1938 – 2024
Salina, Utah – William Kenneth Orton age 85, of Salina, Utah, passed away Thursday, February 22, 2024, at the Central Utah Veterans Home in Payson, Utah.
He was born September 30, 1938, in Cedar City, Utah to Ivan Benson and Mina Gurr Orton. Ken spent his childhood in Cedar City, and often shared fond memories of working at his dad’s gas station as a young boy. A graduate of Cedar City High School, he went on to join the United States Navy.
Ken married Connie Taylor Shepherd on October 31, 1987, in Cedar City, Utah. Their marriage was later solemnized in the St. George Temple.
Ken was a very proud Veteran of the United States Navy. And continued to serve as a member of the Salina American Legion Post #36 along with other Civic Clubs: Cedar City Elks Lodge where he was a Past Exalted Ruler, and also Past President of the Salina Lions Club.
As a member of the Old Time Fiddlers, he enjoyed music, cowboy poetry and playing his guitar, especially at the North Sevier Senior Citizens activities and weekly dances. Oh did he love to dance and visit with friends.
Before his health declined, he loved spending time with his extended family on many camping, hunting and fishing trips. He loved to hunt and was an avid fisherman.
Ken is an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where he served as Scout Master and Executive Secretary. He also served an L.D.S. Mission at Cove Fort with his wife Connie.
Ken is survived by his children, Kirk (Dede) Orton, Kevin (Becky) Orton, Son in law Charlie Woolsey, Kenny (Julee) Shepherd, 16 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Connie Orton; daughter, Camille Woolsey; parents, Ivan and Mina Orton; siblings, Cloyd Orton and Errolynn Ence.
The family wishes to extend their thanks for the care that was given Ken at the Central Utah Veterans Home.
Graveside services will be held on Monday, March 4, 2024 in the Salina Pioneer Cemetery. Friends may call for viewing at the Springer Turner Funeral Home, 150 East Main Street in Salina, Monday morning from 10:30 to 11:30 A.M. prior to the services.
Burial with military honors accorded by the Salina American Legion Post #36 and the United States Navy Honor Guard will be held at 12:00 Noon at the Salina Pioneer Cemetery under the care of the Springer Turner Funeral Home of Richfield and Salina, Utah.
Online guest book at: www.springerturner.com
