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Steven Chance, 64, of Tempe, Arizona sadly passed from life in his home on Thursday, August 3 at the end of a grim and cruel, but courageous, 33-month struggle with gastroesophageal cancer. Steven was born on July 28, 1959 in Chicago and remained immensely fond of the city, its many elegant wonders, and its unique food culture throughout his life. He had an uncommonly turbulent and deprived childhood but nonetheless developed a vivid imagination, a fertile intelligence, a penetrating sense of humor, and a keen interest in learning; excelled in his studies at school; mastered Hebrew at an impressively tender age; read avidly in a remarkably wide range of ostensibly unrelated subjects; acquired an especially robust taste for accomplished literature (most notably for Tolkien’s celebrated The Lord of the Rings); and came to draw inventive images, to write engaging text and music, and to play the guitar with great skill and resolve. In his adult years, Steven also became fascinated with political affairs and with the intrigues of nature, with such as space exploration, dinosaurs, forests, and the character of light in particular. He also came to cook exceedingly well and to eat with infectious enthusiasm. Steven had most hoped for a professional life in music but landed instead, surprisingly and unhappily, in a world unsuited to him, in the corporate world. Throughout the early years of his vocational life, he worked as a salesman of various commodities in both the United States and Canada. He spent the last decades of his largely successful career somewhat more pleasingly, in transportation services, principally as a courier driver and as a driver of taxis, town cars, and medical-transport vehicles. Steven joyously spent the last thirteen years of his personal life with his beautiful and loyal partner, Nicki Osterhoudt, whom he admirably loved and defended with uncompromising rigor. His astute, generous, and charming personality also added much to the warm life of Nicki’s broader family, which had an enormous regard for Steven, sometimes affectionately referring to him as “Sir Steven of the Lakes.” You will be greatly missed, never forgotten, and always treasured, Sir Steven. Even Frodo Baggins would have been proud of you. Well done and farewell! Steven is survived by his significant other, Nicki; his daughter, Bethany; his grandson, Anthony; his granddaughter, Lana; his sister, Nanette; and his aunt, Sheila.

Ken was a son to “Nana”, Lori who affectionately called him “Kenny Bum.” He was a brother to Tim and Joanne, and he was father to Luke, whom he called “Little Coconut” when he was born. Ken Stanley, 59, suddenly died August 1, 2023, in Phoenix. 

Ken was born Nov 7, 1963, in Methuen, Mass, but grew up in Burlington, Vermont where his sister described him as a  “strong, proud neatnik. Everyone called him Adonis.”

Ken became like all Vermonters, a big Red Sox fan. 

He spent four years in the Air Force in the 80’s where he spent time in Adelaide, Australia. 

Ken moved to Phoenix in 1999 and was an electrical engineer. Described as intelligent and stubborn, he was a guy’s guy – a dude. 

His son Luke was born October 29, 2003 and his father put his home-spun touch on everything. He built a gazebo, a shed, a pool rock feature, and playhouse and sandbox for Luke, among other things.

He coached Luke’s Little League team and never missed a game at Perry High School unless he had to go out of town on business. 

He introduced Luke to his pride and joy, the Red Sox, and even took him to Fenway in 2004 where the two of them sang ‘Sweet Caroline’ and forgave Bill Buckner for his error in the 1986 World Series. 

Ken is predeceased by his father, Joseph Stanley who died in 1987. He leaves behind his son Luke, his mother Loretta Stanley, and his siblings Joanne Dion and Tim Stanley and girlfriend Kim Moir. 

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 dear mother, Geniel Lowe Blau was called home on Monday, July 31, 2023. Born on February 8, 1929, she was 94 years old. She was delighted to finally get to be with her dear husband Gerald Keith Blau once again as well as her son Steven, her parents and siblings. She was a wonderful wife, mother, and teacher, and impacted many lives for good.  She will be missed by her children Jeanene (Rod), Bonita (Daniel), Gary (Patty), Jeff (Chris), Duane (Emily), David (Valerie), Donalyn (James), her 33 grandchildren, and her 58 great grandchildren, and by their extended family and friends. Funeral services will be on Saturday August 5th. The viewing will begin at 11:00 am with Funeral services starting at 12:00 at the LDS church at 1266 S 32nd St, Mesa, AZ. It will be streamed at this link:

Geniel Lowe Blau, Memorial Service, August 5, 2023

Rilla Nelson Miller died on July 25, 2023, at her home in Mesa, AZ.  She had recently celebrated her 100^th birthday with cherished family and friends.  Her death came one day prior to the 20^th anniversary of her husband’s death.

