We are saddened by the loss of our sweet Dad, Grandpa, Brother, Uncle and friend. Val W. Bess left us peacefully while at home with family by his side.

Val was the youngest of nine children born to Archie Edward Bess and Rose Butterfield. He grew up in Holladay, Utah and graduated from Olympus High School in 1957. Val was married to Janice Bennion Wilkins on January 23,1964 in Elko, Nevada. They went on to raise their family and spent fifty wonderful years together. Val was a loving and supportive husband, father and grandpa. There were times he worked several jobs just to make ends meet. Jan sadly passed away in 2014.

In 1961, Val was hired by South Salt Lake Police Department. He was a eager young officer who worked very hard through the ranks to acquire the position of Chief of Police. Val served his community and remained Chief of Police for nearly half of his career. Val was a well respected Chief and made many lifetime friends over his years of service. He was a fair boss who did not judge and he gave second chances. Val served his entire career in law enforcement retiring as South Salt Lake Chief of Police in 1991.

Val was one of a kind. Some of our best memories were made fishing with his “Special Bait” and water skiing in the Little Red Boat he had built with his brother Archie. We spent numerous weekends with family and friends at nearby East Canyon Lake and Rockport. Our family always looked forward to our annual hunting trips to Currant Creek with lifelong friends and our special neighbors “The Garcia’s”. We are so grateful to have spent time together and have so many cherished memories.

Val had several aliases; Pa, Chief, Pudgy, Dan Dan the Mustard Man, Uncle Fuzz and Wanna-B Cowboy. All to which he answered kindly to.

He really enjoyed baking, cooking and barbecuing. It was well known that every camp member could place their special omelette order which he happily accommodated. This tradition was carried on for years while enjoying our friends company as we camped up Huntington Canyon. Val loved the holidays and found much joy in making Christmas fudge and goodies to share. He mastered the art of making homemade pies, and most importantly for the kids was his famous Mickey Mouse pancakes.

Val and Jan moved to Ferron, Utah in 1997 fulfilling their dream of moving to the country. Val was an avid horse lover. He took pride in building new stables and a hay barn at their new home. It seemed there was always a new project that kept him busy. He liked to putter and was always there to help out a friend or neighbor. During this time Val owned several horses and raised a couple of Filly’s which he loved dearly. One of his greatest joys was spending time with his youngest grandson Colton once they moved closer to Ferron. These two cowboys built a bond like no other and were inseparable until his passing.

Val is survived by his sister; Laura Stephenson, Bluffdale, UT; Daughter Tammy Bess and Grandson, Colton Bess, Castle Dale, UT; Grandson, Jared Wilkins Mara (Nikki), West Jordan, UT; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family. Special friends and brother-in-laws; Keith Bowden, Holladay, UT and Robert White, Salt Lake City, UT.

He was preceded in death by his parents; seven siblings; wife Janice; Two daughters, Danna Wilkins and Sandy Bess; son, Michael Wilkins. Beloved horses; Princess and Chex.

The family would like to give special thanks for the loving care provided by the staff of Rocky Mountain Care and Hospice. There are truly angels among us.

Val requested no services be held. His ashes will be spread at a few of his favorite places. It would mean so much to Val if everyone would take time to do a kind deed or even just visit family or friends.

We will miss you Pa!

Thumbs up and Go Man Go!

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook and share memories of Val at www.fausettmortuary.com.