Gary Dee Hjorth

Gary D. Hjorth of Payson and Springville, Utah passed away unexpectedly on 22nd April 2020 at the age of 69. His passing is likely related to chronic conditions Gary had been living with over the years.

Gary was born on 20th October, 1950 to Paul Hjorth and Mamie McAllister. He grew up in Springville with his parents and five brothers, Alan, Duane, Lynn, Arden and Lee. He also loved spending summers in Panguitch working the ranch with his cousins, aunts and uncles. As a young man he served an LDS mission in Chile, and later met and married the love of his life, Linda Veech, on the 7th November, 1975. Gary served the city of Springville as a police officer for 20 years, and then embraced a change of pace in information technology training and then as a security guard at the Utah Valley and Orem Community Hospitals where he is remembered fondly by colleagues and hospital staff. Gary also served in the bishopric in his ward for 15 years, and as a baptistry director at the Provo Temple.

Gary was well-known for telling stories about his family and his travel adventures to anyone willing to listen. He developed a passion for Rugby League and baking treats with his grandchildren, and enjoyed Hatch family reunions every year at the family ranch in Panguitch.

Gary is survived by his wife Linda, his 7 children: Ginger(Dave), Heidi(Stacey), Tiffany(Sam), Jimmy(Rebecca), Mac(Alissa), Kendra(Shiloh), and Dustin(Kelsey), 18 grandchildren, 4 great grand-children, several ‘adopted’ children who lived with the family over the years, and a multitude of others who consider Gary family and friend.

Gary’s last great adventure with Linda was to move to the ‘warmth’ of St George. They enjoyed two weeks together in that community. Without her companion to enjoy the adventure, Linda has decided to move back to her Utah Valley community, but is currently without a permanent address. In lieu of flowers, she invites you to do a kindness for a neighbor to honor Gary’s memory. Condolences, along with your memories of Gary, may be sent to Linda in care of Wheeler Mortuary.

Due to concerns over the guidelines for social distancing regarding Covid-19, private family services will be held.