Rilla was born on July 1, 1923, to Chloe Amelia Palmer Nelson and Hyrum Vance Nelson in the family home in Binghampton (near Tucson).  She was the sixth of eventually 13 children.  The family’s circumstances were modest, characterized by hand-me-downs, reliance on the family cow and garden, and the wits and tireless endeavors of loving parents.  Rilla was a devoted student and graduated from Tucson High School in 1941, followed by employment at Mountain States Telephone and Telegraph Co. and later by the Tucson Unified School District.  At the same time, a common religious affiliation (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints) resulted in a budding relationship with Harold Miller, an ROTC student at the University of Arizona.

Harold’s enlistment in the US Army Air Corps was followed by an assignment to pilot training.  Before departing, he proposed marriage to Rilla, and, in short order, they were married in their church’s Arizona Temple in Mesa on April 25, 1944.  They were living in Lawrenceville, IL, when Rilla’s first pregnancy was confirmed.  Harold, Jr. (Hal) was born in March, 1945.  Following the end of WWII, Lt. Miller was discharged, and the family moved to Mesa, where Sheryle and Vance were born.  In 1951, the Korean War brought Harold’s recall into what had become the US Air Force.  The family made their way to his new post in Anchorage, AK (which was Ronni’s birthplace) by car on the largely unpaved Alaska-Canada (Alcan) Highway.  This move was the first in a 25-year odyssey of subsequent moves to Texas, Massachusetts, Oklahoma, New Mexico (Terri was born in Albuquerque), California, and Florida.  They returned to Mesa when Harold’s military career ended.  He constructed their final residence there.

Rilla’s upbringing amid the demands of a large family, her career as a full-time homemaker, and her unwavering religious faith framed a life in which she resisted the spotlight, championed her husband and children, and, in thoughtful and generous ways, graced the lives of untold others, especially children.  Her ready smile and reassuring voice bespoke readily given love.  She pushed through trials as a cancer survivor and as Harold’s primary caregiver during his 20-year diminishment by Parkinson’s disease.  Along the way, she was an avid bowler, a devoted puzzler, a devout Diamondbacks and Suns viewer, and a steady influence for good as a neighbor.  Her children and their families knew her generosity directly on birthdays and other holidays.  For years until her death, she sang an alto rendition of “Happy Birthday” over the phone to her children and grandchildren alike, prompting moistened eyes and pulling particular heartstrings.

Predeceasing Rilla were her husband, her parents, and eight of her siblings.  Her children survive her, as do 25 grandchildren, 72 great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild. There will be a public reception in her honor on Friday, August 11, 6:00-8:00 p.m. in the Garden Chapel at Bunker Mortuary, 33 North Centennial Way, Mesa, and another on Saturday, August 12, 9:00-9:45 a.m. in the church meetinghouse at 1911 North 24^st Street, Mesa.  The funeral will begin at 10:00 a.m. in that same location, followed by a graveside gathering at the Mesa City Cemetery, 1212 North Center Street.

Services may be viewed using this link: https://zoom.us/j/97277506831

In her final decade, Rilla was homebound and primarily attended to by Sheryle Crisp and husband Randy, then, in her final years, by Terri Wilkins, Ronni Cooley and husband Chris, and granddaughter Shelly Wilkins Smith and husband Jaron.  Prominent in Rilla’s professional care in recent years were Jenny and Chris Davis and, most recently, hospice specialists Rebecca, Eileen, Lisa, and their occasional substitutes.  Each one has the enduring gratitude of Rilla’s posterity.

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.

It is with deepest sadness that the family of Ernest (Ernie) Royce McCullar announces his passing on July 27, 2023 in Tempe, AZ.  Born in Mesa on April 1st, 2006, Ernie spent all of his 17 years in Arizona.

He will be lovingly remembered by his father, Ernest Z. McCullar, his mother, Marsha West McCullar, and his siblings Eric, Leslie, Leah, Elisia, and Danielle.

A viewing will be held Friday, Aug 4, 2023, from 6-8p.m. at the Bunker Mortuary 3529 E. University Dr. Mesa.

On Saturday morning, Aug 5, the internment will take place at 10:00 a.m. at the Mesa Cemetary.  At 11:00 a.m., the same day, the memorial service will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints church building at 920 S. Lindsay Road, Mesa.

