Warenski Funeral Home, 1776 North 900 East, American Fork, UT (2026)

08/25/2026

William Carlyle Nielsen
January 26, 1941 – August 22, 2026

William (Bill) Nielsen died peacefully on Saturday, August 22, 2026 at home with his wife and daughter by his side.

Bill was born in Provo, Utah to Emil K. Nielsen and Eva Taylor Nielsen on January 26, 1941, the youngest of 5 children. Bill had two older brothers; Albert (Bert) and Devon and two sisters; Nada Lee and Colleen.

Bill married his sweetheart, Mary (Arlene) Jensen on August 2, 1960, in the Logan temple. Together they had 5 children; Jeffery (Jeff), Teresa, Chad, Debera and Clark (stillborn).

Bill had a long and successful 33-year career at Kennecott Copper Mine. Over those years he held numerous positions, retiring as an electrician, at the mine.

Some of Bill’s happiest moments were spent outdoors in the mountains riding his dirt bike, Quad Sport, and doon buggy rides with the family at their property in Indianola.

Bill loved his wife and family more than anything else. In addition to his children, he was blessed with six grandchildren; Krista Echeverria (Carlos), Austin Nielsen (Breanna), Anna Marie Ordaz (Alex), Mimi Monson (Neal), Brandon Nielsen, Jeffrey Mellen and 10 great-grandchildren; Alexes Echeverria, Kaylee Echeverria, Peyton Echeverria, Apollo Nielsen, Scarlett Monson, Boston Echeverria, Evie Nielsen, J.J. Monson, Brody Nielsen and Christian Monson.

Bill was proceeded in death by his parents, brothers Albert Nielsen, Devon Nielsen, sisters Nada Lee Nielsen, Eva Colleen Nielsen McCormick and his son Clark Nielsen. Bill is survived by his wife Arlene, his children Jeff (Misook) Nielsen, Teresa (Michael) Just, Chad (Bert) Nielsen, Debera (Jeff) Mellen, his 6 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren along with a large extended family including his brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews and nieces.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Bill’s life at a graveside service, August 31, 2026, 11:00 am, Spanish Fork Cemetery, 420 South 400 East, Spanish Fork, Utah 84660.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.warenski.com

08/24/2026

Rose Epsie Emily Parks Garner
1941 ~ 2026

Rose Epsie Emily Parks Garner, age 85, passed away on August 19, 2026. She had many roles in her life: beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, niece and friend but her most beloved role was Noni.

Rose was born on July 7, 1941 to Lyle and Nellie Parks and shared her life with siblings, Lyle Parks Jr, Jane Clark and Leon Parks in Whittier, California.

To Rose, people were always an important part of life. Rose loved being around people, and her home was always full of life because of it. Family dinners, game nights, and long conversations catching up on everyone’s lives were some of her favorite ways to spend time; she never wanted to miss a chance to be together. She had a gift for noticing when someone needed a listening ear or a helping hand, and she showed genuine concern for the people in her life, always ready to serve others before herself. Whether she was hosting a crowd or sitting one-on-one with a friend, Rose made everyone feel welcome, valued, and loved. Children in the neighborhood came to visit her every day to get two pieces of candy. She loved seeing and interacting with these children every day.

Beyond her children and grandchildren, Rose’s greatest joy was handwork. If you spent any time with Rose at dinners, concerts, sporting events, in the dentist’s chair or even a stop light, her hands had a needle, thread or yarn in them, and were working on something. Crocheting snowflakes, knitting afghans, or throwing together a dish rag, her hands were always engaged. She found great joy in the rhythm of it, and she loved nothing more than spreading and sharing that love and knowledge along with others. She patiently taught her granddaughters, many friends and neighbors, the stitches and techniques she mastered over her lifetime. Her handwork was more than a hobby; it was an expression of her love and care of others.

