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Artie Louise R Nielsen, age 89, a resident of Mesa, AZ returned home to her Heavenly Father on September 9, 2022, in Gilbert, AZ. Born July 27, 1933, in Roswell, New Mexico to Artie W. Hall and Winston Samuel Stanley. Her parents divorced when she was very young. Louise was 6 years old when Artie married Edwin O. Reidhead. From that day forward she was a ‘Reidhead’. After graduating from Snowflake High, she married and was sealed for all eternity in the Mesa Arizona Temple to her high school sweetheart Joseph H ‘Hal’ Adams on December 1, 1951. Louise remained faithful in her testimony throughout her life as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. A devoted wife and mother, and an example of excellence for all who knew her. After her all children were in school, she returned to finish her college education. While attending Arizona State University, she was the recipient of a Fulbright Scholarship. She completed her BS degree at Oxford University in Oxford, England, and student teaching in Sheffield, England. At an early age, she learned to play the Piano. She played everything from Ragtime jazz, Broadway tunes to Classical, and Hymns. Many years were given serving her church as a Pianist/Organist, Relief Society President, and Primary President.

After the death of Hal in 1975, eight years later, she was introduced to Delbert L. ‘Duffy’ Nielsen, who had been recently widowed. They found comfort and companionship with each other and were married in the Mesa Arizona Temple on October 21, 1983. Her love and devotion for Duffy and his family grew over the 31 years of marriage until his death in 2014. They served an 18-month mission from September 1988 to March 1990 at the Arizona Mesa Family History Center and a 24-month mission from March 2000 – March 2002 at the WSD Arizona Mesa Bishop’s Storehouse for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Together they traveled to China, Korea, Japan, Hawaii, the Caribbean Islands,Europe and explored the United States. Other hobbies included history and genealogy. He was a member of the Daughters of the Utah Pioneers. Collecting recipe books and clipping recipes that never seemed to make it out of the kitchen. Sewing was an art form, making most all the dresses she and her girls wore to school, church, proms, and weddings. teaching them along the way to do the same for their families.

Survived by her children: Carolyn Lorraine ‘Rainy’ Parton (George) of Litchfield Park, Van Adams (Darcy) of Eden, UT, Diane Pittman (Kevin) of Chandler, Carol Fain (Jim) of Mesa, Mark Adams (Debbie) of Kingman and Marcie Green (Dan) of Mesa. Stepchildren: Sandra Shaffer (Jim) of Kalispell, Montana, Jacque Long (Jerry) of Mesa, Del Nielsen (Irene) of Texas. Siblings: Darrell ‘Sonny’ Reidhead, and Cora Busch of Show Low, Terry Reidhead of Nutrioso, and Laurice S. Cox of Florida. Sisters-in-laws: Margaret Adams, Gaye Adams, Evelyn Johnson, Betty Haws, and Nelda Davis. A Legacy of 55 Grand Children, 116 great-grandchildren, 24 great great-grandchildren, and 4 great great great-grandchildren. Gram will be missed dearly. Preceding her in death are her parents: Edwin Oscar Reidhead, and Artie Wanda Hall Her spouses: Joseph Harold Adams and Delbert Lamar Nielsen. Siblings: Carolyn Sue Reidhead, Karren Jenette Reidhead, and Maurice Stanley.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Hospice of the Valley and the staff at Beehive home in Gilbert for their loving care and support. A special thank you to Marcie and Dan Green and their family for their commitment and devotion these last few years.

A viewing will be held on Friday, September 16, 2022, at the Bunker Mortuary Garden Chapel, 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ, 85201 from 6pm – 8pm. Internment will be on Saturday, September 17, 2022, at the Mountain View Cemetery, 7900 E. Main St., Mesa, AZ, 85207 at 9:30 am. Services to follow at 11:00 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Silvergate Park Ward, 2334 East Pueblo Avenue, Mesa, AZ, 85204.

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

Carol Ann Barratt Frost, 83, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2022 in Mesa, Arizona.

She was born to John Wesley and Eloise Coulam Barratt on December 28, 1938 in Elko, Nevada.

Carol was a dedicated wife, mother and friend. She lived a full, happy life and enjoyed spending time with family and friends, knitting, family history, church service and world travel. She especially loved Hawaii and traveled there yearly.

A highlight of her life was serving alongside her beloved husband and companion, Ronald N. Frost during two church missions to Germany.

Carol is survived by her five children, Paula Chipman (Jeff), Andrea Hatfield (Steve), Wayne Mortensen (Jill), Dana Bennion (Don), and Jessica Kenney (John).

She was preceded in death by her husband Ron and son-in-law John Snedigar.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, September 17, 2022 at  The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Meetinghouse, 1852 North Stapley Drive, Mesa, AZ. The visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m.