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 Allen Hansen Junior passed away at home with his loving wife by his side on July 28, 2023 in Dallas, Texas. He was born in Evanston, Illinois on March 14, 1967.

Rich was a beloved son, brother, uncle, husband, father, grandpa, and friend. He was a man of love, warmth, and laughter, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of those he touched.

Rich’s life was one of adventure and resilience as he lived and grew up in various places throughout the country due to his father’s airline career. He dedicated two years of his life to serve as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Merida, Mexico.

In his professional life, Rich’s love for flying culminated in becoming a commercial pilot most recently with American Airlines. Throughout his years with AA, Rich’s piloting expertise and leadership abilities flourished, earning him the esteemed position of Captain.

Rich was the life of the party, always bringing a sense of joy and fun wherever he went. He had an uncanny ability to make others feel welcome and comfortable, effortlessly bridging gaps and fostering connections among friends and family. His charisma and genuine interest in others endeared him to all, and he was admired for his ability to lift spirits and bring happiness to those around him.

Rich’s unwavering devotion to family was a defining aspect of his life. A true family man, he cherished every moment spent with his beloved wife, children, and, in his later years, his precious grandkids. In the eyes of his grandkids, he was their hero, their biggest fan, and their safe haven. Family events were never missed, as Rich consistently made a significant effort to be present and create cherished memories with his loved ones. His boundless love and affection will forever resonate in the hearts of all who had the privilege of being part of his life.

He is survived by his parents Richard and Nancy, the love of his life, Angela, 5 children Tara (Michael), Kyle (Taylor), Kolton, Tatum and Taylee, his 4 step children Elliot (Haley), Stella, Lucy (James), and Pearl, 5 grandchildren MJ, Max, Madelyn, Grace, and Nora, and 3 siblings Richelle (Jim), Renee (Greg) and Rodney (Shannon).

The visitation for Mr. Hansen will be Saturday August 5, 2023 beginning at 9:30 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 7752 E McDowell Road, Mesa, AZ 85207, followed by the service at 11:00 am. Burial will take place at the City of Mesa Cemetery, 1212 N Center St, Mesa, AZ 85201 at 1:00 pm.  The service for Rich will be available on Zoom – https://zoom.us/j/97800515134

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.

In loving memory of Judith Kayle Whiting Rundall who passed away on Wednesday, July 26th, 2023, in Mesa, Arizona.  Judy was preceded in death by her parents Fred Afton Whiting and Katie Della Calhoun Whiting.  She is survived by her husband Burnell Keith Rundall.  They were married 59 years.

Judy was born September 20, 1942, in Safford, Arizona.  The family only spent one year in that location and moved back to Phoenix where her father began a thirty-year career as an instrumental music teacher in the Phoenix School District.  This was, no doubt, the reason for her musical talent.  She had one older brother, Fred Whiting (Sandra), and two younger, Mike (Talma) and Larry (Connie).  The family moved a few years later to the 19^th Avenue and Thomas area and resided there for many years.

She met her future husband Burnell Rundall on a blind date in January 1963 and they were married one year later on January 25, 1964.  They moved a few times but ended up living for over forty years in Mesa, AZ.  Their family was blessed with four children, Eric (former spouse, Tammie), Brian (Julie), Christianne Norton (Doug) and Alicia Jones (Aaron), followed by fifteen grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Judy was determined to be a teacher and at a young age would stand in front of her seated neighborhood friends and conduct a class in something she thought was important, with a ruler and notebook in hand.  She did achieve her goal after attending Phoenix College for two years and then graduated Arizona State University with a BA degree in Elementary Education.  She held subsequent teaching positions in Fairbanks, Alaska during her husband’s tour of service in the U.S. Air Force. Followed by two years in Hawthorne, California during which she experienced a rare tornado that struck her classroom with a very minor injury to one of her students. Once her family began to grow, she took a break from teaching.  She eventually returned to the classroom for fourteen years before retiring in Mesa, Arizona.

A life-long member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, she served in numerous callings.  Beginning with President of the ward Relief Society, followed by Young Women’s and then Primary President.  One of her favorites was to serve as pianist for Primary.  She loved hearing the children sing.  But she often said that being called Nana by her grandchildren was at the top of the list.

