Kent D. Fuller

Kent D. Fuller passed peacefully on November 30, 2013 at his home in Eden, Utah, surrounded by his family. He was born May 13, 1931, the son of Leonard and Phyllis Berlin Fuller; joining two older sisters Marvel (Wayne) Pendergraft, Shirley (Howard) Haldeman (deceased), and older brother Mack (Bette). He was a lifelong resident of Eden, a place he dearly loved. He was the great-grandson of Edmund Burke Fuller, who founded Eden, a family name and heritage he took great pride in. He was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Eden wards.

Kent was a very friendly and sociable person who would laugh and tell stories to anybody who would engage with him. He was also a leader, debater, and pursuer of justice. He attended Weber High School, and was the senior class President for the graduating class of 1949. As an avid basketball player, he was known for his undefendable hook shot. He was also Weber College Freshman class President.

Kents passion was working on the ranch. From an early age, Kent cared for animals, whether they be cattle, horses, dogs, or an orphaned baby deer that he bottle fed and raised alongside the rest of the farm animals. He had a true respect for nature and animals (except magpies). When Kent was only ten years old he won his first horse race, which led to a lifelong enthusiasm for raising good horses. He bred and raised all types ofhorses for over 50 years at his Wolf Creek Ranch. He was a master horsetrader. It was common that an unsuspecting visitor to the ranch, with no intention of ever buying, would end up leaving as the proud owner of a new horse and /or dog.

For almost 30 years, he worked at the Utah State Industrial School as a Supervisor and Ranch Manager. Kent took great pride in teaching his students about hard work, and relished the opportunity to positively influence their lives.

Kent raised his children working on the farm, teaching them strong work ethics, dependability, self-reliance, and a stubborn toughness. He was astrong advocate of the underdog, whether it was rooting for the Jazz, or taking on the County commissioners in court to overturn an unlawful land sale. After prevailing in that lawsuit, the Wolf Creek 160 acre park and trail remains for the public’s benefit and use.

Kent’s proudest accomplishment was his family. Kent was married to Belva Berrett and had four children, Debra (Jon) Bingham, Kerry, Shanna (Larry) Francis, and Jason (Christine). He married Susan Stanger in 1969 and they had four children, Cody (Tricia), Brandon, Magen (Michael) Schmidt, and Brady (Heather). Sue and Kent found joy in their partnership of 44 years, even taking a few vacations when she “kidnapped” him off the ranch. They worked hard to grow their property and family – enjoying each other, their grandchildren, and creating many memories and traditions. Each grand and great-grandchild held a special place in his heart and brightened his life.

Truly, Kent was one of the last Real Cowboys.

Special thanks to all extended family and friends, who visited and encouraged Kent these last few years. Legacy Hospice, especially Bonnie, Kim, Amanda, and Dawn – thank you.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity and enjoy the Wolf Creek Trail.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, December 3, 2013 at the Eden 2nd Ward Chapel, 2900 North Highway 162.

Interment, Eden Mountain View Cemetery.

Condolences may be sent to the family at: www.myers-mortuary.com