Wilford Hatch Geddes

Wilford Hatch Geddes passed away on June 3, 2015 after suffering a debilitating stroke. He passed away peacefully in the presence of family.

Wilford was the second child and first son born to David Roy and Thora Geddes, in Banida, Franklin CO, Idaho on September 27, 1931. Wilford learned at an early age about hard work and frugal living as he worked alongside his father farming a 175 acre dry farm.  Even to the end of his life Wilford found joy and purpose in work and always encouraged his posterity to work hard and to be “doers.” Wilford loved playing sports, especially basketball and baseball and while attending North Cache High School he excelled at these sports.

 He was called to serve a mission to the Northern States mission.  His love of the gospel of Jesus Christ was surpassed only by his love for his family.  He later served a mission with his wife Varlene to the New York, New York South Mission. He served in many capacities in the church, including bishop. However, he was most proud of his 25 years of service as Scoutmaster and the many young men he helped to obtain their Eagle Scout award.  He and his wife were devoted members of the LDS church.

 Wilford graduated from BYU and then married Marion Varlene Cook in the Logan Utah Temple on December 27, 1957. Varlene was his faithful and committed companion. With Varlene at his side, Wilford graduated from the School of Dentistry at Marquette University. Following graduation Wilford enlisted in the Air Force and was a commissioned First Lieutenant.  In 1961, Wilford opened his dental practice in Ogden, Utah where he practiced “painless” dentistry for 45 years.  Only the desire to serve an LDS mission with his wife could motivate him to retire.

 Wilford enjoyed gardening, playing sports and watching his children play sports, dancing, camping, and serving in the Temple.  He will be remembered as a hard worker, selfless in service, compassionate, his sense of humor, unnatural endurance, for his stories that got bigger with each telling and his devotion to God and family.

 Wilford is survived by 12 children; Marian (Brad) Salmon, Derald, Da’nell (John) Cannon, Diane (John) Berlin, Debbie (James) Walker, Ryan (Jonnette), Karen (Mark) Garnett, Janette (Todd) Neville, Mark (Shelly), Neal (Kathryn), Rachel (Andy) Fuhriman, Matthew (Sharlyn), 62 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his wife Varlene and his brother Ray.

 Funeral services will be held at 11 am Monday June 8, 2015 at the Waterfall Canyon LDS Chapel, 3254 Polk Avenue, Ogden, Utah 84403, where friends and family may gather in honor of Dad on Sunday June 7, 2015 from 6pm to 8pm, and Monday morning from 9:45am to 10:45am. Interment at the Willard Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers please make contributions to the LDS Missionary Fund.