Marilyn Ashby

My sister, Marilyn Ashby, 67, Passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 26, 2012 of natural causes. Marilyn was born November 15, 1945 in Spanish Fork, Utah to Gerald and Phylis Ashby. She lived in Spanish Fork throughout her life and attended Spanish Fork High School.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 29, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at the Spanish Fork 5th Ward Chapel, 1006 E 200 South, Spanish Fork, Utah Interment will be in the Spanish Fork City Cemetery. Family and friends may call at the Church on Saturday from 9:30-10:45 a.m. prior to the services.

Read her obituary at http://www.walkerspanishfork.com/obit/marilyn-ashby/

Elaine Leifson Pullman

Elaine Leifson Pullman passed away 6 Feb. 2012. Elaine served the Icelandic Community in Spanish Fork as a member of the board of directors. Read her obituary click here

Leone Jolley

Bertha Leone Turner Jolley passed away September 19, 2011. She was 97 years old. She is the granddaughter of Páll Árnason, known in Utah as Parley Arni Johnson born 22 February 1852 at Vilborgstadur, Vestmannaeyjar and Kristín Eiríksdóttir known in Utah as Christine Eirikson Runolfson. She was born 6 December 1842 at Lagakotey, Medallandsthing, Vestur Skaftafell.

Her obituary is posted in the Daily Herald Saturday, September 24, 2011

Jack Christianson

Jack Christianson passed away. He is the grandson of Eggert Kristjánsson an Icelandic immigrant to Utah.
Read his Obituary in the Daily Herald

Lynette Johnson Renolds

Lynette Johnson Reynolds passed away, Click here to read her obituary.

Chris Hreinson

Chris Hrienson son of Icelandic emigrant Jon Kristjan Jonsson passed away 16 March 2011. Read his obituary in the Daily Herald at http://www.heraldextra.com/lifestyles/announcements/obituaries/article_a547260b-e313-51f9-be9f-e22a8cade3f6.html

Glen Bjarnson

Glen Henry Bjarnson 1925 ~ 2010 Glen Henry Bjarnson - One of the "Greatest Generations" - died at the age of 85 in his home at Salt Lake City Utah. He was born November 25, 1925 in Springville Utah to Ray I. and Flora G. Bjarnson. He learned the value of hard work at a young age; thinning beets, picking cherries, cleaning chicken coups, and driving logging and construction trucks. Later, he worked as a journeyman brick mason, where he learned the trade, formed his own construction company, built his home and two apartment buildings; accomplishments of which he was very proud. He also worked for Dunham Bush Heating and Engineering, then 15 years for the Utah State Tax Commission when he retired.
He graduated from Springville High School and then joined the Army and served in World War II; stationed in Germany, There he was wounded and received the Purple Heart and Bronze Star.
Upon his return from the war, he married his sweetheart, JoAnn Stewart. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Salt Lake Temple. The couple recently celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary. Glen is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served as the ward financial clerk, Assistant Scout master, home teacher and enjoyed his volunteer work at Welfare Square. An avid nature enthusiast, he enjoyed trips to the Grand Daddy lakes and Alaska. He loved to paint scenery and Western art and bronze sculpture. Many families have a piece of his artwork in their homes... He loved to travel. With his wife as they took many wonderful trips together to the UK, Russia, Finland, Scandinavian countries, Central and South America, Australia, New Zealand and Israel. In addition, he was in his height of glory behind the wheel of his motor home where they traveled throughout the U.S.
He was a loving husband and father. His grandchildren and great grandchildren are the light of his life. He is survived by his wife JoAnn Stewart Bjarnson and children: Terry (Kara) of Kentucky, Tina Andersen (Morgan) and Tracie Denney (Arlen) of Las Vegas Nevada, 20 grandchildren, ten great grandchildren and three brothers: Ray, Leon and Lynn and one sister Joyce Simpson. He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Wilda, and Rosalie Daybell.
He will be missed for his sense of humor and loving and giving ways. The neighborhood will miss his Fourth of July WWII jeep rides, his "Fair to Meddling" and his "Lord willin' and the creek don't rise". We know you are "On the Road Again" Glen. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 8, 2011 at the Mt Olympus 7th ward, 4407 S. Fortuna Way (3605 East). A viewing will be held in the same building Friday, January 7, 2011 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and also prior to the services from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Interment will be at 2:00 p.m. at the Evergreen Cemetery located at 1997 S 400 E, Springville Utah. The family would like to express their sincere appreciation for the kind and tender care Glen received from Hospice for Utah. Please share condolences at www.serenicare.com
Glen’s grandparents Thorarinn Bjarnason and Ingveldur Ingimundardottir immigrated from Iceland to Spanish Fork, Utah.

