Aug. 31, 1925 — Aug. 13, 2017

Delbert “Dell” U. Brinkerhoff, 91, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, Aug. 13, 2017, in St. George. He was born Aug. 31, 1925, in McCormick, Utah, to Wendell D. and Stella Ethel Hutchings Brinkerhoff.

He graduated from Millard High School in 1943. He was drafted and served his country during WWII as an M.P., he was honorably discharged in 1946. Dell was an avid outdoorsman, he loved baseball, and also coached Little League..

Dell married Janice Johnson in 1957, they later divorced. He then met and married the love of his life, Brigitte Rohling on Jan. 1, 1992. Dell and Janice had 4 children, Kerry, Michael, Debbie and Karen. Brigitte brought 4 daughters, Merrilynn, Cheryl, Elayne and Diana into their marriage. Brigitte and Dell were married for 25 years, their marriage was solemnized in the Las Vegas Temple on Aug. 4, 1995.

He is survived by his wife, Brigitte; his four children and four step-children; 13 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren; sisters, Pearl (Junior) Robison, Golda (Dale) Allgood and Ginger (Larry) Mikesell; and brother, Fay (Wanda) Brinkerhoff. He will be greatly missed.

The family would like to thank the IHC nursing staff for their loving care and support.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held Friday, Aug. 18, at 11 a.m. at the Spilsbury Mortuary Chapel, 110 S. Bluff, St. George.
• There will be a viewing prior to services Friday, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the mortuary.
• Interment will take place in the Tonaquint Cemetery.

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

For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit Spilsbury Mortuary online.

Dec. 14, 1928 — Aug. 12, 2017

On a late fall day in 1928, in the shadow of Virgin’s willows and cottonwood trees, Doris was welcomed into the arms of her loving parents Karl and Lenora Barney Spendlove. A little more than a stone’s throw away, the Virgin River flowed, bringing life to the seemingly inhospitable barren landscape of Virgin, Utah. Just a few steps away from there on Water Street, Doris would grow into a beautiful woman surrounded by her mom and dad and nine siblings. Life here in this pocket of the Virgin River was never easy as the world might see it, but love and family always thrived.

Within that small home in 1947, Doris would gleefully tell her family that Clair had asked her to be his bride. Their marriage was solemnized in the St. George Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, setting a lifelong pattern of service to their Creator and Savior.

Just like the life-giving Virgin River, Doris spent a lifetime coaxing and nurturing life and beauty from the barren landscapes of Virgin, La Verkin and Las Vegas. Doris always displayed the special ability to create life and beauty from some of the most unsuspecting places, whether it be her delicate roses and lilacs, or her vegetable garden. But Doris’s most prized achievement was her family. Along with Clair, her eternal companion of nearly 69 years, Doris raised their wonderful family of five children.

Just a year and a half ago, Clair bid his sweetheart Doris farewell for a season. On Aug. 12, 2017, Doris this time bid farewell to the loved ones surrounding her for a season, and once again entered the arms of Clair.

Doris loved her family. She loved the little corner of heaven that she and Clair built together. She loved spending her final years in their dream home in Washington. She was a dear wife, mother, grandma and friend. The lives she touched are immeasurable.

So, until we meet again mom, we will miss you.

Doris is preceded in death by her sweetheart, Clair Ruesch; her parents, Karl and Lenora Barney Spendlove; her siblings: Melva, Mildred, Rowena, Roland, Linden and Etta. She is survived by her siblings: Eugene (Frances), Waldo (Winnie) and Priscilla (Varl); her five children: Terry Lanier, Kathy Harris (Steve), Jackie Stocks (Bill), Gayla Ruesch and Reymond Ruesch (Cheryl Ann); in addition to grandchildren: Shaun, Julianna, Vanessa, Zachary, Jeremiah, Aaron, Hillary, Oren, Anna, Willie, Mary Ellen, Nikolas, Benjamin, Alexander and many great grandchildren.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held Saturday, Aug. 19, at 11 a.m. at the Washington Stake Center, 486 E. Mangum Road, Washington, Utah.
• Visitations will be held Friday evening from 6-8 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 W. St. George Blvd. and Saturday, prior to services, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the Stake Center.
• Interment will be at the Virgin Pioneer Memorial Cemetery around 1 p.m. on Saturday, after which family and friends are invited to return to the Washington Stake center for lunch.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, 435-673-4221.

For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit Metcalf Mortuary online.  

