Arzy W. Crystal

The trail has ended, and the good lord called Arzy home on February 25, 2025. He was born to Herman and Reva Crystal on December 19, 1927, in Kamas, Utah. A beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, who left us at the age of 97. A proud Navy veteran of WWII, Arzy lived a life full of service, love, and joy, leaving behind a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Arzy grew up with a deep love for the Kamas Valley, becoming a true "cow man" at heart. After his Navy service, he spent his early years working as a miner until the mines shut down. He then worked for the Fur Breeders Association, hauling sawdust shavings, all while managing his family farm. Arzy worked the land with pride, but his passion for life extended far beyond the farm. Known for his charming personality, Arzy was a social butterfly who would talk to everyone and make anyone feel welcome.

Arzy spent his retirement years traveling with friends and making new ones wherever he went, eventually settling into a routine of spending summers at his home in Francis and winters at his “south” house in Arizona. As the self-appointed mayor of Beaver Dam, Arzy became a well-loved and familiar figure in the community. Whether at the cook shack, the party house, the corner store, or on the porch, he was always ready with a cold drink and a warm greeting. His infectious sense of humor and boundless love for people made him a friend to everyone he met.

Arzy is survived by his children: Mary Etta McDonald, Judy (Ken) Hammerschmidt, Rex (MJ) Crystal and Bill (Debbie) Crystal; 29 grandchildren, 65 great-grandchildren, 25 great-great grandchildren; his siblings: Maxine Long, Jimmy (Janice) Crystal, Arnold Crystal, and many friends who will forever cherish his memory. Arzy is preceded in death by his first wife Wilma Woodard Gines Crystal, his second wife Gwen Crystal, children: Stanley, Ken and Gordon Gines, and Don McDonald, siblings: Chris Crystal, Pete Crystal, Betty (Norm) Johnson, Audrey (Doug) Godfrey, Jim Long, and Christine Crystal. His life was a testament to the power of love, laughter, and living each day to the fullest.

A celebration of Arzy’s remarkable life will be held at the Kamas City Event Center, 50 E 400 S, Kamas, Utah on Tuesday, March 4, 2025. Luncheon from 12:30-2:00 with a life celebration program starting at 2:00 with graveside services to follow. Internment at the Francis Cemetery.