My Grandpa

Ralph M. Bott
Ralph M Bott 1919 ~ 2008 BOUNTIFUL- Ralph M Bott, 88, passed away peacefully, at home surrounded by family and loved ones, on Saturday, July 5, 2008. Ralph was born September 19, 1919 in Brigham City, Utah. His parents were Joseph Jensen and Florence Wright Bott. He graduated from Pocatello High School, and then enlisted in the United States Army, to serve his country during World War II. He was stationed for 39 months in the remote Dutch Harbor base in Alaska, and was involved in the conflicts known as the "Bloody Aleutians". Ralph was married to his eternal companion, Ruth Leone Poole, during the war on September 10, 1942. They were later sealed together in the Salt Lake LDS Temple on May 17, 1944. Ruth was Ralph's loving and devoted sweetheart for 53 years and then she passed away in December of 1995. Ralph later married Winifred Jensen Davidson, for time in the Bountiful Temple, April 14, 1999. She has spent nine years with Ralph as his devoted companion, caring lovingly for him during his recent illness. Wini survives him and cherishes the time they had together. Ralph was a great father, grandfather, husband and friend, who cared deeply for everyone that he knew. A more generous man is hard to find, and that was the example he was to his family and friends. As a father, he loved to hunt and fish with his boys, and spend time with his family at their Star Valley cabin in Wyoming. He was a dedicated member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and served with dedication in many callings during his lifetime. He established The Bountiful Memorial Art Company in 1952, where all of his sons worked closely with him, and learned from him. Ralph is survived by his four sons, Dennis (Martha), Robert, David, and Roger (Diane); 22 grandchildren; and 37 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Wanda Cottam. Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, two brothers, his beloved wife, Ruth and two special daughters-in-law, Jan and Kris. A special thanks goes to those who provided Ralph with hospice care. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 9, 2008 at the Bountiful 11th Ward Chapel, 115 Wicker Lane, Bountiful, Utah. Friends and family may call Tuesday evening from 6-8 p.m. at Russon Brothers Bountiful Mortuary, 295 North Main and Wed. morning from 9:45-10:45 a.m. at the church prior to services. Interment-Bountiful City Cemetery. Online guest book at www.russonmortuary.com Published in the Salt Lake Tribune on 7/8/2008.