And Then There Was One

I had a lovely chat with Clark Hodgkinson today and found out that my dad's last living brother, Grant died a few days ago and that Mary, the sister just older than my dad, died a week before that. What a sweet reunion they must be having. The remaining child of those 10 children is Rayola Anderson who lives in Murray, Utah. As kids we used to love to hear my dad give the rundown of the names of his siblings as fast as possible. He said that was how he and his siblings recited the names during prayer - Hilda, Lowell, Ralph, Reed, Wilma, Grant, Mary, Melvin, Rayola, Doris. We all got pretty good at saying them very quickly. Mary Balch's obit says that she has many nieces and nephews that loved her, I must say that I haven't done as much as I could to nurture that relationship, especially after Grandpa Hodgkinson died. Grant was always so much fun and willing to help anyone and everyone. I hope you kids know what a noble Hodgkinson Heritage you do enjoy. These 10 brothers and sisters were pretty amazing each in their own way - and I remember them fondly and with love. I think I am resolved to take the time to give Rayola a visit sometime very soon.

Mary Hodgkinson Balch 1920 ~ 2007 86, passed away April 7, 2007 at her home in Orem. She was born in Vernal, Utah on October 25, 1920, the sixth child of Lewis and Mary Armina Hodgkinson. Mary had many pleasant memories growing up with her four sisters and five brothers. She moved to California where she worked as a Civil Service Clerk. Mary married Lee T. Balch in 1972 and their marriage was later solemnized in the Oakland Temple. She was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many positions, as her greatest love was serving as the music leader in the Primary. Many people treasure the quilts Mary lovingly made for them. Mary spent many hours reading and especially enjoyed poetry. Mary and Lee were proud parents of a daughter, Marilee and a son, Brent. Lee died in 1971 and their son Brent, was killed in an automobile accident in 1978. Mary moved to the Aspen 8th Ward in Orem in 1991 and made many new and loving friends. She is survived by her daughter Marilee (Curtis) Gardner, and their children Amber, Kamie and Shane, and a great-granddaughter, Anika. She is also survived by a brother, Grant Hodgkinson and a sister, Rayola Andersen, and many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.

Grant Hodgkinson
Grant Hodgkinson He lived to serve 1918 ~ 2007 Grant Hodgkinson born in Naples, UT 1918. The son of Lewis Martin Hodgkinson and Mary Armina Haws. Married Lois Kelsey 16th of December 1952. During World War II he served in the Marine Corps in the Pacific Theater. Served an LDS mission in the central states. He loved fulfilling his callings in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and to provide service to others. Survived by his wife; and children, Clint (Heather), Holly (Curt), Scott (Teri); eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren; and sister, Rayola Andersen.