Feb. 4, 1929 — Aug. 10, 2017

Kay George Stucki, 88, passed away peacefully in his home on Aug. 10, 2017. He was born Feb. 4, 1929, in Ivins, the third son of Rulon and Grace Stucki. He married ElLouise Mickelson on Feb. 10, 1951, in the St. George Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Kay is survived by his wife of 66 years, ElLouise; his children: Brenda (Michael) Howey, Dale (Evelin), Mary Ann (Richard) Simmons, John (Wendy) and Mark (Stacy); brothers: Max (Theresa) and Brent (Linda); 24 grandchildren; and 57 great-grandchildren.

Kay was preceded in death by his parents; daughter Terrilyn (Michael) Gifford; brother Wayne; sister Joan (Jim) Truman; one grandson; and two great grandsons.

Funeral services

• Graveside services will be held Saturday, Aug. 19, at 10 a.m. at the Santa Clara City Cemetery, Santa Clara, Utah.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, 435-673-4221.

For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit Metcalf Mortuary online.  

Aug. 10, 1922 — Aug. 15, 2017

Lehman Eugene “Gene” Shawler, 95, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, Aug. 15, 2017. He was born Aug. 10, 1922, in Youngstown, Illinois, to Leo J. and Mabel L. Shawler.

Gene moved to Monmouth, Illinois, in 1928. He proudly served his country during WWII in the 507th Bomb Squadron, 333rd Group. He was honorably discharged in 1946.

In 1939, Gene moved to Long Beach, California. He married Betty Lorraine McKee on July 4, 1941. They had three children: Terry, Linda and Bill.

Gene was a gifted carpenter and enjoyed ocean fishing. He was a member of the Long Beach Tuna Club and received many awards during his fishing days.

Gene is survived by his children: Terry, Linda and Bill; and his sister, Shirley. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and friends, who all loved him dearly.

Services

• Graveside services with Military Honors will be held Saturday, Aug. 19 at 9:00 a.m. at Tonaquint Cemetery, 1777 S. Dixie Drive, St. George.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, 435-673-4221.

For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit Metcalf Mortuary online.   

Oct. 11, 1920 — Aug. 15, 2017

Melvin LaMar ‘Mel’ Brewer passed from this life on Tuesday, Aug. 15, 2017. He was 96 years old and was born Oct. 11, 1920, to Silas M. and Sophie Stevens Brewer in what is now South Salt Lake, Utah, the ninth of 10 children. He was the last surviving member of that family.

Mel graduated from South High School in Salt Lake City in 1936. He married Virginia Evelyn Plant in June 1939, and together they had five children. After living in Salt Lake City for 46 years, they moved to St. George in 1985.

Virginia died in March 1995. Mel married Beth Madsen in June 1996. She died in March 2002. Mel married Phyllis Overlade Vowles in August 2003. She also preceded him in death October 2013. In each of his marriages, Mel willingly took on the role of tender caregiver.

Mel served in the Army during World War II from 1944 to 1946 in the Pacific area, including the Philippine Islands and during the occupation of Japan. He achieved the rank of technical sergeant. Upon returning home, Mel began his career as a salesman, one much valued by his clients for his unwavering integrity. When not working hard to provide for his young family, Mel used his carpentry skills to build everything from bookshelves to an entire house.

Mel was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a high priest. Among his many callings, he served two missions, one in the Los Angeles Temple Visitors’ Center and the second in the St. George LDS temple. A beloved teacher of many gospel topics, he particularly enjoyed teaching gospel doctrine and the high priests group.

Mel was a resident of the Southern Utah Veterans Home for over three years, where he served on the resident council and made friends with everyone who met him.

Mel leaves behind his daughters Betsy (Joseph) Jenkins, Linda (David) Szelowski, Gladys (Michael) Marietti, son Mervin (Sandra) Brewer, sisters-in-law Lou Gerbig and Pauline Abbott. His beloved son Marvin died in 1975. He has 36 grandchildren, 18-plus extended grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren. Mel was proud of his posterity and his extended family, which he always said totaled over 100.

Funeral services

• Viewing will be held from 1-2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 19, at the LDS Heritage Park Chapel, 290 E. 1060 South, Ivins.
• Funeral services to follow from 2-3 p.m. at the same location.
• Interment to follow in the St. George City Cemetery.
• For those unable to attend the funeral, there will be a Memorial Service on Sunday, Aug. 20, from 1-2 p.m. at the Southern Utah Veterans Home, 160 N. 200 East, Ivins.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of  Serenity Funeral Home.

