February 8, 1964 — October 20, 2020

Gary Douglas Thomas, 56 years old, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2020, in McKinney, Texas. He was born on Feb. 8, 1964, in Boston, Massachusetts to Earl and Louise Thomas.

Shortly after, they took residence in Las Vegas, Nevada where he was raised. He graduated from Rancho High School in 1982 and soon after began working at Sweetheart Cup. On Jan. 31, 1997, he married the love of his life, Jill (Huntsman) Thomas. Combined they have five children: Jacob, Joshua, Jordyn, Calais and Camille. They moved to Hurricane, Utah where they raised their children.

Gary is remembered by his family and friends as being thoughtful, honest, quick-witted, kind, and a very loving son, brother, husband, father and grandfather. Gary was very family-oriented, always attending his children’s and grandchildren’s recitals and sports events. His grandchildren were his biggest joys, and he loved them dearly. He made an active effort to be a part of his children’s and grandchildren’s lives, no matter the distance.

Gary’s friends have remembered his big heart, always having a joke, his willingness to help anyone in need, and the sparkle in his eyes.

From his longtime friend, Rob Michel, “Gary had a lot of great qualities about him, we could go on describing him with words like kind, loving, good sense of humor, generous and the list goes on. But I guess what stands out to me is the way he made me feel whenever I spent time with him. If things were good in my life, he would make them better. If I was having some challenges, at least for whatever time I could talk with him, everything was okay. I know it’s not just me that he’s had this effect on. I’ve been with him many times when he meets someone that he’s never seen before, and they become instant friends. His personality and positive energy are infectious. Several times I’ve seen him with a complete stranger, and he will ask the person questions about their family, friends, where they’re from, until he finds a connection. He will find a person in that stranger’s life that he knows, and now all the sudden these two strangers have something in common, and they are now friends. … The ability that he had to make people feel good about themselves and create friendships is a quality that is rarely found in people. So I guess if I had to describe him with one sentence it would be: HE MADE PEOPLE FEEL GOOD!”

He was a very talented woodworker. He made a variety of furniture and decor such as beds, dressers, a crib and a rocking horse for his kids and grandkids. He also helped his many brothers-in-law with their homes.

He was a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served as a scoutmaster, Sunday School and primary teacher, ward mission leader, Elder’s quorum presidency, and a young men’s leader. His love and testimony of his Savior, Jesus Christ, was one that was unwavering.

His work at Sweetheart Cup led him to work with INX International. This allowed Gary and Jill to live all over the country, including Northern Utah, New Jersey, and most recently, Texas.

Gary is survived by his wife of 24 years, Jill Thomas; his children: Jacob (Kyla) Thomas,

Joshua Thomas, Calais (Shay) Capson, Jordyn (Jacob) Connell, and Camille (Carson) Porter; six grandchildren: Jace and baby boy Thomas, Maddox and Sonny Connell, and Jensen and Jameson Porter. He is preceded in death by his father, Earl Thomas.

A visitation will be held Friday, Oct. 30, 2020, from 9-11 a.m. at the Metcalf Hurricane Valley Mortuary, 140 N. Main Street, Hurricane, Utah. Graveside services will follow at 11:30 a.m. at the Hurricane City Cemetery located at 225 E. 600 North.

The Thomas family would like to thank their family and friends that have sent their condolences and memories. Your kind words are a reflection of the great man they remember Gary to be.

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Metcalf Hurricane Valley Mortuary, 435-635-9922.  For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit our website www.metcalfmortuary.com.

August 5, 1926 — October 27, 2020

Our loving mother, grandmother and sister passed away in Parowan, Utah at her daughter’s home Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2020. At 94 years young, she has brought so much love and joy to us.

Aleen was born in Parowan, Utah on Aug. 5, 1926, the oldest child of Clifton P. Halterman and Arvilla Dalton. She attended both Parowan Elementary and Parowan High School from which she graduated. She married Keith Hope Bettridge Feb. 16, 1945. He passed away Feb. 26, 1947. She married Reed Laub Orton Oct. 4, 1947. They were sealed in the St. George Temple Feb. 24, 1962. Aleen worked at the County courthouse for many years in both the recorder’s office and in the clerk’s office, retiring in 1988.

She loved her Savior, she served in many callings Relief Society, Primary, and her favorite, Cub scouts. Reed and Aleen served a mission to the Cove Fort Historical Site in which they made many friends while serving.

Aleen loved the outdoors. Her many stories of riding horses, cows and even goats made us laugh. Reed and Aleen had a farm in Parowan Valley where they raised Polled Herford cows and bulls also some sheep. Riding to Paragonah to round up the cattle on the mountain was something she looked forward to each year. They were members of the Red Hill Wranglers. It was such a fun group. Mom loved barrel racing on her favorite horse, Bonnie. Her home was filled with trophies she had won with Bonnie.

Her family was everything to her, always supporting the many activities of her children and grandchildren. Sister trips with her two sisters created a special bond between them. Mom was a Jazz Fan! She called them by their first name and felt like they were her friends often donning a Jazz t-shirt on game days with a Jazz wreath on the front door.

As her health declined the past two years she spent most of her time in South Jordan with her son and family. Special trips to Parowan often included outings to the Gap, Brian Head, and Cedar Breaks. Each came with a story of sheep herding and horse riding. We will miss those.

Aleen was preceded in death by her parents, husband Keith, her eternal companion Reed, in-laws Clark and Minnie Laub Orton, her brothers Dee and Merrell, sister Merna, and great-granddaughter Hayven.

She is survived by daughter Marsha Rae (Craig) Rowley, sons Kelly Reed (Elizabeth), Tony H (Kristen), 22 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren with three more on the way, and two great-great-grandchildren and her sister Elna Stubbs.

Special thanks to Dr. P in South Jordan for her loving care and concern and IHC Hospice Haley, Rachael, and Craig for the care of mom.

Graveside services will be held Monday, Nov. 2, 2020, at noon in the Parowan City Cemetery. Internment Parowan City Cemetery.

Family and friends are invited to share tributes online at SerenityStG.com. Arrangements and memorial tree planting by Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah, 986-9100.

July 2, 1947 — October 24, 2020

Lawrence E. Bagby Jr. passed away on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2020, in St George Utah from complications related to  COVID-19.