She was a talented if not gifted musician and participated in anything having to do with music, when possible.  Her music teacher discovered that she had perfect pitch at a young age which helped throughout her life.  Her talents included piano accompaniment, participation in college orchestras as a violinist and organ accompaniment.  She had the privilege of playing the organ in the Mesa Temple for eighteen years, which brought her great joy.

After retiring Judy found great satisfaction quilting, scrapbooking, cooking, baking, watching the Arizona Diamondbacks, working puzzles and most of all spending time with her grandchildren.

Judy experienced numerous health issues over a long period of time.  Even with the many challenges, she battled them to the best of her ability, always striving to keep a positive attitude.  She will be deeply missed by family and friends.

More detailed service information:

Date:     Aug. 12, 2023

Time:    Visitation 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

              Funeral service 10:00 a.m.

              Graveside dedication  12:30 p.m.  Mesa City Cemetery

Location:  925 N. Harris  Dr.

                  Mesa Central Stake building

                  Mesa, AZ

Service will be on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/YqEh1Pz5f5c?feature=share

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.

It is with great sadness the family of Carla Cay Henderson Berglund share her passing early this week, July 24, 2023. It appears she simply went to sleep and woke up in a better place. Left to mourn are her son Trey Berglund (fiancé Delaney Johns), daughter Micayla, brothers Bill (Pam) and Doug (Sally) and her sister Ann. Along with nieces and nephews Jeri Massie, Gary Henderson, Shea Baird, Sage Hofer, and Cody Henderson. Great nieces and nephews Anthony Massie, Owen, and Libby Baird, and Ralstyn and baby Hofer.

Carla was born to Bill and Barbara Henderson December 22, 1966 in Scottsbluff, NE. Shortly after that she announced she wanted to be a teacher. Carla loved growing up on the family ranch in Sioux County. She attended elementary school in rural Box Butte County and high school in Alliance, NE. She graduated from the University of Nebraska in 1989 and began her teaching career. She taught one year in Ft. Worth, TX before moving to Arizona. She began teaching in Mesa in 1991. She was to begin her 32^nd year this week.

She collected many youth and professional awards, but her family has learned the greatest of those is a collection of friends. Without hesitation they have taken the challenge of comforting a family and doing the heavy lifting. Heavy on the family’s hearts are her 100s of students and their families—their challenge is to continue to make her proud!

Trey and Micayla are grateful for this outpouring and celebrations will be held later in Arizona and Nebraska. As time heals, her ashes will be spread at the family ranch in Sioux County Nebraska.

Suggested memorials include the Box Butte County 4-H, 415 Black Hills, Alliance NE 69301 or RMHS Theatre, 7301 E Brown Rd, Mesa AZ 85207, please add Account: 275-959 to memo.

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.

Life  Sketch

My mom has just given up her title as the oldest person in the Lakeside Ward.

Flora Gene Gillespie Lambson Merrill was born Dec 16th, 1931, in Ft. Defiance, AZ in an Indian Health Service Hospital. She was the last and only child of 8 children to be born in a hospital. She had lots of dark hair and an olive complexion. She loved to tell the story of how a nurse brought a Navajo baby in for my Grandma Gillespie to nurse. Grandma told them it was not her baby and about that time another nurse brought in my infant mom from the Navajo mother who had said my mother was not her baby either.

Flora always said she had a wonderful childhood where love was spoken and the gospel of Jesus Christ was lived and taught. She would often tell us when we were arguing that she never had a cross word with her brother Lincoln, who was just older than she was. We think it was because he was the angel. When there was contention in our home she would often burst into singing “Love at Home”. She always hummed.

At age twelve she had excruciating abdominal pain that was only relieved by priesthood blessings. After some time, it was discovered that she had a large tumor in her uterus that had to be removed and it meant that she would not be able to have children. However, she knew she would have children.

She loved the Lord and had a fervent testimony. She was quite the missionary. She converted four of her closest high school girlfriends to the gospel, they all remained life-long friends. She and her friend Betty married brothers.

She spent much of her youth in San Pedro, California in a ward she describes as heavenly. She was the Gold and Green queen, which was earned by attendance and participation at church functions.  The award was recognized at a stake ball. She was recognized in school and church for her beautiful voice.

Her family was originally from Ramah, New Mexico, and one summer after high school graduation in 1949, they returned and she took four of her girlfriends that she had converted to the gospel to visit this tiny LDS community out in the what they termed “the wild country”.  This would change the trajectory of all of their lives.

