April 13, 1940 — November 9, 2020

On Nov. 9, 2020, Irene returned to the loving arms of her eternal companion. 

Irene was born April 13, 1940, in Tilsit, East Prussia to Walter and Ida Oltersdorf. When Irene was a young girl, her family moved to Germany.  And later as a 19-year old teenager, along with her parents and younger brother, moved to the United States and made their home in Salt Lake City, Utah.

She attended LDS Business College where she met the love of her life, Terry Hayes. And on Sept. 3, 1963, they were sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake City Temple. 

Irene was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She was very active in the Scouting Program, the Young Women’s Program, the Church Relief Society, and the Church Genealogy. She also worked for many years as a Temple worker in the Salt Lake and the St. George Temple. 

Irene loved to sing, and on Sundays, you would see her sitting at the front of the chapel with members of the church choir during Sacrament Meeting. From 1998 to 2000 she served an LDS Mission to the Quezon City Philippines Mission with Terry. She loved to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with the people of Quezon City. And continued to share the gospel, long after they were released from their Mission. And returned home to Salt Lake City, Utah.   

Irene worked for many years as a school lunch lady for various school districts in the Salt Lake area. She was loved and adored by the numerous children who walked through the cafeteria doors and will always be remembered as the best lunch lady.

Irene had a green thumb. And it showed by how beautiful her flowers looked, how green her grass was and how yummy and big her vegetables were. She also loved to crochet and bake. Irene had a huge heart and always had a smile for everyone she met.

She is survived by a brother, Chris and Janice Oltersdorf and four loving children, John and Trudy Hayes, Iris and Steve Anderson, Sharon Hayes, and Robert and Rebecca Hayes, 12 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.  

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, at 11 a.m. at the City View Memoriam Funeral Home, 1001 E. 11th Ave., Salt Lake City, Utah 84103. There will be a viewing one hour prior to the service. Interment will take place in the City View Memoriam.  

We also would like to extend a heartfelt Thank You to Sun Tree Home and Hospice. And to all the staff at Bella Terra of St. George, Utah for the excellent care and love they gave to our mother over the past two and a half years. 

September 11, 1942 — November 12, 2020

Jon Merlin Baker, 78, passed away Nov. 12, 2020. Merlin, as he was called, was born on Sept. 11, 1942, to Melba Webb and William Earl Baker. He was the eighth of 11 children.

He married Sharleen Ruth Neilson on Sept. 3, 1966, in the St. George Temple. Both he and his wife were blessed to live their entire lives in St. George where they also raised both of their children.

Merlin began plumbing in 1964, later starting his own business Baker Plumbing, which he maintained until his retirement. Merlin was also a member of the Utah National Guard from 1960 until 1980. However, his true passion was firefighting. Merlin joined the St. George Fire Department in 1973 from which he had yet to retire. In 1975, he began serving as the fire warden for Washington County and did so until 2002. Merlin was a decorated firefighter receiving the Governor’s Award for Outstanding Service in 1982 and the Utah State Fireman of the Year Award in 1992. In 1994, he became President of the Utah Fireman’s Association. In addition to this distinguished service, Merlin also taught Fire Science at Dixie College and was instrumental in bringing the first Jaws of Life tool to the St. George Fire Dept.

In his free time, Merlin enjoyed working with his hands. Notably restoring a ’56 Chevy Truck and a vintage fire truck among other vehicles. He also enjoyed woodworking, several pieces of his work, including a beautiful china cabinet, are displayed prominently in his home.

For Merlin, the deer hunt was a special time of year. Not so much for the hunt, but for the time he was able to spend camping with his brothers. He loved taking his grandchildren out to ride four-wheelers and shoot guns or for a ride on the fire truck.

Merlin is preceded in death by his brothers: Lloyd (Lavonna), Norman (Nadine) and Lynn Baker; as well as his sister, Sheila (David) Krogue. He is survived by his wife, Sharleen; children: Kent (Cami) Baker and Kim (Scott) Marchal; grandchildren: Mason, Aislinn, Alexis, Braelyn, Bronson and unofficially adopted grandchildren, Laci and Kaleah Marchal; brothers: Kenneth (Annie Laurie), Alma (Marcia), Darrell (Jackie) and Steven (Carol) Baker; sisters: Mary Anne (Boyd) Snow, Gai (Scott) Herbert; and sister-in-law, Mildred Baker.

Captain Merlin Baker will end his 47 years of service to the St. George Fire Department on Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2020. Last call for Merlin Baker will be at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 West St. George Blvd., St. George, Utah. Viewing will begin at 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. and a short service at 1 p.m., graveside ceremonies will follow at Tonaquint Cemetery, 1777 S. Dixie Drive, St. George, Utah. Masks are required for those attending the viewing and services.

The Baker family would like to thank all those who provided assistance to Merlin with such kindness, compassion, and dignity. We especially thank the St. George Fire Dept., Gold Cross Ambulance, as well as Dr. Jones, Dr. Willis, Dr. Mercado and Dr. Saifee, who worked so diligently to prolong his life over the past several months.

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 10, 2020

Daniel Edward Schmutz, age 92, passed away peacefully on Nov. 10, 2020. He was born the oldest of four children to Edward Mutrux Schmutz and Mary Waite Proctor, in St. George, Utah.

Dan loved growing up in St. George with his family and friends. He worked on the family farm just south of town, and attended elementary school, Woodward Junior High and graduated from Dixie High School at the top of his class.

After high school, Dan served in Japan with the occupation forces at the end of WWII. He married his high school sweetheart, Aileen Cannon, on Nov. 30, 1946, in Las Vegas, Nevada. They lived in Provo for about four years and then moved back to St. George. In 1950 they were sealed for time and eternity in the Manti Temple.

