David Reed Gunderson ~~~ Mt. Pleasant Historian

 David Reed Gunderson

December 6, 1937 ~ November 12, 2020

David Reed Gunderson passed away on November 12, 2020 in South Ogden, Utah after an extended illness. He was born December 6, 1937, in Mt Pleasant, Utah, to Reed and Leoan Gunderson. He lived in Mt. Pleasant, Salt Lake City, Provo, Charleston, Kamas, the Uinta Mountains by the Duchesne Tunnel, South Ogden, Utah and New Jersey. As a family, he especially loved living in the Uinta Mountains and following the construction of the Duchesne tunnel.

David, as a 6 year old suffered from rheumatic fever which left him weak and unable to walk for a year.  Unable to attend school, he fell far behind his peers and was subjected to rather harsh treatment by a teacher.  Nevertheless, over years, young David worked extra hard just learning to read and write. Soon, David excelled in school and developed a deep love of learning.

His father was in charge of directing the course of the six mile Duchesne Tunnel. Many hours of planning and surveying went into the project. His dad included David by explaining the situation and taking him on the many surveying efforts. When convenient his dad took him into the tunnel as he figured and checked the line and grade of the tunnel. The tunnel was started on west side of the mountains near by the Provo River and it would meet with the end of a shorter tunnel that had been driven from the “other side” of the mountains (East) which was the head waters of the Duchesne River, where they were building a dam, spill way, and reservoir to feed water into the tunnel. They “holed through” December 10.1951 as 7:14 p.m. and David accompanied his father, in fact he was the first person through the blasted debris and was photographed by the team working the east side tunnel. The line and grade of the two tunnels diverged from the design line by less than a tenth-of-an-inch which was unheard of accuracy using only the optical instruments of that time. David thrived in this environment.

We then moved to South Ogden Utah. David was part of a great Scout Explorer group from the 38th ward of his church. He got his Eagle Scout Award along with 12 other boys. A professional Caterer in the ward hired him to assist their family business. He became a valuable helper and cook as he assisted them.  He was asked to be the stage manager at Weber High School as he was familiar with circuits and electricity He then graduated with math and science honor awards in 1956. He also graduated from Seminary. In the summers he was hired as a surveyor by the Forest Service due to his earlier experiences and knowledge.

He attended Weber College and graduated in June of 1958. He also graduated from his church’s Institute of Religion. He was asked to sing in many productions “All Faces West,” “The Messiah,” and the “Oratorio.”

In June of 1958 he was called to serve a three-year mission to Japan for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. After his mission David gained approval to stay in Japan for a time to study and be taught the Formal Japanese Language by Buddhist Priests.

After 3 plus years he returned to Utah and was required to take an entrance exam for mathematics at the University of Utah and he received the highest score. While attending the University of Utah he also worked for the Upper Air Research Department. In 1963 he earned a BS in Electrical Engineering, Magna Cum Laude and was the Valedictorian and Baccalaureate speaker.

He was granted a NASA fellowship enabling him to pursue his PhD in Electrical Engineering. His thesis was on Two Millimeter Backward-Wave Oscillators which was funded by the U.S. Air Force.  He graduated in 1969 with a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Summa Cum Laude and a minor in Physics.  He also graduated from the Institute of Religion at the University of Utah in 1963 and received a special certificate from the Institute in 1965.

In 1969, he was hired by Bell Laboratories which was one of the premier scientific companies in the world, which later included Tyco.  Bell Labs was in Holmdel, New Jersey, He became especially close to a few other young engineers when they shared a ‘bachelor pad’ in the early days.  Dave enjoyed many hours with his boating partners sailing on the Navesink River and in the New York harbor. From the harbor he witnessed the Bicentennial Celebration.  He was a trusted mentor, confidant, and life coach for dozens of children, adults, and families.

At Bell Labs he quickly established himself as a technical leader in a culturally diverse department of engineers, together designing the world’s first ‘long haul’ digital communication network based on millimeter wave technology. The world became connected through high quality undersea fiber optic cables that formed the backbone for world-wide digital network and long-distance communications.

He married Kathryn Ann Cowley on December 30, 1971 in the Salt Lake Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

In winter he loved to go skiing with his friends on trips to Vermont and New Hampshire and joined them

on visits to museums and cultural events in New York City.  He also loved classical music and even built a harpsichord.  Always generous of his time, he was leader of an Explorer Scout Post at Bell labs for 25 years for which he received an Explorer Scouting District Award for 25 years of service as an advisor and in addition he helped 12 Scouts achieve the Eagle Rank.  He was asked by Bell Labs to teach a conversational Japanese class in their Out of Hours Education Group which he did for 3 years and had as high as 75 class members.  He read and collected hundreds of books and had many historical volumes.

He captivated generations of children with wonderful stories about his dog from childhood, ‘Ol Rip”.  He loved joining his friends and their relatives - parents, children, aunts, uncles and cousins at their family gatherings and celebrations. Dave was always the hit of the party and a trusted mentor, confidant, and life coach for dozens of children, adults, and families. He was a very good Base Singer, played the violin and was known as a kind and thoughtful teacher. He served in the local Church Ward as a member of the Bishopric, and held numerous other leader ship callings and as a teacher. He was also very well versed in the Scriptures.

