Orson Devon Osborne, 93, died May 13, 2016. He was born to Virgus Pratt Osborne and Vurleen Allred on January 20, 1923, in Spring City, Utah. He fell in love with Dona Rae Allred in kindergarten and they were married on July 16, 1943, just before he left for the war. Their lifelong romance has been a sweet example to all who knew them.
Ozzie was a P-38 fighter pilot in WWII, completing 50 combat missions and logging several victories. He received the Distinguished Flying Cross.
Ozzie served his family, community and church throughout his life. A graduate of the University of Utah, he became a licensed CPA and was a partner at Peat, Marwick and Mitchell. Later, he helped build the largest local accounting firm, now known as Tanner and Co., and served as the firm's president for five years. He was awarded the Utah CPA association's Distinguished Service Award for 1989.
Ozzie was a long-time member of the Kiwanis Club, serving as chapter president and district lieutenant governor. He and Dona were charter members of Willow Creek Country Club, where he was treasurer and a director. He was president of the Las Palmas homeowners' association in St. George during its formative years.
A devoted member of the LDS Church, Ozzie served throughout his adult life in numerous ward, stake and local mission callings and often bore his testimony to family members.
He and his beloved wife created a secure and happy home for their children. He never let his career and service responsibilities interfere with his family life, and rarely missed his kids' games and performances. He was a proud and loving supporter of his four children and their spouses, and their families. Importantly, "Dad-Dad" was a sterling example of integrity and selfless service.
Ozzie is preceded in death by two sisters, two brothers, and a son, William Orson Osborne, who died shortly after birth. He is survived by his wife, Dona, a sister, Thelma Rigby, and his children: Christine Paxton, Steven (Tina) Osborne, Martha (Michael) Smith, and Trace (Mindy) Osborne. He also leaves 16 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.
A viewing will be held Wednesday, May 18, from 6pm to 8pm at Larkin Sunset Lawn Chapel, 2350 East 1300 South. Funeral services and interment will begin at noon on Thursday, May 19, also at Larkin Sunset Lawn. Friends and family may call one hour prior to the service. Online remembrances can be shared at www.larkinmortuary.com.
