Hazel Idale Lebaron

Our precious and cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend, H. Idale Shaffer LeBaron, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on August 31, 2017. Although she resided in Orem, Utah, under the devoted care of a daughter, she finished the last of her grand life of 90 years in her beloved Colorado. She was born in Taber, Alberta, Canada, to John Henry Shaffer and Crystal Hope Lee, and was the third daughter of 7 girls and one brother. Her Valentine Birthday on February 14, 1927, so remarkably fit her life of unconditional love for all.

Idale loved this beautiful earth and had a passion for the outdoors. She hiked the Colorado National Monument every day and many were amazed to find they could not keep pace with her. She loved the birds, baby bunnies, and ducklings. When a hummingbird built a nest in a tree beside her home, she watched over the tiny eggs as carefully as the mama. This became her personal trademark that delighted all for many years. She enjoyed extensive travel with her husband of 58 years, R. Gordon LeBaron, who knew the moment he met her that she was to be his bride.

Idale’s greatest joy and devotion was her family of 9 children, 54 grandchildren, and 28 great-grandchildren, with two more on the way. She not only loved her children, but knew them individually and personally. Every single grandchild knew they were her very most favorite. All birthdays and anniversaries were remembered, never missing even one. She was loyal to her beloved Canada, endeared and treasured by her sisters and good friends.

Quips of humor and wonderful wisdom, homemade bread and rolls, canned peaches and pears, playing Rook at family reunions and especially the decadent Christmas chocolates will always be remembered and missed. Idale leaves behind a remarkable legacy of profound faith in a loving Heavenly Father, never once wavering in adversity. She endured to the end with great courage and strength. She will forever be honored for her remarkable generosity and loving example. Idale knew her Savior, Jesus Christ.

Idale is preceded in death by her husband, Gordon LeBaron, and a daughter, Donna. She is survived by her loving children, Jeanene (Stan) Kellett, Robert (Aleta) LeBaron, Dahlin (Pamela) LeBaron, Christine (Ralph) Whiting, Michael (Sheila) LeBaron, Colleen (Clif) Larsen, Regan (Teresa) LeBaron and Jon (Lori) LeBaron; also, three dear sisters, Ila Tuff, Jean Hirsche and Cleo Lind in Alberta, Canada.

Special thanks and deep appreciation is extended to St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction, Colorado for their excellent, gentle and compassionate care.

Please join us to celebrate a life well lived on Saturday, September 9, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at the LDS Lakeview Stake Center, located at 400 W. 1800 S., Orem, Utah. A viewing will be held prior to the service from 9:30 to 10:30. Interment will take place at American Fork Cemetery.