Dan was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He held positions in the bishopric, Sunday School, young men’s and etc. He also volunteered in the St. George Temple in the Baptistry, and at the Recommend Desk. Dan served in many civic venues as a board member, committee member and sometimes as president. He enjoyed being active in the community.

Dan had a successful career in the business world. He was involved with the planning and the beginning of several businesses. Some of those included: service stations, wholesale gasoline and oil distribution, farmer and cattle rancher, auto parts store owner and bank president. He enjoyed being involved in all business adventures.

Dan felt like his greatest accomplishment was his family. He had many who looked to him as a father/grandfather figure in their lives. He loved and accepted that role and felt honored to do so. Dan had a great love for people and was always generous with his hugs and kisses. He made everyone feel like they were his favorite, and they were. His kindness and love will be remembered by many.

One of his favorite activities was riding his horse “Whisky” out on the range rounding up the cattle with his blue heeler “Chaser.” They spent lots of time together and became the best of friends and they were quite a team.

Dan and Aileen enjoyed traveling together. They had many great adventures throughout the world and the United States. One of their favorite places to spend time was at their cabin in Pine Valley. Dan is survived by three of his children: Terri (Dennis) Bailey, Jeff (Holly) Schmutz and Kelly Schmutz; 15 grandchildren; 55 Great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Aileen Cannon Schmutz; his daughter, Melanie Schmutz Hatch (Steve Hatch); and daughter-in-law, Julie McArthur Schmutz (Jeff). Dan was also preceded in death by his brothers: Clark and Harold; and his sister, Mary.

Dad — We love and miss you!

Dan’s life will be celebrated at a graveside service, which will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2020, at 1 p.m. at the St. George City Cemetery, Due to the government restrictions, the graveside services will be attended by immediate family only.

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 10, 1932 — November 8, 2020

Dr. Jim Creed, DVM, of St. George, Utah died peacefully at his home, holding hands with his “Lover,” Jayne, on Sunday, Nov. 8, 2020. He was 87.

Jim was born on Dec. 10, 1932, to William Henry Creed and Frances Willard Judy Creed at their farm home in rural Atchison County, Missouri.  He graduated from Fairfax High School in 1950 and met the love of his life, Jayne Headley, at a high school basketball tournament that same year.  They were married on Aug. 16, 1953, at the Methodist Church in Oregon, Missouri.

Jim was in the Air Force ROTC for four years and graduated from the University of Missouri with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in 1954, planning to be a farmer. Shortly after graduating, Jim was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the Air Force, stationed at Lockbourne AFB, Ohio. While in the Air Force, Jim and Jayne welcomed two little girls, Joan and Joy. After two years in Ohio, they returned to Missouri to begin a life of farming.

It didn’t take long for Jim to realize full-time farm life wasn’t for him and he applied to veterinary school. He attended the University of Missouri and graduated as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 1961. While in vet school, they welcomed a third little girl to their family, Julie. He then began a long, successful career in veterinary academia as a faculty member and administrator. While at Colorado State University, the Creed’s welcomed a fourth little girl to their family, Janet. 

He completed his master’s degree in Veterinary Surgery from CSU in 1967 and his American College of Veterinary Surgeons board certification in 1974. Jim served as professor and chairman of the Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery at the University of Missouri. He also served as assistant dean for service and director of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at Oklahoma State University. Jim had a special love for teaching the many students he mentored. Following his retirement in 1999, Jim and Jayne returned to the home they loved in Columbia, Missouri, where they cared for three beautiful acres overlooking their pond. In 2013 they moved to St. George, Utah to be closer to family.

Of his many tremendous assets and talents, Jim had a special heart for service. As a member of the Optimist International organization for many years, he served as a club president, Lt. Governor and Governor of the Colorado-Wyoming District, and as President of Optimist International in 1979-80. He also served for many years on multiple veterinary association boards and as President of the Western Veterinary Conference.  

Jim was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and had a strong faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He and Jayne were sealed for time and all eternity in the Provo, Utah Temple on May 18, 1974.  Jim held many church callings over the years, including that of Bishop of a student ward at the age of 70 in Columbia, Missouri.  

His example of simple living, humility, hard work, optimism and service will live on for generations. He taught all of us valuable lessons – be grateful, be kind, be loving, serve others and obey God’s commandments. Of all his many accomplishments in life, Jim cherished most his wife and family.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, as well as his brother William Charles Creed and two granddaughters, Megan Elizabeth Harry and Laura Beth Beckstrand. He is survived by his wife, Jayne; daughters Joan (Ron) Harry, Joy (Dave) Beckstrand, Julie (Paul) Arslanian, and Janet (Van) Crawford, as well as 24 grandchildren, 53 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

The family would like to offer sincere thanks and appreciation to the many caregivers from Suntree Hospice & Senior Helpers of St George.   

Due to the pandemic and recent spike in coronavirus cases, we will be holding a small, private funeral on Friday, Nov. 20 at 1 p.m. We would love for you to join us via broadcast shown on the Pine View Mortuary website www.pineviewmortuary.com.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider donating in Jim’s memory to the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine online or by submitting checks to the University of Missouri in memory of Dr. James Creed, and mailed to 407 Reynolds Alumni Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65211.

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.

February 27, 1940 — October 24, 2020

Eugene Paul “Gene” Anderson passed away in his home on Oct. 24, 2020, in St. George, Utah, at the age of 80. He was born Feb. 27, 1940, in Litchfield, MN, to Andrew and Louella Tesch Anderson.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Louella Anderson; brother, Bob (Janice) Anderson; and sister, Carol (Ron) Servin.

After graduating from Litchfield High School, Gene enlisted in the U.S. Air force, where he met and married the love of his life in Casablanca, Morocco, Angela. After serving his country and honorably discharged from the US Air Force, he lived with his wife in California, before returning back to Litchfield.