Raymond G. Anderson

Raymond George Anderson died December 30, 2010 in Salt Lake. Born February 9, 1926 in Spanish Fork, Utah to Bruce and Catherine Anderson. Next to his love for God and Family, was his love of Country. He served in the Navy from 1944 - 1946. He was married to Sarah "Sally" Summerhays Anderson August 3, 1951 in the Salt Lake Temple. Besides being a member missionary his whole life, he served a full time mission in Denmark, Iceland and as a service missionary in Rose Park Stake. He completed a Bachelors degree from BYU, Masters from University of Utah, working many years as a teacher, a principal and a creative provider for his family. He is survived by his wife and 12 children: Lynette Engle, Craig, Clair, Brian, Colleen Stokes, Clyde, Janae DuRee, Catherine Hegstrom, Caroline Casselman, Bruce, David, Sara Bulla; their spouses and posterity, also sisters Kathryn Ivie, Mary Shepherd, Margaret Harker. Funeral Services in Salt Lake City: Viewing Friday January 7 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Larkin Sunset Lawn, 2350 East 1300 South; and Saturday January 8, 9:30 - 10:45 at LDS Chapel, 1750 South 1500 East, followed by the funeral at 11:00. Burial Salt Lake City Cemetery.

Ray is a full blooded Icelander. His parents were both born in Spanish Fork Utah. His grandparents immigrated to Utah from Iceland. They are Bóas Árnbjörnsson and Björnlaug Eyjólfsdóttir and Eggert Kristjánsson and Sesselja Jónsdóttir.

Jack Leifson

Jack Waldo Leifson (75), passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 29, 2010, at Lake View Elderly Care in Pleasant Grove, Utah. Jack was born in Spanish Fork, Utah, on December 13, 1934, to J. Victor and Mary Bradford Leifson.
Jack married Marilyn Thacker in the Manti Temple on September 14, 1957, (53 years). They resided in Spanish Fork, UT, for 40 years and spent the last 10 years in Provo, UT. Jack is survived by his wife Marilyn and eight children: Bret (Lauren), South Jordan, UT; Ronald (Cheryl), San Jose, CA; Kirk (Darlene), Plano, TX; Robert (Lynne), Woodruff, UT; Paulette (Doug) Brown, Douglasville, GA; Jolene (Chad), Harris, Idaho Falls, ID; Lori (Andy) Marshall, Springville, UT; Julie (Jared) Harrison, Avon, IN; and 24 grandchildren.
Jack is also survived by brothers and sisters Freda McKell, Luene Ludlow, Thor (Loyce), Allen (Mary Lou), Afton Rosenbaum, June, Elaine (Dee) Pullman, and Mark (Freda Kay).
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, an infant brother, Glen, and an older brother Ted.
Jack graduated from Spanish Fork High School in 1953. He served in the U.S. Army from 1954-1956 in Germany. He received his B.S. degree in History and Sociology from B.Y.U. and his M.A. degree in education from Utah State University. He was a well-respected icon at Spanish Fork High School for 35 years, teaching Marketing, Economics and History. He was recognized as the Utah Teacher of the Year in 1970. Jack served his community for 16 years as a Spanish Fork city councilman. He had a strong testimony of the gospel and was a lifelong active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in various capacities including Bishop of the Spanish Fork 3rd Ward, counselor, and faithful home teacher.
A student in every sense of the word, Jack was an avid reader all of his life. He enjoyed writing, including 7 years under the pen name of "Don Quixote," for the Spanish Fork Press. He spent his life in the service of his family, church, community, and God.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to the Perpetual Education Fund. A special thanks to the care givers at Lakeview Elderly Care: Sharon, Justin and Brittany.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, October 4th, at 11:00 a.m. with a viewing from 9:00-10:30 a.m. at the Lakeside 10th Ward, located at 2225 West 620 North in Provo. Family and friends may also pay their respects on Sunday, October 3rd , from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the church. Interment will be in the Spanish Fork City Cemetery.

