Vernon Smith Henningson

Vernon Smith Henningson, 84, of Manti passed away May 25, 2011 in Centerfield. Vernon was born in Manti on June 29, 1926 the last of five children to Henry and Nellie Smith Henningson. He was raised in Manti, attending school and working with his father and brothers in the saw mill and fire wood business. He had many fond memories and stories to share of his experiences in growing up in Manti.

He married Lorna Fay Christensen of Centerfield on October 18, 1944. Together they had five children; they later divorced, but remained friends.

He loved to hunt, fish and spend time in the mountains with his family and friends. Many hours and miles were traveled in the mountains with his children and friends, exploring every road imaginable.

He loved to garden in his later years, especially after his retirement. He always had a beautiful garden and shared it with family, friends and neighbors.

He was a skilled mechanic and worked most of his life as a heavy equipment mechanic for Cox Brothers Construction and Cox Enterprises. After his retirement he continued to tinker in his own shop for himself, family members and friends.

He is survived by children: Allen (Monica), Central Valley; Robert (Jannine), Ephraim; Russell (Cyndi), Manti; 16 grandchildren, and 30 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter Nellie Fay Henningson Jensen, son Ronald D Henningson, granddaughters Jeanette and Annalee, his parents and all of his siblings.

His family wishes to express sincere thanks to the staff at the Community Living Center in Centerfield as well as Gunnison Valley Home Health and Hospice for their loving care of Vernon.

Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, May 31, 2011 at 12:00 Noon in the Manti City Cemetery. Friends may call at the Magleby Mortuary from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m., 195 West 100 North, Manti. Funeral Directors: Magleby Mortuary, Richfield, Salina and Manti.