Larry was born July 2, 1947, in Alhambra, California to Violet Gertrude Hall and Lawrence Elmet Bagby. He met Nancy Kay Moore when he was 13 years old and married her in the Los Angeles Temple on Nov. 26, 1969.

Larry was raised in Los Angeles California and served a “southern states” mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He graduated from UCLA with a bachelor’s in history. He served as a Captain in the Air Force and later became a Certified Financial Planner.

Larry was an intentional husband and father who loved his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren with all his heart. He was extremely diligent in his discipleship of Jesus Christ by being a great missionary, family history and temple work enthusiast and serving unceasingly.

He was loving, kind, a peacemaker and an amazing leader. He served as Bishop for five years, High Council for 10, and he was the Interfaith Public Affairs Director for eight years for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Thousand Oaks, California.

He had a talent for writing in his journal and Book of Remembrance and a gift for speaking and teaching. He was a friend to everyone and had a happy contagious personality full of zest for life!

He was an accomplished musician in accordion, piano and singing. You could find Larry singing and entertaining as often as he had the chance and especially loved singing and performing with his family.

He was an avid sports fan and athlete and loved watching and cheering for the Dodgers, Lakers and BYU Cougars! He and Nancy celebrated their 50th anniversary last year.

He is survived by his wife  Nancy Kay, children, Kristi (and Craig) Gardiner, Lawrence E. Bagby III, Kerri Bagby and Dustin Bagby.  He has 10 Grandchildren and 1 Great Grandson and is also survived by his brother Richard Bagby.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to his wife Nancy through https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-loving-larry-bagby-jr

Larry’s Celebration of life will be held on Oct 31 at 11 am in Washington Utah. Interment will be held at Tonaquint Cemetery.  Military honors provided by the Air Force.

You can join the celebration and stream the funeral live at home:2

Join Zoom Meeting

https://zoom.us/j/97723538984?pwd=OFd6S2oxelFSSXUxTE9RdFVGTk05QT09

Meeting ID: 977 2353 8984

Passcode: 455525
Family and friends are invited to share tributes online at www.SerenityStG.com.  Arrangements and memorial tree planting by Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah, 986-9100

February 26, 1982 — October 10, 2020

Ian Robert Rodriguez, 33 years old passed away on Oct. 10, 2020, in Saint George, Utah. He was born on Feb. 26, 1982, in Upland, California to Renee Rojas and Richard Rodriguez.

Ian attend UTI for automotive/ diesel technician. Ian had his own business.

Ian loved to restore old cars, play his guitar and ride his Harley. His most precious time was spent with his children. Children are Audrina Rose Rodriguez, James Dean Robert Rodriguez and Ares Rodriguez.

Siblings are Nicole Taylor, Michael Rodriguez, David Rodriguez, Alex Rodriguez, Harley Berry and Hailey Williams.

Parents are Renee and Gilbert Berry and Richard and Lisa Rodriguez.

Memorial Services will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020, at 10 a.m. at the Calvary Chapel in Saint George, Utah.

January 9, 1931 — October 20, 2020

Lawrence E. Laubscher, Sr. (“Larry”), passed away at his home on Oct. 20, 2020, at the age of 89.

He was born in Kansas City, Missouri on Jan. 9, 1931. Upon the death of his father in 1937, he moved with his mother, Elizabeth R. Laubscher, and his sister, Ellen Bortz Hocking, to Washington, D.C.  He graduated from Calvin Coolidge H.S., Washington, D.C., in 1948, and from George Washington University with degrees in Electrical Engineering (BEE 1952) and Law (JD 1955). While attending engineering school, he worked part-time as an Engineering Aide for Potomac Electric Power Company.

He also was a 3-year varsity letterman in tennis, and was a member of the Sigma Nu fraternity. Upon graduation during the Korean War, he married his high school sweetheart, June Oberndoerfer, and worked as a civilian Electrical Engineer on the U.S. Navy TALOS guided missile program. Larry attended law school at night, and eventually entered the field of Intellectual Property Law, which he greatly enjoyed to the end of his professional career.

Larry and June had three children, Larry, Jr. (1953), Nancy (1954; d. 1998) and Linda (1957).  Following June’s death from cancer in 1966, Larry married Mary Schminky in 1968, and in 1972, they had a son, Brian. In Silver Spring, Maryland, Larry was a Boy Scout Cubmaster and served as Vice President of the Church Council for St. Luke Lutheran Church. Upon moving to Arlington, Virginia in 1976, he was a Crystal City soccer coach and sang for many years in the choir of Westminster Presbyterian Church, where he was a Deacon and an Elder.

Professionally, he joined with his son, Larry, Jr., in founding the firm of Laubscher & Laubscher, which originated in Arlington, Virginia, and eventually moved to Annapolis, Maryland. Upon semi-retirement, he moved with Mary to St. George, Utah in 2010, became a member of the Utah State Bar, and continued his practice in a satellite office to the main Annapolis office managed by Larry, Jr. In Utah, he was a deacon at Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church and sang with the church choir and with the St. George Interfaith Choir. He greatly enjoyed the golf and social programs at Bloomington C.C.

Larry was a member of the American Bar Association, the America Intellectual Property Law Association, and the Utah, Virginia, and District of Columbia Bar Associations. He was a Past President of the Patent Lawyers Club of Washington, D.C.

Larry is survived by his wife of 52 years, Mary S. Laubscher, his children, Larry Laubscher, Jr. (Patty) of Annapolis, MD, Brian Laubscher (Renee) of Springfield, VA, Linda Gleave of Salt Lake City, Utah, son-in-law, John Griffin of Frisco, CO, 13 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Bloomington CC, 3174 S. Bloomington Dr. E, Saint George, Utah on April 24, 2021, at 2 p.m.  A Celebration of Life in the DC Metro area is being planned for a later date. In Lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Switchpoint CRC, 948 N. 1300 West, Saint George, Utah 84770.  For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit the website www.metcalfmortuary.com.

June 12, 1942 — October 27, 2020

Charles Clifford Phillips passed away on Oct. 27, 2020, following an eight-year battle with cancer surrounded by his wife and children in their St. George, Utah, home. Cliff was born a Sandtown boy on June 12, 1942, to Robert Owen Phillips and Lenora Sorenson in St. George. His father passed at an early age, leaving Lenora to raise four young boys, and Cliff, as the eldest, to shoulder many responsibilities. He continued to watch over his mother until her death and she lived with his family for nearly three decades.

