Obituary - James Hugh Anderson

Dec. 15, 1958-Jan. 28, 2023

After a lifetime defined by deep dedication to his family, Jim Anderson, 64, passed away on Jan. 28, 2023, in St. George, Utah, after a valiant fight against cancer. He was surrounded by his loving wife and children, who so tenderly and meticulously cared for him until the end.

Jim was born in Stockton, California, on Dec. 15, 1958, to Don and Charmaine Anderson. His childhood was filled with backpacking trips with his dad, brothers and brother-in-law, playing basketball, boy scouts, family reunions in Idaho and working a paper route. Jim served an LDS mission in Kentucky. He attended BYU and Utah Technical College (UVU) in Provo where he studied banking and finance.

Jim married Gayle Van Valkenburg on June 9, 1982, and they had one child together, Jamie. Although they later divorced, Jim remained a part of his daughter’s life and loved spending time with her on adventures in Rock Springs, Wyoming.

Jim married Julie Mitchell Adams on May 9, 1992. From day one, Jim stepped in as a loving father to Julie’s children, Jaechon and Jayden, giving them a beautiful, stable childhood and life. He was an amazing dad, the most devoted husband, and a remarkably honest and stoic man. He was a foundational pillar for his family, one that held them all up, one that will never be replaced.

Jim enjoyed a successful career in finance and also endeavored in many entrepreneurial adventures with his wife. No matter the project, Jim was always up for the challenge, and they made a phenomenal team. He and Julie created a lifetime of memories as they worked together to buy, remodel and sell various ventures and homes. In turn, he impacted all those who came in contact with his kind, reliable service to the community.

Jim enjoyed traveling with his family and was able to see some of the most beautiful corners of the world. Jim was a loyal Utah Jazz fan and lover of grocery shopping, always throwing anything labeled as “new” into the cart. He was an animal lover, and among many cats and dogs, also cared for his beehive and frilled dragon — two hobbies he developed later in his life.

Although he had many other talents and interests, Jim will be most remembered for his knack for making everyone he met feel welcome, comfortable and cared for. He had an incredible sense of humor that could instantly change a bad day into one with laughter. He spent every day loving and putting his people first. His guidance, insight, and unconditional love will be so very missed.

Jim is survived by his best friend and wife of 30 years Julie and their children Jaechon and Jayden; his daughter and son-in-law Jamie and Stephen Mortensen and their children Landon, Levi, Logan and Lucas; his brother and sister Jeff Anderson and Bonnie Nichol; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Michael Anderson and his sister Cherie Hamrick.

The family would like to express their sincerest gratitude to Dr. Terence Rhodes and Jen, and all the nurses at the oncology infusion center who made this very difficult journey easier to bear. A private memorial service will be held in Jim’s honor on Friday, Feb. 10, at the family’s home. In lieu of flowers, his family asks you to donate in Jim’s memory to The Humane Society of Utah or Minkahz NETs Mission. Arrangements are under the care of Metcalf Mortuary, (435) 673-4221. Visit the Metcalf Mortuary website for condolences, complete obituary and funeral listings. https://everloved.com/life-of/jim-anderson-saint-george-ut/obituary/?flow=201.

Learn more about Jim on the Van Valkenburg Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/vanvalkenburgfamilyhistory/families/anderson/james-hugh-anderson.

Obituary - LaRue Corbridge Kendall

LaRue Kendall

October 13, 1925 — February 17, 2008

LaRue C. Kendall Rock Springs - LaRue C. Kendall, 82, of Rock Springs, died Sunday, February 17, 2008 at her home after a short illness. She was born October 13, 1925 in Preston, Idaho, the daughter of James and Mary Johnson Corbridge. She attended schools in Preston and graduated from Preston High School with the class of 1943. She also attended Ricks College in Rexburg, Idaho. LaRue married Loyal E. Kendall on January 29, 1947 in the Logan LDS Temple, Logan, Utah. She was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Her interests were spending time in the outdoors and with her family, and entertaining the grandkids.

