Wendel Mortenson

MORGAN a�" The Old Sheepherder's celebration of life ended on Sunday, July 1, 2007. Wendel Parley Mortenson was born December 23, 1928 in Upper Porterville, Utah to Parley Mortenson and Edith Jasper Mortenson. He was raised and educated in Morgan, Utah.

He married LaRue Kippen on July 18, 1946 in Morgan, Utah. They were blessed with four wonderful daughters, Jeneil, Deborah, and the twins, Cindy and Sandy. Wendel spent many years on the Mortenson Bros Ranch breaking horses, raising and docking lambs, and shearing and herding sheep. He and LaRue started Mortenson Trucking and transported thousands of livestock around the Western United States. Wendel later went to work for Jack B. Parson company as a mechanic and truck driver until his retirement.

He spent many years in retirement doing his favorite things. Those included traveling, fishing, attending chariot races and spending weekends at the swap meets. Wendel had a great eye for the "Bargain." Even though he had mobility problems, Wendel spent the last few years attending to his mother and wife. He was a familiar sight on his scooter with his faithful companion "Smokey" at Heritage Park visiting LaRue. Wendel was blessed with too many wonderful friends to mention by name, but enjoyed every moment spent with them.

Wendel is survived by his wife, LaRue; daughters, Jeneil (Thomas) Smith, Deborah (George) Silva, Cindy (Aaron) Venz, Sandy (Doug) Carlos; his sister Beverly (Bill) Dahlquist; and his brother, Billy Jay (Irene) Mortenson; eight grandchildren, 11 A½ great grandchildren, and three1/2 great, great, grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father who have greeted him with open arms.

A viewing will be held at Walker Mortuary in Morgan, Utah on Thursday, July 5, 2007 from 6 to 8 p.m. Funeral services will be held Friday, July 6, 2007 at the Porterville Church at 11 a.m. Family will greet friends from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. before the funeral.

Interment, South Morgan Cemetery.