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Sam Henry Pierce Jr

Sunrise   September 13, 1948  –   Sunset   September 1, 2023

Sam was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to the late Samuel and Julia Mae Pool Pierce. He attended East High School in Paterson, NJ. He received his GED in the Job Corps and always said, “If you are in High School, stay there, because getting a GED is far worse than sticking it out.” After Job Corps he joined IBM. Then during the Vietnam War Sam decided not wait for the call, but enter the Army and serve. After leaving the military he joined AT&T as a corporate Manger and received numerous certifications from the Innovated School of Knowledge at AT&T. Once Sam retired from AT&T, he moved to Arizona and joined the Veterans Administration to aid his brother and sister as a Medical Support Assistant.

Sam is survived by his long-time friend and wife of 49 yrs. and 8 months, Bernida Fullard-Pierce. Three sons Octavio (Maria) Williams of Flint, MI, Dashwan Pierce, of Buckeye AZ, and Quyan Pierce, of Yuma, AZ. Four daughters Okesia Williams of Newark, NJ, Latonda Shelborne, of Gilbert AZ, Joessette (Bryan) Baldwin, of Mesa AZ, and his baby girl Samantha Pierce, of Gilbert, AZ. Two granddaughters, Octavia (Troy) Amerson, of Flint MI, Bernida Pierce, of Gilbert, AZ. Two grandsons Tierel Shelborne, of Grand Blanc, MI, Sam E. Pierce, Gilbert AZ. One great-granddaughter Nia Amerson of Flint, MI. One sister Louella Jenkins of Camden NJ, one brother Carl Pierce of Camden, NJ. A host of nieces and nephews from east coast to west coast.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters Vondell Weaks, Nora Patton and brother Charlie Pierce.

Hey Guys,

Stay sweet, kind, and loving. Treat each other like today is your last day. I leave you to celebrate my home going, not to be sad, but remembering all the good times we shared.

Love, Dad

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.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Marlene S. Lemieux, our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, who left us on September 4th, 2023. Marlene was born on February 15th, 1935, and throughout her 88 years of vibrant life, she touched many hearts with her sweet, caring, and selfless nature.

Marlene married her soulmate, the late Marc W. Lemieux, on March 30, 1953. They were sealed for time and all eternity in the Mesa Arizona Temple on July 15, 1956. Their bond was a testimony of true love and companionship, reinforced by shared laughter and cherished memories. She was a devoted mother to their children; sons Marc Jr. (Jeanette) , Mike (Debbie), Duane (Joyce), Jere, Tere (Darla), and daughter Marie McGhan (Curtis), all of whom survive her along with their 31 grandchildren and 74 great-grandchildren. Her family was the centerpiece of her universe, and she enriched their lives with her thoughtful, loving, and personable demeanor.

Known for her easy-going, dependable, and constantly forthright personality, Marlene was a beacon of positivity. Her whimsical wit, gracious elegance, and gentle kindness made her a joy to be around. Rarely without a puzzle at hand, she had a brilliant knack for linking pieces together, a metaphor for how she connected with people around her. At home, she inspired a love for puzzles in her children and grandchildren, generation after generation. These quiet moments working side-by-side on a puzzle often led to many meaningful conversations. Her wisdom and support whether in the living room, on the sidelines at a game, at a concert or recital will be sorely missed. It was not uncommon for her to be heard saying, “be the peacemaker” and “when all is said and done, family will be there”.

Marlene’s professional accomplishments were as impressive as her personal ones. She diligently served at the AZ DPS for 25 years. Her role offered the perfect platform for her direct, dependable, and graceful persona.

Funny, yet tender-hearted, Marlene was not without her quirks. Her fear of birds was well-known within her close-knit circle, adding a dash of humor to the family tales. Always soft-spoken but strongly influential, Marlene Lemieux’s legacy will live on in the hearts she touched and the lives she enriched.

Our mom, grandma, and great grandma will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, September 9^th, 2023, at 10 AM, preceded by a viewing at 9 AM at the LDS Church Building at 2228 E. Brown Road, Mesa, AZ.

