Irvin Wells Stevens, Jr.
1923 ~ 2007
Irvin Wells Stevens, Jr., 84, devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, slipped from this mortality and was reunited with his wife Dorothy on Sept. 24, 2007, their 61st wedding anniversary. Wells, the oldest son of Irvin Wells Stevens, Sr. and Martha Robinson, was born in El Paso, Texas on April 1, 1923. He was later joined by three younger brothers and one beautiful sister: LeRoy (Elaine),
Robert (Sue), Jack (Geri) and
Martha Jean of Salt Lake City. Preceded in death by his parents and brothers, LeRoy and Robert.
Wells was raised in a loving home in an era which required great sacrifice and thus nurtured close family ties. During the great depression, his family moved frequently seeking work. Wells' life was then, and always, defined by service -- service to his Lord and Savior, to his country, to his beloved wife, to his family and to his community. Through his service we all discovered a man of integrity, with an enormous capacity for love, compassion and a sense of humor that created an immediate connection with all he met. Wells was an amazing force for good in this world.
At Ogden High School, despite the trials of the times, Wells' characteristic enthusiastic love for life was expressed through happy friendships and big band music, particularly through the venue of his band, the Rhythm Kings. Wells joined the United States Navy in 1943, achieving the rank of Lieutenant and earning his flight wings. It was during his military service in Corpus Christi, Texas that he met his wife to be, Dorothy Ann Jenkins. They corresponded during his military service, and after the war and a three week engagement, they were married in the Salt Lake Temple on September 24, 1946.
After receiving his Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics from the University of Utah in 1948 and becoming a father to their son Kent, Wells (with Dottie's whole-hearted encouragement) honored a previous commitment to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Leaving his young wife and son, Wells labored for two years in the Central Atlantic States Mission. His love for the people of West Virginia remained a source of joy throughout his life.
After his mission, Wells continued his education eventually receiving an Associate Degree in Accounting and Management in 1953 from Stevens Henager College and a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Utah in 1959, with academic honors. Wells began his long career in construction working at Butler Construction Company as an engineer. In 1962 Wells formed Stevens Engineering through which he worked with a diverse group of owners and clients on public and community projects.
In 1967, following the untimely death of his father, Wells' occupation shifted to the family business, Stevens Henager College. For the next seven years he worked with his mother and brothers to raise this small business college to one of the most respected junior colleges in the region. In 1974 the family sold
Stevens Henager College and Wells joined J. Ron Stacey Construction Company as Salt Lake manager. While there, he particularly enjoyed building the Alii Kai condominium project in Kauai and the Terrace Falls condominium project in Salt Lake City. After1985, Wells spent the remainder of his years advising and consulting companies in Utah and California. Throughout his engineering and construction career, Wells was dedicated to quality design, functional space and excellent workmanship.
During these years, his life of service also progressed. He served as a member of the Ensign Fifth Ward Bishopric, scoutmaster, young men's leader, teacher and high counselor. He was a member of the Kiwanis Club and many other community service organizations. Wells found great satisfaction in helping young people and had a unique ability to relate to youth. Many people have been the recipients of his wisdom, encouragement and genuine love. Wherever Wells served he built up those around him and his Christ-like example shone brightly.
Wells' greatest purpose throughout his life was always his love for the people. Above all of his accomplishments, his true love and joy centered on his wife and family. His family was his highest priority. In his optimistic and warm way he built foundations of love that will last throughout eternities. His genuine compassion was the core of his life, the power of his optimistic approach to difficulties was the benchmark of his success. His Christ-like love created bonds that will not be broken by time or death.
Wells is survived by his six children, Kent (Linda) of Gilbert, Arizona; Mark (Jean) of Salt Lake City; Bradley (Robin) of Phoenix, Arizona; Grant (Kim) of Alpharetta, Georgia; Todd (Elizabeth) of Salt Lake City and Joan (John) Christensen of Mesa, Arizona. Wells and Dottie have 25 grandchildren and 11+ great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held Sat. Sept. 29, 2007 at 12 noon in the Millcreek Stake Center, 4220 S. Jeannine Drive (440 E.) in Salt Lake City. Family and friends may call Friday from 6-8 p.m. at the Larkin Mortuary, 260 E. South Temple in Salt Lake City and Sat. from 10:30-11:30 a.m. prior to the funeral service at the stake center. Interment in the Salt Lake City Cemetery.