Obituary - August Elmer Bakka

August Bakka Obituary

Funeral services for August "Gus" E. Bakka, 96, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, January 22, 2026 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 430 Elizabeth Drive. A viewing will be held one hour prior to services at the church. Military graveside honors will follow at Mountain View Cemetery.

Mr. Bakka passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 18, 2026 at SageWest Hospital in Riverton, Wyoming. Gus was born in Kemmerer, Wyoming on April 11, 1929 to August Alexander Bakka and Mary Samantha (Madson) Bakka. The family relocated to Rock Springs, Wyoming where Gus attended school and graduated with the Rock Springs High School class of 1947. He married Ethel Mae Firmage, the love of his life, on January 4, 1948 and together they had four daughters, Sandra Kay Appelhans, Cindy Lou Frady, Sherri Lynn Vogele, and Kathy Sue Pease. Their marriage was solemnized on September 29, 1967 in the Salt Lake Temple.

Gus and Ethel Mae began their life together in Colorado Springs, Colorado where Gus served as a paratrooper in the United States Army. When World War II was over, they returned to Rock Springs, Wyoming where Gus worked for FMC Corporation and at the same time drove a bus to the FMC plant for Zanetti Bus Lines.

In the Spring of 1958, the family moved to Riverton, Wyoming where Gus drove a bus to the Gas Hills mines. In 1964, Gus and Ethel Mae, bought their floor-covering business, where Ethel Mae ran the business and Gus did the work. They continued to raise their family and spent the rest of their lives in Riverton. They had a deep love for the people of Riverton, including many longtime neighbors and friends. Gus served on the Riverton City Council for a number of years. He also served on the Board of Directors for the Riverton Senior center. Later Gus worked for Bailey Tire and Auto Service until he was over 80 years old.

Gus and Ethel Mae were active members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Gus held numerous church callings, including serving in bishoprics and on the Stake High Council. In later years, Gus served at the Wyoming Honor Farm, a calling he dearly loved.

Gus enjoyed spending time in the outdoors. He and Ethel Mae could be found riding motorcycles, fishing from their boat, snowmobiling, and riding 4-wheelers. He especially loved backpacking in the Wind River Mountains, although there may be some questions regarding his stories of the size of the fish he caught.

Gus is survived by his daughter, Kathy Pease of Oklahoma; grandchildren, Wade Appelhans, Joe Appelhans, Norman Frady, Denny Frady, Melissa Frady, Wayne Vogele, and Shannon Rae Hughes-Dunkeson; numerous great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Howard Van Valkenburg of Rock Springs, and several nieces.

Gus is proceeded in death by his wife, Ethel Mae Bakka; father August Alexander Bakka; mother, Mary Madson Bakka; brother, Walter Elias Bakka; daughters, Sandra Kay Appelhans, Cindy Lou Frady, Sherri Lynn Vogele; grandson, Dale Vogele.

On-line condolences for Gus' family may be made at TheDavisFuneralHome.com. Services under the direction of Davis Funeral Home, Crematory, and Monuments of Riverton, Wyoming.

--Published by Legacy on Jan. 20, 2026

Learn more about August on the Firmage Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/firmagefamilyhistory/families/bakka/august-elmer-bakka.

Obituary - Albert Rees

22 August 1943 - Albert Rees

Albert Rees died due to a mine accident at Lion Coal Company. He was crushed between the mine wall and a coal car. Death record states: Dislocated right knee. Bruised left leg. Compression of chest and abdomen due to edema of lungs. Place of death: County of Sweetwater, City of Rock Springs; Wyoming General Hospital. Age: 65 years, 2 months, 2 days.

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Albert Rees, 65, of 1104 Elk Street, died at 10:45 o'clock Sunday evening at Wyoming General Hospital from injuries when he was struck by a loaded trip at Lion Coal Company's Star No. 1 mine at Blairtown. The accident, which resulted in the death of Mr. Rees occurred about 2 o'clock Saturday afternoon and he was taken to the hospital in an ambulance.

Rees had been a resident of this community for about 32 years and had worked for many years for the Lion Coal corporation. He had been ill for several years and had returned to work a little over a year ago. A native of England, Rees was born at Staffordshire, June 20, 1878. Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Rees, two daughters, Mrs. Florence Van Valkenburg and Mrs. Agnes Burdess of Rock Springs; a son J. W. Rees, who preceded him in death on Nov. 25, 1942; three sisters, Mrs. D. M. Ault of Roswell, N. M., Mrs. Agnes Brown of Salt Lake City, and Mrs. Ada Abernathy of Lafayette, Colo.; 14 grandchildren, and three great grandchildren. Funeral arrangements in charge of Rogan mortuary will be announced later.