Cliff attended Dixie High School and there met his forever road trip companion, Geraldine ‘Geri’ Ivie. He first tried to woo her during their junior year by passing a note in history class that was intercepted by the teacher and read aloud to the class. She still accepted his offer to “go for a drive” and that was the first journey in a life spent exploring the mountains and wilderness together.

He married Geri on June 8, 1962, and their marriage was solemnized in the Los Angeles Temple in March 1965. The newlyweds moved to California for schooling, but these plans were interrupted by the Vietnam War. Cliff enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving in the California National Guard and was activated in 1968 for two years. Later, Cliff resumed his studies and after 10 years away, the family returned to their roots in St. George. Cliff spent his career as a geological engineer for OMG Apex and also worked as an independent developer in home construction. Cliff and Geri raised their four children, Tyalee, Kari, Klay and Rob, in the home he built on Bluff Street.

Cliff was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who was happy to work but shied away from speaking and the spotlight. He served tirelessly as a financial clerk for 17 years and six years as the executive secretary. He also served in the Elder’s Quorum and many other callings including the St. George Temple Baptistry with his sweetheart. His testimony was most evident in the way he cherished and protected the women in his life and served as a father figure to many family members, neighbors or anyone who just needed a good butt-kicking.

Aside from Geri, Cliff’s loves were prospecting, mining, the outdoors and motorsports. He loved camping and traveling with his family, and a map or plan was never a necessity. He was more of a choose your own adventure traveler. He brought his first car at age 12 and loved racing and riding motorcycles with his boys throughout his life.

Cliff will be remembered like a prize geode. A little rough, tough and unassuming on the outside, but a special glow of light and goodness on the inside. His dry sense of humor, quick comebacks, and unique take on the world will be sorely missed.

Cliff was proceeded in death by his parents and brother, Doug. He is survived by his wife, Geri, and children Tyalee (Todd) Pendleton, Kari (Shayne) Wittwer, Klay (Beckie) and Rob (Rochelle). He is also survived by 18 grandchildren and brothers, Vern and Craig.

The family would like to express their thankfulness to Dixie Home Healthcare for the loving care that was provided, especially to Dr. Joseph Woolley, Shauna, and Juli.

A viewing will be held Oct. 31, 2020, from 10–11 a.m. at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff St., St. George, Utah. A graveside service will follow at Tonaquint Cemetery.

Arrangements are made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff St, St. George, Utah. Friends and family are invited to sign his online guestbook at www.spilsburymortuary.com

March 25, 1938 — October 19, 2020

Kathleen Ann Russu, 82, passed away on Oct. 19, 2020, at her home in St. George, Utah.

Born in Inglewood, California, on March 25, 1938, she was the daughter of Arthur and Canzada Russu. She graduated from Inglewood High School in 1956 and obtained a bachelor’s in art degree from California College of the Arts in 1985.

She married Billy Dewayne Nance on April 1, 1956, and they had three children together – Cindy, Robert and Amber. As a loving and devoted mother, hard worker and exceptionally talented artist, she began her career as a supervisor at Hughes Aircraft in Fullerton, California, before utilizing her artistic skills as a drafting engineer at Eisenhower Medical Center in Rancho Mirage, California. She semi-retired and relocated to St. George in 2013 and continued to work into her late 70s.

Kathleen was a highly esteemed artist whose creative dexterity won her many awards and accolades. Her skills ranged from watercolors to traditional and landscape art quilting. Her landscape art quilt of the Grand Canyon, “Grand 1,” was accepted into and competed at the Paducah Quilt Show in Paducah, Kentucky, in 2010. She was a longtime member of the Coachella Valley Quilt Guild in Rancho Mirage and the Dixie Quilt Guild in St. George, as well as a chair on the Watercolor Society of Oahu during the decade she lived in Hawaii.

She will be remembered as a faithful and loving mother, a kind and gentle grandmother, an admirable and compassionate sister, a doting and warmhearted aunt, and an honest and forgiving friend. The passion and love she poured into her life and her art will continue to define her. Her inspiring strength and independence, her loyalty to her family, her drive to live a fulfilling life, and her eye for the beautiful and unique will be greatly missed.

She is survived by her daughters, Cindy Nance and Amber Gillies, and her husband, David; daughter-in-law Jayne Nance; grandchildren: Amanda Jacobsen; David, Timothy, and Sarah Nance; Ryan, Daniel, Christopher, and Rachel Sentz; great-grandchildren: Erik, Elizabeth, Nevaeh, Daniel, Jacob, Joseph, Max, Shane, Syria-lin and Robert; as well as several nieces, nephews and friends. She is preceded in death by her father and mother, Arthur and Canzada Russu, brother David Russu, sister Linda Jacobsen and brother-in-law Don Jacobsen, and son Robert Nance.

Per her wishes, she will be interred with her mother and sister on Oct. 30, 2020, at Twentynine Palms Cemetery in California with graveside services at 11 a.m. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, memorial services will be delayed.

June 11, 1947 – Oct. 22, 2020

Victoria Lynn Jensen passed away from health complications during the early evening hours on Oct. 22, 2020, at her Santa Clara, Utah, home.  Her husband, Nicholas Dilworth Jensen was by Victoria’s side as she passed.  She was 73 years old.  Victoria will be sorely missed by many family members and friends who loved her, and whom she dearly loved.

She is survived by her husband, Nicholas Dilworth Jensen; her children, Scott Andrew Capser, Ron Allen Capser, Nicholas Isaac Jensen, Dana Andrew Jensen, Christopher Ryan Jensen, Nathan Elliott Valentine, Alisha Christine Green, and Candice Marie Blake; 17 grandchildren; brother, Gary Greenfield and sister, Gayle Agostinelli.

Victoria was preceded in death by her father, Cecil Clinton Greenfield, and her mother, Virginia Kathleen Brendel.