A short family service will be held prior to Carol’s burial at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, September 24, 2022 at the American Fork Cemetery, 600 North Center Street, American Fork, UT.

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.

Alma Walser Skousen passed away in the company of his family, in Mesa, Arizona on September 8, 2022, at the age of 96. Alma was born a US Citizen in Colonia Dublan, Chihuahua, Mexico. His parents, Angus and Gertrude Skousen, farmed in Mexico until they moved as a family to the United States when Alma was 15 years old. He lived a full and happy life. He had a love for aviation that began at a young age and continued throughout his life. He joined the Army Air Corp at the tender age of 17 and served five years until being honorably discharged in 1946 just before WWII ended. He joined the USAF, applied as an aviation cadet and was accepted into their training program in 1950. He completed flight school and became a jet-fighter pilot, serving missions in Korea and Vietnam. He completed 26 missions in Korea, over 100 in North Vietnam, and 33 more in South Vietnam. Alma survived a forced crash landing due to mechanical error over Lind, Washington. He was able to continue his flight career after recovering from a broken back and served in the USAF for 23 years. He retired as a Lt. Colonel serving his country over a span of 28 years. Alma married his first love Lorna, who was his wife of 57 years. During his career, they raised a large family of 9 children. Alma and Lorna ran a Stretch & Sew fabric store in Peoria, Arizona for 7 years. After Lorna passed, he married his second love Phyllis, his wife of 12 years. He loved all his family.  He taught his children to love one another and to love their mother, our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ (whom he considered his hero). As a father, his teachings of unconditional love were one of his greatest gifts.  Alma’s many descendants remember him as a loving father, grandfather, an ardent patriot, and a man of deep faith and love.  He is survived by his wife Phyllis, his children, 43 grandchildren, 69 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren. We love you Dad, God speed.

Viewing will be held on September 16, 2022, at 5:00 to 7:00 pm at The Church of Latter-Day Saints located at 2424 N Old Gilbert Road, Mesa Arizona.

Funeral will be held at the same location on September 17, 2022, at 11:00 am

Terry Wayne Neuroth passed away peacefully on August 10, 2022, at 83 years old. Terry was born in Winters, Texas in 1939 to Josephine and John. He was the second oldest of his siblings, Freda, Carlos, and Sue and grew up in Arizona after moving there with his family when he was 6 yrs old.

He was preceded in death by his Parents, siblings, and his wife of 33 years, Dorothea (Rutkowski). Terry had three daughters, Deborah, Teresa, Laura, two step-children, Thea and David, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He enjoyed reading and collecting books, 4-wheeling, camping, and his many pets.

We wish to extend our gratitude to the nurses and doctors at Honor Health Scottsdale Osborn Hospital for the kind and caring support they provided to Terry. A special thanks to Terry’s grandson, Ryan, for providing extra care these few last years.

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

Our beloved husband, father, and grandfather (Poppie), Ernest Robison Halliday, graduated from this mortal life on August 30, 2022. His full life began on May 21, 1932 in Pleasant Grove, Utah, as the youngest of 5 children born to Jennie Fage Halliday and Errol McKay Halliday who both passed when Ernest was a young boy. He was raised by the Bayless family. He has always loved Pleasant Grove, where he lived until he was 10 years old. His family then moved to Mesa, AZ where he spent the rest of his life, with the exception of a two year church mission to New England and college at BYU in Provo, UT.

He met his eternal love, Nellie Grace Sessions while attending BYU, and they were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple on June 4, 1957. They nurtured and raised a beautiful and loving family together.

Ernest worked as an insurance auditor and had a paper route as well throughout his career and later worked with his wife for Avon. He loved people and everyone he met loved him. He was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and had a deep testimony and love of the Book of Mormon and of Jesus Christ. He will be remembered for his cheery demeanor, his hilarious sarcasm, his generosity, his willingness to serve everyone around him.  He will be fondly remembered for his love of Christmas and all holidays.  He inspired the tradition of waking up at 4am to open presents on Christmas morning. He will be remembered for his amazing cooking skills, playing chinese checkers, singing out loud while doing household chores or any activity, pulling his grandchildren in the wagon around the block, sitting by his daughter at 5am when she practiced piano, watching classic musical movies, and showing his gratitude for everyone and everything he has. He will be dearly missed.

