Wade Brinkerhoff Betenson

Wade Brinkerhoff Betenson passed away peacefully at his home and was received into the arms of his grandfather Joseph Betenson on October 3, 2015.  He was born to Scott Parker and Miriam Brinkerhoff Betenson on March 4, 1936 in Junction, Utah.  He grew up in Circleville, UT, Maywood, CA and Kanab, UT.  He married JoAnna Smirl the “prettiest girl” at Kanab High School on May 21, 1955 in the St. George Temple.

He was a devoted husband, brother, father, grandfather and great grandfather.   A champion of the underdog, he never forgot his humble roots and the life lessons he learned from his grandfather Joseph Betenson.  He was grateful for his rich pioneer ancestry.  He was very generous to all.  Wade was a living example of never giving up.  An eagle scout, he worked very hard and succeeded in football, basketball, working with youth, his profession, leadership callings and as a disciple of Jesus Christ. 

He loved family barbeques on his deck, organizing family reunions, the patrons of the Bountiful Temple, his walking buddies, delivering Great Harvest bread to friends & strangers, gardening and the beauty of the earth.  He was a lifetime member of the Golden Cougar Club.  He retired after a 43 year career at UDOT advancing from road crew to Director of Research.  He was the 1992 Engineer of the Year for the Utah Society of Professional Engineers and a leader in many national engineering societies. 

Wade is cherished and survived by his wife JoAnna, sisters: (Elaine Pratt, Nancy Betenson & Jill Bunting), children: Greg (Juliann) Betenson, Brenda (Howard) Smith, Bill (Elizabeth) Betenson and Nancy Nina (Nathan) Long, 16 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

Wade was a cancer survivor.  He and his family are grateful for Dr. Weis and all of the wonderful people at the Huntsman Cancer Institute for their compassion and expertise.

Funeral services will be held October 10, 2015 at 11:00 AM with viewings Friday 6:00-8:00 PM at Russon Brother’s Mortuary (295 N. Main, Bountiful) and Saturday from 9:45-10:45 AM at the Val Verda 4th Ward Chapel (2633 South 50 West, Bountiful, Utah).