Gene worked as a painter before he started his career at the US Post Office. He transferred in 1986 to St. George, Utah. He retired after 37 years of government service. Retired life was all about his grandkids, which he enjoyed every minute of. He also enjoyed hiking with the men’s group from church and reminiscing with his high school buddies.

Gene is survived by his wife, Angela Castelli Ponzio; daughter, Vanessa Michelle Anderson; son, Christopher (Tiffany) Anderson; grandkids: Abbie Michelle, Christopher Braden, and Andrew Michael Anderson; brothers: Jerry Anderson and Ron Anderson; and sisters: Joann (Paul) Foley and Beverly (Gary) Finken.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020, at 10 a.m. at the Calvary Chapel, 3922 Pioneer Road, St. George, Utah.

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 26, 1946 — November 10, 2020

Yolanda “Nani” Kaiaokamalie Snell of St. George Utah went to be with the Lord and her parents on Nov. 10 with her beloved husband Alan by her side, due to complications with dementia.

Born Yolanda Emmalani Kaiaokamalie, known as “Nani”, to her parents Edward Kalehua Kaiaokamalie and Eva Papa’ikaniau Scholtz on December 26, 1946 in Makawao, HI on her beloved island of Maui. She was the youngest of four siblings, raised in the small village of Ulapalakua, where her father was a rancher and mother a hardworking stay at home mom.

In her teenage years, her family moved to the Bay Area of California where she attended and graduated from San Lorenzo High School. Being born into an exceptionally talented family, she was a professional hula dancer for most of her life, performing alongside her siblings and fellow dancers in her father’s Polynesian entertainment group “Eddie and His Islanders.” They traveled all over the Bay Area and performed for many prestigious events, from simple family gatherings, to corporate events, to performing for celebrities. She later became a dancer for the Aloha Airlines Entertainment Team and had the opportunity to travel to such places as New York City and Bermuda. Hula dancing was her passion as she loved sharing her talents and teaching others hula dancing, having been raised with a deep love and pride for her native Hawaiian culture.

She married her husband Alan Snell of St. George May 20, 2011; they had their marriage solemnized in the St. George LDS Temple on April 25, 2017. She was a devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and loved practicing her faith, attending the temple and attending church activities regularly alongside her beloved husband.

She is preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband, Alan Snell, St George;  her sons Tyrone Hardman, Fremont, Calif., and Jonathan (Joy) Thomas, Mesquite, Nevada; her siblings, Maile (Boyd) Mossman, Edward (Nolini)  Kaiaokamalie Jr., Matthew Kaiaokamalie; and her two grandchildren Amelia Thomas (4) and Kahealani Thomas (8 months); her mother-in-law  Joan N. Snell (Jim, d), Brothers-in-law: Brian (Brenda), Kim (Susan), Keven (Diane) and sister-in-law Lori (Steve); along with six step children and 29 grandchildren.

The family would like to thank Dr. Karen Radley, Alliance Home Health and Hospice and Serenity Funeral Home of St. George.

There will be a viewing/visitation at Serenity Funeral Home on Monday at 9:30 a.m., followed by a graveside service and internment at Tonaquint cemetery at 11:00 a.m.

 Family and friends are invited to share tributes online at SerenityStG.com. Arrangements and memorial tree planting by Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah, 435-986-9100.

September 13, 1943 — October 29, 2020

Frederick John Heintz, age 78, passed away on Oct. 29, 2020, due to COVID-19. He was born on Sept. 13, 1943, in Somerville, New Jersey to John Rudolph and Florence Elizabeth Heintz.

Frederick graduated from Somerville High School in New Jersey and then joined the Army and specialized in the military police division because of his passion for training the deployment of war dogs in 1962 and finished his service in 1965. While stationed in Maryland, he met and married Janie Evelyn Carpenter and they had two children together: Leanne Faith and John Frederick Heintz. 

After finishing his army service, he joined the police academy where he then became an officer of the Hillsborough Police Department in Hillsborough New Jersey. He eventually became a sergeant and retired in 1984. Upon retirement, he moved to Port Charlotte, Florida where he owned and operated Friendly Ride Transportation Services and met his beloved wife for the past 24 years and soul mate Donna Mae Upshaw.

Frederick loved on people and his passions were the Elks, cards, traveling and spending time with his law enforcement and personal family. He will always be notoriously remembered when he was stationed in Hawaii and while traveling with his German Shepherd when Ethel Kennedy accidentally ran into him and knocked him off a cliff in his jeep. 

Frederick is survived by his beloved spouse Donna Mae Heintz of St George Utah; his daughter Leanne Schwarzmann (Mark) Waxhaw, North Carolina; John (Talya) Heintz of New South Wales Australia; brother Frank (Edna) Heintz Orangeville Pennsylvania; Elizabeth Cronce Englewood, Florida; Robert Heintz (Connie) Manville, New Jersey; many stepchildren, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. He loved unconditionally and with a full heart. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that everyone take COVID-19 seriously. Please wear a mask, wash your hands and wait 6 feet apart. Practice social distancing and the family’s wishes are to raise awareness of how serious this virus can be to those that cannot handle it. Frederick was a healthy man and would want everyone to take care of themselves until a cure is found.

His wishes were to be cremated and for the family to gather once it is safe for travel and a reunion and celebration to occur.  

Frederick asked his beloved wife Donna to make a promise to family and friends by asking everyone who knew and loved him to remember him exactly the way he was prior to COVID-19. Frederick always lived life to its fullest and his personality and those he made laugh will never be forgotten.    

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.

February 22, 1935 — November 13, 2020

Charlene Yvonne Peacock Staheli, 85, passed peacefully at home on Nov. 13, 2020, surrounded by loving family.