He joined groups performing leading edge work in satellite technology. His new responsibilities were to work on new services that could be placed on their satellite network. He traveled all over the country to make proposals, investigate possibilities, and to assist in the installation of new equipment. Some of the new things that he proposed were Transponders Switched Time Domain Multiple Access (TSTDMA) transmission, centralized monitoring and control of a TV distribution network, and start “out back” phone distribution network, and various aspects of the Picture Phone network. He also presented papers on these projects in Toronto Canada and Seattle. It was during this period that he received the Distinguished Member of the Technical Staff Award.

In 1982, He was transferred to the undersea cable department. They had just decided to migrate from analog cable systems to digital optical systems in the undersea plan and plans were being laid for a new system (TAT–8) to provide 250,000 digital voice circuits to both England and French on a branch cable system. A similar system (TP–3) was being planned for transmission to both Guam and Japan in the Pacific. A test system was to be deployed in the Atlantic, in the Canaries, to demonstrate the viability of the cable handling techniques and the equipment. He was nominated to be the project coordinator of the Canary Island project. This experimental system was to be purchased by the Spanish Telephone Company after the experiments were through to provide telecommunications capacity between the islands off Gran Canaria and Tenerife. He also coordinated the development of a movie on the project.

He presented a paper on this work at a conference in Paris and one in New York City. This led to many trips to both Japan and Europe. During the trip to Europe, he visited Spain, France and England, gave a paper in a conference in Amsterdam, and went on to Norway to visit Risor, this involved his getting off the train at a deserted train station in the middle of night and sleeping overnight outside on a station bench. It rained several times and he had to seek shelter in a telephone booth. Later he was assigned to plan and develop portable test equipment to be used in the installation and repair of these systems. This led him to being assigned on this ship for several months during the cable burial off Atlantic City, New Jersey. Later he served on a French ship used to repair the Canary Island system. When the final splices and final tests were made for TAT-8, he was on the ship and as soon as the cable was aboard and connected to his equipment, he made a call on the system, which was the first transatlantic phone call made on that system.

He was then involved in system engineering and was asked to work on new system proposals and to give seminars on optical technology to prospective customers, and to be the technical engineer for several of the systems for which Bell had received contracts, and to work with the engineers at home to develop new equipment and procedures. This last responsibilities lead to several patents. Because of these broad responsibilities, he was asked to travel extensively. He had the opportunity of flying around the world both to the east and to the west. He visited Japan repeatedly and had the opportunity to meet many of his old friends and visit places again. Kathryn was often able to travel with him and share memories.

While he was in Australia in 1994, he became ill with pneumonia and cellulitis and nearly died. The company sent Kathryn down while he recuperated. His sister Gayle flew down as well. They did not expect him to live. The Sidney Hospital personnel came and notified the family that they had to shut the switch board down as so many people were inquiring about his well being.

Travels included Japan, China, Taiwan, Thailand, Korea, Hong Kong, Macao, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Australia and a brief visit to New Zealand. In the Indian Ocean they visited India and Reunion Island. Then South Africa, Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Israel, Turkey, Greece, Italy, Spain, and the Canary Islands, Portugal, Madera and southern France, England, Scandinavia, Germany, Netherlands and various cities in France including Paris many times. Then he went to South America and Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina. North America included Canada, Mexico, and numerous cities in the USA.

They were able to take his mom to Hawaii. David and his mother traveled to Egypt and Israel and on other trips. David and his parents and went to China, Spain, and Scandinavia, which was special to them as they were able to visit Denmark and Norway.  David’s father especially appreciated that, as he needed some help to travel due to sickness.

In 2002 David retired from the Undersea Cables Laboratory and Bell Labs and wrapped up 32+ years career that included established himself as a technical leader in a culturally diverse department of engineers, together designing the world’s first ‘long haul’ digital communication network based on millimeter wave technology. The world became connected through high quality undersea fiber optic cables that formed the backbone for world-wide digital network and long-distance communications. His efforts included the installation of undersea fiber optic cables under the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans and the Red and Mediterranean Seas. His language skills helped open Japan as a major hub for Bell Lab Systems. He helped open markets in Papua New Guinea to Japan plus markets in Europe, India and West Africa. He performed leading edge work in satellite network technology. For his significant contributions he was awarded the title “Distinguished Member of Technical Staff”. David traveled extensively while deeply enjoying each country’s cultural heritage, food and wonderful people. With his easy style, technical brilliance, widespread interests and love of life, Dave made hundreds of friends all over the world.

In 2002 David retired from the Undersea Cables Laboratory and wrapped up 32+ years career that included the developing and negotiating with foreign countries for intercontinental undersea fiber optic cables and included the installation of undersea fiber optic cables under the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans and the Red and Mediterranean Seas. David then moved away from the New Jersey area but kept in touch with his friends there.  He settled in Ogden, Utah living with Kathryn. In retirement, David was an adjunct professor in U of U Engineering. He did consulting on undersea cables and translation of technical information. He also served as the High Priest Group Leader and was the first Councilor in the Bishopric in his home ward. He loved genealogy and published the Early Mt. Pleasant, Utah History, and the Gunderson and Madsen books.

