Oct. 6, 1925 – Aug. 11, 2018

Ada Mae Rodgers Gardner, 92, passed away Aug. 11, 2018, Washington, Utah. She was born Oct. 6, 1925, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Bert Huish Rodgers and Mary Bernice Peterson Rodgers.

She attended school in Star Valley, Wyoming, until she moved to Provo, Utah, where she graduated from high school.

Ada married Bruce Low Gardner, July 10, 1944, in Idaho Falls, Idaho. Two boys: Deter and Kimball (Pam) and two girls: Eko (Kevin) and Jane were born to Low and Ada.

Ranching and outfitting for the majority of their marriage, Ada was the cook, a guide, catered weddings, organized class reunions and holiday parties. She was a nurse and held other jobs while raising her family and running the ranch.

Ada was known for her cooking and for her Dutch oven cooking. She made and sold quilts and loved to crochet. She was a rodeo queen coach and adviser and was proud of the girls that she worked with.

As an active and loving member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she was a Stake Relief Society president, Ward Relief Society president for 22 years and held many other church callings. She continued her service through temple work.

Ada was preceded in death by her parents, Burt and Bernice; stepfather, Herb Schwab; husband, Low; brothers, Bert and Scott; sisters, Rhea and Valine; three stepbrothers: Dele, Wayne and Reed Schwab; and grandson, Jed. She is survived by her sister, Ann; her children; 16 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Her family was the most important thing in her life, followed by her friends, her garden and her cat. We will miss her and want everyone to pay her love and friendship forward.

Funeral services

• Burial will be in the Afton, Wyoming, city cemetery, Sept. 1, at 11 a.m.
• A memorial service will be held in October in Washington, 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.

Dec. 14, 1953 – Aug. 9, 2018

Robert Francis Crow, aka Bob, BC, Bobby, Bob the Builder, Bobby-o, was born in Los Angeles, California, on Dec. 14, 1953. He passed away Aug. 9, 2018, after a courageous two-year battle with cancer.

Bob was born to Aldon and Irene Crow and was the youngest of four siblings. He spent his childhood in southern California where he enjoyed sports and scouting.

Bob served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Portland, Oregon, where he met his future wife, Brenda. Bob and Brenda were married on April 24, 1976, and sealed a year later in the Oakland, California, temple. They have three children, Jennifer, Stephanie and Jordan. Bob worked in the auto industry for his entire career, specializing in parts. After 30 years in Oregon, Bob and Brenda relocated to sunny Southern Utah to be closer to family.

Bob was a kind and dedicated husband, father, brother, uncle, employee, neighbor and friend. He greeted everyone by their name and with a smile and was known never to forget birthdays, anniversaries or other significant events. The world was a better place because of him. He will be greatly missed. Bob chose to continue serving others, even after his death, by donating his body to the University of Utah for medical research. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity.

He is survived by his wife Brenda, their three children along with their spouses and six grandchildren who all adored him.

Please join us in a celebration of his life on Saturday, Aug. 18, from 2-4 p.m., with a program at 3 p.m. at the LDS chapel at 290 E. 1060 South (west building), Ivins, Utah. Casual dress, we encourage everyone to wear black, orange or Oregon State University clothing in honor of Bob and his never-ending support as a “Beaver Believer.”

Arrangements and memorial tree planting by Serenity Funeral Home, 435-986-2085.

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

May 27, 1932 – Aug. 10, 2018

Dolores Edith Coe Griffin, 86, passed away Aug. 10, 2018. She was born May 27, 1932, in Albany, New York, to Samuel G. Coe and Flora Smith Coe. She married Clyde Lewis Griffin, June 20, 1954, in Albany.

She loved growing up close to her family in Albany where several aunts and uncles lived within a six-block radius. As one of only three children in the extended family, she was spoiled by many doting aunts and uncles, with whom she enjoyed many family outings along the Hudson River.

After graduating high school, she attended Albany Business College, where she graduated with honors. Trips to New York City with friends were commonplace. During one particular trip she met a handsome young airman at Coney Island named Clyde Griffin, from Utah. From that point on, her life out west was set.

She broke with family tradition and moved out west but promised to visit every year. She faithfully kept that promise, bringing her ever-growing family back to beautiful upstate New York each year.

Out west the family started off in California and eventually settled in Utah. By that time her family had grown to a husband and four boys, mom was hopelessly outnumbered. As her sons grew, grandchildren came into her life and they were her pride and joy. She loved being a grandma and the grandkids loved spending time with her. She made each one feel special and like they were her favorite.

After losing her husband 24 years ago, she filled her time with gardening, cooking, traveling and of course visiting her grandkids. She will be missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her four sons: Craig, Wes (Becky), Brian, and Mark (Trudi); her 12 grandchildren; and 5 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, family and friends.