That summer, my mom who was gifted with a beautiful voice along with her dear friend Betty Campbell Lambson were offered a spot on a weekly radio opera show in Calf. but she figured she could always pursue an opera career, so she turned it down. She was having way too much fun in the summer in New Mexico. That’s where she met my dad, Gene, A. Lambson, (the most handsome cowboy she had ever seen, movie star chiseled bone structure and blond wavy hair!) She and my dad were married in the St. George temple on September 12th, 1950. They were married for 6 years before they were able to start adopting their 4 children Laurie, Shaune, Brett and Trace.

Her entire life was devoted to raising and loving these children and their families. Oh, how she loved her sons and daughters in laws.

Mom relished time with her children. She never wished her children would grow up faster, never wished the summer vacation would end. She loved our friends. She knew who was dating who and who had just had their heart broken. Our friends knew they could come in and get homemade whole wheat bread, butter, and food out of the fridge at any time.

Mom held many ward and stake callings in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, her favorite was Young Women Laurel leader and choir director.

Mom and dad started an Elderly Care Home in Mesa, AZ that they operated for 17 years with all the rules and regulations that come with Arizona State licensure.  They were a great team. Dad did most of the shopping and cooking and mom handled the clinical and administrative part. Many of the older women had a crush on my handsome dad and called him honey. Besides nutritious food mom fed all of her resident’s vitamins. She said she wanted them healthy every day they were on earth.

Mom and dad were preparing for a mission when my dad had a heart attack and got cancer. On their 50th wedding anniversary among friends, Dad uncharacteristically sang her a solo to her. Dad passed away in 2001, 3 years later mom married Paul Merrill, a family friend in Ramah, New Mexico. They showed us all how lovely a 2nd marriage can be. They had 5 wonderful years before his passing. She loved his children, Sonia, Judy and Scott and grandchildren.

Mom returned to Mesa in 2012. She was always up for adventure. Grandchildren remember her going down big resort water slides in her 80’s. She traveled all over the country with her son Brett and daughter in law Linoy and cared for Zoe and Emma while they worked. This was pure Joy.

Flora loved her nieces and nephews. And they loved her. Many of the nieces looked more like her than we did. I cannot tell you the number who have called and said Aunt Flora and Uncle Gene were my favorite Aunt and Uncle. I asked one nephew why. He said, “they lived good lives, gave unconditional love, always served, always treated me special and they got to know my children”. She tried never to miss a graduation, wedding or baby shower, Oh and she loved the reunions at funerals.

Later in life, she loved her dogs, sometimes we felt she loved them more than her children, she warmed their food up on the stove, always made sure it had fresh beef or chicken. If she had to leave the house, she would get eye to eye with them and explain why they couldn’t go and that she would be right back.

Flora passed on July 26^th, her beautiful, coloratura voice has now returned, and GiGi is singing with the heavenly choir. I know her message to us would be love one another. The phrase on the double headstone for she and my dad reads “no empty chairs”. She wants all of us to be there together.

Flora Lambson Merrill will be buried in the Ramah, New Mexico cemetery next to her husband and parents.

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.

Rexford Bird, known as Rick to his family and friends, is a beloved son, brother, uncle and friend. He will be remembered for so many things, but here are a few gems.

Rick loved taking family and friends boating. The fun experiences he created left a lasting impact on everyone lucky enough to join those memorable lake trips. He was also an enthusiastic supporter of Los Angeles sports teams, and his passion for Dodgers baseball was unmatched. He enjoyed bringing friends and family to games and faithfully watched and followed his teams.

Rick possessed a remarkable mental sharpness and had an amazing ability to recall numbers and details quickly. Whether it was memorizing stats about his favorite players and teams or remembering important phone numbers, Rick remembered it all.

As a bargain hunter, Rick loved the thrill of finding great deals and discounts. Whether it was finding the best deals on everyday items or planning big events, he had an ability to strategize and get things done in the most resourceful and effective way possible.

His love for his family was evident in the way he made everyone feel. Rick’s humor and genuine interest drew others to him and he was loved by all of us.

Rick was not only passionate about sports, friends, and connecting with his family, but he was also known for his generous nature. He had a big heart and was always willing to give his time and resources to help others. When it came to his friends and family, Rick was a dependable and supportive presence. His loved ones knew they could count on him whenever they needed someone to lean on. Rick created a strong foundation of trust in his relationships, leaving a lasting impact on the people who had the privilege of knowing him.