--Rock Springs Daily Rocket, August 24, 1943

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Funeral services will be held at 2 p. m. today at the Episcopal church, for Albert Rees, 65, who died at 10:45 o'clock Sunday evening after he had received injuries in a mine accident. He was struck by a loaded trip at Lion Coal Company's Star No. 1 mine at Blairtown about 2 o'clock Saturday afternoon.

Rites will be conducted by the Rev. H. A. Link, and burial will be at Mountain View cemetery.

He had been employed by the Lion Coal company for a number of years and had lived in this community for 32 years.

--Rock Springs Daily Rocket, August 25, 1943

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A coroner's jury which investigated the death of Albert Rees, who was fatally injured Sunday when he was struck by a loaded trip at the Lion Coal company's Star No. 1 mine at Blairtown, returned the following verdict last night: "We find that Albert Rees came to an accidental death, but we do find that the company failed to give the required clearance between the cars and dropping drums as required by law."

The inquest was conducted by J. Warden Opie, county coroner. Members of the jury were Huston Martin, John Bynon and George Rogers.

--Rock Springs Daily Rocket, August 25, 1943

Learn more about Albert on the Van Valkenburg Family History website:
https://sites.google.com/site/vanvalkenburgfamilyhistory/families/rees/albert-rees.

Obituary - Jeannette Williams Simkin

Jeannette Simkin

Memorial services for Rock Springs resident Jeannette Simkin, 92, will be conducted at 10 a.m. Monday, April 21, in Vase Funeral Chapel in Rock Springs. Cremation will have taken place. Graveside services will be in the Mountain View Section of Rock Springs Municipal Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour prior to services.

The family will receive friends and relatives at the home of her granddaughter and grandson-in-law, Bernie and Matt Keslar, 1329 Yalecrest Drive, Rock Springs.

She died April 16, 2003, at Sage View Care Center in Rock Springs, where she had resided for the last three years.

Born Feb. 18, 1911, in Big Sandy, she was the daughter of Henry W. and Maude C. (Huff) Williams; and attended schools in Big Sandy and Rock Springs.

On Oct. 6, 1928, she married William Edmond Simkin in Rock Springs. He preceded her in death on Oct. 22, 1977, after 49 years of marriage.

She had lived with the Keslars from 1996 until moving to Sage View.

Her interests included hunting, fishing, being outdoors with her grandchildren, tatting and embroidering.

Survivors include two daughters and their husbands, Enid J. Van Valkenburg of Rock Springs and Marilyn Juhl of Denver; three grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; infant son, William Clyde Simkin; four sisters, Dorothy Thompson, Ellen Richie, Mabel Philbrick and Alma Golliher; and four brothers, Henry Williams, Jared Williams, Bill Williams and Paul Williams.

The family would appreciate memorials to a charity of the donor's choice.

--Casper Star Tribune, April 19, 2003

Learn more about Jeannette on the Van Valkenburg Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/vanvalkenburgfamilyhistory/families/williams/jeannette-williams.

Obituary - James William Burdess

James William Burdess

Feb 17, 1933 – Nov 2, 2014

"Together Again"

James William Burdess, “Bill,” has passed away at the age of 81 after a full and happy life. He was surrounded by beloved family and dear friends when he left this life to join his late wife on their next journey together.

Born Feb. 17, 1933, in Rock Springs, WY, to Agnes and William Burdess, Bill began life surrounded by cousins, friends, and strong family ties. At the age of twelve, Bill’s family moved to Ogden where they soon put down roots building a solid foundation for generations to come.

He attended Ogden schools where he met the love of his life, Hazel Marie Davis. They married in 1951 and had six children, Jaylene (Steve), Abbie, Eber (Raelene), Noey, Will, and Darrin, along with 15 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren with one more on the way and who knows how many more.

He was a strong and industrious man providing for his family as a machinist and tool maker for Hill Field, Marquardt, and Flame Co, retiring from Western Zirconium in 1998.

With an incredible love for family, he remained close to his siblings and their children, along with extended family, throughout his life. Many vacations took Bill and Hazel across the western United States to visit family and friends. Some of their greatest adventures were in the wilderness areas of Utah and Wyoming enjoying family-reunion style camping trips.

