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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.

James (Jim) Rose was a loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. He will be sorely missed by the surviving members of his extended family, including Char, his wife of 27 years, siblings, Peggy Caughlin (Walt), Sue Laret (Jim), and Scott Rose (Jan). He was father to 3 children, Steven Rose (deceased) David Rose and Holly Richards (Brett). He was also a father to Char’s daughters, Renee Lindberg (TJ) and Rhonda Bender (AJ). He was a loving grandfather and great-grandfather.

Jim was born on June 7, 1944, in Philadelphia to William “Bill” and Margaret Jane Grieb. His father was an Army pilot in WWII, who was shot down on a bombing mission over Germany in May 1945 and was never privileged to meet his only son, Jimmy. Jim was raised by the loving Wilt and Grieb families. When Jim was 8 years old, he and his 5-year-old sister, Peggy, moved to Orinda, California with their mother, Jane, and their new father Elliott “Bill” Rose. Jim spent the next 10 years going to Orinda Grammar School, Pine Grove Jr. High, Miramontes High School where he graduated with honors. During this time, he played baseball extensively, earned an Eagle Scout and was Junior Class President. He also worked part time at Safeway stores, so that he could fund his interest in the old jalopy that he loved to work on.

Upon graduating from Miramontes, Jim spent a summer at Echo Lake in Tahoe working at Safeway and further expanding his interest in the great outdoors i.e., fishing, boating, hunting, camping, and hiking. These were activities that he had learned as a young boy in the Rose family, and that he would pursue the rest of his life.

Jim then went to Forest Grove, Oregon, to attend Pacific University for two years. He also worked for Safeway Stores part time at first and then full time as Assistant Store Manager prior to joining the Army during the Vietnam Conflict in 1968.

After joining the Army, Jim immediately tested to become a pilot so he could go to flight school to fly Huey (UH-1) helicopters. While in Vietnam he flew many combat missions as a Huey pilot. As a testament to his bravery and skill (and luck) Jim led an emergency resupply mission to support American troops in contact with the enemy in the pitch dark. The mission was a success despite taking heavy enemy fire and for this heroic action, Jim would earn the Distinguished Flying Cross – one of our Nation’s highest military honors.

Following Vietnam, Jim would earn his college degree and ultimately rise to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 5 (CW5) while serving 30 years on active duty with assignments around the globe in places like Germany, Korea, and Fort Ord, California, before his final assignment at Fort Huachuca as an instructor pilot in Sierra Vista, Arizona, where he met Char, the love of his life.

Jim’s leadership, organizational skills, and experience as a pilot – first in helicopters, then in fixed wing aircraft – made him an ideal candidate to continue his service to our Nation as the civilian airfield manager at Fort Huachuca for many years. Throughout his career and after retirement, he loved to travel around the world.  But as he grew older, Jim especially loved spending time with his family.

Jim/Jimmy/James passed away unexpectedly on February 16, 2025 at his home in Mesa, AZ. Because of the suddenness of his death his family and friends were completely unprepared and are devastated. We are all still processing our loss and its extent.

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, April 17, at 2:00 pm at Bunker University Chapel at 3529 East University Drive, Mesa, AZ 85213.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association scholarship program administered through the Army Aviation Association of America: https://quad-a.ejoinme.org/MyPages/DonationPage/tabid/224843/Default.aspx

To Send a check: Make Check Payable to AAAASFI, In the memo section, input “VHPA-IHO James Rose”
Mail to:
AAAASFI
593 Main Street
Monroe, CT 06468

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.

ElDeane Maye Heugly Wood, born on January 14, 1940, was called to her heavenly home on April 2, 2025, at the age of 85. She was welcomed by her Father in Heaven and her Savior, along with her husband, Dale, and their son, Garry. Also there to greet her were her parents, in-laws, beloved aunts and uncles, and many cherished friends who had gone before her.