His greatest joys were his wife, their children, 18 grandchildren and one great-grand daughter.  He is survived by his son Bradford (Cynthia), son Spencer (Rani), daughter Jennifer (Eric Crandall), and son Michael (Amy Jo).  His legacy will live on in the hearts of his grandchildren David (Mary), Carissa, Erika (Brady), Tyler (Allyson and daughter Josie Bee), Emily (Landon), Kaitlyn (Corbin), Kyle, Madison (Joe), Amanda (Daniel), Emma (Alex), Rydge, Hannah, Anna, Megan, Jacob, Michael, Mary Ann, and Joseph.
Ernest will be laid to rest in the Bountiful City Cemetery, in Bountiful, Utah on Tuesday, September 6th, 2022.

Patsy Ann Pratt Baker passed away peacefully in her home on September 5, 2022 in Mesa, Arizona.  Patsy was born on August 16, 1954 to her parents Ira Wilford Pratt and Opal Elizabeth Bowcut “Libby” in Chandler, Arizona.

Patsy led a happy life filled with her family, friends and music. She enjoyed traveling, teaching and performing on the piano, spending time with family and friends and serving many of Heavenly Father’s children. Patsy was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

She is survived by her husband Randy William Baker; her four daughters Wendi, Paula, Karen and Emily; and 12 grandchildren.

Visitation will be held Friday, September 9, 2022 from 6:00- 8:00 pm and an hour prior to the service at 1050 S. Hobson Mesa, Arizona 85204. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, September 10, 2022 at 11:00 am at the previous listed location.

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.

Kimberlee Moore, 57, passed away on September 5th, 2022 surrounded by her loved ones. She was born to Darell and Darlene Hudson on December 16th, 1964 in Mesa, Arizona. Kimberlee was best known for her positive attitude and cheerful spirit, making her quick friends with everybody. She never knew a stranger.

In 1990, Kimberlee married her beloved husband Roger D. Moore and they were lucky to be married for 22 years, raising their three sons Wyatt S. Moore, Truman B. Moore, and Hudson W. Moore in both Prescott Valley and Gilbert Arizona. She attended all of their sports games as she was an avid sports lover. Kimberlee was preceded in death by her husband Roger. 

Dedicating 33 years of her life to America West/ American Airlines, she retired in 2020 and spent the past two years enjoying time with her family who she loves dearly.

Kimberlee’s light and legacy will continue through her family. Left to carry on her traditions are her parents, siblings Devore Hudson, Michael Hudson (Holly)  Andrea Allen (Shane) Barbara Witherite (Amy), and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. As well as, her three sons and their wives Valerie Moore (Hudson) and Averi Moore (Truman) and her three grandchildren who were her pride and joy, Hayzlee Moore (Wyatt), Jaxson Moore (Wyatt), and Finn Moore (Hudson).

She was known for being an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She will be missed by all.

The funeral service will be from 4:30-5:30 pm on Saturday, September 10th, 2022 at 1865 S Higley Road, Gilbert Arizona 85296. A viewing will be held from 3:00 to 4:30 pm before the service.

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.

Wallace Martin McCook, age 81, passed away August 30, 2022. He was born in Santa Ana, CA, on June 5, 1941, the second child of Hazel and R.L. McCook, Jr. A member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he remained faithful in his testimony throughout his life.

On April 18, 1963, Wally was married and sealed to Mary Lee Nelson in the Los Angeles California Temple. They made their home in Tempe, AZ and raised a family of six children. Wally’s focus was as husband and father. He and Mary reared their children in love, yet prioritized time spent together traveling, going for walks, swimming, and studying the gospel. Wally was an entertainer and loved to tell funny jokes, share good stories, and do magic tricks, always with a contagious smile on his face.

Wally was trained in the boiler business by his friends at Parker Boiler Company, also while working alongside his dad. Later, as President of McCook Boiler Company, he provided well for his family while working with his brothers and sons. His children learned the value of work, and when Wally retired after over 45 years in the industry, his son continued the legacy of the family business.

In retirement, Wally attentively cared for Mary until her passing in 2018. He later reconnected with a friend from high school, Diane Dana, who brought comfort and companionship. On October 17, 2020, they married in Tempe, and were sealed in the Tucson Arizona Temple on December 5, 2020. His devotion and love for Diane and her family blossomed.

Wally found such joy in sharing the gospel! He served a two-year mission in the British Isles, an eighteen-month Family History Mission with Mary in Salt Lake City, UT, and nine years as Secretary to the Arizona Tempe Mission Presidents. He also served as Bishop of the University 2^nd Ward on the campus of Arizona State University. Wally spent his life loving, sharing, and inviting others to Christ.

Wally was preceded in death by his wife, Mary; his parents; and his brothers, Mac and Ron. He is survived by his wife, Diane; his siblings: Dean, Bill, Becky, and Leno; his children: John (Heather) McCook, Kathy (Bill) Lloyd, Jim (Cindy) McCook, Laura (Evan) Allred, Jackie (Mark) Latta, Carrie (Jason) Bennett; 24 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren.

