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BORN
1934
DIED
2014
FUNERAL HOME
Byron Poelman Obituary
July 1, 1934 - April 11, 2014
B. Lloyd Poelman passed away peacefully at home following a struggle with Lewy Body Disease. Lloyd lived a thorough life. He worked diligently to provide for his large family, he served God by dedicating his time and talents to numerous church callings and he remained an ever kind and gracious man.
Born at home in Salt Lake City, Lloyd grew up with few material possessions, but rich in love, faith and music. As a young man Lloyd served an LDS mission to the Netherlands, his fatherland. In midlife he served as president of the Tennessee Nashville Mission, accompanied by his companion Catherine and family where the last of nine children was born. He loved and served others as a bishop and stake president in the University, Bonneville and Monument Park North Stakes. After retiring from practicing law at Kirton McConkie, Lloyd served with his wife as senior missionaries in the rural town of Colina, Chile. Most recently Lloyd felt deeply privileged to serve in the Salt Lake Temple.
Lloyd was largely a self-taught musician who composed several instrumental and choral numbers, enjoyed improvising on the piano and playing his organ. At different times in his life, Lloyd was drawn to pigeons, motorcycles and books on the cosmos. He enjoyed years of construction projects and recreation at the beloved "Mill" in rural St. Charles, Idaho. With tools, stain and sweat, he led the transformation of an old grain mill into an eclectic, inviting family gathering place.
His wife Catherine Edwards, children Elizabeth (Stephen) Simmons, Rebecca (David) Bennion, Emily (David) Sheffield, Cathy (Marc) Boyden, Michael (Tawna), Martha (Todd) Ethington, Andrew (Betsabe), John, twenty-seven grandchildren and one great grandchild, brothers Stuart (Helen), Keith (Linda), and sister Marva (Bob) Pothier are comforted to know Lloyd is once again vitally engaged on the other side of the veil alongside his son Stephen, his parents Hendrik and Ella, his brother Ronald (Anne), and sister Carol (Brent) Feltch.
The family feels deep gratitude to compassionate friends, neighbors and medical personnel who helped them care for Lloyd over the past months and years.
Better than flowers in Lloyd's memory would be contributions to the Temple Patron Assistance Fund.
Funeral services will be Saturday, April 19, 2014 at noon at the Monument Park 2nd Ward, 1005 South 2000 East, Salt Lake City, Utah. A visitation will be Friday evening at the same location from 6-8pm and at 10:30am prior to services. Interment will be at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park, 3401 Highland Drive, Salt Lake City, Utah.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Byron Poelman
Sponsored by Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park and Mortuary.
Edward Henson
April 7, 2019
Wow it's hard to believe it's been 5 years since this man's passing. I'm grateful to have gotten to know him. Until we meet again we will see you later
carlo caroli
December 13, 2016
Most heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Poelman and the Family. I met Mr. Poelman while serving a mission in Tennessee. Thank You for the memories. RIP.
March 15, 2015
As we come up on my father's 1st year passing. I, Emily, would like to express my sincere gratitude to all those that have made kind comments, memories, support and messages of love to our family in our time of adjustment. My father touched many lives and it brings me great joy and peace to read the memories he shared with you.
We love you,
Emily Poelman Sheffield
Russell Stout
January 21, 2015
I loved that man very much. I will miss him.
Lynn Farias
August 2, 2014
Catherine:
It's been many years, but you and President Poelman are two of the strongest people I have ever personally known. Your example of love and forgiveness has been a shining example to me. I hope our paths cross again. Love, Lynn Farias, Monument Park 2nd Ward 1992-1995.
Darrin Smith
May 28, 2014
My condolences. One of the most powerful tapes Pres. Poelman gave us missionaries back in 1980 was one entitled "Purpose plus Power". In it he told some things that have stuck with me all these years: 1. I know exactly what I want to do and be. 2. Accomplishing this is more important than anything else. 3 I have specific plans for long range and short range goals. 4. I follow the plan every day. I have thought of this often and appreciate his wisdom. I remember him playing the piano with a song he wrote to all the missionaries. I appreciated that talent.