For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit  Serenity Funeral Home online.

May 5, 1947 — Aug. 15, 2017

Alvin Dexter Marble, 70, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 15, 2017, in St. George. He was born May 5, 1947, to Gilbert Bushhead and Dorothy Marble in St. George.

Alvin attended school in Washington County. He was a member of the Shivwits Band of Paiutes. Alvin was raised on the Shivwits Reservation by his grandparents James and Bertha Marble while his mother was working in Woodland Hills, California.

Alvin knew the aspects of hard work. He worked for Coopers Rest Haven, Boots Cox Dairy (that was located on 700 South), with his grandfather at the turkey farm, Denny’s, the Forest Service and was the plant operator at the Apex Mine.

In the 1980s, Alvin was the chairman for the Shivwits Band. He loved his Paiute people and claimed to serve them the best he knew how. Alvin was a traditional bird singer. He served the Paiute Indian Tribe with his traditional bird singing, which he learned from his grandfather.

Alvin was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

He is survived by his sisters, Verdie Marble (Joel Bushhead, Jr.), Janet Bushhead; brother, Dudley Bushhead; and aunt, Jackie Hill; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gilbert B. and Dorothy Marble; grandparents, James and Bertha Marble, one sister, Sandra Bushhead; one brother, Elliot Bushhead, and a niece, Desiree Lynn Pikyavit.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held Monday, Aug. 21, at 11 a.m. at the Spilsbury Mortuary Chapel, 110 S. Bluff Street, St. George.
• There will be a viewing Monday prior to services from 9:30-10:30 p.m. at the mortuary.
• Interment will take place at the Shivwits Cemetery.

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

For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit Spilsbury Mortuary online.

March 1, 1950 — Aug. 17, 2017

Sandi L. Rockwell, 67, passed away Thursday, Aug. 17. She was born on March 1, 1950, in El Monte, California, to Darlene Sisson and Harry L. Drake Jr. She married Steve L. Rockwell on Aug. 18, 1990, in Reno, Nevada.

She is survived by her husband, Steve Rockwell of Hurricane; her children, Sherrie Balthis (Kevin) of Menifee, California, Anthony Kirby (Sabra) of Las Vegas, Nevada, Eric Schuetz (Valerie) of Quakertown, Pennsylvania; 9 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren; and her sister, Linda Gabbert of Las Vegas, Nevada. She is preceded in death by her parents.

The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses of ICU at Intermountain Hospital for taking such great care of Sandi.

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

For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit Spilsbury Mortuary online.

March 14, 1933 — Aug. 12, 2017

Shirley Lowe Anderson, age 84, passed away quietly on Aug. 12, at the Red Cliffs Health and Rehabilitation Center in St. George.

She was born on March 14, 1933, in Fairfield, Idaho, to Lynn and Rosella Lowe. Most of her youth was spent in Willard with her two sisters, Carol and Jean, and her little brother, Joe. On March 19, 1955, she married the love of her life, S. Victor Anderson and spent many happy years with him on his construction jobs throughout the state of Utah. He preceded her in death on August 9, 1994. In 1996, she moved to St. George where she spent her remaining years.

Shirley was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses on Aug. 28, 1969, and served her God, Jehovah, faithfully until her death. She loved going out in the ministry and telling people about God’s Kingdom and the wonderful hope we have for living again on a beautiful paradise earth where she will be reunited with her loved ones who passed on before her. Shirley loved to bake and was well known for her wonderful breads and especially her famous fudge.

She was preceded in death by her sister Carol Barker of Willard. She is survived by her sister Jean Ward of Fort Collins, Colorado, and her brother Joe of Lubbock, Texas, and by many family members of her beloved Victor who grew up knowing her loving care.

A special thanks goes to the many friends that visited Shirley at the rehab facility and the loving nurses and staff at Red Cliffs Health and Rehabilitation in St. George for making her last months as happy and comfortable as they could be. Shirley was a caretaker all her life and she took a special interest in taking “care” of some of the residents at the facility.

Services

• Shirley will be buried at the Willard Cemetery with her beloved Victor.
• The time and date of the services are pending.

Oct. 22, 1927 — Aug. 20, 2017

June Hillam Bertram passed peacefully away Aug. 20, 2017, in Layton. She was born on Oct. 22, 1927, in Salt Lake City, the youngest of four children born to LeRoy Waring and Ethleen Folsom Hillam.