David and Kathryn sincerely appreciated the love and help they received from their neighbors and friends in the Jefferson Third Ward.  They were always helping them in every way and as needed.  Sincere appreciation from the family is extended as well.

Survivors are his wife, Kathryn Ann Gunderson; his sister, Gayle Gunderson (Gary) Hunting of Garden Grove, CA; brother-in-law, Charles (Vicki) Cowley of Ogden, Utah; 7 nieces and nephews, and 20 great nieces and nephews.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday, December 5, 2020 at 2 p.m. at the Ogden City Cemetery, 1875 Monroe Blvd. Friends may visit with family on Saturday from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at Lindquist’s Ogden Mortuary, 3408 Washington Blvd. A memorial service will be held at a later date depending on Covid-19 conditions.

Corporal Henry Mervil Zabriskie

 

Mount Pleasant Pyramid 1918-11-8

Tribune November 5, 1918

 

Ralph Braby,

 

Mount Pleasant Pyramid 1918-5-17

 

Jacob Hafen Obituary

 

1918-12-20 Salt Lake Tribute Reports Jacob Hafen, Jr. Death  

Boyd Reid Beck ~~~ PhD ~~ Snow College Professor

 

Boyd Reid Beck died peacefully on August 31, 2022, at his home in Spring City after a well-fought, life-long battle with kidney and heart disease.

He was preceded in death by his parents Osmer Hayes and Sarah Phyllis Sorensen; by his son Robert Dennis; his brothers Richard and DeVon; his sisters, Phyllis and Lois; and his prized pet sheep Billy. He is survived by his wife Sandra Aiken; his children, Sherene (Kerry) VanDyke, Anna (Jeff) Adams, Amy (Chad) Thompson, and Russell (Kacy) Beck; his sisters Neva, and ReNee; and no less than fourteen grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Boyd was born on July 22, 1945, in his parents’ home in Spring City. He had a good childhood—filled with picnics, microscopes, and pets—but after getting sick at a young age, Boyd realized he wouldn’t be able to carry on the family profession of raising sheep. So, he dedicated himself to studying instead. In his own words he “decided to live like [he] was going to die next year, but learn like [he] was going to live forever.”

Under doctor’s orders, he was asked to rest for half of seventh grade. His mother said that he had to always keep one foot in bed, and he did—technically. Whether or not he actually got much rest is up for debate. Boyd learned to develop film under his covers that year, and managed to play with his nieces and nephews despite bed rest. His illness flared up again at fourteen, and he was again asked to stay in bed. This time he found a tutor. His uncle Boyd Blain took it upon himself to educate his nephew. Boyd Beck often credited Boyd Blain, an English teacher, for instilling in him a hunger for learning that simply never waned.

Boyd served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in California, Arizona, and Nevada, which was the first time he left Utah. He adored his mission—especially because he had thought his health would prevent him from being able to serve. Later in life he would go on to hold various church callings including service in the Manti Temple and some stake callings at Snow College. Boyd graduated four times—from North Sanpete High School, Snow College, Brigham Young University, and finally the University of Utah, with a PhD in Chemistry—and it seems that he didn’t know how to graduate from somewhere without being at the top of his class. During the summers, to help pay for school, Boyd was a sheep herder up on the mountain. He filled his sheep camp with mutton, textbooks, and sourdough.

He was equally accomplished at work. As a chemist Boyd worked for 3M, Albion Labs, sBioMed and Harris Research (among other places). He held several U.S. and foreign patents, including such useful products as carpet cleaners that can lift stubborn red Kool-Aid and anti-fog solutions that can be rubbed on glasses or mirrors. But his real vocational pride was the work he did as a teacher.

For over 31 years Dr. Beck taught chemistry to thousands of students at Snow College. He had a goal to learn all his student’s names by the third day of class—which, by all accounts, he achieved. He personally helped hundreds of students go onto successful careers, including many pharmacists, doctors, and scientists. Dr. Beck loved his students; he often had a line out his office door that never seemed to diminish. He would individually tutor any student who asked for it, no matter how long it took. He was an exceptionally gifted teacher and mentor. His family has long forgiven him for setting such an excessive precedent for personal and professional success.

In 1999 Boyd received a kidney from his son Russell. He often credited that generous donation for tacking on twenty extra years to his life. His children attribute his longevity to the tireless, loving support of his wife of 53 years, Sandra. The fact that Boyd lived to 77 years is because he and Sandra were simply too stubborn to let him die. He would always thank the medical professionals who offered him care over the years, many of whom commented on his positive attitude despite his awful health.

Looking back at his life, Boyd was a man filled with contradictions. He was chronically ill from a young age, but optimistic almost to a fault. He nearly failed out of elementary school only to go on to be the valedictorian of every school he graduated from. He was a sheep herder and a chemist. He was consistently kind, even when life wasn’t kind to him. He was the smartest person in every room he entered, but he would never let anyone know that. All the people who got to know Boyd will miss him—whether they met him clad in a white lab coat in a classroom, or on the mountain smelling of campfire smoke, or dressed in a suit behind a lectern.