Another of Rose’s great joys was her collection of nativity scenes, more than 500 in all, gathered and gifted throughout her married life and from all over the world. Each Christmas season, she opened her home to neighbors and family, welcoming hundreds of visitors every year to walk through her collection and share in the wonder of the season with her. These open houses became a beloved tradition, a chance for Rose to share her love of Christmas and the true meaning behind it with everyone who came through her door. Her home during the holidays was a warm and welcoming place, filled with the happiness and generosity that defined who she was.

Rose was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She had a strong testimony of the gospel and a love for her Savior Jesus Christ. She served in many capacities such as Cub Scout Den Leader, teacher, primary president, family history consultant, nursery leader and was a fantastic ministering sister.

Rose is preceded in death by her husband LaVal F Garner, her father, Lyle A Parks Sr, her mother, Nellie G Parks, her brother Lyle A Parks Jr, and her sister Jane R Clark. Rose is survived by her eight children and spouses: Heidi Garner, Troy and Leslie Garner, David and Marianne Garner, Jana and Steve Webber, Laura and Richard Collette, Jared Garner, Karl Garner and Bryce and Kasumi Garner, as well as 20 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren and her brother Leon.

Funeral Services for Rose will be held on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at 11:00 am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Chapel located at 825 South Loader Ave, Pleasant Grove Utah. Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Wednesday evening September 2, 2026 from 6:00-8:00 pm at the Church building, and also an additional viewing on Thursday morning from 9:30-10:30 am prior to the service.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.warenski.com

08/17/2026

LaVaun Maxine Fairholm Stewart
1928-2026

Our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, LaVaun Maxine Fairholm Stewart, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2026, at the remarkable age of 98. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, hard work, devotion to family, and a life well lived.

LaVaun was born on January 12, 1928, to Leo Rex and Kate Smith Fairholm in what is now Millcreek, Utah. She graduated from Granite High School and later attended Brigham Young University for a time.

She met the love of her life, Bryce Edmond Stewart, and the two were married on December 7, 1953, in the Salt Lake Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Together they built a marriage, a family, and eventually a business that became an important part of their lives and their family’s story.

LaVaun and Bryce first settled in Sandy, Utah, where three of their four sons—Mark, Michael, and Geoffrey—were born. As their family grew, they moved to a larger home in Cottonwood Heights, where their youngest son, Rick, was born.

Throughout her life, LaVaun was willing to work hard and take on whatever needed to be done. She held a variety of jobs, including teaching dance lessons and bookkeeping. In 1972, she and Bryce began a pest control company that would eventually become Stewart’s Lawn and Pest Control in Utah County. In 1974, the family moved to Provo to be closer to their growing number of customers.

LaVaun was an essential part of the business from the beginning. She kept the office organized and running while Bryce and the three boys still living at home worked to provide exceptional service to their customers and care for their homes and yards. Stewart’s Lawn and Pest Control became their life’s work and a lasting testament to LaVaun and Bryce’s determination, partnership, and dedication to their family. They took great pride in what they built together.

LaVaun was a lifelong and devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Her faith was at the center of her life, and over the years she faithfully served in many Church callings. One of the experiences she cherished most was serving alongside Bryce at the Missionary Training Center in Provo. Her faith brought her strength, comfort, and purpose throughout her life, particularly following Bryce’s death in 2003. After his passing, she was grateful for the opportunity to return to the MTC and serve once again.

In 2006, LaVaun moved to American Fork, Utah, where she began another meaningful chapter of her life. She became involved with the local chapter of the Daughters of Utah Pioneers and especially enjoyed discovering the stories of her ancestors and learning more about those who helped settle Utah. During her years in American Fork, she also formed many cherished friendships that brought great happiness to her life.

LaVaun was happiest close to home and never had much interest in traveling herself, but she delighted in hearing about the adventures of her children and grandchildren. She genuinely wanted to know where they were going, what they were doing, and what was happening in their lives. Her family was a source of tremendous pride and joy to her.

She also had a lifelong curiosity and desire to learn. She became especially interested in natural approaches to health and physical well-being and developed considerable knowledge and skill in the use of natural oils.

