Sterling M. Tanner

Sterling Michael Tanner, 65, of Las Vegas, passed away May 30, 2013, after a long illness and a valiant struggle. Sterling was born Sept. 23, 1947, to Lois Leetham and G. Stephen Tanner, in Phoenix. At age 12, he decided to become a doctor. He graduated from Camelback Hich School in Phoenix in 1965, received a B.S. in psychology from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah in 1972, and his medical doctorate from the University of Arizona School of Medicine in Tucson, Arizona in 1975. He did a pediatric residency in Honolulu and Phoenix, and completed a fellowship in pediatric endocrinology at the University of California-Irvine in 1979. Sterling was an energetic and compassionate physician and loved teaching about managing diabetes. He cared greatly for each patient and family. He had a busy pediatric practice in Mesa, Ariz. in the 80's and 90's before moving with his family to Las Vegas and serving patients at UMC, UNR, and most recently, St. Rose Dominican Hospital. Sterling especially enjoyed serving as camp doctor at diabetes camps in Arizona and Nevada. He led a full and varied life from his youth to the present. He worked for the Tanner Construction Company, earned the rank of eagle scout, studied in Saltzburg, Austria during his freshman year at BYU, served as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Germany, and taught German at the MTC in Provo. He obtained his pilot's license and loved flying. He received a law degree from Arizona State University in 1990. He was formerly on the board of the American Diabetes Association in Arizona, and was on the board of directors for Easter Seals. He served in the Boy Scouts of America and helped all his sons receive the rank of eagle scout. He was a captain in the U.S. Army and served at Tripler Army Base. He received a kidney and pancreas transplant and advocated for patients in need of transplants. He was a faithful and devoted member of the church, and tirelessly pursued his callings. He enjoyed teaching the adult Gospel Doctrine class and the youth in Sunday School. Many reported his teaching helped them feel confidence in themselves and the Lord and a desire to serve mankind. He enjoyed serving in the High Priests Group in the Durango Ward in Las Vegas, and in LDS temples in Mesa and Las Vegas. His most cherished calling was as a home teacher, where his personal ministry to individuals and families built a foundation for faith and friendship that will never be broken. Sterling had a wide circle of friends who love his wit, wisdom and fun sense of humor. Above all he loved his family. He married the love of his life, Kristy, Aug. 26, 1982, and together they raised five children. He imparted to them his love for the Lord, work ethic, rich family heritage and bright curiosity for all arts and sciences. He had a talent for fixing any broken machine or appliance. Sterling loves music and had a rich baritone voice and especially enjoyed singing Christmas carols with family and friends. One of his favorite simple pleasures of life was being surrounded by family at his parents' cabin in Prescott, Ariz., while sharing family stories and listening to falling rain. Heaven is richer today because Sterling is there with his parents and loved ones who have gone before. He is survived by his wife, Eva Kristine; children, Andrew, Natalie, Michael, Matthew and Jonathan; brothers, Steve (Cheri), Craig (Diana) and David (Charlotte); and sister, Laurey (Geoffrey). He will always be remembered as a beloved husband, father, brother and friend. Viewing will be 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, June 8, with funeral services following, noon to 1:15 p.m. at the LDS Church, 3300 N. Buffalo, Las Vegas, NV 89129. Burial, after a brief graveside service, will be at 9 a.m. Wednesday, June 12, at the City of Mesa Cemetery, 1212 N. Center St., Mesa, AZ 85201

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