The family would like to thank our friends, Anita Johansen, the dedicated hospice team, and the many doctors who helped Boyd during these last years of his life. If you would honor Boyd’s memory, we ask that you reflect on how many lives he managed to change for the better—through service, through teaching, through chemistry—despite so many odds stacked against him. Boyd’s life reminds us that we should never despair, that despite our burdens we, too, can persevere.

There will be a funeral service held on Saturday, September 10, 2022, at 11am in the Spring City 2nd Ward Chapel (150 South Main). Viewings will be held Friday, September 9, 2022, at Rasmussen Mortuary (96 N 100 W, Mt. Pleasant) from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. and Saturday from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. prior to services at the church. Interment will be held in the Spring City Cemetery. In lieu of a donation, consider learning something new, taking a drive up the canyon, holding a baby, or petting a dog.

The recordings will be available for 60 days from 9/10/2022

Click Here to watch recorded Funeral Service.

Dick James ~~~ Friend and Electrician For The Relic Home

 

Dick James ~~~ Friend and Electrician For The Relic Home

Dick Lee James, 75 of Mt. Pleasant, Utah passed away on August 17, 2022, at Utah Valley Hospital. Dick was born on June 21, 1947 to Windom Erval and Thelma Hammond James in Fayette, Utah.

Dick enlisted in the US Airforce and served his country honorably during Vietnam from 1966 to 1969.

Mining took Dick and his family to Colorado and Montana before settling in Fairview, Utah where he was an electrician at Skyline Coal mine. After retiring from the coal mine Dick worked as an electrician at Snow College where he retired in 2013.

Dick loved his boys more than life itself and could not have been more proud of them. He looked forward to every phone call and every visit. As much as Dick loved his kids his grandkids were the light of his life and he smiled the biggest when he was around them or talking about them. He supported his family in every way possible. He never missed a birthday and made sure birthday cards were in the mail at least two weeks early.

Dick is survived by his children Bruce (Sophia), Evans, GA; Eric (Kristy), Santaquin; Matthew (Noelle), Cedar City; Kristie Ison, Fairview; Jennifer (Tom) Seeley, Mt. Pleasant; Shylo (Corey) Tibbs, Mt. Pleasant; Zachary (Niesha) Peterson, Mt. Pleasant; Mandy (Chance) Schmidt, Fairview. His grandchildren Brianna, Jaxon, Katelynn (Kyle), Jaycee, Weston, Kyla, Jaielle, Hudson, and Isabella.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his loving wife Starla Parks James.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, August 25, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. in the Mt. Pleasant North Stake Center (461 N 300 W) with a visitation from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Interment in the Mt. Pleasant City Cemetery. 

To Watch Funeral Service Live, Click Here. The Live Zoom Link will activate at 10:45 a.m. MST prior to services on 8/25/2022

John Ross Seely

 

 John Ross Seely, 66, of Nephi, Utah passed away Saturday, August 17, 2013 after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. He was born on November 7, 1946, the oldest of four brothers to John Rayner and Virginia Vance Seely in Provo, Utah.

He grew up in Mt Pleasant, attending school in the Sanpete County schools. His family later moved to Blanding, Utah where he attended San Juan High School and loved sports. John also attended CSU and Utah Tech College. He entered the US Army from 1964-1966 in Germany receiving an Honorable Discharge. He spent most of his career in the Trucking Industry. He married Joanne Somers June 29, 1968; their marriage was later solemnized in the Manti Temple.
He is survived by his wife, Joanne; sons Justin D. (Stacy) and Jeffrey R. (Trinity) Seely. Grandchildren: Ashton, Addison, Aiden, Kathryn, Wyatt, Tap and Samuel. Brothers include Robert R., Vance L., and Casey D. along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his youngest son Jacob Vance with whom he is having a momentous reunion.

Funeral services will be held on August 24, 2013 at the Nephi Stake Center, 351 North 100 West Nephi, Utah at 12:00 Noon with viewing from 10:00-11:30 AM. Interment will be at the Vine Bluff Cemetery in Nephi following the services.  

I had the opportunity to visit with John (Johny Ross) a couple of years before he died. 

 He had brought his grandmother Ina Morgan over to Mt. Pleasant for a funeral. He told me he missed all of his classmates here in Mt. Pleasant and he asked about many of them.

His father insisted they were going to move to
Blanding against the wishes of the family.

He had spent most of his working career as a truck driver but had to give it up because of
his failing eyesight. Kathy

