Clinton DeWitt Hales

Clinton DeWitt “Pesty” Hales, age 91, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on April 20, 2025, following a 12-year battle with blood cancer. Born on March 7, 1934, in Logan, Utah, he was the son of Heber Lee Hales and Lais Vernon.

From a young age, Clint demonstrated a strong work ethic and sense of responsibility, rising early to milk the cows, working as an usher at the Capitol Theatre, caring for livestock involved in agricultural studies while at Utah State University, and taking on various jobs that helped shape his character and values.

Clint earned a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Utah State University and moved to Southern California, where he worked at Northrop. Inspired by his love of music and electronics, he co-founded 3 Stereo Hi-Fi Centers, which he ran until retiring at age 72.

He married Carol Ann Felix, and together they raised a family built on love, music, and the principles of the gospel. A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Clint lived his faith through service and kindness. Known for his infectious laugh and gift for giving memorable nicknames, he made those around him feel valued. He and Carol served a mission in Philadelphia from 2008 to 2009, preserving church records.

Music was a lifelong passion for Clint, who played multiple instruments, including the mandolin, guitar, ukulele, piano, and violin. His love for books, instilled by his mother, led to an impressive collection that reflected his belief in preserving knowledge—even if unread. He also had a knack for building and fixing electronic equipment—a hobby that filled his home with stereo systems few could operate but all admired.

Clint enjoyed snow skiing, water skiing, early morning jogging, tennis, racquetball, playing card games and savoring meals of every kind, but most especially, he cherished spending time with those he loved.

Clint is survived by his wife, Carol; daughters Kristine McDougle (Mike), Janene Zimmerman (Craig), Denise Burris (Calvin), and Bonnie Nakamoto (Scott); sons Geoff Hales (Cindy) and Kevin Hales (Teri); sister Aldyth Ann Stalder (Dee); 23 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter Carlee Hales; grandsons Camden Hales and Damien McDougle; and six siblings.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 11:00 AM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 715 Knob Hill Ave., Redondo Beach, California.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, May 9, 2025 ~ 1:00PM ,at Logan City Cemetery in Logan, Utah.