If you would like to view the service online, you will be able to follow the link: https://zoom.us/j/93601271404

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.

Rebecca Rasmussen Alvord, our wonderful wife, mother and grandmother passed away peacefully at the age of 73 on the morning of Thursday, August 31^st 2023 in Provo, Utah.  She was surrounded by her loving husband Richard Thomas Alvord and other family members.

Becky was born June 22^nd 1950 in Florence, Arizona to IO and Mary Rasmussen and was the youngest sibling to George, Ann and John.  Becky described her childhood as magical, as she lived on various ranches and farms in Phoenix, Litchfield Park, Blythe and Tempe.  Shoes were optional as she spent her early years climbing trees, raising lambs and finding new adventures.

She attended McClintock High School, where she was a member of the pom line and received the award for most outstanding business student. After graduating she attended Brigham Young University where she obtained a degree in education.

She and her husband Rich briefly met as children, before crossing paths again while cruising Central Avenue as high school students.  Years later, they found each other in another chance meeting on a crosswalk between the student union building and the library on campus at BYU.  At this moment, the two knew that they were destined for each other and later married on September 10^th 1971 at the Mesa, Arizona Temple.

Upon completing their education, they returned home to Arizona where Rich began his career at Royal Sign.  Living in Paradise Valley and Tempe, Becky lovingly devoted her life to raising their four children, Karie Owens (Raymond), Mandy Rohner (Travis), Tara Reid (Ken) and Dane Alvord (Kathryn).  During these years as a mother to her growing children, Becky selflessly gave her time and energy to the people around her.  She enjoyed attending her children’s sporting events, lifting weights with her husband, trips to Lake Powell, reading and quilting whenever she could find the time.

Becky was a steadfast disciple of Jesus Christ.  She served in various roles with the primary, young women, and as a president of the Relief Society.  In church, and in the home, she shared her boundless optimism, joy and cheerfulness, finding the good in all people and all situations.  She enjoyed expressing her love through the perfect gift on birthdays and holidays, making those she loved feel uniquely special and cared for.

Becky is survived by her three siblings, her husband, her four children, her fifteen grandchildren, and her one great granddaughter.  Before her passing, Becky stated that she lived a life of adventure, love and happiness, and that she could not have lived a better life than the one she was blessed with.  She would wish to express her love and gratitude to all those who enriched her life.

Funeral services are scheduled for Saturday, September 16^th 2023 at 1111 E. Knox Road in Tempe, Arizona.  Visitation will begin at 10:00am, with a memorial service at 11:00am.  Interment to follow at the City of Mesa Cemetery.

For those unable to be present, the service can be viewed live via Zoom at: https://zoom.us/j/92778157071

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.

Ina Hancock passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Friday, August 25, 2023, at the age of 93. She was in her home, where she wanted to be, and surrounded by loved ones.

Ina came from humble beginnings when she was born April 24, 1930 in Aripine, Arizona, in a cabin with no floors or even glass in the windows. She was the eldest of 4 children born to Don and Mada Petersen:  Ina, Jean (Petersen) McMullin, Marvin Don Petersen, and Lawerence Jay Petersen. She attended a one-room schoolhouse for four years in Standford, AZ and later attended a two-room schoolhouse in Pinedale, AZ. She graduated from 8^th grade as valedictorian and later from Snowflake High School in 1947.

Her future husband, Herb (or Bert, depending on what side of the family you’re on) first saw Ina when he was 8 years old. He announced to his mother he had seen “the most beautiful creature {he} had ever seen.”  Herbert also told his mother he would marry that beautiful creature, and he later did on November 13, 1948. A week after they were married, Herb was transferred overseas by the Air Force and would be gone for 28 months in Japan and Korea. When he came back, they finally began their married lives as Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Hancock. They had four sons: Brendon, Loran, Garrett and Kyle. Brendon would pass away in 1971 as the result of an automobile accident while serving a mission for the LDS Church. Ina and Herb managed to stay strong and keep their faith during this difficult time.

