Dodge, Gwendolyn Ann Lavender
65, died peacefully Wednesday morning, October 31, 2012. Gwen was born in Farmington, New Mexico in 1946. Her family moved to Mesa, Arizona when she was a young girl. She was married to Mike K. Dodge on September 29, 1967. Gwen & Mike shared the same birthday of Nov 16, 1946. They had two daughters, Rebecca & Heather, who were very close to their mother throughout her life. She was instrumental in the building of her husband and brother-in-law¹s successful electrical contracting company and worked there for over twenty years. Gwen was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She loved to sing in the choir especially during the Christmas season. She loved her role as a Young Women¹s leader and was a positive influence to many youth throughout her years of service. Gwen had a love for music. She loved playing the piano and for many years enjoyed teaching it to various children and adults. Christmas was her favorite holiday. Family members reminisce about the beautiful and uplifting Christmas parties she would host year after year in her home. Gwen was loved by all who met her, whether they knew her for years or for only a couple of hours. She had a magnetic personality. She had a wonderful sense of humor, extremely witty, and the life of the party. It was always fun to be around her. Among many traits, she was known for her unconditional love for others. She was full of compassion and demonstrated this every day. Her generosity assisted countless family members, friends, and acquaintances. Many recall Gwen as a person, but the blessing she was in their lives is one that is a constant in everyone¹s memories. Gwen is survived by her husband Mike and her two daughters Rebecca & Heather, her older brothers Ira Lavender & Harvey Lavender and her younger sister Jeannine Lavender. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, Nov 3rd at 1:00pm at the Brimhall LDS Church Building at 48th St & Southern in Mesa, AZ.
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I have such fond memories of piano lessons and young women's with Gwen. I still have a picture of a piano recital at her house when I was little. She was my first music teacher, which led to a life of music. Gwen will be dearly missed, but I'm grateful for the memories and the gospel that provides everlasting peace at this time. My prayers are for the family.
Holly Sokol
November 3, 2012
Dear Dodge Family,
I am unbelievably sorry for the loss of your mother and wife. I have fond memories of visiting your house as a kid especially at Christmas time when your mom had a big huge tree near the piano. She was always warm and welcoming. Know that one day you will all see her and she is now watching over all of you.
With warmest regards and Love
Angie Grice (White)
Angela Grice
November 3, 2012
I only got to know you for a short period of time. I was lucky enough to be your visiting teacher when I first moved to Las Sendas. Your were a loving, wonderful daughter to your sick mother and a loving sister to myself and Lucile. You will be missed. Your visiting teacher,
Kathy Ainsworth
November 2, 2012
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
HEATHER,I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOST CUNNINGHAM
November 2, 2012
Thoughts and prayers to your family.
Michelle Harris
November 2, 2012
Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to the family. Mike, Becky and Heather. Gwen will be greatly missed...She has a place forever in our hearts and many special memories. May God Bless. Love, Neva and Dennis White and family
November 2, 2012
prayers with you all
Jannette & LD
November 2, 2012
THE MEMORIES ARE FLOODING BACK FROM GROWING UP WITH GWEN, SO SAD TO HEAR OF HER PASSING. RIP GWEN
DEANNA GOULD
November 2, 2012
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