Friends and family are invited to a celebration of Wally’s life on September 16, 2022, at 7:00 pm at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2549 N 32^nd St, Mesa, AZ. Interment was held September 3, 2022, at the Mesa City Cemetery. The family wishes to thank Hospice of the Valley for their tender support and care.

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.

The service can be viewed at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pbjm4cTomOY

Frank DeCesare, age 89, passed peacefully from this earthly life on August 31, 2022, at his home in Mesa, Arizona surrounded by his family. Frank was born February 24, 1933, in the Bronx, NY to Frank Silvio Ronaldo DeCesare and Rose Schneider who immediately placed him in foster care where he bounced from home to home but was never adopted. These difficult circumstances shaped his life. In adulthood, he made sure that everyone he met felt included and loved.

In 1962 he married Klara Rowe in Las Vegas, Nevada. Frank was the father to five children, the first of which he adopted and raised as his own: Lisa Quintanar (Ringo), Lori Draper (Lance), Darin DeCesare (Caroline), Maria Bengtson who preceded him in death (Craig) and Kyle Wright (Darcy). In 1995 he married Diane Bradshaw in Mesa, Arizona and inherited four more children who he also loved as his own: Todd Bradshaw (Jennifer), Kristen Danielsen (Jeff), Laura Krummenacher (Brent) and Matt Bradshaw (Becky). He leaves behind his older brother David DeCesare (Joan), his half siblings Frank II DeCesare (deceased) (Rosemary), Ruth Champigny (Earl), Ellen Gashel (Michael deceased), Arthur Wright (Christine), Joseph Wright, thirty-seven grandchildren and nineteen great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews all of whom will miss him dearly.

Frank had a lengthy career as an advertising executive doing both print ads and television commercials for Vegas Village, Caterpillar, Ford, and a host of other car dealerships. In retirement he served for five years as the vehicle coordinator on a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

He had a heart of gold and was generous to a fault. He was the king of jokes with always one at the ready. He served others with his whole heart and loved deeply. His friendships spanned decades and included a variety of different ages, ethnicities, and religious beliefs. All those who knew him, loved him. His generosity, love, compassion, and kindness were unparalleled. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, neighbors, and fellow church members. We look forward to being reunited with him again someday.

Visitation: September 6th from 5:00-7:00 pm at Bunker Family Mortuary located at 33 N. Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ 85201.

Funeral Service: September 7th at 11:00 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints located at 2424 N. Old Gilbert Road, 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.

Those wishing to view the services online, may do so at the following live stream link:

http://youtube.com/channel/UCtGD4mQCSi2WMLxW7POi6QQ/live

Linda Robin Daniels Rowe, 64, passed away August 28, 2022, in Sumter, South Carolina, with her husband at her side. She was born February 22, 1958, in Mineola, Nassau, New York, to Stuart Russell Daniels and Helen Vesta Robinette.

Linda spent much of her growing up years in Knoxville, Tennessee; London, England; and Fairfield, Ohio. She graduated from Fairfield High School in 1976. The following school year, Linda attended Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, where she studied social work.

Linda met Thomas Brent Rowe, of Utah, through an online dating service. They were married August 31, 1991, in Fairfield, Ohio. Following their marriage, the couple resided in Salt Lake City, Utah. A few years later, they moved to Tooele, Utah. They moved to Greenville, South Carolina, in 1998, and have resided in Sumter, South Carolina, since 2003.

Linda earned an associate degree from Central Carolina Technical College. She earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from Morris College. Linda was pursuing a Master of Science in Management degree at Troy University and was two classes short of her goal when she developed heart disease. Linda was employed by Morris College, in Sumter, as an administrative assistant when she retired about five years ago.

Linda was musically talented. She played the piano, cello, and guitar. Linda also enjoyed singing in her high soprano voice. Growing up she particularly enjoyed folk music. As an adult, Linda enjoyed performing Contemporary Christian Music. Also, as an adult, Linda took organ lessons at Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where she was working at the time.

Linda was a devout Christian. In their Southern Baptist congregation, she and Tom taught youth Sunday School class together and Linda played the piano for worship services. Most recently, Tom and Linda attended the Wayne United Methodist Church (virtually).

Linda was a beautiful woman with a loving heart. She always had a smile on her face and never complained, even as she endured numerous health issues. Linda will lovingly be remembered by many family members for her genuine love and interest.

Linda is survived by her loving husband, Thomas Rowe, of South Carolina; her mother, Helen Jackson, of West Virginia; and half-brother, Ian Stuart (Klaudia) Daniels, of Poland. She is preceded in death by her father, Stuart Daniels; her stepfather, Rudolph Wetzel Jackson; and her stepmother, Hanna Daniels.