Ina and Herb were born during a time where Americans expected to work and stay busy their whole lives. Ina held many jobs during her life and worked with Herb, in addition to raising 4 boys and actively serving in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Even after a formal retirement they both continued to volunteer at the temple and helping their community any way they could, Ina even into her 90s­­- verifying and transcribing thousands of old records to be uploaded into the church’s database. She was a skilled typist, writer, organist, singer and pianist. She kept meticulous records and documents, even writing books on her mother and son Brendon. She was also a skilled baker and candymaker, and was constantly creating new concoctions for her family to test out. It’s no wonder­- she had a terrible sweet tooth, which seems to have been passed down 3 generations so far.

Ina Hancock leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity and service. She will be missed by all who knew her. She is survived by her sons Loran, Garrett and his wife Lilly, Kyle, and grandchildren Angelica, Sabrina (Ian), Holly (Greg), Daniel, and great grandchildren William and Elena (Sabrina and Ian) and Ivy (Holly and Greg.)

A service will be held on Saturday, September 2^nd at 9:00 am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2740 S Lindsay Rd, Gilbert Arizona 85296, followed by a graveside service at the Pinedale Cemetery at 3 pm.

Bradley “Brad” Joseph Standage, of Simi Valley, California passed away on July 7, 2023.

Brad was born on May 17^th, 1977, in Newport Beach, CA. He was the eldest of 4 siblings born to Kim and Margaret Standage. Brad was a kind, hard working and responsible young man who earned his Eagle Scout and graduated from Mountain View High School class of 1995.

In 1998 while hosting friends and showing them around his hometown in Arizona, he met the love of his life Monica. Brad and Monica were married in Los Angeles on May 15, 1999. Brad was a faithful and devoted husband for the rest of his days and made it his mission to ensure that his wife wanted for nothing and knew how much he loved her. Brad had a special place in his heart for the animals of this world and was Dad to Roxy (Great Dane), Bruja(Feline), Gordo (Feline), Kit Kat Apple Sauce (Feline), and Walter (Feline).

In 2001 Brad joined and graduated from the Mesa Police Academy. He proudly served the community of Mesa for 11 years as a police officer, field training officer and detective. During his time with the Mesa PD, he received several accolades including a Medal of Honor for valor. Following his retirement from the police department, Brad continued to serve his fellow service men and women by ensuring their financial security through his work with Public Safety Financial/Galloway.

Brad brought an extreme amount of joy to all who knew him. He was the best uncle in the world to numerous nieces and nephews and the best friend anyone could ask for. He was a voice for the voiceless and a defender of justice. He was a lover and supporter of live music, including being one of the earliest supporters of his hometown hero’s Jimmy Eat World. Brad was a huge fan of space exploration, a star gazer and loved watching SpaceX rocket launches. He looked forward to traveling to Mars someday. There are no words to describe just how amazing a person Brad was, but to say he was extremely loved by all those that were fortunate enough to know him.

Brad is preceded in death by his grandparents Melvin & Helen Standage, Justa “Mama Justa” Campos, Blaine & Mary Margaret Benson, and uncles Bob Benson and Robert Standage. He is survived by his wife Monica Leal Standage, his parents Kim and Margaret Standage, mother and father-in-law Juana and Arnoldo Leal, his sisters, brothers and sisters in law, numerous nieces and nephews and many loved ones who will remember him as a loving man that always brought fun, humor, and a beautiful smile to every occasion. A man who loved his family fiercely and deeply.

In lieu of flowers, family asks you to make a donation to the following charities:

• https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
• https://www.nfrf.org/get-involved/
• https://www.commonhope.org/
• https://www.aclu.org/
• https://petsmartcharities.org/

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.

Bruce Cassaday passed away peacefully surrounded by family on August 18, 2023, in Mesa Arizona.

Bruce was born October 10, 1935, in Hope Michigan to Sylvester and Pauline Cassaday.

His childhood memories were of playing in the fields with friends and his 6 siblings on the family farm.

