Goodbye Old Friend

When we first moved to California our bishop was Paul Cannon. Paul served his mission in southern Italy like I did. We became pretty good friends. I was their home teacher for 4 or 5 years.
For the past 9 years Paul has been battling Leukemia. This past Friday he lost his fight. I had been meaning to visit him since Christmas but it seemed every time I had had a free day Paul would be in the hospital under quarantine or at home not receiving visitors. I really regret not getting to see him again.
Thursday evening Susie and I drove to Lehi to the viewing. We were able to talk to Heather and all the children. What a wonderful family. I've attached a photo of Paul and his obituary below.

Paul Martin Cannon, sixty-three, of Saratoga Springs, died August 14, 2015 at the Huntsman Cancer Institute.
Paul was born, March 19, 1952, to Sterling and Phyllis Cannon in Idaho Falls, Idaho. He grew up with two sisters and six brothers in Ammon Idaho. From an early age, he had a fondness for sports and horses. His love for music flourished throughout his life. He could captivate an audience, which was apparent since a teenager, signing in high school and college performances. Even president Jimmy Carter enjoyed Paul singing on the lawn of the White House.
Paul served an LDS mission in Italy. The love he bore for Italian food, culture, and people shaped his and his children's lives for years to come. The gospel of Jesus Christ was the driving influence in his life. He served in many positions within the LDS church where he touched many lives and was looked up to by the youth.
Paul always enjoyed the company of others. His love of people allowed him to excel as a salesman for over thirty years at Kawneer where he made long lasting friendships with both customers and colleagues.
Paul married Heather Egginton on December 18, 1974 in the Manti, Utah Temple. Together, they raised seven children in California and Utah. Not only was he passionate about singing with his guitar, but also church history, The Civil War and his family, in particular his thirteen grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held Friday, August 21, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. in the Saratoga Springs Stake Center, 587 South Saratoga Road, Saratoga Springs, Utah. A viewing will be held Thursday August 20, 2015 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Wing Mortuary, 118 East Main, Lehi and one hour prior to the service at the church.