She was born in Emery, Utah, on Feb. 22, 1935, to Byron Charles and Eva Leona Petty Peacock, the youngest of six children. Valuable lessons were instilled growing up on the family farm, dairy and beekeeping operation. Charlene’s favorite chore was taking the cows to and from the pasture because she got to ride Ol’ Dick. She loved haying season, riding him as the derrick horse pulling huge forks of hay up into the barn.

Although preferring tractor and fields, homemaking arts were not neglected! From her mother, she learned sewing, quilting, mending, gardening, home canning and cooking. Excelling in writing, she attended school in Emery County until her senior year, when the beekeeping business moved her parents to Oregon.

Plans were made for Charlene to stay with an aunt in Ferron, so she could serve as yearbook editor and graduate with lifelong friends. However, a summertime visit to her oldest brother, Carlyle, a teacher in Enterprise, Utah, altered those plans. Quickly making new friends, she decided to transfer to Enterprise High School. At the Harvest Ball, a handsome war hero and returned missionary, J Stanford Staheli, asked her to dance. Something magical happened and before the night was over he asked for her hand in marriage! She knew that the guiding hand of the Lord had brought them together. They were married in the St. George Temple on March 21, 1953. She still served as yearbook editor and was valedictorian of her graduating class!

Stan and Charlene were blessed with ten children, but never passed up the opportunity of welcoming others into the family circle, including a Navajo “daughter.” Other students were hosted from Brazil, Costa Rica, China and Japan. Her love and gratitude for cherished family abounds!

Life was further enriched by travel, which mother loved. Postal Conventions afforded opportunities to see most of Utah’s attractions and a favorite trip to Hawaii. We were delighted when a Shetland pony, dubbed PoCon, was unloaded from the back seat of the car upon the return from one of these conventions! Other memorable trips were to Mexico to welcome Alicia, the first grandchild, and to Germany to pick up grandson, Jarom, from his mission. They walked where Stan had served during WWII, then detoured to Switzerland to visit the 400-year-old Staheli ancestral home. Eternal friendships were forged as they traveled for three summers to the Mormon Handcart Historic Site in Wyoming, as missionaries. Mother was a bit disappointed when they had to cancel a Church History Tour due to Stan’s failing health.

Her eternal sweetheart passed away on July 7, 2017. Lonely days were spent caring for the “homestead.” One day, mother expressed thoughts about that Church History Tour. We were inspired to make a phone call to the tour directors and, miraculously, there were just enough seats left for the 2019 Summer Tour! How mother loved the Statue of Liberty, the WWII Memorial, Gettysburg, as well as all the church history sites from Sharon, Vermont to Independence, Missouri!

Charlene is survived by eight children, Yvonne Colby, Lauana Carter (Randy), Mike Staheli (Roxanne), Delbert Staheli (Linda), Dave Staheli (Shelly), RayeLynn Gardner (Phillip), Kevin Staheli (Cristie), Daniel Staheli (Brittany), 58 grandchildren and 85 great-grandchildren; preceded in death by her husband, J Stanford Staheli, two children, Mason Staheli and Nani Furse(Todd), two grandchildren, Alyssa Carling and Kendall Staheli, parents Byron and Leona Peacock, sister, Erma Meservy (Oliver), brothers, Carlyle Peacock (Elsie), Herschel Peacock (Helen), Rolland Peacock(Roxie), Perry Peacock (Dorothy).

Services will be held Saturday, Nov. 21, at the Enterprise Stake Center, 80 S. Center Street, Enterprise Utah:

9-10:30 a.m. – Public Viewing

11 a.m. – Family Funeral (Live-streamed at mcmillanmortuary.com, click her obituary, scroll to the bottom next to service)

12:30 p.m. – Interment- Enterprise Cemetery.  Condolences may be shared at mcmillanmortuary.com

July 26, 1951  — November 15, 2020

I lost my own true love today Nov. 15, 2020 from cancer.

Gary Johnson was born in Pontiac Illinois on July 26, 1951, to Bud and Betty Johnson. He and his family moved to St. George Utah when he was a small boy. He grew up there and graduated from Dixie High School in 1970.

During his teenage years, Gary was in a band and is a drummer. He loved playing in that band and Ned Nelson was the guitar player and sang. In 1986 he drummed in The Virgin River Band. Great fun was had by all. He served his country in the Triple Deuce’s National Guard in St. George Utah. He’s told me many fond memories of his service and made many lifelong friends.

Gary worked in the auto parts industry a big part of his life. Color Country St George Utah, Charleston Auto Parts Las Vegas Nevada and Auto Parts Unlimited Salt Lake City, Utah.

On July 5, 1983, Gary and I met, thanks to our friend Lynne Fishman. We married on Aug. 1, 1983, combining his three children and my two children. We have had 37 wonderful years together. We lived in Coalville, then to Las Vegas, Nevada up to St George, Utah then in 1987 we moved to Bridger Valley Wyoming for 26 years. While there we owned and operated A1 Self Storage and Bridger Valley Auto Parts.

Gary went through to Police Acadamy in Douglas Wyoming and was voted most improved physical fitness in his class. He was a patrolman in Lyman Wyoming in 1989. He was also a civil process server while being on the police force. He also worked at Union Telephone in Mountain View, Wyoming. Gary became the Chief of Police in Mountain View, Wyoming, and it was from that job he retired in 2013.

We made many good friends throughout this time and cherish them all. It was great to live in Wyoming where my parents and the rest of my family lived. Once he retired we moved back to the St. George area and are near Gary’s family. We now live in Mesquite, Nevada and are near our daughter Heidi and family.