Bill was an accomplished baseball player in his youth, and as an adult his pastimes included golfing at the White Barn, bowling with Hazel on leagues at Rainbow Lanes, and dancing with Hazel and their friends at the Hermitage and then later at the Oaks and the Eagles. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and took pride in teaching his children and grandchildren the sports. With an inventive spirit, he tinkered in the yard and the garage. He built homemade kites for his grandchildren to fly, cut ATV tracks on his land so the kids could ride, converted a bicycle into a snow sled just for the fun of it, and hosted bonfire parties where the kids and grownups sang and played music together. What he had, he shared, with those he loved.

Bill missed Hazel greatly after her death earlier this year. In their 62 years of marriage, they had never missed an anniversary together. Their 63rd wedding anniversary is later this month, and now that they are reunited again their tradition of never missing an anniversary together still stands.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents and a sister, La Donna (Joe Ophiekens), as well as a son-in-law, Henry Endow and a great granddaughter, Tylee. He is survived by two brothers, Blair (Colleen) and Wayne. Bill is loved and will be missed by many.

Family and friends are encouraged to attend a viewing Thursday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. and Friday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Lindquist’s Ogden Mortuary, 3408 Washington Blvd. Funeral services will be held Friday morning at 11 a.m. at the mortuary. Interment, Lindquist’s Washington Heights Memorial Park, 4500 Washington Blvd.

Learn more about James on the Van Valkenburg Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/vanvalkenburgfamilyhistory/families/burdess/james-william-burdess.

Obituary - Robina Golden Cooper Snyder

ROBINA SNYDER

Funeral services for Robina Golden Snyder, 93, of 40 Blair Ave., Rock Springs, were held Wednesday, Nov. 29, at the First Congregational Church with Peter St. Martin officiating.

Pallbearers were Harry Angelovic, Albert Angelovic, Nels Carlson, Carl Hafner, Gerald Gras and William R. Dickson.

Interment was in the Mountain View Section of Rock Springs Municipal Cemetery.

Mrs. Snyder died Monday, Nov. 27, at the Kimberly Manor Nursing Home following a lengthy illness.

She was born on June 18, 1885 in Rock Springs the daughter of the late Adam and Christena Barrowman Cooper. She married Walter Snyder who preceded her in death.

Mrs. Snyder was a member of the First Congregational Church and the Order of the Eastern Star at Cheyenne, Wyoming.

Survivors include several nieces and nephews, including Mrs. John B. (Mary) Dickson and Ida Kappes, both of Rock Springs; Mrs. William (Margaret) Gnemi of Jerome, Idaho; Josephine Binnig of Pinedale; Isaac Brooks and Mrs. Albert (Katherine) Angelovic, both of Rock Springs; Mrs. George J. (Velma) Jones of Salt Lake City, Utah and Mrs. Norman Darrel Mork of Sonoma, Calif. Several great-nieces and nephews and several great-great-nieces and nephews also survive. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.

--Rock Springs Daily Rocket-Miner, December 2, 1978

Learn more about Robina on the Firmage Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/firmagefamilyhistory/families/cooper/robina-golden-cooper.

Obituary - David Patterson Firmage

Spanish Fork Business, Church Leader, 78, Dies

SPANISH FORK-David P. Firmage, 78, of Spanish Fork, well known Utah department store operator, died Tuesday morning in a Spanish Fork hospital after a brief illness.

Mr. Firmage, with his brothers, was a partner with J.C. Penney in the establishment of the first J. C. Penney stores in Utah, managing Penney stores in Nephi and in Spanish Fork.

Mr. Firmage was born April 21, 1883, in American Fork, a son of William and Catherine Adamson Firmage. He married Florence Jones, Nov. 10, 1909, in the Salt Lake Temple, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

In 1915 he moved to Heber where he was assistant manager of the first J. C. Penney store there, and in 1917 he opened the first Penney store in Nephi, where he was manager.

From 1927 to 1939 he was manager of the Penney store in Spanish Fork. He was a director of the Bank of Spanish Fork for 26 years.

Active in civic work, he served 13 years on the Spanish Fork Board of Adjustments, 11 years as chairman, and served on the city Zoning and Planning Board as president and chairman.

Mr. Firmage was an active member of the LDS Church, serving as budget chairman of the Spanish Fork Second LDS Ward and as finance chairman for the new Spanish Fork LDS Stake House.

He was a charter member of Spanish Fork Rotary and was a member of the city's Kiwanis Club.