Victoria grew up on a ranch in Billings, Montana, the place of her birth.  She was a pure-blooded ranch girl who loved her horse, Pal, and the freedom which country life afforded her.  As she grew, she was expected to work and contribute to the duties of ranch life.  Victoria was a skilled heeler, developing the ability as she tended to the livestock.  Her husband, Nicholas, was always proud of his wife’s talent as a heeler.  Victoria was a tenacious woman, determined to make her way through life independently in the most confident, serving, productive, successful, and ladylike way possible.  While she believed a woman was as capable as any man of hard work and mental acumen, she was quite content with serving her good husband in every way which might lift and edify him.  Her focus was to complete, not to compete.

For many folks in her life, she was one of the best people any of them had ever known.  Victoria magnified every opportunity with which she was presented.  Together, Nicholas and Victoria served three separate missions spanning eleven years for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Addiction Recovery Program.  She took on overwhelming challenges with courage and a positive attitude, which seemed to shrink those challenges into manageable ordeals to be expected in life and handled as they come.  She would often suggest prayer as a prelude to tackling adversity.

She was an author with a tremendous ability to compose beautifully embellished landscapes and portraits with words.  She was also an artist, and literally painted beautiful landscapes and stunning portraits.  She was a businesswoman who multitasked with grace, kindness, and honesty, always.  She was a believer in Jesus Christ and a faithful saint all the days of her life, from the time she learned of Him, until her passing.  She was a remarkable mother and grandmother who took time to listen, play, laugh, and teach.  She was a devoted wife who served and supported her good husband in every way she could with all her heart, might, mind, and strength.  She was a loyal friend who showed and verbalized love for others in a genuine way, which warmed every receiving heart.  These qualities and characteristics demonstrated throughout her various roles in life, can’t be understated, and a comprehensive description would fill volumes.

Victoria was loved by so many wonderful people, all of whom are sad to see her go, yet many of whom know she is just at the beginning of eternal glory with her loving Father in Heaven and many loving ancestors who have also moved beyond the veil.  They know she is blessing the lives of spirits in Heaven as much or more than those she blessed here on earth.  She is no longer in pain.  She is free and at peace, as she always hoped to be.

The family would like to thank Alexis Watson with Dixie Hospice, Graham Bueler with Serenity Funeral Home of Southern UT, and the many friends and family members who contributed to Victoria’s care and comfort.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to her surviving family to cover medical expenses.

Family and friends are invited and encouraged to share condolences online at: www.SerenityStG.com

Funeral services will be held Saturday, Oct. 31 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints meetinghouse located at 1706 Desert Dawn Dr., Santa Clara, Utah. The viewing will be from 10-10:45 a.m. and the service will be from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.  Due to COVID-19 restrictions, we are forced to limit the attendance to the 11 a.m. funeral service to family.  All are welcome to join us for the viewing, while maintaining safe social distancing guidelines.

We will be streaming the funeral service through a Zoom Meeting accessible using the following details:

Topic: Victoria Jensen Funeral

Time: Oct 31, 2020 11:00 AM Mountain Time (US and Canada)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84315446502

Meeting ID: 843 1544 6502

February 14, 1929 — October 29, 2020

Neldon Jarvis Christensen, 91, passed away peacefully on Oct. 29, 2020, in St. George, Utah at the home of his daughter, Myrna Stout. He was born Feb. 14, 1929, to Ray and Melissa Christensen. 

He married Mary Carol Tryon on Aug. 17, 1956.  They were sealed in the Salt Lake City, Utah Temple. Mary passed away, on July 15, 2005. He married long-time family friend, Lenna June Robison Furse, in the St. George, Utah Temple on July 5, 2008.  She passed away on April 24, 2019.

Neldon graduated from Monticello High School in 1947. He worked as a computer programmer at Hill Air-Force Base in Layton, Utah. He took out an early retirement and moved his family to Hurricane in 1976. He was a member of the National Horseshoe Pitchers Association, where he received many trophies and awards. Neldon was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was faithful at church and temple attendance his entire life and held many church callings. He loved the outdoors and spent a lot of time camping and picnicking with his family and close friends:  Glen and June Furse, and Barbara and Keith Hammer.

Neldon is survived by his children: Barry (Ada) Christensen of Brigham City, Utah; Julie (Lynn) Runolfson, of Vernal, Utah; Myrna Stout and Evan (D’Launa) Christensen of St. George, Utah; Sharyn (Darin) Scholzen and Karyn (Terral) Wilson of Hurricane, Utah; as well as 25 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by siblings: Sam Christensen of Monticello, Utah, and Dennis (Kathy) Christensen of Holbrook, Arizona, Janis Shumway of Fredonia, Arizona and Marion Lovitt of Ness City, Kansas.

He was preceded in death by both spouses; siblings: Leon, Kent, Eldon, Eileen, Jay, Norma, Cleo, Judy; and son-in-law, Ronald Stout.

Graveside services will be held Friday, Nov. 6, 2020, at 11 a.m. at the Hurricane City Cemetery, 255 E. 600 North, Hurricane, Utah. If attending, kindly wear a mask and bring a chair if needed.

The family wishes to thank Southern Utah Home Health Care and Hospice for their kind and loving care.

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, 435-673-4221.  For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings, please visit our website www.metcalfmortuary.com.

September 1, 1924 — October 28, 2020

Joseph William Rondo returned home to his Heavenly Father on Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2020. He was 96 years old and part of “The Greatest Generation.”

Joseph was born in Mt. Clemens, Michigan on Sept. 1, 1924, to Herbert Edward Rondo and Mary Josephine LaForest and was one of eleven children. He had a great early youth which included working until age 16 in his father’s machine shop in Mt. Clemens, Michigan. He enjoyed hunting from an early age and was an excellent marksman. At age 18, he enlisted to proudly serve his country and spent three years, seven months in the US Navy during WWII with sea duty on two destroyers in the South Atlantic protecting transport ships from the German Wolf Pack U-Boats and doing electrical repairs at the New London submarine base.

Joseph was a convert to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served a mission in France after his graduation from BYU. He met his eternal companion, Mary Jane Clove in Ventura, California and they were sealed in the St. George, Utah Temple. They settled in West Covina, California and raised their family. He loved teaching elementary school for 25 years where he made a positive impact in his students’ lives. He and his wife served missions in France, Germany and Madagascar. He loved life dearly because of his love for the Savior Jesus Christ, his wonderful parents, wife and children.

