(May 17, 1947 – March 11, 2014)

Joanne Burgess Hafen, age 66, passed away Tuesday, March 11, 2014. She was born May 17, 1947, the oldest child of Joseph Burton and Evelyn Selena Harrison Burgess. She married Wilford Leon Hafen on June 22, 1963, in St. George, Utah.

She spent much of her childhood at the Burgess Ranch near Pinto, Utah and her family moved back to St. George during the winter time so Joanne could attend school. She loved her time at the Ranch because she valued that time being so close to her grandparents and cousins. She loved fishing and being in the outdoors.

She met her sweetheart, Wilford, on the steps of the St. George Tabernacle. It was love at first sight, and they have been inseparable for the past 50 years. They are the parents of three children: Michelle, Melissa, and Brent. They were sealed as an eternal family in the St. George Temple on September 12, 1981. They raised their family in Ivins, Utah.

Joanne served in various callings in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints throughout her life but had a special fondness for teaching Primary. She loved the children in her Primary classes, and they loved her.

She is survived by her father, Joseph Burton Burgess of St. George, UT; her spouse, Wilford Leon Hafen of Ivins, UT; her children, Michelle Madsen (A. Eugene Madsen) of Ivins, UT, Melissa Jackson (Randall L Jackson) of Hurricane, UT and Brent Leon Hafen of Ivins, UT; 15 grandchildren, Sabrina Madsen, Miranda Sleeman (Brandon), Genae Christensen (Brett), Jordan Anne Healey (Jarom), Stacia Wahlgren (Dan), Cameron Hafen (Robin), Jace Jackson, McKensy Madsen, Melissa Madsen, Kaden Jackson, Kody Hafen, Kylee Jo Hafen, Remington Jackson, Colton Hafen, and Cheyenne Jackson; three great-grandchildren, Hailee Sleeman, Cache Christensen, and Rylee Sleeman; sisters, Kathy Christiansen (Wes) and Valynne Milne; brothers, Bruce Burgess (Lynda), Kevin Burgess, and Craig Burton Burgess. She is preceded in death by her mother, Evelyn Selena Burgess and her baby sister, Connie Burgess.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be Tuesday, March 18, 2014 at 11 a.m. in the Ivins Stake Center, 260 E. 1060 S., Ivins, UT.
• Friends may call Monday, March 17 from 6-8 p.m. at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff, St. George, UT, and also on Tuesday morning from 9-10:30 a.m. prior to services at the Stake Center.
• Interment will take place in the Santa Clara Cemetery.

Arrangements are made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454. Friends and family are invited to sign Joanne’s guestbook at www.spilsburymortuary.com.

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(April 8, 1947 – March 10, 2014)

Michael Robert Adams passed away peacefully on March 10, 2014. He was born in Salt Lake City, UT on April 8, 1947 to Jack & Dawna Adams. He was a United States Army Veteran & valiantly served in the Vietnam War. He received many awards for his service including the Bronze Star. He married Susan Hill & had one daughter, Aimee. He later met his loving wife Lori Hale & her two daughters Brandy and Dani. They married on December 14, 1995 & resided in the St. George area until they moved to Parowan, UT in 2006.

Throughout Mike’s life he worked in all fields of construction which led him to become his own boss as a General Contractor. Mike had a passion for building & a love for wood. He had immense talent in hand crafting custom hardwood furniture. He had a love of people, children, & dogs, especially his Irish Setters, but most recently his sweet Golden Retriever Lilly. He was famous for his humor, a lengthy list of one liners, & the nicknames he gave the ones he loved.

Mike is survived by his devoted wife Lori Adams of Parowan, UT, daughters Aimee Adams of St George, UT, Brandy Conklin of Parowan, UT, Danielle “Nannerbell” (Darek) Alonzo of St George, UT, brothers Jack Adams (Cheri) of Hillsboro, OR, Jeff Adams of Salt Lake City, UT, sisters Sandra Smith of Grand Junction, CO, Kathy (Steve) Lefler of Heber, UT, grandchildren Bobby, Jaze, Jonathan, Jocelyn, Justin, Dawson, & Ava, nieces, nephews, and many cherished friends. He was met in heaven by his father Jack Adams, mother Dawna Adams, & brother Mark Adams.