Phil Boyack Christianson

Phil Boyack Christianson
1939 ~ 2010
Born April 14, 1939 in Spanish Fork, UT to Reuben Leo and Maggie Pricilla Boyack Christianson. Phil graduated from Spanish Fork High School. He joined the National Guard and was in Germany for his two years of service. When returning home he went to work for Iron Workers Local 27 which took him out of state to work for many years. He also worked at Geneva Steal, Emery, Delta and Flaming Gorge Dam being last employed at Kenacott Copper.
Phil married Geraldine Tyrrell. They had two daughters Cindy Kaye and Connie. Geraldine died in 1969. He later married Janet Dorothy Lang in 1971, they had two daughters Margaret Pricilla and Melissa Sue.
Phil enjoyed camping and fishing at Strawberry and going up to the Summit. Visiting with friends, family, playing solitaire and joking around. Phil passed away peacefully at his home on the morning of June 30, 2010 with his family close by.
Survived by his wife Jan, daughters, Cindy Kay Christianson, Connie (Kent) Johnson, Margaret (Justin) Millstead, Melissa (Nick) Waterhouse, five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Brothers Jack, (Murl), Frank (Pat), Sterling (Peggy), David (Julie), sisters Lois (Shuro) Budo, Carol Nelson, Setta (Hal) Anderson, sister in law Helen Christianson - Sorenson and many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents, sister Louise, brother James, brother in law Louis Nelson and granddaughter Anna Kay Archuleta.
He will be cremated at his request. A small memorial for close friends and family will be 7 to 9 pm, Tuesday, July 6, 2010, at 43 South 475 West, Spanish Fork. Park at the high school south lot.
Services in the care of Premier Funeral Services.
Phil is the grandson of Kristjan Eggert Kristjansson, born 1 September 1869 at Modruvallaklaustur, Eyjafjardar, Iceland. Kristjan Eggert immigrated to Utah in 1885.

Sherman Scott Bowen

Sherman Scott Bowen, born November 8, 1942, in Spanish Fork, Utah to Isaac Sherman Bowen and Annie Ethel Threet, passed away February 19, 2010 in Orem, Utah after suffering many years from Parkinson's.

Scott served an LDS mission in the Great Lakes Area. He received a bachelor's degree at BYU and taught school at Lincoln and Lakeridge Jr. High schools.

He enjoyed genealogy, photography, geology, reading, and loved learning of all kinds. He is survived by his wife, Carma Jean Young Bowen, and 8 children: Nathan (Terasa), Suzanne Jones (Paul), Shannon Fawson (Eric), Brendan (Diann), Heather Hutchison (James), Jeanne, Jonathan (Ann), Michael (Devyn), 22 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren. Siblings include: Brent, Lila Black [deceased], Lon, and Carolyn Stephenson.

We would like to offer a special thanks to the staff of Aspen Ridge Rehabilitation Center for their loving and tender care of Scott.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at the Pioneer 1st Ward, 400 N. 700 W. in Provo, Utah. Friends may call at the Berg Mortuary of Provo, 185 East Center, on Monday evening, February 22, from 6-8 p.m. or at the Ward Chapel on Tuesday from 10-10:45 a.m. Interment will follow at the Spanish Fork Cemetery, 420 S. 400 E. Condolences may be sent to info@bergmortuary.com.

Scott is the grandson of Karolina Isleiksdottir born 17 September 1888 at Vestmannaeyjar, Iceland. Karolina immigrated to Utah in 1890.

