(March 18, 1981 – December 23, 2014)

Benjamin Price Thomas, age 33, passed away peacefully in his home on Tuesday, December 23, 2014.  He was born March 18, 1981, in American Falls, Idaho, to Charles Eric Thomas and Debby Price Thomas.

Ben was raised in Washington, California, and Idaho.  He graduated from Idaho Falls High School in 1999.  After serving a two year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Copenhagen, Denmark, he graduated with an Associates Degree from BYU-I and then continued on to Brigham Young University where he earned a Bachelors Degree in Business Finance.  While attending BYU Provo he met and fell in love with Jena Green.  They were married in the St. George LDS Temple on August 14, 2004.

Upon graduation, Ben and Jena moved to St. George where he worked for Porter & Associates as an appraiser.  In June 2010, they welcomed their daughter Emmerson into the world.  Jena and Emmy are the light in Ben’s life.

Ben was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrigs disease) in Fall 2010.  Early on in Ben’s diagnosis he made it very clear that ALS might take his physical body, but he refused to let it take his joy and happiness.  If you knew Ben, he truly was happy.  He said it best when he said, “Happiness is a choice, and I choose to be happy.”

Ben wanted to thank everyone for the love and support shown to him and his family.  The MDA for all the support and equipment provided.  To his friends, near and far, ward members, and especially his family for all they’ve done for him.

Ben is survived by his wife Jena Thomas and his daughter Emmerson Elizabeth Thomas who reside in St. George.  His parents, Eric and Debby Thomas, Idaho Falls, Idaho.  His siblings, Jayne (Shawn) Crook and five children, Lyndsey (Brian) Durst and three children, Charlie, Matt, and Katelyn (Cory) Beck and one child.

He is also survived by his in-laws who truly were family to Ben, Michael and Sharilyn Green, St. George and siblings, Nate (Keith), Jared (Danielle), Mark, Michelle, and Jessica.

Ben was preceded in death by Grandpa Kleal Price, Grandma Jayne Price, Grandpa Charles Thomas, and nephew Christian Michael Green.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be on Saturday, Dec. 27 at 11 a.m. in the Washington Fields LDS Stake Center, 1295 South 3000 East, St. George, Utah.
• A viewing on Saturday, at 9:30 a.m., prior to services at the Stake Center, and on Friday, Dec. 26, from 6-8 p.m. also at the Stake Center.

Arrangements have been made under the direction of Heideman Hughes Mortuary, telephone 435-674-5000.

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(March 3, 1929 – December 24, 2014)

Cecil Lynn, passed away December 24, 2014.  She was born March 3, 1929 in Panguitch, Utah, to William and Myrle Tait Lynn.  She married Richard Banaszynski, he preceded her in death.

She was an active member of the LDS Church, serving in many capacities.

She is survived by three sons: Lynn Richard Banaszynski, William John Banaszynski and Paul David Banaszynski.  She was preceded in death by daughter Andrea.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held Monday, Dec. 29 at 10 a.m. at the Southgate 2^nd Ward Chapel, 1068 West Chandler Drive, St. George, Utah.
• Visitations will be held Sunday, Dec. 28 from 6-8 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 W. St. George Blvd, St. George, and Monday, from 9-9:45 a.m. prior to services at the chapel.
• Interment will be held at 3 p.m. at the Panguitch Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, telephone 435-673-4221. For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit the Metcalf Mortuary website.

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(November 8, 1953 – December 23, 2014)

Steven Roy Arko, age 61, passed away on December 23, 2014. He was born November 8, 1953, in Murray, Utah, to Louis and Myrtle Reid Arko.

He was raised in Park City, Utah. He graduated from Park City High School in 1972. He received a Mechanical degree from Ford.

He married Wendie McComb in 1973. They spent the majority of their life in LaVerkin where they raised their four beautiful children.

He loved anything outdoors, camping, fishing, and hiking. He was always up for a great adventure.

Steven is survived by his mother, Myrtle Arko of LaVerkin, Utah; daughters, Sparkel of Apple Valley, Utah, April of Sandy, Utah; sons, Martin of Sandy, Utah, Monty of St. George, Utah; seven grandchildren, Trinity, Ethan, Kylee, Kaylee, Serenity, Logan and Jayce; and brother, Bill of West Valley, Utah.

He is preceded in death by his father, Louis Martin Arko and brother, Dennis Arko.