Funeral services

• A viewing will be held Friday, Aug. 17, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at Wing Mortuary, 118 E. Main Street, Lehi, Utah.
• Graveside services will be held immediately following at the Lehi City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Primary Children’s Hospital.

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

March 30, 1949 – Aug. 11, 2018

Marsha Lynne Blake Gubler, age 69, returned to her heavenly Father on Aug. 11, 2018. She passed away at her home in Santa Clara, Utah. She was born March 30, 1949, in St. George to James Gordon Blake and Della Leola Stimpson Blake. Marsha Lynne married Keith Alvin Gubler on Aug. 12, 1967, in the St. George temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They were married for 51 years.

Marsha Lynne grew up in St. George and enjoyed spending time with her family and tending to the family livestock on the Arizona Strip and Kolob Mountain. She enjoyed caring for the dogie lambs that her dad would bring home. She graduated from Dixie High School and loved participating in plays and band and was very talented on the french horn and piano. Marsha Lynne also enjoyed and was very talented in reading and writing poetry.

Marsha Lynne met her husband Keith in 1965. Soon after marriage, Keith was drafted and sent to Ft. Lewis in Tacoma, Washington, for basic training. She then followed him to Ft. Sill, Oklahoma, for his advanced training. Following advanced training, they moved to Kaiserslautern, Germany, where he served active duty the next 18 months as a military police officer. They enjoyed touring Europe together while stationed in Germany.

Keith and Marsha Lynne have six children, three of whom preceded her in death. Their first child was stillborn in Vienna, Austria, the second child, Brian, passed away after three short months, and the third child that predeceased her, Teralee, passed away at age 10.  Even through all her trials and heartaches with the loss of three of her children, she felt privileged to raise three healthy children. She loved being a mother and grandmother to her 16 grandchildren.

Marsha Lynne was a devoted member of the LDS church and held many positions, including Primary and Relief Society president. She enjoyed serving three missions with Keith for the church in Adam-ondi-Ahman, Missouri, and twice in Martins Cove, Wyoming. Marsha Lynne’s most prize possessions were her family and her membership in the church.

Marsha Lynne was preceded in death by her parents James Gordon Blake and Della Leola Stimpson Blake; her brothers Jay and Gary Blake; and sister Vida Albright. She is survived by her husband Keith; children Brandon (Lori) Gubler, Shalyn (Lincoln) Coombs and Phillip (Debbie) Gubler; and sisters Jelaine Shrum and Velaine Turnbull.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held Saturday, Aug. 18, at 11 a.m., at the Santa Clara LDS chapel, 3040 Santa Clara Drive, Santa Clara, Utah.
• Visitations will be held Friday evening from 6-8 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 West St. George Blvd. and on Saturday, prior to services, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the church.
• Interment will be in the Santa Clara City 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.

Feb. 12, 1953 – Aug. 15, 2018

Fred William Topalian, 65, passed away Aug. 15, 2018, in Washington City, Utah.

He was born Feb. 12, 1953, in Van Nuys, California, to William and Lucille Topalian.

Growing up in Southern California, Fred enjoyed surfing, camping, hiking and spending time with friends and family. He also loved aviation and photography.

In 1975 he moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where he met and married Beverley Leavitt in 1977.

In 1984 Fred moved his young family to St. George, Utah, where he opened the iconic Camera Country and grew it into a successful business with Utah’s first one-hour photo lab which served the St George community for 29 years.

In 1993 Fred married his soul mate Kim Chamberlain who was by his side the rest of his life

Fred loved spending time with his family and watching it grow. Fred was a man who could win any game and took pride in his craftsmanship. Fred and Kim loved to travel and were able to see a lot of the world with friends and family.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and his son, Anthony (Tony) Topalian. He is survived by his children, Corin (Shawn) Clay, Ryan (Tennill) Topalian, Casey (Sara) Topalian, and stepdaughters, Bridgette Blake (Carson) Gardner and Jamie Dawn (Cody) Andrew; 13 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings Carole Topalian, Charles Topalian and James Topalian, and sisters-in-law, Tracey Ryder, Mary Topalian and Diana Topalian.

The family wishes to thank all of the doctors, nurses and hospice workers who did so much for Fred during his illness. Laura Mirabile demonstrated amazing care and compassion.

A memorial service will be held Friday, Aug. 31, 2018, at 2 p.m. at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 South Bluff Street, St. George, Utah.

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

March 6, 1956 — Aug. 16, 2018

Max Charles “Chuck” Marshall Sr. passed away Aug. 16, 2018. He was born March 6, 1956, in Hollywood, California.

He married Rosemarie Fava in Garden Grove, California, March 10, 1973.

He was raised in Canoga Park and Tustin, California, where he attended Foothill High School and then began a career in the construction industry. After marrying Rosemarie, they began raising a family.

