Alton Lamont Morrill

Alton LaMont Morrill passed away peacefully in the home he loved on Saturday, December 20, 2008, at the age of 93, just five weeks before his 94th birthday. He died of causes incident to age. Alton was born on January 26, 1915 in Tridell, Utah. He was one of nine children and the last survivor of his brothers, sisters and parents, Hyrum Elmer and Mary Ann Le Baron Morrill. He was raised and educated in the Vernal area and later attended the LDS Business College in Salt Lake City.

Alton married his devoted wife, Alta Lamoreaux, on January 27, 1938 in the Salt Lake LDS Temple. They happily lived, served and worked together for 62 years building a life of commitment and dedication to each other, to their family, and to all those around them. Alta preceded Alton in death in 2000.

Together Alton and Alta served two LDS missions, one in Northern California following their marriage in 1938 and one in Louisville, Kentucky from 1980-1982. Alton willingly served in all capacities of the LDS Church, but his greatest love was working with the youth particularly with the young men in the scouting program. He had a gift for inspiring young men to stand steadfast and valiant in their service to others, in their testimonies of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and in their personal commitment to stand firm and lead out in all aspects of their lives. His dedication to the Boy Scouts of America earned him the distinguished honor of the Silver Beaver Award in 1986. Alton was a kind, gentle man who was willing to share his time and talents generously to all people. His keen sense of humor and sharp wit delighted everyone. Alton lived the gospel he loved and truly went about doing good.

Alton's work ethic was stellar. He owned and operated the Morrill Turkey Ranch for over 30 years. As a businessman, an employer, rancher, and friend, he built a successful and highly respected business dedicated to quality and excellence. Alton loved the world in which he lived and could often be found happily riding his tractor through the fields, planting a bounteous harvest to be shared with all, manicuring and tending colorful gardens that surrounded his home, and tirelessly working the land he loved. He truly found great joy and happiness in the grandeur of God's creations.

Alton is survived by his three children, RLou (Fred) Haderlie of Vista, California, Sharon (Kent) Gamette of Provo, Utah, and Gary (LaNae) Morrill of Orem, Utah; Thirteen grandchildren and thirty-seven great grandchildren. He found his greatest joy in serving his wife, family, church, and all those around him. He especially loved being with his grandchildren and great grandchildren and whether working or playing, he left a foundation of family values, integrity, and pure love that will always be a lasting legacy.

Funeral services will be held at 12 noon in the Vineyard Ward Chapel, 800 South Geneva Road on Saturday, December 27, 2008. Family and friends may call from 10:30-11:45 a.m. prior to the services. Interment will follow at the Orem City Cemetery.