Rick, we have been lucky to know you. We love you. We will continue to carry with us the things we learned from you.

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.

Lee Wayne Peterson, 82, peacefully passed away on July 21, 2023, surrounded by family at his beloved cabin near Christopher Creek, Arizona. Lee was born on May 1, 1941 to Blanch Irene Williams and Wayne Leon Peterson in Los Angeles County. He married his sweetheart, Linda Kathleen Fullmer, on August 26, 1965 for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake City Temple.

Continuing his legacy are his children Debra Schneider (Bob), Shawn (Amy), Preston (Starlyn), Sterling (Shantele), Forrest (Jen), Heidi Roylance (Tye), Sheridan (Trisha), Autumn Prince (Dave), 37 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, with 2 on the way.

He was blessed to live an active life consisting of a coaching career (37 years with Mesa Public Schools, and several years with the City of Mesa Aquatics program), teaching, church service, hiking, fishing, woodworking, photography, painting, poetry, journaling, but most of all enjoying time with his family.

Lee is also survived by his sister Jeanine Larson, and brothers Don, Ron, and Scott.

Viewing service is Friday, July 28th from 6-8pm at Bunker Funeral Home located at 3529 E. University Drive, Mesa, AZ, and the Funeral service is on Saturday, July 29th at 10am, located at 10305 E. Southern Ave., Mesa, AZ

The service may also be viewed following this link : https://zoom.us/j/98943629756

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 our dear sister, Michelle Lee.  Michelle was born February 7, 1959, in Albuquerque, New Mexico to Mike and Shirlene Lee. She is the oldest of three daughters.  When she was three years old, her family moved back to Tempe, Arizona and has lived there ever since.  She loved growing up in Tempe where she could see the beautiful buttes, the Phoenix Valley traveling west on McDowell, and Scottsdale, Mesa, and Tempe traveling east on McDowell.  She felt we had the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets.   Michelle grew up loving to create things through different crafts, studying astronomy, and especially reading the scriptures and learning more about our Savior.

In 1983 – 1984 Michelle had the blessing of serving a mission to Viña Del Mar, Chile, for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  She loved serving the people in her mission, and made life-long friends, who were more like brothers and sisters to her.

About twenty some odd years ago, Michelle changed positions in the school system, from being a computer lab teacher to teaching Special Education.  This became her dream job, and she loved working with her students and her co-teacher.  It was time for her to move on 7 years ago when she decided to teach Special Ed in high school.   She was blessed to get a position at Chaparral High where she taught very special young men and young women, who are medically fragile, and those who needed special assistance. They taught her just as much as she taught them.  Michelle loved them with all her heart, and their families as well.  They became family to her.  She had a wonderful group of co-teachers, Paras, and Nurses whom she loved dearly and they became family to her too.

Michelle will be missed by many, especially her sisters Cindy and Kristine Lee.  However, we know she is with mom and dad, and many other loved ones.

Cone Darnell, aged 73, passed away on July 18, 2023 in San Tan Valley, Arizona.

Born on October 24, 1949, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, he was the son of the late James Robert Henry Darnell and Dorothy Isabel Health Darnell.

Cone pursued higher education at the University of New Mexico and later graduated from Brigham Young University with a Bachelor of Science in Judicial Administration. In September 1969, he demonstrated his bravery by enlisting to serve in the Vietnam conflict.

Cone married his beloved wife, Michelle La Pierre, on October 6, 1971, in Sturbridge, Massachusetts. They spent his remaining service years in Germany, traveling, and enjoying the diverse European cultures. Throughout their life’s journey together, they made homes in New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, Nevada, and California; where Cone ventured into careers as varied as logging, turquoise mining, high school teacher, probation officer, custom log home contractor, and group home manager.

Cone’s life was not solely defined by his work but also his passions; silver-smithing, writing poetry, listening to rock music, playing his guitar for family and friends, and sharing stories and jokes. His love for nature shone through in his fondness for the Jemez in New Mexico or White Mountains of Arizona. Cone was a basketball enthusiast his whole life.  Cone particularly enjoyed teaching the Gospel and always lived as an example of Jesus’ pure love.

Remembered for his non-judgmental and generous nature, Cone’s kindness and hard work left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Cone was a natural optimist, good-natured, and known for his calm demeanor, among many other virtues that made him a cherished friend, sibling, father, grandfather & spouse.

