Our beloved father, James Conard Aagard, 98, quietly passed away at the home of his daughter, Susie, in Taylorsville, on April 4.

Dad was born in Fountain Green, on Nov. 11, 1909, and grew up with a brother, Arvard, and a sister, Reva, who both preceded him in death. He was 10 years old when he lost his father, Andrew James Aagard, and his mother, Annie Luvina Jensen, died soon after he and Lila were married. He served in the Navy in World War II and during the Depression was a sheep rancher, an occupation he very much enjoyed. The greatest sorrow of his life was the passing of his dearly loved eternal companion of 65 years, Lila Sylvia Aagard, who preceded him in death by 17 days on March 18. They were married in the Salt Lake Temple on Aug. 10, 1943. Always active in the LDS Church, James fulfilled a mission in California as a young man and again with Lila in Missouri after retirement. He loved serving with her as an ordinance worker for 12 years in the Jordan River Temple. A son, Lance, and a granddaughter, Maren Aagard, also preceded him in death.

Dad had endured ever-increasing pain and physical handicap for many years due to the crippling disease, scoliosis, yet he never complained about it or the resultant losses he withstood as his quality of life dwindled to ultimately being confined to his bed. This was difficult as Dad loved life and his independence so much. He loved to travel everywhere but especially loved being in the desert. He loved his guns, and he loved teaching his children how to use them. It was particularly exciting for him to take us out to favorite spots for target practice and watch us learn to use them well. He was an especially gentle, patient man who had a great love for people and a tremendous gift of understanding. He always had the time and sincere interest to listen, and his counsel was always wise, always sought after. He never spoke ill of anyone, no matter what a situation was. Any reprimanding at all was given with the utmost kindness. A brilliant man, he loved learning and was always reading. "Tinkering" was a favorite pastime.

Six children survive him, Jeff (Luana) Aagard of Draper, Susie Aagard of Taylorsville, Lance's wife, Mauna Aagard of Tooele, Rita (Tom) Bybee of St. George, Robert (Carolyn) Aagard of Pine Canyon, David (Theresa) Aagard of Grantsville, and Doug (Denise) Aagard of Kaysville. He is also survived by 23 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. He loved and treasured his family above all things. How greatly he will be missed by all who knew him.

Graveside services will be held on April 7, at noon, at the Tooele City Cemetery.