Bill Morgan

 SALT LAKE TRIBUNE, THE (UT) | 14 OCTOBER 2009

BILL MORGAN

Nephi UT United States

Bill Morgan 1937 ~ 2009 Charles William (Bill) Morgan passed away in the arms of his loving wife Helen October 11, 2009 in Nephi, Utah. He was born to Frank O. and Ina Seely Morgan Jan. 6, 1937 at home in Nephi. He attended school in Nephi and graduated from Wasatch Academy in Mt. Pleasant, in 1955. He attended Snow College, Weber State College and graduated from Utah State University in 1968. He finally caught his Sweetheart Helen Tokoi and they were married in Scofield August 28, 1965. They were blessed with two daughters Julie and Lori. Bill taught school at Bountiful Jr. High and Juab High School. He loved following in his father's footsteps as a sheep rancher and farmer. He was an avid sportsman who loved hunting and fishing. He was a member of SF&W, a Dedicated Hunter, and an advocate for the rights of hunters. He was a member of the Mountain Men of the Wasatch and the Price Elks Lodge. He loved horses and Rodeo from a very young age. In his youth, he raced horses and participated in rodeo. He touched the lives of many, pushing and encouraging them to do more with their lives than they thought they were capable of. He was a gifted artist and craftsman. He is survived by his wife Helen Tokoi Morgan, daughters Julie (Larry) Bosh of Nephi, Lori (Preston) Lee of Morgan; six grandchildren Janae, Jake, Jared, and Josie Bosh and Lucas and River Lee; brothers Dr. Steven (Analee) Morgan of Farmington, Utah, Michael P. Morgan of La Jolla, California and his 96-year-old Mother Ina Seely Morgan of Nephi, Utah. Preceded in death by his father, brother Jon Morgan and a nephew Dr. Chad Morgan. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, October 17, 2009, in the Nephi Stake Center 351 N. 100 W., Nephi, Utah. Friends may call at a viewing Friday evening October 16, 2009 at the Anderson Funeral Home, 94 West 300 North Nephi, from 6-8 p.m. and one hour prior to the services. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Bill Morgan Scholarship fund at Juab High School or your favorite charity.

(c) 2009 The Salt Lake Tribune. All rights reserved. Reproduced with the permission of Media NewsGroup, Inc. by NewsBank, Inc.

Collection Information

United States, GenealogyBank Obituaries, 1980-2014

Learn more about this collection through the FamilySearch Wiki.

Cite This Record

Richard Earl Brown

 

 

Richard Earl Brown

April 29th, 2022

11/25/1943 ~ 4/29/2022

Richard Earl Brown, 78 of Mt. Pleasant, Utah, passed away April 29, 2022 surrounded by his loving family. Born November 25, 1943 to Eugene Lester & Ruth Elva Braithwaite Brown in Manti, Utah. Married Marilyn Shepherd April 29, 1966 in the Manti Temple. They had two sons Todd Brown and Rick (Tera) Brown. Funeral services will be held May 7, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. in the Mt. Pleasant 4th Ward Chapel (49 S State). Viewings Friday May 6, 2022 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Rasmussen Mortuary and Saturday 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the church prior to services. Interment in the Mt. Pleasant City Cemetery. Online condolences and Live Zoom link at rasmussenmortuary.com in his obituary.

Nanalee Larsen Cook

 

 

Nanalee Larsen Cook

01/31/1943 ~ 4/15/2022

  Reunion

Sunrise on Good Friday, April 15, 2022, found Nanalee Larsen Cook peacefully “walking the rainbow” to be embraced by a welcoming party of heaven celebrating her arrival.  She will rise again because of the Easter gift of Jesus Christ to us all. Nanalee was born to Merrill and Leila Larsen in Spanish Fork, Utah, on January 31, 1943.  She received her elementary education degree from BYU, where a cherished roommate, Sheryl Wilson, christened her “Neen,” a nickname she loved. On June 5, 1965, she was sealed for time and eternity to Mark Evan Cook in the Manti Utah Temple.  

Easters gone-by found the family watching The Ten Commandments and The Sound of Music (annual TV specials). Baskets of treats, always including reminders of Christ, were hidden in creative locations including the dryer, oven and fireplace.  While driving together in our 1979 wood panel station wagon, songs from the abbey blared full blast from an 8-track tape.

At times when her children begged forgiveness for being a “problem like Maria” (one is almost “always late for everything”), our mother’s classic reply was always: “There’s nothing to forgive.”  With painful awareness of imperfections which he constantly asked her and the Lord to forgive, Mark’s great tribute to Nanalee was honestly stated: “Any other woman would have murdered me!”

These are a few of Nanalee’s favorite things: 

Our kind Heavenly Father of whom she said:  “Trust Him.”

Our older brother Jesus Christ of whom she said:  “Follow Him.”

Her family to whom she said:  “I love each of you dearly!  Please love and help one another.”

Friends from all walks of life, including Moroni Elementary where she taught for at least 100 years!  Secretary Linda Larsen called her yearly at 4 a.m. saying, “Let me be the first to wish you Happy Birthday!”  Former teachers Joyce Finlinson and Flo Mitchell cheered her last days with their faithful visits.  To them she says: “Thank you.”  To generations of former students she says: “Yo! Work hard, keep trying, and never give up.”  After retiring from teaching, Nanalee also served as a member of the North Sanpete Board of Education. 

One student was her pen-pal of many years, sending beautiful drawings from prison where she occasionally visited him.  Of his situation she humbly said: ”There, but for the grace of God go I.”  To us she says:  “Love and watch over those whose sins are different than your own.”

Her horses King and Patty, miniature yorkie Abby, and cat named Little Foot were pleasant company for her.  She loved Native American history and decor.  Grandchildren’s concerts, sporting events and programs were also among her very favorite things. 

