Ronald D Firth

Ronald D Firth, beloved educator and family patriarch, passed away August 27, 2016 with his wife at his side at Legacy House of Logan due to complications from pancreatitis. Though Alzheimer’s dementia had taken his abilities over the past few years, he never lost his kindness, quick smile and gentle ways.

He was born in Bothwell on July 20, 1936 to Delbert Child Firth and Dorothy Summers Firth. He loved his family. His Grandfather, Bert Firth, was a nurturing influence in his life.

Ronald knew how to work hard. He had a leadership role at the local co-op pea-viner. He took pride in having the most productive team, leading men older than himself. As a youth he began his life as a master showman winning best of show with his Herford steer and Hampshire sheep. His showmanship continued later in life as he raised and showed Clydesdale horses with his father, wife and daughter, Kimberly.

In his youth, Ronald fell in love with Marie Manning. Theirs is a true love story filled with devotion, service, sacrifice and caring. After he served in the Eastern States Mission, they were married in the Logan LDS Temple on December 19, 1958. They have four children. His family was his greatest joy. He appreciated the times they spent together and the things they did for him. He had a supportive, loving relationship with his sister, Jana. He loved the relationship he had with Marie's parents and her brothers and sisters and spouses. They brought him joy and laughter.

He attended school in Bothwell, Utah and graduated from Bear River High School. He received his bachelor’s degree from Utah State University in Agriculture Science and his Master’s Degree in Religious Education from Brigham Young University. He taught LDS Seminary in Rupert, Idaho; Heber City, Utah and Pleasant Grove, Utah. He taught Institute classes at Utah Valley State College and was director of special-needs and home bound Seminary programs. Many were influenced by his teaching abilities and testimony of Jesus Christ over his 38-year career. He loved his students.

He and Marie served a mission in Salt Lake City to the Family and Church History Mission 2001-2003. He served many church callings including Bishop of the Pleasant Grove 8th Ward. He had a strong testimony of the divinity of Jesus Christ. He exemplified his love of The Savior through service to others with selflessness and quiet dignity.

He loved camping with his family. He enjoyed traveling, but like all Firth men and his father-in-law before him, he savored his time at home. Some of his happiest moments were gardening and “puttering” in his yard and workshop. He won city awards for his beautiful yard. We will miss his homegrown tomatoes, loving smile, unwavering example and supportive ways.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Marie; his sister, Jana Roberts – Logan, Utah; his sister-in-law, Deanna Clayton Frank – Elwood, Utah; children: Shaura Ann (Dean) Meservy – Sandy, Utah; Mark (Leisa) Firth - Logan, Utah, Jason Firth – Las Vegas, NV, Kimberly (Jason) Curtis – Shrewsbury, MA; 13 grandchildren, 14 great-grand-children with one on the way and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Dale Firth; and grandson, Davis Firth.

Funeral Services will be held Saturday, Sept 3, 11 am at the Bothwell Chapel - 10350 W. 11600 N Bothwell, Utah. Friends and family may call Friday Sept 2 from 6:30-8:00 pm at the North Allen-Hall Mortuary, 420 E. 1800 N. Logan, Utah and prior to the funeral in Bothwell from 9:30-10:30 am. Interment will be at the Bothwell Cemetery.

The family would like to thank Dr. Mark Huffman, the staff at Legacy House, Pioneer Valley Lodge, Primrose Home Health and Access Home Health for their care and service. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the LDS Perpetual Education Fund.