Rudolph Valentino Tino Federico

Rudolph Valentino Tino Federico passed away peacefully in his home at Pioneer Valley Lodge on May 2, 2010. Dad was born on September 8, 1924, at home, about two miles north of Smithfield, Utah. He was the youngest of ten children born to Guistino and Carmela Pascetta Federico, immigrants from Italy. Dad was the last surviving member of his immediate family. As a child and young man growing up on the farm in Smithfield, Dad learned the value of hard work milking cows by hand, raising chickens, planting and harvesting crops. He attended elementary school in Smithfield and completed one year of high school. In those days, it was okay to keep your children out of school to help work on the farm. In the little free time Dad had, he liked to ride horses and bulls at the rodeos. The work ethic Dad developed in his early years stayed with him throughout his life. Dad was inducted into the U.S. Army in August 1945. He served in World War II with the 11th Airborne Division, 188th Parachute Infantry Regiment, Company D. He was trained as a rifleman and earned his Parachutist's Badge. He was stationed in Japan for much of his military service and received the World War II Victory Medal and the Army of Occupation Medal. He was very proud of his military service. He has been a long-time member of the American Legion. Dad met Etta Clara Yost in June of 1944. They were married in the Logan LDS Temple on March 21, 1947. Together they made their home in Logan, Smithfield and Trenton, then returned to Smithfield to "retire." They were married for 53 years until Mom passed away in December 2003. Shortly after that time, Dad moved to Pioneer Valley Lodge in North Logan. Dad worked for Steed's Dairy, Cache Valley Dairy, and Cream O'Weber delivering milk to stores and schools. In June 1966, he was able to fulfill his long-time dream of owning his own farm and moved the family to Trenton. Dad loved the 23 years he spent as a dairyman and farmer. His love of farming was evident just by looking at how meticulously the land was cared for and how clean the Holstein cows and pens were kept. In 1976, he was named Dairyman of the Year by the Cache Valley Dairy Association. He also grew a wonderful garden. In 1989, Dad sold the farm and he and Mother moved back to Smithfield for their retirement years. They enjoyed traveling and took many great trips together throughout the United States and Canada. They especially loved the bus tours. They were also active members of the Smithfield Senior Citizens group. Many family campouts were also enjoyed. He was a life-long member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints serving in many positions. One of his most rewarding callings was serving as Scoutmaster in the Smithfield 4th Ward. He served in this position for many years helping many young men. At the time of his death, he was a High Priest. He was also a home teacher until his health would not permit this service. Dad supported many causes and charities and was generous with his time and resources to help and serve others in need. He never expected anything in return. In many cases, anonymous donations were made to help others. He was a frugal man who always lived within his means. He is survived by his four children: Roma Tom Lee, Dee Jay Marjorie Grant Federico, Judy Monson, and Debra Wayne Thomas. He leaves behind a posterity of 12 living grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Etta, parents, all of his brothers and sisters, and two grandchildren, Toya Thomas and Kevin Wheeler. The family will honor Dad's wishes that no funeral service be held. Friends and family are invited to a viewing at Nelson Funeral Home, 85 South Main, Smithfield, on Thursday, May 6, 2010 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. and on Friday, May 7, 2010 from 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. Graveside services, including military rites, will be held at the Smithfield Cemetery at noon on May 7. Grateful and sincere thanks are extended to Integrity Home Health & Hospice, Hearts & Hands Homecare, and residents of Pioneer Valley Lodge for the compassionate and loving care they extended to Dad.