Mr. Firmage is survived by his widow; two sons and three daughters, Kenneth, Chatham, N.J.; Allen, Provo; Mrs. Lee (Doris) Chambers, San Carlos, Calif.; Mrs. W. R. (Florence) Liechty, Logan; Mrs. Paul (Barbara) Stewart, Downey, Calif.; 18 grandchildren; two brothers and a sister, Edwin, Provo; Andrew, Salt Lake City, and Mrs. Mack (Agnes) McIntyre, Sacramento, Calif.

Funeral services will be conducted Friday at 1 p.m. in the Spanish Fork LDS Stake House. Friends may call at the Walker Mortuary Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m. and Friday prior to services. Burial will be in the Spanish Fork City Cemetery.

Learn more about David on the Firmage Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/firmagefamilyhistory/families/firmage/david-patterson-firmage.

Obituary - William Kenneth Firmage

William Kenneth Firmage, age 91, passed away on Saturday, February 16, 2002 in Sun City, Florida.

Kenneth was born October 17, 1910 in American Fork, Utah to David P. Firmage and Florence Jones Firmage. He grew up in Nephi and Spanish Fork, Utah. He graduated from Spanish Fork High School in 1928. After a year at the University of Utah he served a 30-month mission for the LDS Church in Germany. After returning home he attended Brigham Young University and received a B.S. degree in business in 1935. He then enrolled in the MBA program at Harvard University. He received a MBA (MS) degree in 1937. He was employed in the eastern states with several firms.

He married Phyllis Fletcher in the Salt Lake Temple in 1936. They first made their home in New York City. During World War II he was employed in Washington D.C. as a coordinator of petroleum shipments to the Allied Forces in Europe. At the end of World War II he served three months in Germany as a member of the Strategic Bombing Survey. In this capacity he used his ability in the German Language. He then started an insurance agency in Chatham, NJ and remained there until retirement. While in Chatham he and Phyllis had two sons and one daughter. Phyllis died of a heart attack in 1966.

In 1968 Kenneth married SuZann Swain. They then made their home in Alford, Mass., in the summer and Sun City, Florida in the winter. Kenneth was active in the LDS Church serving in several callings including High Counselor in the New Jersey Stake. Kenneth and wives, Phyllis and SuZann traveled extensively in Europe and Asia.

He is survived by his wife SuZann; daughter Karen Skousen (Loran) of Arlington, Texas; son David (Zan) of Fairfield, Maine; son Charles (Mavis) of Boise, Idaho; one brother Allan (Provo) and sisters Doris Chambers and Barbara Stewart of Modesto, CA; and several grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his sister Florence Liechty.

A brief service for family and friends will be held in the chapel of Walker Mortuary, 187 South Main, Spanish Fork at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 2, 2002. Burial will be in the Spanish Fork City Cemetery.

--Deseret News, February 28, 2002

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FIRMAGE, William Kenneth, 91 of Sun City Center, passed away Feb. 16, 2002.

A native of American Fork, Utah, Mr. Firmage moved to the area from Chatham, N.J.

He was a retired life insurance agent and Realtor. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and had served as a Lt. Colonel in the Army Reserve during World War II. He was the author of several books, including "Season of Fire, Season of Faith" and "Flight From Destiny".

He is survived by his wife, SuZan of Sun City Center; two sons, David of Fairfield, Maine, and Charles of Boise, Idaho; two stepsons, Tom Swain of Venezuela and Ralph Swain of Virginia; a daughter, Karen Firmage Skousen of Arlington, Texas; a brother, Allan of Provo, Utah; two sisters, Doris Chambers and Barbara Stewart, both of Modesto, Calif.; 18 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday at 11 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 5207 12th St. NE, Apollo Beach. Burial will be in Spanish Fork, Utah.

Learn more about William on the Firmage Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/firmagefamilyhistory/families/firmage/william-kenneth-firmage.

Obituary - John Main McBride

Former Resident Dies

John McBride, formerly a resident of this city, died in Salt Lake on Tuesday, and the funeral services were conducted Thursday.

Deceased was one of the pioneers of Rock Springs, he having come in an ox team across the plains before the Union Pacific Railroad was built. He left about eleven years ago to make his home in Salt Lake. His many friends regret to learn of his demise. Mrs. Pat Mahon of Superior, Mr. and Mrs. John Firmage and Mrs. John White went to Salt Lake to attend the funeral.

