Rex Dayton

Rex Dayton departed his earthly life on Saturday November 8, 2014 due to injuries sustained while enjoying his true passion – hunting in the outdoors.  He left behind many loving family, friends, colleagues and admirers.

Born March 31, 1941 in Montpelier, Idaho, Rex was a native and lifelong resident at heart of Cokeville, Wyoming.  He attended and graduated from Utah State University.  In August 1965, he married Kathleen Michaelson in Montpelier, Idaho;  they were to celebrate 50 years of marriage next summer.  During much of his adult life, he resided in Evanston, Wyoming where he and Katie raised their family and retired.

Rex worked for the State of Wyoming Department of Corrections for 36 years prior to his retirement in 2004.  He was an outdoor enthusiast, never missing an elk hunting season in all the years known to his family.  An accomplished fisherman, he would have rod in hand every annual Memorial weekend.  As his children and family grew, never did summertime pass that his loving family failed to congregate and celebrate summer camping in the Smith’s Fork of western Wyoming.  He was a dedicated husband and father, and a very special grandparent that all the young ones adored.

He was preceded in death by parents, Eldon and Dorothy Dayton, sister, Dorothy Lee (Dayton) Suchesk, and beloved horse Shadow. He is survived by his wife, Katie of Evanston, WY and Salt Lake City, UT; sons Michael (Kate) Dayton, Cherry Hills, CO, Gregory (Kimberly) Dayton, Pacifica, CA; and Daniel (Gail) Dayton, Salt Lake City, UT.  Six beloved grandchildren also survive him.

Rex was known for his ability to entertain, connecting with his warm personality. He enjoyed creative practical jokes on his loved ones; those around him could rely on his quick wit and humor in any situation. Above all, he loved to spend time with his true friends and family members. In accordance with his wishes, cremation was performed.  A memorial service will be held at the Crandall Funeral Home of Evanston Wednesday November 12, 2014 at 1 pm to celebrate the gift that his life provided.

In lieu of gifts, a donation may be made to Pancreatic Cancer Research in honor of Rex to The American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org or 1-800-227-2345.