Sister Poelman and President Poelman at Mission Home in Brentwood, Tennessee
Sister Judy Peck
April 25, 2014
Sister Missionaries Willert, Peck, Duffy, and Duffin
Sister Judy Peck
April 25, 2014
I served with President Poelman only a year after joining the Church, and I always felt he was a mentor for me as well as my mission president. He had a wonderful zest for life and loved his family and our Savior. My thoughts, prayers, and love go to all the Poelmans for their service and their loss of one so dynamic!
Elder JP Leddy with President and Sister Poelman Nov. 1979
JP Leddy
April 25, 2014
JP Leddy
JP Leddy
April 25, 2014
He will forever be one of the heroes of my young adulthood. He was my Mission President who taught me life lessons that still resonate for me today. My prayers are with Sister Poelman, his children and grandchildren. I will remember his humanity, his faith and his love. -JP Leddy ( Tennessee Nashville Mission 1979-1981)
Diane and Brent McMaster
April 24, 2014
Dear Catherine and all of the extended Poelman family,
We were touched and inspired by the beautiful funeral service for Lloyd. The music and expressions of love by your family were outstanding and heartfelt. We are grateful for the friendship the Poelman and McMaster families have shared for four generations. Hendrik and Ella were dear friends of Stuart and Clara. Their children Lloyd and John were well known in the quartones as they sang every Christmas dressed as elves at ZCMI and also won songfest honors at the U.of U. I,(Diane), accompanied Catherine on the plane when we both spent spring break in Washington DC. It was very exciting because Catherine and Lloyd were engaged that week and I was able to share in the excitement. Lloyd served well as my father's administrative assistant in the United States Congress. The years we have known Catherine at East High and also the U of U were happy and memorable days.
We have been impressed by your wonderful family and the love and unity you all share, as well as the devoted care you have given Lloyd for several years during his illness. May the Lord's choicest blessings be with each of you. Know that we love you and cherish the happy times we have shared with your family.
We send our love and deepest sympathy,
Brent and Diane McMaster
Edward Henson
April 21, 2014
I am very grateful that I got to meet this nice man. I could tell that he had has great love for his family and friends. He will always be rememberedin our hearts. The body may be dead but his soul is still alive and he is with all of us no matter where we are. And I am glad that he is not suffering no more and one day we will all be on the the other side we are all still on our mission until the father and the son calls us home and tells us our mission is done here on earth we have a new assighnment for you in the holy place I say these things in jesus name amen
Edward Henson
April 21, 2014
May his body R.I.P. I count my blessing for having a chance to meet Lloyd. I wish I could been there for the funral I'm sure it was nice and I am glad that john and I became Best friends if it wasnt for that I would have never me Lloyd. Until we meet again see you on the other side
Edward Henson
April 21, 2014
It was nice meeting Lloyd and Catherine when I lived in SlC and when I came to visit from out of town. I always felt welcomed in their home when I came over with or with out my best friend John. Thanks for letting me know and I am sorry that I could make it to the funral and I am glad that he lived a good life may god bless him and his wonderful family
April 20, 2014
What fond memories I have of President Poelman, his awesome wife and family. I served with him in the Nashville mission. Truly an amazing man who I have looked up to all of my life. He taught me many great lessons which I still use today. He was a father figure to me.
Rest in peace you great man. May your families hearts be held in the master's hand. I love you all and will always be grateful for your service to me personally.
Love you all.
Elder Brian L Waddoups
R. Chet Loftis
April 19, 2014
I had the opportunity to work closely with Lloyd as a young attorney. I count myself blessed for the experience. He taught me about professionalism, client service, and dedication to the law. He was a class act and mentor in every sense of the word. My sympathy and appreciation to you, his family.