Nanalee belonged to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The “good news” of  the gospel was her guide in life, and she served in many callings. With Mark, she served in the Manti Temple as an ordinance worker beginning in 2003 until moving to Fargo, North Dakota, for a full-time senior mission. Together they served in three states and in the Bismarck Temple from February 2007 to August 2008. Throughout their mission they received visits and important family support.  In addition to sharing her testimony of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ, she enjoyed volunteering at a local school with many refugee children from Africa, and overseeing social events for the single young adults.  Upon returning, she again served as an ordinance worker in the Manti Temple until the Covid-related closing in 2020.  

Children born to them are: Stephanie Leila (deceased) (Scott Stevens – Ephraim); Valerie (Gerald Mills- Bountiful); Heath (deceased) (Holly Allred Cook Larson – Spring City); Kevin (Angie Hansen – Mt. Pleasant); Austin (Natalie White – Moroni); and Joseph (Ricci Allred – Moroni).

Grandchildren: Skyler Stevens, Sydney Stevens Stilson (Weston), Shaylynn Stevens Anderson (Cody), Shantel Stevens Taylor (Matt); Anthony Mills, Michael Mills (Emily), Thomas Mills, Heather Beutler (Landon) Nathan Mills; Ashley Cook Rosenlof (Mark), Quincey Cook Bird (Rhett), Layne Cook (Andie), Morgan Cook & Afton Cook; Wyatt Cook & Kaylee Cook; Tynlee Cook, Hallee Cook, Porter Cook; JJ Cook (deceased), PJ Cook, Kash Cook, Madelaina Cook & Celine Cook. 

Great-grandchildren: Gabriel and Luka Mills; Shandon, James & Addison Anderson; Gracie, MaKrae, Max & Grady Rosenlof; Kayzer & Josie Bird.

Nanalee is also survived by her brothers Bruce and Wayne Larsen, and in-laws Jewel Hatch, Molly Lamb, Roger, Lawrence, Tracy, Orson & Daniel Cook and their families. 

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the St. Joseph Indian School in South Dakota. As a family we express our heartfelt gratitude to all who were a part of her life and wish we could include you each by name.  A special thanks to Dr. Eileen Jackson, Shauna, and all the caring and exceptional healthcare workers at Sanpete Valley Hospital who attended her passing.

A viewing will be held on Friday evening, April 22nd, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Moroni Stake Center, 82 North Center Street. Saturday April 23rd a viewing will take place from 9 to 10:30 a.m. with funeral services beginning at 11 and internment at the Moroni cemetery to follow. Online condolences and Live Zoom Link at rasmussenmortuary.com in her obituary.

Bevin Ace Blackham

 

 

Bevin Ace Blackham

4/18/1949 ~ 4/14/2022

Bevin Ace Blackham, born April 18th, 1949 to Ace Walter and Norma Mikkelsen Blackham, passed away April 14th, 2022.

Bevin married Carol Jean Christensen Blackham on June 20th, 1969. On April 20th, 1993, they were able to take their two children to the Manti Temple where they were sealed for Time and All Eternity.

Bevin was the proud father of Dawn (Kerry) Coates and Austin Blackham. Nothing made him more proud than his grandchildren. When he had good health, he loved helping people and treasured going on safaris with his family.

Bevin worked for Road Runner Travel Trailer, Ron Green Chevrolet, and for Snow College in the Fire and Safety Department. He worked as a Deputy Fire Marshal for the state of Utah. At these jobs he made a lot of friends, but ended up making just as many enemies. After retirement, because of health issues, he worked at Walmart and Terrel’s, where he made even more friends. He loved working with his hands, be it fire suppression systems, automobile mechanics, wood working, leather working, photography, or tinkering with little puzzles. He loved to build and set off rockets, and always got so excited when they would launch new space projects.

No animal came into his life that wasn’t a friend – aside from black widows or rattle snakes. A lot of his life he has had pets and critters, many to the dismay of his wife.

Bevin is survived by his wife Carol Blackham, his sister Faye Ockey, sister-in-law Lois Tucker, his daughter Dawn (Kerry) Coates, and son Austin Blackham. His ten grandchildren, Brandon (Shalie), Rebekka, Alex, and Carson Coates. Kylee (Kelli) Julander, and James, Madison, and Justin Blackham. As well as two great grandsons, Carter and Gunner Coates.

He cheated death eight years ago, and we are all so grateful that we got that extra time with him.

Services will be held Wednesday April 20, 2022 at 11am at the Moroni Chapel, with a visitation from 9:30 to 10:30am.

Click Here to Watch Live. The Live Zoom Link will activate at 10:45 a.m. MST prior to services on 04/20/2022

Shirley Angie Nay Millar

 

 

Shirley Angie Nay Millar

10/17/1929 ~ 4/4/2022

Shirley Angie Ney Millar, 92 of Mt. Pleasant, UT, passed away the morning of April 4, 2022.  She was welcomed home to the arms of her Savior.  She was born October 17, 1929 to August Angus & Victoria Johana Sorensen Ney in Mt. Pleasant, UT. 

Shirley graduated in 1948 from Wasatch Academy, in Mt. Pleasant.  While at W.A. she was a faithful member of the Spanish Club, Girls’ Glee, and Tigerettes.  After graduating she worked at First Security Bank in Mt. Pleasant.  She was later employed by Mt. Pleasant City as a Librarian at the Carnegie Library.

