Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Sheldon Ralph Franson

Apr. 11, 1945 ~ Feb. 12, 2012
Sheldon Ralph Franson, son of Ralph M. and Inez Bisel Franson died unexpectedly from liver failure on February 12, 2012. He was surrounded by his loving earthly family and was received into the arms of many family members who preceded him in death. Sheldon was born April 11, 1945 in Oakley, Utah. He grew up in Oakley and graduated from South Summit High school. He played every sport they offered and loved his small graduating class which included many of his cousins whom he loved. After graduation he served a two year mission to the North Central States for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. When he returned home his sister suggested he take her high school Home Economics teacher on a date. Two dates later he proposed to Barbara Ann Watson and they were married in the Salt Lake Temple on June 9, 1967. Together they have seven children. After graduation from Utah State University Sheldon worked for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on many welfare farm projects. He retired in 2007 having served for 33 years. Sheldon could never contain his passion for the gospel, and was found many Sundays pounding the pulpit to declare his testimony. He was a temple worker at the Mount Timpanogos Temple for the past four years. He was a real life cowboy. He loved his horses and cows, he was proud to have started his own ranch. A perfect day for him was to have his sons and especially grandchildren come and work along side him on the farm. He also treasured any opportunity to support his grandchildren or children in their dreams. Sheldon was preceded in death by his parents, his youngest child, Scott William, and his beloved wife. He is survived by his children Jim (Lara) Lehi, Travis (Janet) Payson, Ryan (DeAnna) West Haven, Jennie (Andy) Christensen Ephraim, Lisa (Shawn) Mortensen Orem, and Susan (David) Jacobs American Fork, 21 grandchildren, two sisters and one brother as well as many in-laws. Funeral services Sat Feb. 18, 2012 10 a.m. by Sunset Heights Vineyard 2nd Ward in the Vineyard LDS chapel, 800 S Geneva Rd, Orem. Friends may call Fri. 6-8 p.m. Walker Sanderson Funeral home 646 East 800 North Orem and Sat at the church 9-9:45 prior to services. Burial Woodland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the LDS missionary fund. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.walkersanderson.com.