Funeral Services

• Graveside service will be held on Monday, March 17, 2014 at 1 p.m. at the Parowan Cemetery.

Online condolences can be left at www.swindlehurstfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers please donate in Mike’s honor to The Fisher House 690 S Valdez Rd Salt Lake City, UT 84148.

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(May 11, 1922 – March 14, 2014)

Alma (Al) Lewis Thomas, age 91, passed away March 14, 2014, in Ivins, Utah at the Southern Utah Veterans Home. He was born May 11, 1922, in Thistle, Utah to Lorenzo Lewis and Effie Lorena Pace Thomas.

Alma was raised and educated in South Gate, California. After graduating High School, Alma joined the Merchant Marines. He served until the end of World War II. Just before the war ended, in May of 1945, in the St. George LDS Temple, he married Julia Wilson of Hurricane, Utah.

The family moved to Salt Lake City, Utah, where Alma went to work for the Jordan School District at night while maintaining day jobs as well. In 1962, they moved to Colorado City, Arizona, while Alma continued working in Salt Lake City. In 1998 Alma retired and came home to be with his family.

Alma loved to tell stories and play jokes. He never complained in spite of numerous disabilities, and loved to read and study, especially church history. Alma was hardworking and dedicated to his family and will be deeply missed.

Surviving family include his children, Lorie, Marilyn, Pamela and Martha as well as numerous grandchildren, great and great great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his wife, Julia and son, Kenneth.

Funeral Services                          

• Funeral services will be held Sunday, March 16, 2014 at 1 p.m. in the Spilsbury Mortuary Chapel, 110 S. Bluff St., St. George, UT.
• There will be a viewing Sunday from 11 a.m. until time of services.
• Interment will take place in the Isaac Carling Memorial Park.

Arrangements are made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454. Friends and family are invited to sign Alma’s guestbook at www.spilsburymortuary.com.

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(February 15, 1937 – March 12, 2014)

Enriego “Rick” John Alcayaga, passed away March 12, 2014 in Santa Clara, UT. Rick was born February 15, 1937 to Juan E. and Maria DeCordero Alcayaga in Chicago, Illinois where he was raised.

He grew up in the 40’s and 50’s, a time when the country was growing fast and offering many career opportunities.

Early on, Rick realized a talent for Art. He worked at Western Electric as a draftsman for several years. After his U.S. Army service and discharge, he decided to pursue a career in the graphic arts field. In 1960, he enrolled and attended the Art Center College in Los Angeles. After several years of training, he took his first job with a small ad agency as a production artist.

The next decade saw Rick changing agencies in the country including Foote, Cone & Belding and Wayne Smith of Beverly Hills. His positions varied from Art Director to Ad Designer. He produced ads and ad campaigns for a wide variety of clients and products. He was rewarded creatively and economically with this profession.

In the early 80’s two life-impacting events occurred. First, he married his love, Gwen, whom he said gave him the most important, meaningful happiness in his life. And, second, he started RA Graphics, his own Art Service. In 1993, both Rick and his wife Gwen retired from work and moved to St. George, an area they both loved for its beauty, active lifestyle and friendliness.

Rick loved athletics and was always involved in sports. He loved Softball, Bowling and Golf, as did Gwen. This area couldn’t have been better suited for both of them. He was an active participant in the Huntsman Senior Games and won a worthy share of medals.

Other notes on Rick’s life are that he loved motorcycle touring, as did Gwen. He was a member of the Elks for several years. He enjoyed Chess and was a member of the St. George Chess Club. His art skills earned him two notable awards of recognition during his life, a CA Award of Excellence in 1965 and a N.Y. Retailer’s award for sales impact in 1971, both very prestigious compliments.

Rick had many friends throughout his life. He treasured them all. He requested the following message be included in this notice: “To all my friends. I want to thank you for your friendship, your support, your encouragement. You have enriched my life beyond measure and I hope my presence in your lives has been of value as well. In my last few years, it was memories of times we shared that brought me great comfort. Thanks, again, and maybe we’ll meet on the other side.”

Funeral Services

• There will be a visitation with the family on Monday, March 17, 2014 from 6-7 p.m. at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff St., St. George, UT.
• Graveside services will be Thursday, March 20, 2014 at 1 p.m. (PST) in the Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills Cemetery, Los Angeles, CA.