ElDeane’s legacy lives on through her children: Pam (Wayne) Sorensen, Barry (Suzy) Heugly, Vickie (Don) Hunter, Christie (Troy) Campbell, Todd (Bridgitte) Heugly, Brett Heugly, and Cindy (Blaine) Spencer. She is also survived by her second husband, H. Kim Wood, her sister Louann Barlow, stepchildren, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

As a child, ElDeane enjoyed dancing and helping her Uncle Ted and Aunt Verla on their farm, where she and her sister Louann spent hours playing with their cousins. She was exceptionally talented in fencing and was even recruited to join the University of Utah’s fencing team, though life took her on a different path.

ElDeane met her eternal companion, Dale E. Heugly, at a mutual friend’s house, and it was love at first sight. They were married on January 15, 1960, and later sealed for time and eternity in the Salt Lake Temple. Together, they raised seven of their eight children, filling their home with the constant activity of dance, sports, and family life.

Throughout her life, ElDeane was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She excelled at nearly everything she set her hands to. As a loving homemaker, she became well-known for her creativity and resourcefulness. She was the ultimate DIY Queen, sewing clothes for her children, including the girls’ wedding dresses, and crafting beautiful quilts for each new baby. Her talents extended to sewing, knitting, crocheting, baking, gardening, quilting, and canning, always providing for her family and friends. ElDeane was also a skilled scorekeeper, bookkeeper, substitute teacher, caterer, professional cake decorator, and genealogist — just a few of the many ways she lived her life.

A disciple of Christ and a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, ElDeane faithfully served in various callings throughout her life. She particularly found joy in her roles in the Relief Society, as a missionary for the Mesa Family Search Center, as a Temple Worker, and as a teacher to the youth. She embraced each opportunity to serve, all while caring for Dale, who was disabled due to a back injury for over 30 years, until his passing in 2012.

In 2016, ElDeane married H. Kim Wood, and together, they blended their families. Chris (Laurie) Wood, Steve Wood, Kathy (Rick) Rogers, Kendall (Lenore) Wood, and Robert (Tiffinie) Wood, became cherished family members. Kim and ElDeane found joy in traveling the world together, visiting beautiful destinations like Barcelona, Greece, Mexico, Branson, Alaska, Oregon, and Hawaii, among others. Their shared adventures brought them immense joy and comfort. Their relationship was a beautiful example of love, companionship, friendship, and respect.

In 2021, ElDeane was diagnosed with kidney failure and breast cancer. Despite the challenges, she faced each day with grace, determination, and love for her family and Kim. When the cancer metastasized in 2024, Kim was by her side, faithfully caring for her until her final days.

ElDeane’s life was one of love, service, and resilience. Her example of faith, strength, and dedication touched countless lives with her kindness and generosity and will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. She truly lived a Christlike life.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at 12:00 PM, preceded by a visitation and viewing from 10:00 to 11:30 AM at the LDS Church Building, 745 N Val Vista Dr, Mesa, AZ 85205.

ElDeane will be laid to rest on Saturday, April 12, 2025, with a graveside service at 11:00 AM at the Henefer, Utah Cemetery. www.walker-mortuary.com

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.

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Ronald Kay Sirrine on April 2, 2025, at the age of 84. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Ron lived a life rich in faith, family, and music.

Born and raised in Mesa, Arizona, Ron was the youngest of four children of George Onel Sirrine and Vera Cluff Sirrine. A proud fourth-generation native with deep pioneer roots, Ron held his heritage close to his heart. He graduated from Mesa High School in 1958, where he was a proud Jackrabbit and often shared his favorite saying, “Carry On.”

Ron was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He served a 2½-year mission in the Germany Frankfurt Mission and remained deeply devoted to the gospel throughout his life. He loved attending the temple and served in various roles, including as a ward and stake missionary, always eager to share his strong testimony of Jesus Christ.

