SYRACUSE, Utah - Ted LaVoir Birch, 65, passed away Monday July 16, 2012, at home in Syracuse, Utah.
Ted’s life on this earth can be defined in a few words: Family first, hard-work, and endless service to all those around him. Ted was born May 15, 1947, in Logan, Utah, to Dewitt and Joy Birch. The eldest of 5 children, he grew up with two brothers; Gary and Jeff and two sisters; Suzan and Maria.
On March 2, 1972 he married Leslie Ann Bills in the Logan Temple. They both attended Utah State University where Ted received his MA in Political Science. During 40 wonderful years together they lived in North Logan, Kaysville, Farmington, and most recently Syracuse.
Ted’s favorite times were spent with his wife and 4 children. He and Leslie enjoyed many cruises together, and when they weren’t visiting family and friends, they spent most of their evenings at home taking walks, watching movies or playing scrabble. His greatest hobby was spending time with his children, grandchildren, and nieces and nephews. He was an avid sports enthusiast and literally went to the ends of the earth to support his children in their activities. He enjoyed hunting and was an excellent marksman. He also enjoyed camping, fishing, basketball and all sports.
From childhood and throughout his life, Ted had a passion for hard work. He taught his children by example to go the extra mile in every job or task. He was an Eagle Scout at age 13. At ages 13-16 he worked for the Utah State Forestry department. He served his Country as a Captain in the US National Guard. Ted enjoyed a successful career in the publishing industry, where he held various positions in IT management and sales, most recently with Gale Cengage Learning. He was known by colleagues as talented, personable and organized, and he won several accolades for his sales accomplishments.
Ted lived a life of service and his generosity touched the hearts of many. He served an LDS mission to Mexico City. Throughout his life, he served in many church positions and his favorite callings were High Priest Instructor and Scoutmaster, helping his two sons become Eagle Scouts. If a family member or friend was ever in need Ted was always there to help. His life was an example of love and service to all.
Ted is survived by his wife; Leslie Ann Birch of Syracuse, children; Brian Birch (Rebecca) of Perry, Brandon Birch (Tanya) of Nibley, Jennifer Birch of Syracuse, Tami Fraughton (Jason) of North Salt Lake. He is also survived by 6 grandchildren; Caleb, Hayden, Caylee, Keira, Olivia, Avery (all Birch); his mother; Joy Birch (Logan) and siblings; Gary Birch of Twin Falls, Suzan Bryner of Logan, Jeff Birch of Twin Falls, and Maria Birch of Logan. He was preceded in death by his father Dewitt Birch and a grandson Zachary Birch.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, July 20, 2012 in the North Logan Green Canyon Stake Center, 1850 North 400 East in North Logan, with Bishop Glen Israelsen conducting. A viewing will be held on Thursday, July 19, 2012 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Allen Mortuary of North Logan and prior to services on Friday from 9:30 to 10:30 AM. Interment will be in the Logan City Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family at
www.allenmortuaries.net
or to
brandon@stander.com