He had relocated to Arizona at the beginning of his sophomore year in high school and graduated from Mesa High School in 1954.

Bruce met the love of his life, Ellen, in 1959 and they were married in 1961. He graduated from Arizona State University with a bachelor’s degree in business management in 1960. In 1967, Bruce and Ellen moved to Colorado where they would raise their two children, Natalie and Doug. They lived in Colorado until 2021. The last 8 years they lived in Colorado they split their time between Colorado and Arizona.  They moved to Arizona permanently in 2021.

Bruce worked for Lockheed Martin in multiple positions over his 40-year career. He made many friends throughout his time at Lockheed Martin. He was a hard worker and well respected by his colleagues. In 2013, at the age of 77, Bruce retired.

He enjoyed camping, fishing and golf. One of his favorite things to do was to attend sporting events, with baseball being his first choice.

Bruce was a dedicated family man, and an amazing husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and uncle.

His gentle loving kindness will be missed immensely.

Donations can be made to The Salvation Army in memory of Bruce.

Bruce is survived by his wife Ellen of 62 years, son Douglas (Jill); grandchildren: Hannah, Matthew and Jenna; great-grandchildren: Weston, McKenzie and Natalie; brother: Calvin (Janet) Cassaday; sisters: Connie Freeman, Carol Freeman and Ellen Devericks; sister-in-law: Emily Cassaday; brother in law Bruce Dundas; and the best nieces and nephews a guy could ask for.

Bruce was preceded in death by his father Sylvester, mother Pauline, daughter Natalie, sister Emma Jean Dundas, brother Larry Cassaday and brothers-in-law Russ Devericks, Jim Freeman, and Don Freeman.

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.

We gather to honor Edith Eileen Reisig, cherished as Eileen, who graced our world for an exceptional 100 years, 6 months, and 30 days. She departed on August 19, 2023, in Fountain Hills, Arizona, leaving an irreplaceable legacy of kindness and compassion.

Born on January 23, 1923, in St. Louis, Missouri, Eileen witnessed 18 presidential administrations, embodying steadfast patriotism. Her tenacity during the Great Depression and ability to find joy in life’s simple treasures defined her spirit.

Eileen married World War II veteran Victor Reisig at 17, embarking on a journey of love and adventure. Their union brought forth a cherished family – a daughter born during
the war and two sons afterward. Together, they overcame challenges, from the shadows of the Depression to the uncertainties of war.

Eileen’s nurturing spirit flourished on their Greenville, Illinois farm, where she found joy in square dancing, homemade ice cream, and family bonds. Moving to Phoenix in 1964,
her devotion to faith thrived at First Southern Baptist Church and Conerstone Family Church, where her acts of kindness touched lives. Eileen’s legacy shines through traditions like crafting rice crispy peanut butter chocolate balls and her unwavering love for the Phoenix Suns. Her daily ritual of savoring dawn’s tranquility reflected her wonder for life’s beauty.

On September 2nd, we celebrate Eileen’s life at Conerstone Family Church of Fountain Hills, remembering her through donations to Casa de Amor.

Eileen’s legacy resonates in her three children, 11 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and beyond. Her impact is a radiant symbol of enduring love and guidance.
As we commemorate her life, we celebrate the profound imprint Eileen left – a beacon of love and light that will forever illuminate our path.

Arleen Mortensen Smith Herbert, age 90, passed away peacefully at home on August 18, 2023 in Mesa, Arizona.  She was born to Udell and Ada Mortensen in Bluewater, New Mexico in 1932.  Arleen led a very happy, active life filled with family, friends and many activities including scrapbooking, traveling and beachcombing.  She was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints throughout her life.  She was preceded in death by her first husband, Jay M. Smith, her second husband, Talmage M. Herbert, her parents Udell and Ada Mortensen, brothers Larry Mortensen, Leone Mortensen, Kent Mortensen, sister Vona Jo Edwardson, and stepson Bryan Herbert.  She is survived by her brother, Val Mortensen, four children, Jaylene Garrett (Bud), Rodney Smith (Rita), Cindy Bongiorno, Leslie Wilkins, and two stepchildren David Herbert (Terri) and Falene DeLeon.  Arleen had many grandchildren and great grandchildren that loved and cherished her as their grandmother.