Above all, LaVaun’s life was centered on the things she valued most: her faith, her family, meaningful work, and service to others. Her 98 years were filled with change, challenges, accomplishment, love, and devotion. Her family is deeply grateful for her example and proud of the life she lived and the legacy she leaves behind.

LaVaun was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bryce, and her son, Mark. She is survived by her sister, Sharon Delis; Mark’s wife, Terri Stewart; her sons, Michael (Vicky), Geoffrey, and Rick (Lisa); as well as 16 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren, who will carry her memory and legacy forward.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by the generations of family whose lives were shaped by her faith, strength, sacrifice, and love.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, August 21, 2026, at the chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located at 270 North 900 East, American Fork, Utah. A viewing will be held prior to the funeral service from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.

LaVaun’s family would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Suzie Wilson, her longtime friend and caregiver; to the staff of Aspen Senior Care, especially Heather McAllister; to the staff of IHC Home and Hospice; and to the staff of Monument Health Center. We are deeply grateful for the kindness, compassion, and invaluable care they provided during the final weeks and months of LaVaun’s life.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.warenski.com

08/12/2026

Lenore Rena Vandenberg Mendenhall
1931 ~ 2026

Lenore Rena Vandenberg Mendenhall was, born to exquisite parents on April 8th, 1931. In the Dee Hospital in Ogden Utah.

Her Mother, Arienna Stok Vandenberg immigrated to the United States from the Netherlands in 1927 as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Her Father John Henry Vandenberg was born to parents who immigrated to the United States from the Netherlands as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. John Henry was called to be the Presiding Bishop of the Church, an assistant to The Twelve Apostles and a member of the First Quorum of the Seventies and was made Emeritus at the age of 75.

Lenore was reared in a Gospel Centered, gracious living home.

She moved to Denver, Colorado at the age of nine. She, her Sister Norine age 5, and their Parents resided in a lovely home on 830 Bonnie Brae Blvd. She attended Washington Park elementary school, Byers Jr. High School and graduated from South High School. In High School she was President of a Sub Deb Sorority where the members were taught social etiquette. She also received an art scholarship to Chapelle House Art Academy, she studied piano at The Lamont School of Music and took a self improvement course at Morgantie Modeling agency.

Paul and Lenore were married June, 10th, 1954 in the Salt Lake Temple. After ten years of marriage she and Paul discovered they had been in the first grade together at Quincy Elementary School in Ogden Utah.

After their marriage Paul and Lenore moved to Honolulu Hawaii where Paul worked for Home Factors. They later moved to Salt Lake City and then Alpine, Utah.

The couple have four sons, Michael John, Mathew Wendell, Martin Paul and Marc Bronco Clay Mendenhall all athletes excelling in skiing, football, Moto Cross racing. The boys interest in athletics produced a skier, known as, "King of the Mountain by his fellow skiers, an N.F.L. football player, a Mr. Utah body builder champion and a Head Football Coach.

Lenore appreciated the opportunities to sere in the L.D.S. Church in Primary, Young Women's, Relief Society leadership and teaching positions and as Jr. Sunday School Coordinator. She never felt qualified to serve in any of these positions but Heavenly Father took care of that.

Lenore loved having Polynesia woven throughout her life. Her first visit to the Hawaiian Islands was in 1952, where she and friends became good friends with the Beach Boys at Kuhio Beach. Many years later she met one of these Beach Boys in the Cook Islands He was serving a mission for the L.D.S. Church with his wife there. She and Paul lived in Honolulu for a while, Paul served a mission in New Zealand as a young man and later called to be the Mission President of the Auckland New Zealand Mission which included the Cook Islands at that time. Paul’s Father Wendell, His son Mary and His Nephew all have served missions in New Zealand.

Lenore enjoyed the arts, oil painting, classical music and observing her Grandchildren's development..

The Gospel of Jesus Christ was the single most significant influence in her life, especially as it was manifested in New Zealand while she' assisted her Husband as He was serving as Mission President. She has said, "from the age of remembrance I have felt the Spirit of my Father in Heaven protecting and influencing me.

