Donald Pendergrass

Don Pendergrass passed away on September 3, 2026, of causes incident to age.

Don was born in Hemingford, Nebraska, on December 12, 1934. In June 1942, he moved to Great Falls, Montana, with his mother, Mildred, and his brother, David. He attended public schools there before completing a body fender apprenticeship and becoming a journeyman in the trade.

Building on his experience and interest in vocational education, Don attended the College of Great Falls and later earned a degree in vocational education from Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado. He went on to teach his trade at Central Utah Vocational School in Provo, Utah, now known as Utah Valley University. Don retired in 1992 after 31 years of teaching.

In 1955, Don married Beverly Fredrikson. They shared 66 years of marriage and raised two daughters, Kathy, who married Bob Janzen, and Sherry, who married Richard Dittmann. Don is also survived by Kyle Porter and Diane Chapman, who is married to Andy Chapman, and one granddaughter, Maya Chapman. Beverly and Sherry preceded Don in death.

Throughout his life, Don enjoyed river running, restoring old cars, and traveling. He restored many cars for himself and his friends, taking great pride in his craftsmanship. His love of working with his hands continued through his years of service after retirement.

Don and Beverly volunteered with Habitat for Humanity for several years. Don also spent more than a decade working at Orem Community Church to establish and maintain a community garden. With assistance from members of the Fourth Ward of the Stonebridge Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the garden produced three to five tons of vegetables each year for people in need.

In keeping with Don’s wishes, there will be no public funeral service. Instead, his family will gather privately for a meal to celebrate his life, share memories, and honor the love, generosity, and craftsmanship he brought to those around him. Don will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family and friends. Many loved him and he loved many.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Humane Society in Don’s memory. Such gifts would honor his compassionate spirit and his lifelong concern for the well-being of others.

Condolences may be extended online at www.bergmortuary.com.