April 19, 2014
Thank you both Lloyd and Catherine for an unending example of faith, courage, and trust in the eternal. I have learned so much from you over the past 30 years. God bless you as you both go forward- Preston Richards
April 18, 2014
Dear Catherine and family,
My sincere condolences, I did't know Brother Lloyd much but through your words I learned that he was a great husband, father and most of all a son of God. My thoughts and prayers are with you dear friend and family. May the Spirit of the Lord confort you and your family at this difficult time.
Love,
Maria Mendoza
April 18, 2014
Catherine, Rebecca, and Wonderful Poelman Family, Thank you for the abundant "gifts of self" you have each so graciously and abundantly given. That is the legacy of a remarkable family, who have blessed the earth with goodness and courage and faith. You honor your earthly husband and Father, Lloyd, with the goodness of your lives. You also honor your Heavenly Father. May you each be blessed and comforted and strengthened at this tender time. With much love and caring-- Larry, Terri and Emily Jensen
Garfield and Margo Cook
April 18, 2014
To Catherine & Family,
We extend our deepest love and sympathy at this tender time. We have many fond memories of our association. Lloyd was a dear friend, talented in so many ways. He generously shared his gifts and we were blessed to be among the many recipients. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Garfield and Margo Cook
Working on DC temple towers
Matthew Ogden
April 17, 2014
President & Sister Poelman,
How can one measure a persons or couples influence they have on others....?
President Poelman's commitment to Christ and his wife and family was everything to a young missionary. Having had the choice blessing of his 'training' me in rugged areas of Tennessee was choice! At times frustrating, he challenged missionaries to look deep, find the spirit, overcome the natural and look to God for directions and answers. President Poelman's lessons of 'sprinting to the finish' or his experience of prayer with the spirit giving instruction to 'strike the metal post and not the concrete' gave him support, or his analogy of 'I's shoots first then draws the bulls-eye' on how not to set goals, still influence me today.
His love for music was fantastic. His mission song, 'Reap The Harvest' still echoes in my soul. I love it. Well written.
His dedication, testimony and enthusiasm still strengthens me. I love B. Lloyd Poelman. What a wonderful man, follower of Christ and son of God. Thank you for being your best!
My sincere condolences to his lovely wife and family.
Jonathan Choate
April 17, 2014
Dear Poelman family,
I had the opportunity to serve as a zone leader in the same area of Colina, Chile with the Poelmans. They worked so very hard at reactivating and fellowshipping less-active members as well as investigators through their music. A musician myself, I remember thinking how awesome it was that they could use those talents to help bring people to Christ. They would always be energetic and excited to share with us the people they were visiting and the work they were accomplishing. You had a very positive impact on me as a missionary. My deepest condolences to the Poelman family in this difficult time.
April 17, 2014
Deepest Sympathy from the Fred and Jane Watson Hales Family
April 17, 2014
Dear Poelman Family,
Our love and prayers are with you and your family. Lloyd was a kind gentleman and will be missed. We have fond memories with your family in Nashville.
God bless you. Love, Blaine and Nancy Hart
charles ernest puff
April 17, 2014
I was saddened to see that my Temple Brother had passed away. It was an honor to serve with him in the Salt Lake Temple.
April 17, 2014
Poelman Family:We have many fond and uplifting memories of being with your family in the MP 2nd Ward. Lloyd was an inspiration and example to us. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. With much admiration, Elder Barry and Sister Barbara Jessen-Georgia Atlanta North Mission
Celia & Frank Cutler
April 16, 2014
Catherine and Family, we send our heartfelt sympathy to you in your loss. May you have our Father in Heaven's comfort to be with you at this difficult time.
Chad Thies
April 16, 2014
I didn't know Lloyd but I do know his son Mike. He raised a wonderful man!