In 1980, construction took him to the small booming town of Hesperia, California. While in Hesperia, he decided to serve his community and become a reserve deputy for the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department from 1989 to 1993.

After many successful years, Chuck brought his family to the quiet community of Cedar City in 1993, ultimately settling in Washington City in 2001. He continued in construction and also began a private investigation business.

Then in 2009, he found his calling in the private probation industry giving him a sense of serving the community again and helping others. He understood and found great joy in assisting others to gain a second chance, frequently stating “Let’s get through the train wreck.”

His hobbies included fishing, camping, shooting, flying radio controlled planes and a great love for playing the guitar, writing and recording music.

He is survived by his wife, Rosemarie Marshall of Washington; son Max Charles “Chuck” Marshall III and daughter-in-law Michelle of Murray, Utah; daughter Sheila and son-in-law Shawn Hunter of St. George; son Brett and daughter-in-law Heather Marshall of Wilmington, North Carolina; grandchildren Kaydi, Natalye, Lyndee, Aspen, Sicily, Saelor, Degan, Silus, Lauren, Mason, Preslee, Carson and Bennet; father, Max Charles Marshall of Hesperia, California; sister Debra Ann and brother-in-law Jon Peterson of Hesperia, California; and brother Robert and sister-in-law Rhonda Marshall of Rancho San Diego, California.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Marilyn Sombroff-Marshall.

Family would like to offer a special thank you for the care given by Richard Wintch M.D., Ray Munson R.N., Jonathan Baugh D.O., Michelle Marshall R.N. and Lori Mayfield R.N.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held Saturday, Aug. 25, at 11 a.m. with a visitation prior to services from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the Spilsbury Mortuary Chapel, 110 S. Bluff St., St. George.
• Interment services will follow at the Washington City Cemetery 300 E. Parkview Dr., Washington, 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.

Jan. 1, 1922 – Aug. 15, 2018

On Aug. 15, 2018, an angel left earth and went home to heaven. Mahalia Christensen Sapp, 96, was a tenacious kind Latter-day Saint woman. She was born Jan. 1, 1922, in Huntington, Utah to Peter Berner Christensen and Grace Cox.

She left behind a legacy of four children: Chris (Carol) Sapp, Robyn G. Sapp, and Janis (Jeff) Wayman, nine grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

Her life on this Earth was filled with the things that mattered. She loved her family, gardening and hiking. She baked the best Christmas cookies anyone could ever imagine and loved giving loud smacking cheek kisses that could make anyone giggle. She loved to spend her days gardening and tending to her garden of beautiful irises, doing genealogy, and oh how she loved anything that had to do with birds and the outdoors.

For decades she spent her retirement walking 10 miles a day because she loved it. Every day was spent with studying the Scriptures and extensive journaling that she did daily throughout her life.

She will be greatly missed, but we are so grateful to have had the time that we did with her. All those that she touched felt her love for Christ and his word. We can only imagine the joyful reunions that took place as she entered the gates of heaven and was no doubt surrounded by so many loved ones.

She was preceded in death by her everlasting and loving companion, Diamond G. Sapp; her eldest child, Randee Evans, and her grandson, James Sapp.

Well done thou good and faithful servant until we meet again. We love you.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held on Friday, Aug. 24, at 2 p.m. at the Metcalf Mortuary Chapel, 288 W. St. George Blvd., St. George, Utah.
• A visitation will be held Friday, prior to services, from 12:30-1:30 p.m. at the mortuary.
• Interment will be Friday at 4 p.m. at the Pine Valley Cemetery, Pine Valley, 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.

Dec. 6, 1984 – Aug. 20, 2018

Garrett Lee Malnar, age 33, passed away at home on Aug. 20, 2018. He was born Dec. 6, 1984, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Clinton Ray Malnar and Melanie Reber

Garrett was raised in Santa Clara and attended Santa Clara Elementary. At age 12 he moved to Bloomington Hills to live with his father. He attended Pine View High School where he played junior varsity football and graduated in the class of 2003.

After high school he used his charm and smarts to start his own business in the field of sales. Two years ago, he moved to California and was still working in sales. He recently moved back to Santa Clara.

Garrett was charming and made friends easily. The friendships he made when he was young he valued very much and remained close with those friends throughout his life. He made everyone he met feel like family. Garrett loved sports and his favorite thing was watching the Utah Jazz with his dad or his Grandpa Reber. He would challenge anyone to a game of basketball in the driveway. He loved to torment his sisters and he was very good at it. He and his father had a great tradition of going hunting and fishing in the Uinta mountains, Garrett loved the mountains and always looked forward to this.

The list of words to describe Garrett are endless but these are some of the ones we like best: biggest heart, best friend, protector, smart, so funny, loving, stubborn, sarcastic, caring for everyone, and his laugh and smile were contagious. Garrett had a pure love for his family and loved them more than anything. His biggest concern was always for his mother.

