Steve Gertsch

Steven Carl Gertsch, born on July 26, 1947, to Theresia Bertram and Benjamin Carl Gertsch, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2023, surrounded by his loved ones. Steve lived a remarkable life filled with love, joy, and service to others.

Steve's family was everything to him, and he spent much of his free time with them in the great outdoors, camping, hiking, fishing, and archery hunting. He passed down his passion to his children and grandchildren, instilling in them a love of nature and a respect for its beauty and majesty.

As a public-school educator for 46 years in the Weber and Ogden School Districts, Steve shared his passion for teaching young people. He spent many years teaching 3rd, 4th, and 6th graders, and he was especially fond of teaching Utah history and science. Steve had a kind and creative way of making learning fun. One of his most memorable teaching tools was his 12-foot Burmese python, Monty, who he kept in his classroom for 30 years. Steve and Monty helped generations of children overcome their fears and inspired a lifelong love of learning.

Steve was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and he humbly and diligently served in many capacities throughout his life, including as a scoutmaster, Elders Quorum president, High Priest Group Leader, Stake High Council, Bishop, counselor in the Stake Presidency, and as an Ogden Temple worker. His cheerful, unwavering, often quiet, behind-the-scenes service to others was a reflection of his deep love for his fellow man and his unwavering faith in God.

Steve is survived by the love of his life and eternal companion, Kaylana, and his six children, Melani (Kirk) Jones, Steven F (Cortnee) Gertsch, Tiffiny (Shawn) Thompson, Jake (Chelsie) Gertsch, Kami (Jim) Blodnick, Amber Gertsch, and 18 grandchildren. He will be greatly missed, but his memory will be cherished by all who had the good fortune to know him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, hard work, and dedication to family, the gospel of Jesus Christ, and community. Though he carried himself with unassuming humility, his influence was immense, and the lives he touched are immeasurable.

Funeral service will be Saturday, May 6, 2023, at 1 pm at Farr West 1st Ward building, 1800 N. 1800 W. Farr West.  A viewing will be Friday, May 5, 2023, 6 to 8 pm at Myers Mortuary. 845 Washington Blvd. Ogden, Utah.

Steve’s service will be recorded and added after services to his obituary on www.myers-mortuary.com, and will remain on the Myers obituary page indefinitely.

Eva Jean Lewis

   

Eva Jean Lewis Meenderink, 76, of Lava Hot Springs, ID and Wickenburg, AZ passed away on April 14, 2023. She passed away peacefully in her home in Wickenburg, AZ with loved ones by her side.

Eva Jean is survived by her husband, Gerriet Meenderink, her sister Lynette Lewis, her daughters: Michelle Wood and Stephanie Lindsey (Brynt), stepson, Greg Meenderink and her grandkids who were the center of her world.

She is preceded in death by her parents, James and Millie Lewis, brother, Russell Lewis and sisters; LeeAnn Lewis Altman and Guyla Lewis Johnson.

Eva Jean was born to James and Millicent Lewis in Roosevelt, Utah on December 10, 1946. She attended Bountiful High School and Weber State College where she studied elementary education.

She was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints where she served in many capacities throughout her life including the Relief Society and the Young Women’s organization. However, her happy place was serving in the Primary where she was known as “Sister Friendly.”

EJ, as she was known, was incredibly kind and loving with a fantastic sense of humor. She had an amazing smile and contagious laugh. EJ loved big! In addition to her biological family, she had an enormous extended “adopted” family and was known by many as Mom, Grandma Jean, Grandma EJ or Aunt EJ. She had way of making everyone feel special and opened her home and her heart to so many.

The impact of Eva Jean’s life is immeasurable and though her physical absence leaves a giant hole in our hearts and in our lives, we know that she is at peace and continues on with us. We are forever grateful for the amazing person she was and the legacy of love she leaves behind for all of us.

Funeral Services will be held Saturday April 29, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Myers Mortuary, 5865 S 1900 W, Roy, UT.

There will be a viewing on Friday April 28, 2023 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, and prior to the service Saturday April 29, 2023 from 9:30 to 10:30 AM.