--Rock Springs Rocket no. 12, February 05, 1915

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DEATH OF A FORMER WELL KNOWN RESIDENT

The death of John M. McBride, a former well known and highly respected citizen of Rock Springs, occurred on Tuesday in a Salt Lake hospital, following an operation for intestinal trouble. He was taken to the hospital last Saturday, the operation was performed on Sunday and he passed away on Tuesday, at 3 a.m.

The deceased was born in Scotland, June 5th, 1846, and came to America when a young man. He was one of the pioneer settlers of this section, making the trip west with an ox team before the building of the railroad. Later he was employed on the construction work of the Union Pacific road. After its completion, he was foreman of old No. 2 mine, now known as the Park Coal Co. mine.

He left here about eleven years ago and has since made his home in Salt Lake City. He leaves a widow and two children, Mrs. Pat Mahon and John McBride, beside an immense circle of friends to mourn his death. The funeral was held in Salt Lake City on Friday afternoon.

--Rock Springs Miner no. 6, February 06, 1915

Learn more about John on the Firmage Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/firmagefamilyhistory/families/mcbride/john-main-mcbride.

Obituary - Elizabeth Firmage McBride

Mrs. Elizabeth MacBride, 79, 160 North Ninth West street, died Sunday evening at a local hospital from infirmities incident to her age.

She was born August 30, 1852, in Fifeshire, Scotland, and had been a resident of Salt Lake for 30 years.

She was a widow of John MacBride, who died in 1915.

With her at the time of death was her niece, Mrs. R.C. Barrass, who had cared for her during the past seven years.

Mrs. MacBride is survived by three brothers, William Firmage of American Fork, John Firmage of Salt Lake and James Firmage of Minnesota.

--Salt Lake Tribune, May 2, 1932

Learn more about Elizabeth on the Firmage Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/firmagefamilyhistory/families/firmage/elizabeth-firmage-1852.

Obituary - Helen Margaret Firmage

DEATH OF LITTLE HELEN MARGARET FIRMAGE

The death of Helen Margaret, the little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Firmage, occurred last Saturday afternoon, after a brave fight against a complication of diseases.

Little Helen Margaret was born on April 22nd, and had been an unusually healthy, happy baby, the joy and pride of the household. About two weeks ago she was taken ill and in spite of all that could be done to relieve her, passed away last Saturday.

The funeral services were held at the home on Tuesday afternoon at 1:30 o’clock, conducted by Rev. S. A. Webber. Interment was made in Mountain View cemetery, many beautiful flowers covering her last resting place. The bereaved parents have the sympathy of the community in their sorrow.

--Rock Springs Miner; December 23, 1916

Learn more about Helen on the Firmage Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/firmagefamilyhistory/families/firmage/helen-margaret-firmage.

Obituary - Elizabeth Firmage White Barrass

Mrs. Barrass Funeral Rites Set for Today

Funeral services for Mrs. Richard C. Barrass will be held at 2:30 this afternoon at the L.D.S. church. Bishop William Gibbs of the second ward will conduct the rites and burial will be in Mountain View cemetery.

Members of the Pythian Sisters lodge will conduct short services at the Villanova funeral home at 2 p.m.

Mrs. Barrass, a lifelong resident of Rock Springs, died Wednesday at Sweetwater Memorial hospital.

--Rock Springs Daily Rocket, February 25, 1956

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MRS. RICHARD C. BARRASS

Funeral services for Mrs. Richard C. Barrass, 64, of 810 Center street were held Saturday afternoon at the L.D.S. church. Bishop William Gibbs of the Second ward conducted the rites and burial was in Mountain View cemetery.

Pallbearers were selected from the Knights of Pythias lodge and were Aaron Deneley, Joe Dominske, R.L. Francis, John Retford, Joseph Seppie and Pete Shinazy.

Mrs. Barrass, a life long resident of Rock Springs, died early Wednesday morning in Sweetwater Memorial hospital following a three-week illness.

She was born Elizabeth Firmage Feb. 6, 1892 in Rock Springs, a daughter of John and Janet Firmage, early day residents of the city. She was married to Richard C. Barrass here Jan. 21, 1921.

Survivors are her husband, one daughter and two sons, Mrs. Robert E. Woods and Richard Barrass, both of Pocatello, Idaho, and George White of Rock Springs; seven grandchildren and two sisters and one brother, John Firmage of Rock Springs, Mrs. Janet Hoye of Layton, Utah, and Mrs. Mary Ellen Buchanan of San Francisco.