Gary has a need for speed and raced at Rocky Mountain Raceway in West Valley City, Utah. He has had several dragsters through the years. It’s a favorite hobby. He also loves to fish and that is his main way to chillax.
Gary is preceded in death by his parents Bud and Betty Johnson. His in-laws Barbara and Laverl Simmons. Best friend Ned Nelson and many Aunts, Uncles and cousins.

He leaves behind his wife Connie, sister Janna Mock (Donny) sister-in-law’s Verla Piercy ( Bobby) Charlene White (Tom) brother-in-law Robert Simmons (Jean), children Travis Rees, Billy Johnson, Heidi Davis (Bret), Brandee Watkins (Clint) and Jeremey Johnson, grandkids Payton, Tallisa, Taylor, Elijah, Halle, Drew and Parker and great-grandson Waylon.

We want to thank everyone for the help and love given to us in this difficult time. Thank you very much to Mesa View Hospice for their special care. Thank you to Virgin Valley Mortuary for their kindness and their wonderful care.

Cremation has been done as Gary wanted.

A celebration of life will be planned in the Spring.

Until now and then, till I see you again….I’ll be loving you.

Love me

The family invites you to leave a message or memory in their Guest Book at www.virginvalleymortuary.com.

September 20, 1945 — November 11, 2020

Paul Lewis Spilsbury, 75, of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, great-grandfather and brother, passed away on Nov. 11, 2020. He was born in Boulder City, Clark Co., Nevada on 20 Sept. 20, 1945, the fifth son of seven children of Archie Rlington Spilsbury and Bertha Young. 

Paul grew up in Las Vegas, where he graduated from Las Vegas High School in 1964. He served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, assigned to the Northwestern States Mission, 1964-1966. He attended Brigham Young University for one year, then entered the sheet metal journeyman program in Las Vegas.  

He married Patricia Louise Lemmon on June 20, 1970, in the St. George Temple in Utah. He served two and one-half years in the United States Navy during the Viet Nam conflict, stationed for the balance of that time aboard the aircraft carrier, USS Saratoga CVA-60, 1971-1973. He returned to Las Vegas in 1973, working in the sheet metal industry all over the Vegas Valley until his retirement. He enjoyed reading his beloved books, riding motorcycles and racing stock cars. 

He married Linda Karen Johnson on June 24, 2000. He and Karen took their lives on the road in an RV and traveled all around North and Central America before they settled in Homer, Alaska, then in Paradise, California until The Camp Fire in 2018. He spent his last years in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

He is survived by his wife Karen, his seven children: Jennifer Kathleen Wood, of Las Vegas; Christopher Paul Spilsbury (Melissa), of San Clemente, California; Lyn Alison Hunter, of Las Vegas; Rachel Louise Monteiro (Eric), of Las Vegas; Sara Diane Spilsbury (Fadi), of Long Beach, California; Benjamin Robert Spilsbury, of Salt Lake City, Utah; and Leslie Dawn Spilsbury, of Guadalajara, Mexico. He is also survived by thirteen grandchildren, one great-grandson, seven stepchildren and their 29 children.

Due to COVID restrictions, funeral services will be held for family and close friends at Spilsbury Mortuary in St. George, Utah on Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020. The viewing will be at 12:30 p.m. and funeral at 2 p.m. It will also be viewed online via this link http://webcast.funeralrecording.com/events/viewer/40781/hash:72B1040AC5C0A683.

Interment will follow at The Toquerville Cemetery in Toquerville, Utah. The family asks that in lieu of flowers please email your memory of how Paul touched your life to spilsburysbest@gmail.com or on Instagram @spilsburysbest. 

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

January 6, 1956 — November 13, 2020

Julie Lynn Nelson Hunt, 64, passed away peacefully at her home in Beryl, Utah on Friday, Nov. 13, 2020.

Julie was born on Jan. 6, 1956, in Las Vegas, Nevada to Jake and Norma Nelson. She grew up on the Nelson Ranch in Alamo, Nevada where she developed her love for horses, rodeoing and ranching. She married her sweetheart Terril C. Hunt on Feb. 14, 1974. Together they raised four children in the same lifestyle of rodeoing and ranching in Beryl, Utah. 

Julie was a loving wife who cared deeply for her spouse. Not a day went by that she did not spoil him in some way.

She was a great mom who loved her kids and cheered the loudest at every basketball game and rodeo. She was the best grandma in every way, and nothing brought her more joy than her beautiful grandchildren. 

Julie worked for home health care and loved and cared for many people. She also worked at the elementary and adored playing closely with the little ones. Julie was a genuine friend, always wanting to help and share a laugh with you. She spent hours sewing and crocheting things for her family and friends. She enjoyed genealogy and gardening but most of all helping her man with the cows. She was a true cowgirl. 

We want to thank all who loved and cared for Julie, especially in her last few years of life.  

Julie is survived by her husband, Terril Hunt and children; Todd (Lyndee) Hunt, Jeremy (Stacy) Hunt, Jessica (Ronnie) Bastian and Jennifer (Von) Spencer; along with 13 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. She is also survived by her siblings, Maureen Ryan, Mike Nelson and Roxie Wade. Julie is proceeded in death by her parents, Jake and Norma Nelson and parents-in-law, Bill and Edith Hunt. 

A viewing will be held on Thursday, Nov. 19, 2020, from 1-2:30 p.m. at the Enterprise Community Center. The graveside service will follow at the Enterprise Cemetery at 3 p.m. 

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

December 7, 1928 — November 14, 2020

Our beloved James Darrel Bunker, 91 returned home to our Father, sent off by loving family and received by loving family and friends, on Nov. 14, 2020. He passed peacefully in his sleep.