- Chad Thies
Mike Tew
April 15, 2014
Elder Poelman, as I came to know him, was such a great individual. I had the pleasure of being in the same zone as him and his dear wife in Colina, Chile. It was always a pleasure to bump into them while being out working. I have such a fond memory of seeing he and his wife in the temple before my wife and I were sealed in 2007. He will be missed, but yet he will remain a great example to me throughout my life.
D Peterson
April 14, 2014
I'm so sorry to hear about President Poelman. I have fond memories of him from my childhood. He was always so kind and sincere. His son Andrew was a great friend of mine and I am happy that I knew the Poelman family. My the Lord comfort you all.
Ginger (DeLaMare) Cannon
April 14, 2014
My memories of Lloyd and Catherine go back a long time as I babysat Elizabeth as a new baby. You were an amazing couple even back
then. I appreciate your friendship with my parents and our family as well! May you feel the comfort of the Spirit. As you move on with your lives.
Tom Monfrooy
April 14, 2014
My sincere condolences to the many members of Lloyds's family. I did not know Lloyd, but I knew his brother Keith in the Netherlands Mission in the early 1960's. He was a wonderful person. Earlier in the Netherlands (1927 or thereabouts) my grandmother knew Lloyds father as an LDS missionary. When I was still a young person, I used to hear her talk about various missionaries who used to come and have dinner at her place in Rotterdam, but it was always with reverence in her voice when she would mention Elder Poelman. I am sorry that I never met Lloyd, but I'm sure I would have liked him if I had. May the spirit of the Lord be of comfort to all of you.
Norman David Shumway
April 14, 2014
I don't recall having had any communication with Lloyd since 1960 when he and I were students and co-members of Delta Phi at the University of Utah, but he had an indelible effect on my life which has never been forgotten. I longed to be like him - full of wisdom, maturity, good judgment and respected by all. He was one of my heroes and I will always be grateful for the many positive lessons he taught me, all by his sterling example. I wish now that we had had a closer association during his life.
With best regards for all family members,
Norman D. Shumway (in Tokyo)
April 14, 2014
Dear Aunt Catherine,
Although our associations have been infrequent, they are very dear to me. Your visit with Uncle Lloyd to our home is a cherished memory. Thank you for watching over us since our parents have passed away. I know that Uncle Lloyd was welcomed with open arms by my parents...but you know that my father and grandpa is going to get him to work on the other side of the veil as soon as possible. And Uncle Lloyd will do it gladly. Our thoughts and prayers really are with you and your family. Much love, from someone who also cherishes our name, Catherine Edwards Tryon
April 14, 2014
Rebecca, Dave and Family: I am so sorry for your loss. Your father, grandfather was a spirit that I wish I had had an opportunity to meet. However, after being introduced to Rebecca, Dave and the Bennion children I do not doubt for one minute that his spirit will live on for all eternity.
Prayers and love to you all,
Rhonda Kelley
John Richardson
April 14, 2014
I am so grateful for Uncle Lloyd. What an amzing man he was and is! Christ-like is what comes to my mind when I think of the life and legacy he has left all of us to follow. I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve with him and Aunt Catherine in Chile. Their love and support during that time and since then has buoyed me up and inspired me to be the best I can be. Thank you Uncle Lloyd and Aunt Catherine! We are praying for your family. I will miss Uncle Lloyd and cherish up the memories I have of him.
Norma (Strang) Larsen
April 14, 2014
To Keith and Linda and families,
I express my sympathy to all of you. Remember that time and good memories are great healers. Remember to thank our Heavenly Father for the Plan of Salvation and may you and others find peace and comfort through the Gospel.
A classmate from East High,
Norma (Strang) Larsen
Jim Jackson
April 14, 2014
I am saddened to hear of Lloyd's passing. I remember this kind and gentle man when he was my bishop in a singles ward at the University of Utah.
April 13, 2014
Dear Catherine and Family,
Bonnie and I were saddened to learn of the passing of your dear husband, and our dear friend, Byron Lloyd Poelman. I remember well our association over the years and especially the time spent with you in the Tennessee Nashville Mission. We pray for your comfort and peace.