A Private family Graveside service was held for Lenore on August 10, 2026 at the Alpine City Cemetery.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.warenski.com

08/11/2026

Shari Ann Holding Beck
July 16, 1963 – August 7, 2026

Shari Ann Beck, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, niece, and friend to all, peacefully passed away August 7, 2026 after battling years of lung and bone cancer. She also faced acute leukemia due to her prolonged cancer treatments. Shari was residing in her Pleasant Grove home with her husband, Thomas W. Beck.

Shari was born on July 16, 1963, to Ralph and Renee Holding and has shared her life with siblings Tina R. Holding, Ralph O. Holding Jr., and Lori S. Holgate. Shari began her life in Amarillo, Texas, and as a toddler moved to Glidden Way in Fremont, California. There she attended Maloney Elementary School, Centerville Jr. High, and Washington High School. Shari spent much of her youth involved in community service, school leadership positions, athletics, and religious activities. Shari has remained friends with many of those she met during her high school years.

Shari made her career as a bookkeeper, accountant, piano teacher, school teacher, and real estate agent. She was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She served in many capacities, such as a temple worker, Young Women’s president, Primary president, and primary chorister. Most recently she served as a Relief Society teacher in the Mount Mahogany 4th Ward following her cancer diagnosis.

Shari had a passion for her family, friends, and neighbors. To Shari, people were always the most important part of life. She was a light to many and daily tried to lift those around her. In her final years, her positive attitude, tenacity, and smile were an inspiration to those who knew her.

Shari is preceded in death by her father, Ralph O. Holding Sr., and her brother, Ralph O. Holding Jr. Shari is survived by her husband, Thomas W. Beck, and their four children and spouses: Steven and Rachel Beck, Sara and Mohammed Ismail, Shalisa and Dallin Kimber, and Cynthia Beck, as well as her five grandchildren: Sophie, Camden, Annika, Emilia, and Hannah. Shari also leaves behind her mother, Betty R. Holding; her sister Tina R. Holding; her sister Lori S. Holgate and her family; and many more Beck and Hunt nieces and nephews.

Shari’s viewing will be held at the Warenski Funeral Home on Friday, August 14, 2026, from 6:00–8:00 PM, located at 1776 North 900 East, American Fork, Utah 84003.

The interment will be held the following day at Highland City Cemetery preceding the services. The celebration of her life will be held at the family’s Ward Chapel at 11:00 AM, located at 1548 North 900 West, Pleasant Grove, Utah 84062. For those unable to attend in person, there will be a livestream link to the memorial service here: https://www.wasql.com/cah/4.

A luncheon will take place immediately following the memorial services at the same building.

Please stay and greet the family upon the conclusion of the services.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.warenski.com

08/10/2026

Ramon John Roberts
June 28th, 1969 - August 7th 2026

Ramon John Roberts, 57, passed away on August 7, 2026, in Mapleton, Utah, after a hard fought battle against cancer.

Ramon was born in American Fork, Utah, to Edward Carmen Roberts and Thiele Anderson Roberts. He grew up in Pleasant Grove, Utah, and was the youngest of nine children. His siblings are Randy, Steven, Dan, Rea, David, Rachel, Sherel, and Mary. He loved his family dearly. Ramon enjoyed spending time outdoors as a youth. From hunting to gardening, he was constantly outside and loved the freedom of the wilderness. It suited his wild, fun, ambitious nature.

He graduated from Pleasant Grove High School in 1987. He attended Utah Valley Community College and studied psychology while working in construction and, for a time, at his father’s company. Shortly thereafter, he served a full-time mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Córdoba, Argentina. He learned to love the gospel and trust in his Heavenly Father through dedicated service. He returned to school, where he began serving as a member of the LDS Institute council. Through this service, he met his sweetheart Jennifer.

