Jack E. Mathis

I died today, September 7, 2013 at the good ''ol age of 85. I had a wonderful life as I loved, laughed, traveled, and served others. I enjoyed it all! I was born April 14, 1928 in the country town of Slick, Oklahoma to E. M. Mathis and Ida Mae Cooper. We were a large family, 11 brothers and sisters. I had a great childhood with many adventures that created memories I''ve carried throughout my life.

I joined the United States Air Force in 1947 and attended woodworking school in Wyoming. I met the love of my life, Beth Merrill, in Colton, California while I was stationed at March AFB. My "Queen-for-a-Day" has been by my side for the past 61 years. We married July 7, 1952 in the local hospital in San Bernardino, California as Beth was involved in an auto accident on the way to our wedding. We later had our marriage solemnized in the Salt Lake LDS Temple on July 9, 2002.

As a carpenter, I rubbed shoulders often with officers, enlisted men, and civilians while finishing various woodworking projects. I always carried a smile and a laugh that brightened their day. I met some wonderful people and strived to build and strengthen friendships along the way. I loved working for them and was well-liked by all. I retired from serving my country after 20+ years but never really retired a€" I was too young and had much to do.

For the next 15+ years I used my carpentry and handyman skills working for the government as a civil servant at Fort Hunter Liggett in California. Like before, I spread cheer wherever I went and loved helping others. In 1983, Beth and I decided to retire once more and moved to Utah. But even then, I couldn''t relax for long. I ran a successful handyman service for several more years. I loved being around others and listened for opportunities to help them. It was amazing the new friends I made.

My last retirement came as an early morning custodian from an elementary school in the Davis School District. I loved opening the school and watching the children''s excitement as they arrived each morning. I developed some strong friendships with the staff that gave me a lot of joy and happiness.

My biggest joy has been my family. Family has always been important to me. While raising them, I created fond memories by taking them on numerous family vacations, trips to see their grandparents, and attending annual family reunions. After settling for good in Utah, I wanted to keep the family close and we''d hold monthly family dinners and other activities where I could see as many of my kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids together at once. Oh how my eyes would light up and I enjoyed their vitality for life. It kept me young!

I miss you all immensely but know it is time for me to begin my next adventure. I know that I''ve left my queen in good hands and she will be taken care of by the family. I will watch over her too and look forward to the day we can be together again. My counsel to those whom I''ve left behind would be: dry your tears now. Remember to live life fully and enjoy the journey as I have. Until we meet again...

Private memorial services will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2013. Arrangements entrusted to Lindquist''s Layton Mortuary, 1867 N. Fairfield Rd.