Gary George Brown

Gary George Brown passed away peacefully on June 8th at the age of 87, reunited with the love of his life, LaDean, who preceded him in death just 78 days earlier. Their love story spanned decades, and in the end, he truly died of a broken heart.

Born on December 9, 1938, in Murray, Utah, to George Waldemar and Myrtle Catherine Brown. Gary spent his childhood exploring downtown Salt Lake City, roaming the nearby foothills, and developing a lifelong curiosity about the world around him. He graduated from West High School and displayed an early talent for art, even considering opening an art studio with his brother, Richard.

As a young man, he enjoyed cruising State Street in his beloved 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air, where he met LaDean. They were married on June 17, 1959, in Salt Lake City and were later sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple on September 4, 1970. In the summer of 2010, he and his beloved wife served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Martin’s Cove, Wyoming.

Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and adventure. Sundays often found him behind the wheel, taking his family on long drives through Utah's backroads. Along the way, he would point out geological formations, historical landmarks, and anything else he found interesting. He had a gift for sharing his enthusiasm and helping others see the beauty in the world around them.

He possessed an extraordinary memory for automobiles and could tell you the make, model, and year of every vehicle he ever owned. His love of cars remained with him throughout his life.

Gary was a man who never met a stranger. He waved to everyone, knew his postal carrier by name, and made friends wherever he went. His warmth, kindness, and genuine interest in others left a lasting impression on all who crossed his path.

He loved gardening and faithfully planted tomatoes each spring, even when the task became difficult and impractical. He found joy in watching things grow and took pride in caring for his yard and garden.

His career reflected his love of travel and movement. He worked as a traveling salesman before joining Union Pacific Railroad as a conductor. He cherished his years on the railroad, especially the opportunity to experience the beauty of the western landscape, spot bald eagles, and witness the changing seasons from the rails.

He will be remembered for his kind nature, his curiosity, his friendly wave, and his ability to make everyone feel seen and valued. If you drove down his street, chances are you received a wave from him. If you stopped to talk, chances are you left as a friend.

Preceded in death by his sweet wife LaDean Brown; Parents, George W. and Myrtle Catherine Brown; brothers, Richard and Bill; and grandson, Tyler. Gary is survived by 4 children, Robert (Nannette) Brown, Rodney (Sally) Brown, Kristene (Alan) Rigdon, Noreen (Bill) Roeca; 10 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

An evening viewing will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2030 Chateau Ave, Salt Lake City, UT 84129, on June 16, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

A viewing prior to service will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2030 Chateau Ave, Salt Lake City, UT 84129, on June 17, 2026, from 10:00 am to 10:45 am, followed by the funeral service at the same location on June 17, 2026, at 11:00 am.

Services can be attended virtually at the link below:

https://zoom.us/j/95354986082?pwd=bymFAHva8ua5Xse0dyMbRGWfpMUXr4.1#success

Meeting ID: 953 5498 6082

Passcode: 893870

Interment will take place at Salt Lake City Cemetery, 200 N St E, Salt Lake City, UT 84103, following the services.