Our much beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, Don William Ence, passed away in the home that he loved, surrounded by his family Saturday morning, August 25, 2001. He left us in the same gentle manner in which he lived.

Dad was born Jan 21, 1912 in Richfield, UT the sixth of eight children born to Lehi and Rebecca Dall Ence. After spending an exciting childhood in Richfield, the family moved to Salt Lake in the mid-1920's. His associations with his many friends in the Scouting program in the Forest Dale Ward, where he was an Eagle Scout, provided many lifetime memories.

In the early 1930's, a new girl, Lillian Edith Jenkins, moved into the ward with her family and he was immediately captivated by her charm. He waited patiently until she was ready, and they were then married in the Salt Lake LDS Temple by David O. McKay Oct 7, 1935. Dad and Mom shared 52 wonderful years together until she passed away Nov 20, 1987. One of their favorite pastimes was spent in attending U of U football and basketball games and both were honored as "Super Fans."

Dad was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Capitol Hill 2nd Ward. One of his favorite callings was working with the youth as the Scoutmaster. Dad's life was one of compassion and service to others. His greatest legacy was his family.

View Comments

He is survived by his sister, Betty Woolf; two sons, Bill (Lois), Worcester, MA, Tom (Pat), Calabasas, CA; two daughters, Liz (Dennis) Mangrum, Brooke, Salt Lake City; 15 grandchildren, Mike, Heidi, Erik, Melissa, Joe, Dan, Meg, Liz, Lindsey, Tom, Catherine, Creed, Heather, Tyler, Whitney; and 14 great-grandchildren.

His life was enriched by the love of many grandchildren, especially Melissa, Joe, and Audri who have lived close by and cared for him. A special thanks to his granddaughter, Heather, whose loving care allowed him to remain in his home these last years. Like her grandmother, Lillian, her lists and constant reminders kept him organized and on track each day.

Services will be Thurs. Aug 30, 2001, 12 noon at the Ensign Peak LDS Ward chapel, 125 E. North Sandrun Rd, located at the base of the mountain that he loved to hike. Friends and family may call at Larkin Mortuary, 260 E. South Temple, Wed. 6-8 p.m. and at the church Thurs. one hour prior to the services. Interment, Salt Lake City Cemetery.

We'll miss you Dad, but we know that you're now able to hear Mom playing the piano for you again. Enjoy the serenade!

Join the Conversation
Looking for comments?
Find comments in their new home! Click the buttons at the top or within the article to view them — or use the button below for quick access.