Joseph David Byers

Joseph David Byers, 17, beloved son, brother and friend, returned to his heavenly home on Wednesday, January 14, 2004. He was born February 14, 1986, on Mountain Home A.F.B., Idaho to David and Cathi Lowdermilk Byers. Joe was a priest in the Smithfield 5th Ward of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He was an Eagle Scout. He was Vice President of his Senior Class at Sky View High School, where he lettered three years in football as a defensive tackle and offensive guard and was a captain of the football team. Joe received several football awards, including the Vince Lombardi award for Offensive Lineman, All-Valley First Team, All- Region First Team and All-State Second Team. He also wrestled and participated in track for two years. Joe was a member of the National Honor Society, a member of the Smithfield City Youth Council, an FBLA Officer, a National Merit Scholarship Semi-finalist and a recipient of the Colorado School of Mines Math and Science Scholarship. He had recently received both a Presidential and a Congressional nomination to the United States Air Force Academy. Joe was full of life and blessed with great intelligence, a mischievous humor and a strong sense of responsibility. Joe was a loyal friend and was loved and admired by all who knew him. He will be greatly missed. Joe is preceded in death by his grandfather, Leland John Byers. He is survived by his parents, David and Cathi Byers; sisters: Lisa Dalley Steve, Columbus, Ohio; Brittany and Kristin Byers, Smithfield; and brother, Daniel Byers, Smithfield. He is also survived by his grandparents: LaVerne Byers, Vernal, Utah; Darrell and Lynne Lowdermilk, Rifle, Colorado; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 17, 2004 at the Smithfield Stake Center, 600 East 120 North. Friends and family may call at the church prior to services from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m.Sunday, January 18, 2004 at the Independence Village Commons, 225 North Coulson, Fruita, Colorado. Interment will be in the Elmwood Cemetery in Fruita. Condolences may be extended to the family online at www.nelsonfuneralhome.com .