Roy "Jack" Olson

Roy "Jack" Olson, age 80, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on February 8, 2010. He was born December 17, 1929 in Santaquin to Roy Victor and Vera Wilson Olson. He was sealed to his best friend, Nola Rae Butler, in the Manti LDS Temple on July 21, 1948.

Jack continued in his father's footsteps expanding the greenhouse business. His children and grandchildren will always remember him for his work ethic and his continued love and support that he so freely gave. He found enjoyment in taking his grandchildren fishing, playing games and going to Jazz games. He spent many hours carving cherished treasures for his children and grandchildren.

He was an active member of the LDS church where he served in various callings including Scoutmaster, in the High Priest Group leadership and was currently serving as a Temple Patron.

He is survived by his loving wife, Nola Rae; their children, Kent (Robin) Olson, Jackie (Richard) Fail, Bradley (Christine) Olson, Donnie (Linda) Olson, Salley Stewart, Bart (Yvonne) Olson, Robert (Karen) Norton; 50 grandchildren and 74 great grandchildren; his sister, Kathryn O. Patten; and his brother, Thomas Olson. He was preceded in death by his son-in-law, Darrell Stewart, and a granddaughter, Kallie Fail.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 13th at 12:00 noon at the Old Santaquin Stake Center, 90 South 200 East. A viewing will be held at the church on Friday from 6 to 8 pm and Saturday from 10:30 to 11:45 am. Interment, Santaquin Cemetery.

Jack is the grandson of Ólafur Helgason (Ole Olson, as he was known in Utah) born at Bjornskot, Holt undir Eyjafjallum, Rangarvalla and Þorbjörg Hólmfríður Magnúsdóttir born in Vestmannaeyjar, Iceland.

Helen Wilson

Helen Emily Johnson Wilson passed away peacefully on the morning of December 27, 2009 in Salem, Utah. She joined her husband of almost 50 years.

Helen was born August 6, 1917 in Spanish Fork, Utah to Emily and Autna P. Johnson (Arni Palsson, born in Vestmannaeyjar, Iceland). She attended and graduated from Spanish Fork High School. She married Fred L. Wilson in Los Angeles, CA in 1937. They were later sealed in the Provo Temple. She was a school lunch worker for many years and was The head baker for several schools. She also worked for J.C. Penney and the Del Monte Cannery in Spanish Fork. After she retired and after her husband died, she enjoyed several years as a Grandmother for The Grandparent program. She was a talented artist-family and friends have many of her beautiful paintings.

She was also one of the few remaining "full-blooded" Icelanders in Spanish Fork. Her mother, Emily Johnson, was born in Minnesota to Icelandic emigrants Einar Herman Jonsson and Gudrun Halgrimsdottir.

Helen is survived by three children, Lois Ann Cameron (Dave), Spanish Fork; William LaMar Wilson (Marilynn), Payson; and Helen Marie Jackson, Shoshone, Idaho; 11 grandchildren; 30 great grandchildren, 17 great great grandchildren (incl. one unborn), and 1 unborn great great, great grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her husband; two brothers, (Jack and Heber Johnson); two sisters, (Christine Yergensen and Cecil Curtis Gull), and a newborn brother.

The family sincerely thanks the staff at the Salem Beehive home for their loving and compassionate care and A-Plus Hospice for their excellent care and compassionate service.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at 12:00 Noon at Walker Mortuary, 187 South Main Street, Spanish Fork, Utah. Family and friends may call at the mortuary from 10:45-11:45 a.m. prior to services. Interment will be in the Spanish Fork City Cemetery.

Sherman Valgard Bearnson 1922 ~ 2009

Another 100% Icelander has gone on to that great reunion in heaven.