Funeral Services

• A memorial service will be held, Saturday, Dec. 27, at 4 p.m. in the LaVerkin 4^th Ward LDS Chapel, 481 North Main Street, LaVerkin, Utah.

We would like to thank the doctors and staff at Dixie Regional for their exceptional care.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Spilsbury Mortuary, telephone 435-673-2454.

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(May 31, 1929 – December 27, 2014)

Roma Bowler Staheli, age 85, passed away December 27, 2014, at her home in St. George, Utah, surrounded by her family.  She was born May 31, 1929, in St. George, Utah, to Richard “Dick” Bowler and Ella Jane Hunt.

When Roma was 11 months old her mother passed away.  She and her older sister, Wilma, were raised by their grandparents Henry and Maybell Hunt in Gunlock, Utah.

She attended school in a two room school house in Gunlock, Utah, and high school in St. George, Utah.

She met the love of her life, Bert Staheli, at a dance at the Veyo Pool.  They were married March 1, 1947, in Gunlock, Utah, and later sealed in the St. George LDS Temple on February 3, 1948. At the time of Bert’s passing, seven months ago, they had been married 67 years.  As Bert was taking his final breath, Roma took a hold of his hand and told him to walk slow and she’d be right behind him.

Roma loved the outdoors.  She loved Gunlock, camping, deer hunting, chasing floods and her dog Cocoa.  But most of all, she loved Bert, her sister, Wilma, her four daughters and her sons-in-law and all of her grandchildren.

Roma is survived by her daughters: Andrea (Mike) Miller of St. George, Debra (Rick) Bracken of Bigelow Ranch, Tamara (Randy) Holyoak of St. George, Neica (Bryce) Christensen of St. George; fifteen grandchildren; 37 great-grandchildren; 14 great-great grandchildren; her sister: Wilma Leavitt; brother: Kay (Beverly) Bowler; sister: Maybel Welch, Colleen (Mike) Cannon and Calleen (Art) Durfee.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bert; son, Randy Bert Staheli; granddaughter, Chauntelle Christensen; grandson, Brad Ovard; brother-in-law Raphael Leavitt; brother, Jack and sister-in-law, Shirley Bowler.

Roma’s heart and spirit died the day Bert passed away.  We rejoice knowing they are happily reunited and grateful for the example of unconditional love they showed for each other and all of us.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 31, at 11 a.m. at the St. George East Stake Center, 449 South 300 East, St. George, Utah.
• Visitations will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 30, from 6-8 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 West St. George Blvd, St. George, Utah and on Wednesday, from 9:30-10:30 a.m., prior to services at the Stake Center.
• Interment will be at the Enterprise Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, telephone 435-673-4221. For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit the Metcalf Mortuary website.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks and gratitude to Clark and Deni Staheli for the years of compassionate care given to both Bert and Roma.

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

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(March 16, 1955 – December 26, 2014)

Mark Ryan Weaver, age 59, passed away due to a sudden heart attack on December 26, 2014, in Toquerville, Utah. He was born March 16, 1955, to Robert Eugene and Marie Violet Pettay Weaver.

Mark loved life. He was a generous person, always there to help. He loved his animals and his family. Mark enjoyed hunting and the outdoors. He had a very close relationship with God and he is rejoicing in Heaven with his family. Mark and his stories will be greatly missed by all.

He is survived by his four sisters, Peggy Goodsell, Jan Bohn, Kathy (David) Kahus, Kellie Hafen; a brother, Randy Weaver; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, and a brother-in-law, Melton Goodsell.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held Wednesday, Dec. 31, at 1 p.m. in the Spilsbury Hurricane Valley Mortuary, 25 North 2000 West, Hurricane.
• There will be a viewing on Wednesday, from noon to 1 p.m., prior to services at the mortuary.
• Interment will take place in the Toquerville Cemetery.

Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Hurricane Valley Mortuary, telephone 435-635-2212. Friends and family are invited to sign Mark’s online guestbook at the Spilsbury Mortuary website.

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(March 24, 1924 – December 29, 2014)

Conrad Paul Willis, age 90, passed away December 29, 2014, due to complications of Valley Fever.  He was born March 24, 1924, in Snowflake, Arizona, to Albert Tillman and Ida Flake Willis.

Conrad was born one of 12 children and grew up during the depression.  He served on an aircraft carrier during WWII and the Korean War.

Conrad married Shirley Nilsson in 1948.  They were married for 57 years and together they raised four daughters and two sons.  They had 29 grandchildren, and 45 great grandchildren.  He later married Anna Eddington.

