LOGAN, UTAH: Gwen Ballard Stevenson Pehrson Skabelund, 81, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 10, 2003 in her home.

Gwen was born October 15, 1921 to Henry and Almeda Ballard. Growing up in Benson, Utah, Gwen lived on a wonderful farm with a loving family. She was the middle child of seven brothers and sisters. She was educated in cache county schools and was a student body officer at North Cache High School.

Gwen was sealed to Winward Dean Stevenson on Sept. 6, 1940 in the Logan LDS Temple. Dean was a commissioned officer in the army. He was killed in 1944 during World War II in a jeep truck collision, leaving Gwen alone to care for an infant daughter, Kaye. On April 12, 1945 Gwen married Fridtjof Anton (Tony) Pehrson a widower with two sons in the Salt Lake Temple. To this union a daughter Marilyn was born. Combining families, Gwen and Tony worked together side by side for over 45 years serving the public with their talents in the floral business.

Gwen was a gifted designer and created many memories through her talents. One of her favorite responsibilities was designing the flowers for the Logan Temple open-house and re-dedication. Gwen and Tony were recognized throughout the western states through their floral associations. Tony passed away in 1989. On Jan. 20, 1992, Gwen married Lynn A. Skabelund. For the past 11 years they have enjoyed life. Together, they served an LDS mission at Temple Square in Salt Lake City.

Gwen was a multi-talented person and gave freely of her time and talents. She leaves behind a great legacy of genealogy and histories of many family members and extended family members. Gwen was a marvelous musician. She loved the organ and accompanied many vocalist throughout the area. She has spent her life in the service of others, her family, and her Heavenly Father.

Gwen has served in many capacities in her church and community. Gwen had a great love for the out of doors. Lynn and Gwen loved riding in the car. They have explored every back road in Cache Valley. Gwen loved her home and enjoyed working in her yard. Her greatest love however was her family. She has been the greatest mother and grandmother anyone could have. Thank you mom. We love you dearly. You will sorely be missed.

Gwen is survived by her husband Lynn and two daughters, Kaye Stevenson Groll (Ferris) Logan and Marilyn Pehrson Broadbent (Curtis) Logan, step children, Ray Pehrson, Logan; John Pehrson, Shingle Springs, CA; Craig Skabelund, Logan; Linda Sadler, Cove; Carol Kemp, Logan; a brother, Kenneth Ballard, Benson; sisters, LaRae Falslev, Benson and LaRue Neeley, Smithfield. 15 grandchildren 25 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.

Funeral services will be held Saturday at 12:00 pm in the Allen Hall Mortuary, 34 E. Center. Friends may call at the mortuary Friday evening from 6:00 - 8:00 pm and on Saturday from 10:30 - 11:45 am. Interment will be in the Logan City Cemetery. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.allenhallmortuary.com.