Tribute to Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin

Updated: 7:11 AM- LDS Church Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, a member of the faith's Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, has died. He was 91. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints confirms that Wirthlin, who was the faith's oldest living elder, died peacefully about 11:30 p.m. Monday at his home shortly after going to bed. He succumbed to causes related to old age, the church says. Wirthlin was born in Salt Lake City on June 11, 1917 to Joseph L. and Madeline Bitner Wirthlin. His Father served as the Presiding Bishop of the Church. Elder Wirthlin graduated from the University of Utah in Business Administration. He received from Brigham Young University a Doctorate of Christian Service Honor is Causal, April 26, 2001. He is an Eagle Scout. He was active in athletics in high school and played football (running back) at the University of Utah. Before his call as a General Authority, he was a prominent business leader in Salt Lake City. He was also president of a trade association in Utah. Elder Wirthlin served a mission to Germany, Austria, and Switzerland in the late 1930s. Among other positions in the stake and ward auxiliaries, he has served as a counselor in the Bonneville Ward bishopric and as bishop. He was a member of the Bonneville Stake high council and a member of the stake presidency. He served as a counselor in the General Sunday School Presidency until April 1975, when he was called as an Assistant to the Twelve. He married Elisa Young Rogers May 26, 1941 in the Salt Lake Temple. They are the parents of eight children. Sister Wirthlin passed away on August 16, 2006.