Mrs. Barrass was a member of the Pythian Sisters lodge and members of the organization conducted funeral rites at the Villanova funeral home Saturday before the services at the church.

--Rock Springs Miner, February 26, 1956

Learn more about Elizabeth on the Firmage Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/firmagefamilyhistory/families/firmage/elizabeth-firmage-1892.

Obituary - Scott H. Johnson

Scott H. Johnson

March 8, 1963 - February 2, 2015

Following a lengthy illness, Scott H. Johnson died at his home in Lander, Wyoming in February. Scott was the third child born in Rock Springs, Wyoming to Jane Van Valkenburg and Larry A. Johnson (deceased).

Scott moved to Ogden, Utah with his mother when he was three years old. He attended schools in Washington Terrace and Weber County and graduated from Weber High School in 1981. Scott furthered his education by graduating with degrees from Weber State University and the University of Wyoming and extended his education in graduate studies at the University of New Mexico.

While attending his school, Scott worked for his stepfather, Joy A. Ward, doing custom farm work. He later worked as an archaeologist in New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, Idaho and Wyoming doing field worked. He loved this work because he enjoyed walking through country where not many have tread, finding Native American artifacts and speculating and determining how they lived. He also relished living in Lander because it is located at the foot of the Wind River Range of the Rocky Mountains and provided many outdoor recreational activities.

Scott was a very sincere and principled person, expressing himself in a rather direct manner. However, if you were his friend, you could always count on him. He had a subtle sense of humor and told everyone that his mother and sister were placed on this earth for his amusement.

Scott is survived by his mother, Jane Van Valkenburg of Lander, Wyoming; a brother Stuwert Johnson, Ogden, Utah and a sister, Laurie Winters (Greg) of Cheyenne, Wyoming, and uncle, Howard Van Valkenburg of Rock Springs, Wyoming, and aunt Mary Koritnik (Joseph) of Cheyenne, Wyoming and numerous cousins. He is preceded in death by his father, maternal grandmother and several uncles and aunts, including his favorites, Aunt Eva and Uncle Bill.

Cremation has taken place ad family services will be conducted later this year when his ashes will be scattered over one of his favorite places in the Red Desert.

Learn more about Scott on the Van Valkenburg Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/vanvalkenburgfamilyhistory/families/johnson/scott-johnson.

Obituary - Margaret Farmer Firmage Williamson

Mrs. Margaret Williamson nee Mrs. William Firmage, quietly slept away at the home of her son, Mr. John Firmage, on Fourth street, on last Friday morning, aged 72 years.

The funeral took place on July 1st from the Mormon church where appropriate services were held, Mr. W.B. Rae being the principal speaker on this mournful occasion.

Every seat in the church was occupied and many mourners followed the remains to their last resting places.

The sands of life had well run down and the end came peacefully after a lingering illness. For many years she was a sufferer from acute rheumatism.

Her maiden name was Margaret Farmer, a farmer’s daughter, and was born at Sellar Dyke, Fifeshire. When William, her oldest son, was 17 years old, her husband died leaving her with a family of five to raise. She went to the work and by laboring night and day she educated them and brought them all to manhood and womanhood. Four survive her, Mr. Wm. Firmage, Mr. John Firmage, Mrs. John McBride, all of Rock Springs, and Mr. James Firmage, now living on a farm in Minnesota. One daughter died in Dundee, Scotland, leaving three children.

The deceased has several brothers in Scotland, veterans of the Crimean war. Up to the time she crossed the Atlantic, seventeen years ago, she was an exceptionally strong woman, but as soon as she arrived in Utah she was attacked by rheumatism and she became a martyr to it up to her death.

She married a second time to Mr. Williamson, but there was no issue, and for several years her sons and daughters were her support. The deceased lived an upright Christian life; a life of usefulness; one of love and duty to her family. Now she is at rest and may she sleep in peace.

--Rock Springs Miner no. 28 July 06, 1899

Learn more about Margaret on the Firmage Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/firmagefamilyhistory/families/farmer/margaret-farmer.

Obituary - Thomas Unsworth Cook

THOMAS COOK

OGDEN, Utah—Graveside services for Thomas U. Cook were conducted Saturday, March 28, at Lindquist’s Memorial Gardens of the Wasatch. Father Francs Winder of the Episcopal Church officiated. The Unity Lodge No. 18 AF and AM also officiated.

Cook, 79, died March 25 at his home in Ogden of a heart attack.

