Joseph Stokes

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Joseph M. Stokes (Joe) passed away quietly on September 10, 2013 in Tremonton, Utah. He was born on April 22, 1928 in Bothwell, Utah to Thomas William Stokes and Annie Laura Nichols Stokes. He was the youngest of twelve children with 6 brothers and 5 sisters.

On December 11, 1954, Joe married the love of his life, Ruth Elaine Nish of Plymouth. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Logan, Utah LDS temple.

Joe grew up in the community of Bothwell. Joe was orphaned by age 12, and relied upon his elder brothers and especially sisters to help him along in his youth. Many of his friends and neighbors in Bothwell also provided him with much love and assistance during this period of his life.

Joe served in the US Army, assigned to an infantry division during the Korean conflict. He served for two years and was in Korea for approximately 18 months.

Joe worked hard all of his life and was able to accomplish much. He was skilled as a carpenter, plumber, electrician, mechanic and welder.

He retired as a millwright from Del-Med Laboratories in Ogden, Utah.

After retiring from Del-Med, he purchased a farm in Corinne, Utah and was a successful farmer for several years.

Joe enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping and boating with his family. He also enjoyed growing a beautiful garden, working in the yard and working in his shop.

Joe was a High Priest in the Church of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints. He was a faithful Church member, fulfilling many callings, including Ward Clerk, Bishopric Counselor, Stake Missionary, and Home Teacher. He was also a patient, loving, and devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend to many.

His parents and all of his siblings except one brother and one sister preceded Joseph in death. One grandson and one granddaughter also preceded him.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth Elaine Nish Stokes, and his children; Rick (Diana) of Plain City, Utah, Val (Julie) of Tremonton, Utah, DeVerl (Suzette) of Eagle, Idaho, and Jana (Steven) Mastronardi of Corinne, Utah. Nine grandchildren and eight great grandchildren also survive him. One brother, Howard and one sister Elaine also survive him.

A viewing will be held at Rogers & Taylor Funeral Home (111 N 100 E) on September 16, 2013 from 6 PM to 8 PM. Funeral services will be held at Corinne Second Ward (2355 N 4000 W) in Corinne, Utah on September 17, 2013 at 11:00 AM, with a viewing to be held from 9:30 AM until 10:30 AM. Interment will be in the Plymouth, Utah cemetery.

The family wishes to express a heartfelt thanks to the staff of Maple Springs Senior Living Center, Bear River Valley Care Center, and Community Nursing Services for their compassion and kind care given to Joseph in his final days, and to Rudd Funeral Home for Joe’s final care. The family would encourage you to donate to the National Kidney Foundation if possible.