Gary Francis Carlson

Gary Francis Carlson, 59, died surrounded by his loved ones on August 26, 2024. Gary was a good-natured man who loved family and his close friends. He was always present at all family gatherings and was sure to bring a delicious treat like his world-famous brownies or yummy potatoes. He was devoted to his family and thrived in being there to support them and never forgot a birthday, we will miss all the birthday cards that were picked out specific for each person.

He was born in Bountiful, Utah in 1965 to Alvin Ernfried Carlson & Joan McKinnon Carlson. He grew up in Grand Junction, CO, until moving to Kearns, UT when he was 10. He graduated from Kearns High School and then went onto working for various companies throughout his lifetime.

Gary met the love of his life, Deanna Spradling Carlson in 2008 while square dancing and have been together ever since.

He cared and loved for his three children Kelly, Pamala, and Samuel Jacob along with his stepchildren John and Clint.

Gary’s favorite role was that as a grandparent. He treasured his time with his grandkids and loved being their Papa, never failing to send a birthday card or celebrate their accomplishments.

Gary was a dedicated worker throughout his life valuing his attendance and strong relationships with his coworkers that have developed into long and lasting friendships.

Everyone who knew Gary knew how much he loved to square dance, go camping, fish, and baking treats. Traveling for square dance events became an annual tradition while going to different locations such as Fish Lake in his camp trailer with his favorite dancing partner, Deanna. Gary always took the time each year to create delightful treats and candies that he would share with his family and friends, they were always delicious and made with extra love.

Gary will always be remembered for his jovial personality and the ability to connect with everyone through his stories. We couldn’t have asked for a better son, sibling, spouse, father, & papa and will miss him every day. His memory will live on in the hearts of all those who loved him.

Gary was preceded in death by his father Al Carlson, Sisters Nancy Carlson & Karen Kilpatrick, and is survived by his wife Deanna Carlson, Mother Joan Carlson, Siblings Oscar(Dewena) Carlson, Chris(Dave) Rankin, Norman Carlson, Margaret(Kerry) Graser, children John(Val) Spradling, Clint Spradling, Kelly(Travis) Larsen, Pamala(Ryan) Oliphant, Samuel Jacob Carlson, and his grandchildren Tai Spradling, Ryan Spradling, Loreli Garland, Lily Smith, Owen Larsen, Ramsey Oliphant and great grandson Logan Spradling along with countless family and friends.

A viewing will be held Thursday, September 5, 2024, 6:00-8:00 pm at Valley View Memorial Park & Funeral Home 4335 W 4100 S West Valley City, UT 84120; and the funeral services on Friday September 6, 2024, 12:00 noon, with a viewing prior from 11:00 – 11:45 at Valley View Memorial Park & Funeral Home 4335 W 4100 S West Valley City, UT 84120.