Ramon and Jennifer had a whirlwind courtship and were engaged in June 1992. Shortly thereafter, Jennifer had an accident, and Ramon valiantly stayed by her side, cementing their love as she recovered. They were married in the Manti Utah Temple on October 9, 1992, where they were sealed for time and all eternity. They raised four freaking awesome children: Randy, Lindsey, Camille, and Joshua. The family created memories in Orem and Lindon, Utah, before moving to Mapleton where they settled. Their evenings were full of adventure on the ATV while the family dog, Chevy, ran and played alongside the kids.

Ramon worked in the real estate industry for 30 years. He worked at his uncle’s title company and learned to investigate the history of each property as a title searcher. He worked hard to receive the proper training and licensing to become a real estate appraiser. He expanded his experience and knowledge by working in many different facets of the industry, becoming a master of his field.

Ramon served valiantly in the Church as a counselor in different bishoprics, a trusted Young Men’s advisor, and a true disciple of Christ. He lived the principles of the gospel and helped each individual do likewise. His influence on the young men in the Scouting program changed lives. His testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ was shared freely and courageously. His absolute love for each individual around him was contagious. He made everyone feel like they were his favorite person, because they were.

Ramon continued to have a love for the outdoors and was a wannabe adrenaline ju**ie. He always sought out unique experiences to make memories with family. He wouldn’t turn away anyone who needed his help, including all the critters. Through these activities, he was able to forge connections and uplift the one. He loved to make those around him laugh and taught correct principles through wholesome recreational activities.

More than adventure and fun, Ramon loved to serve. He went out of his way to offer service to those in need. After visiting a small town in San Quintín, Mexico on a family service trip, he created Hands on Hope, a nonprofit organization whose mission was to provide humanitarian aid in Baja Mexico. Since 2014, he led hundreds of participants on multiple service missions, constructing homes, feeding the hungry, and spreading the Light of Christ. Ramon always said that anything worth doing was worth doing right, whether it was the service you provided or how you treated the people around you. His family gave him the motivation to be the best version of himself.

Ramon was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Carmen Roberts and Thiele Anderson Roberts, and his brothers, Randy Roberts and Steven Roberts.

He is survived by his wife, Jennifer Lynn Roberts, his children, Randy Edward (Megan), Lindsey Marin (Caleb), Camille Faith (Benjamin), and Joshua John, and his grandchildren, Eddie and Jack. He is also survived by his many siblings, nieces and nephews, and Jennifer’s family, who loved him as one of their own.

Ramon loved big, and he was loved bigger and more than he ever knew.

Funeral Services for Ramon will be held on Thursday August 13, 2026 at 11:00 am in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Chapel located at 1350 West 800 South St, Mapleton, Utah. Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Wednesday evening August 12, 2026 from 6:00-8:00 pm at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Chapel located at 1350 West 800 South St, Mapleton, Utah, and also an additional viewing on Thursday morning from 9:30-10:30 am prior to the service.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.warenski.com

08/07/2026

Douglas Walter Krahenbuhl
1955 ~ 2026

Douglas Walter Krahenbuhl passed away peacefully on August 5, 2026, surrounded by his family at home. He was 71 years old. Doug was diagnosed with ALS earlier this year and faced the rapid decline of his health with the strong, independent spirit we all knew and loved him for.

Doug was born in Peoria, Illinois on July 30, 1955. His parents, Arthur and Rosette, had immigrated from Switzerland five years before, and Doug completed their family of seven. The family moved to Ogden, Utah in 1960, and Doug was enamored with the natural beauty of Utah for the rest of his life. He always said, "I've been to the Alps, but all the beauty I need is right here in my own backyard."

Doug was a deeply devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in the Germany Düsseldorf mission from 1974-76. He met Janece while they were both working at the Missionary Training Center, and they were married in the Salt Lake Temple on August 11, 1981. They raised four beautiful children together in Pleasant Grove and Sandy before moving to Alpine in 2004.

Doug relished time in the great outdoors and inspired this love in his children through many camping, hiking, and fishing trips with his family. He had a lifelong passion for river fishing and never tired of a long day on the Provo. He also enjoyed tending his magical fairy garden and waterfall in the backyard, and he grew the best peaches in the neighborhood.