Survivors include her husband, Loyal of Rock Springs; six sons, Sid Kendall, Dennis Kendall and wife Mary Ann, Marvin Kendall and wife Barb and Clair Kendall all of Rock Springs, Merlin Kendall and wife Barbara and Dean Kendall and wife Susie all of Green River; two brothers, Oris Corbridge and wife Alice of Sparks, Nevada, and Resse Corbridge and wife Deanna of Sandy, Utah; four sisters, Barbra Keller, Verdeen Larson and husband Orlando all of Preston, Idaho, Nelene Taylor and Merida Taylor both of Ogden, Utah; seven grandsons, eight granddaughters, five great-grandsons, and twelve great-granddaughters; numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Mary Corbridge, brothers, Melvin and Douglas Corbridge, sister, Doris Ransom, and grandson Spencer D. Kendall.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Friday, February 22, 2008 at the LDS Stake Center, 2055 Edgar, Rock Springs, under the direction of Bishop Blaine Johnson. Friends may call 6-8 p.m. Thursday, February 21, 2008 at Fox Funeral Home, 2800 Commercial Way, Rock Springs, and one hour prior to the services at the church. Interment will take place in the Rock Springs Municipal Cemetery. Family request that in lieu of flowers, donations to be made to Hospice of Sweetwater County, 809 Thompson St. Suite D, Rock Springs, WY 82901.

Learn more about LaRue on the Van Valkenburg Family History website:
https://sites.google.com/site/vanvalkenburgfamilyhistory/families/kendall/larue-corbridge.

Obituary - Sidney Loyal Kendall

Sidney Loyal Kendall

November 20, 1947 — November 8, 2024

Rock Springs

Sidney Loyal Kendall was born on November 20, 1947 in Preston Idaho and was the first child of Loyal and LaRue Kendall. He left his life on earth on November 8, 2024 at home after a short illness.

Sid grew up in Rock Springs Wyoming along his five younger brothers. Atter graduating from Western Wyoming Community College in Reliance, he transferred to the University of Wyoming. He was drafted into the Army during the Viet Nam War and achieved the rank of E4 specialist before being discharged. After returning home, he worked for FMC as a Surface Operator and Mechanic until his retirement in 2009.

Family was always the center of Sid's world. His best times and adventures were with his brothers and parents. He was loved as the Favorite Uncle by two generations of kids in the Kendall clan and always made the time he spent with them special and fun. Sid watched over our campfires and was the lead voice in our campfire chorus during our summer family camping trips. Words that family use to summarize Sid include: Ray Bans, t-shirts, 501 Jeans, Levi Jacket, music, playing the air guitar, The Beatles, blue Fords, and a tooth pick in his mouth, and a Bud bottle for a microphone.

Sid had a love of music. His favorite was anything rock 'n' roll, especially the Beatles. He loved to sing along with the radio or anyone else. Sid was also known for his lifelong love of catsup, which began at an early age. In his world, there were not many foods which were not improved by the addition of catsup. He was a huge Cowboy Joe supporter and an avid football, basketball and NASCAR fan. In the Kendall family, hunting season is a special time of the year. Sid mostly hunted with family members and was always pleased if he was able to harvest his game with his black widow bow.

Sid leaves behind a brokenhearted family including his brothers Dennis (Mary Ann), Merlin (Barbara), Marvin (Barb), Dean (Susan) and Clair (Cindy) Kendall, as well as 14 nieces and nephews and all of their children.

Sid will be welcomed into heaven by his father and mother Loyal and LaRue, as well as many aunts, uncles, and his nephew Spencer.

Services will be held at 1 pm, Thursday, November 14, 2024 at Fox Funeral Home, 2800 Commercial Way, Rock Springs, WY. A viewing will be held one hour prior to services.

Military Honors and interment will take place in the Rock Springs Municipal Cemetery.

In honor of Sid, please wear your Wyoming Cowboys and Beatles t- shirts and jeans.

Condolences for the family can be left at www.foxfh.com.

Learn more about Sidney on the Van Valkenburg Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/vanvalkenburgfamilyhistory/families/kendall/sidney-loyal-kendall.

Obituary - Rachel Etta Gardner Longerbone

"Mrs. Una Longerbone died Tues. morning at or near Packwood of small pox. Leaves husband and three children. . . . ."

Jefferson County Republican

May 17, 1901, 1-4.

Learn more about Rachel on the Van Valkenburg Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/vanvalkenburgfamilyhistory/families/gardner/william-gardner.

