John Kent Hortin

Smithfield - Our devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, John Kent Hortin, returned to our Father in Heaven in the early morning hours of March 21, 2003 in Logan, Utah, after a courageous eight month battle with glioblastoma multiform brain tumor. Kent was born on February 15, 1934, in Oakley, Utah, to William Eugene and Pearl Franson Hortin. He grew up in Oakley, Utah, attended South Summit High School and graduated from Utah State University. He married his sweetheart and eternal companion, Deon Casper, in the Salt Lake Temple on August 27, 1954. They cherished their 48 years together. They raised five loving children. Kent received an officer commission in the US Army Reserve and served for many years in Field Artillery where he attained the rank of Captain. His three little boys loved marching in the shadow of their father while wearing their own army fatigues. He spent his career working for the Soil Conservation Service USDA for 38 years. During this time he lived in Ogden, Panguitch, Delta, Taylorsville, and Smithfield, Utah. After retiring he also spent much time working with the Bear River Water Users Association and the Bear River Small Irrigators Association. His service affected many farmers and ranchers throughout Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming. Kent was a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He served in many different callings including bishop, bishop?s counselor, high councilor, Young Men?s president, and ward clerk. He served an honorable mission with his wife to the Deseret Cattle and Citrus Ranch in St. Cloud, Florida. His most satisfying calling was as temple officiator in the Orlando Temple for one and a half years and in the Logan Temple for four years. He was a very dedicated dad and grandpa and enjoyed spoiling his grandchildren. He loved to cook pancakes on Saturday mornings, and his children and grandchildren claimed that nobody made pancakes like he did. He could often be found on a ball field cheering on his grandchildren or attending piano and dance recitals. Kent was happiest when surrounded by his family, especially at our annual family reunion. Kent is survived by his wife and children Scott Julie of Elko, NV; Bret Pam of Sandy; Randy Cheryla of West Valley City; Patti of Clearfield, and John Sherilyn of Smithfield and brothers Kay Joan of Midvale; Dee ReNae of Honeyville and sister-in-law Hope of Salt Lake. He also leaves behind 16 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his best friend and protector, Bo Willy. Preceded in death by his baby sister, Gwen, his mother and father, his brother, Dale, and his grandson, Joseph. Funeral services will be held at noon on Tuesday, March 25, 2003, at the Smithfield Eighth Ward, 155 West 400 North, Smithfield. Friends and family may call on Monday, March 24, 2003 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Nelson Funeral Home, 85 South Main, Smithfield, or from 10:30 to 11:30 AM at the church prior to services. Burial will be at the Smithfield Cemetery. The family wishes to express their gratitude to the staff of IHC Hospice, Heritage Brookside Home Care and the doctors and nursing staff of LDS Hospital and Logan Regional Hospital for their loving and tender care of Kent. Kent, you possessed those qualities which makes us sure heaven will be a richer place because you are there. You taught us how to serve others unselfishly and our lives are better because of you. We love you, Dad. Condolence may be sent to the family at www.nelsonfuneralhome.com