He completed a Master’s Degree in Chemistry from BYU and was a Nuclear Chemist for the Department of Energy in Idaho Falls, Idaho.

Conrad was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served a mission in St. George, Utah.  He served as a Stake Mission President and also served in a Bishopric.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Shirley Nilsson Willis, and his daughter Cindy Willis Grover.  He is survived by his second wife, Anna Eddington, his two sons: Norman and Bill; three daughters: Kim, Connie and Christy; 29 grandchildren and 45 great grandchildren.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held Saturday, Jan. 3, at 11 a.m. at the Santa Clara 6^th Ward Chapel, 3815 West Rachel Drive, Santa Clara, Utah.
• Visitations will be held on Friday, Jan. 2 from 6-8 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 West St. George Blvd, St. George, Utah, and on Saturday, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to services at the chapel.
• Interment will be held at the Santa Clara Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, telephone 435-673-4221. For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit the Metcalf Mortuary website.

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(November 10, 1928 – December 27, 2014)

George Alexander Widlund, 86, passed away Friday, December 27, 2014. He was born November 10, 1928, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to his mother, Hilma Kristina Åkerblom, and father, Alexander William Herbert Widlund. He married Mary Jean Mejia July 20, 1962, in the Logan Utah Temple.

George grew up in the Avenues of Salt Lake City, Utah. He graduated from East High School and attended the University of Utah afterward. He and his father built the home where he and his wife raised their three children. He was a drafter for Cudahy Meat Packing Company for 17 years.  Later he worked for the University of Utah Medical Center doing refrigeration and maintenance. His final job was with Mountain Fuel of Salt Lake City. George loved skiing, fishing, and old cars.

George is survived by his wife, Mary Jean Mejia of St. George, Utah; his daughters, Lisa Widlund Belliston and Susan Widlund Taylor (Bart) of St. George, Utah; his son, Mark Widlund of Salt Lake City, Utah; and his three granddaughters, Sierra, and Kayla and Gina Taylor. He is preceded in death by his parents and his sisters, Lily Margaret Widlund Sheen and Mary Harriet Widlund Schow.

Funeral Services

• The dedication of the grave and interment will be Friday, Jan. 2, at 1 p.m. at the Mount Olivet Cemetery at 1342 East 500 South, Salt Lake City, Utah.

George’s family would like to thank Seasons Health and Rehabilitation and the nurses and staff for the care and comfort they gave George.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at 595 South Bluff Street #4, St. George, Utah 84770.

Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, telephone 435-673-2454. Friends and family are invited to sign George’s online guestbook at the Spilsbury Mortuary website.

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(April 23, 1924 – December 29, 2014)

Dale H Harper, age 90, passed away December 29, 2014, at the Ivins Veteran Home.  Dale was born in April 23, 1924, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Lester John Harper and Ida Ellen Jones.  His beloved wife Lorina Bay Harper lovingly attended to him for years, including providing tender care for him at the hospital and the Veteran’s Home.

Dale grew up in Southern California and enjoyed fishing, recreation and family.  He enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps in World War II and served as navigator and top turret gunner in B-17’s.  He flew bombing missions from North Africa and Italy before being shot down.  He spent the last part of the war as a POW and was moved from camp to camp towards Berlin as the Allies approached.  After the war, he re-enlisted for electronics training during the Korean War before joining the Air Force Reserves.  Dale earned his bachelor’s degree and spent many years teaching in schools in Idaho and Utah.

His loved camping in Yellowstone Park, traveling along the Oregon Coast, buying new cars, and building and selling new homes after the family finished the basement and put in the yard and fences.

Dale was preceded in death by his eternal wife Ruth Goulding Harper.  His other relatives include his wife Lorina, children Sandy Trujillo, Carl Harper, Wayne Harper, Diane Mochel, Sharon Jackman, Denise Harper Rodriguez, Jay Harper, 39 grand children, 46 great grandchildren, brother John Harper and other relatives and friends.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held Friday, Jan. 2, at 11 a.m. at the LDS Meeting House on 320 North 3200 West, Hurricane, Utah.
• A viewing will be held Friday, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to services at the chapel.
• Burial and a graveside service will be held at the Pleasant Grove Cemetery, 500 North Main Street, Pleasant Grove, Utah on Saturday, Jan. 3, at 11 a.m.

Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, telephone 435-673-2454. Friends and family are invited to sign Dale’s online guestbook at the Spilsbury Mortuary website.

The post Dale H. Harper appeared first on St George News.

(May 11, 1934 – December 30, 2014)

William (Bill) Blaine Olsen, age 80, of Washington, Utah, returned to his Heavenly Father on Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2014. His wife of 51 years, Tereece Grover Olsen, was at his side.

He was born May 11, 1934, in Peerless, Utah, to Louis Blaine Olsen and Katherine Nelson Olsen. He is survived by a brother, Robert Earl Olsen; and a sister, Susan Olsen; his children and their spouses: William Russell Olsen (Diana), Erik Louis Olsen (Kathleen), John Blaine Olsen (Melanee), Katherine Marie Penrose (Michael), and Kurt Andrew Olsen; 12 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by a grandchild, Christian Andrew Olsen.

He was raised in eastern Utah and graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Utah and later received a Master’s Degree from Utah State University.

Bill served in the army during the Korean War and, after being honorably discharged, then served an LDS mission to Denmark for three years.

After marriage, he lived with his family in southwestern Montana for a few years before moving to St. George, Utah. They soon purchased a home and property in Washington, Utah, where they have remained for the past 45 years.

Bill spent his career teaching at Dixie High School and Pine View High School, where he taught Drivers Education, German, and History classes.

Bill enjoyed yard work and gardening and visiting his kids and grandchildren. He also was an active member of the American Legion.

Bill was an active member of the LDS Church throughout his life and served in many callings in service to his fellow man and his Savior.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services were held Friday, Jan. 2, at 11 a.m. at the LDS Chapel located at Main and Telegraph in Washington, Utah.
• A viewing was held on Friday, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to services at the chapel.

Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, telephone 435-673-2454. Friends and family are invited to sign Bill’s guest book at the Spilsbury Mortuary website .

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(September 25, 1959 – January 2, 2015)

Clark Tennyson Gubler returned home to his Heavenly Father on January 2, 2015, age 76.  He was born November 20, 1938, in St. George, Utah, to Archie Henry and Marie Blake Gubler.  He married DeAnn Lynn on September 25, 1959 in the St. George Temple.

Clark was raised in Santa Clara, Utah where he spent his childhood working on the family farm and attending school.  His favorite memory that he loved to share with his family was about peddling peaches throughout Southern Utah with his brothers.

Throughout his life he had opportunities to work and serve in many capacities.  At a young age he became the assistant manager of Center Department Store (a family owned business) where he worked with his older brother Lester.  He continued working there until he started developing the family owned land – now called Santa Clara Heights.  After years of developing, he returned to farming and ranching in Santa Clara and Beaver, which he loved and continued until his passing.

He was an active member of the LDS Church where he served in various callings, including: Branch President at the Shivwit Branch, member of multiple Bishoprics, various stake callings, temple worker and a devoted home teacher.  He was a friend to all.

He loved and was very supportive of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren in their various activities.  He was one dedicated fan.

Clark is survived in life by his wife DeAnn Lynn Gubler, his children: Ralyn (Phillip) Jessup, Shelli (Kelly) Christensen, Neisa (Glen) Anderson, Sandi (Russ) Imlay, Shawn (Tina) Gubler, Chris Gubler; 26 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren; two brothers: Orwin (Velda) and Dale (Sheree).  He was preceded in death by his son Jeffrey Clark Gubler; one great grandson: Tatum Jacob Christensen; his parents; and siblings: Anna Smith, Lester and Deloy Gubler.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held Wednesday, Jan. 7, at 11 a.m., at the LDS Chapel located at 3815 West Rachel Drive, Santa Clara, Utah.
• Visitations will be held Tuesday, Jan. 6 from 6-8 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 West St. George Blvd, St. George, and Wednesday, Jan. 7, from 9-10:30 a.m., prior to services at the chapel.
• Interment will be held at the Santa Clara Cemetery.
• Arrangements entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, 435-673-4221. For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings visit the Metcalf Mortuary website.

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(June 22, 1923 – December 3, 2014) 

Cassius Furman Whitehill, Jr., best known as “Cash,” passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 3, 2014, in St. George, Utah, at the age of 91.