June graduated from South High School in Salt Lake City. During World War II, she worked as a clerk typist at Hill Air Force Base. At war’s end, she attended the University of Utah in the field of nursing, graduating in November of 1948.

She and Joe were married on Nov. 22, in the Salt Lake City Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Joe also graduated from the University of Utah, at which time they moved to Clear Creek where they both taught school. The following year, they moved back to Salt Lake City, where June pursued her nursing career, and Joe taught school in the Granite School District.

Not long after their son Lee and daughter Kassy were born, they moved to North Hollywood, California, where Joe continued teaching and June did part time nursing. A few years later their second son, Brad, was born.

In 1976, they moved to Valencia, California, where June continued her nursing career and worked 17 years for Kaiser Permanente Hospital.

Upon retiring from nursing in 1985, she was the assistant supervisor of surgery, urology, medicine, eye, ear, nose, and throat and emergency outpatient clinic at Kaiser Hospital, Panorama City, California. June often used her nursing skills to help anyone in need.

In 1985, Joe and June retired and in 1986, moved to St. George, where they continued to be active in many community and church activities. They fulfilled a church service mission at the church employment office. In addition, they worked for over 12 years in the German genealogical extraction program for the church.

June served in every auxiliary organization of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, her favorite callings being Primary chorister and as the Burbank, California, Stake drama director.

She leaves behind two sons: Lee Bertram (Marklyn) of Toquerville and Brad Bertram (Leslie) of Kaysville, 14 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joe; two daughters, Kathryn (Kassy) Westwood and Laurel Bertram (infant); her parents; two brothers, Duane and Bruce; and sister, Shirley.

June said, “I would like to be remembered as a good wife, mother and grandmother; and faithful member of the LDS Church, and as a person of integrity who had compassion for everyone. For my optimism, sense of humor, and as one who loved her country and got tears in her eyes whenever the flag went by; or when she sang the ‘Star-Spangled Banner.'”

Funeral services

• Funeral services and visitations will be held at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff St., in St. George, Utah.
• Visitations on Friday, Aug. 25, from 5-7 p.m. and Saturday, Aug. 26, at 1 p.m.
• The funeral will follow at 2 p.m.
• Graveside service and interment will take place at Salt Lake City Cemetery, 4th Ave. and N Street, on Monday, Aug. 28, at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to LDS Primary Children’s Hospital, Salt Lake City, Utah.

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

For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit Spilsbury Mortuary online.

Aug. 24, 1938 — Aug. 23, 2017

On Wednesday, Aug. 23, our mother, Mildred Geraldine Taylor Smith Berard, age 78, left this earthly life to join her loved ones on the other side of the veil. She was a beloved sister, mother and grandmother to many. At the time of her death she was surrounded by loved ones as she crossed the veil.

Gerrie was born on a warm summer morning on Aug. 24, 1938, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Ariel and Mildred Taylor. She was the second of five children. Her father affectionately called her “Susie” though the rest of the world called her “Gerrie.” Gerrie attended Olympus High School in Salt Lake City, Utah. There she met the love of her life, David Woodruff Smith. They married in the Salt Lake LDS temple on Jan. 20, 1956. Together they started their little family while building their first home in Union, Utah.

Mom was a stay-at-home mother to their three small children. David and Gerrie were active members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She held many church callings and served the Lord well, though her most cherished calling was mother.

In 1964, David and Gerrie moved their young family to Death Valley, California, where they assumed the responsibilities of managing the town of Death Valley Junction. Her parents and a couple siblings followed them in this adventure. Though the work was hard and tiresome, the family grew strong and built bonds that would last an eternity.

After relocating to Washington, Utah, David and Gerrie decided it was time to add to their family and adopted a son, Benjamin, in 1974, from India, and then another son, Jeremy, in 1977, from Honduras.

Gerrie lived a long and happy life with her family. In 2007 she suffered a stroke which reduced her ability to do the things she loved including drafting house plans and doing family history work. In spite of her stroke she was able to fulfill a full-time mission at the Family History Center in Salt Lake City. She lived several years of her life in Ogden, near her daughter Mary and son Jeremy. She recently moved back to St. George where she lived near her daughter Laura. Gerrie loved her family with all her heart. When asked what her most prize possession was, she would say, “my family.”

