Obituaries
Debra Janet Elliott Twitchell
With heavy hearts, our family shares that our beloved mother, Debra Janet Elliott Twitchell, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 8, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family, just one week before her 68th birthday.
Debra was born on March 15, 1958, and spent much of her life in Utah. Though she was the only child of her biological parents, she grew up surrounded by a large blended family and shared her life with many brothers and sisters who became an important part of her life. She attended school in Spanish Fork, Provo, Richfield, and Grand Junction before graduating from Provo High School in 1976 during the bicentennial year of the United States.
From a young age, Debra loved music and played the clarinet throughout junior high and high school in symphonic band, marching band, and orchestra. Music brought her great joy and even helped strengthen her breathing as she dealt with respiratory challenges. Later in life, she especially enjoyed chaperoning with Keven on Scott’s orchestra and choir tours to California. During those trips they visited Disneyland in Anaheim, San Diego, and the California coast—experiences that became cherished family memories.
After graduating, Debra attended Utah Technical College (now Utah Valley University), where she earned a certificate in Early Childhood Education. She worked as a teacher’s aide in the Provo School District, helping teachers prepare lessons and supporting young students in the classroom.
Debra had a strong testimony of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. In 1983 she served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Nashville Tennessee Mission from 1983 to 1985. Her mission strengthened the faith that guided her throughout her life.
After returning home, Debra began a long and dedicated career at the Utah State Developmental Center, where she worked for more than twenty years caring for individuals with developmental disabilities. She approached this work with patience, compassion, and genuine love for the people she served.
In 1990, while working at the Utah Training School, Debra met Keven Twitchell. They were married on November 28, 1990, at the Provo home of her parents. Their marriage was later solemnized and sealed for time and all eternity in the Jordan River Temple on July 11, 1992. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and service and shared more than thirty-five years of marriage as devoted partners. One of the great joys of their lives was seeing their children grow in faith, and they were especially thrilled to send two of their children on missions.
Debra was a deeply devoted mother. She attended countless sports games, supported her children in their interests, and was always present when her family needed her. Friends of her children were never just visitors in the home—Debra welcomed them warmly and often treated them as part of the family.
Debra had a deep love for children and, together with Keven, spent many years participating in foster care. They first became involved in foster care to help care for their nephew, Alan Nielson, because it meant a great deal to them to keep him close to the family. Through that experience, they opened their home to many other children in foster need, providing stability, kindness, and guidance to young people who needed love and support.
One of Debra’s greatest joys was camping and spending time outdoors with her family. She loved the mountains and often said the fresh air helped her breathe better. Over the years the family shared many camping trips and adventures together, including trips to Yellowstone, Moon Lake, Simpson Springs, Dutchman Mine, American Fork Canyon, and fishing and camping trips in the Wellsville Mountains. Many of these trips became large family gatherings that included her nieces and nephews, and Debra loved making camping a true family event where everyone could spend time together outdoors. The family also enjoyed vacations to Disneyland, the California coast, Yosemite, and the redwood forests.
Her final camping trip was in August 2024, when the family camped together in American Fork Canyon. Being able to cook once again with her beloved Dutch oven and spend time outdoors with her family meant a great deal to her.
Debra also enjoyed needlepoint and quilting and had a deep appreciation for handmade quilts and the care that went into creating them.
Debra had a special love for her grandparents, Myrvin Wade Dudley and Myrtle Ester Dudley, who played an important role in her life. She often spoke with gratitude for the love, guidance, and stability they provided.
In September 2025, Debra learned she was experiencing kidney failure related to complications from long-term Type 2 diabetes. She faced the news with courage and continued to spend meaningful time with her family. On February 24, 2026, she and Keven met with her kidney specialist and learned that her kidneys were functioning at only 11 percent, and the family began preparing for the difficult days ahead. During the final weeks of her life, Debra also suffered a detached retina and lost her sight, yet she faced these challenges with the same quiet strength, faith, and love that defined her life.