Spanish Fork . . .Sherman Valgard Bearnson, age 87, died Wednesday, October 28, 2009 at his home of causes incident to dementia. He was born April 25, 1922 in Spanish Fork, Utah to Icelandic immigrant parents, Gisle Bearnson (Gisli Bjarnason) and Christina Vilmina Valgardson. He was educated in Spanish Fork schools and graduated from Spanish Fork High School in 1940.
He worked alongside his father as a farmer and cattleman. Although farmers were exempt from the draft in World War II, Sherman enlisted in the Navy to serve his country. He served in the South Pacific on an aircraft carrier until the end of the war.
When he returned from the war, he met and married, Beverly Boyer, in the Salt Lake LDS Temple on September 1, 1949. Beverly worked hard alongside Sherm on the family farm, along with their son, Steven. Sherman and Beverly modeled honesty, integrity, and hard work for their children. Sherm worked as a farmer and cattleman from the time he was a small boy until 2000, when he retired at the age of 78. He was the President of the South Irrigation Company, where he served on the Board for 32 years. He served as Vice-President of the East Bench Irrigation Company. He served 30 years on the Soil Conservation Commission Board; he and Beverly traveled to farms throughout the United States in the service of Soil Conservation. He was named Utah County Cattleman of the year and was honored by the Icelandic Association of Utah as Icelander of the year.
Sherman was a High Priest in the LDS Church where he served as Sunday School President and home teacher. For many years he volunteered on the 5th Ward Church Farm, donating his time, farm equipment, and fuel. He attended Utah Technical College on the GI Bill, where he learned flying, welding, and auto mechanics. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and working in his shop welding and repairing equipment.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Beverly Boyer Bearnson, and five children, Susan (Richard) Huff; Steven (Michelle) Bearnson, both of Spanish Fork; Barbara Bearnson (Todd Utzinger); Patricia Bearnson; and Gill (Cathy Revere) Bearnson, all of Salt Lake City. He is also survived by 16 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, as well as two sisters, Geraldine Smith and Norma (Weston) Jones, of Spanish Fork. He was preceded in death by a grandson, Chet Bearnson; and siblings, Sarah Ellen Hanks, Faye Bearnson, Wilma Harmer, Mildred Hall, Elva Levanger, Bertha Johnson, Bernice Bearnson, and two cousins who were reared with the Bearnsons as siblings, Hannah and Paul Valgardson.
Funeral services will be Saturday, October 31, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. at the Spanish Fork Stake Center, 1006 East 200 South. Friends may call Saturday at the church from 11:00 a.m. until 12:45 p.m. prior to services. Interment will be in the Spanish Fork City Cemetery under the direction of Walker Mortuary, where military rites will be accorded by the American Legion Post 68.

Karen Johnson Anderson

Karen Johnson Anderson
Date Of Birth: June 8, 1948
Date Of Death: July 27, 2009
Service Date: Saturday, August 1, 2009 at 11:00 a.m.
Karen J. Anderson triumphed in life, and then passed on to be reunited with her husband and loved ones on July 27, 2009.
Karen was born to Edward Anthon (Ted) Johnson and Mary LaRue Hone Johnson on June 8, 1948. She was a beautiful child with curly blonde hair and bright blue eyes. Many of her early memories center on being with her father, herding sheep up Diamond Fork Canyon. Karen graduated from Spanish Fork High School and BYU, receiving her degree in Elementary Education. Later in life she returned to BYU to finish a Masters Degree in Reading. She found her eternal companion, Ed, while attending BYU. They were sealed eternally June 12, 1970 in Manti, Utah. Their marriage has been one of love, sacrifice, and optimism.
Karen loved reading and children. She carefully balanced her role as mother, with her occupation as teacher. For many years she taught first grade, helping many inquisitive 5 & 6 year old children learn how to read. She remembered each one of them. Later in life she taught reading to other teachers as a literacy specialist in Nebo School District. The friendships she made during this job will be eternal.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was a fundamental part of Karen's life and she served faithfully wherever called. She served as Stake Relief Society President, Gospel Doctrine Teacher, and Ward Relief Society President numerous times. She knew how to serve quietly and lovingly. Karen loved her ancestors and spent the last couple of years compiling books of histories. Karen and Ed raised 6 children who love and honor their mother and who have found great joy being able to serve her. It was impossible not to love Karen.
Karen is survived by her six children, Kristy (Mike) Robertson, David, Boas, McKay (Allison), Nord (Wren), and Whitney; grandchildren, Alenia, Seth, Dane, Brielle, Tate and Mitch Robertson, Henry Anderson, and two on the way. She is also survived by her brothers, Kent (Linda) Fulmer, Lee (Denise) Johnson; and sisters, Lynne (Owen) Harrison, and Julie (Dave) Christianson; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
The past three years Karen has had cancer, she asked that her "cancer blessings" be shared. She has learned charity from others, and made many new friends. She is grateful for the small things we often take for granted, and has learned to rely on the Lord. She had time to prepare for death and has gathered her family often to let them know how much each member is loved. Karen didn't want bitterness, only joy, hope, and love.
Karen asked specific thanks go to her angel sister, Lynne, who has walked each step of the way with her; also, Dr. Wendy Breyer, Mandi, Paula, and Janis; and Vista Hospice, Dr. Gary Garner, Nancy, Rose Mary, Marci, Burt, and Sue for their love, kindness, and concern.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 1, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at 300 E. Center Street, in Spanish Fork. Friends may call Friday evening from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Walker Family Mortuary, 187 South Main Street, Spanish Fork or on Saturday morning at the church from 9:45-10:45 a.m. prior to services.