Garrett loved shoes, you could say he had an obsession. In fact, he just bought three pair on Saturday, which goes to show he had plans and his story wasn’t supposed to be over yet. The disease of addiction has plagued Garrett for some time. He had fought and won many of these battles, but the ugly disease reared its head again. Garrett had just bought a ticket to go to Boston to enter a treatment program. This disease made him into someone he didn’t want to be. He had a drive and desire to be successful in all areas of his life. But the demons won this battle.

He will be missed so much and always loved.

Garrett is survived by his mother Melanie Reber (Santa Clara), his father Clint and Jordan Malnar (Bloomington Hills), and three sisters, Nicole and David Spence (North Carolina), Candice and Brian Warby (Iowa), Lauren Malnar (California), grandmother Marylynn Reber (Santa Clara) and five nieces and nephews.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held Friday, Aug. 24, at 1 p.m., at the Spilsbury Mortuary Chapel, 110 S. Bluff St., St. George, Utah.
• There will be a viewing Thursday, Aug. 23, from 6-8 p.m. and prior to services Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., both to be held at the mortuary.
• 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. 30, 1942 – Aug. 21, 2018

Gary Duane Nyborg, age 75, returned to his heavenly Father on Aug. 21, 2018. He passed away at his home in Washington Fields, Utah. He was born Nov. 30, 1942, in Kingman, Arizona, to Edna Black and Alfonso Hansen Nyborg. Gary married Brenda Kleinman on Aug. 31, 1963, in Toquerville, Utah. The marriage was later solemnized in the St. George temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on July 16, 1966. They were married for almost 55 years.

Gary grew up in Southern Utah and northern Arizona where he learned the value of hard work and found his love for the outdoors and hunting. He spent most of his youth in the remote mountains of Southern Utah riding his horse in the company of his trusted dog. He graduated from Fredonia High School where he played on both the basketball and football teams. He was named most outstanding athlete his junior year of high school.

Gary worked 40 years at Titanium Metals and ranched five years on the Arizona Strip.

Gary was larger than life and he touched the lives of many with his outgoing personality, kindness, generosity and his sense of humor.

Gary and Brenda have three children. Gary loved being a father and a grandfather. He had eight grandchildren and loved to go to all of their sporting events. He knew football and basketball but soon learned soccer and volleyball, too.

Gary was a devoted member of the LDS church and held many positions. Later in life he served two service missions with his eternal partner Brenda, which gave him great joy.

Gary was was preceded in death by his parents Alfonso Hansen Nyborg and Edna Black Nyborg; his brother Darwin Lloyd Nyborg; and sisters Vonda Jean Nyborg and Teresa Nyborg.

He is survived by his wife Brenda; children Lezlee (Andrew) Jones, Chad (Saleen) Nyborg and Lance (Holly) Nyborg; sisters Elaine Gubler and Sherrie Louise Webb;  and his eight grandchildren.

The family would like to extend their appreciation and love to Dr. John Reis and their special angel, Nurse Leslie Banks.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held Monday, Aug. 27, at 11 a.m., at the Washington Fields LDS chapel, 115 W. 2000 South, Washington, Utah.
• A viewing will be held that morning from 9-10:45 a.m. at the church.
• Interment will be in the Toquerville City Cemetery.

Arrangements and memorial tree planting by Serenity Funeral Home.

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

May 28, 1984 – Aug. 15, 2018

Jason Gerald Lawrence passed away Aug. 15, 2018, surrounded by his family. Jason passed away at the young age of 34. Jason was born on May 28, 1984, to Pamela Lawrence in St. George, Utah. He was a selfless and loving person with a big heart. He had unconditional love for everyone. He loved to play the piano, which he taught himself to do. He was the caretaker of his beautiful grandmother, Jeraldine Gifford Lawrence, until her passing in March 2018.

Jason had many struggles in his life, but in the end he had turned his life around for the better. For that, we are all so very proud of him! Jason loved his family very much and had a very special bond with his sister, Jackie. He loved her very much! Jason, as your mother, my life will never be the same without you in it.

Jason is survived by his mother, Pamela Lawrence; sisters Jackie Clarke, Jessica Tebbs, Alisha Ruesch and Jessica James; brother-in-law Justin Clarke; brothers Wade Ruesch, Derrick Ruesch, Matt Winder and Marshall Winder; grandmother Aileen Ruesch; many aunts, uncles and cousins. Jason was preceded in death by many loved ones. As Jason’s mother, I would like to thank all the people who were there for Jason.

Funeral services

• Services will be held on Friday, Aug. 24, at 11 a.m. at 155 E. 1050 North (chapel) in Hurricane, Utah.
• A viewing will be from 9-10:45 a.m.