Arrangements are under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, St. George, UT. Family and friends are invited to sign Rick’s guest book at www.spilsburymortuary.com.

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(July 17, 1935 – March 17, 2014)

Belva Jane (BJ) Kidd Mitchell of Washington passed away March 17, 2014. She was born to proud parents Jerome and Gladys Kidd in Santa Ana, California on July 17, 1935. Raised in Southern California, BJ married Grant Seymour Mitchell on June 16th, 1961, in the Los Angeles Temple. Her greatest treasures in life were her three sons Michael (Wendie), Robert (Erin), Darrin (Nicole), step-daughter Gail, six grandchildren, one grandson-in-law, and one great-grandson.

BJ attended BYU. She was proud to have decorated over 100 wedding cakes. She worked as an elementary school aide for 15 years and performed family history indexing for 20 years. Most precious callings, however, were being a wife, mother, and grandmother.

BJ had a full life of serving others in the community and held several church callings. Many will remember her for her sense of humor and her readiness to celebrate life. For BJ, there was always a reason to have a party. 

Funeral Services

• Funeral Services will be held at the Washington 1st Ward, 82 N Main St., Washington, Utah, on Friday, March 21, 2014, at 11 a.m.
• Friends may come to call Thursday, March 20, 2014, from 6-8 p.m. at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff St., St. George, UT, and also March 21, 2014, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to the services.
• Interment will take place at the Washington City Cemetery.

Arrangements are made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary. Friends and Family are invited to sign BJ’s guestbook at www.spilsburymortuary.com.

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(March 16, 2014 – June 5, 1919)

Thomas Stanley Steffan, age 94, passed away on March 16, 2014 in St. George, Utah. He was born June 5, 1919 in Wyandotte, Michigan to Stanley and Viola Klebba Steffan. He married Edith Mildred Carlson in Long Beach, California on December 17, 1939.

Funeral Services

• Graveside services will be held Friday, March 21, 2014 at 11 a.m. in the Tonaquint Cemetery, 1777 S. Dixie Dr., St. George, UT.

Arrangements are made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454. Friends and family are invited to sign Thomas’ guestbook at www.spilsburymortuary.com.

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(September 5, 1951 – March 17, 2014)

Our beloved father, brother, grandfather and uncle, Gregory Cecil Rasmussen passed away March 17, 2014. He was born September 5, 1951 in Salt Lake City, Utah to Cecil Ray and Norma Irene Shepard Rasmussen.

Funeral Services

• Close friends and family are invited to attend Memorial services on Saturday, March 22, 2014 at 11 a.m. in the Spilsbury Hurricane Valley Mortuary, 25 North 2000 West, Hurricane, UT.

Arrangements are under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary 435-673-2454. Family and friends are invited to sign Gregory’s guest book at www.spilsburymortuary.com.

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(September 3, 1932 – March 17, 2014)

St. George, Utah – Ruth Shirleen Day Gappmayer, 81, passed away Monday, March 17, 2014.  She was born September 3, 1932 in Ephraim, Utah to Cecil Day and Luetta Peterson.  She married Louis Bartl Gappmayer on June 18, 1952 in the Salt Lake City Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  She was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years who passed on December 18, 2013.  The end of their brief separation is a welcome blessing.

Shirleen spent her childhood in Kenilworth, Utah and moved with her family to Provo, Utah when she was in the sixth grade.  She was a graduate of Brigham Young University High School in Provo, Utah.  Shirleen and Lou spent the first third of their married life in Fremont, California.  There Shirleen became a licensed foster mother and welcomed over 100 babies into her home and heart.  In 1971 they moved to Bozeman, Montana where they spent the second third of their married life and Shirleen became known for her organizational skills; served in several Relief Society Presidencies; and worked for many of these years as the office manager for medical practices in Bozeman.  Lou and Shirleen retired to St. George in 1995, four years after a devastating automobile accident left Shirleen with multiple injuries.  She was cared for by her loving and devoted husband for the past 22 years.