Darrel was born in St. George, Utah to James Raphael and Adele Slack Bunker on Dec. 7, 1928, the oldest of six siblings.  He grew up in Veyo, Utah, working alongside his father farming wonderful fruits and vegetables.  You could often find him in the watermelon patch eating the hearts of the watermelons.  He went to high school in St. George, driving the family tractor, the first one in Veyo.  He and his father would help other families with that tractor, learning at an early age the joy of helping others which he continued throughout his life and instilled that same principle in his children.

Darrel joined the Army when he was 18, sending his paychecks home to help his family.  Darrel met his wife, Roma Belle Staheli and was in love at first sight.  They were married in the St. George Temple on Dec. 3, 1948, during one of the worst snowstorms in Southern Utah. They lived in Veyo, in their “Honeymoon Cottage” and would wake up in the mornings with snow covering their bed that had blown in through the cracks.

Darrel was a hard worker and had many jobs including Deputy Sheriff in the Jeep Patrol, Justice of the Peace, insurance salesman, mining at the Iron Mine, driving truck, propane gas man, supervisor for the Union Pacific Railroad, where he retired, and many other jobs.

He really enjoyed being a deer hunting guide for California hunters, camping with family and friends, and fishing with Mom, and Alta and Willard Randall. He loved his horses, always had at least one close by, also enjoyed raising cows, ostriches, and goats.  He always loved playing card games, especially when he was the winner! Darrel and Roma served a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Nebraska Omaha mission. They also worked in the St. George Temple for two years. He was faithful in his Church callings, was a wonderful neighbor and is loved and will be greatly missed by family and many good friends.

Darrel is survived by his wife, Roma; children:  Jolene (John) Barstow, James Benton (Ingrid) Bunker, Lorna Davis, Wayne (Gerri) Bunker; 24 grandchildren; 50 great-grandchildren; one great, great-grandson; and sisters: Kathryn (Bennie) Nelson and Carma Lou Morris.  He is preceded in death by his parents, James Raphael and Adele Bunker; sisters: Beverly Jones and Adele Bunker; brother, Walter Garth Bunker; and sons: Donald Ray and Darren Reed Bunker.

Due to COVID restrictions, there will not be a formal visitation but those who would like to pay their respects may do so on Thursday, Nov. 19, 2020, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 W. St. George Blvd., St. George, Utah.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, Nov. 20, 2020, at 3 p.m. at the Enterprise City Cemetery, 501 E. 100 North, Enterprise, Utah. Masks are required for those attending viewing and services.

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.

The family would like to thank all those who took tender, loving care of our father, especially Ellen Vincent and Zions Way Home Care and Hospice.

May 30, 1931 — November 15, 2020

Patsy Lou Goforth passed away on Nov. 15, 2020. She was born May 30, 1931, in San Angelo, Texas to Roy Sterling and Cora Pennybacker Hays.

She was a farm girl growing up and regularly told stories of milking cows and harvesting crops. She rode trick horses and loved one in particular named “Little Shot.” She loved shooting skeet and could compete with the men, even winning trophies in some of the competitions she entered.

Her family later settled in Tucson, Arizona, where she met the love of her life, Archie Eugene Goforth, who proposed to her on “A” Mountain in Tucson when both of them were nursing broken limbs.

They were married June 1, 1950, a union that bore two children, Gary and Sherry, and lasted 67 years.

She worked at a variety of jobs over the years, including at a pharmacy, as a child care provider, and even at a steel company

She cared for her mother-in-law and mother in their twilight years and loved to do service for the Park Avenue Christian Church in Tucson, where she was a parishioner for nearly four decades. She loved to bake and was known as “The Pie Lady.” She even sold her pies to a few local restaurants. She also loved Western movies and TV and old-time fiddling and dancing.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and her son, Gary.

She is survived by her daughter, Sherry, of Washington, Utah, her sister, Mozelle, and brother, Robert, both of Tucson, as well as three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

She is now reunited with her sweetheart, whom she affectionately called “Daddy.”

We love her and will miss her dearly.

August 15, 1939 — November 12, 2020

Carmen Norien Davies, 81, passed away Nov. 12, 2020.  She was born Aug. 15, 1939, in Park City, Utah to Phyllis Kathleen Jensen and Harvey Daniels.

Carmen lived the majority of her life in the Salt Lake Valley. Growing up, she attended Hawthorne Elementary, Lincoln Jr. High and South High School. In elementary school, she was on safety patrol, in Girls Glee in the ninth grade and involved in Junior Achievement and on the bowling team during high school.

Carmen loved to ice skate and after her mom bought Carmen her very own pair of skates, she would go skating with friends every chance she got.

Right out of high school, she moved into an apartment with friends and worked for Bell Telephone Company. For a while she was transferred to Denver, Colorado to work for Bell.

Carmen met Ronald Davies on a blind date, and they were married in 1964. With that marriage she took on the responsibility of being a mother to two young children, later bringing three more children into the world. She was known for her love of all her children. She took notice of the individuality of each child and loved them for who they were. Her children knew they were loved by her.

Following her divorce with Ron Davies, she went back to work as a billing specialist in the medical industry. After retirement, she spent many selfless years taking care of her mother.

Carmen loved to quilt and crochet and made blankets for many of her grandchildren. While her children were growing up, she made beautifully decorated cakes for their birthdays. Carmen loved spending time with her grandchildren playing games, doing crafts, and watching movies. She also loved doing puzzles, reading and playing cards – Shanghai Rummy. She was an avid reality TV fan with “The Amazing Race” and “Survivor” as her favorites.

She loved traveling to Indiana to visit her sister and has done so since high school. Her last trip was in 2019.

She is survived by her five children: Camille Bullock (Brett); Aaron Davies; Carrie Silcox (Lyle); Caryn Hoskins (Shane); Ryan Davies (Grace); 15 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and many beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by parents and all of her siblings.