Funeral services are Saturday, August 26, 2023 at 11:00 a.m., preceded by a visitation at 9:30 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints chapel, 1911 North 24^th Street, Mesa, AZ.  For family and friends that are unable to attend, the services will be available through this ZOOM link:  https://zoom.us/j/93601271404.

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.

Annie Ilene Wimmer, born August 30, 1937, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2023 in Mesa, AZ.  Ilene lead a very happy life filled with family, friends and church activities.  She was known to all for her love of gardening and had the most beautiful flowers in the neighborhood. Many would stop by to smell the roses or gather a bouquet for enjoyment in their home. In 1958, She met the love of her life, Duane Wimmer and they were married on October 15, 1958. She is survived by her 4 children Vicki Johnson (Jared), Darren Wimmer, Tricia Stevens (Dean), and Kimberlee Taylor (Dave). Her legacy, giving nature, and traditions will be carried on through her 11 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren. Her sweet spirit and smile will be missed by all. Funeral services are Saturday, August 19, 2023 at 9:30am, proceeded by a visitation at 8:30am, at LDS Church, 1054 W 2nd Pl, Mesa AZ 85201. Burial will be at Joseph City Cemetery in Joseph City AZ. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Bunker’s Family Funeral Home.

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.

Carrole Snow Hatch passed away peacefully August 14, 2023 at the age of 92.  She was born May 15, 1931 in St. George, Utah to Marian Miller Snow and Rulon Alma Snow.  Her childhood was spent climbing the red hills of St. George with her siblings and cousins. One of her earliest memories was walking hand-in-hand with her parents to the St. George LDS temple, where she was baptized at age eight.

In her school years, Carrole participated in music and drama, developed her skills as a seamstress, and spent her summers working at Bryce Canyon.  She graduated from Dixie High School in 1949 and attended BYU and Dixie College.

In 1950, she met Arthur J. Hatch and they were sealed for time and all eternity in the St. George temple on September 6, 1951.  The two shared a devotion to family and a strong work ethic.  Never afraid of a challenge, Carrole made her own wedding gown.

As a young mother, Carrole continued to share her talents, performing with a singing group and in community theater productions.  She modeled for local stores, sold housewares door to door, and later held a real estate license with her husband’s firm.

Carrole was warm, open, and inviting to all who visited her home, and she gave everyone a hug.  Her friends recall that she greeted them with endearments such as “punkin’, dearie, missy, kitty, or dolly.”  Her children and grandchildren enjoyed the best chocolate-chip cookies, caramel corn, and homemade bread.

Carrole helped her children appreciate their pioneer heritage and faithfully taught them the gospel of Jesus Christ in word and deed.  She served in many callings including stake Young Women’s president and ward Relief Society president.  As service missionaries in 2000, Art and Carrole hosted a traveling exhibition on the Dead Sea Scrolls.

Serving those in need gave Carrole great joy.  Her homemaking and crafting skills were used to bless others.  She made rugs, quilts, dresses, booties, hats, and toys, many of which were donated to Church Humanitarian Services.

Together, Art and Carrole raised four children, doted on 18 grandchildren and currently have 101 descendants.  They had been married 68 years when Art passed away in February of 2020.  Their posterity will treasure memories made at Lake Powell and their Pinetop cabin.

Carrole is survived by her children Rick Hatch (Peggy), Heather Hatch Rohner (Tim), Kreston Snow Hatch (Karen), and Pamela Hatch Kitchen (David).  Also by her sister, Rula Jean Snow Williams (Ned), and brother, Lowell “Rusty” Snow (Tammy).   She was predeceased by her parents, her eldest brother, Edward “Ted” Snow, and sister Sharlene Snow Lyman (Kurt).

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to caregivers Tori Judd and Kylie Watkins, and the staff of Beehive Homes Gilbert and Always Present Hospice Care.