Music was Ron’s lifelong passion. He began playing piano at the age of 8 and went on to teach hundreds of students over the years. As an accomplished concert pianist, he performed for Presidents Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter, and graced stages large and small throughout his life. Whether performing at weddings, private gatherings, or simply sitting down at a piano whenever he had the chance, Ron’s music uplifted and inspired all who heard it.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in English and History and a master’s in German from Arizona State University. His love of language and culture, along with a deep sense of adventure, led him on many travels, including cherished family road trips to Alberta, Canada, and European adventures with his beloved wife, Sandra.

Ron met Sandra Bullock in 1952 at the age of 12, and they were sealed in the Cardston Alberta Temple in 1963. Together they raised five children: Sharee (Blake) Peavler, Stephanie Shepherd, Jennifer (Brian) Dunks, Scott (deceased), and Natalie (David) Romney. Ron was a proud grandfather to 15 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, siblings Keith, Gail, and Nadine, and his son Scott. He will be remembered for his musical gifts, his kindness, his love of family and faith, and his infectious sense of humor.

Ron’s legacy of faith, music, and love lives on in the lives of those he touched. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Viewing & Services:

A viewing will be held on Thursday, April 10th from 6:00–8:00 PM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 925 N. Harris, Mesa, AZ 85203.

A second viewing will be held on Friday, April 11th at 10:00 AM, followed by a Celebration of Life at 11:00 AM at the same location. Burial will follow at Mesa City Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements are provided by Bunkers Funeral Home, 33 North Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ 85201.

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.

Kenneth Van Wagner passed away peacefully on January 29, 2025, at his home in Mesa, Arizona, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on September 22, 1942, in Ballston Spa, New York.

He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 44 years, Patti (Warren) Van Wagner; four children from his first marriage to Sandra (Kelly) Peters: Tammy (Michael), Bryan (Tuli), Michelle, and Karen (Chris); grandchildren Brianna, James, Stephanie, Andres, Bradley, and Lexi; as well as nieces and nephews, William, Nicki, Heidi, Corey, and Kenneth. He was predeceased by his parents, Nicholas and Pansy (Stockwell) Van Wagner; his sister Kathryn Courville; his beloved dogs Shelley, Tanzey, Pixie, and Bleu; and his horse, Memory.

After attending Schuylerville High School, Ken served in the U.S. Navy. He later earned an engineering degree from Hudson Valley Community College (which he proudly referred to as “Harvard on the Hudson”), launching a 35-year career working on roads and bridges for Cahn Engineering, Greiner Engineering, and DA Collins/Kubricky.

Ken and Patti shared a love for traveling, with some of their favorite destinations being Maine, Arizona, Hawaii, and Alaska. In 2002, they moved to Mesa, Arizona, fulfilling a lifelong dream for Ken. While in Arizona, he enjoyed long walks and hikes with Patti and loved riding his horse, Memory, in the desert. He also relished driving up challenging mountain roads and capturing photographs of everything that caught his eye.

If you knew Ken, you knew him with a camera always around his neck. He viewed the world through that lens, capturing tens of thousands of slides (yes, slides) and digital images of the things he loved: family, friends, dogs, cats, barn horses, wild horses, birds, flowers, sunsets, mountains, and even bridges and roads from his job sites. He found beauty in everything and couldn’t resist capturing it. His passion for getting the perfect shot—whether it was the perfect lighting, angle, or composition—was unwavering. He would stop at almost nothing to get that shot.

As spring approaches, we will be reminded of Ken with every new bud on a tree, every hummingbird that catches our eye, and every flower that blooms. If you see a beautiful sunset on your way home, pull over and admire it as he would have. But perhaps refrain from climbing over barriers or standing in the middle of the road to get the perfect shot, as he often did.

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.

James Higie,61, passed away on April 2, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel (480.964.8686).

Carolyn Curtis Tanner was born in Litchfield Park, Arizona on January 7, 1941. She was the oldest of 5 children (Nik–deceased, Linda, Bobbie, and Ann) born to Armon and Fay Curtis.

