David Alden Harline of West Valley City, UT, passed away with his wife by his side on October 12, 2026, at age 84. Born on October 9, 1942, in Logan, Utah, to Alden Kay Harline and Lola Crookston, David entered the world while his father served in WW II in Nebraska. As the eldest of 11 children, followed by seven sisters, Because his father was a doctor back when they had an office and made house calls; David handled most of the yardwork and cared for the family's large swimming pool, greenhouse. and enormous library.

From a young age, David learned the value of hard work. He spent his early years in Salt Lake, near grandparents Oscar and Lorena Harline. For kindergarten, he lived with his grandparents Byron and Emeline Crookston in Logan, attending a summer program at Utah State University because kindergarten wasn't available yet in Salt Lake City. David also lived in Larkspur, California, while his father interned at the Marine Hospital in Presidio. Over his life, he resided in Logan, Nebraska, California, Hyrum, Ogden, and, for the past 54 years, West Valley City, where he owned three homes, with two of his children's families just across the street.

He graduated from Ogden High School in 1960, enjoying Science, Rocketerering, Chess, and Forum clubs. After graduation, he joined the Jr. ROTC, then the Army Reserves, serving six months at Fort Ord, California, in Ordinance Supply training

.From 1961 to 1963, Elder Harline honorably served a mission in New Zealand for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where he learned to cherish the Maori Culture.

Upon returning from his mission, he enrolled at Weber State to study Education and Library Science, earning his bachelor's degree in Education in 1967 and later a master's in Instructional Technology from Utah State University in 1970.

David met his eternal companion, Mary Jean Jacobs, atop Ben Lomond Peak while leading 50 girls to the top from Camp Lomonda. They first met when she was 15 and he was a returned missionary.  They reconnected each year for the next three years. ver the years at stake meetings. Their first date was the musical "South Pacific," sparking a lifelong love for theater. They married in the Salt Lake Temple in December 16, 1966 and raised five children: Glen, Jeannette, Brenda, Julie, and James. The family enjoyed annual road trips,mountain hikes, reunions, Hale Theater productiuoins, ice skating, roller skating, backyard swimming, and boating adventures.

A natural teacher and builder.  David shared his knowledge with his children and grandchildren, making sure both his daughters and sons knew basic car maintenance before they could drive.

His five children are his pride and joy. This is from a letter he wrote about his children: they use their hands to bless others by being good cooks, fixing things and being problem solvers. They have all made education a priority and reinforced this in their own families. Their concern for others well being is paramount in their lives. They are all honest, have a testimony and are continuing to develop the attributes of Jesus as taught in the gospel. “Keep trying, keep growing, continue to hope, continue to love. Such an attitude coupled with faith is what makes life worth living and eternally successful. You are all well on your way.”

David loved his career as a Library Media teacher at Olympus Jr. High for 37 years, working alongside Donna Lindquist. He supported his children's newspaper routes and his wife's work as an Area Sales Manager for the Salt Lake Tribune, often rising at 2-5 a.m. to deliver bundles of papers to the carriers before starting his school day. Towards the end of his career he managed and trained students to broadcast over the classroom televisions the morning announcements and other special items of interest to the student body.

He was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterr-Day Saints. He was active with the Elders, Young Men's organizations, and a High Counselor.  He helped his wife with Ward Emergency Food Preparation, always advising, "Eat what you store and store what you eat!" He faithfully observed the Sabbath and ensured his family attended church, even on vacations. Monthly, he helpied to support missionaries out in the field and Humanitarian Projects.

His community service included CERT training and Neighborhood Watch. Every Friday and Saturday night he and usually Ken Christopher would drive around the neighborhood looking for suspicious activity. Many appreciated their vigilance, such as gently reminding neighbors of open garage doors at 10 or 11pm at night as many did not lock their door between the garage and their back door.

David is preceded in death by his parents and sibling Geneil Harline Davis. He is survived by his wife, Mary Jean; children Glen (Stacy), Jeannette (Dee), Brenda (Norman), Julie (Aaron), and James (Michelle); his 3 brothers and 6 sisters; 12 grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter.

The family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses and CNAs at Intermountain, First Choice Hospice and Legacy House who have tirelessly, day in and day out, cared for David and tried to help him be as comfortable as possible.

The funeral will be held October 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints ward building, 2976 W. Winchester Dr. (4270 S.), with a viewing from 9:45 - 10:45am.

Internment will be at the Redwood Memorial Cemetery, 6500 S. Redwood Road, West Jordan, UT.

In lieu of flowers, consider donating to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Missionary Fund, Humanitarian Fund, or something dear to your heart. Know that you are Loved!!!

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