Please extend our love and condolences to your dear family. May the Spirit of the Lord be with and comfort you all during the tender times ahead.
With love and faith,
Rex and Bonnie Pinegar
Tim Lunt
April 13, 2014
Lloyds son Steven worked for me and was just a wonderful soul. I was impressed and admired him very much. I had many opportunities to get to know Michael as well and is someone I look up to with the highest respect and regard. Outings, playing ball, etc. Both were tight friends of my younger brother through whom I came to know them. Couple of my favorite people I've ever known which I believe speaks to the parents. Thank you for blessing my life indirectly and may God be with the whole family at this difficult time.
Lots of Love,
Linda (Ingles) Barker
April 13, 2014
Dear Poelman Family,
May the God bring you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your minds …
Catherine, my heart has been full of tender thoughts of you over the years and there my love will remain.
April 13, 2014
I will remember Uncle Lloyd as a kind man with a fun sense of humor, who supported major family events in our extended family. He will be missed.
John Poelman (son of W. Squires and Eleanor Poelman). Squires and Lloyd were cousins.
PRESIDENTE GARTH Y HERMANA KAY LYNN WAKEFIELD
April 13, 2014
Our Dear Elizabeth and Stephen, Catherine and the rest of your family,
We were so saddened when we read your dear father's obituary today. We know how very proud he was of his family. He and your dear mother Catherine raised a beautiful family. Also in his law practice, he was one of the "very best."
Catherine, you and Lloyd did many things in your lives and one of the greatest was raising your sweet Elizabeth. She was absolutely one of the best missionaries we had in our Spain Bilbao Mission! She had such determination to succeed in everything she attempted.
Elizabeth, we well remember the first time we saw you. We had received our call to preside over the Spain Bilbao Mission and you had received your call to serve with us, as one of the very first missionaries called to the new mission. We were in our back yard in SLC trying to get things in order so we could leave, and you walked right into our back yard and we became acquainted. What we remember most is the question you came to ask us (other than just acquainted). You asked for special permission to take your violin to Spain. How could we have turned down that beautiful smile of yours! Of COURSE we gave you permission and you used it a lot. Ah, yes, those were wonderful memories.
Elizabeth, you definitely inherited your father's great love for music, and also you inherited his desires to learn everything he could possibly learn.
I worked with your father for a short time in the firm of Lloyd, Strong and Poelman and that was a great time.
We love all the Poelman family and we know that our kind Heavenly Father has His arms wrapped around you right this minute.
Marianna Richardson
April 13, 2014
Uncle Lloyd was a great example to me. I remember him and Aunt Catherine having such a loving and caring family. I enjoyed hearing their stories about trips to Mexico helping so many others. Then, when my husband became a mission president in Brazil, I was so thankful for the support of Uncle Lloyd and Aunt Catherine. Also, Uncle Lloyd and Aunt Catherine were missionaries with my two children who were serving in their same mission in Chile--John and Hannah. I am so thankful for their love and support of my children. I love their missionary spirit and their missionary examples to me. He was truly a great man who was supported and cared for by a loving wife. I am so thankful for their examples in my life.
Haley Birkeland
April 13, 2014
Lloyd and Catherine both hold a special place in my heart. What an amazing example of love and devotion. My thoughts are with your entire family.
Shauni Cracroft Young
April 13, 2014
I had the fortunate experience to work for Lloyd at Strong, Poelman & Fox in the early 1970s while I attended the University of Utah. I found him to be a man of great integrity. I believe he was also serving in the University Stake at the time, where I enjoyed hearing him speak. My parents, Paul and Kathryn Cracroft, also had great respect for him and Catherine and the entire family. I have used Catherine's fresh peach pie recipe for years and have thought of her often as we enjoy that luscious refreshing dessert. Your family has added so much to my life, and I appreciate your great examples of faith. The world and I will miss the influence of this great man.
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