Shirleen is survived by her brother Hal Day of Orem, Utah and her sister Betty Day Hale of Johnson, Kansas.  Lou and Shirleen have four living children: Linda Gappmayer Reed of Bakersfield, CA; Mark Samuel Gappmayer of Peoria, IL; Paul Cecil Gappmayer of Bakersfield, CA; and Charles Roy Gappmayer of Bozeman, MT.  Her posterity also includes 15 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff Street, St. George, UT on Saturday, March 22, at 10 a.m.
• There will be a viewing at Spilsbury Mortuary on Saturday morning from 9:00-9:45.

The family wishes to express deep gratitude to the staff of Dixie Hospice and Seasons Health and Rehabilitation for outstanding care and kindness.

Arrangements are made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454. Friends and family are invited to sign Shirleen’s guestbook at www.spilsburymortuary.com.

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(April 18, 1940 – March 17, 2014)

Neal Martin Lundberg Jr. (Marty), age 73, passed on March 17, 2014. He was born April 18, 1940 to Olga Wilkins and Neal Lundberg in St. George, UT at the McGregor Hospital.

He married Vikki Miller on Oct. 28, 1959. They later divorced. He was blessed with his two lovely daughters. Neal and Sandi (Randall) married on Dec. 1, 1980 and have been constant companions since.

Neal grew up and attended school in Dixie. In High School, Neal lettered in football in 1957, he graduated in 1958. Upon graduation, Neal moved to Las Vegas and continued working for Pepsi Cola. When his Dad retired from Dixie Bottling and sold to Pepsi Cola, Neal Jr. jumped at the opportunity to come back home and take over. Neal then retired from Pepsi and he and Sandi purchased Tropic Ice. They retired in 2008 in hopes to finally build and spend time in Pinto.

Neal believed in granting many people second chances and helping them out. He had a special place in his big heart for the handicapped, and loved animals. Neal was a True and Loyal friend.

Neal is survived by his wife, Sandi of St. George; daughters, Lori (Danny) Montgomery of St. George Jacquie Lundberg of Las Vegas; 5 grandchildren, Robert (Misty), Cameron (Jessica), Chase (Torri),  and JD Montgomery, and Jessica (Ronnie) Limb; 11 great-grandchildren, Aspen, Travis, Jacob, Dodge, Cole, Avery, Kody, Zailon, Kamri, Aria, Skyy; sisters, Carol Stokes, Susan (Larry) Hutchings; mother-in-law, sisters-in-law, brother-in-law; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be Saturday, March 22, 2014 at noon at the St. George Stake Center, 591 W. 500 N., St. George, UT.
• There will be a viewing Friday evening from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff, and also on Saturday from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at the Stake Center.
• Interment will take place in the St. George City Cemetery.

Arrangements are made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454. Friends and family are invited to sign Neal’s guestbook at www.spilsburymortuary.com.

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(November 28, 1936 – March 17, 2014)

Lois Rae Yocom Berry, born November 28, 1936 in Pasadena, CA to Clara Burgener and Stephen T. Yocom.  She passed away at 4:45 p.m. March 17, 2014 in St George, UT.

Lois attended Public schools in Alhambra, CA.  She Graduated High School at Mark Keppel High School. She also attended East Los Angeles Jr. College for two years.

Lois is the youngest of four children, Stephen, Emma, Lawrence, and Lois.  They were all raised in Alhambra Los Angeles County, CA.  She was the last of the children living from this family.

Lois met the Stake missionaries and was baptized in the Alhambra, CA Ward building Oct.30, 1954.  She received her Endowments in the Los Angeles Temple on May 18, 1957.  She Married Hilburn [Bill] Berry Aug 21, 1971.  Lois and Bill were Sealed in the Los Angeles Temple.  She is the mother of two sons.

After her marriage Lois and Bill lived in Ridgcrest, CA for 20 years.

Lois had compassion and love for people, especially her family.  She gave of her time and means.  She is a giver, not a taker.  Farewell Love, until we meet again.

Funeral Services

• Funeral Services will be held on Monday March 24, 2014 at the LDS church located at 1222 East Brigham Road, St George, Utah  at 11 a.m.
• There will be a viewing prior to services from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m.

Arrangements are under the care of Heideman Hughes Mortuary-435-674-5000.

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(September 25, 1927 – March 19, 2014)

Billy was born 86 years ago in Provo, Utah, to Raymond Virgil Dixon and Grace Price Dixon.  Historians might like to know that Billy’s great grandparents were James William Nixon and Johanna Schultz Nixon, who were sent to St. George in 1866.

