When John D. Rees joined the church in 1846, he probably did not have a full understanding of the sacrifices he would make throughout his life for the gospel. He sacrificed living in his home country to live with the Saints in the United States. He was later called a missionary to go back to Wales and had to leave his family behind. He also had to leave his family behind when he was called to be in a Bishopric in Idaho.

In the biography created about his life it describes his dedication as such, "This call was a hard trial for John D. Rees, as his families were in Brigham City, also his civic and private interests; but true to his trust and the religion he loved, he went willingly, taking Cecelia and family with him the other two families remained in Brigham City. He drove back and forth, as there were no railroads in that direction, making trips as often as possible."

Along with this being said about his character overall:

"He was the father of twenty-seven children. They all remember him as always kind, cheerful, and thoughtful, often bringing them candy and gifts when he had been away. John D. Rees was five feet nine inches in height; had a broad, well-proportioned body; dark hair, laughing brown eyes, regular features, and such a genial disposition that all pronounced him a handsome man."

Even though I did not know him personally, I feel a connection with the example and legacy he left behind. He was a great man who made many sacrifices all because he believed in God's plan for him.