Our beloved father, devoted husband, and friend to all passed away peacefully on the evening of February 28, 2014. Complications associated with Parkinson’s disease made the last months of his life very difficult, but he never lost his sense of humor or his characteristic kindness. Byron, or “Pete” as many family members knew him, is and was a wonderful person. He was a faithful and devoted companion to our mother. He was a caring father and although we three boys gave him plenty of reasons to raise his voice to us, we cannot recall a single instance. He was a talented Civil Engineer, graduating with a degree from BYU and then working in various positions for the City of Los Angeles, Salt Lake County, and the State of Utah. His final project before retirement was directing the Legacy Highway project in the North Salt Lake area. He was a strong leader that was respected in his profession. He taught us how to work hard, have fun, fulfill our responsibilities, and to be kind and patient. Pops was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and served faithfully throughout his life in many callings. As he struggled in the last years with the effects of Parkinson’s disease, his concern and efforts were always directed toward caring for our mother. He was her protector and supporter until the end of his mortal life and we know he continues to watch over her from his heavenly home.
Byron is survived by his eternal companion and wife of 56 years, Joyce Emily, his three sons – Rod (Lori and children Odessa, Adam), Craig (Kim and children Taylor, Hayden, Cole), and Kevin (Terry and children Austin, Cameron, and Devin), sister Doris Payne (William), brothers Scott and Gregory (Jeannie). He is preceded in death by his parents Byron and Edna, brothers Edward and Trent (Edna), and sisters Mercedes Davis (Don) and Maxine Parker.
Two memorial services will be held – first in Texas on Thursday, March 6th at 3:00 p.m., McKinney 4th Ward, 1020 North Lake Forest Drive, McKinney, TX. A viewing will be held prior at 2:00 p.m. The second service will be held in Utah on Saturday, March 8th at 1:00 p.m., East Mill Creek 6th Ward, 3103 East Craig Drive, Salt Lake City, UT. A viewing will be held prior at 12:00 p.m. Interment will be at Mountain View Memorial Mortuary & Cemetery, 3115 E Bengal Blvd, Salt Lake City, UT.