Edmund Lee Homer was born in Charlo, Montana, December 5, 1931. He was born to Edmund and Inez Homer. He was the middle child of 5 children. His younger years he lived in Charlo, Montana. His family moved to Salt Lake City in his youth. He graduated from South High School.
He was drafted in the Army. Because he had such flat feet he was assigned to be the camp cook at Camp Pendleton, California. He loved his Army days and learned how to cook (at least good cakes, which we all have benefited from over the years).
When he was discharged from the Army, he was lined up by his brother Eldon and met his wife Gwen Reber, who he has adored and loved his whole life through. He wouldn't give her the ring until a few weeks before the wedding because she had given back two other rings to previous suitors. But she hung onto him. She knew he was her perfect catch. They were married in the St. George Temple May 15, 1954 (66 years of love and adventure). Together they raised 7 children. The first 6 children were born in 7 years and then 15 years later came Randy, who was his side kick and made his retirement fun and kept him young.
He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where he faithfully served his whole life through. He served multiple times as scout master. He taught many boys not only life skills but also how to be honorable men of God. He served in multiple bishoprics and once as Bishop of the ward. He was in a Stake Presidency, and ended as Patriarch. He truly grew in stature and wisdom before God. His motto was "Everything I do, I do for the Lord."
Later in life he and Gwen served a mission to Lagos, Nigeria 1997-1998. They planned it so they would be gone on their mission the same time Randy was serving his mission. They entered the MTC a week apart, what a rarity to be in the MTC with your mom and dad. They went south to Africa and Randy headed north to Sweden.
Another joy of his life was serving in the Jordan River Temple. They felt honored to serve people from both sides of the veil. They especially loved when they were asked to serve specifically in the baptistery. He had some very spiritual and awesome experiences while there.
Dad loved working and playing with his children and his grandchildren. Whether it was a project at home or the cabin, deer hunting, slip n slides, card games (Mormon bridge or Rook being his favorite), snow skiing, snowmobiling and Lake Powell where he water skied until he was 83. He has been active and fun loving his whole life.
He loved doing jig saw puzzles, making milk shakes, homemade ice cream and donuts at Halloween. He has a big sweet tooth which we have all inherited.
He would never go out of the house without his wide brim hat and Chapstick.
Dad was full of wisdom and would serve others quietly without fanfare. He saw others needs and helped many. He had a work ethic beyond compare.
He loved his brother Eldon and appreciated his weekly visits. He enjoyed teasing his sisters Coreen and Donna and his monthly lunches with them. He had a close relationship
Survived by his children Richard (Lori) Homer, Robert (Rhonda) Homer, Diane (Jim) Pike, Debbie (Mike) Lord, Lisa (Dale) Cable, Ray (Julie) Homer, Randy (Angie) Homer; 39 grandchildren, 100 great grandchildren, siblings, Eldon Homer, Donna Mills, Coreen Jensen, Betty Jo (Deceased).
Preceded in death by his wife Gwen Homer, parents Edmund Homer, Inez Jocosia Whitehead Homer, and a younger sister Betty Jo Homer.
Because of Covid 19 concerns, the viewing originally scheduled for Thursday evening has been cancelled. Funeral services will be Oct. 23rd at 11:00 a.m. in a virtual setting only, with no attendees. The services will be broadcast on YouTube. Please use the following link to view the services:
https://youtu.be/o8lgreTVV5o