Bill Holm

Minnesota author Bill Holm dies at 65
St. Paul, Minn. — Essayist and poet Bill Holm was nationally known for his distinctly Minnesotan writing.
He's the author of several works, including "Boxelder Bug Variations," "Coming Home Crazy," and "Playing the Black Piano."
In 2007, Holm wrote "Windows of Brimnes: an American in Iceland." It was named for his cottage near a small fishing village in Iceland, where he spent his summers.
His friends and colleagues compare Holm to Walt Whitman and Henry David Thoreau for writing so devotedly about his home town of Minneota.
They also compare him to Mark Twain, because of his tendency to mix affection and humor with harsh political criticism.
Just this past May Holm won the prestigious McKnight Distinguished Artist Award, which is given to people who could work elsewhere but choose to stay in Minnesota and contribute to the state's cultural life.
"We are losing his authenticity, we are losing his love for the land, for Minnesota itself, and we are really losing one of our greatest authors," said Vicki Benson, arts program director for McKnight.
Milkweed Editions published much of Holm's work, and director Daniel Slager said those works had a sense of appreciation for the people he wrote about.
“The farther away from Minnesota that I got, the more I realized that my material as a writer …had something to do with this funny little town where I was born.” –Bill Holm
"I was particularly drawn to Bill's non-fiction, which combines an interesting political sensibility -- constantly vigilant defense of little people, powerless people, and a constant suspicion of power and its workings," said Slager. "But never excessively earnest, always infused with good humor, and with real love and respect for people from all walks of life."
Holm was born in 1943 on a farm north of Minneota, Minn., and continued to live in Minneota while teaching at Southwest State. Holm taught for 27 years before retiring in late 2007.
While he traveled widely over the years -- to Europe, to China and to Africa -- and spent summers in the Iceland of his ancestors, Holm told MPR in a 2008 interview that he kept coming back to Minneota.
"The farther away from Minnesota that I got, the more I realized that my material as a writer -- not just the material, but the way that I saw the world and the lens through which I observed American, the world and my life was somehow -- had something to do with this funny little town where I was born."
Holm was an occasional guest on A Prairie Home Companion radio show on American Public Media. The program's host, Garrison Keillor, called Holm a great man.
"And unlike most great men, he really looked like one. 6 foot 8 inches, big frame, and a big white beard and a shock of white hair, a booming voice, so he loomed over you like a prophet and a preacher, which is what he was," said Keillor.
"I wish I'd been there to catch him as he fell," Keillor continued. "I hope his Icelandic ancestors are waiting to welcome him to their rocky corner of heaven. I hope his piano goes to someone who will love it as much as he did. I hope that people all across Minnesota will pick up one of his books and see what the man had to say."
Holm died Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2009 at the Avera Heart Hospital in Sioux Falls, S.D., according to Rehkamp-Horvath Funeral Directors.
Funeral services are pending.

