Leo Mikkelsen Pitcher

Smithfield ? Leo M Pitcher passed away in his home at the age of 91 on December 27, 2007 of natural causes. He was born in Smithfield, Utah on November 11, 1916 to George Parley Pitcher and Carrie Orletta Mikkelson. Leo lived in Smithfield his entire life. He attended Summit School until the 8th grade, after which he worked on the family farm. Leo married the love of his life, Helen Marie Petty, on June 19, 1935, a marriage that lasted 72 wonderful years. Their marriage was later solemnized in t he Logan temple. Together they built a dairy farm of their own and raised five children. Leo will be best remembered as an accomplished dairyman. He truly loved being in the fields raising tremendous crops and milking his cows. His farming days stated long before tractors and other modern machinery. His animals were his greatest assets for many years. He told many stories of using horses and primitive implements to accomplish his daily tasks. Even after turning the farm over to his son, he could still be found on a tractor into his late 80?s. Along with farming, Leo often worked part-time for Cantwell Brother?s Lumber Company and Del Monte. He was also an active member of the Cutter Racing Association in Smithfield and enjoyed spending time at the old R and G?s Restaurant. Leo also found much joy in his family. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. They all learned to admire him. Leo was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Leo is survived by his wife, Marie; his children: Lewis Mary Lee Pitcher; Sally Perry Crossley, R.L. Sandi Pitcher, Jon Joyce Pitcher, Danny Pitcher, 24 grandchildren, 80 great grandchildren, and 15 great-great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents; his siblings: George Pitcher, Mary Povey, Ella Hammer, Helen Reese, Elaine Carlson, Doris Ashton; three grandchildren: Duke Pitcher, Kurt Pitcher, Scott Pitcher; and one great grandchild, Levi Pitcher. Funeral services will be held at noon Monday, December 31, 2007 at the Smithfield 10th Ward Chapel, 345 East 300 South, Smithfield, Utah with Bishop Kyle Griffiths conducting. Friends and family may call at the church Sunday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. and Monday morning from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. Interment will be in the Smithfield City Cemetery. Condolences may be extended to the family online at www.nelsonfuneralhome.com .