Funeral services are scheduled for Monday, August 21 at the Northridge Ward Chapel, 2424 N. Old Gilbert Road.  Visitation will be at 9:00 am, with the memorial service at 10:00 am.  Interment to follow at the City of Mesa Cemetery.

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

Ari Kennedy, 31, died on 10 August 2023.

He was born in Santa Rosa, California, to William and Jill Kennedy.  He attended school in Mesa, Arizona, with sister Kitty before going on to study criminal law and creative writing.

While he was a deeply private man, he was known to his few confidantes as a closed book with guilded pages, always willing to listen instead of talk.  He will be remembered for his creative writing, his dark sense of humor, and his music with the ukelele.

Ari is survived by his mother Jill, his step-father John, and his sister Kitty.

A small, private viewing will be held 25 August 2023 at the Bunker Funeral Home, followed by a reception for family and friends.  Donations to the Southern Poverty Law Center in his honor are appreciated.

Doris A. Nicolaus, 95, passed on to eternal life on Friday, August 11, 2023. Doris was born on September 10, 1927 in Allentown, Pennsylvania. She was preceded in her death by her husband, Bob Nicolaus; one son, Robert Nicolaus; and her grandson, Brandon Mendoza.

She is survived by her children Barbara Stechnij; Jeanette Marr; Mary Ann Mendoza; Tom Nicolaus (Isabelle); and Richard Nicolaus. Doris also is survived by 20 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great granddaughters. She also leaves behind her sister, Nancy Walker.

Her parents moved their family from PA to Arizona in 1948. Doris was working at Williams Air Force Base where she met her future husband, Bob. They traveled the world for 20 years while Bob was still in the Air Force then returned to make their permanent home in Arizona.

Doris loved the cabin she and Bob built in Overgaard, spending summers there hiking and golfing. She built her own tax business, then Bob joined her when he retired from his second career in banking.

Always competitive, Doris loved playing games – especially parcheesi. The grandchildren who played with her learned very quickly that Grandma was going to challenge them if they wanted to win!

You will be sorely missed Mom, Grandma and Great-Grandma. Your legacy will live on through your children and grandchildren. Your cheerful attitude, even during trying times, is something we will all strive live up to.

A Rosary will be said in Doris’ memory at 10:30 am on August 18, 2023 at Christ the King Catholic Church at 1551 E. Dana Avenue in Mesa. Funeral Mass will be at 11:00 am immediately following the Rosary.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Mayo Foundation, 13400 E. Shea Blvd, Scottsdale, 85259 for Parkinsons Disease research.

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.

William Lewis Melzer was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on September 29, 1952, joining his parents Bob and Lois Melzer and older brother Hank. When Bill was 6 years old, his dad, who had a background in retail, decided to move the family west to open up his own Spudnuts donut shop in Scottsdale, Arizona. At young ages, Bill and Hank both worked for the family business. A younger brother Tom was born into their family.

Bill attended Coronado High School where he was on the school newspaper staff, which provided him the welcomed perk of skipping classes to report on extracurricular school activities. An avid reader from his youth, Bill read each volume of the family’s collection of Encyclopedia Britannica more than once, turning him into something of an encyclopedia himself. He read thousands of books over his lifetime and loved discussing them. Recognizing Bill’s aptitude for school, several of his teachers excused him from classes, only requiring him to show up for the final exams. This allowed Bill time to get his first job outside the family business at the age of 15. By the time he was 17 he had a resume to rival that of many college students and was hired at the Yellow Front store in Tempe.

It was at this Yellow Front store where Bill met a young job applicant named Helen Passey. Though this store wasn’t in need of another employee, Bill lobbied the manager to hire the beautiful blond-haired girl with whom he was immediately enamored. Fortunately, he prevailed upon the manager, as Bill and Helen were married three years later.  The couple started dating quickly and worked side by side for about a year and half until Bill realized that if he wanted Helen, he was going to need to join the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was baptized at 19 and has been a devoted member since. In 1973, Bill and Helen were married in the Mesa, Arizona Temple for time and all eternity, which gives Helen great comfort to know that their current separation will only be temporary.

