Afton Dale Burtenshaw Tew

Afton Burtenshaw Tew
April 5, 1929 – December 27, 2015
Afton Burtenshaw Tew passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 27, 2015 after 86 years of vibrant life. Afton lived a remarkable life, filled with constant service and love for all mankind. Afton was born on April 5, 1929, the fourth of six children, in a log cabin in Shelton, Idaho to John and Dale Burtenshaw. She spent her childhood working hard on her family’s dairy farm. Afton excelled at Ucon High School where she played saxophone, served as Student Body President and Valedictorian. She then attended Ricks College in Rexburg, Idaho where she met Orson Tew. Afton became an accomplished pianist, and often accompanied Orson as he performed beautiful vocal solos.
Afton married her sweetheart and eternal companion, Orson Tew, in the Idaho Falls Temple on January 12, 1951. During the early years of their marriage, they lived in Idaho, Utah and California while Orson completed bachelor, masters and doctorate degrees. In 1962, they moved to what became their cherished home in North Logan. Afton is the mother of five children: Roger (Paula), Risa (Bruce) Jorgensen, Rochelle (Doug) Reid, Ryan (Pam) and Robert.
Afton and her family lived in Bolivia from 1966-1969 where Orson was on assignment from USU to work with the Bolivian government. The LDS Church was in its infancy in Bolivia and among Afton’s callings was the development of the Church’s youth programs throughout the country. This often required that Afton translate church materials from English to Spanish. Afton loved to travel and to see the world with her family. Together they visited dozens of countries, which instilled in her children a love of all people.
Afton became a young single mother when Orson passed away in 1974. She worked hard to support sons on missions and to provide for her growing family. Afton began as a volunteer with the International Student wives at Utah State University and later was appointed USU Director of the International Student Office, a position she held until 2000. During her years of employment, Afton counseled, assisted and loved thousands of students from all over the world. The International Lounge at USU is named in honor of both Orson and Afton. Orson had been the original Director of the USU International Student Office. Afton received recognition from around the world for her work with the International Students and was often asked to speak at national and international conventions as the honored guest.
Afton was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Her callings included serving as a temple worker, choir director, organist, Ward and Stake Young Women President and teacher. Afton possessed the gift of inspiring others by her example of service, kindness for all and her unwavering testimony. Afton’s greatest joys came from her family, the gospel, beautiful music, learning, enjoying the beauties of nature and helping others.
Afton is survived by her five children and their spouses, 26 wonderful grandchildren, 26 precious great-grandchildren and her brother Robert Burtenshaw. She was preceded in death by her beloved Orson, granddaughter Marissa Tew, her parents, one brother and four sisters.
There will be a viewing from 6-8 pm on Friday, January 1 at the Allen Mortuary of North Logan, 420 East 1800 North and from 10:30-11:30 am on Saturday, January 2, at the North Logan 10th Ward Chapel at 1550 East 1900 North. Afton’s funeral will be held at noon on Saturday, January 2, at the North Logan 10th Ward Chapel. Burial will be held at Fielding Memorial Cemetery in Idaho Falls, Idaho on Monday, January 4, at noon.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family online at www.allenmortuaries.net