Debra was preceded in death by her father Burt Arnold Elliott, her mother Myrtle Jean Dudley Hutchings, her stepfather Von Hutchings, her brother Craig Hutchings, and her beloved grandparents Myrvin Wade Dudley and Myrtle Ester Dudley. Her family takes comfort in the belief that she has now been joyfully reunited with those loved ones who welcomed her home.
She is survived by her devoted husband Keven Twitchell; her children Jay Patterson, Jeffery Twitchell, Scott Twitchell, Deven Twitchell, and Derek Twitchell; her grandchildren Kimberly, Aubriella, and Dorothy; her stepmother Leah Hone Elliott; and her many sisters Sabrina Haycock, Sheryl Sissler, Katrina Barney, Kristine Coffman, Robin Sass, Rochelle Hutchings, Rolonda Johnson LeFevre, Christine Elliott-Corbett, Connie Becker, Cynthia Carter, and Brenda Bartholomew; along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who loved her deeply.
Debra’s life was one of faith, resilience, compassion, and devotion to family. She opened her home and heart to many and will be remembered for her kindness, her testimony of Jesus Christ, her love of the outdoors, and the many lives she touched.
She will be deeply missed by her husband, her children and grandchildren, her many sisters, and all who knew and loved her.
Viewing
Friday, March 20, 2026
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Anderson & Sons Mortuary
49 East 100 North
American Fork, Utah 84003
Funeral Service
Saturday, March 21, 2026
Anderson & Sons Mortuary
49 East 100 North
American Fork, Utah 84003
9:20 AM – 9:45 AM — Close Family
9:45 AM – 10:45 AM — Open Casket Viewing
10:45 AM – 11:00 AM — Family Prayer
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM — Funeral Services
Graveside Service
12:30 PM – 1:00 PM
American Fork Cemetery
26 West 600 North Street
American Fork, Utah 84003
Luncheon
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
455 East 300 North
American Fork, Utah 84003
Obituaries
William (Bill) Rolland Pulley
William (Bill) Rolland Pulley, age 82, of American Fork, Utah, passed away peacefully
surrounded by family on March 7, 2026. He was born on September 29, 1943, and lived
a life marked by hard work, dedication to family, and a love for the outdoors.
Bill spent his early years working as an auto body technician at Gene Harvey Chevrolet.
He later worked as a painter and a toxic chemical handler at Tooele Army Depot, and
later EG&G. Known for his skill and generosity, he painted and repaired countless
vehicles for family members and friends over the years. He took pride in his craft and
was always willing to lend a helping hand to those who needed it, mostly to his children,
who needed it a lot.
He was also incredibly handy and took great pride in working on his home of 58 years,
completing multiple additions and improvements over the decades. Bill was always
there to help his children with their own homes as well—whether it was fixing,
remodeling, or tackling whatever project needed to be done. If something needed to be
repaired, he was the one everyone called.
Outside of work, Bill enjoyed spending time in nature. He loved hunting and fishing and
had a special interest in metal detecting, always hopeful of uncovering a hidden piece of
treasure. These hobbies brought him many peaceful hours, and time shared with loved
ones.
William was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His
faith was an important part of his life and guided the way he cared for his family and
community.
He is preceded in death by his parents William T. and Wanda Pulley and his sister
Jeanette. He is survived by his loving wife, Tana Pulley; his sons, Clint Pulley, Kevin
Pulley, and Greg Pulley; and nine cherished grandchildren. He will be remembered for
his quiet strength, generosity, and the love he had for his family.
Funeral services will be held at Anderson & Son’s Mortuary in American Fork, Utah, on
Monday, March 16 th at 11:00 am.
William will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.
Obituaries
Karma Lee Poulson Swain
Karma Lee Poulson Swain—beloved daughter of Leo and Virginia Poulson, sister of Lynn and Charlotte, eternal companion and sweetheart of Keith Swain, special educator of hundreds, best friend to all, and our precious mother—peacefully passed from this life on Tuesday morning, March 10, 2026.