He is survived by his children: Paula Jean Morey McElhinney and her husband John of Central, Utah, Burton Joseph Rondo and his wife Victoria of St George, Utah, and Allan Lynn Rondo and his wife Shannon of Encinitas, California; eight grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; siblings: John Rondo, Robert Rondo and Sally Rudich. He is preceded in death by his wife, Mary; parents; and eight siblings.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, Nov. 7, 2020, at 11 a.m. at the Metcalf Mortuary Chapel, 288 W. St. George Blvd., St. George, Utah.  A visitation will be held Saturday, prior to services, from 9-10:30 a.m. at the mortuary. Interment will be in Tonaquint Cemetery.

Live streaming webcast is available at www.metcalfmortuary.com by clicking on the obituary, then click on broadcast at the bottom. The webcast will remain on-line for 90 days.

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, (435) 673-4221. Please visit our website at www.metcalfmortuary.com for condolences, complete obituary and funeral listings.

December 13, 1940 — November 1, 2020

Our beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Franklyn Duke Knowles chose a beautiful day to return to Heaven on Nov. 1, 2020, in St. George, Utah. He was born on Dec. 13, 1940, in Salt Lake City, Utah to Eugene Arthur Knowles Sr., and Pearl Delores Duke.

He attended Onequa and Jackson elementary schools; Jackson Jr. High; West High, and the University of Utah. In 1960 he joined the Utah National Guard as a member of the newly organized Special Forces. He had the wonderful opportunity to serve a mission (1961-1963) in the South Africa Mission. In those days, the mission included the countries of South Africa, Northern Rhodesia, and Southern Rhodesia. He truly grew to love the people of these beautiful countries and returned many times.

In 1964, he married Sue Richins (later divorced) and had two wonderful children Jilynne (Travis) Hafen, and Shawn (Susanna) Knowles, both living in St. George, Utah. He felt blessed with six fantastic grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren, with one more coming in December. 

Dad began his sales and management career in the health spa business. The remaining 35 years were spent within the development and growth in the franchise industry working with Spudnuts, Taco Bell, Sea Galley, Snelling Personnel and Martinizing. 

Dad has six sisters: Donna Edmund, Maxine Littleford (deceased), Waneta Ensign, Carole Mitchell, LaRene (Terry) Lester, and Margie White, all living in the greater Salt Lake City area. He also has one brother: Eugene “Bud” A. Knowles, Jr. (DeAnn) in Bountiful, Utah. At age 69, while writing his history, Dad learned he had a brother, Deyon. Dad was heartbroken in never having had the opportunity to meet Deyon as he was “missing in action or buried at sea” and presumed dead in November 1943, after serving on the USS Preston. We are sure Dad and Deyon have now met and are sharing stories of their youth and celebrating their brotherhood.

Dad has always been active in the LDS Church. Upon returning from his first mission to South Africa in 1963 he served as assistant chaplain at the Utah State prison for five and a half years. He also served as High Priest Group Leader, Ward Clerk, Bishops Counselor, and three times as a member of stake High Councils. He also served as ordinance worker in the Portland, Oregon Temple. In 2013 he was called to serve in the Johannesburg, South Africa mission for a second time, where he had the opportunity to serve as a branch president. It was a tremendous opportunity where he met many more wonderful and cherished friends. 

Dad would want us to recognize and thank his doctor Heather Gilbert, MD, and all the chemo nurses and staff at the Intermountain Cancer Center, St. George, for their fantastic and professional service. Words cannot express his love and appreciation for their assistance and patience. Their friendship was greatly appreciated. We would also like to express our gratitude to Intermountain Hospice for their care and compassion.

Our family has truly been blessed. Dad repeatedly shared, “When I am gone, more than anything else, I will miss all my children and grandchildren.” Dad, we know you are watching over us now and we will see you soon. XOXO

Funeral services will be held Saturday, Nov. 7, 2020, at 11 a.m. at the Bloomington 7th Ward LDS Chapel, 3519 Manzanita Road, St. George, Utah. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:30-10:30 a.m., also at the chapel. Interment with military honors will follow the service at the Tonaquint Cemetery. The services will be live-streamed at www.Manzanita.SouthGateStake.com.  In lieu of flowers please donate to the Church Missionary Department.

Family and friends are invited to share condolences online at www.SerenityStG.com  Arrangements are under the direction of Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah, 435-986-9100.

1948 — November 1, 2020

Kriss did not want an obituary, although she was an avid obituary reader. I thought it was important to share her passing because she was a part of so many lives.

Kriss was a social worker and adoption specialist for the Utah Division of Social Services, Child Welfare. She and her partners were responsible for placing over 750 “hard to place” adoptions, including hildren with many disabilities, severe medical issues and older difficult teenagers. She loved her job, and I’m positive those adoptive families love her.

She passed away on Nov. 1, 2020, from complications surrounding five years of cancer. She never let the cancer rule and enjoyed her life in Santa Clara, Utah with many friends and family. She traveled the world and collected many treasures, some small and some large. Living and growing up in Salt Lake, Park City and Santa Clara served to broaden her friendships and experiences. She touched so many lives and tried to give so much to all of them.

I’m sure she will look over her two grandchildren, Skyler and Tristen; her husband, John; and all her pets. She was looking forward to seeing the ones that past before her at “Rainbow Bridge.”

Donations in her name may be made to the Best Friends Animal Society at Bestfriends.org.

A note on her dresser reads: “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”

I will miss you Kriss S.

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, (435) 673-4221. Please visit our website at www.metcalfmortuary.com for condolences, complete obituary and funeral listings.

October 14, 1924 – November 2, 2020

The headline in the Mobridge, South Dakota Tribune read “Fire Sweeps Room of Mobridge Club.” On Oct. 8, 1927, a prospective member of the “Rinkydinks” Club accidentally set fire to the clubhouse, which was attached to a garage. Since the clubhouse lacked electricity, the “Rinkydinks” used candles during their evening meetings. Young Jack Davidson, four years old, went into the clubhouse and attempted to light a candle but ended up setting fire to a bunch of papers. The concluding paragraph read “Neighbors, seeing the smoke and flames put in the fire alarm and the fire department soon had the fire out with little damage to the garage, but the clubhouse was a wreck.” 