Cone is predeceased by his parents, Henry and Dorothy, son-in-law Breck Reeves, granddaughter Suzanne Michelle Reeves, brothers Charles, Calvin, and Carlton, and sister Linda Luders. He is survived by his wife, Michelle; daughters Melony (Scott) Opheim and Sarah Reeves of Mesa, AZ; Jesse (Stacy) Straub of San Tan Valley, AZ; and son Joseph (Perla) Darnell of Merida, Yucatan, Mexico.

Visitation will occur 1.5 hours prior to the funeral service. Services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, July 29th, in the LDS Chapel at 2175 Ocotillo Road, San Tan Valley. Bishop Olsen will be conducting. Burial will take place on July 31st in Eagar, AZ. Serving as pallbearers will be Joseph Darnell, Nathan Thurber, Stacy Straub, Scott Opheim, Colten Straub, and Remington Opheim.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Cone’s memory to the Juvenile American Diabetes Association at https://www.jdrf.org/.

The family wishes to express their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. May we forever carry Cone’s spirit in our hearts.

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 Ruth Elaine Small who passed away on Wednesday, July 19^th, 2023 in Sun Lakes Arizona.  She was 83 years old.

She was born on February 8^th, in Franklin, Arizona to her parents Jason C. Whittenburg and Eleanor Ruth (Cranford) Whittenburg.

Elaine married John L. King in 1956 and was blessed with 4 children. Scott, Debbie, Donna and Greg. Elaine and John were divorced in 1977.

Later she met and married Robert C. Small from Laveen, Arizona. Bob passed in March of 2020.

She was very talented and had many hobbies, horses, cooking, baking, quilting, wood crafting and making things with yarn and plastic canvas.

She loved sharing her baked goods and crafts with others. She was happiest spending time with her family and friends.

She appreciated all of the support from her family, friends, and neighbors.

Elaine had a strong Christian faith.  She attended church regularly and read her scriptures.

She was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, and friend. She leaves behind many wonderful memories and will be missed by everyone that knew her.

Elaine is survived by two of her four children: Donna (Jeff) Bohlman and Greg King; grandson Brandon King; two sisters and nieces and nephews.

Services will take place at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (800 W. Chandler Heights, Chandler, Arizona) on Thursday, July 27^th at 10:00 am.  Interment will follow at the City of Mesa Cemetery.

The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to St. Jude’s Hospital (www.stjude.org) in Elaine’s name.

Bunker Family Mortuary in Mesa handled the arrangement.

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.

Thomas More Kingkade, a man with an amazing legacy, passed away peacefully, at age 64, on Friday late afternoon, June 23rd, 2023 in Chandler, Arizona. Tom was surrounded by his beloved wife Vera Kingkade, their only son Oliver Kingkade, his sister-in-law Sandra Alex, and his friend and Oliver’s golf coach, Scott Longanecker.

In the words of his son, “A man with great courage, who did not fear any of the outcomes of life, and was always ten steps ahead in anything.”

The morning before his passing, Tom received at home a couple and their little son who were very close and dear to him, two members of Oliver’s golf team, who came to pray for him, as well as calls from his beloved family and friends.

Tom, the sixth of eight children, was born on November 8, 1958, to Donald and Marita Kingkade, in Oskaloosa, IA. At the young age of 8 years old, he was already an independent entrepreneur, running his paper route while going to school and being at top of his class. At age 16, Tom left home to pursue his own path. During this time, he received the Lord Jesus Christ in his heart, an event that would alter the course of his life forever.

After living in Kalona, IA for a brief season, Tom moved to Yakima, Washington, in 1978. There he obtained his bachelor’s degree in geology while working at a friend’s orchard. In 1981, Tom went to live in Santa Barbara, where he got a job at Raytheon Technologies, and finished his Masters of Science in Systems Management.

Another transition was moving to San Diego, where he worked for NASA and the U.S. Air Force, managed and toured the U.S. with Mindshift, his church’s worship band, and produced plays for which he composed original songs, involving many people from the church, young and old. This was Tom’s vocation and passion. As a volunteer, he was able to move many hearts through his art.

But San Diego was not yet his final destination. In 1999, Tom moved to Brasil to marry the love of his life, Vera. For 19 years, they resided in Rio de Janeiro with their son Oliver, and later his mother-in-law.

Several times Tom, as a software management consultant, would fly from Brazil for work to various parts of the world, and would often bring his family to some of these places. Having family around him was an essential condition for success.

