Lamar Kiholm Pond

Lamar was born on March 13, 1940, in Fairfield, Idaho, to Roland and Rose (Kiholm) Pond. He grew up on his family's ranch, where severe asthma often kept him indoors. It was during those hours that he learned to play the piano. By the time he was in high school, he had memorized 12th Street Rag, which became one of his signature pieces and the most requested song at family gatherings. An accomplished pianist and singer, he found joy in sharing music with others and faithfully used his musical talents to bless others in church and at home.

Lamar’s faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of his life. Throughout the years, he served faithfully in many callings in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including on the High Council, bishoprics, stake mission presidency, choir director, Primary pianist, numerous Sunday School callings, and as a devoted minister wherever there was a need.

He enjoyed a long career as a design engineer in the power generation industry. His work took him throughout the United States and around the world, including two years living in Saudi Arabia. He appreciated the opportunities his career gave him to travel, experience different cultures, and build lasting friendships.

Lamar was known for his intelligence and engineering mind, his legendary dislike of bananas, his unmistakable sweet tooth, and the familiar sight of leaving a little food on his plate at nearly every meal. Those simple quirks, combined with his faith and steadfast example, are memories his friends and family will always treasure.

More than any accomplishment, Lamar was proud of his family and considered them his greatest blessing.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Denise (Kleck) Pond; his children, Troy (DeeDee) Pond, Maralise Pond, Barry (Bekki) Pond, Michele (Karey) Zimmerman, Bethany (Matthew) Harger, and Casey Eyring; 20 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren; and his brothers, Glen (Bonnie) Pond and Louis (Mary) Pond.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Shirly (Eyring) Pond; his son, Lance Roland Pond; his parents, Roland and Rose (Kiholm) Pond; and his brother, Dewayne Pond, whose wife, Heidi, remains a cherished member of the family.

In addition to his immediate family, Lamar leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends from his church communities, his years in the workplace, and the many lives he touched along the way.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at:

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

2520 E. Old West Highway

Apache Junction, AZ 85119

Family and friends are invited to visit with the family from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. in the Relief Society room, prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the General Missionary Fund or the Humanitarian Aid Fund of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or to another charitable organization of the donor's choice.

Virtual attendance is available via Zoom:

https://zoom.us/j/95828834164pwd=wl9ug2nSdCjI855i3qtrb2qDbYUR6m.1

Meeting ID: 958 2883 4164

Passcode: 754411