Cover photo for LaRue Bennett Willden's Obituary
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1927 LaRue 2017

LaRue Bennett Willden

June 3, 1927 — June 6, 2017

On June 6th, mere days after a glorious celebration of her 90th birthday LaRue Bennett Willden, beloved mother and grandmother, was radiantly lifted heavenward into the arms of her husband, who had awaited her return to him for nearly 50 years. LaRue was born to Arlean Elizabeth Wood Bennett and Joshua Lawrence Bennett in Deseret, Utah. The youngest of five children, she lived a life of love, faith and constancy, marrying the man she adored on Valentine's Day in 1946. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Manti Temple on May 25, 1951. LaRue lost her great love, Delbert Verland Willden, in 1968, leaving her a young mother of five boys. The life she had imagined tragically abbreviated, she crafted a future for herself and her children with bold courage and unassailable strength of character. Challenged to fill the roles of both mother and father, she bravely, stubbornly, and successfully rose and soared. LaRue was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She served faithfully in many church callings throughout her life. As if her hands were not full enough, LaRue also worked at Sears in Salt Lake City for 27 years from 1963 to 1990. With her children grown and flown, LaRue began making dolls, a hobby that would sustain and entertain her for over 30 years. She won awards, acclaim, and the awe and admiration of all who saw her beautiful creations. She loved her family fiercely and unstintingly. LaRue was single-minded in her determination to hold everyone in a close embrace, and one of her greatest hopes was the continuation of her legacy of love. LaRue leaves behind her five sons: Gary (Joan), Phil, Bruce, Randal (Sherrie) and Layne (Stacee), former daughters-in- law Kay Willden, Amy Lou Willden, Terri Wood, new member of her circle, Micki Neil, as well as 23 grandchildren, and 46 great-grandchildren. The family wishes to extend its special thanks to Mr. Doug Phillips, her neighbor, friend, and confidant. Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 10, 2017, 11:00 a.m., at McDougal Funeral Home, 4330 South Redwood Road, where a visitation will be held from 10-10:45 a.m. Interment, Redwood Memorial Estates. Place of Birth:Deseret, UtahPlace of Death:Midvale, Utah
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