DeVon graduated from South Cache High School in 1960. His life was a testament to his values, serving an LDS mission to Houston, Texas. He was then drafted by the United States Army, humbly serving two years at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, despite five close calls of being deployed to Vietnam. Finally returning to Utah, he was hired at Hill Air Force Base, working in Quality Assurance for 39 years (1966-2005).

In October 1967, DeVon embarked on a blind date set up by his coworker (Judi’s cousin) that would lead to a “Hallmark movie” proposal in the tiny chapel of Ogden’s Christmas Village. DeVon and Judith Ann Davies (Judi) were sealed in the Logan, Utah temple on June 14th, 1968. They resided in Layton, Utah for their 56 years of marriage and were blessed with five children.

DeVon was a man who delighted in traveling the world, enjoyed his daily banana, and loved decorating for the holidays with a twinkle in his eye. DeVon had a passion for his meticulous garden, as it was something he learned at his father’s side. He was a resilient soul, always ready with his favorite soda and whimsical light-teasing for his kids and grandkids.

DeVon’s steadfast service to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was an integral part of his life, serving as ward clerk for as long as most folks can remember. DeVon and Judi went on to serve two senior missions: one in Perth, Australia and another in Durban, South Africa.

DeVon is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Clark and Del; and sister, Donna.

DeVon is survived by his loving wife, Judi; children, J.D. (Melissa) Nielsen, Krista Nielsen, JoLyn Nielsen, Andrew (Ania) Nielsen, Brea (Derek) Wentz; eight grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Through J.D. and Melissa’s foster efforts DeVon was also “grandpa” to over one hundred foster children.

A public viewing will be held for DeVon on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. at the Woodland Park Ward, 2064 University Park Boulevard, Layton, Utah. The funeral service will follow at 10:00 a.m. at the same location. The service will also be broadcasted through Zoom. Check Myers Mortuary website for details.

DeVon’s life was a rich tapestry of service, love, and a dash of humor. We invite you to share your memories of him, and upload photos of your shared moments on the memorial page.

Let us remember DeVon, not just for his love for bananas, but for the love he had for all of us. Please join us at the service wearing “banana” yellow to celebrate his life.