In keeping with Carmen’s wishes, she was cremated. Her cremains will be buried next to her mother’s grave in Park City and will be done in conjunction with a celebration of life held on her birthday on Aug. 15, 2021. For additional information regarding the celebration of life contact a family member.

In lieu of flowers, reach out to someone in need or someone in a care center/nursing home facility.

The family wishes to thank the caring staff at Hurricane Health and Rehabilitation.

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 7, 1932 — November 10, 2020

On Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2020, Betty Joan Neilson, a loving wife and mother of five children, passed away peacefully at the age of 88 in her home, and the company of family.

Betty Jo was born on Oct. 7, 1932, in St. George, Utah, to Clawson Joseph and Dixie Judd Burgess. She was raised in St. George and spent the summer months ranching in beautiful Pine Valley, Utah. As a fifth generation of the original Burgess Pine Valley pioneers, she loved the valley and was proud of her heritage.   

She achieved an Associate’s Degree from Dixie College. She diligently served in church callings throughout her life. On Feb. 28, 1953, she was married to her high school sweetheart, Clayton A. Neilson, in the St. George Temple. Together they raised two sons, Brad (Emily) Neilson and Chris (Ronda) Neilson, and three daughters, Cindy (Marv) Reeder, Kathy (Clark) Bird, and Brenda (Thomas) Weixler, in Las Vegas before moving back to sunny St. George.

As the first grandchild to Joseph and Effie May Judd Whitehead, the owners of St. George’s treasured candy store, Betty Jo developed a hankering for sweets. Having known each other since age five, Clayton recalls Betty Jo slipping behind her grandfather’s display counter to go through all the candy boxes in search of her favorite taffy and candy bars. Her favorite thing to say was, “I’ll have one of those, one of those, one of those… and charge it!” After practically being raised in the now-historic Thomas Judd General Store, Betty Jo was inspired to keep a ‘candy drawer’ in her kitchen to share her love of sweets with friends and family, just as she had done as a child.

The candy-lover also had an affinity for horses. The time Betty Jo spent cattle ranching and horseback riding with her father resulted in her ability to out-ride all of the boys in Pine Valley, bareback, nonetheless. Though somewhat shy and uncomfortable in the spotlight, she was crowned the St. George Rodeo Queen at age 18 in 1950. 

Later in life, Betty Jo and Clayton served as missionaries in the St. George Member Locator Mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They served diligently from January 2001 to July 2003, maintaining and contemporizing member records in the St. George Tabernacle.

Betty Jo was known for her dry sense of humor and witty one-liners. She was an avid reader and talented quilter like her mother, Dixie, and grandmother, Effie. She spent countless hours hand-quilting baby blankets for her grandchildren. Above all, she loved spending time with her family. 

Betty Jo is survived by her husband of 68 years, Clayton, their five children, 24 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren. Two grandchildren, Taylor and Callen, and daughter-in-law Kerry, preceded her in death. Her three siblings also survive her, Jeri (Dennis) Iverson, Jackilyn (Dusty) Fonnesbeck, C. Judd (Janice) Burgess.

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

January 15, 1947 — November 17, 2020

Connie Romney passed away suddenly on Nov. 17, 2020, at the age of 73. She was born on Jan. 15, 1947, in Safford Arizona to the parents of Sharon and Effie Johnson.

Connie married Archie Robert Romney in Safford on April 3, 1963, and we’re later sealed in the Mesa, Arizona Temple. She was raised in Safford, Arizona and later moved to Flagstaff, Arizona where Archie attended NAU. In 1967, Archie and Connie moved to Sahuarita, Arizona where they lived and raised their family for 30 years. In 1997 they decided to move to St. George, Utah where she spent the rest of her life.

Connie enjoyed being a mother to her eight children. She loved to sew, do crafts, read, go on cruises, camp, and wouldn’t miss an opportunity to go garage sale shopping every Saturday morning. Connie enjoyed spending 16 years being a speech aide. 

Connie is survived by her husband Archie Robert Romney, her children Sue Romney, Vicki Tuttle (Pat Tuttle), Kristy Harris (Jared Harris), Miles Romney (Shauna Romney), Debra Jacob (Adam Jacob), Daniel Romney (Sharilyn Romney), Sheree Taylor (Lee Taylor), Tammy Schouten (Nick Schouten) as well as her 27 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and sisters Alta Nelson (deceased) and Eddie Johnson.

 Funeral services will be held Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020, at Pine View Mortuary 566, N. Mall Drive, St. George Utah, 84790. Visitation will start at 9 am and services will follow at 10 am.

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.

November 27, 1931 — November 14, 2020

Nesha Tait, 88, passed away peacefully on Nov. 14, 2020, in St. George, Utah. She was the second of eight children born to George Merlin Dutson and Lura Williams in Murray, Utah on Nov. 27, 1931.

Nesha graduated from Chandler High School and the San Francisco College of Dental Nursing. She married Don C. Tait on Aug. 18, 1952, in the Salt Lake Temple. They lived in Yuma, Tucson, and Phoenix, Arizona; Las Vegas, Nevada; Hurricane, Utah, and she has been a resident of Toquerville, Utah, for 15 years.

She was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served faithfully in various ward and stake positions, serving twice as a Relief Society president. She served an LDS mission with her husband in McAllen, Texas, in 1995-1996. She served in the American Legion Auxillary and the Freedom First Foundation for the majority of her married life.

She was a quintessential homemaker and devoted angel mother, loving grandmother and great-grandmother. She knew the meaning of service, was an elect classy lady, and made friends easily.

She is survived by her children Tamra (Tom) Seegmiller, Lori (Brad) Beatty, Carson, David (Pam), and Amy (Shon) Fullmer; 29 grandchildren and 70 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, a granddaughter, and a great-grandson.

