He was born June 3, 1931 in Marlow, Oklahoma to Lee & Mildred Rouse but the family soon moved to Phoenix. He loved spending his middle school years in Globe, AZ with the adventures the area allowed and the good friends he had there. After graduating from Phx Union High School, he attended Phoenix College, ASU and Baylor College of Dentistry. Interrupting his college years during the Korean War, he served in the Air Force hoping to become a pilot; but because of a hearing loss, he instead started on the path to becoming a well loved dentist.
He joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints after returning from the service and was an active member most of his life. While at Baylor he met his first sweetheart and mother of his children, Bennie. They were only married 10 years before she was taken from his side.
For forty years he was a gentle, compassionate, very perfectionistic dentist. He loved to sit and visit with his patients, some lifelong friendships were developed through his office.
Vestal was a curious, lifelong learner and reader and had a large collection of books on several subjects. His creative mind was constantly working towards entrepreneurial success. “If it doesn’t happen this year, it’ll never happen.” was repeated probably too often for his family, but he was always serious.
He was quick to be your friend and that friendship would probably last a lifetime. Generosity was always in his heart.
Vestal was preceded in death by his wife Bennie and his son Gary. He is survived by his former spouse Colleen Clarke; daughters Gina Squire (Gus), Jamie Burlett (Edward); step-children Shelaine Bernal (Mark), Melissa Johnson, Michael Johnson (Jennifer); grandchildren Curtis, Katie, Rebecca, Nathan, Sarah, Shae and Benjamin; 6 step-grandchildren and a few scattered cousins.
Vestal has been laid to rest at the National Memorial Cemetery with military honors to follow when restrictions due to Covid-19 have been lifted. His family plans to host a memorial celebration of life in his honor. Details announced at later date.
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