Feb. 27, 1927-Oct. 23, 2022
Our father, Eldon Eugene Hafen, born Feb. 27, 1927, in St. George, Utah, passed away peacefully in his home on Oct. 23, 2022. He was the 10th of 14 children born to Arthur Knight Hafen and Orilla Woods Hafen.
Dad attended schools in St. George. He spent some time in Germany where he served his country at the end of World War II and served with his brothers Herschel and Ferrel. After returning home, Dad attended and graduated from Dixie College where he was involved in Student Council.
He met and fell in love with Maxine Pymm, daughter of Walter and Bertha Pymm. They were married in the St. George Temple, Sept. 12, 1953, and have been happily married for 69 years. They were blessed with seven lucky children, 26 grandchildren and 51 great-grandchildren.
Dad owned and operated the OK Tire Store with his father, his brothers Herschel and Kelton, and his brother-in-law Phil Squire. In 1963, Dad, Herschel and Kelton purchased “The Ranch” in Barclay, Nevada, from their uncle Fred Woods. At the age of 51, Dad retired from the Tire Store and spent the next 39 years working “The Ranch” where he raised cattle and kids. “The Ranch” provided many fond memories for his family and friends.
He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many callings. He was in the Bishopric for 13 years, including six years as Bishop. He also served on the High Council and served a mission to California with his beloved wife. Dad and Mom also served as ordinance workers in the St. George Temple.
Dad is survived by his loving and supportive wife Maxine, his seven children Kristine Hatch (Lynn), Shauna Stout, Brent Hafen (Rhonda), Sheryl Bowler, Scott Hafen (Beverly), Kerry Hafen, Natalie Christensen (Tyler) and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by son-in-law Orvil Stout, grandson Skyler Hafen and grandson-in-law Jeremy Young.
Dad will be remembered for his sense of humor and quick wit.
There will be a viewing on Sunday, Oct. 30, 68:00 p.m., at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 South Bluff St., St. George.
The second viewing will take place on Monday, Oct. 31, at 9 a.m., at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, St. George East Stake Center, 449 South 300 East, St. Tabernacle, St. George, with the funeral services to follow at 10 a.m.
The interment will take place at St. George City Cemetery, 650 E St., St. George.
Arrangements are under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S Bluff St., St. George, 435-673-2454. Family and friends are invited to sign Eldon’s online guest book.