Obituary - Richard Larry Hickerson

R. LARRY HICKERSON

Services for R. Larry Hickerson, 45, of 1317 McKinley St., Rock Springs were conducted Monday, Dec. 20 at the Our Lad of Sorrows Catholic Church. The Rev. Eugene Sullivan officiated.

Burial was in the Paul J. Wataha Memorial Park.

Mr. Hickerson died Thursday, Dec. 16 at his home following a six-month illness. He was born in Rock Springs on Feb. 12, 1937, the son of Richard Joseph and Ansta Phillips Hickerson. He attended schools in Rock Springs and was a graduate of the Rock Springs High School with the class of 1955. Mr. Hickerson graduated from the University of Wyoming in 1964 with an engineering degree.

He married the former Nancy Lee Friel in Rock Springs on Sept. 6, 1958. Mr. Hickerson was employed as an engineer for the FMC Company for the past 17 years. He was a member of the Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church.

Survivors include his wife, Nancy; his mother, Ansta Hickerson; one son, Steven Larry Hickerson; four daughters, Mrs. Michael (Cheryl Lee) Mackey, Mrs. Neil (Nancy Lenee) West, Ruth Lynn Hickerson and Cathy Laine Hickerson all of Rock Springs; one sister, Mrs. James (Marilynn) Noble of Rock Springs; four grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. Mr. Hickerson was preceded in death by his father.

Rock Springs Daily Rocket-Miner, Dec 25, 1982.

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

https://sites.google.com/site/vanvalkenburgfamilyhistory/families/hickerson/richard-larry-hickerson.

Obituary - Alice Mae Gates Van Valkenburg

Alice Van Valkenburg

Visitation: Krause Funeral Home, 9000 West Capitol Drive, Milwaukee, Sunday, September 11, 1:00-2:00 PM.

Service: Krause Funeral Home, 9000 West Capitol Drive, Milwaukee, Sunday, September 11, 2:00 PM.

Passed away peacefully Wednesday, September 7, 2011. Age 88. Loving wife of Albert for 68 years. Caring mother of Richard (Susan). Grandma of 2. Great-grandma of 1. Also survived by a sister, other devoted relatives and friends. Preceded in death by many other loved relatives and friends. Gathering at the Funeral Home, Sunday, September 11 from 1:00 PM–2:00 PM. Memorial Service at 2:00 PM. Private committal at Highland Memorial Park, New Berlin. Memorials are appreciated to the American Cancer Society or your local animal shelter.

“You were a friend to many and dearly missed.”

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

https://sites.google.com/site/vanvalkenburgfamilyhistory/families/gates/alice-gates.

Obituary - Nancy Lee Friel Hickerson

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Nancy Lee Friel Hickerson, 89, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, on September 20, 2025, in Casper, Wyoming. She was a resident of Casper for the past seven years and a former resident of Rock Springs, Wyoming.

Nancy Lee was born on July 29, 1936, in Rock Springs, Wyoming, the daughter of Milton Blair Friel and Eva Virginia Dominiski Friel. She attended Rock Springs High School and graduated in 1954. After being awarded a scholarship to Holy Cross Hospital School of Nursing, Nancy briefly moved to Salt Lake City, UT where she earned her nursing degree. Always a trailblazer, Nancy also helped lead her nursing school basketball team to championship titles in 1955 and 1956.

Upon graduation, Nancy returned to Rock Springs, where she reconnected with her former classmate, Larry Hickerson, at a dance. They wed on September 6, 1958, and continued to enjoy music and dance throughout their marriage – often in the middle of the kitchen floor.

Nancy also began working at Memorial Hospital Sweetwater County, where she stayed for many years. She held several positions including Bedside Nurse, Surgical and Medical Nurse, Nurse House Supervisor, Director of Miners Clinic, Director of Employee Health and Infection Control, and a front-line educator for nurses and nurses’ aides in training. As a proud coal miner’s daughter, The Miners Clinic, which she helped start, was especially dear to her heart.

Nancy also worked as a nurse for long-time Rock Springs physician, Dr. Ludwig Prych. Many Rock Springs residents have reported to Nancy’s children that if they had to get a shot, they hoped it would be from Nurse Nancy.

Community and service were close to Nancy’s heart. She was an active parishioner of Our Lady of Sorrow’s Church, where she was one of the first women to be named a Eucharistic Minister. Additionally, Nancy was an engaged member Saint Christopher’s Circle and the Philanthropic Education Organization (PEO) – a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting women’s educational aspirations. She also volunteered for the Meals in Wheels program, Memorial Hospital, and the Senior Citizen’s Center.