She loved the gospel of Jesus Christ and always strived to live a Christ-centered life. She has always remained faithful in her religious beliefs.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her son, Benjamin Smith. She is survived by her children: Joseph (Eileen) Smith, Mary (Glenn) Galer, Laura (David) Reeves and Jeremy (Shelly) Smith; 15 grandchildren; and 25 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brothers: Robert (Deanna) Taylor, Ray (Carolyn) Taylor and Dave (Pat) Taylor; sister, Julie (Ardell) Talbot; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services

• Funeral services to honor Gerrie’s life will be held Monday, Aug. 28, at 10:30 a.m. in the Metcalf Mortuary Chapel, 288 W. St. George Blvd., St. George.
• A visitation will be held prior to services from 9:30-10:15 a.m. at the mortuary.
• Interment will be in Tonaquint Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, 435-673-4221.

For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit Metcalf Mortuary online.  

June 6, 1940 — Aug. 26, 2017

Johnnie Vance “Bish” Johnson, 77, passed away peacefully Saturday, Aug. 26, in his St. George home surrounded by loving family.

Johnnie was born June 6, 1940, in Salt Lake City to Mefford Dale and Violet Marvella Johnson. At an early age, Johnnie and his family moved to Vernal.

Johnnie spent many of his childhood days hunting and fishing in the trout streams in the Uintah Mountains. He graduated from Uintah High School and joined the United States Army. He married his beautiful bride, Judy, on June 19, 1970, in St. George.

Johnnie’s life was filled with many opportunities to touch the hearts of those around him. No matter the job, Johnnie always gave 110 percent. His influence was felt throughout the community and numerous jobs, including but not limited to: gas station attendant, mechanic, jewelry store owner and the job that brought him the most pride: maintenance supervisor at the St. George Airport.

After his retirement, Johnnie spent night and day in his wood shop building many pieces of furniture for any who wanted. Johnnie loved his country and showed it through his many years of service to the Boy Scouts of America, the Mormon Battalion and the American Legion.

Johnnie was preceded in death by his parents, Mefford Dale and Violet Marvella Johnson; his brother, Lynn Dale Johnson; his grandson, John Bryan Hansen; and great-granddaughters: Makayla Abreielle Golding and Arianna Belle Gil. Johnnie is survived by his beautiful bride, Judy Johnson, of St. George; his children: Brenda (Russel) Fuller of Goshen, Utah, Bonnie (Joe) Hansen of Raymond, Alberta, Canada, Jeri (Kelly) Young of Roosevelt, Utah, Barbara (Tom) Bunker of St. George, Utah, Bruce Anderson of Vernal, Utah, Stanley (Crystal) Price of Layton, Utah, Jana (Daff) Clyde of Tabiona, Utah, and Shauna Jo (Tom) Larkin of Washington, Utah; 41 grandchildren; 48 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great grandchildren; and many beloved friends.

The family wishes to express a special thanks to their LDS Ward Family, Vanessa, Ashley, Cody and Troy from hospice for remarkable care and friendship.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held Saturday, Sept. 2, at 10 a.m. at the St. George 1st Ward Chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 591 W. 500 North.
• A visitation will be held Friday, Sept. 1, at the Metcalf Mortuary, 288 W. St. George Blvd., St. George, from 6-8 p.m. and Saturday prior to services from 9-9:30 a.m. at the church.
• Interment will be in the Tonaquint Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, 435-673-4221.

For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit Metcalf Mortuary online.   

May 6, 1958 — Aug. 25, 2017

Gerald (Gary) Lee Cox was born May 6, 1958, in St. George, Utah, to Gerald L. Cox and Nancy Anderson Cox Shaffer. He passed away Friday, Aug. 25, from a long history of heart disease. Gary married Diane Ellett June 20, 1981. They later divorced. Gary was raised in St. George and attended Dixie High School and Cedar High to achieve his education.

Gary had many talents. He was an excellent chef, working for many years for his father at the Brandin’ Iron Steak House in Pine Valley. He also loved music and learned to play the guitar. He played many nights at the restaurant. Gary was happiest when he was outside working on his garden. He loved spending time at the lake and just being outdoors. He took care of his Grandpa Rhoades in Cedar City for several months until his passing.

