Find An Obituary

Jim (James Joseph) Giroux, age 41, of Mesa, died on October 11, 2011 from ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease). He was born July 17, 1970 to Maurice L. and M. Jean (Forcier) Giroux in Manchester, New Hampshire. He attended Calvary Christian High School where he played varsity basketball. Jim went on to graduate from Lee University in Cleveland, Tennessee in 1992 with a B.A. in Psychology. Upon graduating from college, Jim worked as a Christian Youth Pastor in New Hampshire. After moving to Arizona in 1994, Jim worked throughout the valley as a Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor and administrator in the mental health industry. Jim is survived by his wife of eleven years Elizabeth (Lester) Giroux and sons James Adam and Shane Richard. He is also survived by his parents, his brothers Marc and Ken Giroux and sister Linda Provencal. A viewing will be held Friday October 14 from 6 – 8 PM at Bunker Family Funeral Home at 3529 East University Dr, Mesa, AZ 85213. Funeral services will be held at the same location on Saturday October 15 at 11 AM. His final resting place will be at Mountain View Memorial Gardens at 7900 East Main St, Mesa, AZ 85207.

Cooper, Michael, 47, of Queen Creek, left this earth on Oct. 6, 2011 after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Benson, Arizona, Mike grew up relishing history, patriotism and the outdoors. He spent his youth in San Manuel & graduated from Casa Grande Union High with honors & played varsity basketball. After serving a mission for the LDS church in Honduras, Mike graduated from BYU and Thunderbird with an MBA in International Management. An Administrative Manager for Univar for 20 years, Mike enjoyed many friendships at work as well as in his community in Glendale and Queen Creek where he raised his family. Mike touched many lives with his humility and kindness. He is preceded in death by his father, James Cooper and two brothers Darren and Sean Cooper. He is survived by his wife Rosie Cooper (Brown), his 5 children Alexis (20), Victoria (17), Christian (14), Nick (10) & Natalie (8), his mother Marilyn Cooper/Lunt, step-father Roger Lunt, sister Candy Galbraith (Manti), two nephews and a niece. His legacy was a love of family and devotion to God. He was a valiant man. A viewing will be held on Monday, Oct. 10th from 7-9 P.M. at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 North Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ. The funeral services will be on Tuesday, Oct. 11th at 11:00 A.M. at the LDS church on 19413 S. Sossaman, Queen Creek, AZ. He will be buried at Valley of the Sun Cemetery in Chandler. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made for Mike’s children college fund at Chase Bank account number 000002962711939.

Davies, Anna (Thomason), 41, of Mesa, AZ, passed away on September 29, 2011 surrounded by family after a decade-long battle against liposarcoma (terminal cancer). Anna earned a B.A. in Early Childhood Education from Brigham Young University, served a faithful mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Nauvoo, IL and taught pre-kindergarten in Texas. She and her family lived in Washington and Texas before settling in Mesa, AZ. Anna battled her cancer with an unquenchable positive attitude and fighting spirit, even when she lost her leg to it. She had a beautiful voice, infectious smile, fantastic sense of humor and deep testimony of her Savior, Jesus Christ. She served and touched the lives of countless people who deem her beautiful, kind, loving, brave, strong, hard-working and a true inspiration and example. Anna is survived by her husband, Rick, son Caleb (13), daughter Emma (10), mother Carolyn Thomason of Mesa, AZ, father Gerald Thomason of Kaysville, UT, her brothers and sisters, Jon Thomason of San Diego, CA, Deborah White of Spokane Valley, WA, Angela Nickerl of Carlsbad, CA, Rebecca Jensen of Spokane Valley, WA, Barry Thomason of Chewelah, WA, Spencer Thomason of Mesa, AZ, Sarah Knopp of Mesa, AZ, Brady Thomason of San Tan Valley, AZ, and Amanda Todd of Bossier City, LA, their spouses, and 61 nieces and nephews. Services are Saturday, October 8 at the LDS Chapel located at 6655 E. Preston Rd, Mesa, AZ 85215 as follows: public viewing at 10 am, funeral services at 11 am. An educational trust fund has been set up for Anna’s children, Caleb and Emma. Contributions can be mailed to Megan Thomason, 5278 Meadows Del Mar, San Diego, CA 92130. Alternatively, a donation can be made to the LDS Humanitarian Fund at www.ldsphilanthropies.org/humanitarian-services/. Anna, we love you and look forward to the day when we can join you for the eternities on the other side of the veil. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel.