Memorial services will be held on Thursday, September 8th at 11:00 a.m. at Bunkers Garden Chapel in Mesa, AZ (33 N. Centennial Way). Interment will follow at the Mesa City Cemetery (1212 N. Center Street).

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.

Marlow Ray Krein, 79, of Mesa, Arizona went to sleep in Jesus August 23, 2022.  He was born May 24, 1943 in Jamestown North Dakota to Gottlieb Edward Krein and Sarah Jane (Schelske) Krein.

Marlow grew up in Jamestown and Napoleon; attended one semester at Sheyene River Academy in Harvey, North Dakota.  After graduation from Napoleon High School, he worked at the state hospitals in Jamestown, ND and Miles City, MT.  From there he moved to Seattle and worked for Boeing.  After the big lay off in 1969, he worked at Northwest Hospital- on the job training in Respiratory Therapy before he attended Seattle Central Community College and became a Respiratory Care Practitioner, June of 1974.  He worked at various hospitals in the Seattle area for 32 years, retiring in 2006.  After retiring and traveling the country for 1 ½ years, settled in Mesa, Arizona and volunteered in the Emergency Department at Banner Baywood Hospital where he leaves a long rich legacy of giving back.  He was very much loved by the ER staff.

He was baptized as a teenager and re-baptized May 30, 1998 in the Kirkland SDA Church in Kirkland, Washington.  He was a member of the Apache Junction SDA Church and served as a Deacon.  He loved the Lord and was looking forward to that great reunion day when he would see Jesus.

Marlow’s love of cars especially Corvettes lead him to racing and then to the Corvette Marque Club of Seattle, where he was a member for 41 years.  He loved the rich friendships along with tours, parades and show and shines.

Marlow was married three times before marrying the love of his life, Janice Irene Bredehoft DeAnn on September 25, 1993 in the backyard of their home in Kirkland, WA.  This made for a blended family, Marlow bringing three boys, Scott, Justin, and Jeffery and Janice bringing two boys, Evan and Michael.

Marlow is survived by his wife, Janice, two sons, Justin (Maureen Irland) Krein of Ellicott City, MD and Jeffery Krein of Missoula, MT, and Evan of Snohomish, WA, sister, Luanne Egan of Mesa, AZ and one niece, Crystal (Arnold) Coleman of Everett, WA, and five grandchildren.

Marlow is p receded in death by his father, mother, sister, Marlys Krein Arnold, son, Scott and step-son, Michael.

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.

Alicegean Sawyer, 92, of Mesa, AZ passed peacefully August 24, 2022. Alicegean, daughter of John Wallace and Elizabeth Lavern Millett Bond, died at the Emerald Groves Central assisted living center in Mesa, AZ.

She is survived by three sons LaMar (Delores Koza) Watkins, Robert (Mary Willis) Watkins, Keith (Leslie Stanton) Watkins, and five daughters Louise (Louis) Burnham, Coleen (David) Taylor, Betty (Chuck) Reed, Sherie (Everett) Mead, Karen (Roger) Hyles, and daughter-in-law Carol Graves Watkins. She is also survived by 39 grandchildren, 95 great-grandchildren, and 42 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Herbert Dodge, Frank LaMar Watkins, Norman Sawyer, and son Randolph (Randy) Herbert Watkins.

Alicegean was born and raised in Mesa Arizona by her beloved parents. She truly enjoyed interacting with her siblings Lentz, Naïve, and Orabeth. Two siblings, Lois and Wanda passed before Alicegean was born. She spent most of her childhood summers at the family cabin in Groom Creek, AZ. She graduated from Mesa Union High School in May 1948. She married Herbert

Dodge in the Mesa Arizona Temple on April 7, 1950. Together they had three children, Randy, Robert, and Sherie. The marriage later ended in divorce on June 10, 1960. She married Frank Watkins on July 5th, 1962 and was sealed in the Mesa Arizona Temple on December 1,1966. Frank brought to the marriage four children LaMar, Louise, Coleen, and Betty from his marriage to Mona Belle Fuller Watkins, who preceded him in death. Together Frank and Alicegean had two children, Keith Lamont and Karen Elizabeth Watkins. After Frank’s death she married Norman Sawyer on October 29, 1998.

As a senior in high school her first job was as a typist for Radio Station KARV. After high school, she attended Lamson’s Business College in Phoenix. This launched her career as a secretary in many capacities: Wright Manufacturing, Arizona State Legislature, Phoenix Title and Trust, Arizona State University, and the Mesa Public Schools.

Alicegean served in the Mesa Arizona temple as an ordinance worker for many years with husbands Frank and Norman. Throughout her life she served faithfully in many of the organizations of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Serving as pianist for most of the ward auxiliaries and as ward organist. She also served in the MIA, Relief Society, Cub Scouting, and as ward typist.