Obituary - Mary Van Valkenburg Koritnik

Mary Koritnik

October 23, 1939 — April 2, 2024

Cheyenne

Mary "Snooks" Koritnik, born Mary Van Valkenburg on October 23, 1939, in Rock Springs, Wyoming, passed away on April 2, 2024, in Cheyenne, Wyoming surrounded by her loving family. She married Joe Koritnik on September 25, 1959 and he lovingly nicknamed her Snooks.

She was a dedicated revenue agent in the bankruptcy department of the IRS for over 30 years before retiring. Mary was known for her exceptional kindness, sense of humor, and unwavering love for her family.

In her earlier years, Mary took a bookkeeping class as a housewife and astounded everyone by achieving the highest score amongst a group of accountants. This achievement was just one testament to her intelligence and diligence. Despite her petite frame, Mary was a force to be reckoned with.

Mary's proudest accomplishment always remained the same - raising her three daughters. She was truly the heart of her family, always there to offer guidance and support whenever needed. Her memory will live on through the countless lives she touched.

Mary found joy in simple pleasures like daisies and sunflowers, writing poetry, reading books, and listening to country music; she would often be found dancing around the house. She cherished moments spent camping with her daughters and grandchildren, creating lasting memories filled with love and laughter.

Mary is reunited in peace with her parents Galen and Florence Van Valkenburg; sisters Eva Tolar and Jane Van Valkenburg; and brothers Albert, Galen, and Robert Van Valkenburg; along with many other loved ones.

She leaves behind her beloved husband Joseph Koritnik; brother Howard Van Valkenburg; daughters Kim (Keith) Wilkins, Ricki (Keith) Rekow, Ronda (Tom) Wilson; grandchildren Steven (Rebecca), Christopher (Desirae), Kevin (Andrea), Michelle (Mac), Amy (JJ), Antonio (Amanda), Teresa (Andy), Crystal, Joseph (Kelsey), Thomas (Hannah); great-grandchildren Austin, Kenzie Jo, McKenzie, Chase, Shea, Paige, Brogen, Samuel, Hannah, Austin B, Oliver, Charlie, Addie, Tristan, Catherine, Rachel, Liam and Eli. Great-Great Grandchild-Clayne.

Mary's legacy of love and strength will forever be cherished by those who were fortunate enough to know her. Her absence will be deeply felt but her spirit will continue to shine brightly through the lives she touched. May she rest in eternal peace knowing she was dearly loved and will be profoundly missed.

Learn more about Mary on the Van Valkenburg Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/vanvalkenburgfamilyhistory/families/vanvalkenburg/mary-rebecca-vanvalkenburg

Firmage Family History Website Log In

The Firmage Family History website has been updated and now requires a log in. Please log in to the site here: Firmage Family History

Van Valkenburg Family History Website Log In

The Van Valkenburg Family History website has been updated and now requires a log in. Please log in to the site here: Van Valkenburg Family History

Obituary - Barbara M. Appelhans

Barbara M. Appelhans

Jun 4, 1925 - Jul 9, 2011

Funeral services for Barbara M. Appelhans, 86, will be held 10:00 a.m., Friday, July 15, 2011 at St. Margaret's Catholic Church with Father Andrew Duncan officiating. Interment will follow at Mountain View Cemetery. A rosary for Barbara will be held at 7:00 p.m., Thursday, July 14th at Davis Funeral Home with a visitation preceding the rosary at 6:30 p.m.

Barbara died July 9, 2011 at Help for Health Hospice Home in Riverton, Wyoming.

She was born June 4, 1925, in Casper, Wyoming to Samuel F. and Helen (Collver) Burtch. Barbara grew up on a ranch near Alcova, Wyoming before moving to Casper to attend schools. She graduated from Natrona HS in 1942. She then moved to Riverton and worked for J.C. Penneys.

On November 27, 1944, Barbara married Frank Appelhans. She and her husband farmed in the Riverton valley until 1978 when they retired. The couple then built a house and moved to Riverton. During their retirement they enjoyed traveling throughout most of the United States including Alaska and Hawaii.

She was a member of the Riverton Council of Catholic Women.

Mrs. Appelhans enjoyed spending time with her family, fishing, rock hunting, gardening, and traveling. She also enjoyed photography, and embroidery, and logged thousands of miles walking with her friend, Betty.