She was married to her sweetheart, Lyle Tanner, in the Mesa Arizona temple on June 4, 1959. These two lovebirds welcome three children into their home, Dianna, Curtis, and Mike. Over the years the family moved around from AZ, FL, CA, and MI, pursuing education and professional opportunities, with Lyle and Carolyn building their home in Queen Creek, AZ.

Carolyn was actively involved in her church and her favorite callings were when she could teach the gospel to others and serve in the temple. She advocated for education for all, was the keeper of family stories, and sought to better the world wherever she was. She loved to create beautiful things, sewing her own clothes and draperies, and was known for her homemade rolls. She loved to travel and experience new places, people, cultures, and perspectives.

Her passionate love for all of God’s children was passed onto her from her mother and grandmothers. Her desire to become a teacher was finally realized at the age of 40. She taught primary grades for 9 years, then transitioned to being a Secondary School Principal, ending her career working for the Arizona State Department of Education focusing on ensuring reading success for children.

She took great joy in the lives of her 3 children, 10 grandchildren, and 14 great grandchildren with 3 more on the way. She would always light up whenever she saw them and was known for bragging about their accomplishments to her morning walking group.

Carolyn passed away in Florence, AZ on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 in the loving care of her cousins, Kim and Marilyn Willis.

She is proceeded in death by her parents Armon and Fay, brother Nik, sweetheart Lyle Tanner, and second husband Dean Clarkson.

She is survived by her sisters, her 3 children, 10 grandchildren, and soon to be 17 great grandchildren.

Memorial Service will be held on Saturday April 19, 2025 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located at 1249 S 48^th St, Mesa, AZ 85206.

The viewing will be from 8:30-9:45am with the Memorial Service starting at 10am. A graveside service to follow at ~12:30pm at the Mesa Cemetery (1212 N Center St, 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.

Julie Annette Slade, age 64, of Mesa, Arizona passed away on March 28^th, 2025.  Born May 28, 1960 in Grants, New Mexico Julie moved to Arizona with her mother and brother at the age of 8.

Julie attended Emerson Elementary, Carson Jr. High and graduated from Westwood High School in 1978.  She took a few college courses at Mesa Community College.

Julie married Jess Slade in 1979.  She was a devoted wife and mother and raised two children.  She began working along side her husband, Jess, at their pizza restaurant in 1985 and continued there until retiring in 2024.

Julie loved playing softball and volleyball, the color purple, and watching her favorite Arizona Diamondbacks.  She was an avid reader, enjoyed every minute with her grand kids, and basked in the love of her animals and the wonders of Chihuly glass.  She was a frequent shopper on QVC and even the deliveryman suggested an intervention might be in order.

Julie is survived by her husband, Jess E. Slade; son Ryan Slade and daughter Justine Leslie Slade; grandchildren Owen Slade, Kinsie and Kaleb Tomas; brothers, Brett and Kirk White and sister Amber Blanch.

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.

Ellenjean Plumb was born Oct 10, 1928 in Lewiston, Utah to Boyd and Zethel Ririe. Ellenjean had one brother, Lamont, who preceded her in death.

She took her last earthly breath Mar 29, 2025 in Mesa, Az.

Widow of Theodore Plumb. Ellenjean gave birth to 7 children. Their names with current spouses are: David Plumb Nathan and Nina Plumb Nancy Gibson Lloyd Plumb Robert and Lisa Plumb Roy Plumb and Christopher and Kristanna Plumb. She has been blessed with being able to know many grandchildren and great grandchildren in her lifetime. They are all special to her.

She played violin, piano, and the organ. She enjoyed painting and sewing crafts.

She was a wonderful and dedicated matriarch who did her best to make sure everyone including her blood family was cared for. Ellenjean would always light up with joy every time you walked in the room. She would ask questions and show genuine interest in your life. She remembered important details and was genuinely excited that you came to talk with her. She had a way to make you feel like you were the most important part of her day.

Interred at National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona in Phoenix with her husband Theodore Plumb.