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

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

Dec. 11, 1929 – Aug. 22, 2018

Willard Richard Pickering, age 88, passed away Aug. 22, 2018, at his home, after a valiant battle with cancer. He was born Dec. 11, 1929, to Ernest A. Pickering and Mary Ann Winsor in St. George, Utah. He was the youngest of six children.

Willard married Etta Ruth Bagshaw in the St. George temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on June 25, 1952. He served in the military during the Korean War where he was stationed in Fort Lewis, Washington. After his time of service he moved back to Enterprise, Utah, where he owned his own farm. He grew corn, potatoes and hay. In the younger years of farming, he sold eggs to many stores in Southern Utah and southern Nevada.

He enjoyed supporting his kids and grandkids in their high school activities and supported all of the Enterprise High School sports.

Willard was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where he served faithfully in many callings.

Willard is survived by his wife of 66 years and their children: Dave (Shirley) Pickering, Eric (LaDawna) Pickering, Camie (Lynn) Foremaster, all of Enterprise, Dana (Teresa) Pickering of St. George, and Marlene Mendenhall (Darrell Unger) of Forks, Washington; 26 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren with two more on the way. He was preceded in death by his parents and all of his siblings: Marie, Arthur, Perry, Leah and Wendall; grandson, Steven Pickering, and a son-in-law, Ray Mendenhall.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held Monday, Aug. 27, at 11 a.m. at the Enterprise LDS Stake Center, 80 South Center Street, Enterprise, Utah.
• Visitations will be held at the stake center Sunday from 6-8 p.m. and Monday, prior to services, from 10-10:45 a.m.
• Interment will be in the Winsor Memorial Cemetery, Enterprise, 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.

June 10, 1925 – Aug. 22, 2018

Anton “Tony” Dobrovolny, 93, was taken back to his heavenly Father, Aug. 22, 2018, in St. George, Utah. He was born June 10, 1925, in Atkinson, Nebraska, to Joseph and Ella Ziska Dobrovolny.

Tony married the love of his life, Margarete “Greta” S. Dobrovolny, Nov. 5, 1955, in Topeka, Kansas.

Tony was born and raised on a cattle ranch in Nebraska, at which time he joined the U.S. Army. He served as a company commander and received two Purple Hearts, two Bronze Service Stars, the Korean Medal of Honor and the United Nations Medal of Honor.

Tony enjoyed reading, bowling, hiking, hunting, traveling and being with those he loved. He worked for the Army Corps of Engineers in California until retirement.

Tony was a wonderful husband, father, son and brother. He will be greatly missed by those who love him.

Tony is survived by his wife, Margarete Dobrovolny; sons, Lee and Michael Dobrovolny; grandson, Stephen Oswald; brothers, John (Maryann), Tommy (Joann) and Fred (Dixie); sister, Marie (Ray); along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Albena.

Funeral services

• A visitation will be held on Monday, Aug. 27, from 6-8 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 West St. George Blvd., St. George, 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.

Sept. 26, 1947 – Aug. 24, 2018

Dennis Wayne Mertel passed from this world on Aug. 24, 2018, surrounded by his wife, children and grandchildren.

Dennis was born Sept. 26, 1947, to Bernard and Eleanor Mertel in La Salle, Illinois, shortly after Bernard returned from deployment in WWII. He lived in Illinois for a short time in his youth. His parents chose to relocate to Southern California and landed in Bellflower.

In Bellflower he attended elementary school, junior high and finally graduated from Mayfair High School. Around the age of 16 he started working with his dad in an auto body repair shop. He loved it so much he went on to become a talented auto body repairman, following in his father’s footsteps.  

After high school he was drafted to the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He made it through boot camp and was deployed to Vietnam. After a short time there, he was discharged due to his asthma.

Upon his return home he met and married his first wife in 1968. He was blessed with a son, Daniel Mertel, and two daughters, Dawn Morrison and Alicia Comstock. The couple was married 12 years before they parted ways.

Shortly thereafter he met the love of his life, Patricia English Mertel. Not only did Dennis marry his beautiful bride but he also wrapped his heart around another daughter, his stepdaughter Charmane Warren. With his new family blended he relocated them to Whittier, California, in the mid-1980s and bought a beautiful home to raise them.

After a contentious custody battle, Dennis was awarded full custody of his three children from his first marriage. The new happy family lived and thrived in Whittier for 14 years until Dennis and Patricia purchased their retirement property in idyllic Toquerville, Utah.

Dennis and Patricia lived with Patricia’s mother while they built the home of their dreams. When their home was complete they moved in and never looked back.

Dennis enjoyed gardening, playing cribbage, bowling, woodworking and mild home improvements. He was a hardworking man who fought hard to provide a beautiful life for his wife and children.  