Karma was born February 23, 1940, in Provo, Utah. Though the world was heavy with the suffering of World War II, she always described her childhood in nearby Orem as joyful and idyllic—everything a 1940s and ’50s childhood should be. She grew up in the historic home her grandfather, Otto Poulson, built on Orem’s State Street in 1912, a large and lively house that became something of a landmark in the young town. It contained four small apartments, some of the first indoor plumbing in Orem, and eventually one of the first indoor swimming pools in the city. The Poulson home was always full of activity, laughter, and friends, and Karma often joked that it became “the party house” of the neighborhood.
Next door stood the newly built SCERA Theater, where she and her friends regularly went after school to watch the latest movie serials. Her childhood was filled with roller skating, strawberry picking, neighborhood adventures, and endless time with friends and cousins—but above all else she loved softball. Softball was her life. She graduated from the newly built Orem High School in 1958 and attended Brigham Young University and Utah State University.
On June 29, 1961, she married the love of her life, Keith Swain. Their early married years took them to the West Coast as Keith pursued a career and graduate education. They began their family in Logan, Utah, then moved to Crescent City, CA, Corvallis, OR, and Puyallup, WA before eventually returning to Utah, settling first in Orem and later in American Fork where their lively household grew to include seven children.
Building a home and raising their children became Mom and Dad’s greatest joy. While Dad worked long hours in the garden after work and spent weekends laying brick, Mom managed the bustling household and taught her children the values of work, learning, and service. Under her guidance they practiced the art of weeding, baking, bottling fruit, sewing, painting, repairing, scrubbing, vacuuming, studying, and helping neighbors. In the fall, while Dad took the boys hunting, Mom stayed home praying for their safety. Looking back, it might sound like we grew up in the 1800s—and sometimes we thought so too.
Even while raising seven children, Karma devoted herself to education and service, which included returning to BYU to finish her degree in special education and graduate with her oldest son. She taught for 20 years as a special educator in various settings, including elementary school, high school, and the young mother’s high school. Most of her years were spent at Forbes Elementary. She saw divinity and brilliance in her students and became their tireless advocate, ensuring opportunities, respect, and confidence they weren’t previously afforded. As a literacy specialist, she taught them to read. More importantly and mostly through her example, she taught them to love and serve and connect. Recognized as one of the top special educators in the state, Karma trained other teachers how to do the same. Her kindness and persistence blessed countless young students and their families, and propelled special education out of the shadows and into the light, literally moving her programs out of satellite trailers and into the buildings, and from mere breadcrumbs to a seat at the table. Many of her students have sought her out as adults, thanking her for the life she gave them.
The core of her life was defined by her deep testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ and devoted service in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She served faithfully in many callings, teaching cub scouts how to tie knots and young women to pitch tents, she led women in learning and serving and with the same energy she gave her students at school. She taught so many by her example to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ. Later in life she and Keith continued their lifelong pattern of service together, including serving three missions. They loved serving in the addiction recovery mission, at Deseret Industries, and as temple workers at the Mount Timpanogos Temple.
Mom had a remarkable gift for friendship. She made people feel welcome wherever she went, and her home was often filled with neighbors, friends, and family. People naturally gathered around her warmth, humor, and steady faith. Her life is a quiet testimony of faith in Jesus Christ and of the joy that comes from building a home centered on love, service, and devotion to family.
Karma is survived by her seven children and their spouses: Monte (Shannon) Swain, Scott (Leann) Swain, Kalene (Bryan) Mathews, Trent (Janette) Swain, JaNae (Darin) Hakes, Eric (Stacie) Swain, and Megan (Aaron) Coxson. She was welcomed into eternity by her beloved husband Keith and by their son, Jefferson Keith Swain. Keith and Karma are the proud grandparents of 37 wonderful grandchildren and 26 (approaching 29) miraculous great-grandchildren.
