William James Telford

1913-2010

Jim Telford, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, passed away on his 97th birthday. He was born December 14, 1913 in Eureka, Utah to Robert and Charlotte Lucinda Rock Telford. While he was an avid golfer and fisherman, he will be primarily remembered as “Grandpa.” He married Mary Gwendolyn (Gwen) Wagstaff on June 16, 1939 in the Salt Lake (LDS) Temple. Together they raised six children, Kent (Jo), Charlene (Kees) Tims, Jeanette (Jay) Workman, John (Valerie), Diana (Brett) Strong, Lucinda (Kim) Averett. They lived in their home on 20th East for nearly 60 years. Jim was keenly aware of the importance of education and was proud that each of his children pursued higher education. After 71 years of marriage their posterity numbers 6 children, 22 grandchildren and 45 great-grand children. In addition to all of these, he is survived by one brother, Leonard Telford. Preceding him in death are his parents, one sister, Violet, and two brothers, John (Jack) Telford and Stan Telford.

Jim’s professional life evolved around trucking and transportation. He was a truck driver for Safeway and a Safety Supervisor for W.S. Hatch Company for many years where his accomplishments were recognized by numerous awards and commendations.

After retirement, Jim and his eternal companion Gwen served a mission for the L.D.S. Church at the Hill Cumorah in New York, and then served as ordinance workers in the Salt Lake Temple for several years.

Jim and Gwen were also avid travelers. They took their children to every National Park and Monument within several hundred miles of Salt Lake, and then, after retirement, traveled to many countries around the world.

The family wishes to acknowledge and thank the wonderful caregivers at Highland Cove and The Wellington for their gentle and loving assistance during Jim’s stay there. We also wish to give special thanks to Franki and the rest of the Hospice team who so loving cajoled, guided and cared for Dad during his last months.

Funeral services will be held at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary, 3401 So. Highland Drive on Monday, December 20, 2010, at 12:00 noon. A viewing for family and friends will be held that morning from (10:00 – 11:30). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the name of the “Telford Family” to the Utah Chapter of the Muscular Dystrophy Association (4578 So Highland Dr. #300, SLC, UT 84117). Condolences may be sent to the Wellington (4522 So. 1300 East, Salt Lake City, UT. 84117) or www.wasatchlawn.com.

Arrangements under the direction of Wasatch Lawn Mortuary, Salt Lake City, UT.