He was born Nov. 30, 1907 in Rock Springs, a son of Edward and Ellen Unsworth Cook. He married Dorothy S. Horn on Sept. 12, 1932 in Salt Lake City.

He lived in Rock Springs, Salt Lake City, Pocatello, Idaho and in the Ogden area since 1955.

He was educated in Rock Springs schools and was a member of the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd in Ogden. He was a member of the Unity Lodge No. 18 AF and AM.

He was a salesman for the Sears and Roebuck Co., retiring July 31, 1972.

Survivors include his widow of Ogden; two sons, Thomas R. Cook of Mesa, Ariz., and Robert E. Cook of Ogden; eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild; one brother, Harold Cook at San Diego and one sister, Mrs. Dolly Brown of Rock Springs.

--Rock Springs Daily Rocket-Miner, Apr 4, 1987

Learn more about Thomas on the Firmage Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/firmagefamilyhistory/families/cook/thomas-unsworth-cook.

Obituary - Ellen Unsworth Cook Auld

MRS. ELLEN AULD DIES IN HOSPITAL FRIDAY AFTERNOON

Mrs. Ellen Auld, 77, a Rock Springs resident for the last 48 years died in Sweetwater Memorial hospital Friday at 1:40 p.m. She had made her home at 1205 Elk Street.

Funeral services will be held Monday at 10 a.m. in the LDS church with Bishop James Barnes officiating. Burial will be in Mountain View Cemetery.

Mrs. Auld was born May 5, 1876 in Leigh, Lancashire, England. She was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Survivors include three daughters, Mrs. John Firmage and Mrs. David Brown, Jr., both of Rock Springs, and Mrs. William Faddis of Kemmerer; and three sons, Arthur and Harold Cook of Rock Springs and Thomas Cook of Pocatello, Idaho.

Learn more about Ellen on the Firmage Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/firmagefamilyhistory/families/unsworth/ellen-unsworth.

Obituary - Gary Lee McPhie

CASPER - Visitation and greeting of the family of Casper resident Gary Lee McPhie, 62, will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. today, Sept. 9, at Bustard's Funeral Home and Crematory. Another visitation will be held from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 12, at Lindquist Funeral Home in Ogden, Utah. Interment will be in North Ogden Cemetery.

He died Sept. 6, 2005, in Casper. Born July 8, 1943, in Rock Springs, the son of Janet (Firmage) and Edward George McPhie; and was raised and educated in Rock Springs and Pinedale.

On Oct. 15, 1982, he married Norine Dickemore in Farr West, Utah. They moved to Casper in 1987. He was employed by Interstate Brand/Sweetheart Bakery. His interests included sports, hunting, and fishing. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and loved spending time with his grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife of 22 years; two daughters, Lorey and Kay of Ogden; son, Gary Jr., of Casper; and three grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother.

Learn more about Gary Lee McPhie on the Firmage Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/firmagefamilyhistory/families/mcphie/gary-lee-mcphie.

Obituary - Janet Hunter Baxter Firmage

Patient Sufferer Passed Beyond

Mrs. John Firmage died at her home in this city, on Tuesday, April 15th, age 57 years, after many months of patient suffering. About a year ago while visiting in Salt Lake, she suffered a stroke of paralysis, and in a short time another stroke which left her in a very weak condition. She had been confined to her bed for many weeks, and a short time before her death, gangrene started in one foot, which caused her death.

Deceased was one of the oldest residents of this town, having come here from Scotland in 1872, and having lived in the one house for thirty years. Left to mourn her loss is her husband, three daughters, Mrs. Jeanette Hunter of Bicknell, Indiana, Mrs. Thos. Richie of Ogden, and Mrs. John White of this city, and son, John Firmage, Adam Cooper, a half brother, and George and Alex Hunter of Diamondville, and George McBride of Salt Lake.

Funeral services were conducted from the Mormon church Thursday afternoon at 2 o’clock, Bishop James Crookston officiating. The floral offerings were many and beautiful.

--Rock Springs Rocket No. 22 April 18, 1913

Learn more about Janet on the Firmage Family History Website:

https://sites.google.com/site/firmagefamilyhistory/families/hunter/janet-hunter-1856.

Obituary - John Leonard Firmage

John Firmage, Sr. Passes

Mr. John Firmage, Sr., member of the Union Pacific Old Timers Association and 40-year Class of 1928, passed away at the Wyoming General Hospital on Thursday, April 6, 1944, where he had been a patient for over a year.

