DOWNEY – Elward “Snub” Simpson Burton, 95 of Downey, passed away peacefully at his home on November 8, 2008.
He was born January 15, 1913, in Downey, a son of William Johnson and Christa Simpson Burton. He lived his entire life in Downey, growing up with his 11 brothers and sisters, cousins and many friends. He graduated from Downey High School, class of 1933, where he excelled in football, track and basketball.
He married Donna Bybee in Blackfoot, Idaho, on December 10, 1936. In 1955, Elward and Donna were sealed for time and all eternity in the Logan LDS Temple. Born to them was one daughter and three sons. He dearly loved his wife and children.
“Snub” worked for the railroad on the section crew and PFE until retiring. He had helped install the high-voltage power lines that cross the valley. He worked at other jobs through the years and was proud that he could out work anyone working with him.
He was known in Downey for his excellent garden and his generous way of sharing it with neighbors and friends. He and his friend, Fred Hadley, worked many summers cutting truckloads of wood in the canyon, much of which he shared with those in need.
He was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, worked as a Seventy and was a high priest. He had served as a stake missionary, worked in the Scouting program, and had been a coach for men’s basketball.
Elward is survived by his wife of 73 years, Donna; sons, Gary (Goldie) Burton of Monmouth, Oregon, Wayne (Luanna, deceased) of DeSoto, Missouri; 13 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, LaNae, a son, Blaine and all his 11 brothers and sisters.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday November 15, 2008, at 11 a.m. in the Downey LDS Ward Chapel. Friends may visit with the Burton family on Friday evening, Nov. 14 at the church from 6 to 8 p.m., and on Saturday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow in the Downey City Cemetery.
The family suggests donations to the Downey Second Ward missionary fund. Please send condolences to www.horsleyfuneralhome.com.

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Published in Idaho State Journal on Nov. 11, 2008.