In her free time, Nancy was known to enjoy lively games of bridge and cherished the many friendships she cultivated in various bridge clubs. She found joy in outdoor activities, reading, music, travelling, and was an avid attendee of theater, arts, and sporting events. Above all, Nancy loved spending time with her family, whom she adored – especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include one son, Steven Hickerson and his wife Sandy of Rock Springs, Wyoming; four daughters, Cheryl Mackey and her husband Mike of Casper, Wyoming; Nancy Harns and her husband Bill of Casper; Ruth Hickerson of Denver, Colorado; and Cathy Montgomery and her husband Paul of Lansing, Kansas; twelve grandchildren: Joel, Lenee, Larry, Eva, Ryan, Lauren, Jered, Lee, Kimberly, Chris, Colten and Demarin; 25 great grandchildren, one great-great grandchild and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Richard Larry Hickerson, her parents Milton and Eva Dominiski Friel, and two brothers, Hugh Friel and Milton Friel.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations be made to the Nursing Program at Western Wyoming Community College. These can be sent in memory of Nancy L Hickerson to the Community Relations Department, Western Wyoming Community College, 2500 College Drive, Rock Springs WY 82901.

A Mass of Christian burial will be conducted at 11:00 AM Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, 116 Broadway, Rock Springs, Wyoming. A Rosary will be recited at 4:00 PM Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at the Vase Funeral Chapels. Graveside Services and Interment will be at the Rock Springs Municipal Cemetery. Friends may call one hour prior to the service at the church.

Nancy’s warm spirit touched the lives of many and her legacy of love and service lives on and her family and community. Friends and family are invited to leave condolences at www.vasefuneralhomes.com.

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

https://sites.google.com/site/vanvalkenburgfamilyhistory/families/friel/nancy-lee-friel.

Obituary - Joseph Albin Koritnik

Joseph Koritnik

February 26, 1936 — July 21, 2025

Cheyenne, WY

Joseph Albin Koritnik, 89, passed July 21, 2025, at Davis Hospice Center in Cheyenne.

He was born February 26, 1936, to Louis and Josephine Koritnik (Tomich). He grew up roaming the hills around Blairtown, south of Rock Springs. Joe enjoyed riding broncs, driving stock cars and working on the family ranch in Eden Valley Wyoming. Joe came from a family of three boys and was the middle child. After his father passed and his mother remarried he was blessed with two sisters and another brother.

He joined the Army and became a paratrooper. He spent his enlistment stationed in Germany. After Germany he returned to Rock Springs and married the love of his life, Mary Rebecca VanValkenburg on September 25, 1959. They had three daughters. Joe and Mary moved to Cheyenne and he began working with his brothers under Koritnik Construction.

Joe and Mary enjoyed taking their family and a neighborhood kid or two camping or boating almost every weekend during the summer. When grandkids came along they started taking them. Joe enjoyed swimming (he was a lifeguard and was on a diver rescue team in his earlier years), kids, dogs, hunting, fishing and family gatherings. Never was there a kid or dog who didn’t instantly take to Joe. No one could ask for a more caring husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather or great-great grandfather, uncle or friend. He was always ready to take his grandkids and great grandkids camping, fishing, or hunting and was willing to help anyone in need. He loved his family and had given nick names to many of them. People seldom knew is grandkids’ and great grandkids’ real names. He even gave names to his nieces and nephews.

Joe is survived by his three daughters, Kim Wilkins (Keith) of Cheyenne, Ricki Rekow (Keith) of Gillette, and Ronda Wilson (Tom) of Cheyenne. Grandchildren, Steven Wilkins (Rebecca), Christopher Epler (Desirae), Kevin Wilkins (Andrea), Michelle Wilson (Mac), Amy Frink (JJ), Crystal Wilson, Joseph Wilson (Kelsey), Thomas Wilson (Hannah), Antonio Padilla (Amanda) and Teresa Padilla. Great grandchildren, Austin Epler, Chase Wilson, McKenzie Wilson, Kenzie Jo Epler, Austin Burgman, Oliver Burgman, Shea Frink, Paige Frink, Brogen Frink, Samuel Wilkins, Hanna Wilkins, Charlie Tafoya, Addie Tafoya, Tristan (Moose) Tafoya, Catherine Wilson, Rachel Wilson, Liam Wilson, Eli Wilson, and Joshua Wilson. Great-Great grandsons Brantley Peters and Clayne Wilson. Sisters Mary Jo (Jim), Judy Abram (David) and Brother Eddie Westbrook (Lenora) along with many special nieces and nephews. Joe was greatly loved by his family and those who considered him their grandpa.

Joe leaves behind a legacy of unconditional love, adventure and memories to his family and to anyone who knew him. He has gone to be with his beloved wife, and is just out of sight until we are together again. Love you so much!

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Cheyenne Animal Shelter or St. Jude’s.

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

https://sites.google.com/site/vanvalkenburgfamilyhistory/families/koritnik/joseph-albin-koritnik.

Obituary - Paul Van Valkenburg

Paul (Pablo) Van Valkenburg, 77, passed away on Monday, June 23, 2025 at his home in Green River. He was born on July 6, 1947 in Rock Springs, Wyoming, the son of Galen and Winniefred Van Valkenburg.