Billy grew up in Utah, Nevada and California.  He graduated from Polytechnic High School in San Francisco.  He received his Bachelor’s degree in History from San Francisco State University.  He was working on his Master’s degree when he was called back into active service during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Billy always wanted to fly, so when the Air Corp started recruiting pilots in 1948, Billy enlisted.  He received his wings in 1949 flying B-29’s.  In Korea, he flew F-80 jets, was shot down, rescued, and received a Purple Heart.

He stayed in the Air Force and fought in Vietnam.  At the time of his retirement, he had the most combat missions of anyone in active service.  After Vietnam, he was selected to serve with Strategic Air Command and flew B52’s with atomic bombs aboard.  This was during the Cuban Missile Crisis.  Billy received many medals and citations for his military service.  He retired in 1975, but not from flying.  He continued to own his own plane for 17 years.

In 1952, he married Evelyn Smith.  They and their children traveled the world and saw many different and interesting places during their years in the Air Force.  They were divorced in 1973.

In 1996, after his 50^th high school reunion, Billy married his former high school sweetheart, Joyce Shotsberger. They settled in St. George where they lived for 15 years.

His love of flying was only exceeded by his love for his family.  Billy is survived by his five children: Steven, Michael, William, Catherine, James, step-son Paul Shotsberger and nine grandchildren.

Billy had a great sense of humor and was always joking right until the end.  One of his favorite sayings came for an old tombstone.  It read, “He wondered, he wondered, he wondered, and …. now he knows.”

The family’s appreciation goes out to Dixie Regional Hospital, the staff and CNAs at Sterling Court, and Applegate Home Health and Hospice.  They all went out of their way to make Billy and his family feel comfortable, loved and cared for.

Billy was fond of all animals, especially cats. Any memorial gifts should be made to the animal rescue mission at “One More Chance,” c/o Kris Neal, 2127 South 1400 East, St. George, UT  84790.

Funeral Services

• Memorial services will be held Saturday, March 22, at noon at Sterling Court.
• A viewing will be held Saturday afternoon from 4-5 p.m. at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff, St. George, UT.

Arrangements are made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454. Friends and family are invited to sign Billy’s guestbook at www.spilsburymortuary.com.

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Harold ‘Dan’ Seymour passed away on March 17, 2014 at age 90 ½ in Ivins, Utah.  He was born in Munising Michigan in 1923.  Dan was Lydia and Lawrence Seymour’s oldest child of 9.  He lived 87 years in Kalamazoo Michigan and the last 3 ½ years in Utah near his daughter.

Dan was a WWII combat veteran.  He served his country in the South Pacific campaigns of New Caledonia, Guadalcanal, New Guinea, Luzon, Baguio and Tokyo Japan.   Dan was 5′ 3″ tall and weighed 135 lbs.  His nick name was Sergeant Pee Wee because of his height.

After Dan’s tour of duty he returned to Kalamazoo Michigan.  He met his future wife at a local roller skating rink and dated for 1 year before they were married.  Harold and Gertrude had one daughter, Arlene and a son, Harold Jr.  Harold Jr. passed away at 4 days old.  Gertrude preceded Dan in death.

Dan worked as a lab technician for several paper mills in Michigan. He retired from Georgia Pacific paper mill.  He was also an entrepreneur and started several businesses while working at the paper mills.  They included a car wash/seat cover shop, bicycle shop, appliance store, used car lot, pizza restaurant and printing shop.

Dan loved boating, flying and motorcycling.  He owned several boats, motorcycles and an airplane.  Dan had many hobbies and interests.  He loved people and made friends everywhere he went.  His great-grandchildren called him ‘The Candy Grandpa’ because he always had candy for them.

Dan is survived by his daughter two granddaughters, three great grandchildren, three sisters and one brother and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral Service

• A memorial gathering will be held in St. George Utah on March 25 at Heideman Hughes Mortuary located at 1037 East 700 South, St George, UT from 6-8 p.m.
• Additional Services will be in Kalamazoo Michigan in June.

