James Donald Bird

James Donald Bird, age 83, of Springville, passed away January 20, 2012, at his home surrounded by his family. Don was born May 16, 1928 in Springville, Utah to Arvil and Doris Lambert Bird. Don lived his entire life in Springville.



From a very young age Don learned the value of hard work and always tried to instill that in his children. Beginning at a young age he had the responsibility every summer of raising turkeys throughout the foothills of Springville. He worked with his father, Arvil, running the Springville Poultry Plant and managing the family's poultry farm. He was employed by Meadow Gold Dairy and Garrett Freightlines. After retiring, he started a family business, Bird Storage.



Don married Colleen Holley in the Manti Temple and they were the parents of six children; Kerry Bird (Karen), Denise Pickering (Craig), Leslee Henson (David), Cindy Bird, Scott Bird, and Steven Bird (Jill). Don and Colleen were later divorced.



Don's first love was his family, and cars came in a close second. He collected many cars and trucks over the years, and loved going to car shows. Don always had a boat and loved going to Fish Lake and Lake Powell with his family. He enjoyed the family cabin in Fairview and cherished his travels to all parts of the world with his married children and their spouses.



He was a High Priest in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and served as a faithful Home Teacher.



Don married Maria Natividad on February 5, 2011. She has been his loving companion and caretaker for the past year.



Don was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Brent and Blaine Bird, his sister Beverly Clark, and his daughter Cindy. He is survived by his brother Jon Bird, his wife Maria, his children, 18 grandchildren, and 35 great grandchildren.



Funeral Services will be held on Friday, January 27, 2012 at 11 a.m. in the Pheasant Valley Ward, 1157 W 900 S, Springville, UT. Friends may call on Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Wheeler Mortuary, 211 E 200 S, Springville, UT or Friday from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. at the church. Burial will be in the Springville Evergreen Cemetery.



The family would like to thank Margaret from IHC Homecare Hospice for her care and attention to Don.



Condolences may be sent at www.wheelermortuary.com