He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Elizabeth “Betty” Reichard Whitehill; daughter, Edana W. Hough; step-sons: John (Lorie) Hiltabiddle  and Tom (Jeni) Hiltabiddle; as well as seven grandchildren: Chad (Kelley) Rial, Kristen (Matt) Odmark, Star (Ian) Grieve, Jessica Hough, Jason (Lorri) Hiltabiddle, Joshua (Sheila) Hiltabiddle; 11 great-grandchildren; brother, John “Jack” Whitehill and sister, Enid Spryn.  He was predeceased by his parents: Cassius Furman Whitehill, Sr. and Josephine Cummings Cook; as well as a daughter, Jerene Jo Whitehill; and grandson, Jamie Hiltabiddle.

Cash was born in Franklin, Pennsylvania, on June 22, 1923, and graduated from Franklin High School in 1941.  He entered the U.S. Navy in April 1944, and was honorably discharged in May 1946.  He served aboard the U.S.S. Lexington, CV-16 in the Pacific theater where he heard the explosion of two atomic bombs. Cash was aboard ship in Tokyo Bay when the peace treaty was signed.  After his discharge he obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering and an M.S. in Mechanical Engineering. He worked for Chicago Pneumatic Tool; taught at Montana State College in Bozeman, Montana; was an engineering consultant in Paris, France; and retired from GrimmerSchmidt in 1989.  Much of his career was spent on the ongoing development of the single screw compressor with its inventor, Bernard Zimmern.

Cash was an avid outdoorsman with a special love of hunting and fishing in both Western PA and Montana.  He also pursued a lifetime love of skeet shooting and was instrumental in the founding of the Isaak Walton Club in Franklin, Pennsylvania, and the Purgatory Clay range outside of St. George, Utah.  Friends and family are blessed to have his memoirs, “Most of It Was Fun”.  He and two cousins published a family genealogy titled The Whitehills in America (Heroes and Heroines) spanning nearly 300 years.

Cash was well known as a faithful husband and father, an entertaining storyteller, a man of integrity and a steadfast friend.  He will be deeply missed by all that knew and loved him.

His ashes will be buried in the Franklin Cemetery in Franklin, Pennsylvania.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to a local Isaak Walton League, The Franklin Public Library, Purgatory Clay Sports or a charity of their choice.

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(October 16, 1962 – January 5, 2015)

John Eldon Smith II, 52, of St George, Utah, passed away January 5, 2015, at home.   He was born October 16, 1962, in Flint, Michigan, to John E. Smith and Turetha Mae Elliott.   Although, he was never married,  he always said that he was a  lucky man that he found two loves of his life: Rebecca McMillan with whom he had two children, Nicole and Kyle, and his current life partner, Jana Peterson, with whom he spent the last five years.

He spent his early life in Michigan and travelled around the county in his late teens until he landed in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he started his trade as a carpet and floor installer.  Later, he developed an interest in motorcycles and enjoyed off road riding and motocross racing.  He also loved working on motorcycles and four wheelers and started a part time repair business until illness prevented him from working.

He was always determined especially when told he couldn’t do something.  It got him through tough times when he broke most of his bones in his body due to a motorcycle accident and was told he would never walk again, he showed them and not only walked, but continued his profession as floor installer.

However, this last illness hit him hard and he had a hard time dealing with all the losses that it brought.  He was tired of fighting and was ready to rest.  I will always love you John, I hope you are happy and free of pain.

He is survived by his life partner, Jana Peterson.  He is preceded in death by his parents and his older brother, Matt Smith.

John chose to be cremated.

In lieu of flowers, letters may be sent to Jana Peterson, 45 West 200 South, St. George, Utah, 84770.

Friends and family are invited to sign John’s guest book at the Spilsbury Mortuary website. Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 South Bluff Street, St George, Utah, telephone 435-673-2454.

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(October 12, 1999 – January 6, 2015)

St. George, Utah, resident Juan Antonio Solares, at the age of 15, passed away on Tuesday, January 6, 2015. He was born on October 12, 1999, in Guatemala, Guatemala, to Enio Solares and Yesika Becerra.

He was raised here in St. George, Utah, and went to school at Snow Canyon Middle School and Dixie Middle School. Juan enjoyed playing soccer, video games, playing the drums and hanging out with friends.

He was a great son, brother and friend and will be greatly missed by many.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services and viewing will be Thursday, Jan. 8, at 7 p.m. at Ministerios Amor En Accion, 43 North 700 East, St. George, Utah.
• Interment will take place on Friday, Jan. 9, at 10 a.m. at the Tonaquint Cemetery.

Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, telephone 435-673-2454. Friends and family are invited to sign Juan’s online guestbook at the Spilsbury Mortuary website.

The post Juan Antonio Solares appeared first on St George News.

(September 16, 1927 – January 8, 2015)

Clifton A Parkinson died peacefully at his home on Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2015, with his wife, Rachel and daughters, Susan and Nancy by his side. Clifton was born Sept. 16, 1927, in Snowfield, Utah, to Thomas Earl Parkinson and Mary Matilda Woodall.

He was the youngest of nine children. His brothers and sisters are Ireta, Thomas Claude, Vera, Merle, Earl, Oma, Warren, Mary. All his siblings preceded him in death. As did his wife, Jean Gudmundson and son Clifton Paul Parkinson.

Cliff was a loving, kind, gentle, hard worker, husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend, who will be missed by all who were touched by him one way or another.

He grew up in Pintura, Hurricane area of the state of Utah. He learned his ways from his good parents. He loved to do wood working and other crafts. He was a master gardener in fruits, vegetables, and flowers especially Iris! He loved the scriptures and serving others.

Cliff loved his family dearly and each of them enjoyed many good times with him and received many wonderful handmade gifts from him.

Surviving family include his wife, Rachel Thomas; children, Bill Parkinson (Robyn), Susan (Joe) Bradshaw, Christine Parkinson, Nancy (Paul) Mortensen; stepchildren, Joshua (Cami) Thomas, Ruth (Chad) Howver, Rebecca Thomas; grandchildren: Kimberly, Kammie, Ronald, Benjamin, Adam, Jeffrey, Angie, Casey, Taylor, Moriah, Jesus, Raul and Sam (the dog!); 15 great-grandchildren and 2 great great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and one brother-in-law, Alden Black.

We especially want to express our thanks for the hospice team from Dixie Home Care and Hospice for their tender and loving care given to our dad; and the special attention given by Cindy, his nurse.

Thank you for the care and services provided by Spilsbury Mortuary of St. George and McDougal Mortuary of Salt Lake.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held Saturday, Jan. 10, at 2:30 p.m. at the Spilsbury Mortuary Chapel, 110 S. Bluff, St. George.
• A viewing will be on Saturday, from 1:30-2:30 p.m. at the Spilsbury Mortuary Chapel, prior to services and on Tuesday, Jan. 13, from 1-1:45 p.m. at MacDougal Mortuary, 4330 South Redwood Road, Salt Lake City, Utah.
• Graveside services will be on Tuesday, at 2 p.m. at the Murray City Cemetery, Murray, Utah.

Friends and family are invited to sign Cliff’s online guestbook at the Spilsbury Mortuary website and the McDougal Funeral Home website.

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(June 21, 1926 – January 12, 2015)

George Richard Pallas passed away on January 12, 2015, in Alpine, Utah.

George was born on June 21, 1926, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Tony and Mary Pallas.  He had two brothers and three sisters. George served his country in WWII in the US Army.  He married Janet Bartlett on June 26, 1948.  They had five children and were married for 60 years until Janet passed away in 2008.

George worked as a Teamster, for Rock Island Motor Transit, he retired in 1977.  He and Janet moved to Logan, Utah, where he worked as a mechanical foreman for the LDS church for many years.  He and Janet moved to Santa Clara, Utah, in 1995.  George and Janet had many friends and loved their Santa Clara neighborhood.  Most people he knew just called him Grandpa.

George loved working in his shop and making wood projects for everyone.  He loved waving to all the children and neighbors that passed by.  He enjoyed making anything with his hands. George could also be seen riding shot-gun with the Santa Clara Marshals.  He was a quiet man of few words but had a huge heart.

George served in many church callings but especially loved the Boy Scouts.  He loved to joke, and almost always had a smile on his face.  He loved teaching others his trades.  Fishing, hunting, and camping were some of George’s favorite past times.  George always loved the simple things in life.

After his wife’s death George moved to Alpine, Utah, to live with his daughter Joy and her husband Robert.  Joy took such good care of him. She devoted the past five years to caring for his needs.  He was her constant companion and rarely was out of her sight. He was fortunate to have a wonderful aide that came to assist with his various personal needs.  His favorite was Candice Hammer who always brought a smile to his face and a wiggle to his walk.

