Morris Eugene Squire, 93, of Manti, Utah passed away Feb. 7, 2017 in his home with family members close by.
Morris was born Aug. 20, 1923 to Franklin D. and Rula G. Squire, also of Manti. In his early years he and his siblings helped on the family farm between Manti and Sterling. He went into active duty with the United States Army on Dec. 18, 1943 where he joined the 105th Infantry Regiment part of the 27th Infantry Division during World War II. Morris was injured by an enemy mortar on Easter Sunday, April 20, 1945; during the invasion of Okinawa.
On May 16, 1947, Morris was married and sealed to his darling companion Beverly Geniel Lyon, in the Manti Temple. Together they lived a beautiful life in Manti raising four sons; Douglas (Susan), Gaylen (Kathy), Kim (Debra) and Terry (Shelly), all of Manti.
Morris owned 13 acres between Manti and Sterling where he kept a small herd of sheep and grew various feed crops, here and on other property in Manti, and where he taught his sons to work hard and be honest men. Each of His and Beverly’s 11 grandchildren as well as older great- grandchildren enjoyed playing, seeing and feeding new lambs, riding horses, and having family outings at these places.
Morris was a sixth generation Squire of Manti who many knew and grew to admire, appreciate and respect for his friendship, service, livelihood, and passions. He worked for Manti City for many years, and after his retirement he could be seen each summer driving a city tractor around town trimming weeds along the city streets.
He loved horses, and going out with his boys and lifelong friends, on many rides in the mountains and other favorite places. Morris’ grandchildren will remember many family camping trips on the mountain and Easter vacations at Gunnison Reservoir in the red Ford pickup with the camper in back, playing games and listening to old country music with their grandparents.
Morris is preceded in death by his wife Beverly, his parents, three of four siblings, Meade, Keith and Renae Nielson, and grandson Michael Squire (Gaylen and Kathy). He is survived by his youngest sister June Larsen (Norman), his sons and their spouses, 10 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren.
Morris was a member of the Manti American Legion Post 31; graveside services included military honors by the Manti American Legion and Utah Honor Guard. Interment was at the Manti City Cemetery on Feb. 13, 2017; where he now rests at his sweetheart’s side.
Funeral Directors were Magleby Mortuary in Manti.