He is survived by a loving family comprised of Patricia Mertel (wife), Dan Mertel (son), Megan Mertel (Dan’s wife), Trevor, Braden, Kaden, Cole (Dan and Megan’s boys), Alicia Comstock (daughter), Richard Comstock (Alicia’s husband), Charmane Warren (stepdaughter), David Warren (Charmane’s husband), Joshua, Wyatt (Charmane and David’s boys), Dawn Morrison (daughter), Zac Miller (Dawn’s fiancé), Zyanne (Zac’s daughter), Presley (Dawn and Eric’s son), and Eric Morrison (son-in-law).

His legacy lives on in our hearts and in heaven. We love you.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held Wednesday, Aug. 29, at 10 a.m. at the Spilsbury Hurricane Valley Mortuary, 25 N. 200 West, Hurricane.
• There will be a viewing Tuesday, Aug. 28, from 6-8 p.m. and Wednesday one hour prior to services, both held at the mortuary.
• Interment will take place in the Toquerville 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.

July 4, 1928 – Aug. 25, 2018

Norman Walter Johnson, 90, passed away on Aug. 25, 2018. He was born July 4, 1928, to William Norval and Effie Evelyn Johnson in the Rail Road Hospital at Lynndyl, Utah. He always boasted that all of America celebrated his birthday.

Growing up in the Delta area, he loved the outdoors and could always be found fishing or hunting. He was kind, soft-spoken and an obedient son. He served a mission in Canada. He served his country with an honorable release where he had many experiences that helped him grow to manhood and which magnified his love for country and freedom. Patriotic songs held a tender spot in his heart.

When his first marriage ended in divorce, he was introduced to Lillian Williams who had just moved to St. George with four children – three of them were teenagers. Who would ever take this on? Norman did. He filled a lonely part in Lillian’s life and was an answer to her prayers.

They had only been married a short time when he was diagnosed with a football-size tumor attached to his kidney. After six surgeries in six months, he fully recovered as he attests this to be a divine miracle. He was a man of great faith and loved his heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ.

Norman worked for Larkin Mortuary in Salt Lake City and upon moving to St. George got a job at Terracor in getting Bloomington settled, and then as a janitor for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints until he retired.

Norman and Lillian took care of their mothers and upon their passing received a mission call to the Gunnison Prison where they were an instrument in the lives of many in getting “their boys” on the right track to successful futures. This was the highlight of their lives as they developed relationships that will stretch into eternity.

Norman will be remembered for his quick wit, his bird calls, his Johnson blood and Fox News.

Norman was preceded in death by his parents and three sisters, a stepson, Kenny Williams and his wife Lillian only 3 months earlier on June 1. From then on, Norman went downhill fast missing his true love.

Surviving stepchildren include Wendy Sandberg (Bob), Karen Dowd (Larry), Larry Williams (Alyce), Chrissy Williams and Penny Williams.

The family wishes to express their appreciation to Beehive Homes and SunTree Hospice for their loving care in Norman’s last days.

Funeral services

• A graveside service will be held Saturday, Sept. 1, at the St. George Cemetery at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, Norman wishes all who can to contribute to the Missionary Fund in which he found his greatest joy.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of McMillan Mortuary, 435-688-8880.

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

Aug. 29, 1936 – Aug. 26, 2018

Janice Marie Dawson, 81, passed away Aug. 26, 2018, in St. George, Utah. She was born Aug. 29, 1936, in Springfield, Colorado, to Estil and Irene Hazel Owens Caldwell.

She married J. Ward Dawson on Sept. 16, 1956, at United Methodist Church in Downey, California.

Janice and her parents moved to California in 1937. A graduate of Downey High School (Class of ’55), she married her high school sweetheart, Ward, in 1956. They raised three daughters in Downey & Villa Park, California, before moving to Utah in 1993.

She was an accomplished quilter who enjoyed sharing her talents with her family and friends. She was active in her community through various volunteer efforts, in particular her pet therapy visits to Ridgeview Gardens for almost eight years.

Janice is survived by her husband, Ward, of Ivins, Utah; daughters, Debbie (Merrill) Gilling of Scottsdale, Arizona, Wendy Dawson of New York City, New York, and Julie (Rob) Eriksen of New Braunfels, Texas; granddaughters, Cheryl Gilling of Phoenix, Arizona, Kristi (Larry) Belew of Glendale, Arizona, Stephanie Eriksen of Smithville, Texas, and Katie Eriksen of College Station, Texas; great-grandson, Oliver Rose of Smithville, Texas, and great-granddaughter, Riley Belew of Glendale, Arizona.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Ronald Caldwell of Dillon, Montana.

A celebration of life is being planned for later in September.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Janice’s name to the Ivins Animal Shelter & Adoption Center, 474 N. 200 West, Ivins, UT 84738.

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.

April 19, 1938 – Aug. 25, 2018

Eleanor Ann Shelby Hales, 80, passed away Aug. 25, 2018, in St. George, Utah. She was born April 19, 1938, in Spring Canyon, Utah, to Lenard H. and Consuelo Jacobsen Shelby. She married Dennis Grey Hales in Brigham City, Utah, July 4, 1968.

