Jonas Albert Erekson 1917 ~ 2011
Jonas Albert Erekson, 94, passed through the veil and returned home on July 14, 2011. He was joyfully reunited with those he loved; his first wife, Ann (Laura Anstrus Jorgenson), his parents Julia M. Smith and Hugh H. Erekson and his three sisters, Ruth Holt, Margaret Monson and Veda Lubeck. We are grateful that he has gone home and is now free of pain. Jonas was born on May 24, 1917 in Kamas Utah. Until age 33 he enjoyed working on the family ranch and shared his stories often. He loved the outdoors and helped instill this passion in his children and grandchildren. When he moved to the city he became a welder to support his family. Jonas was very mechanically inclined and used his skill to help his children build and repair their homes. He worked hard and was very active throughout his life until a few years ago when a stroke limited his abilities. Jonas married his sweetheart, Ann, in the Salt Lake Temple on September 11, 1940. Together they raised their six children: Lorraine (Craig) Fox, Al (Nezla) Erekson, Don (Karen) Erekson, Sheldon Erekson, Alice (Loane) Miller and Annette Erekson. Jonas and Ann celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary before her passing in 1996. Jonas and Ann served in the Southwest Indian Mission in 1981, and later as ordinance workers in the Portland Temple. Jonas loved the temple and continued to work there until 2000. Jonas married Eileen Mary Fox in the Manti Temple on June 16, 2000. They were later sealed to her two children: Janet and Jason Sabin. Eileen devotedly cared for him until his death. He is survived by his wife, six children, 37 grandchildren, 69 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. A celebration and tribute of his life will be held during a funeral service at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 16, 2011 at the Midvale East Stake Center (240 E. 7570 S). Friends may visit with the family prior to the service from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. Funeral arrangements by Goff Mortuary. Interment at Redwood Memorial Estates. In lieu of flowers a contribution can be made to the Perpetual Education Fund of the LDS Church.