A Legacy in Pharmacy
David Faux graduated from the School of Pharmacy at Idaho State College in 1959. In 2013, the college had since become a university, the school had become a college and it was David’s grandson who was receiving a diploma and transitioning from a student to a pharmacist. For David, having someone follow in his footsteps didn’t quite pan out the way he expected.
“I have four sons and two daughters,” David said. “And I suspect that in the back of my mind I fancied that one might become interested in pharmacy but it never happened.”
While all his children became successful in their own careers, it was his grandson, Wesston Faux, who not only decided to become a pharmacist, but also to attend David’s alma mater.
“My grandpa was always a respected man in his community and seemed to really enjoy what he did,” Wesston said. “When I was fairly young, I remember my grandpa talking about what he did and how much he enjoyed his career. He passed that on to me through our regular interactions and I decided I wanted to become a pharmacist.”
David’s own interest in Idaho State came from Donald (Pat) Holbrook (’58) from Chesterfield, ID who happened to marry David’s next door neighbor. Holbrook told David about the merits of the School of Pharmacy.
“I received an application form with information as to what I needed to do to enroll,” said David. “This really impressed me and as a result I decided Idaho State it is. And a great choice it was.”
After graduation, David began working at Smith Rexall Drug, an independent family owned pharmacy, in Pleasant Grove, Utah. In 1982 David and Craig Smith, a grandson of the Smith Rexall Drug founder, purchased the store and became partners for the next 20 years. In December 1999, David and his wife departed for a LDS Mission to the Philippines. Upon their return, David began working every other Saturday while filling in shifts for several pharmacies in Utah.
“Three pharmacies I really enjoyed working at were Wayne County Health Center, Montezuma Creek Health Center and Monument Valley Health Center,” said David.
David’s last day as a registered pharmacist was on September 30, 2013 when he worked a shift at Smith Rexall Drug. The same year that David’s 54-year career came to an end, his grandson’s time as a pharmacist was just beginning. “It was a very rewarding and gratifying day. A grandson following in my footsteps. Wonderful!” David Said.
Looking back, David says he thoroughly enjoyed his time at Idaho State and his career as a pharmacist.
“I don’t ever remember not being enthusiastic about going to work. Many customers became good friends. And there was that special feeling you had when a customer thanked you for your service and/or advice that helped them during times of sickness or suffering.”
Wesston now works at Maag Prescription in Pocatello and says he really enjoys working for an independent pharmacy, similar to the one his grandfather owned for so many years.
Written by: Jake Dixon