Survivors include her sons, Dennis and his wife, Minnie of Riverton, Brian and his wife, Ida of Denver, daughter-in-law, Sandra Appelhans of Lander; grandchildren, Lisa Appelhans, Annj'e Esvelt and her husband, Ryan, Warren Appelhans and his wife, Jamie, Heather Kuzara and her husband, Mike, Dustee Martinet and her husband, Frank, Joe Appelhans and his wife Karla, Wade Appelhans and his wife Michelle, Aaron Appelhans and his wife Aimee and Barry Appelhans; great grandchildren, Cody and Audrey Esvelt, Gracie and Taryn Appelhans, Sophia and Clara Kuzara, Ethan Martinet, Cade, Evan and Jace Appelhans, Riley and Kolter Appelhans, Madelynn, Donovan, and Aubreigh Appelhans; sister, Joan White of Rock Springs, and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Mrs. Appelhans was preceded in death by her husband, Frank, son, Gerald, great granddaughter, Hailey Esvelt, sister, Donna Evans, and her parents, Samuel Burtch and Helen Dougherty.

Learn more about Barbara on the Firmage Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/firmagefamilyhistory/home

Photograph - William Gardner with Daughters, Phoebe and Maude

A photograph of William Gardner with his daughters Phoebe and Maude.

Photograph is available on the Van Valkenburg Family History website:
https://sites.google.com/site/vanvalkenburgfamilyhistory/families/gardner/phoebe-gardner-vanvalkenburg.

Jane Ann Van Valkenburg Obituary 1937-2016

September 28, 1937 ~ January 6, 2016

Our mother, sister and grandmother ended her life's journey peacefully on January 6, 2016, after enjoying an eventful and full life.

Jane was born on September 28, 1937, the sixth child to Galen B. Van Valkenburg and Florence E. Rees. She grew up roaming the hills in the area north of Rock Springs and enjoyed complete freedom while exploring an imaginative, care-free childhood. Jane attended grade school, junior high and high school in Rock Springs. She graduated from high school in 1955. In high school she served as Secretary to the student body and was active in many activities.

Jane married Larry A. Johnson in June of 1957 and had three children, Laurie, Stuwert and Scott. Jane and Larry were divorced in 1967 and Larry died in 1975. Following the divorce, Jane moved to Ogden, Utah to attend a Radiologic Technology program at St. Benedict's Hospital. She completed the program, became certified and graduated from Weber State University with an Associates Degree. She worked for several years at St. Benedict's Hospital in radiology.

Jane remarried to Joy A. Ward in 1972 in Elko, Nevada and divorced him in 1992.

She continued her education at the University of Utah Medical Center and became certified in Nuclear Medicine. Because she enjoyed learning, Jane completed a baccalaureate degree from Weber State University and was hired by Weber State University to teach in the Radiologic Technology program. While working full time, Jane pursued further education and received a master's degree from Utah State University and a doctoral degree from the University of Utah in educational administration.

Appointed to the position of Department Chair of Radiologic Sciences, our mother worked at Weber State University for 33 years, retiring with the rank of Professor Emerita. During this time, she was very active in her professional organizations on a state, regional and national basis. She served as a Board member of the national certifying agency for eight years and the Board of the national accrediting agency for three years. Jane was instrumental in organizing and developing a national educators' consortium within her profession; developing and implementing an advanced level technologist's educational program that has a national impact in medical imaging; and had written numerous research papers that were published.

Although Jane had left Wyoming due to her schooling and work, she held the wide open spaces of Wyoming in her heart. Upon retiring, she bought property in Lander, build a home and moved back to her beloved state.

Among Jane's hobbies are arrowhead hunting, fishing, hiking, camping, reading and teasing her younger sister, Mary. She also enjoyed listening to all kinds of music, art and ballet.

Survivors are Laurie Winters (Greg), Stuwert Johnson; and two grandsons, Tyler and Chase Johnson; her sister, Mary Koritnik (Joseph); and brother, Howard Van Valkenburg. She is preceded in death by her parents, a sister Eva (Bill); and brothers, Galen, Robert (Enid) and Albert (Alice) Van Valkenburg; sister-in-law, Florence; and her son, Scott.

Cremation has already taken place. Her ashes will be spread to the winds in the red desert at a later date.