitchell’s Bosses loved him and told him he was their best employee, never missed work and was always on time.

Mitch as he was called all his life was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day-Saints. He loved to listen to CDs of the scriptures and many church books while driving across country.

Mitchell was very ill for three years and passed away peacefully in the hospital in Mesa, Arizona. He is survived by his parents. Richard and Marilynn Pixler, his twin brother, Michael (Medin) his brother, Martin, his sister Laura Duerr (George). He is predeceased by his brother, Adam who passed away 1 ½ years ago.

The funeral for Mitchell Dean Pixler will be beheld on April 10^th with a viewing at 9:00am and a funeral at 10:00am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day-Saints, 2740 South Lindsay Road. Gilbert, AZ.

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.

Pauline Caroline De Roock VanNoy, 85, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones.

She was born on June 12, 1939, on the island of Java, Indonesia. Her early years were marked by remarkable resilience as she and her family endured the hardships of World War II, including life in a Japanese concentration camp. Her childhood stories — from escaping a wild boar in the forest to surviving a close encounter with a python — were nothing short of extraordinary, and she shared them with humor, grace, and gratitude for her many blessings.

After the war, her family relocated to Zeist, Holland, where she embraced a new life and eventually discovered her faith through the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. At just 19, she courageously immigrated to the United States to pursue opportunity and adventure, bringing with her a suitcase of dreams and her mother’s sewing machine.

She met her husband, LaDon, in California, and together they built a beautiful life. She became a devoted wife and mother to three children: Lann, Hasana, and JoDal. In her career, she was a Pan Am flight attendant, a VIP hostess for Western Airlines & Delta Airlines and retired after 33 years. She was also an entrepreneur who opened the first Montessori school in Tempe, Arizona. In addition, she worked side-by-side with her husband in their construction business, all while raising a family and opening her home to youth and international students in need.

Known for her elegance, humor, strong faith, and generous spirit, she touched the lives of countless people—from dignitaries and celebrities to neighbors and strangers. Her stories could fill volumes, and her love of life was infectious. She lived by the motto: “Teach your children to love one another, to sing, to work hard, and to pray together.”

She is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and all those she “adopted” along the way. She will be deeply missed and joyfully remembered.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 5620 E. Adobe Street, Mesa, Arizona 85205, with a viewing at 10:00 a.m. prior. Interment will be at Thayne Cemetery in Star Valley, Wyoming next to her dearly beloved eternal companion.

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.