Sterling Michael Tanner, 65, of Las Vegas, NV, passed away on May 30, 2013 after a long illness and a valiant struggle. Sterling was born in Phoenix, AZ on September 23, 1947 to Lois Leetham and G. Stephen Tanner. At age 12 he decided to become a doctor. He graduated from Camelback High School in Phoenix in 1965, received a BS in Psychology from BYU in Provo, UT in 1972, and his medical doctorate from the U of AZ School of Medicine in Tucson, AZ in 1975. He did a pediatric residency in Honolulu and Phoenix, and completed a fellowship in Pediatric Endocrinology at the U of CA-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, AZ in the 80s and 90s 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, UT. He obtained his pilot's licence 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 AZ, 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 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 AZ and Las Vegas, NV. 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, on August 26, 1982, and together they raised 5 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, AZ 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), David (Charlotte), and sister Laurey (Geoffrey). He will always be remembered as a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend.

Viewing is on Sat, June 8, 2013 from 10:00 -11:30 AM, followed by funeral from noon to 1:15 PM at the LDS Church at 3300 N Buffalo, Las Vegas, NV 89129. Interment will take place after a brief graveside service on Wednesday, June 12, 2013 at 9:00 AM at the City of Mesa Cemetery at 1212 N Center Street, Mesa, AZ 85201.