However, in one of those trips for a job in New York, Tom was grateful that his wife did not accompany him. It was the morning of September 11, 2001, when he saw those airplanes hit the two towers, from the building adjacent to the South tower. That tragic day was remembered in detail during many of his conversations as he remembered his miraculous escape and how he helped many others exit the building and the area, before and while the towers collapsed.

As an avid learner, Tom mastered the Spanish and Portuguese languages, for his work demands in South and Latin America as well as his life in Brazil. In 2005, he received a Certificate of Appreciation for helping many companies solve difficult issues, which made him a most sought-after consultant.

As if all of the above were not enough, Tom decided to pursue his studies in theology and obtained his Maters of Divinity in 2015, with honors and marks of distinction.

Two words describe Tom: life and joy. He was full of life and always joyful. His constant anticipation of outcomes and brilliant intellect drove all of his pursuits. He loved having a good conversation and getting to know people. Tom was driven, and not bashful to speak the truth. In whatever subject he immersed himself, he would first learn the minimal details, so he would have that knowledge ahead of time!

For instance, instead of baseball or American football, Tom chose to teach Oliver to play golf, an unpopular sport in Brasil, and be his golf buddy. He found a very small golf course in Brazil, close to his house, and almost every Saturday, would take Oliver to play. As soon as his wife retired, Tom found an amazing job at Wells Fargo bank, and moved his family from Rio de Janeiro, Brasil to Gilbert, Arizona so Oliver could obtain his citizenship. Tom’s greatest joy continued to be in playing golf with his son, but now in a place where golf was not only popular but could become a professional career. Once again, ahead of his time, Tom created a golf legacy for his American-Brazilian family.

This move to America not only provided an opportunity for Oliver to obtain a better education and play golf, but it brought Tom closer to his family. His brothers and sisters were always in his heart, but now, no longer separated by an ocean, he had a chance to be closer than ever to his older brother Dan, his older sister Shelly, his middle brother Joe, his younger brother Jerry and his little sister Jane.

The Kingkade’s family DNA, coming from the Northwestern part of Europe, was enough to spark interest to talk about Ireland and Scotland, places he did not get to go, but held dear in his heart.

As a most sought-after consultant, Tom continued to provide innovative solutions at his last job at Wells Fargo. According to his friends and colleagues, he was very fun to work with, always supportive of them, creating a non-stress and enjoyable environment.

For most of his life, Tom was a foodie, loving gourmet food and good wine. Churrasco, fruits, and snacks were part of his daily life. He was a good husband and a good father. His canine companion T´Challa late in life was “daddy’s” good friend.

In terms of his spiritual life, Tom never abandoned the teachings of Christ since that encounter at age 16. He was always active in his church, contributing with his music gift during services, and developed the English Course and taught at Colabore, a Christian School in Brazil. He was a principled man of integrity always in search of the truth.

In his final years, he deeply contemplated his faith, made peace with God and men, and cemented further his beliefs in his savior Jesus Christ.

Tom is preceded in death by his father Donald, his mother Marita, his brother Tony and his sister Katie. He is survived by his wife Vera, his son Oliver, his brothers Dan, Joe, and Jerry, and sisters Shelly and Jane.

On October 7, 2023 at 10:30a, at Two Rivers Church, 326 E. Guadalupe Rd. Gilbert, AZ 85234, we will be hosting a memorial service for Thomas More Kingkade.

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.

Bonnie Wellman passed away peacefully on July 17, 2023 in Mesa, Arizona.

Bonnie was born to Robert and Lorraine Hinds in Oak Park, Il on July 4, 1951. She led a very happy, active life filled with family, friends, and faith. She was active in Stephen Ministry, Matthew 25 Prison Ministry, ushering at Mesa Arts and loved being a member of the Pi Phi alumni club for over 50 years. In 1974 she married her sweetheart Michael, they were married for 49 years, traveling the world, and raising 3 beautiful daughters.

She is survived by her husband Michael, children Jenna, Lori, and Beth and 6 grandchildren Zayda, Abi, Natalie, Emma, Vash and Olivia.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at 10:00am at Red Mountain United Methodist Church, 2936 N Power Rd. Mesa, AZ 85215. Flowers can be sent to the church any time after 9:00am on July 26, 2023.  Donations can be made to the FMD Association in Bonnie’s name.   https://www.fmdsa.org/donation-form/

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.