On August 25th, Kent Max Youd, age 73, surrounded by his family passed peacefully from this world to be reunited with those gone before, especially Amberly. He was born in Spanish Fork, Utah to Max and Marie Youd and started on a journey that would shape him into a Marine, Iron Worker, Horseman, but most importantly, Husband, Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather.

He will lie in repose under the colors of a grateful nation because at age 17 he answered the Country’s call and joined his beloved Marines. One year later was in the jungles of southeast Asia as a combat engineer in Vietnam. It was at that time he learned the skills that would serve him in life and make him a standout in his trade.

Returning from Vietnam and after honorably serving as a sergeant in the corps training others, he became a lifetime member of the Ironworkers local 27, book #940222 and proceeded to build power plants and bridges. It was the latter that he is renowned for. From Eagle Canyon to the Hoover Dam bypass, He was able to connect shear canyon cliffs and cross the chasm with structures that appear to float in the air. These marvels of engineering and form approach sculptures of art and reflect the dedication to his craft and to his fellow Ironworkers.

When not working he found a love for horses and horsemanship. A love that started when he first saw Gene Autry and Champion and led to him throwing loops and wrapping dallies as part of the Arrowhead riding club and later, caring for contestants and club members at rodeos and club rides with the Diamond Fork Riding Club. Names like “Lady”, “Twinkle”, “Tootsie” And “Jack”  will forever be special with those that knew him and spent time at the arena or on the trail with him.  He is an honorary member of the Diamond Fork Riding Club, and a real cowboy’s cowboy.

All of this was the background music to the true loves of his life. His grandchildren were there to learn from the traits of this man, and all have special memories of Grandpa Kent that will be blessings for generations. Even near the end, the light of Great Grandchildren filled his clouded eyes and brought a joy that sustained him and others during the difficult times.

He loved his children and taught them to be honorable and trustworthy. The Marines, Ironworkers and horsemen of the area can thank Kent for raising them to follow in his footsteps and be hardworking and dedicated. He loved his daughter, around whom his world turned, and their reunion has given comfort to those that must wait a little longer to be reunited with him again.

All of this would not be possible if Kent’s Journey did not include an ice cream date with the Hansen girl from Payson. His loving wife Becky allowed him to know love and patience, and to practice patience as well. Their love brought about a family that carries not only the name, but the spirit of Kent Youd.

Kent is preceded in death by his Parents, Ivan and Marie Youd, a sister, Connie Whittmack, and a daughter, Amberly Youd. He is survived by his wife, Becky Lee Youd, four sons, Jarett (Shari) Youd, Weston (Heather) Youd, Shawn (Kristin) Youd and Matthew Youd, Fifteen Grandchildren and three Great Grandchildren.

A viewing is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 29th at 6:00 PM at Walker Mortuary (187 S Main St, Spanish Fork). An additional viewing on Friday Aug. 30th at 9:30 AM at the Lakeshore chapel (5916 South 3200 West Spanish Fork, Utah) will be followed by the funeral services at 11:00 AM. The family wishes to thank Hannah “Montana” with Maple Creek Home Health and Hospice for the compassionate care provided during Kent’s final days.

The funeral services for Kent Max Youd will be streamed live. Please return to this memorial page shortly before 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 30, 2024 and click on the link below.

Kent Max Youd's Livestream Broadcast