Miles, Vercy V. Wilkins, beloved mother and grandmother, age 92, passed away Thursday, September 29, 2011. She was born June 26, 1919 in the farming community of Franklin, Arizona. She was an excellent student with a particular interest in speech, band, and dance. Vercy was widely recognized for giving humorous readings. She later worked as a librarian, post office clerk, and teacher. During World War II she moved to Los Angeles to work at a military supply depot. There she met Lynwood Miles whom she married in 1945. In 1950 they moved to Mesa where they raised four children. Together they were devoted to their family – the heart and center of their lives, creating a wonderful atmosphere in which their children could learn and grow. Vercy’s dedication to her family was demonstrated throughout her life as she worked diligently to care for, serve, and guide her children. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were precious blessings. Vercy celebrated special occasions by drawing the family close and providing memorable gatherings where all could enjoy delicious meals, a lovely atmosphere and family fun. She was very organized, a hard worker, frugal, modest, a wonderful cook and seamstress. Through her sacrifice and service she has given dearly to her family and will be eternally remembered for her love and devotion to her family and God. She is preceded in death by her loving husband Lynwood, son Brian, daughter-in-law Shaunna and grandson Curtis. She is survived by her children Lynn (Lynette), Linda (Dee) Burrell, and Robert, daughter-in-law Rae, 30 grandchildren, and 63 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be Monday, October 3, 2011 at 10 AM, at the Harris 2nd Ward Chapel, 1455 N Harris Dr., Mesa with visitation from 9:00-9:40 AM. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel.

Brent LeRoy Anderson, 62, of Mesa, AZ passed away Sept. 24, 2011. Brent was a devoted father and grandfather who lived his life with a smile, helping others. He is survived by his children Brandon (Cintia), Traci (Michael) Smith, Heather, Jaime (Logan) Jack, and 14 grandchildren. Visitation will be Fri., Sept. 30, 2011 from 6-8 PM at Bunker’s University Chapel, 3529 E. University Dr. in Mesa. Funeral services are Saturday Oct. 1, 2011 at 10 AM, preceded by a visitation at 9 AM at the LDS Meadows Ward, 2265 S. Hawes Rd., Mesa, 85208. Donations may be made to the Brent Anderson Memorial Fund, 4013 E. Des Moines St., Mesa, AZ 85205.

Carol Ann White, 62, passed away September 23, 2011 in Mesa, Arizona. Funeral services are Friday, September 30, 2011 at 9 AM at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa, Arizona 85201. Interment will follow at the City of Mesa Cemetery.

Went to the angels on September 15, 2011. MaryLou Figueroa Medina passed away peacefully in Scottsdale Az.

A Native of Mesa Az. MaryLou is survived by her husband of fifty -one yrs James Sezate Medina, Sons James F. Medina Jr., Ruben R. Medina and Stephen P. Medina Sr. also daughters Christina M. Martinez and Stefanie R. Medina. Besides her husband & kids MaryLou’s JOY’s in life were her 9 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, Roy, Marie, Mayra & many nephews and nieces. MaryLou was known for her beauty, laughter and hospitality. She was a strong woman of Faith, family and a friend throughout her 68yrs of life. Many Family & Friends prayed for her health and with the strength of the Lord he answered them and took her home. MaryLou fought the Good Fight she did her best. Now she is with Jesus in peaceful rest. The Medina Family sends a special Thank you message to the Support of The Arizona Kidney Foundation & Davita / Southwest Kidney staff at mountain vista. The courage and Strength of all Kidney Patients is commended. Please join us in celebrating her life Friday, September 30th at All Saints Catholic Church, 1534 N. Recker Road, Mesa, AZ, Mass 10:00a.m. Reception to follow until 2:00p.m .

Helaman Pratt Cardon, beloved by family, friends, and everyone who knew him passed away on Thursday, September 22, 2011 after 95 years of service. He was a supremely honorable man, with a wonderful sense of humor who delighted in children, in music, but most of all in his cherished wife of 71 years, Virginia Lucille.

Born on the banks of the Rillito River, one of nine children of Louis Paul and Mary Irene Cardon, Helaman went on to receive a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Arizona. He served the entire duration of WWII as a Tank Commander of the 3rd Armored Division, and retired as a Major having received The Bronze Star Medal, Silver Star Medal, Purple Heart, and European Theater Medal among other honors. After a successful career in the automotive industry and the ownership of a sheet metal business in Royal Oak, Michigan, Helaman served as an Elder, Bishop, and Temple Counselor in the LDS Church as well as missionary along with Virginia on the Duck Valley Indian Reservation. He was preceded in death by his parents and 5 brothers, Parley, Wilford, Stanley, Bartley, Orson and 1 sister Dora. He is survived by his wife, Virginia, his sisters Edna Trejo and Amy O’Dell, his daughter, Amy (Jerry) Nickles, his son, David (Pam) Cardon, his grandchildren, Heather (Matt) Bills, Heidi (Charles) Hillman, Melissa (Maggie) Nickles, Jeffrey Nickles and five great-grandchildren, Andrew, Sophia, Tyler, Ava, and Elin. Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 30 at the Grandview 1st Ward Building, 1455 N. Harris, Mesa; the viewing will begin at 10AM and services at 11 AM. Military rites will be held at the Mesa Cemetery immediately following the service. Flowers can be sent to Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa, or contributions to the LDS Humanitarian Fund.

Ruby Jewel Stewart, 87, passed away September 17, 2011 in Mesa, AZ. She was a loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend who enjoyed gospel singing, baking, gardening and shopping. She is survived by her children Glena, Janet (James), Venice, Dwaun (Trina), Peggy, 7 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son Peter. Visitation will be Friday, Sept. 30, 2011 from 6-8 PM at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa, 85201. Graveside services are Sat. Oct. 1, 2011 at 10:30 AM at the City of Mesa Cemetery.