This was the start of our dad’s life-long love of clubs, service organizations, and dare we say – meetings with friends. Luckily, no fire has ever been associated with his membership or leadership with Masonic Lodge, Elks Lodge, American Legion, Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Ancient Order of the Shrine, Kahal temple, and probably a multitude of other organizations he did not divulge to us. We were taught by example that one should give back, pay-it-forward, serve others and work hard. Perhaps the most poignant example of this was his service in the United States Army where as a medic, he fought in World War II. 

Born Oct. 14, 1924, in Mobridge, North Dakota to Doris Irene Davidson (Richards) and Charles (Chuck) Lorraine Davidson, our Dad loved his mom and admired his father. Grandma Davidson was the quintessential homemaker and lady, and Dad adored his mom. During the Depression, they lived in a railroad boxcar because Granddad was a railroad man. Dad would tell us that even in the boxcar, Grandma had flowers (weeds) in a vase, on a card table used for meals, covered with a tablecloth.

Dad liked a tidy home and frankly was a better homemaker than his wife, Audrey, whom he married Sept. 13, 1954. Dad had a son, Jack Lee from a previous marriage, and Mom had a daughter, Leslie Kay, also from a previous marriage. They combined to make a family, had another daughter in 1955 (Rachel) and a son, (Charles AKA Chuck or Woody) in 1963. Audrey had Alzheimer’s for 13 years, and Dad took care of her. Whenever we thanked him, the reply was “It’s my duty!” but truly, it was because he adored her.

As with all families, we had our struggles but can honestly say we never heard a disparaging word from our father, nor did he ever complain about how hard he had to work to support us. He wasn’t very handy – but we suspect that conveniently provided time for his myriad interests. He got his pilot license to fly small planes, earned a brown belt in karate (or maybe judo), got a bachelor’s degree in 1974 (at the age of 50!) and worked towards an M.B.A. when he was 55.

He took cooking classes, learned to golf, sang in a barbershop quartet (because he was short he had to stand on a box), sang in the Cedar City Chorale, was a voracious reader and loved to travel. The pinnacle of his travels was his trip to the Middle East with Mom. He was open to seeing, doing and loving new things. Dad, we will miss your sweetness but hope you’re dancing up a storm with Mom, swinging to the big band music you love. We love you. We honor you and will be eternally grateful for the lessons gently and lovingly given to us by you, our father. Your children, Jack Lee, Leslie, Rachel and Chuck.

A viewing will be held Friday, Nov. 6, 2020, 2 p.m. at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff St., St. George, Utah. A Military Honors will be held at 2:30 p.m. at Spilsbury Mortuary South Lawn area. 

Arrangements are made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff St., St. George, Utah. Friends and family are invited to sign his online guestbook at www.spilsburymortuary.com

November 1, 2020

Mildred “Mitzie” Mitchell, 75, passed into eternal rest on Sunday, Nov. 1, 2020, in St. George, Utah. Mitzie was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She married Gary Mitchell in Hyattsville, Maryland. They would have celebrated 50 years of marriage in March. Mitzie and Gary lived in Maryland for most of their lives before moving to Washington, Utah 10 years ago.

Mitzie enjoyed embroidery and sewing. She discovered a newfound love of quilting when she came to Utah. She enjoyed traveling with her husband and family.

Mitzie is survived by her spouse, Gary; two children: Stacy Mossman (Gary) and Shawn Mitchell (Angie); five grandchildren: Laura Barker, Chase Buckley, Gabriella Mitchell, Elise Mitchell and Jonah Mitchell; and two great-grandchildren: Brantley Turner and Jackson Turner.

A visitation will be held Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2020, from 6-8 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 W. St. George Blvd., St. George, Utah.

Graveside services will be held Thursday, Nov. 12, 2020, at 8 a.m. at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 1900 Veterans Memorial Drive, Boulder City, Nevada.

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, (435) 673-4221. Please visit our website at www.metcalfmortuary.com for condolences, complete obituary and funeral listings.

September 15, 1930 — October 20, 2020

Alice H. Welker, 90, passed away peacefully on Oct. 20, 2020, in Orem, Utah at Summerfield Manor. She was born to Lorenzo and Ella Hunsaker on Sept. 15, 1930, in Elwood Utah.

She married Garr William Welker on March 8, 1956, in Las Vegas, Nevada and were sealed for time and all eternity in the St George LDS Temple on March 5, 1988. Garr passed away on June 16, 2016.

Alice had a great love for her family and enjoyed growing up with her two brothers and three sisters in the small town of Elwood Utah. She graduated from Cokeville High School in Cokeville Wyoming.

Alice loved music and especially loved to sing and dance. Her father taught his children many fun songs that they enjoyed throughout their lives.

She met Garr at a dance while living in Ogden Utah. She moved to Las Vegas to live with her sister Blanche and Garr followed and they were soon married.

Alice and Garr loved to travel and had many fun trips including a trip to Hawaii for their 25th wedding anniversary and a trip back east to visit family and traveled from Florida to Canada where they toured Niagara Falls. Their last big trip was an LDS Church history bus tour.

They loved the gospel and served as church missionaries as member locators and later as ordinance workers at St George Temple. Alice was loved by everyone she met for her loving and cheerful disposition.

Alice is survived by her sister, Gwen (Raymond) Peterson; her children: Betty (Jess) Ware, Patti (Ed) Smalley, Suzy (Ron) Brown, Christina (Lyle) Hougen; stepsons: Garr William Welker Jr, Robert (Susan) Welker; 20 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

Funeral services will be Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, at 1 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 W. St George Blvd. A visitation will be held that day, prior to services, from noon to 12:45 a.m. Interment will be at the Tonaquint Cemetery. Live streaming webcast is available at www.metcalfmortuary.com by clicking on the obituary, then click on the broadcast at the bottom.

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, (435) 673-4221. Please visit our website at www.metcalfmortuary.com for condolences, complete obituary and funeral listings.

November 7, 1943 — November 3, 2020

Jack Gene Muterspaugh died Nov. 3, 2020, in St. George, Utah. He was born Nov. 7, 1943, in Linton, Indiana at the Greene County Hospital to parents Pearl Edna Gibson and Rex Newton Muterspaugh.

Jack grew up on a 20-acre farm in Bloomfield, Indiana with his mother. He became the man of the house at age 9. His two older sisters, Naomi and Sonia, helped care for him when he was younger.