Initially Doug considered a career in ichthyology while at Utah State University, before a career counselor suggested he look into physical therapy. He applied for the PT program at the University of Utah three times before being accepted — studying education at Brigham Young University and working as a fourth-grade teacher in the interim — and his perseverance paid off. Physical therapy was a perfect fit for Doug, and his 40-year career in private practice and home health allowed him to make his passion his work. He had the rare privilege of doing what he loved every day: giving service and helping people restore function in their bodies and live healthy, active lives. Anyone who knew Doug knows his eyes would light up at the mention of an ankle sprain or a knee or back problem, and he'd be at your house in a flash to teach you some stretches and help you back to full health. His kindness, compassion, and service to his patients and community will never be forgotten.

Doug spent the last 12 years writing two books about his two passions: physical therapy and his LDS faith. His daughter Rebecca helped him publish them, and they are available on Amazon:
Restoring Function: https://amzn.to/4xiZGiM
Moral Agency: A Covenant Path of Creation: https://amzn.to/45Jbv6e

Doug is preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Friedrich Franz Krahenbuhl and Rosette Rindisbacher Krahenbuhl Richan, and his brothers Alfred (Nancy) and Kenneth (Jolene). He is survived by his wife Janece; his children Aaron Douglas (Gina Falcone), Daniel Arthur (Alina Austin), Rebecca (Filippo Faustini), and Rachel (Nick McMenamin); grandchildren Zoe Hohenshelt, Alexis Gurule, Zaida Hohenshelt, Kaylee McCown, and Macey Krahenbuhl; brother Mark; and sister Joanne Hall (Mike).

Doug's family wishes to express their deep appreciation for the Enhabit Hospice team for the incredible care they showed to Doug and the family in his final months.

Funeral services for Douglas will be held on Friday, August 14, 2026 at 11:00 am in the Temple View Ward Chapel located at, 676 North Eagle View Drive Alpine, Utah. Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Friday morning from 9:00-10:30 am prior to service at the church. Interment will be held at the Midway City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Doug's name to:

ALS United: https://www.alsunited.org/donate

University of Utah PT alumni scholarship: https://giving.utah.edu/funds/physical-therapy-alumni-scholarship/

Those who would like to view the Funeral service for Douglas virtually are encouraged to contact the family for the link.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.warenski.com

08/05/2026

Jeffery Bruce Wood
June 14, 1965 – August 3, 2026

Jeffery Bruce Wood, 61, of American Fork, Utah, passed away on August 3, 2026, surrounded by family after a courageous battle against cancer. Born June 14, 1965 (Flag Day), in Brigham City, Utah, to Bruce Darold Wood and Nell Wigington, Jeff lived his life with unmatched energy, determination, a love for adventure, and more importantly, his love for the Savior.

Jeff graduated from Box Elder High School in 1983. In 1984, he honorably served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Auckland, New Zealand, an experience that remained an important part of his life, that he was able to revisit with close friends before his passing.

Jeff truly embodied the saying, "work hard, play harder." He grew up on two wheels and was an incredibly talented dirt bike rider. One of his many accomplishments was winning his age group at the Widowmaker race in 2003. He was a skilled craftsman who had a love for woodworking. Whether he was chasing the next ride or enjoying an ice-cold Red Bull, Jeff embraced every moment with enthusiasm and lived life on his own terms.

Jeff married Eliza McGaha in 1985, where they started their family in Brigham City and had four beautiful children. In 2009, Jeff married his Georgia peach, Kiplan Blair Wood. Together they built a beautiful life centered around family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Kip; his eight incredible children, Andy Wood, Adam Wood, Rhett Wood (Brenna), Regan Wood, McKenna Blair Carson, Eli Blair (Rachel), Noah Blair, and Sy Blair; his 11 beautiful grandchildren, who knew him as Papa, who brought him immense pride and joy; as well as his wonderful mom, Nell Wood; and his siblings, Todd Wood (Hope), Tracy Meadows (Matt), and Kate Bell (Bryce).

