Kenneth Cristobal Gonzales

Kenneth Cristobal Gonzales, of Springville, passed away on Wednesday, June 4th, 2025. He was born August 23rd, 1954, in Provo, Utah, to Cristobal Augustine Gonzales and Betty Lou Beesley. He married the love of his life, LeeAnn Thorn, on August 19th, 1972.

Ken was raised in Springville, UT. He graduated from Springville High School and was a proud Red Devil. He started his career at Springville City Water Department and then went to Mountain Fuel (Questar) where he worked until his retirement at age 62. During his retirement, he and his wife moved to Lehi, UT, and were snowbirds in Quartzsite, AZ.

Ken found immense joy and solace in nature. He was an avid camper, spending countless hours under the open sky, often with a crackling campfire and the company of friends and family. His adventurous spirit truly came alive when riding side-by-sides, leading his friends along rugged trails and discovering hidden gems in the great outdoors. Whether he was patiently casting a line while fishing or embracing the challenge of hunting, he approached these pursuits with respect for nature and often a deep knowledge of the history of the area.

Beyond his outdoor passions, Ken was a natural leader. This leadership extended into all facets of his life, from professional endeavors to quietly giving alongside his friends and family. Although he never sought the spotlight, he naturally drew people in and became a trusted source his friends and family could rely on. He was also a craftsman, finding creative expression in the crafts of knife making, welding, tying flies for fly fishing, or working on cars—hobbies that showcased his dedication to precision and quality.

His love for his family was boundless, and he cherished every moment spent with them, creating lasting memories that will be treasured forever. He believed in giving back, and his willingness to serve others left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered.

Ken courageously battled colon cancer in 2004, achieving remission and enjoying many years of health. However, in February of this year, he was diagnosed with liver cancer, and after a short but valiant four-month battle, he passed away. He was an inspiration to all who were with him during this battle, showing strength and courage in the face of such a terrible disease. We give our profound thanks to all the doctors and medical professionals at IMC in Murray, UT, who cared for him and fought tirelessly by his side, and also to his wife and daughters and son-in-law who spent countless hours caring for him and serving him in the last months of his life.

Ken will be deeply missed by his wife of 52 years, LeeAnn; his two daughters and son-in-law, Brandy Sims of Las Vegas, and Lynzi and Virgil Hanson of Lehi; 8 grandkids: Emilee Sims (26), Bridger Blackett (24), Kit Sims (24), Paidyn Hanson (21), Rebecca Sims (21), Jacob Sims (19), Brady Blackett (17), McCoy Hanson (12); 3 brothers and 1 sister: Randy Gonzales (LynnAnn), Kathy Norton (Gayle), Ron Gonzales (Janice), Ed Gonzales; his extended family, and a wide circle of friends whose lives he touched with his generosity, warmth, and adventurous spirit. He leaves behind a legacy of love and a profound appreciation for life's simple, yet profound, joys.

Services will be held Saturday, June 14th, 2025. A viewing will be held from 1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m. at Wheeler Mortuary, located at 211 E. 200 S. Springville, UT 84663, and a graveside service at 3:00 p.m. at the Evergreen Cemetery, located at 1997 S. 400 E. Springville, UT 84663.

Condolences may be expressed to the family on this page.