Pablo was preceded in death by his wife Darlene. He is survived by his son Corey Van Valkenburg and wife Lynn of Green River.

Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

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

https://sites.google.com/site/vanvalkenburgfamilyhistory/families/vanvalkenburg/paul-van-valkenburg.

Obituary - Brandon John Marostica

Brandon John Marostica, age 44, of Orem, Utah, passed away on February 20, 2025. He was born on August 18, 1980, in Provo, Utah, to Martin John and RaeLynn Marostica. Brandon was a loving son, brother, uncle, and friend who will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Brandon’s life began with a remarkable story of perseverance. As a young child, he fought a courageous battle against liver cancer, emerging as a survivor and showing incredible strength from the very beginning of his life. He spent much of his childhood in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, where he attended school and developed lifelong passions that would shape his adult life.

After graduating from Lewisburg Area High School, Brandon followed his deep faith and sense of service by serving a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in the California Arcadia Spanish-speaking mission. His mission helped to shape him into the kind and loving individual he became.

Brandon later pursued a degree in Political Science at Utah Valley University. His studies laid the foundation for his career, but his entrepreneurial spirit led him to greater success. He became the owner and founder of Imagine Real Peace, a business born from his love of collecting memorabilia. Brandon’s passion for music, especially jam bands like Phish, Grateful Dead, Van Morrison, Neil Young and the Beatles, inspired the business and the people around him. His deep love for records and the stories they told were matched by his devotion to those he loved.

Brandon had a love for Baseball and found his calling as a pitcher and lead his team to the Pennsylvania little league state championship. Which helped grow his passion for baseball. One of Brandon’s greatest joys in life was golf. He was known for his low handicap and his exceptional hand-eye coordination. He was always eager to find time to play, no matter where he was. Brandon’s appreciation for the outdoors extended to his love for the mountains, where he spent countless hours exploring the vast wilderness that surrounded him.

Brandon had a deep love for his family. He was especially fond of his nieces and nephews and was proud to be known as the “favorite” and “fun” uncle. His sense of humor and the joy he brought to those around him will never be forgotten. He is survived by parents Martin and RaeLynn and siblings Justin (Ashley) Marostica, Ashlee (Paul) McCoy, and Tyson (Jayne) Marostica, and his 11 nieces and nephews: Zach, Kate, Ryan, Preston, Lexi, Porter, Mason, Colby, Crew, Rory, and Holland. Brandon is also survived by his Grandmother Joye Marostica, Grandfather Howard Van Valkenburg and friends who loved him dearly.

Throughout his life, Brandon battled health complications related to his childhood cancer treatments. Despite these challenges, he faced each difficulty with courage and rarely complained about the pain he endured. His strength and resilience were a testament to his character.

Brandon’s legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, and he will always be remembered for his love, kindness, and sense of humor. As a way to honor Brandon’s memory, the family invites you to share your memories and stories by posting on his Facebook page. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Brandon’s memory to the oncology department at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, a place that supported him during his battle with cancer.

Brandon’s life was one of service, love, and strength. May we all carry forward the lessons he taught us through his actions and his love for those he held dear. Funeral services and a celebration of Brandon’s life will be held on March 4, 2025 at 2150 North Pointe Meadow Drive Lehi, Utah 84043 Viewing at 9 am, Services to follow at 10 am.

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

https://sites.google.com/site/vanvalkenburgfamilyhistory/families/marostica/brandon-john-marostica.

Obituary - Lawrence Angelo Marostica

Lawrence A. Marostica, 80, of Colorado City, died March 12, 2008, in Pueblo. Services were held March 15 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Rye. Interment was at Rye’s Brookside Cemetery, with military honors provided by the Fort Carson Honor Guard.

Mr. Marostica was born Feb. 21, 1928, in Logan County. He grew up on a farm near Iliff.

He was a retired U.S. Army colonel, having served in both World War II and the Korean War. He worked in Colorado county and state welfare departments before serving as Chief of Social Services for the state of Connecticut, a position from which he retired in 1985.

Mr. Marostica was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

He loved to garden and care for his yard during retirement. He had a beautiful singing voice.

Mr. Marostica is survived by his wife, Joye of Colorado City; children, Tony and wife Jill Marostica, Marty and wife RaeLynn Marostica, Matt and wife Pamela Marostica, Lisa Mosman, Dan and wife Stephanie Marostica; brother, Harry and wife Paula Marostica of Iliff; sister, Fil Anich of Haxtun, Rose Lundin of Sterling, Virginia Frei of Longmont, Nana and husband Larry Brandly of Estes Park, Marie Skov of Holyoke and Roberta and husband Henry Rosas of Sterling; 21 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; numerous in-laws, cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Giovanni and Domenica Marostica; brothers, John and Victor Marostica; and sister, Erminia Gonzales.

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

https://sites.google.com/site/vanvalkenburgfamilyhistory/families/marostica/lawrence-a-marostica.

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.