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(May 03, 1952 – March 15, 2014)

Darcia Childress, age 61, passed away at home Saturday, March 15^th, 2014. She was born May 3^rd, 1952 in Moline, Ill. to Carl and Norma Aten. They later moved to sunny California where she enjoyed her youth. She later met and married William “Bill” Childress. They raised their children in Whittier, California until they felt a need for  change and desired a slower pace of life to raise their teenagers. They loaded a U-Haul and started driving till they hit St. George, Utah on a very hot Pioneer Day in July of 1992.  St. George has been their home for the past 21 years. Darcia has been Bill’s “Sweetie” for the past 38 years.

Many people knew Darcia for her talent as a master crafter. She could turn a piece of plain wood into whatever she came up with. She cut, sanded, & painted her heart out for many years. She really enjoyed when she owned her different boutique shops here in St. George & Washington City.

When her children were younger she was always the first to volunteer as PTA President, Den Mother, Room Mom, and she always had such fun birthday parties, which on occasion included her dressed up as a clown. Mom also loved performing her puppet shows when her children were younger and loved to bring happiness to so many children. Darcia was so creative and always had the best imagination and fun ideas. She loved sitting at the beach for hours and hours just watching her children play in the ocean.

Mom had a special group of “California friends” (Mary, Deb, Barbara, Nancy, Boyana, Pam, and many others). She loved their annual ornament parties, birthday lunches (oh the many, many lunches), putting on boutiques, and just being surrounded by such wonderful friends that she always seemed to keep laughing. She always had someone to call and talk on the phone with for hours.

Darcia was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Norma Aten; her special sister Carla; and son, Sean Childress. Darcia is survived by her husband, the rock that has always been by her side, William “Bill” Childress; sister, Lynette Hopkins; daughter, Stacy (Sam) Heaton; Granddaughters, Savannah, Housten, Tess, Ellee, Nicail, and Callie. She also had one grandson, Jordan.

Funeral Services

• A Graveside service will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2014 at the Washington City Cemetery at 1 p.m. under the direction of Heideman & Hughes Mortuary, 435-674-5000.

Bill and Stacy would like to express their sincere gratitude to Dr. Warner for the countless hours of compassion and care that he has shown to Mom over the years. She really enjoyed getting you to smirk. Also Dr. Roy and his wonderful staff at Dixie

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(March 6, 1970 – March 10, 2014)

David Sweatt passed away on March 10, 2014 in the beauty of the desert that he loved under a clear night sky with millions of stars to guide his journey home. David was an avid hiker, photographer, off-road ridge runner and disc golfer. He was also a talented programmer and lover of music with an encyclopedic knowledge of American music and a special love for New Orleans and Delta Blues. He shared this knowledge on local radio station KTIM on his show Dixielands.

David was born in Mobile, Alabama on March 6, 1970 where got his love for the Gulf Coast, the music of the region and all things Mardi Gras. He earned both Bachelor and Masters of Science degrees in Information Technology from the University of South Alabama, where he worked for several years after graduation and was previously a Distinguished Honor Graduate of the U.S. Army.

It was during his time in the Army where he served at Fort Irwin in the Mojave Desert that he found is love for the beauty, color and wide open spaces of the desert southwest and devoted his time to exploring as much of it as he could.

David’s journey since leaving Mobile lead him to IT jobs for colleges in Texas, Utah, the Navajo Nation in Arizona, and most recently as IT Analyst for the State of Utah Board of Education.

David leaves behind a wife Carol Bold and a young son Eli Sage Sweatt of St. George, a son David Troi Sweatt of Florida, a daughter Rhiannon Daphnei Sweatt of Alabama, her fiancé John Lipscomb and their daughter Elleahna Lipscomb. He is also survived by his mother Verna Lee Retherford of Panama City, his father David Eugene Sweatt of Irvington, Alabama, and many siblings and cousins, primarily on the Gulf Coast.

He is in the thoughts and prayers of family and friends who all grieve his passing.

Funeral Services

• Memorial services will be held in Mobile, Alabama and Saint George, Utah.
• His Saint George family welcomes all who were touched by his life to a memorial service to be held on Saturday, March 29, at noon at 361 North Main, where we will remember, mourn and celebrate Dave’s unique spirit.