Mr. Firmage was born in Kirkealdy, Fifeshire, Scotland, and came to America at the age of 17 years. In 1886, at the age of 23 years, he arrived in Rock Springs and entered the employ of The Union Pacific Coal Company, working in No. 1 Mine until it was closed down in the year 1910. For a number of years he was boss driver at this mine when all hauling of coal underground was accomplished by the use of mules and horses. After the closing of this mine, Mr. Firmage was employed in similar capacity at No. 8 and No. 10 Mines, Rock Springs, rendering loyal and faithful service until his retirement in 1929. After retiring from the service of the company, Mr. Firmage moved to Salt Lake City, Utah. Each year on the occasion of the Old Timers celebration he never failed to be present. Some years ago on the death of his wife, he returned to Rock Springs and has made his home here. Mr. Firmage has made many friends in The Union Pacific Coal Company who regret to hear of his passing.

The funeral was held at the L. D. S. church of Rock Springs, of which he was a member, on April 9th, First Councilor James J. Johnson officiating. Participating in the services were two nephews, Mr. John Firmage of Salt Lake City, and Mr. Andrew Firmage, of American Fork, Utah. Surviving are his son, Mr. John Firmage, Jr., of Rock Springs, who is ill at the veterans' hospital in Salt Lake City; three daughters, Mrs. R. C. Barrass and Mrs. Edward Hoye, of Rock Springs, and Mrs. James Buchanan, of San Francisco; to whom we extend our sympathy.

--Union Pacific Coal Company Employees’ Magazine, May 1944

Learn more about John on the Firmage Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/firmagefamilyhistory/families/firmage/john-leonard-firmage-1863.

Obituary - Harold Cook

SAN DIEGO - Funeral services for Harold Cook were Friday at El Camino Memorial Park in San Diego.

Cook, 87, former Rock Springs resident died Monday, February 1, in San Diego where he had lived since 1954.

He was born October 17, 1905 in Rock Springs where he grew up and attended schools.

He worked in the coal mines in Rock Springs and for General Dynamics after he moved to California. He retired in 1970.

Survivors include a sister, Doll Brown of Rock Springs; a son Edward E. Cook, Oakhurst, Calif.; two daughters, Fay Miller, Logan, Utah, and Lois Begovich, El Cajon, Calif.; nine grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Lorene Howard Cook, September 24, 1967.

--Rock Springs Daily Rocket-Miner, February 6, 1993

Learn more about Harold on the Firmage Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/firmagefamilyhistory/families/cook/harold-cook.

Obituary - Peter Cook

Famed Morgan Canary Judge Dies at 82 After Long Illness

MORGAN – Peter Cook, 82, of Morgan, died yesterday at his home after an extended illness.

Mr. Cook had a national and international rating as a canary judge. He had judged canaries in every state and in Europe. He was believed to be the first U.S. judge invited to South America and also judged the first international show in Havana, Cuba.

He had raised canaries since 9 years of age and has had a “Canary College” where young birds were taught to sing. His birds were known around the world.

He was a retired Morgan City marshal and had also been a U.S. trapper.

He was a member of the LDS Church and an elder in the North Morgan Ward. He had been a member of the Morgan Ward until the ward was divided two months ago.

Wed in England

On Aug. 17, 1895, he married Anna Ellen Owen in Leigh, Lancashire, England. The couple later received endowments in the LDS Salt Lake Temple.

He was born June 17, 1872, in Lancashire, England, a son of John and Esther Eddon Cook. He came to the United States 52 years ago, residing in Milton, Morgan County and Rock Springs Wyo., before moving to Morgan.

Surviving are his widow, Morgan: one son, Cyril B. Cook, Klamath Falls, Ore.; one daughter: Mrs. Veda Hardy, Portland, Ore.; six grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, two sisters: Mrs. Emma Jones, Minimo [Nanaimo], British Columbia, and Mrs. Hannah Atherington, New Castle, England.

Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday at 2 p.m. in the LDS Morgan Tabernacle, Bishop Earl Butters of the Morgan Ward officiating.

Friends may call at the family home tomorrow night and Wednesday until 1:30 p.m. Burial will be in North Morgan cemetery, directed by Lindquist and Sons Colonial Funeral Chapel, 3408 Washington Blvd.

Learn more about Peter on the Firmage Family History website:

https://sites.google.com/site/firmagefamilyhistory/families/cook/peter-cook-1872.