Stephen L Ames Obituary (1939 - 2015)

Stephen L. Ames passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Tuesday, October 27, 2015 after a long battle with Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS). Stephen was born March 30, 1939 in Manti, Utah to Ralph Kent Ames and Mary Erma Merriam. He graduated from Moroni High School in 1957, Snow College in 1959 and BYU in 1963 with a Bachelor's degree in accounting. On September 3, 1966 Stephen married his sweetheart Joan Mavis Cahoon in the Manti Temple. Stephen then continued his education by earning his CPA License. Stephen loved working with numbers, to the point that he would read his granddaughter's calculus book as if it were a novel. Stephen was a great example to those around him, his children being his greatest admirers. He had a wonderful work ethic and was willing to drop everything to help someone in need. From 1980 to 1992, Stephen spent his days serving on the South Jordan City Council. He was also a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Saints, serving in numerous ward and stake callings. In spite of his physical challenges later in life, he continued faithfully writing the High Priest group newsletter. Stephen's pastimes include sharing his spirit through voice, song and work. He enjoyed telling stories of his experiences growing up in Moroni. He was a gifted singer with a rich bass voice; he spent many hours singing in choirs as well as with his daughters. He had a strong love for genealogy spending every Friday at the library doing research. When he was physically unable to attend the library he wrote the life histories for his parents, grandparents and brother. Stephen and Joan are the parents of seven children: Stephen II (Kristy) Ames, Cindy (Brad) Schmidt, Darin (Michelle) Ames, Randall (Cherlynn) Ames, Kimberly (Brian) Fagergren, Richard (Amanda) Ames and Sandra (Levi) Smith, all who survive him. He was also survived by 18 grandchildren as well as sisters-in-law Velma and Connie. He is preceded in death by his parents and two brothers: Ronald and Terry. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2015 at 11:00AM at the Midas Creek 5th Ward, 10860 South 3200 West, South Jordan, UT. A viewing will be held Monday, November 2, 2015 from 6-8 PM at Jenkins-Soffe South Valley, 1007 W. South Jordan Parkway(10600 So), South Jordan, UT. A second viewing will take place Tuesday, from 10-10:45 AM at the church prior to the funeral services. Following the services there will be a gathering at the Moroni City Cemetery at 3 PM for the Interment and Dedication. Anyone who wishes to express sentiments is welcome to do so at that time. The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to Summit Home Health & Hospice and staff. This includes Becky, Annette, Wes, Kimberly, Brittany, Stephanie, Amalia, Levy, Marianella, Mike, and Hector as well as Dr. David Zackrison. Their compassionate and loving service provided comfort to Stephen and his family during his time of need. Online condolences may be shared at www.jenkins-soffe.com. Funeral Home: Jenkins-Soffe South Valley 1007 W. South Jordan Parkway South Jordan, UT 84095