Our hearts are tender as we ponder the special life of our dad and grandpa, Dell Tolman Harmon. He passed away at the age of 93 on June 27, 2022, peacefully surrounded by family. It is such an honor for us to be his children. We have often commented how special our parents were and how lucky we were to have them in our lives. Though we will miss him dearly, we rejoice in the reunions going on in heaven, especially with our mom (Veva) and sister (Joyce), his mom, dad, and siblings.
Dell had a calming spirit about him, and people were naturally drawn to him. We often observed that we could never go anywhere with him where he was not known or recognized, no matter where it was, even way up in Alaska! He was known and loved by so many. Dell received bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Brigham Young University and the University of Utah respectively. He taught math and physics to thousands of students at Kearns Jr and Sr High School, Taylorsville High School, as well as Brigham Young University. His teaching skills were unrivaled. He could teach a concept to anyone, not only math and physics, but also valuable life lessons. Many of his former students have said that he was the best teacher they ever had. In 1980 he was awarded “Teacher of the Year” in the State of Utah.
He was a valiant disciple of Jesus Christ, and served Him throughout his life, influencing many as a dedicated ecclesiastical leader in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He served as a young missionary in the Samoan Islands, a leader of young men (The Boy Scouts of America presented him the coveted Silver Beaver Award), Bishop, Stake presidency counselor, and Patriarch. Dell and Veva served a mission together in San Diego after he retired, and they served as temple workers for many years in the Jordan River Temple.
However, his greatest legacy is his posterity. He is a beloved grandpa by more than 90 grands and greats. They love him so much. His treats were legendary, and his love was genuine. Each member of his family knew that they mattered to him. Every one of them had the privilege of “standing on his hand” before they could even walk! We are so glad that our children and grands have had the privilege of knowing and loving him. His legacy and influence for good will span generations.
He was born and raised in Star Valley, Wyoming in the little town of Fairview, just west of Afton. He was the last of his siblings to be born in their family’s log cabin. Dad was the seventh of 14 children born to Walter and LaPrele Harmon. As a young man Dell was an accomplished boxer, achieving Golden Gloves status. While he was serving as a missionary in Samoa, his family moved to Provo, Utah. Upon his return, he met, fell in love with, and married the love of his life, Veva Anderson. Shortly after they were married Dell served in the Army during the Korean War. Together they raised six children.
Dell was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and LaPrele Harmon; siblings, Waldo, Alice, Duane, Rhondo, Wyoma, Sybil, and Gaylen; his wife and sweetheart, Veva Renee Anderson Harmon, and his daughter Joyce Renee Harmon Kimball. He is survived by his siblings David (Joy), Jay, Alan, Layle (Marie), Roger (Maxine) and Gloria (Paul); his children Kirt (Maureen), Connie (Dan), Rob (Heidi), Neil (Anese) and Russell; 28 grandchildren and 63 great grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at the Midvale North Stake Center (97 West 7500 South, Midvale, Utah) on Saturday, July 9 at 11:00 am. Viewings will be held on Friday, July 8 from 6-8 pm, and on Saturday morning (9:30 to 10:30 am prior to the funeral services). Both viewings will be held in the same building (Stake Center). Interment will be in the Midvale City Cemetery.
The family would like to thank the healthcare and hospice workers who so lovingly care for our Father.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Humanitarian Aid department of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The services will be livestreamed at the following link:
https://tinyurl.com/MidvaleNorthStakeVirtual
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