A family viewing will be held at the Serenity Funeral Home 1316 S. 400 East St. George, Utah, on Friday, Nov. 27, 2020, 9:30-10:45 a.m. followed by a family graveside service and interment in the Toquerville 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.

September 16, 1935 — November 11, 2020

Christel Klara Phillips, our dear Mutti (meaning Mother in German) passed away on Nov. 11, 2020, on Veterans Day, to be with her beloved husband of 49 years, Harvey R. Phillips, who was with the Navy and achieved Commander.

She is in a better place and is no longer suffering, may she rest in peace.

She is survived by her daughter, Doris Brown, Heidi Lee, her son Brad Phillips, grandson Nathayn Brown, and Jorg Cellarius her brother in Switzerland, who all will miss her deeply.

She was born on Sept. 16, 1935, in Gellin-Neustatten, Germany and experienced much tragedy and heartache through the German WW2 as a child, but was a survivor and fighter and made it through the other end a stronger person. 

She immigrated to Toronto, Canada to start a new life and new beginnings on Aug. 8 1954 on the Cruiseline “Arosa Star.”

Her life was full of many fascinating adventures, including traveling throughout all parts of the world and also collecting dynasty furniture from China along the way as part of her decor for her four different homes she lived in throughout her life. 

She was a woman of compassion for life and experienced many careers from trying to be a nurse and not enjoying it in Germany after the war,  to being a hairdresser in Toronto, Canada, to finding her true passion — working in the banking industry working her way up to VP Manager of Operations. Her banking career took her to San Diego, California where she spent 29 years of her life raising us kids.

In 1989, she adventured on to St. George Utah where she commuted back and forth to San Diego until she retired from banking. Then she found a new love of working for Intermountain Health Care at the hospital as a volunteer and eventually hired as a staff administrator and even helped put together the Jubilee of Trees event every Xmas. She did this until her husband of 49 years passed of Colon failure in January 2002. After that sadness, she had time to travel and get to know her grandchild Nathayn in Seattle much better who had just been born in Jan 1997. 

She later met Merl Bodell, who she spent 13 years with, and enjoyed his companionship and that of his kids. Peggy, Lane, Wayne and their families, until he passed away in November 2015.

The next five years was spent traveling, visiting her kids and grandson and having some health issues along the way that started keeping her home more in the later years. Her daughter, Doris, flew back and forth from her home and family of Seattle to be with her mother and cared for her for the next five years consistently with live and compassion. 

Then March 18, 2020, she came down with her son, Nathayn to help her mom full time so that she could die peacefuly in her home which was always her wish  and have as much quality life while in the process. We had as many adventures as we could for being ill and enjoyed each moment to the fullest as much as possible. Her needs were taken care with love and compassion until the very end with Christel’s final days of Nov. 11, 2020. She will be so missed by her family and many friends of the community as well as her brother Jorg and family in Switzerland. 

Her memories and adventures were full for 85 years and her treasures of her travels and experiences will live on in all of us that are left behind. 

Her Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date due to COVID-19.

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

September 29, 1981 — November 19, 2020

Amy Sadler of St. George Utah died Nov. 19, 2020. She was born Sept. 29, 1981, and grew up in New Bern, North Carolina. 

Amy was a graduate of New Bern High School. She received degrees from Lenoir Community College, Craven Community College and Mount Olive University and was a Registered Health Information Technologist (RHIT).  Amy enjoyed cooking, maintained an extensive cookbook library and excelled in the art of organization.

She is survived by her mother, Colleen Schwerin Sadler of St. George, Utah and her grandmother, Doris Sadler Forrest of Vanceboro, North Carolina. She was preceded in death by her father, William Craig Sadler of New Bern, North Carolina, grandmother, Amanda Fillingame Schwerin of New Bern, North Carolina, and grandfather, Clem Manley Sadler of Vanceboro, North Carolina.

There will not be any services and interment will take place in Greenleaf Cemetery in New Bern, North Carolina later.  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 Amy’s online guestbook at www.spilsburymortuary.com.

June 7, 1989 — November 17, 2020

Lorin Deloss Hammon, 31, passed away Nov. 17, 2020. He was born June 7, 1989, in Colorado City, Arizona to Lorin and Martha Hammon. 

Life sketch:

Deloss was born on Wednesday, June 7, 1989. Contrary to popular belief, he was a tiny baby weighing only 5lbs 2oz. From the day he was born, his black hair and big brown inquisitive eyes were magnetic. He was a sensitive tender spirit who was quick to check on those in need.

Deloss was active and highly involved in sports at an early age. Some of his favorite pastimes were spent playing, watching, and judging sports. He rarely missed a 3 pointer. Deloss attended The Colorado City Academy and graduated with class of 2007. After graduation, he made the choice to serve a mission for his church from which he learned a lot.

After his mission, Deloss moved to Salt Lake City and started a career in mortgage banking. This led him to exploring many cities across the United States from New Jersey to Las Vegas, where he purchased his first house. During this time he made countless lifelong friends and created his “chosen family,” creating memories that we all come back to for many years to come. He always referred to you as his second family. He spent six years in Las Vegas before being drawn back home where he spent the remainder of his time reconnecting with family and close friends.

He is survived by his parents, Lorin and Martha and his siblings Leslie, Kristene, Gaylene, Rose, Matthew and Morgan. 

Due to the current health crisis, a private viewing and funeral service will be held on Monday, Nov. 23, 2020. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to https://gf.me/u/y9bukt

Arrangements are made under the directions of Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff St., St. George, Utah, (435) 673-2454.  Friends and family are invited to sign Deloss’s online guest book at www.spilsburymortuary.com.

He loved family and friends. He loved taking care of those around him and being the person that people relied on. He had a passion for sports, camping and making sure everyone was having a great time.