John LaVar Francks

LaVar Francks

Lehi, Utah

John LaVar Francks, 78, passed away peacefully November 4, 2013 in Lehi, surrounded by the love of his sweetheart and family. LaVar was born July 1, 1935 to John and Effie Francks in Elsinore. He married Sue Ann Faatz on September 12, 1969 in the Manti LDS Temple. Together they raised nine beautiful children: Michael (Kathryn) Francks, Mikkie (Don) Francks, Matthew (Jo) Francks, Merilee (Todd) Jardine, Mindee (Matthew) Jenkins, Marshall (Jessica) Francks, Marcee (Chris) Gundry, Mandon (Melinda) Francks, McClain (Mallory) Francks.

LaVar was a farmer and raised turkeys for 51 years on White Acres Turkey Ranch, Sanpete County. He was a member of Moroni Feed Company where he served on the board of directors and as Chairman of the Board. He was active in the LDS Church and served in many capacities. His favorite calling was that of a missionary with his wife at the Snow College Institute for two years. After retirement from the turkey farm, he assisted his daughter Marcee in her pastry shop baking sugar cookies. He was known as a man of strong stature and spirit. He was our lighthouse, a beacon in the dark. When the wind and waves would push us down, he would shelter us from the storm. His heart was generous, his laughter infectious and his love forever endearing. Everyone who knew him loved him and he loved them, but his greatest love was for his Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.

He is also survived by his 28 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren; sisters: Arlean (Clair) Sorensen and Jannice (J.D.) Willardson.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Michael Francks; granddaughter, Barbara Ryan Harper; and brother, Valden Francks.

The family would like to thank all the health care workers who provided such loving care to our dad, including: Dr. Tom Dickinson, Dr. William Alward, Utah Valley Hospital and our angel, Cammi Garner with Rocky Mountain Hospice.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 9, 2013 at 12:00 Noon in the Spring City LDS Chapel (Rock Chapel), 150 South Main where friends may visit from 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. Burial will follow in the Ephraim Park Cemetery. Funeral Directors: Magleby Mortuary, Richfield, Salina and Manti. Online guestbook at www.maglebymortuary.com