Daniel H. Ludlow

Daniel H. Ludlow 1924 ~ 2009 Daniel H. Ludlow, 84, died February 14, 2009 in Provo of causes incident to age. He died peacefully at home surrounded by his wife and all of his children.Born March 17, 1924, to Daniel and Wilma Hansen Ludlow in Benjamin, Utah. Married Luene Leifson on June 10, 1942, in the Salt Lake Temple. Survived by wife; one son, and seven daughters: Victor (V-Ann) Ludlow, Sandra Ludlow, Diane (Doyle) Asay, LuAnn Rothe, Carolyn (Brent) Sweeny, Kathy (Mark) Smith, Shauna (Darrell) Smith, Michelle (Garr) Judd; as well as forty-two grandchildren and sixty-four great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by both parents; a daughter, Ruth (Nate) Pierce; a son-in-law, Ed Rothe; and a sister, Margaret. Survived also by brothers and sisters from his mother's later marriage after his father's death to D. Raymond LeBaron: Anna Rae (Gilbert) Nelson; Dollene (Ben) Nason; Garn Q. (Barbara) LeBaron (half-brother); and Nona (Joe Lynn) Spencer (half-sister). Preceded in death by stepbrother Charles D. (Shirley) LeBaron. He also considered his wife's family as his own. Attended schools in Benjamin, Goshen, and Spanish Fork. Attended college at Utah State, where he was elected student-body president twice (1942-46); Indiana University (Masters); and Columbia University (Doctorate). Taught at Utah State (1947-1952) and Brigham Young University (1955-1972), where he served as Dean of Religious Instruction and Director of Institute of Mormon Studies. Received an honorary doctorate degree from BYU in 1995. Served as Director of Correlation Department of the LDS Church for 15 years. Also taught at BYU-Hawaii campus, served as Director of Teacher Support Services for the Church Education System, served on the Scriptures Publication Committee of the LDS Church and served as Editor-in-chief of the "Encyclopedia of Mormonism" published by Macmillan Publishers. Founded and served as the first Director of the BYU Semester Abroad in Israel, and the Faculty Study Tour of the Lands of the Scriptures. Has directed many tours to Israel (often including nearby countries), Central America, Mexico and conducted numerous Church History tours. Served in many leadership positions, including Branch President; member of: a bishopric, four high councils, and two stake presidencies; Regional Representative of the Twelve; President of Australia Perth Mission; and an ordained temple worker. Author of several books (including a series of scripture references), numerous magazine articles, and chapters in Church manuals. Enjoyed sports, gardening, playing games with the family, golfing, fishing, camping, genealogy, and traveling. Had a great love of learning and teaching. Special thanks to Verna, Dana, Jonathan and Luke from Alpine Hospice for their wonderful care. Visitations will be Tuesday, February 17, 2009, at the Provo Walker Mortuary located at 85 East 300 South, Provo from 5:00-8:00 p.m., as well as Wednesday, February 18, 2009, from 9:00-10:30 a.m. at the LDS church located at 2400 North 1060 East, Provo. Memorial services will follow on Wednesday, February 18, 2009, at 11:00 a.m. in the LDS church at 2400 North 1060 East, Provo. In lieu of flowers please donate to the LDS Perpetual Education Fund. Interment in Benjamin, Utah Cemetery.
Published in the Deseret News from 2/16/2009 - 2/17/2009

Gerald Blaine Ashby

Gerald Blaine Ashby, son of Gerald & Phyllis Higginson Ashby, died December 5, 2008. Born July 25, 1938 in Spanish Fork, Utah. Graduated from S F High School, Seminary, & BYU. Married Carol Proctor in Manti Temple. They have two children, Steven, & Karen; a foster daughter, Irma Begay Tsosie; son Ernie Joe, deceased; five grandchildren, Alison, Stephanie, Shelly, Tyler, Sheri, four foster grandchildren, one foster great grandchild.

He treasured his membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; served a mission to Denmark; enjoyed many callings and served in several Bishoprics, loving the people he worked with and those he served. He & Carol served a Family History Mission. He was a member of Kiwanis and served on the Icelandic Association Board. He retired from Geneva. Survived by family & siblings, David (Bonnie); Marilyn; Ann (Dennis) Gull; Garth (Kay); aunts, Karla (Dean) Holm; Gloria (LaMar) Ashby; LaVern (Ralph) Higginson.