As a righteous member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints she served as a primary teacher in her younger years.  She loved attending Book of Mormon study night with her sister Carol.

She married Alexandar G. Millar, May 28, 1968 in Mt. Pleasant.  Alex had diabetes, and Shirley was always a great caregiver. Together they farmed and had a large garden, and shared many vegetables, especially potatoes and peas, with the community.  She had a love for animals, and loved the baby lambs born in the spring.   She cared immensely for her dogs, they kept her busy. 

In the years after Alex passed, she enjoyed spending time with her two sisters. Together they

attended Daughters of the Utah Pioneers meetings, and enjoyed the history and stories.

Shirley loved her sisters dearly and adored her younger brother.

Aunt Shirley loved children and primary songs. She enjoyed visits from her great-nieces and great-nephews, and always had a treat to share. She was always so kind.  Shirley was known for her friendly smile and sweet personality.

Survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces, and great-great-nephews. James & Jan Reese, and Lynn & Evva Beesley were her main caregivers for many years.  They loved and cared dearly for Aunt Shirley.

Preceded in death by her parents; husband Alex; Sisters Cleo Ney, Victoria Seeman, Carol Beesley; Brother Merril A. Ney.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, April 13, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. with a viewing starting at 10:00 a.m. at Rasmussen Mortuary. Interment in the Mt. Pleasant City Cemetery under the care of Rasmussen Mortuary.

A very sincere and grateful thanks to the Good Life Senior Living, and Gunnison Hospice Care for the care and compassion that was given.

To Watch Funeral Live Click Here. The Zoom link will activate at 10:45 am MST on 4/13/2022

Larry Warren Seely ~~~ A Good Friend

  

Larry Warren Seely

February 21st, 2022

1/16/1939 ~ 2/21/2022

Larry Warren Seely, 83 of Mt. Pleasant, Utah, passed away February 21, 2022. Born January 16, 1939 to Hans Rex & Mary Mae Krebs Seely in Mt. Pleasant, Utah.
Larry served in the US Army. He loved fishing, hunting and the outdoors. He loved his dog Bunky.
He is survived by his brother Reid Seely; sister Shanna Jones; and many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents; siblings Dean Seely, Wanda Olsen, Donna Jackson, Dixie Wix, Patsy Christiansen.
Following Larry’s wish he will be cremated and interred in the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona in Phoenix, AZ. Online condolences at rasmussenmortuary.com

Steve Poulson Has Passed On

 

Steven R Poulson

9/10/1944 ~ 2/15/2022

Steven Ralph Poulson, age 77, of Moroni passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on February 15, 2022.  Steve was born September 10, 1944, the first child of Junior Poulson and Afton Livingston Poulson.  Steve grew up in Mt. Pleasant and as a teenager he excelled in track and football at North Sanpete High School.  Steve married the love of his life, Marilyn Christensen, on February 28, 1964, and was later sealed in the Manti Temple on June 6, 1986.  They made their home in Moroni where they raised 3 sons: Carl, Kevin, and Brad.

Steve was a master gardener and enjoyed reading and had a talent for oil painting.  He had a love for the outdoors and adventures with his family, that he instilled into his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.  He loved hunting and fishing and enjoyed many trips to Lake Powell and the desert.  Some of our most cherished memories are of the time spent at Birdseye with family and lifelong friends.

Steve was a mechanic by trade and owned his own business, Big Pine Conoco, where he made many good friends.  He then went on to work at the Moroni Processing plant until his retirement.  Steve loved his country and served in the National Guard for 24 years.  He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and truly exemplified the Christ like attribute of service.  He would not let an opportunity to serve another pass him by.  To know Steve was to love him and he will be greatly missed by his family and friends.  We will especially miss his big heart and his infectious laugh.

Steve is survived by his loving wife, whom he affectionately referred to as “his bride” of 58 years. Sons Carl (Diane) Poulson, American Fork, UT; Kevin (Rita) Poulson, Moroni, UT; Brad (Carol) Poulson, St. George, UT and brother Ted Poulson. 13 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren.  Preceded in death by his parents Junior and Afton, brother Alan, sister Peggy, and granddaughter Jessica.  Funeral Services will be held Monday, February 21, 2022 at 11:00 am in the Moroni Stake Center.  Viewings will be held Sunday, February 20, 2022 from 6:00-7:00 pm and Monday 9:30-10:30 am prior to the services, both at the Moroni Stake Center.  Interment in the Moroni City Cemetery.

Mack Lemore Wilkey

  

Mack Lemore Wilkey

9/18/1929 ~ 2/9/2022

Mack Lemore Wilkey fell “head over heels in love” with MorRae Blain; they were married August 17, 1950 in the Manti Temple. After thirteen years of missing her daily presence, as of his passing February 9, they are together again.

She supported his early mornings of drivers ed, enjoyment of mountain time particularly with her father Max Blain and their sons, and his nineteen year coaching career which included basketball, football, track, boxing, swimming, and tennis. As a sophomore at Juab High School, he was cut from the basketball team. After hours of determined practice, he not only made the team but went on to play at Snow College and at Utah State University. Always a coach, he continued his love of sports through grandchildren and adopted grandchildren in the community. As a coach, he was uncompromising in maintaining team integrity, discipline and unity. He’d want everyone of the 24 grandchildren and the greats, all 44 of them, and a great-great grandson coming in April to hear his recounting of the basketball championship of “69.” That year he was chosen High School Coach of the Year; later he was inducted into the Utah Sports Hall of Fame.