He is preceded in death by his wife Janet and his son George Richard Jr.  He is survived by Debra (daughter) of West Palm Florida, Ted (son) and his wife Birdie of La Pointe, WI, Joy (daughter) and her husband Robert Jones of Alpine, Utah, and Chris (son) and his wife Lori of Santa Clara.  His brother Martin and his sister Irene also survive him. George had grandchildren and great grandchildren that loved him very much.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held Saturday, Jan. 17, at noon at the Spilsbury Mortuary Chapel, 110 South Bluff, St. George.
• A viewing will be held Friday, Jan. 16, from 6-8 p.m. at the mortuary and on Saturday, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. prior to services.
• Interment will take place in the Santa Clara Cemetery.

Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454. Friends and family are invited to sign George’s online guestbook at the Spilsbury Mortuary website.

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(February 10, 1928 – January 12, 2015)

Jean Dyreng Rasmussen peacefully passed away on January 12, 2015, at her home in St George, Utah. She was born on February 10, 1928, in Manti, Utah, to Grant Milton Dyreng and Ada Victor Bunderson.

She married Charles Ray Rasmussen on May 27, 1949, in the Manti Temple, and they recently celebrated their 65th anniversary. In 1988 to 1990 they served a full-time mission to Denmark.

Jean found joy faithfully serving the Lord, in all auxiliaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She was a member of the Daughters of Utah Pioneers and Kiwanis and volunteered at BYU Museum of Art. She was an accomplished pianist.

Jean’s greatest joy life was her family, including six children, 32 grandchildren and 45 great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband Charles; her sister, Marilyn (James) Maxfield and brother Steven (Betty) Dyreng; her children Karen Long, David (Shauna) Rasmussen, Kimball (Shelley) Rasmussen, Diane (Mike) Sellers, Kathy Davis and Daniel (Stacey) Rasmussen. She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister Janet Dyreng, and a brother Galen Dyreng.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held Monday, Jan. 19, at 1 p.m. at the Cedar Creek Chapel, 900 North Main Street (Hwy 117), Spring City, Utah.
• Visitations will be held Sunday, Jan. 18, from 6-8 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 West St. George Blvd, St. George, Utah, and Monday, at noon, prior to services at the Chapel.
• Interment will be in the Ephraim Park Cemetery.

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

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(December 28, 1943 – January 14, 2015)

Gordon Rene Bentley, 71, died January 14, 2015, in St. George, Utah. He was born December 28, 1943, in Denver, Colorado, to Richard Sullivan Bentley and Noma Cox. He married Ellen Elizabeth Swanson. They were married in Marietta, Love, Oklahoma, on November 20, 1967.

He was born in Colorado and lived in Idaho, Montana, Texas, Arizona, Nevada, California, Berlin, Germany, and Utah. He was a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He enjoyed listening to music, spending time with his family, watching movies, and fixing things around the house. He was a hard worker and a dedicated servant to God. He served a full-time mission, was a Bishop, and served in the St. George temple for the last nine years.

He was survived by his wife, Ellen; children: Kenneth & Heather of Tampa, Florida, Chris & Elizabeth of Las Vegas, Nevada, Tim and Vonalin of Lehi, Utah, Jon and Lacy of American Fork, Utah, Shandra & Tom Wendel of Las Vegas, Nevada, and Joel of Dolan Springs, Arizona; 14 grandchildren; his sister Darylene (Ken) Nickell; and brothers Rick (Adele) and Jerre (Jean).

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held Saturday, Jan. 17, at 3 p.m. at the St. George LDS East Stake Center, 449 South 300 East, St. George, Utah.
• Visitations will be on Saturday, from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 228 West St. George Blvd, St. George and Saturday, from 2-2:30 p.m. at the Stake Center.
• Interment will be in the St. George Cemetery.

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

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(August 13, 1946 – January 13, 2015)

Harold Martin Friedel, III, better known as “Marty,” was born August 13, 1946, to Barbara and Hal Friedel Jr. in Salt Lake City, Utah. Marty passed away January 13, 2015 in St. George, Utah, after a valiant five year battle with cancer.

Marty moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, at the age of eight. He attended Western High School, Dixie College, and the University of Utah. He served a mission to the West Central States for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He married his sweetheart, Sherry Ann Nielsen on December 19, 1969, in the Salt Lake City Temple.  They are parents of five children.

