Daniel Wayne Anderson

Daniel Wayne Anderson, 64, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2015, holding the hand of his sweetheart. We miss him from the deepest depths of our hearts but rejoice in his passing to a place where he continues his work of blessing lives.

Dan was born August 23, 1950, the second son of Shirley Mae and Ervin Clark Anderson. His childhood days were spent on a farm in College Ward, Utah, where he earned his freckles and hard-working hands. He and his older brother, Jim, were the trouble-making duo of Cache Valley. Whether shooting at trucks on the highway or tying cow tails together, they made their work fun and became the best of friends in the process.

Dan served a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Central States Mission. In his final days, Dan returned to Kansas City, where his example and testimony once again blessed the people of that area.

Dan met his sweetheart, Ruth Everton, on a blind date in 1973 and spent the rest of his life making her smile. They were married in the Logan LDS Temple on August 2, 1975. Through nearly 40 years of marriage and raising their family of seven children, they worked alongside each other as loving companions. They shared countless adventures, from riding a motorcycle through Europe to watching the waves at Cannon Beach. Dan took great pride in providing for Ruth and was a thoughtful giver. He brought excitement to her days and helped her find in herself the strength he knew she always had.

After graduating from Utah State University, Dan attended Western State University College of Law, where he graduated second in his class. He practiced law for 37 years and was well known for his professional expertise and zealous representation

Dan joyed in a lifetime of church service, blessing countless lives through his inspired counsel and Christ-like example. But what he loved most was being a husband, father and papa.

Everyone who knew Dan loved him. He was a masterful storyteller and an expert at practical jokes. Dan was a big tease and knew just what to say or do to get a smile out of just about anyone. The sparkle in his eyes and the sound of his laughter were contagious.

Dan left a matchless legacy for his seven children, their spouses and his 22 (and counting) grandchildren. He taught us to believe in miracles. He showed us how to love and take care of one another. He taught us how to have fun. He showed us how to give and receive service. He presided over countless Family Home Evenings, family prayers and scripture-study sessions. He pointed us to our Savior in word and deed, and his example will continue to point us heavenward.

Dan is survived by his wife, Ruth; seven children, Jake Anderson (Bev), Ali Monson (Mark), Nick Anderson (Elisa), Dustin Anderson (Lindsay), Cami Caldwell (Clark), Chelsie Nielsen (Brian), and Tara LeCheminant (Ryan); 22 grandchildren; sisters, Cindy Stettler and Darcy Anderson, and brother, Todd Anderson; brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, and dozens of adoring nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a viewing at Russon Brothers Mortuary (1941 N. Main, Farmington) from 6 to 8 p.m., Friday, April 17, or Saturday, April 18, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., at the Farmington North Stake Center (729 W. Shepard Lane, Farmington). Funeral services will follow at 11 a.m.