Andrew LaVell Veteto, 87, passed away on January 28, 2022, surrounded by a loving family in his favorite place, home. He was a loving husband for over 67 years to Barbara Jeanne Merrill, his high school sweetheart who he adored! They were married in Gresham, Oregon, on June 26, 1954, and then drove to the Salt Lake Temple and were sealed for time and all eternity June 28, 1954.
LaVell was born October 6, 1934, in Honeyville, Utah, to Edgar Franklin Veteto and Louisa Venetta Madsen. He was the youngest of six – he had four older brothers and one older sister. His family moved a lot throughout his childhood, attending four different high schools. He made friends wherever he went, which remained an endearing trait for the rest of his life. He never met a stranger and was the best neighbor!
He was known far and wide for his integrity: at home, church, and work! He was a rare “honest” sales rep for petroleum products and earned the trust and respect of many people who called him ‘Andy.’ He’s always been a hard worker and great provider, clear to the end.
He enjoyed playing the harmonica, the ukulele, singing in the car, in choirs, and solos. In his free time, he loved woodcarving, refinishing furniture, dancing (with little daughters on his feet), fishing, frequently yelling the Tarzan call, shooting guns, gardening, and doing anything that included family. He was the best dad for his daughters, often shopping with his wife and daughters, taking his girls on daddy/daughter dates, and spending time with them.
LaVell enjoyed life and focused on his family. He attended every significant event of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, as well as countless small ones – he showed up for YOU. His children’s spouses were welcomed with open arms and treated like family. LaVell will be remembered for his great smile, his valiant testimony of his Savior Jesus Christ, his sense of humor, (bad) dad jokes, and pranks. He was always willing and able to fix anything & everything and offered to help any one of us anytime – he was our Renaissance Man!! And he will be sorely missed!!!
He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where he faithfully served in many callings throughout his life. He and Barbara happily served two missions in Nauvoo, Illinois. There he thoroughly enjoyed sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ and using his many talents singing, dancing, acting, playing the harmonica, painting, and gaining many skills while working for the Nauvoo Restoration Committee, restoring furniture and homes. LaVell was a perfectionist and could make anything look amazing! He served 13 years as a temple worker with his wife in the Mount Timpanogos temple.
LaVell is survived by his loving wife, Barbara Jeanne; his daughters, Kimberly (Doug) Button, Cynthia (Jerry) Harper, Beci Hunting, Melyssa (Matt) Riggs; 25 grandchildren w/ 17 married; 60 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter.
He was preceded in death by his son, Andrew Merrill Veteto, and two daughters and their spouses, Julie & Wayne Hardinger and Kari & Brad Green. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Humanitarian Aid Fund and the Missionary Fund (of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints), OR better yet, take your family out to dinner and enjoy their company without cell phones!
On Friday, February 4, 2022, his funeral service will be held at 11 am in the Hillcrest First Ward chapel at 949 N. 540 W, American Fork, UT. A viewing will be from 9:30 am to 10:30 am, prior to the service. Interment will be at Pleasant Grove City Cemetery.
LaVell’s family would like to express their love and appreciation to all the healthcare/hospice workers who came into their home to help care for him, especially nurse Melanie. They were exemplary in their respect and kindness and showed such professionalism with a personal touch, compassion, and concern.
Dad/Grandpa was a great example to all of us, and we are so grateful to have been part of his life! See you on the other side!!!
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