Gary is survived by his children: Leighton (RaLauna) Cox of Lanark, Idaho, Landon Cox of Lanark, Idaho, and Elizabeth June Cox; grandchildren Cassidy June, Tayva Diane and Levi Leighton; parents Gerald (Deanna) Cox and Nancy (Thomas) Shaffer; siblings Lisa (Kent) Provstgaard, Jeff (Raquel) Cox, Durae (Cindy) Cox and Shelley (Ted) Hurst; and many nieces and nephews.

He was proceeded in death by his ex-wife Diane Ellett and grandparents V. Loraine and Anna Cox and George and Fontella Rhoades.

Funeral services

• A celebration of life will be held Friday, Sept. 1, 2017, 1 p.m. at the Spilsbury Mortuary Chapel, 110 S. Bluff St., St. George.
• There will be a gathering for family and friends prior to services from 12:30 p.m. until time of service.

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

For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit Spilsbury Mortuary online.

Sept. 27, 1958 — Aug. 26, 2017

Kenneth Gary Blake, Jr., 58, passed away Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017. He was born Sept. 27, 1958, in St. George to Kenneth “Red” and Pat Blake. He married his wife Gina Maria Chrisman on June 30, 1979.

Shortly after being born, Kenny and his family moved to Las Vegas where they spent nine years of his life. They moved back to St. George where he graduated from Dixie High School in 1976. After high school, he found his passion for business and construction. Kenny took pride in setting up and running his own business, K.C. Aluminum, for 32 years. Everyone that knew Kenny realized that he was a true craftsman and a man of his word, a handshake was all that was needed. Kenny enjoyed sharing his passion of craftsmanship with his children and teaching them the value of hard work.

Kenny had many hobbies that allowed him to enjoy life such as waterskiing, drag racing, hot rods, motorcycles, taking his family to new and exciting places, golfing and a good game of horseshoes (as long as he won). He found joy in sharing these hobbies with others and always found ways to make people laugh. Kenny’s favorite place was Lake Powell where he was able to share his love of water with his children. Being able to own a houseboat meant Kenny was able to slow down and spend time with his children, which allowed him to pass on and teach his children many of his life mottos and values.

Throughout Kenny’s life he faced many struggles but lived by his mottos, “Always work hard and never give up” and “Work hard, play harder.” He overcame these struggles and loved to use the knowledge he gained to help others. Kenny was often known to share his experiences with the hope of touching someone else’s life.

He is survived by his wife Gina Blake; his three children and their spouses, Nick (Brooke) Blake, Chris Blake, and Chelsey (Brandon) Baldwin; his grandchildren, Candice, Patsey, and Vivian; his parents, Red and Pat Blake; and his siblings, Gina Peterson, Betty Jo (Howard) Western, Kenna (David) Nelson, and Michael Blake.

Kenny’s family would like to thank all his family and friends who have been there and helped him through the last 17 years.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held Friday, Sept. 1, at 11 a.m. at the Bloomington Hills Chapel at 1130 E. Brigham Road, St. George.
• Viewings will be held Thursday, Aug. 31, from 5-7 p.m. at the Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 South Bluff St., St. George, and prior to services Friday from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the chapel.
• Interment will take place in the St. George City Cemetery.

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

For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit Spilsbury Mortuary online.

June 11, 1929 — Aug. 27, 2017

Fay Beebe Syphus, Jr.  passed away Sunday, Aug. 27, 2017, from causes incident to age. He was born June 11, 1929, in Chicago, Illinois, to Fay Beebe and Elizabeth Tullis Syphus. The family moved to Utah a few months later, living in Huntington, Gunlock, Santa Clara and St. George.

Beebe worked on the farm cutting and raking hay and milking cows. He played on the Red Hill and in the Virgin River. Summers were spent picking a variety of fruits and caring for their cow and chickens.  Beebe enjoyed playing basketball and playing the trumpet.

He graduated from Dixie High School in 1947 and from Dixie College in 1949. He served in the Central States Mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1949-1951, where he taught and baptized a beautiful girl, the former Mary Ficken.

Beebe and Mary were married Nov. 5, 1951, in the living room of his family home. They were sealed in the St. George Temple June 11, 1952, and then moved to Provo where Beebe attended BYU. In 1952, Beebe was drafted into the Army and served in Kaiserslautern, Germany until 1954.

Upon returning to the United States, Beebe and Mary lived in Indian Springs, Nevada, and settled in St. George to raise their family of six children. Beebe loved telling stories and talking with his kids. Beebe’s life experiences made him a multi-talented man, and he could do just about anything.

