Kenneth Lynn Minson
1935 ~ 2022
Cottonwood Heights, Utah—Kenneth Minson, our cherished father, grandfather, brother, leader, and friend, returned to the open arms of his Heavenly Father on January 9th.
He enters his rest to join his eternal companion Dorothy, whose absence he felt and presence he ached for these past seven years. He also will share embraces with his parents, Russell and Elizabeth Minson, his brother Glen Minson, sister Carol Burton, sister-in-law Kathy Minson, and daughter-in-law Cindy Minson.
Kenneth was born in Lincoln, Idaho, on December 22nd, 1935. He was born prematurely, on a farm table, with his grandma as his mother's midwife. This penchant for being early would follow him for the rest of his life. His rallying cry of, "if we are on time, we are late" will forever be ingrained within all that knew him.
The oldest child of 6, Ken spent his formative years in Idaho before moving to Salt Lake as a teenager. Family and friends will know his fondness for his childhood, as he often recounted his days in Idaho and on the family farm in Lewisville specifically. These memories drove Ken's work ethic, which was unsurpassed. It also instilled within him a love for a good and plentiful garden. Well into his 80s, you could find him with overalls, a back brace, and an unwitting grandson working away outside in the summer heat.
Kenneth first met his wife, Dorothy, while serving as a home teacher for his church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, in 1953. Although he was a senior and her a sophomore, they fell in love, and she waited for him as he served within the Army for two years during the Korean War as an Army Medic stationed in Germany. After returning, they married on May 16th, 1957. From that union came six children, 22 grandchildren, and 20 great-grandchildren, with several more who were able to meet him on the other side. He was supremely proud of his progeny, especially when they were gathered at his house on Sunday evenings, partaking in stimulating conversation, playing card games, or just being an active audience to one of his many stories.
Ken was a natural-born leader and teacher. His professional life followed these innate talents. He worked as a biology and genetics teacher at Olympus High School and as a director of the South Salt Lake Valley Mosquito Abatement District. He also served as a past president and executive director of the Utah Mosquito Abatement Association, a board member of the Utah Association of Special Districts, and a member of numerous scientific and academic associations and societies. He also served as Bishop, Stake Presidency counselor, and choir member in his beloved Butler Stake. It is not surprising that his final acts involved making his way to church… probably early…. to see his people.
Ken is survived by his children, Scott (Cindy-deceased), Jeff (Emma), Lynnette (Ken), Leslie (Greg), Kristin (Craig), and Spencer (Heidi). He is also survived by brothers Ronald, Russell, Stanley, and Gordon, numerous extended family, and droves of friends who found Ken endearing, thoughtful, funny, intense, sarcastic, witty, and most of all, someone who you were better for having met. We will miss the stories, the laughter, the vibrant debates, the fake swear words (dad-blam sum nitch), the knowledge, and the love. Goodnight, Mr. Pillow; we love you.
