William Mullen

Peacefully, on Wednesday, December 18, 2013, we said good-bye to our beloved father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend as he slipped quietly from this mortal life into the waiting arms of his sweetheart, mother, father, and brother. He was born May 31, 1925 to George Lee Mullen and Amelia Marie Schmidt in Salt Lake City where he remained in close proximity for his entire life. He met and wooed his high school sweetheart, Betty Jane Gillespie, and later became part of this extended family on April 8, 1945. True to his convictions when he joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the couple solemnized their union for time and all eternity on November 19, 1948 in the Salt Lake Temple. Throughout the 88 years we were blessed to have him near, Bill lived his life to exemplify our Savior with love and service to his family and fellowmen. He was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, serving in many ward, stake, and scouting assignments. He loved to be in the Temple and served in the Jordan River Temple as often as he could with friends from his ward. Dad attended the University of Utah and graduated from LDS Business College. He was associated with the baking industry for over 45 years continually improving his craft with learning and research producing delightful products which are to this day unmatched. He served with the Navy in the Pacific during WWII. Reuniting with his ship’s crew, he has attended several and twice hosted the Kitkun Bay Reunion, his last being in San Antonio, Texas this past October accompanied by his daughter, Patricia. Dad enjoyed trailering, camping, and time spent with his Betty and their eight children. His four boys and four girls have many fond memories and stories of the adventures their family holds dear. Coming from railroad backgrounds, both Dad and Mom loved to travel by train. Together, they enjoyed our beautiful America, visited many interesting places, and made new friends along the way by rail. Our father will be remembered as a man of integrity, believer of hard-work, a doer of good deeds, a learner of that which is praiseworthy, a man of his word, and through all the challenges life presents, a proponent of humor and laughter. Preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Betty Jane, by his parents, and by his brother, Ron. Survived by all of his children: Gill Mullen (Linda), Linda Dever (Charles), Patty Wilson, Laura Shepherd (John), Craig Mullen (Deann), Clyde Mullen (Colleen), Carl Mullen, Julee Shepherd (Kenny), 31 grandchildren, 57 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren. Services will be held at the Redwood Mortuary, 6500 South Redwood Road in West Jordan, with a viewing Sunday, December 22, 2013, 6 to 8 p.m., and Monday, December 23, 2013, at 10:00 a.m. with a funeral following at 11:00 a.m. Love one another for this life is a brief and precious moment. May we always remember our roots as our family tree with its eight strong braches looms heavenward. Until we meet again, we love you, Daddy!