Soon after their marriage, Bill graduated from ASU in accounting (despite his dream job being that of weatherman) and received his first church calling—early morning seminary teacher. It was while fulfilling this calling that Bill gained a sure testimony of the Book of Mormon. He fulfilled many callings over his life, but especially loved serving as Priest Quorum Advisor, where he was able to work with and mentor 16- to 18-year-old young men, and nursery, where he loved being with little children. Over the last many years, Bill served as Ward Clerk for the Mesa 30^th Ward and deeply valued the many relationships he built there.

After the marriage was already official, Helen told Bill that her life goal was to have 12 children. Luckily for everyone, Bill also loved children and together they had 9 of their own, with their first child, Emily (1974 – 2022) born in November 1974.  Bill was a dedicated father who was rarely photographed not holding a young child. He loved his children and often took them with him to work and on his trips out of town.

In February 1975, 22-year-old Bill was offered a managerial job at the Yellow Front store in Safford, Arizona. While living there, Bill was asked by a family friend to also work as the night manager at a recently opened McDonald’s location. This was the first instance of something which Bill did for much of his life—simultaneously have two full-time jobs.

In Safford, second daughter Rachel was added to the family. After 4 years in Safford, Bill was promoted at Yellow Front and they returned to Mesa, where third and fourth children, Ryan and Anna, were born. In 1982 when Bill was 29, Helen’s sister and brother-in-law died in a plane crash. Bill and Helen’s home was blessed with the addition of nieces and nephews Doug, Susie, Jimmy, and Kristie, with whom Bill remained close over the years. The family continued to grow with the arrivals of Angela, Steven, Daniel, James, and Lilly. At one point, Bill explained to Helen that she couldn’t have all the babies in the world!

Bill eventually became a regional manager and then Senior Vice President. Just before hundreds of Yellow Fronts closed all at once, Bill decided it was time to change careers. In 1988, he became an importer of men’s clothing and moved the family to Poway, California. Their time in California felt like a vacation for Helen and the kids, but Bill worked hard and traveled extensively to such far-flung destinations as New York, Hong Kong, Bangladesh, Turkey, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam. After 4 years, Bill decided to return to AZ and open his own general stores on the Navajo Reservation.

The family moved to Snowflake, Arizona, so he could be close to his stores. Eventually, he built a total of 11 stores on reservations in Arizona, Utah, and New Mexico. He was the supervisor and buyer for all 11 stores which kept him very busy and constantly traveling. After another 4 years the family moved to Mesa so he could be closer to the airport.

Bill eventually sold his stores and became the manager of the Mesa Deseret Industries. While there, Bill managed the retail operations, but also provided vocational and life skills training to countless individuals and employees, many of whom credit him as a profound influence in their lives. He was also asked to help manage the building and opening of a new Deseret Industries location in Phoenix. After years at Deseret Industries and simultaneously owning and operating his landscaping company, Pinnacle Maintenance Systems, Bill decided to retire from retail and focus on Pinnacle. At his peak, Pinnacle was landscaping and maintaining over 60 properties, primarily hotels and shopping centers. Bill’s white work truck he used during his years at Pinnacle was charmingly battle-worn and sported the extremely apt customized license plate WRK2HRD. Over the last few years, Bill developed atrial fibrillation, resulting in several ablation surgeries to his heart and requiring him to reduce his workload at Pinnacle. True to form, he quickly got a bonus job at Enterprise Car Rental, which he very much enjoyed.

Bill loved sports. As a child, he obsessed over baseball statistics. As an adult, he made many friends while playing early morning basketball where he showed off his left-handed jumper. In his later years, he could often be found in his recliner in front of a broadcast of a  baseball or basketball game, often questioning the refereeing but even more often dozing off for a few minutes.

Last year, Bill was diagnosed with 100% blockage of the main artery of his heart. Because his heart was weakened by the ablation surgeries, he was not a candidate for heart surgery. Sadly, he passed away on August 7, 2023, of cardiac arrest.