MorRae appreciated his large garden and the harvest; he’d love to brag about his monster squash, “best” carrots in Sanpete County and lemon elberta peaches. At 92, he gardened, conquered “millions” of weeds, and mowed his own lawn.

Mack appreciated MorRae’s homemade bread, dill pickles, and jam. Not only did he miss her cooking, but he learned to make all three, extraordinarily. Grandchildren affectionately call him the “pancake king.” He’d make delicious whole wheat pancakes and explain all the wonders of Kolob at the same time.

Mack and MorRae treasured their adventures with her sisters Sherrol and Carolyn and their husbands, and also with his family. His sisters Gayle, Marie and step sister Sandra will miss their older brother. His brother Neil and their parents Clarence Wilkey and Helen McPherson preceded them in death.

M and M – that’s how Mack would sign in beautiful handwriting – spent fifteen years serving together in the Manti Temple. As a temple sealer, he was honored to perform the ordinance for grandchildren and great grandchildren. M and M supported one another in responsibilities in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served in many capacities including bishop, Mt. Pleasant 4th Ward and Snow College Married Ward, stake high councilor, teacher of seminary and gospel doctrine, and Cub Scout Master. The latter suited well a man who was not afraid to have fun, wear a crazy outfit or dance.

Dancing! He loved to dance with the little grandchildren, and he enjoyed the dancing performances of granddaughters. He also liked to entertain grandchildren with homemade games and his stories. In a visit, he may pull out some of the many charts he had made for his multiple teaching opportunities. His lettering was masterful. His favorite poster was his plan of salvation chart. His artistic talent also included teaching art, throwing pottery, and oil painting.

Music was also dear to him and MorRae. They not only sang duets together-particularly “Abide with Me” at funerals-but also in family gatherings. They supported their children’s and grandchildren’s musical performances. He was also called upon to speak in coaching clinics, conferences and yes, in funerals.

Mack was firm in his testimony of the restored gospel and the divine mission of Joseph Smith. He received a witness of the Book of Mormon while on board ship, the US Randall, as part of 147th Army Artillery bound for Korea and the conflict there. While in Korea, he and army buddies built the first chapel of the Church there.

Upon his passing, many family members and friends commented, “Bless his heart. He fought the good fight. Now on to the victory kiss with his eternal queen and their happy dance. I hope Heavenly Father lets us peek at reunions in the next life.” Truly he did “return with honor.”

His children and spouses, Dave (Loralee), Debra (Steven Howell), Kevin (Ruth), Kim (Christine), and Michelle (Glenn Day) thank his loyal friends, hospice team, ward “family” and all those he coached, taught, and influenced.

Friends may call from 6-8 p.m. February 18 and 11:30 am – 12:30 pm February 19 at the Mt. Pleasant Stake Center, 295 South State. Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 pm February 19, Mt. Pleasant Stake Center. Interment in the Mt. Pleasant City Cemetery. Online memories may be written at rasmussenmortuary.com. In lieu of flowers, Mack suggests contributions to your preferred humanitarian aid organization or to the missionary fund of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Elva Porter Has Passed On

  

Elva Z Porter

February 4th, 2022

10/10/1944 ~ 2/4/2022

Elva Z Porter, 77 returned home to her heavenly father February 4, 2022. She was a wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She struggled for a 12 year battle with dementia disease. Elva was born October, 10th 1944 in Heber Utah. Her parents were Herman Gilbert and Elsie Frances Potter Zufelt. Elva has six brothers and five sisters. Elva met Bert M. Porter at the SnoCap lanes in Ephraim Utah. They married June 8, 1963 and made their home in Mount Pleasant, where they raised two beautiful daughters, Tracy (Porter) Larson and Kim (Porter)Sanderson.
Elva grew up valuing hard work. Elva worked at the Moroni processing plant, sewing plant and was the supervisor at Wasatch Academy until she retired. Elva enjoyed watching her grandchildren open their Christmas gifts each year. Her grandchildren have very vivid memories of this. Elva enjoyed doing crafts and had much talent doing this. She was an excellent seamstress. She enjoyed her time she spent at her computer and enjoyed doing jigsaw puzzles as a pastime.
Elva is survived by her daughter Kim (Dale)Sanderson; her son-in-law Chad Larsen; her four grandchildren; Candice (Layne) Holman, Lindsay (Brady) Wootton, Cory (Jade) Sanderson and Alisha Sanderson and five great grandchildren; Keerah, Braylin, Dreyson, Cooper, and Oaklee. Preceded in death by her husband Bert M. Porter and her daughter Tracy Porter Larsen.
Funeral services will be held Friday, February 11, 2022 at 11:00 at Rasmussen Mortuary with a viewing from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. prior to services at the Mortuary. Interment in the Mt. Pleasant City Cemetery.

Click Here to Watch Recorded Funeral Service.

Click Here to Watch Recorded Graveside Service.

Dorothy Jacobs Buchanan