Vivian Arlene Curtis Eckersley

On the beautiful spring morning of April 17, 2005, Vivian Arlene Curtis Eckersley, returned to her heavenly home, something she had longed for. Vivian was born on August 18, 1914, in Hyrum, Utah. She was the daughter of Ida Amanda Petersen and Levi David Curtis. She was the eighth child of nine children. Of the nine children, she was the only one left living. She gained her education in Hyrum elementary schools and South Cache High. As a child, she could take an egg to the grocery store and get some candy. She would take the cows to pasture, up and over the hill into what is now the bottom of Hyrum Dam. She watched her mother sew her clothes on a treadle machine and rode to Pocatello Valley each harvest in a covered wagon. She often commented on what an adventure this was. The 4th of July was a big celebration in Hyrum when she was a young girl. It was big enough to interest a group of 13 year old boys from Smithfield to hop a freight train to Hyrum to play for the day. That day, in the park she met one of these young Smithfield boys, Arden Eckersley. Eleven years later, at the age of 22, she married him. On October 5, 1936, she married Arden in Salt Lake City, Utah. They made Smithfield their permanent home, where they raised their five children: Arden Lyle Ursula of Rio Doso, NM; Sharon Norr Hendricks, Smithfield; Judy Don Burkhead, Simi Valley, CA; Nansi James Bingham, Amalga; and Jan Bruce Allen, Smithfield. Vivian was a member of the LDS church. Her life has been one of devotion and service. She faithfully fulfilled various church callings in the Relief Society, Sunday School and Primary, as well as temple service, which she enjoyed very much. She was always supportive to her husband in his church callings, as well as in his occupational needs. She was a loving and faithful wife for 68 years, always making their home a pleasant and happy place to be. They were parted the last 13 months by Arden?s passing on March 2, 2004. Vivian became accomplished in many things, none of which will make her famous or renowned through the ages, except in the hearts of her children. She raised her children with love and kindness, with a soft voice, even when she was being firm. She faithfully took her children to church each Sunday and encouraged them to be obedient to God. She was a good example. She showed her daughters the role of a wife and mother and how to be a good homemaker. Being self-reliant was important. Teaching us to garden, can our harvest, sew our own clothes and be tidy, was just a part of doing our chores. She taught her son the responsibility of being a good brother and son, to take care of himself and to respect womanhood. She was a great cook. Aromas from the kitchen on a cold winters day was really something to die for. The kindness she extended to others was done quietly and without a need for recognition. She encouraged all of her children to learn music, both by voice and by instrument. Their music has brought her much joy throughout her life. One of her special talents is that of a peacemaker. She was a sweet and gentle soul. She was never contentious. Her home was one of safety and peace to her children and husband. When we would be ready to leave for church or school, she would remind us that ?we were never fully dressed without a smile.? We are sure that Mom was smiling as she was released from this life, to join her husband and other family members in heaven. She is survived by her 5 children, 17 grandchildren and 33 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Arden, her parents, 5 brothers, 3 sisters and 2 grandsons. Funeral services will be held at 12:00 noon Friday, April 22, 2005 at the Smithfield North Stake Center, 155 West 400 North, Smithfield. Friends and family may call from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday evening at Nelson Funeral Home, 85 South Main, Smithfield and Friday morning from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the church prior to services. Interment will be in the Smithfield City Cemetery. Condolences may be extended to the family online at www.nelsonfuneralhome.com . The family would like to thank the staff of Sunshine Terrace for their many kindnesses, and the gentle and loving care they gave to our Mom these past 8 months.