Went to the angels on September 15, 2011. MaryLou Figueroa Medina passed away peacefully in Scottsdale Az.

A Native of Mesa Az. MaryLou is survived by her husband of fifty -one yrs James Sezate Medina, Sons James F. Medina Jr., Ruben R. Medina and Stephen P. Medina Sr. also daughters Christina M. Martinez and Stefanie R. Medina. Besides her husband & kids MaryLou’s JOY’s in life were her 9 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, Roy, Marie, Mayra & many nephews and nieces. MaryLou was known for her beauty, laughter and hospitality. She was a strong woman of Faith, family and a friend throughout her 68yrs of life. Many Family & Friends prayed for her health and with the strength of the Lord he answered them and took her home. MaryLou fought the Good Fight she did her best. Now she is with Jesus in peaceful rest. The Medina Family sends a special Thank you message to the Support of The Arizona Kidney Foundation & Davita / Southwest Kidney staff at mountain vista. The courage and Strength of all Kidney Patients is commended. Please join us in celebrating her life September 30 at All Saints Catholic Church 1534 N. Recker Road, Mesa, AZ. Mass at 10:00a.m.Reception immediately to follow until 2:00p.m.

Douglas Wayne Wheeler, M.D., 64, born March 18, 1947, the sixth of eight children to Beniah and Lovell Wheeler, died on September 18, 2011 in Mesa, AZ. Doug was Mesa High Student Body President in 1965 and served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Norway, where he grew to love the Norwegian heritage. Dr. Wheeler practiced as an OBG-YN in Nederland, TX for over 25 years. He was an avid reader and loved working with his hands, especially using wood and leather. He loved geology, all things nature and had a contagious zest for life. His generosity and adventurous spirit will be missed by all, including his wife Cathy and children Alicia Quirante (Fred), Amber Church (Chad), Aislynn Allen (Josh), Brandon Wheeler (Shanna), Bryan Wheeler (Denise), Amanda Westenskow (Todd), Nakona Wheeler, and stepdaughters Amy Smith (Nathan), Laura Carpenter (Jimmy) and 31 grandchildren. A viewing will be held at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 N. Centennial Way in Mesa, AZ on Wednesday Sept. 21 from 6-8 p.m. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday Sept. 22 at the LDS Kimball Stake Center, 1266 S. 32nd St. in Mesa, AZ with a viewing 1 hour prior. Memorial services in TX are to be determined.

Mark Douglas Kelly, 32, passed away September 18, 2011. He was born June 4, 1979 in Las Vegas, NV to Michael and Carla Kelly. He leaves behind his wife Elizabeth, children Bryce, Hyrum, Harley, Bryan, Mary, his parents, siblings Michael Jr., Julia, Joanie, and Mitchell, grandparents Odell and Roberta Loveland and Dietmar Arnold and many extended family members. Mark was a police officer for the City of Mesa, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping with his family. There is a public visitation Friday, Sept. 23, 2011 from 6-8 PM at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 N. Centennial Way. Funeral services are Saturday, Sept. 24 at 10 AM, preceded by a visitation at 9 AM at the LDS Red Mountain Institute, 7126 E. McKellips Rd. in Mesa. Donations may be made to the Mesa Police Association Officer’s Assistance Fund at www.mesampa.com.

Sharon Maxine Bevell, age 72, went home to be with The Lord on Thursday, September 15th at approximately 10:13am in Mesa, Arizona. Sharon was born in Norton, Kansas on May 20th, 1939. Some of those that preceded her in death were her mother, Olive Sue Hayes, her father, Rufus Conard, her granddaughter, Sara Swisher & her first husband, Charles Freymuth. She leaves behind a multitude of people that will miss her dearly, including her loving husband, William Bevell, five adoring daughters, Mary Cae Armistead, Ann Manchack, Francie Swisher, Paula Sherwood & Ginger Swarner are also left to miss her. Also, her adoring son, Jim Freymuth. As well as her vast extended family, including many grandchildren and in-laws.

Sharon’s life work included working in the Central Supply unit of several hospitals over a period of several years. She then entered barber school & ran a barber shop for many years with her adoring husband, William, into retirement. Her hobbies included reading, sewing, collecting hummels & knick-knacks, shopping, spending time with her kids and being an amazing wife & mother.

Service times for Sharon’s family & friends will take place on Tuesday, September 20th from 9:00am to 11:00am at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 North Centennial Way, Mesa, Arizona. Her burial will take place on Tuesday, September 20th at 12:00pm at National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona. 23029 North Cave Creek Road, Phoenix, Arizona.

May she rest in peace in the loving arms of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ for all of eternity.

Laverne Lyndon Burns, 45, passed away September 5, 2011 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Wake Services are Tuesday, September 13, 2011 at 6 PM at the Salt River Memorial Hall, 9849 E. Earll in Scottsdale. Graveside services are Wednesday, September 14, 2011 at 7 AM at the Salt River Cemetery, 10661 E. Palm Lane, also in Scottsdale.