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.

Ellen Gail Sarracino, born on May 15, 1945, passed away peacefully at home on March 29, 2025. She was greeted by her husband, Michael Sarracino, and her sons, Joey and Danny Grijalva.

Gail leaves behind a legacy of love and family, survived by her sister, Cookie Valencia, her daughters, Kimberly Hubbard (Randy Hubbard) and Misti Sarracino, as well as her grandchildren, Dylan Neely (Monique Neely), Jordyn, Jade, Tai Clay, Jayden, Brooklynn Phillips, Aamani, and Ameeyah Hurt. Additionally, she cherished her eight great-grandchildren: Adin, Gannin Clay, Mallory, Malachi, and Messiah Meredith, Guinevere and Luke Neely, and Kalaya Thomas.

Known for her fierce and passionate demeanor, quick wit, and generous heart, Gail was a beacon of strength and mystery to all who knew her. Her presence will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched. Gail’s memory will live on in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Gail will be laid to rest in a family plot in Socorro, NM alongside her mother, siblings and son.

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 honor the life of Dean Takeo Kashiwagi, a devoted husband, father, scholar, visionary, and friend, whose journey touched lives around the globe. Born on the island of Oahu, Hawaii, to Shizuo and Midori Kashiwagi, Dean’s life was a testament to simplicity, truth-seeking, faith, and service. His relentless curiosity led him to uncover truths that simplified complexity and transformed systems worldwide.

Dean grew up in a culturally rich Japanese-American home in Hawaii, the youngest of three siblings. His early years were marked by deep introspection, quiet observation, and a desire to understand the “why” behind everything. Though he often felt overlooked, these experiences became the foundation of his life’s work—turning blindness into vision through logic, observation, and love.

As a young man, Dean served a mission in Japan for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, an experience that deeply shaped the course of his life. His love for sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ was unwavering. He remained a faithful disciple and member of the Church until the end and was known for his sincere desire to invite others to come unto Christ in both word and action.

A proud graduate of the University of Hawaii, Dean went on to earn his master’s and Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering from Arizona State University while serving in the U.S. Air Force. After 14 years of military service, he retired as a Major and began a new chapter in academia. At ASU, he founded the Performance Based Studies Research Group (PBSRG) and pioneered the Information Measurement Theory (IMT) and Best Value Approach (BVA)—innovations that would go on to influence procurement, leadership, and project management across the world.

Dean’s greatest joy, however, was his family. With his beloved wife Judy, he raised eight children—his first and most important research group. Dean often credited Judy as the “originator” of IMT, recognizing her influence, insight, and strength at every stage of the journey. Their home became the living lab where ideas turned into solutions, and where leadership was practiced through love, alignment, and faith.

Dean was a man of boundless energy, determined focus, and unwavering faith. He believed that “those who understand don’t need to control,” and that true leadership comes not from influence, but from alignment and clarity. He taught people to see more clearly, live more simply, and love more deeply.

Dean leaves behind a legacy of wisdom, faith, and simplicity. He is survived by his wife Judy; their six children and numerous grandchildren; and a worldwide network of students, colleagues, and friends who carry forward his vision.

Dean’s memory will forever be a light to those seeking clarity in a complex world—and a reminder that in simplicity, there is power.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to causes that support missionary work, youth leadership, and education.

https://donate.churchofjesuschrist.org/…/missionary-fund

A viewing will be held on April 11th from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at 2549 N 32nd St, Mesa, AZ – Church Building

The funeral service will take place on April 12th from 8:30 to 9:30 AM at 2549 N 32nd St, Mesa, AZ – Church Building followed by a graveside burial for family.

The service will be broadcast online for those who cannot be there in person. Please follow this link: https://zoom.us/j/99645629944

A private luncheon for family will be held afterward by personal invitation.

We appreciate your love and support during this difficult time.

If you are flying from out of town, please contact Joe 480-313-4488 so we know that you will be attending!

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.