Alicegean was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ and had a love for her Savior Jesus Christ and her family. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. A viewing will be held at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 North Centennial Way, from 5 – 7 p.m. on Friday, September 9th. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. at the LDS Avalon Ward, 2549 N 32nd St, Mesa on Saturday, September 10th, with a viewing prior to the services from 9 – 9:45 a.m.

The family wishes to thank the staff at the Emerald Grove Central assisted living center and the staff of Noble Hospice for the love and care provided to mom.

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.

George Shan-Chang Hsieh, age 97, died peacefully in his sleep in Phoenix, AZ on July 2, 2022 after a brief illness. His daughter May Beth was at his bedside.

George was born on January 21, 1925 in the coastal town of Ningbo, China, but his family soon moved to the French section of Shanghai. He was the eldest of seven children of Xie Hong “John”, a businessman, and Ye Wei “Mary”, daughter of a Protestant minister. Young George was always on the go. He embraced everything from his father’s exotic imported foods to photography. He played tennis, basketball, swam, and even jockeyed racehorses, but he was probably best remembered for zipping around Shanghai on a motorcycle. The years were not all carefree; the Japanese invaded China and occupied Shanghai. The teenage George watched a Chinese pilot trying to evade a Japanese plane by dropping his payload; the bombs fell only blocks from his home. George could never forget the vivid image of corpses stacked on the curb.

George attended both high school and college at John’s University in Shanghai, a prestigious Christian Chinese-American university. Classes were taught in English, and graduates could transfer directly to graduate schools in the United States. George did this after graduating from St. John’s in 1948, seizing an opportunity extended by the Baptist church to study for a master’s degree in Political Science at Baylor University in Waco, TX. George’s beautiful fiancée Rose Wang from Shanghai also made this journey. They both attended Baylor and married in 1950. Given the recent Communist takeover in China, the young couple decided to remain in the United States.

Even as a full-time student, George worked at a restaurant at night. He worked his way up from busboy to full-time manager. With his convivial nature, George gravitated to jobs in the hospitality industry. In 1957, he launched into business with his own restaurant, “George’s Drive-In” on La Salle Avenue in Waco. For over a decade the drive-in was a favorite hang out for nearby Baylor University students and athletes. He also became a part owner of the Cathay House restaurant. When the new Interstate 35 diverted traffic away from La Salle, George turned the Drive-In over to his sister Lucy Henson, and became manager of the Woodland West Country Club and later the Red Lion dinner club. In 1970, he was recruited and became the manager of the first Hilton Inn in Waco.

In the meantime, George had become a father. He was proud of his three daughters, crediting his wife Rose for their accomplishments. Family vacations were often to Dallas for Chinese groceries and fashion shopping or to Galveston where the family would rent a room with a kitchenette to cook the freshest seafood around. George and Rose also traveled to Las Vegas, New Orleans, and Europe. Back home, George loved hosting large dinner parties, including many for the Taiwanese Flying Tiger pilots training at the nearby James Connolly Air Force Base.

Life could be exciting and unpredictable in the Hsieh family. For a period, there would be a new car every two years. The Hsiehs were the first family on Hermanson Drive to get a color television, drawing neighbors who gathered to watch the NBC peacock spread its colorful feathers. George liked nothing better than to laugh, joke and tease, eat well, tell a good story, talk sports, and buy you a drink.

George’s early interest in photography evolved from having his own darkroom to delighting in the instant gratification of the Polaroid camera. The family’s annual Christmas photograph became expected by relatives and friends around the world. George took up golf which he continued to play for decades. He also obtained his private pilot’s license, the source of many adventures. Once, he flew the whole family to Temple, TX for an authentic Chinese meal. George, his wife, and three daughters – all dressed up in their 1960’s Sunday best – then hitch-hiked from the landing strip to the restaurant! Another time his plane ran out of gas, forcing an emergency landing in a farmer’s field. His ultimate piloting story was when he lost radio contact, requiring the entire Orlando International airport to briefly shut down to bring him in safely.

In 1972, George left Texas to begin a new chapter of his life. After a few years in Orlando, FL, George had again worked his way up from nothing to being a successful restaurateur, eventually opening several successful restaurants. George’s greatest legacy was reuniting his family of origin. In 1979 with George’s sponsorship, his father, John Xie, became the first person to immigrate from the People’s Republic of China into the State of Florida. George’s mother, and eventually three of his brothers and extended family members followed. With patriarch George’s support, they started successful businesses and built new lives here. Family gatherings in Orlando often involved three generations of the Hsieh/Xie clan sharing meals and mahjong. George also married two more times, divorcing after 14 and 13 years respectively, but he remained lifelong friends with his second wife Cleo of Orlando, FL.