Eleanor worked in Bountiful, Utah, and retired to St. George in 1993.

She is survived by her husband, Dennis Hales; son, Douglas K. Lloyd of El Paso, Texas; daughter, Nikki Lee Hales of St. George, Utah; son, Michael Hales of Brigham City, Utah; and daughter, Terri Scheidt of San Diego, California.

You will forever be in our hearts. Fly free Mama.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held Friday, Aug. 31, at 11 a.m., with a visitation prior from 9:30-10:30 a.m., at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 West St. George Blvd., St. George, 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.

Sept. 1, 1922 – Aug. 24, 2018

Roy George Parker, 95 (soon to be 96), passed away unexpectedly on Aug. 24, 2018, at 9:49 p.m. He was born in a brick home in Ogden, Utah, on Sept. 1, 1922, to George and Eunice Love Parker.

He met his wife, Emma Norine Neilson, at a dance in the Ogden City Ballroom. He asked her if she remembered his name. She didn’t so he told her it was Roy which rhymes with boy and what do you do when you park a car, you pull it up to the curb and then you Parker (park her). She never forgot his name.

They were married on Sept. 11, 1942, and were sealed in the Logan temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1964. They had three children: Jeffry (born in 1943), Jill (born in 1947) and Kelly (born in 1957).

Before Norine, his first love was a dog named Benny. Dad said it was love at first sight.

Roy’s dad worked on the railroad until the Depression, when they had to move to the farm in West Point, Utah, which they shared with his Uncle Grant. There was no electricity or indoor plumbing. When Roy was 10 years old his job was to fetch water from the well and take the cows to the pasture.

He moved to Long Beach, California, with his mother. While there he graduated from Poly Tech High School at the age of 18. He loved living in Long Beach.

Roy lived with his family until he was 20. Norine wanted to know why he moved out. He told her because I married you.

During World War II he didn’t want to be drafted so he enlisted in the Army Air Corps on Oct. 28, 1942. A month after he was married, he was sent to Yuma, Arizona, where he was trained to be an aircraft mechanic. Part of his job was to maintain bombers to ensure they were capable of transporting and launching atomic bombs. His service was terminated on Nov. 28, 1945.

After the war he worked at Hill Air Force Base doing the job he loved most – being an aircraft mechanic. He retired in 1976 and moved to St. George, Utah.

Roy was intelligent. He liked to read. He of course was a mechanic. He could have written a book on home repair. He enjoyed painting, carving birds and playing the guitar by ear (no lessons). He used to fish but decided it was too much work and would rather catch his fish at the market. He loved to do crossword puzzles. He fought to get rid of Daylight Savings Time till his dying day.

The hardest day of his life was the day Norine died. He missed her.

Roy is survived by his children: Jeff (Ilvia), Jill (Dennis) Thayn, and Kelly (Wendy); 11 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Norine.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held on his birthday, Saturday, Sept. 1, at 2 p.m., at the Metcalf Mortuary Chapel, 288 West St. George Blvd., St. George, Utah.
• A visitation will be held Saturday, prior to services, from 1-1:45 p.m. at the mortuary.
• Interment with military honors will follow at Tonaquint Cemetery, 1777 South Dixie Drive, St. George, 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.

Oct. 9, 1926 – Aug. 28, 2018

Capt. Douglas Leonard Cline passed away quietly in his sleep the afternoon of Aug. 28, 2018. He achieved the seasoned age of 91. Doug was born on Oct. 9, 1926, to Lena Delphine and Lloyd Alan Cline in Dodge City, Kansas.

In 1943 he married Dorothy Louise Serber, of Denver, Colorado. They had one son, Douglas Lloyd Cline.

On Aug. 30, 1950, he married Beth Marjorie Larsen of Salt Lake City, Utah. They had three children: DeeLayne, Karen Lee and Dirk Leonard.

Doug’s one great love in life was flying. He enjoyed an illustrious 35-year career with United Airlines. He retired in 1986 and spent the next six years flying Learjets for private companies. If he wasn’t flying for a living, he was building, restoring and flying his own planes, flying just for the pure joy of it. In the mix, he also found time to work on and build cars and boats.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Marjorie, and daughter, DeeLayne. He is survived by son, Doug Cline, and his wife, Lana; daughter, Karen Lee, and her husband, David Butler; and son, Dirk Cline, and his wife, Karen. Doug was blessed with 13 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services

• Graveside services will be held Saturday, Sept. 1, at 11 a.m., at the St. George City Cemetery.
• A visitation will be held Saturday, prior to services, from 10-10:30 a.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 West St. George Blvd., St. George, 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.