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(June 4, 1925 – March 21, 2014)

David Spencer (Spence) Esplin passed away March 21, 2014. Born June 4, 1925 to Raymond David and Lucy Heaton Esplin in Orderville, Utah, he married Olive Brooks on November 27, 1946 in the St. George Temple. Their life together was the great American love story.

Spence grew up in Little Tanks, on the Arizona Strip, where from an early age he herded sheep. One of the last living graduates of the Little Tanks Elementary School, he rode a horse to the one room school and built the fire to heat it.  After graduating from Dixie High School, he joined the Navy. He served on the USS Iowa during WWII.

Spence worked as the assistant postmaster in the St. George Post Office until his retirement in 1980.  Always active in the LDS Church, He served as ward clerk, Stake Young Men’s President, high councilor and as a scout master. At 29, he served as the St. George 6^th Ward Bishop. Spence received the Silver Beaver, one of scouting’s’ highest honors. With his friend, Jim Wade, he hiked the hills around St. George, discovering Indian artifacts, hunting, fishing and enjoying the outdoors. He collected coins and stamps, developed talent as a photographer and writer. An inveterate storyteller, Spence chronicled his unique experiences growing up on the Strip telling about folks he knew and experiences he had. Spence was a friend to man, observing the needs of others and he worked to serve them.

He is survived by his wife Olive Brooks; his sister, Hilma Holt; his sons, Nick (Judy Owen) of Vacaville, CA, Deg of Salt Lake, Tyler (Patti Reed) of Enterprise;  his daughters, Stefinee (Fred Pinnegar) of Orem, Fran (Wayne Stucki) and Misty  of St. George; and 15 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Norma Lang and his son Kiplin Max. He was a devoted husband, father, uncle, and friend.

The family wishes to express gratitude to Jen and Tammy from Dixie Hospice who were kind, loving and caring.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 29, 2014 at 11 a.m. in the Flood Street LDS Chapel, 85 S. 400 E., St. George.
• There will be a viewing Friday evening from 4-6 p.m. at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff and also on Saturday morning prior to services from 9:30-10:30 a.m.
• Interment will take place in the St. George City Cemetery.

Arrangements are made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454. Friends and family are invited to sign Spence’s guestbook at www.spilsburymortuary.com.

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(November 22, 1940 – March 19, 2014)

David Lyle Neil, 73, returned to his Father in Heaven on March 19, 2014. David was born in Idaho Falls, Idaho on November 22, 1940. He was the oldest son of Lyle F. Neil and Margaret Conrad Neil who preceded him in death. David graduated from Bountiful High School and SLC Trade Tech in carpentry. David was currently a high priest in the Green Valley Seventh Ward and faithfully served in his calling and assignments to the end.

His only living aunt, Willa Harding, his brother, James C. Neil, 4 nieces, 4 nephews, their spouses and 15 children, cousins and their extended family’s survive David.

The family would like to thank the health care professionals at Dixie Regional Medical Center and the Hurricane Health and Rehabilitation Center for their compassionate and caring services to David during his illness.

Funeral Services

• Family and friends may call at the Green Valley Seventh Ward Chapel, 1282 W. 500 S. Circle, St. George, Utah, Friday, March 28, 2014 from 1:30-2:30 p.m.
• Funeral services will follow at 3 p.m.
• Interment and graveside services will be at the Bountiful City Cemetery, Saturday, March 29, at 2 p.m.

Arrangements are made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454. Friends and family are invited to sign David’s guestbook at www.spilsburymortuary.com.

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(July 17, 1968 – March 24, 2014)

Erin Mickelson Walldorf left her earthly life on Monday, March 24, 2014.    She was born on July 17, 1968 as the eldest daughter of Weldon and Julie Mickelson, currently of St. George, Utah.   Raised in Flagstaff, Arizona, she graduated from Coconino High School, and attended Yavapai Community College, where she graduated with a degree in Medical Assistant training.  She married Todd Walldorf in 1990, and was blessed with two beautiful children, Jakob, 17, and Hayden, 12 who currently reside in Toledo, Ohio with their father.

Erin’s passion in life was helping others.  She loved comforting and entertaining her clients in nursing homes with her contagious laughter and caring demeanor.  Until her passing, she was employed with the Washington County Schools assisting with special needs children.

