Ernest Allen Hughes, 78, passed away at home on September 17, 2018 due to complications from ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease). He was born in Pocatello, Idaho on Jan 24, 1940 to James Ernest and Mildred Henderson Hughes, the second of four children. The family moved to Holladay, Utah in his youth. He attended Olympus High School and Westminster College. He served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Northwestern States. He married Jeanne Facer June 24, 1964 in the Salt Lake Temple. They were blessed with a daughter Shellie and a son Scott.
He was known as Sonny to many of his family and later as Grandpa Sonny. He performed magic tricks that amazed his children and their friends and continued to astonish his grandchildren in the next generation. He was always ready to play Chess or Monopoly at the kitchen table. The neighborhood children came to ask if he could come out to play. He timed their races, played basketball in the driveway, and shared his latest jokes. Allen was the ultimate expert on ‘50's music. He was delighted when he discovered YouTube. He loved playing golf and drew many friends into his addiction. His lifelong high school friendships expanded into weekly lunches after retirement. His warm and inviting personality made everyone feel loved and accepted. Family history began as an interest in his ancestors and became a driving force in his life. We look forward to a happy reunion with Grandpa Sonny one day.
He is survived by his wife Jeanne, daughter Shellie DeHaan (Kelly), son Scott (Diana). Grandchildren Tanner (Elizabeth), Tate (Hannah), Sam, and Jack DeHaan; Tevin MacNeil, Kaeleigh and Ian Hughes. Sisters Shirley Finkelstein (Ron, deceased), and Gerri Jacks (Paul). Preceded in death by brother Jim.
Sincere thanks to Inspiration Hospice for their supportive care.
Funeral services will be held Friday, September 21, 2018 at the Granite Ward, 9245 S. Quail Run Drive, Sandy, Utah at 12:00 noon. A viewing will be held Thursday evening at Larkin Sunset Gardens Mortuary, 1950 E. Dimple Dell Road (10600 South), Sandy, Utah from 6:00-8:00 p.m. and 11:00-11:45 a.m. prior to services at the church.
