Devon Merece Hurst


December 8, 1924 ~ July 5, 2012
Devon Merece Hurst passed away on July 5, 2012 in Monticello, UT.
He was born December 8, 1924 in Blanding, UT to Oscar Parley and Alfreata James Hurst, the ninth of 11 children.
He was a veteran of World War II, serving in the Army Air Corps.
He was a radio operator, mechanic and gunner on a B-24 bomber stationed in the South Pacific. He witnessed the first atomic bomb being dropped on Hiroshima.
He was proud of his military service and was a patriotic man his whole life. He still had his military uniform and wore it on numerous occasions over the years.
After the service, he married Dollie Williamson on June 18. 1946 in the Manti Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
To this union five children were born, Gerri (Brent) Helquist, Etta Dunow, Nancy (Rick) Dutcher, Devon Maurice and Richard (Arleen) Hurst. Devon Maurice passed away in 1960 shortly before his fifth birthday.
His beloved Dollie passed away in 1987.
He married Gene Johnson in 1988. Gene passed away after a sudden illness in 2002.
In 2003, he married Patricia Johnson. She passed away in 2010.
He loved to travel and traveled all over the world including Australia, Italy, Panama and Hawaii. Despite all of his travels, he was a true son of San Juan County and loved to explore the beautiful country. He knew the county like the back of his hand.
He was a self taught engineer and geologist. He had many jobs. He was the water man for the City of Blanding for many years, worked for Texas Refinery Company and owned a roofing company, among other things.
He was most proud of his position as manager of the San Juan County Water Conservancy. He was concerned about water development in the county. He drilled many wells for private citizens and communities.
He was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He had a strong testimony and quiet faith that was shown by his example to all that came in contact with him.
He loved his family. He always had a smile, hug and a song to share.
He is survived by his children, 18 grandchildren and 45 great grandchildren.
Funeral services, with full military honors, were held in Blanding, UU on July 12, 2012. Interment at the Blanding Cemetery.