Jeff was preceded in death by his father, Bruce Wood; and his grandparents, Charles and Marg Nichols.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Jeff's life at the North Stake Center 975 North 60 East, American Fork, Utah 84003. A viewing will be held on Monday, August 10, 2026 from 6:30–8:30 p.m., and again on Tuesday, August 11, 2026 from 10:30–11:30 a.m. Funeral services will follow at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 11, 2026.

Jeff will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his unwavering work ethic, his deep love for his family, and the countless memories he created with those fortunate enough to know him. His legacy will live on in every trail ridden, every story shared, and every life he touched.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.warenski.com

08/04/2026

Thomas Larry Bates
1940 ~ 2026

Thomas Larry Bates passed away peacefully on August 2, 2026 in Lehi, Utah.

Tom was born November 29, 1940, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to William M. Bates and Addie Jean VanZandt. He was the 2nd of 4 children and spent his childhood in Cheyenne and Rawlins,
Wyoming, graduating from Cheyenne High School in 1958.

Following high school, Tom was awarded a scholarship to Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Although circumstances prevented him from attending, his passion for learning never waivered. He completed a four-year electrical apprenticeship becoming a licensed electrician at 22 years old. Tom enrolled at the University of Wyoming, where he earned his bachelor's degree in electrical engineering in 1966. He later obtained a Master’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of Utah in 1971.

On August 7, 1965 he married Jo Ann Durrant in Cheyenne, Wyoming. They were later sealed in the Salt Lake LDS Temple. Together they built a loving home and family with their four children.

Tom enjoyed a distinguished 34 year career as a software engineer with Sperry Rand, UNIVAC, and L-3 Harris.

Outside of work, Tom embraced life with enthusiasm and a spirit of adventure. He loved geocaching, mountain biking, wood carving, camping, fishing, riding 4 wheelers, gardening, and woodworking. He also had a love for the scouting program and spent many years as a boy
scout leader. Music was another life- long passion. He played guitar with a group of friends and was an accomplished clarinet player with the Wasatch Winds Orchestra. Tom loved sharing his hobbies and talents with family and friends, especially his grandchildren.

More than any accomplishment, Tom’s greatest joy was his family. He especially cherished being a grandpa. He treasured every opportunity to spend time with them, and he created lasting memories that they will all cherish forever.

Tom was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints where he served in many callings throughout his life. His quiet faith, willingness to serve and Christlike example blessed the lives of many. He believed in lifelong learning, hard work, and serving others with humility and kindness. He approached life with intelligence and a quiet confidence that inspired those around him.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his infant brother, William; his sister, Mary Ellen Leonard; and his brother, John Carlton Bates.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Jo Ann Bates; His children, Dan Bates, Kerry (Jason) Coe, Chris (Kemy) Bates, Mary Ann (Sam) Butikofer, and his 7 beloved grandchildren: Britton (Trudy) Coe, Gavin (Madison) Coe, Addisyn Coe (currently serving a mission in Barcelona Spain), Mia Butikofer, Trevon Butkofer, Daxton Butikofer, and Coen Bates. He was also joyfully anticipating the arrival of his 1st great grandchild due in September. He is also survived by sister in laws, Earlene Durrant, Guyna Ogata and Sheila Iversen, a brother in law, Scott Durrant, a niece and nephews.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, caregivers and staff who lovingly cared for Tom during the final months of his life. Their compassion and kindness brought comfort to both Tom and his family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints missionary fund.

A viewing will be held Saturday, August 8 from 9:30 - 10:30 am - Funeral services to follow at 11:00 am at the Highland Utah Stake Center located at 5335 W. 11200 N., Highland Utah, 84003.

Funeral will also be streamed via Zoom:
https://zoom.us/j/92187546664?pwd=N7v9XIMUST3pLj3B40qgSHe13XfQHA.1

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.warenski.com

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