Jack graduated from Bloomfield High School in 1961 at the age of 17 and immediately took off to see the world. He worked many odd jobs that ranged from farming, cattle ranching, driving grain trucks, machinist, deliveryman…

Jack joined the US Army in January 1964 and served as military police until Dec. 31, 1969. He married Carol Casper on March 5, 1965, in Heber City, Utah and was later sealed in the Salt Lake City Temple Jan. 13, 2009.

After leaving the military, Jack joined the automotive industry. He was an amazing mechanic, and this is where he found his true passion and his career began. Jack made many close friends and acquaintances over the years, none more influential than his friendship with Larry H. Miller. This friendship forged a strong bond both personally and professionally that lasted for over 50 years. Jack served the LHM Group for over 25 years and is respected by many.

Jack loved to ride in the deserts and mountains of Utah. Camping, boating or four-wheeling were the basis of all family activities throughout the years. Jack also enjoyed sharing these activities with his extended family. Building and working on cars was always at the center of his life and he built some amazing hotrods over the years. Jack and Carol loved to square dance and did so all over the country and even in Europe and Russia. Later in their lives, they traveled the country attending NASCAR and other motorsport events. Jack and Carol lived in Utah, Colorado, Missouri and Arizona.

He is survived by his three children: Wendy Johnston, Cindy Anderton (Glenn), and Jackie Jr Muterspaugh (Natalie); nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and his sister, Naomi Appleman.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, Nov. 7, 2020, at 2 p.m. at Metcalf Hurricane Valley Mortuary, 140 N. Main Street, Hurricane, Utah. Come celebrate the man who always lived life to the fullest. He had to go to the end of the trail.

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, (435) 673-4221. Please visit our website at www.metcalfmortuary.com for condolences, complete obituary and funeral listings.

November 5, 2020

On Nov. 5, 2020, after complications due to COVID-19, and years of fighting a battle with a nefarious criminal name Cancer — who has plagued our society for far too long. Jim became very sick with pneumonia on top of all his complications. Jim fought so hard to be able to return home to his family.  

Jim was a proud Marine and served 25 years in the military.  He said, “It nurtured me, and it gave me the most satisfying years of my life.” He served in many different places and experienced many different life cultures. Jim drove a truck for United Van lines for 20 years. Jim loved driving trucks since it took him all over the USA. After selling his truck and going to retire. 

He couldn’t hold still and went to work for Reid Ashman where he met friends and very fine people.

Jim loved his family and friends and you always knew where you stood with Jim. He loved having family and friends over, that was his excuse to go buy steaks at “Albertsons” and show off his barbecue skills on his smoker.

Jim loved to golf and wanted to retire and play Golf for his remaining days. “But that damn right shoulder” was only allowing him a score of 24; handicap.  

 Jim is survived by his loving wife Tanna Burbank, His children, Michelle and Jarrod (Jody). Brother Alan, sister in law Susie Burbank, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Stepchildren Maria and Margie

 He was proceeded in death by his mother and father Lyle and Edna Burbank, younger brother Dale and second wife Angie and stepson Ricky.

We love you Jimmy, and we want to thank you for being such a good, loving and caring stepfather to: Dawna Hillman, Darla Faux-Hillman and Brian Hillman. We miss and love you and until we meet again.  

 A memorial and military honors will be held Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2020, at 2 p.m. at the Pine View Mortuary 566 N. Mall Drive, St. George, Utah

*  Please wear masks and practice social distancing.  Thank you.

In lieu of flowers please donate to your favorite animal charity.

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Pine View Mortuary 435-986-4222. Please visit our website www.pineviewmortuary.com for full obituary and funeral service listing.

1934 — November 8, 2020

William R. Burch “Bill,” 86, of Beaver Dam, Arizona, died on Nov. 8, 2020, at his home surrounded in love by his family.

Bill was born in 1934 in Heber, Utah to Hilton L. Burch and LaVon McKnight who raised him in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He is survived by his wife, Susan Burch; brothers: Kent Burch and Richard (Connie) Burch; his children from his first wife, Janet Todd: Alan Burch (Maria), Ann Seymour, William Hilton Burch, and James R. Burch who preceded him in death; stepchildren: Justin Griffith (Mary Jane) and Nicole Martin; nine grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

As a young child, Bill was passionate about the outdoors. He loved to spend time at Ma and Pa’s place, and with his father and brothers fishing and hunting. He graduated from Wasatch High School and attended Utah State University. One of Bill’s proudest accomplishments was earning his Eagle Scout. As a father, Bill continued those traditions by taking his children pheasant hunting, fishing and teaching them all about the outdoors.

Bill served as a city policeman in Heber and went on to join the Utah Highway Patrol. He was stationed in Monticello, Beaver, and Cedar City, Utah. He completed his career working for the Utah Department of Transportation. After his retirement, he and Susan relocated to warmer weather in sunny Beaver Dam, Arizona. This move allowed him to be closer to and spend more time with his brothers. They had fun acting like kids again taking long ATV rides, target shooting, and reminiscing about childhood memories.

He was civic-minded and loved being a part of his community. He was elected to the Beaver Dam/Littlefield Fire Board and served as chairman for eight years. Even after his years as chairman, he still enjoyed spending time with Chief Hunt, Battalion Chief Ojeda, and the rest of the fire department personnel. He also taught community courses in first aid and defensive driving.

Bill’s love of the outdoors continued throughout his life. The mountains were his sanctuary where he could get away from the bustle of the city and surround himself by nature with its beautiful views and starlit nights. He enjoyed the summers that he spent at his cabin at Scofield West where he made many friends and taught his grandkids to fish, target shoot, ride four-wheelers and hunt. He and his fishing buddy, Jesse Christensen, won the Scofield fishing derby three years in a row. More important than the trophy was the opportunity for Bill to tell his tall tale stories about the “big one.”

Throughout his life, Bill was seldom without a dog by his side. He will be incredibly missed by his last dog, Willey, who as a puppy used to sleep in Bill’s Pendleton shirt pocket. Willey loved Bill to the end, watching over him and laying by his feet during his last moments.

Bill was a good and honorable man. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother and friend. He will be deeply missed.