The family expresses their deepest gratitude to Anderson and Sons Mortuary for their kindness in honoring both our parents with dignity, and to Canyon Home Care & Hospice, especially Nicole Small, whose compassion and Christlike care brought comfort to Mom and Dad in their final days.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the American Fork East Stake Center (825 East 500 North, American Fork, Utah). A viewing will be held Friday evening, March 13, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at the same location. A second viewing will precede the funeral on Saturday from 9:30–10:30 a.m. Interment will be in the American Fork Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a local Latter-day Saint ward humanitarian fund.
Obituaries
Carol Louise Mathis
Carol delighted in her children and grandchildren above all, but found joy in simple pleasures such as the sunset over the mountains, wading in a cold creek, collecting pretty rocks, and watching her American flag wave from her balcony. Her generosity extended well beyond material things, evidenced in her spirit of service, sacrifice, and love for her family. She loved the Lord and spent many hours reading her Bible and praying.
Carol Louise Mathis, 76, of Pleasant Grove, UT, died on February 27, 2026.
She was born in Paris, Tennessee in 1949 to Adrian O’Dell and Mary Murphy Mathis as the first of five children, including herself, Adrian O’Dell Jr., Emily Ann, Lynn Marie, and Kay Gwen. The spirits of service and sacrifice were instilled in Carol from an early age by her father, who refused the stereotypes of segregation in the South and reached across racial divides to serve those less fortunate. Carol’s childhood was full of delight in spending time with her grandparents, outdoor activities, and riding horses with her siblings.
Carol was preceded in death by her father, Adrian O’Dell Mathis, her mother, Mary Murphy Mathis, and her sister, Emily Mathis Baker. She is survived by her brother, Adrian Mathis, her sister, Lynn (Chuck) Watts, and her sister Kay (Randy) Wolter; and her daughter, Vanessa (David) Gaisford, and their children, David Jr., Madeline, and Hailey Gaisford; her daughter, Leyla (Patrick) Moody; and her daughter, Lynsi (Douglas) Keeble and their children, Kathryn, Elizabeth, Clyde, and Ann Keeble; and former husband, Michael Robert Smith.
Carol treasured her time with her grandchildren going to football games, baking over FaceTime, crafting, shopping, arranging flowers, and frequently sending gifts. Her beautiful heart allowed her to tell the truth with great love. She had a gift for creating a beautiful home, occasion, or craft and loved to share that with other people, creating a lot of special memories. Carol kept her childlike wonder and joy for life. Her love of the outdoors, nature’s beauty, and playfulness stayed with her. Carol will always be remembered for the joyful light in her eyes, the comfort she provided, and her fierce love for her family. We’ll always imagine hearing her say, “I’m hugging you with my heart,” one more time. We could not have asked for a better Mom.
Obituaries
Carol Devitt Thomas
Carol Devitt Thomas, 78, of American Fork, Utah, returned home to her Heavenly Father on February 13th after a life beautifully lived, deeply loved, and devoted to family and faith.
A woman of extraordinary kindness, creativity, and quiet strength, Carol touched every life she entered with warmth, laughter, and a down‑to‑earth love that made people feel seen, safe, and cared for. She had a gift for making ordinary moments feel meaningful,whether through a haircut, a meal, a sketch, or a simple but sincere conversation.
Carol was born on January 22, 1948, at the old hospital on Main Street in American Fork, Utah, to Willard and Beth Devitt. She grew up on King Street as the fourth of nine children: Sharon, Brent, Kathy, Carol, Mike, Rebecca, Russ, Clint, and Christine. Life in a bustling home full of noise, stories, and sibling adventures shaped her lifelong love of people and her natural gift for connection.Carol graduated from American Fork High School in 1966, where she was a cheerleader, wrote her own column “Doodling With Devitt” for the school paper, and was a faithful member of the pep club. She later earned a scholarship to Continental Beauty School in Salt Lake City.