Viewing will be held at Walker Mortuary, 187 South Main, December 12, 2008 from 6-8 p.m and one hour before funeral at church. Funeral will be December 13, 2008 11:00 a.m. at the church, 1661 S 1400 E, Spanish Fork. Burial in Spanish Fork Cemetery.

Thank you to medical providers, family, friends, and ward members.

Helen Olson

Helen Elizabeth Nelson Olson, 81, of Spanish Fork died Friday, November 21, 2008 at her home. She was born on November 2, 1927 in Spring Canyon, Carbon County, Utah, the daughter of Oliver Willard and Ferrel Blackett Nelson.

Mom grew up in Springville and Spanish Fork, spending many summers on "The Ranch" at Wanrhodes up Diamond Fork Canyon. Helen graduated from Spanish Fork High School. Her brother Leon, was killed in the Bataan Death during WWII. In 1943, when she was 16, her father died in a mining accident after which she helped raise her two younger siblings.

She married Gilbert Hjlmar Olson on February 8, 1947 in Ely, Nevada. She was the mother of five children. One, Lois Ann, passed away as a young child.

Helen was a leader in the community. She was president of many organizations including The Rotary Club, The Chamber of Commerce, and the DUP. She was active in the LDS church, holding many positions, especially enjoying her work with the Young Women Certification program.

She was a great cook, loved the garden and flowers, spending time with her family at the cabin, and family reunions.Helen worked at many jobs over the years, including the Del Monte Cannery, Olson's Greenhouse; and the Petal Pantry. Along with her daughter Karen, she opened and operated Artistic Floral for 16 years.

Survivors include one son, Leon (Susan) Olson; and three daughters, June (Gary) Dutton; Kaye (Mark) Bailey; and Karen Olson; 10 grandchildren; and 17 great grandchildren. She is also survived by a brother, Wendall (Arlene) Nelson; and one sister, Marie (John) Waters. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gilbert; and her daughter, Lois Ann; a sister, Louise (Fred) Atwood (Bud) Hales; two brothers, Leon Willard Nelson; and William James (Jean) Nelson.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, November 26, 2008 at 1:00 p.m. at the Old 1st and 12th Ward Chapel, 310 East Center Street, Spanish Fork. Friends may call at Walker Mortuary, 187 S. Main Street, Spanish Fork on Tuesday evening, November 25, 2008 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. or Wednesday morning at the church from 11:45 a.m. until 12:45 p.m. prior to services. Burial will be in the Spanish Fork City Cemetery.

Boyer 'Nick' Austin Carter

Boyer 'Nick' Austin Carter 1916 ~ 2008 LAYTON - Boyer 'Nick' Austin Carter, 92, passed away Friday, November 7, 2008 at the Dee-McKay Hospital, in Ogden, Utah. Nick was born March 25, 1916 in Spanish Fork, Utah to Austin and Kate B. Carter. He married Dorothy Ilene Don on April 24, 1937 in Coalville, Utah. Nick attended the University of Utah; he later worked for the U.S. Government Civil Service as Chief of Base Plans, in Planning and Budget. He served in the Army during World War II. Nick and Dorothy raised their family in Kaysville where Nick was active in the Kaysville civic organizations. Nick was a member and President of the Kaysville Civic Association, member of the Jaycees, and a Little League coach. He served 22 plus years on the Board of Directors of Federal Employees Credit Union (America First), seven of those years as President. Nick enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, and golf. He had summer homes in Palisades and Victor, Idaho; winter homes in Arizona and St. George. He spent the last ten months at Apple Village in Layton. Nick is survived by his wife, Dorothy; son J. Scott Carter (Janis); Layton; daughter-in-law Gay Carter, Kaysville; eight grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, son Don A. Carter, daughter Sharon Lee and a brother Paul B. Carter and sister Kathryn (Kaye) Smith. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, November 12, 2008 at 11 a.m. at the Lindquist's Layton Mortuary, 1867 N. Fairfield Road. Friends and family may call Tuesday from 6 to 8 p.m. and Wednesday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Interment, Kaysville City Cemetery