“Three lives and three wives!” was how George liked to describe his time in China, Texas, and Florida. In reality, he had more like nine lives, as he survived multiple challenges, reinventions, and life-threatening health conditions over the decades.

George began a final chapter at age 85 when, separated from his third wife Liz, he moved from Florida to Phoenix, AZ to be near his eldest daughter May Beth. He blended in with her life and discovered the senior center and became a regular at the local casino’s blackjack table. George made new friends, but still kept in touch with old friends and family by phone. He made grand trips to Hong Kong, China, Macau, Las Vegas, and Orlando, but mostly he enjoyed being “comfortable” at home. After the Covid pandemic, George entertained himself by watching sports and old movies on television. He saw May Beth and her dogs every day, and did chair exercises with her daily until the day he died. This “fourth life” in Phoenix was simple and sweet. Asked the secret to his longevity, George would say, “I don’t worry about anything!”

In his younger days, George lived life large. He was a risk taker, could be generous to a fault, and didn’t sweat the small stuff. He readily admitted to making mistakes in life, but he had no regrets. “Easy come, easy go!” was his mantra. He never complained and never lost his signature laugh. In the end, George died exactly the way he wanted: peacefully and in his sleep.

George was preceded in death by his brother, John Hsieh of Houston, TX, and sister, Lucy Henson of Robinson, TX. His first wife, Rose Pu of Houston, TX passed away one month after his death.

He is survived by daughters May Beth Hsieh (Scott Williamson) of Phoenix, AZ, Dr. Georgia “G.G.” Hsieh (the late Dr. Mark Hausknecht) of Houston, TX and Marina “Rina” Hsieh (Henry Shaw) of San Ramon, CA; brothers Robert Xie of Orlando, FL, Joseph Xie of Atlanta, GA, Peter Xie of Los Angeles, CA, a sister in China, and their families; and grandsons Matthew Hausknecht (Man Liang) of Seattle, WA, Dr. Paul Hausknecht of Chinle, AZ (partner Dr. Erin Bowler), and Harrison Shaw of Santa Clara, CA.

The family thanks Dr. Philip Ku and his caring staff as well as the loving caregivers at Ahwatukee Comfort Care where George lived his final months. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.

The family encourages you to add your memories, photographs, and more in memory of George at this website: https://everloved.com/life-of/george-hsieh

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.

On May 5, 1935 (Note: The Cinco de Mayo connection is important here.) Robert Ray Gibbons was born in St. Johns, but he grew up as a 20-year-old missionary in Uruguay. There he began a life-long love affair with Hispanic language, people and culture. (See note above.) In 1958 he returned from South America and had the good sense and good fortune to marry Yvonne Mills, a close college friend from Show Low. Her love, support and teacher’s salary allowed Robert to receive a BA and MA from ASU and begin a 7-year joy ride as a Spanish teacher at Arcadia High School.

In 1966 he received an appointment as a Foreign Service Officer with the United States Information Agency. The next 30 years saw him, Yvonne and their five children (Michael, Bryn, Kevin, Christopher and Caryn) growing and benefiting from US Embassy assignments to five different Latin American countries plus out-of-area postings to Iraq, Nigeria and Pakistan. Retirement in 1994 was short-lived as he and Yvonne answered church missionary assignments to the Family History Centers in Mesa and Colombia followed by a call to serve in a new LDS temple in Mexico. In 2002, he locked up his dog-eared passport in his worn-out attaché case and served in the Mesa temple for twenty years before his death on March 19, 2020. A graveside service was held at the Show Low Cemetery on March 28, 2020.

Those wishing to view the services online, may do so at the following live stream link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NP8fYDOtwLc

The world became a little brighter on April 15, 1967, when Corwin Todd Edwards was born to Corwin and Shari Edwards in Mesa, Arizona. Not many knew at the time what an influential man he would become, but his parents knew immediately. Soon after Todd’s birth, the family moved to Salt Lake City, Utah, in 1968. The world became measurably brighter still when Brenda Lee Woods was born on October 30, 1969, to Ray and Jane Woods in Salt Lake City, just one mile from where Todd was going down slides and riding the swings at University Village. Not many knew at the time what a beloved woman Brenda would become, except for her incredible parents and older sister Vicki. Todd became a model big brother to Chris, Eric, Jennifer, and David.