Marty was preceded in death by his son, Darrel Friedel; daughter-in-law, Lisa Friedel; sister, Nancy Friedel Donald; and his parents. He is survived by wife, Sherry; children: Janet Friedel (Rick) Clayton, “Ty” Friedel, David Friedel and Jewelee Friedel; and nine grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings: Tom (Julie) Friedel of St. George, James (Michelle) Friedel of Las Vegas and Debra Friedel (Mike) Daley of Tucson, Arizona.

Marty served the community as a volunteer fireman starting in 1981 in Bloomington, Utah and continued into St. George to the present time as Captain of Station # 7.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held Wednesday, Jan. 21, at 11 a.m. at the Metcalf Mortuary Chapel, 288 West St. George Blvd, St. George, Utah.
• A visitation will be held Wednesday, from 9:30-10:30 a.m., prior to services at Metcalf Mortuary.
• Interment will be in the St. George City Cemetery.

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

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(1951 – January 13, 2015)

Donald Robert Grange, age 64, passed away January 13, 2015, in Ivins, Utah. He was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, to William and Lila Darling Grange. He attended school in Salt Lake City and graduated from high school in California.

Donald honorably served in the Marine Corp doing a tour in Vietnam, 1^st 175 mm Gun Battery. He was a LCPL E-3 Officer. When he left the military he worked in California and then moved to Salt Lake and worked for Rockwell International. When he moved to St. George he worked for the Washington County School District in Maintenance, the Hilton, and also at the Wal-Mart Distribution Center.

Donald loved working with computers, playing video games, classic cars, and was a diehard Jimmy Johnson 48 NASCAR fan.

Donald was preceded in death by his wife, Marilyn Grange; daughter, Sandra Grange; grandson, Quinton Grange; father, William Grange; his sister, Linda Schaublin; and many other family members and friends.

He is survived by his son, John Robert Grange of Ivins; mother, Lila Grange of Ivins; sister, Barbara Harvey (Mark) of Ivins; and brother, William Leon (Carla) Grange of Arkansas.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be Monday, Jan. 19, at 1 p.m. in the Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 South Bluff Street, St. George, Utah.
• A viewing will be held on Monday, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., prior to services.
• Interment will be in the Ivins City Cemetery.

Donations may be made at any branch of State Bank of Southern Utah in care of John Robert Grange.

Family and friends are invited to sign his online guestbook at the Spilsbury Mortuary website.

A live webcast will be available for those unable to attend the service. Arrangements have been made are under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, St. George 435-673-2454.

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(August 14, 1922 – January 16, 2015)

Mary Kathleen Lowrance Cowley, wife of the late Ray Garn Cowley of Venice, Utah, passed away on January 16, 2015. She was born August 14, 1922, in Brigham City, Utah, to Mary Elizabeth Tyner and John William Lowrance.

Mary is survived by her children: Marsha Cowley Hall, William Garn (Gail) Cowley, Gregory Bruce (Cindy) Cowley and James Michael (Marya) Cowley; eight grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren.

Mary and Ray lived 35 years in La Verkin, Utah, after spending 26 years in the U.S. Military. During this time Ray graduated from the University of Utah and the University of Utah Medical School. Together they lived in many parts of the world during and after the Second World War and the Korean War.

Mary was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and had the opportunity to be a leader in all the organizations open to women during her many years. She also taught many Relief Society classes and learned a great deal that was of value to her as well as her family. She and her husband were active members of the LaVerkin 2nd Ward where her husband served as bishop.

Mary was active with the American Red Cross and was briefly president of the American Women’s Club when she lived in Augsburg, Germany, before moving to Regensburg, Germany. While in Germany Mary learned to speak the German language.

Mary took advantage of opportunities to learn many things by taking night classes in art, millinery and sewing, as well as many other subjects. She subsequently taught sewing, dress-making and suit-making.

Mary was a pleasant, happy person who rarely met a person she didn’t like. She enjoyed being a wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother.

In her later years she developed acute asthma and bronchitis. These and other illnesses made it necessary that she stay at home, limiting much interaction with those she loved. She will be remembered for talents and traits ingrained by growing up in the “wild west” of Montana, including grit, optimism, a sense of adventure and a loving nature.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held on Friday, Jan. 23, at 1 p.m., at the Venice LDS Ward Chapel, 170 South Main Street, Venice Utah.
• A viewing will be held Thursday, Jan. 22, from 6-8 p.m. at Metcalf Hurricane Valley Mortuary, 140 North Main Street, Hurricane Utah and on Friday, Jan. 23 at noon, prior to services at the Chapel.
• Interment will be in the Venice Cemetery.

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

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