Bill lived a long life full of service to his family and many friends. He loved to chat and share factoids and stories with whomever he could. Social media opened up a whole new world of connection for him. He embodied the principles of kindness, hard work, and tireless devotion. He loved Helen and his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren as well as his extended family and many friends, and, in his last few years, took efforts to make sure they knew it. Bill was a friend to many and an example to all of us. He will be deeply missed.

For those who cannot attend but want to watch online, this link has been provided: https://zoom.us/j/91733221138

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.

Robert Roman Darien, 81, passed away on Friday, August 4th, 2023 in Mesa, Arizona.

Roman (what most people called him) was born to Arthur Bell Duffy and Viola Juanita Beville on July 1st, 1942 in Baltimore, Maryland. Roman was a great husband, father and grandfather who loved to be with his family and enjoy time with each of them. Roman had a passion for music and wrote many songs over his lifetime. He played in a lot of bands and brought the joy of music to serval people over the years.

Roman was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints where he served in various callings over the years. Roman loved to share his love for the church when had the chance and loved learning about it through study and prayer.

Our time with him will be greatly missed and we will cherish the many years we had with him, his music, and his passion for his family and religion.

He is survived by his wife Nancy, children Jonathan (Kara) and Nathaniel (Amy), and his grandchildren Alex, Camy, Ridge, Carly, Kanon, and Brynn. He had a great love for each one of us and took time when he could to make each grandchild feel special.

Funeral services will be Saturday, August 19th, 2023 at 10:30 AM, preceded by a viewing at 9:30 AM at 1852 North Stapley Dr. Mesa, AZ 85203

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.

Jeremy Aaron Carlson was born on October 5th, 1975 in Tucson, Arizona to Jack Carlson and Charlotte (Green) Carlson.

He lived his entire 47 years in the state of his birth, passing away on July 14, 2023 in Mesa, Arizona.

Jeremy is survived by his children: Lindsey, Lucas and Lexie.

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.

Kelly J. Miller, 55, of Mesa, AZ, formerly of Kokomo, passed away unexpectedly at his home Monday, August 7, 2023. He was born June 27, 1968, to Jack E. and Lois A. (Kling) Miller of Amboy. He was a 1987 Graduate of Maconaquah High School in Bunker Hill and a 1990 Graduate of Mid-America College of Funeral Service in Jeffersonville, Indiana.

Kelly had a passion for life and loved riding his Harley, driving his Jeep, mountain biking or just spending time outdoors. He was a very gifted and caring funeral director serving the families of Kokomo at Ellers Mortuary for several years. He later worked for Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home in Plymouth, Palmer Funeral Homes in South Bend and currently he was living a dream living in Mesa, Arizona serving families at Bunker Family Funerals and Cremation of Mesa. He was a member of the Indiana Funeral Directors Association and the National Funeral Directors Association. He was especially proud of his children and grandchildren.

Surviving family include his children, Kyle and wife Shelby Miller of Converse, IN; Brenna Miller of Indianapolis, IN; grandchildren, Emmalyn and Wyatt Miller of Converse, IN; his parents, Jack and Lois Miller of Amboy, IN; brother, Brian and wife Raenada Miller of Indianapolis, IN; nephews, Keigen and Sam Miller and niece Tatum Miller of Indianapolis, IN; and his little dog Maggie. He is preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents.

Visitation will be held Sunday, August 13th from 4 – 8 p.m. at Bible Baptist Church, 2635 S. Dixon Rd. Kokomo, IN 46902 with Funeral Services Monday, August 14th at 11:00 a.m. at the church with Pastor Jon Tice officiating. Burial will follow services in Park Lawn Cemetery in Amboy, Indiana. Memorial contributions may be given to the Carl Koontz Memorial Scholarship Fund at any Community First Bank of Indiana in Kelly’s memory. Murray Weaver Funeral Home in Galveston has been entrusted with arrangements. www.murrayweaverfuneralhome.com