The family would like to thank the Hospice team, especially Jennifer Nielsen, Gail Birch and John Gurley for their compassionate service. 

Bill will be buried in a private graveside ceremony in Heber, Utah.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in memory of Bill to the Mesa View Hospice, 330 Falcon Ridge Pkwy, #200B, Mesquite, Nevada 89027, 702-346-3088.

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, (435) 673-4221. Please visit our website at www.metcalfmortuary.com for condolences, complete obituary and funeral listings.

May 31, 1944 — November 8, 2020

Melvin Don Van Noy passed away from the indiscriminate COVID-19 on Nov. 8, 2020.

He was born May 31, 1944, in Logan, Utah, and grew up in Twin Falls, Idaho where he was very active in sports, playing football, and earning a state division title in wrestling. He graduated from Twin Falls High School in 1962.

Don served a mission in Paris, France for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He attended Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah where he met and fell in love with DeAnn Williams. They were married in the Salt Lake  Temple on D-day, June 6th, 1968. He then graduated from BYU with a BS in accounting in 1969.

After graduating from BYU, Don and DeAnn had six children Alisa (Dee) Millich, Michelle (John)  Walz, Christine (Craig) Smart, Aaron (Calene) Van Noy, Nathan (Effie) Van Noy and Joshua  (Laura) Van Noy, and lived in Illinois, Idaho, and California before moving to Logan, Utah. Don always loved learning and received his MBA at Utah State University in 1986.  

Upon completion of his MBA, Don accepted a position with Virginia Tech University on a  project in Bamako, Mali, Africa. He spent the next 35+ years in the International Development field and felt joy working overseas on projects that changed lives. He developed and implemented programs to help alleviate the suffering of others, many of which are still in place today. His family was able to join him on projects in Bamako, Mali, Yaoundé, Cameroon, and Cairo, Egypt where they developed some of his love for travel, adventure, and learning about and helping others.

Don was regarded as a man of great character and ethics. This was demonstrated by the trust others had in him with a high-level Egyptian official stating “If Don is good with the papers, I am too.” He worked with many organizations around the world including Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, USAID, University of Arizona, The Mitchell Group, Elizabeth Glazer Pediatric Aids Foundation, National Institute for Allergies and Infectious Diseases, the WHO in countries including Benin, Cameroon, Egypt, France, Haiti, Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, Uganda, South Africa, Zambia, Liberia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. His death is a loss to the whole international community.  

Don enjoyed mentoring others, collaborating on new projects, and attending conferences.  He was an adventure enthusiast; he learned to parasail, went scuba diving, white water rafting down the Nile, Safaris in Kenya, ziplining, hiking and sleeping under the stars in Zion National Park.

He loved God and served diligently as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served in many leadership capacities including Bishop, High Councilor, and served with his wife as Mission President of the Trinidad West Indies Mission from 2000- 2003, where they endeavored to help young missionaries as well as the people of the mission. The mission combined his love of international work and church service as it covered the area from St. Martin to the northern coast of South America included four languages, lots of travel and wonderful experiences.  

To his family, Don was a husband, brother, daddy, and grandpa, a teacher, a listening ear, an advisor, a tax man, a coach, a great sleeper, a baby whisperer, a cheerleader, willing to help with anything, a gentle, loving, and kind man that taught his family to love God and love others.  Sadness has filled our hearts at the cruel disease of COVID that took Don from us too early. He had worked very hard to stay healthy and had no health problems at all prior to contracting the disease. Both his parents lived well into their 90s and we expected the same for Don. The family will be forever grateful for the nurses, physicians, and staff at the hospital for their care and kindness in taking care of Don in his final days.  

He is preceded in death by his parents Melvin J. and Gwen D. Van Noy and a  granddaughter Emma Walz. 

Don is survived by his beautiful wife, DeAnn, their six children, their spouses, 20  grandchildren, and five brothers and sisters.  

Funeral services will be held Friday, Nov. 13, 2020, at 1 p.m. at the Metcalf  Mortuary Chapel in St. George Utah. Due to social distancing, only immediate family is invited to attend in person but others are invited to attend virtually by emailing don.vannoy.funeral@gmail.com to receive a link for the service. Please include your name and relationship (how you know Don) in the request so that we can compile a virtual guest book for the family. 

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, (435) 673-4221. Please visit our website at www.metcalfmortuary.com for condolences, complete obituary and funeral listings.

October 12, 1944 — November 8, 2020

Laddie Boyd Dockstader, age 76, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his family on Nov. 8, 2020. Boyd was born in Short Creek, Arizona to Theral Ray Dockstader and Leah Kilpack on Oct. 12, 1944. 

Shortly after Boyd’s birth, his family moved to the Salt Lake Valley, where he spent his early years of school and upbringing. However, after his sophomore year at Murray High School, Boyd moved back down to Short Creek. From here, he began his junior year of high school at the new Colorado City Academy, where he graduated in 1962. 

Boyd began his family at the age of 19 and built a home in Colorado City. He worked as a general contractor and developer. During his career, he traveled all over the western United States, where he grew his love of the Southwest and Native American culture. Boyd began working in Page, Arizona as a developer in the 70s until he retired in 2012. 

Working alongside brothers and friends, his work led him to build many homes and communities, including his home town in Centennial Park, Arizona. Boyd’s charismatic personality opened up many friendships. Everywhere he went, he created quality relationships and noble friends. His long list of comrades and companions were a testament to his constant humor and happy disposition. In every faction of life, he brought a smile and a bright perspective. Paralleled with his constant humor was his grounded faith and devotion to the gospel of Jesus Christ. His life goal was to please his father in heaven and raise a righteous loving family.

Boyd is survived by three wives, 22 children, 60 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. He leaves behind eight sisters, five brothers, many nieces and nephews, and numerous friends. Boyd is proceeded in death by his father, mother, his brother, David, and sisters, Yvonne and Sharon, along with three sons, Aaron, George, and Lennie, and one daughter, Diana. 

Due to untimely and unfortunate circumstances out of the family’s control, the services will be private and for close family members. Interment will take place Sunday, Nov. 15, 2020, at the Centennial Park Cemetery. 

Arrangements are made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff St., St. George, Utah, (435) 673-2454. 

Friends and family are invited to sign Boyd’s online guest book at www.spilsburymortuary.com.