She is survived by her parents, Weldon Mickelson and Julie Mickelson, sisters Amy Schafer (Brian), Elyse Dustman (John), and brother Blake Mickelson.  She is also mourned by her wonderful grandmother, Glenna Mickelson, as well as several aunts, uncles, and cousins on both sides of her family.  She also leaves her former in-laws, Ted and Marilyn Walldorf.

Funeral Services

• A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, March 28, from 6-7:30 p.m. at Heideman Hughes Mortuary, 1037 East 700 South St. George, Utah 84790.

Arrangements under the direction of Heideman Hughes Mortuary, 435-674-5000.

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(January 22, 1950 – March 26, 2014)

Kevin B Crawford was born January 22, 1950 in Cedar City, UT to Edra Barlow and George Cleo Crawford. He was the fourth child of six children. He married Janet Jolley on December 6, 1974 in the Provo Temple. He completed his mortal journey on March 26, 2014.

He is preceded in death by his parents. He leaves behind his wife, Janet, his five sons, Brian (Karie), Jeremy (Tina), Paul (Tammy), Michael, Steven, his daughter, Christie (Zac) and 12.5 grandchildren as well as brothers Gerald and Eldon, and sisters, Mary Ellen Wilson, Donnene Mathews, and Jill Langston. 

He spent his youth in Enterprise. Upon graduation from EHS he enrolled at SUSC, served a northern Texas mission, and then went back to college where he met his sweetheart, graduating with an accounting degree. He worked in accounting in Las Vegas and Texas before creating a partnership with his father and brother in farming. He served 25 years as Postmaster of Colorado City, AZ. Upon retirement, his wife accompanied him in serving as missionaries in Michigan and then amongst the Spanish speaking of southern UT. 

The family would like to thank all of our friends, family, neighbors and healthcare professionals who have been so kind to Kevin.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be at noon, Monday, March 31 at the Hurricane Heritage Chapel, 1178 S. 700 W. in Hurricane.
• A viewing will be held Mondaymorning prior to services from 9:30-11:30 a.m.
• Interment under the direction of Heideman Hughes Mortuary will follow at Hurricane City Cemetery.

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(April 21, 1922 – March 29, 2014)

Belve Roundy Gollaher, age 91, passed away March 29, 2014 in Hurricane, Utah. She was born April 21, 1922, in Kanab, Utah to Myron Ervin and Hannah Elizabeth Heaton Roundy.

Belva was born in Kanab and raised in Alton, Utah. In 1938, the family moved to St. George, Utah, where Belva graduated from High School and attended Dixie Jr. College. During the summers she worked at Ruby’s Inn and Bryce Canyon. Ruby’s Inn is where ElRoy proposed to Belva. They were married on Oct. 13, 1941 in Santa Clara, Utah. Their marriage was later solemnized April 15, 1942 in the St. George LDS Temple. Belva was the light of ElRoy’s life. He loved her so very much.

Belva loved hunting and especially fishing with ElRoy and her family. She enjoyed gardening, flowers, and crocheting.  She also enjoyed music and played the piano, guitar and the organ.

Belva was very active in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She served faithfully her entire life. After her husband’s death in 1982, Belva served a Sisters Mission to Florida.

Belva was lovable, patient, understanding and gentle. She was charitable, always helping her family and neighbors. She will be dearly missed by her family, friends and neighbors.

Surviving family include her children, Belva Daris (Charles) Davis of LaVerkin, UT, Mary Elizabeth (Philip) Carnes of St. David, AZ, and Delbert Aaron (Emily) Gollaher of Washington, UT; 13 Grandchildren, 8 Great-grandchildren and 5 Great great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, ElRoy Monroe Gollaher; sons, ElRoy Monroe Gollaher Jr., two brothers, Wallace Aaron and Elmer Roundy; and two sisters, Lorea Roundy and Areta Stewart.

Funeral Services

• Funeral services will be held Friday, April 4, 2014 at 11 a.m. in the Washington Main Street Chapel, 82 North Main, Washington, UT.
• There will be a viewing Thursday evening from 6-8 p.m. at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff, St. George, and also on Friday morning from 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to services at the church.
• Interment will take place in the Washington City Cemetery.

Arrangements are made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 435-673-2454. Friends and family are invited to sign Belva’s guestbook at www.spilsburymortuary.com.

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