Beebe worked for the Fire Department at the Nevada Test Site for 35 years, and for Larkin Plumbing & Heating. After retirement, they enjoyed the cool breezes of Pine Valley and a wonderful association with family and friends.

Beebe and Mary served a two-year LDS mission at the Bishop’s Storehouse in St. George where they were known as hardworking people who were fun to be around.

Beebe is survived by his children, Les (Iona), Doug (Wendy), Dave (Rhonda), Katherine Lee (Jerry), Daniel (Kim), Marilyn Bell (Daniel). He is also survived by 32 grandchildren and 47 great grandchildren; two brothers and their spouses Merrill and Deanne Syphus and Stanley and Bonnie Syphus; a sister Lenore Syphus, brother-in law Bob Jensen, and many nieces and nephews. Beebe was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary; parents Fay Beebe and Elizabeth Tullis Syphus; sisters Marilyn Syphus and Betty Jensen, and a sister-in-law Sharlene Syphus.

The family is grateful for the caretakers of Ridgeview Gardens and Sun Tree Hospice for their kindness and service to “sweet Beebe.”

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held Saturday, Sept. 2 at 11 a.m. at the Morningside Chapel, 930 S. Morningside Drive, St George.
• A viewing will be held on Friday from 5-7 p.m. at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff St., and before services on Saturday at the church from 9:30-10:30 a.m.
• Interment will take place in the St George City Cemetery.

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

For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit Spilsbury Mortuary online.

Feb. 5, 1928 – Aug. 30, 2017

Shirley Johnson, 89, passed away, Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2017, in St. George, Utah.  She was born Feb. 5, 1928, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to Vern and Madeline Eulaile Fuller Herrick.

Funeral services

• Funeral Services will be held Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017, at 11 a.m. in the Bloomington 8^th Ward Chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3381 So. Mulberry Dr., St. George, Utah.
• Visitations will be held Friday, Sept. 8, 2017, from 6-8 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 West St. George Blvd, St. George, Utah, and prior to services from 9:30-10:30 at the chapel.
• Interment will be in the Tonaquint Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, 435-673-4221.

For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit Metcalf Mortuary online.

Nov. 11, 1953 – Aug. 8, 2017

Ronald Joe Drake, 63, unexpectedly passed away Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2017, at home in Leeds, Utah. He was born Nov. 11, 1953, in Ponca City, Oklahoma, to Jack and Wanda Drake. He was married to Shari Drake on Sept. 12, 1994, in Page, Arizona.

Ron was a master certified RV Tech at Camping World in St George, Utah.

Ron loved his family and friends. He loved the outdoors and all that entails. Ron was an amazing artist and created beautiful pieces of art.

He is survived by his wife of 24 years, Shari Drake (Leeds, Utah); children Zach (Carrie) of Washington, Utah, Morgan (April) of St. George, Utah, Andrea (Greg) of Ashton, Idaho, Eric (Chanda) of St. George, Utah, and Kristin (Geno) of Leeds, Utah; his grandchildren Brooklyn, Leo, Sierra, Jaida, Daelynn, Thomas, Kayden, Calen, Nathan and Vincent; brothers and sisters, Andy (Wendy) of Utah, John of Veyo, Utah, Dave (Linda) Elko, Nevada, Christine of Utah and Gina of Hurricane, Utah.

Services

• A Celebration of Ron’s life was held at the Drake home, 284 E. Homespun Circle, Leeds, Utah, on Aug. 12, 2017 at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Shari Drake to help cover funeral expenses.

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

For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit Spilsbury Mortuary online.

July 12, 1926 — Aug. 31, 2017

Ralph Edwin Springer, 91, passed away Aug. 31. He was the only child of Raymond Emile and Ada Lucille Springer. He was born July 12, 1926, in Denver, Colorado, but grew up in Los Angeles, California, moving to Long Beach, California, when he was a teenager.

Ralph served during WWII as a submariner in the U.S. Navy. When he returned home he met and married Beverly Rubottom on Oct. 4, 1947. They were married for 69 years. They have two wonderful daughters, Terri and Vicki.

Ralph was a salesman. He worked for Laura Scudder Potato Chips for 18 years. In 1970, he started Springer Distributing and became the first distributor of Mother’s Cookies in the state of Utah. He loved the grocery business and made many friends. He was known as the “Cookie Man.”

He joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1963, and he and Bev were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple in 1964. He loved to serve in the church. His first responsibility was Elder’s Quorum President. He served as a High Councilman with assignment to serve with the Young Adults in the Utah Brighton Stake. Ralph and Bev moved to Park City, Utah, where he soon became Bishop of the Park City 1st Ward. After moving to St. George, they served two missions in San Diego, California, and Papeete, Tahiti. He served four years as Director of the Baptistery in the St. George Temple. He always said he was blessed to have the opportunity to serve his Heavenly Father.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Bev; daughters: Terri (Steven) Demas and Vicki (Robert) Crockett; grandsons: Scott Demas and Greg (Nicole) Crockett; granddaughters: Kari (Perry) Evans and Julie (Brandon) Hunt; and ten great-grandchildren.

The family would like to thank Dixie Home Hospice and especially: Christy, Shauna, Aimee and Mary Ellen for their loving care.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Memory Matters Utah at memorymattersutah.org.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held Tuesday, Sept. 5 at 11 a.m. at the Metcalf Mortuary Chapel, 288 W. St. George Boulevard.
• A visitation will be held Tuesday, prior to services, from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the mortuary.
• Interment will be in the Tonaquint Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, 435-673-4221.

For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit Metcalf Mortuary online.

Jan. 27, 1924 — Sept. 3, 2017

Doris Marie Jones passed away Sept. 3, 2017, in St. George. Doris was born Jan. 27, 1924, in Olean, New York, to Glenn Martin and Elsie I. Lundquist Kibbe.

After graduating from Hinsdale Central School, she entered nurses training receiving her RN at Buffalo General Hospital. She entered the Navy Nurses Corp as an Ensign in 1945. She married Lawrence Jones Oct. 17, 1947, in Portsmouth, Virginia. From this union came three children. They were later divorced.

She moved to California in 1952, where she lived until her retirement from the Los Angeles County Health Department. She moved to Santa Clara shortly after retiring.

Doris was a member of the Santa Clara 2^nd Ward of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and loved her ward family dearly. She loved to travel and sew, making beautiful dresses for her granddaughters.

She is survived by her three children, Linda Jones of San Jose Del Cabo, Mexico, Larry (Sandy) of Roy, Loren (Terry) of Lake Havasu City, Arizona; six grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Harold and Donald; sister, Judy; and grandson, Anthony Earl Jones.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made either to LDS Humanitarian Aid or the American Red Cross.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held Saturday, September 9, at 11 a.m. at the Rachel LDS Chapel, 3815 Rachel Dr., Santa Clara.
• There will be a viewing Friday, Sept. 8 from 6-8 p.m. at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff, and Saturday prior to services from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the chapel.
• Interment will take place in the Santa Clara City Cemetery.

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

For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit Spilsbury Mortuary online.

Nov. 23, 1936 — Sept. 3, 2017

Karen Mitchell Garcia, 80, died peacefully on Sept. 3, at the Dixie Regional Medical Center in St. George. Karen was born on Nov. 23, 1936, in Escalante, to Cloyd and Cleone Riddle Mitchell.

Karen enjoyed traveling, reading and most of all playing bridge. She raised two boys, Dan and Mitch Wright.

She is survived by her sons; four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; two brothers and two sisters.

Karen will be greatly missed by all.

Funeral services

• Graveside services will be held Saturday, Sept. 9, at 10 a.m. at the Washington City Cemetery.

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

For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit Spilsbury Mortuary online.

Feb. 11, 1930 — Sept. 5, 2017

Lynn James Cook, 87, passed away Tuesday, Sept. 5, in Gillette, Wyoming. He was born, Feb. 11, 1930, in Syracuse, Utah, to Nephi and Frances Dyson Cook.

Lynn loved dogs, Readers Digest jokes and babies. He taught us the importance of love, forgiveness and overcoming life’s obstacles. He is loved and will be missed.

Lynn is survived by his children and stepchildren: James Cook, Janice Thayne, Karen Cook, Robert Cook, Carol McKee, David Dix, Richard Dix and Edmund Dix; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Gretta Cook; and stepson, Arthur Dix.

Funeral services

• Graveside services will be Friday, Sept. 8, at 1 p.m. at the LaVerkin City Cemetery.
• A visitation will be held Friday, prior to services, from noon-12:45 p.m. at the Metcalf Hurricane Valley Mortuary, 140 North Main Street, Hurricane.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, 435-673-4221.

For condolences, full obituary, and funeral listings please visit Metcalf Mortuary online.