Todd loved sports, especially baseball and basketball, in his early life, and later golf and running nine marathons – working toward the goal of qualifying for the Boston Marathon. Brenda loved her friends and crafting and became an accomplished photographer, particularly for her family and anyone’s babies. She joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 16 under the influence of her older sister Vicki and friends. Her parents later joined the Church due to the impact of their two daughters. Over the next few decades, Brenda and Todd developed into genuinely unique and notable individuals, all-time great humans, possessing the ability to impact many people in various positive ways. These two rising stars grew up very near each other in Salt Lake City; he graduated from Cottonwood High in 1985, and she graduated from Olympus High in 1987.

After high school, Todd was called to serve in the Chile Osorno Mission, where he worked dutifully, eventually serving as Assistant to the President. Meanwhile, Brenda enrolled at Brigham Young University to study. No force of nature could hold these two stars apart for long. Brenda transferred to the University of Utah, where Todd was already majoring in Finance, eventually earning an MBA. They met at an Institute of Religion function at the U of U, and then a mutual friend set them up on a first date to see the holiday lights get turned on at Temple Square. Brenda and Todd stated that they knew that night they had met the love of their life and were soon engaged and sealed together for all time and eternity in the Salt Lake Temple on July 19, 1990.

Astronomers know that when two stars collide, they form an even bigger and brighter star than either was before. This describes the union of Todd and Brenda perfectly. Other people noticed that these two were exceptional in every way: faith, intelligence, kindness, discipline, and service. Their beautiful first child Brooke was born in 1991, followed by the equally beautiful Alyssa in 1993. Their amazing son Corwin Seth came in 1997, and then they completed their glorious family unit with their beautiful daughter Camille in 2000. 

Over the years, the young family moved for Todd’s work with AT&T from Salt Lake City to Bothell, Washington, and back to Salt Lake City, then Allen, Texas, where their four children excelled in academics, dance, swimming, music, and the Tallenettes at Allen High. Brenda had the unique talent of making homes filled with love and a great sense of welcome for all. She was a fantastic cook and shared that talent with many neighbors and those in need. Brenda made holidays especially magical all year long with decorations and parties many will remember.

They were so proud when Brooke chose to serve in the Guatemala Quetzaltenango Mission. They were equally proud when Alyssa chose to serve near Brooke in the Nicaragua Managua Mission. Seth next served a mission in Brazil Sao Paulo, and who could be surprised when Camille decided she too would serve, being called to the Cincinnati, Ohio Mission.

Their daughter Alyssa married a fine man named Christian Leach from Peoria, Arizona, while studying together at BYU. Together, they gave Todd and Brenda two beautiful grandchildren, Jackson (almost 3) and Lucy (almost 1), in Mesa, AZ. Brenda and Todd moved to Mesa, Arizona, in 2019 to be closer to their family. Brooke had also relocated to Mesa, while Seth and Camille pursued university education in Utah.

Todd and Brenda believed their children were their most significant work, and if parents can be judged by the quality of their children – they must be considered amongst the most accomplished parents ever. Todd and Brenda also loved serving in the Church in various capacities; he served in several bishoprics, as Bishop in Allen, Texas; held several High Council callings, and most recently served as 2nd Counselor in the Mesa Eastmark Stake Presidency. He often described missionary work as his favorite church calling and served in the Gilbert Arizona Mission Presidency. They both believed that missionary work was a life-long calling they acted on at every chance. Brenda served in Nursery, Primary, Young Women’s, and Relief Society presidencies at different times, most recently in the Relief Society Presidency of her Inspirian Ward. Brenda and Todd showed excellence in teaching and service in every church assignment.

The family prioritized spending time together and have always been very close, traveling together often. They recently spent an entire week in a beach house in California before they and their children had to get back to work, family duties, church callings, and education. Most of the family returned to Arizona at the end of that memorable week together. However, Todd, Brenda, Brooke, and Camille chose to do a session in the San Diego Temple before returning home. Brooke decided to fly home directly afterward, to our eternal relief. Todd, Brenda, and Camille were in a terrible car accident while returning to their home in Mesa on Friday, August 19, 2022. Todd and Brenda were taken instantly and without suffering. Camille is currently fighting for her life with all the love and support of her siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and even strangers whom this great family’s circumstances have touched.

Brenda and Todd will live forever in the hearts and minds of the many fortunate people they have touched and through the good works of their children. How remarkable that Todd and Brenda’s first date was at a temple, and they spent their last day doing temple work with family. It would be hard to imagine a more prepared and faithful couple leaving this life.

Visitation
Innovation Park Building – Cultural Hall
Thursday Sept 1, 5pm-7pm
9431 E Point Twenty-Two Blvd
Mesa, AZ  85212

Funeral
Eastmark Stake Center
Friday Sept 2, 10am
10725 E Point Twenty-Two Blvd
Mesa, AZ  85212
Link to stream it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NP8fYDOtwLc

Interment
City of Mesa Cemetery
1212 N Center St, Mesa, AZ 85201

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