Dec. 26, 1922 — Aug. 30, 2018 

Rosemary Spears Church Lee, born Dec. 26, 1922, in Kansas City, Missouri, was called back to her heavenly home Aug. 30, 2018, at age 95.

Rosemary was the middle child of William Everett Spears and Vera Isadore Pearce. Rosemary served a mission in Chicago, Illinois, for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where she met her first husband, Warren Church.

Warren contracted a disease in the mission field and passed away just three years after their marriage. Rosemary later met and married Richard Morgan Lee, and they had one son, Kevin Richard Lee.

Rosemary was very active in her church, serving in many capacities as well as actively serving in her community. She worked for many years at Zion’s Bank, a job she loved. She and her husband served two LDS missions to Nauvoo, Illinois. That was a highlight of her life and was spoken of often in their home.

She is survived by her husband, Richard of Hurricane, and son Kevin (Kris) Lee of Jackson, Wyoming; her sisters Jane Cooley and Sylvia Spears; grandchildren Stacy (Mike) Allen, Hana (Morgan) McCain, Levi (Stacie) Scott, Raliegh (Sharyl) Scott and 10 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, stepmother, two sisters and two brothers.

Funeral services

• Funeral services will be held Thursday, Sept. 6, at 11 a.m. at the Hurricane 14th Ward Chapel, 272 S. 700 West, Hurricane.
• There will be a visitation Wednesday, Sept. 5, from 6-8 p.m. at the Spilsbury Hurricane Valley Mortuary, 25 N. 2000 West, Hurricane. There will also be visitations prior to services Sept. 6 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the church.
• Interment will take place at the Hurricane 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.

May 26, 1928 — Aug. 29, 2018

Our beloved Mom, Beth Atkin Cox, passed away of natural causes the morning of Aug. 29 at age 90 in Prescott Valley, Arizona, where she lived with her daughter, Janet Cox Legler.

Beth was born May 26, 1928, in St. George, Utah, the fourth daughter and youngest child of goodly parents, William and Lula Palmer Atkin. Beth attended Dixie schools, finishing with an associate degree in humanities. Beth enjoyed school and was a good student. She especially enjoyed her participation in band and orchestra.

On Aug. 26, 1948, she married John Bevalere Cox, whom she had known all her life, in the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ St. George temple. Together they had six children. Those children gave them over 30 grandchildren and many great grandchildren.

Beth was a strong woman — witty, optimistic, and hard-working. She was kind and fair but did not suffer fools gladly. Beth’s last year or two were difficult, but she never lost her capacity for witty observation and repartee. It was a point of great personal satisfaction that she had always had a job since she was a young girl, cleaning a house for a neighbor.

Beth worked for more than 20 years as a baker in the Mesa Public School System. This job allowed her to be home when her children were home, which was important to her. Additionally, she was justly famous for her wedding cakes. Beth baked and decorated wedding cakes for receptions all over the Salt River Valley in Arizona. Beth was generous with her baking talents, frequently giving small decorated cakes to friends and neighbors. Her honor and integrity at work and in her cake business were unquestioned.

Beth’s talents also included making and sharing candy and hand-dipped chocolates. Her 1 pound boxes of mixed chocolates and candies traveled far and wide at Christmas time, as well as satisfying a craving for the best of many a sweet-tooth in her neighborhood.

Beth was an artist in every work she took in hand. She knitted, embroidered, sewed and crocheted. Many of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were happy recipients of her afghans. She taught her skills to her daughters, who are happy to carry on her traditions.

Beth loved birds, especially hummingbirds. She loved cowboy music. Mom had a saying for everything. Sometimes she would sing a snatch of a popular song as her commentary. She loved the red rocks of her native Dixie. The red Sugarloaf, with its white “Dixie,” against a blue sky decorated with white clouds, was her favorite view. Though she lived away from St. George for 45 years, she never stopped thinking of herself as a “misplaced Utahn.” She and Bev were happy to be able to move back to St. George when they retired. They had 16 good years living in a house halfway between her childhood home and his childhood home.

Beth was a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She served in many capacities. She loved the young primary children, managing the kitchen at Camp Lo-Mia for her stake’s girls camp and relief society bazaars. She was a faithful visiting teacher.

Our undying gratitude goes to Janet, who cared for Mom during her last years. Janet’s loving and unselfish dedication to Mom was without condition.

Beth is preceded in death by her husband, John Bevalere Cox, her parents and her siblings: Floyd, Velva and Sylva. She is survived by her sister, Luen; her children: Kenneth Russell (June), Paul Atkin, Jolene Matheson (Phil), Janet Legler (Ivan), Glen Allen (Linda), Cynthia Cottam (Tim) and numerous grand- and great-grandchildren.

Funeral services

• Graveside services will be held Wednesday, Sept. 5, at 10 a.m. at the St. George Cemetery, 650 E. Tabernacle St.

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.