She went on to work as a hairstylist for 20 years, beginning at Erma’s Beauty Salon. In1974, she opened her own basement salon, where countless friends, neighbors, and family members sat in her chair for far more than just a trim. They came for her jokes,her advice, her listening ear, and her knack for making everyone feel at home. Many became lifelong friends, and she was honored to do the hair of more than a few of them for the last time, treating that final act with reverence, love, and care.
Carol married Ernest (“Ernie”) Thomas in American Fork in 1966, and they were later sealed in the Provo Utah Temple in 1974. Together they built a life centered on love,hard work, faith, and family. Their marriage was a partnership of quiet devotion—years of shared sacrifice, inside jokes, late‑night talks, and mutual support through both ordinary days and heavy seasons. Ernie was her steady companion and protector; she was his soft place to land and his constant encourager. They faced every joy and trial side by side, including her long illness, with loyalty and tenderness.
For 35 years, Carol faced Parkinson’s disease with courage, patience, and grace. The illness changed her body, but it never dimmed her spirit, her sense of humor, or her love for others. In many ways, her long battle became one more testament to her strength:she endured with faith, dignity, and a determination to keep loving and showing up for her family as much as she possibly could.
She was the devoted mother of Angie, Jeff, Sue, Jill, Tracee, and James, and the proud grandmother of 21 grandchildren and 16 great‑grandchildren. Nothing made her happier than a house (or backyard) full of family. She especially loved backyard wiffle ball games with her grandkids. Cheering, laughing, and pretending not to keep score while she soaked in every minute with the children she adored. Family get‑togethers were her favorite place to be, and she worked hard to make sure there was always room, always food, and always love for anyone who walked through the door.
Carol was the ultimate multitasker. She could balance a home, raise a family, run a business, and still find time to cook, sketch, talk, laugh, serve in her church callings, and keep everyone else in line. A sizable task, surely, but Carol took it all in stride and did so with a smile on her face and love in her heart.
A gifted artist, she often expressed her love through her sketches. One of her tender ministries was drawing portraits for families who had lost loved ones, capturing their faces with care and offering comfort in pencil and paper when words were not enough.It was another way she quietly carried others’ burdens.
A faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‑day Saints, Carol lived her beliefs quietly but powerfully. She embodied Christlike love in the way she served her family, ministered to neighbors, and created a home where everyone felt welcome. She believed deeply in eternal families and lived in a way that made heaven feel close.
Carol leaves behind a legacy of compassion, humor, creativity, and devotion. Her life reminds us that the things that matter most are the people we love, the memories we make, and the kindness we show along the way. Those who knew her will carry her influence in the way they gather their families, serve quietly, laugh easily, and choose to love even when it’s hard.
As we celebrate Carol’s life, her funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 21,2026, at 11:00 AM in the American Fork 26th Ward, located at 975 North 60 East. A viewing will take place the evening prior, on Friday from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, at Anderson & Sons Mortuary, 49 East 100 North, and again on Saturday from 9:45 to 10:45 AM at the church before the services. She will find her final resting place in the American Fork Cemetery.
The family would like to give a special thanks to those who cared for her in her final days, Brook – RN, Kami – CNA, and the care providers at River Meadows Assisted Living Facility.
Obituaries
Mary Elizabeth Ballard
We are saddened to announce the passing of Mary “Meg” Ballard on January 30, 2026. The daughter of Thomas Griffiths and Mary Griffiths (Robinson), Meg was born in Salt Lake City, Utah on May 5, 1955. She spent the majority of her life in American Fork, Utah, and graduated from American Fork High. She then attended University of Utah, before leaving to pursue her calling as a special education teacher.
Meg was a committed member of the LDS church and loved people. Aside from the church, she also enjoyed gardening and baking. Her banana bread and dinner rolls were some of her most sought after recipes. Above all else, Meg was most passionate about her beloved chihuahua, Tucker, who was her loyal companion for nearly 15 years.
In 2017, Meg relocated to the Annapolis, MD area where she enjoyed exploring the sights of Washington DC in her free time and spending time with both her family and friends. Meg became like a second mother and grandmother to many in the area was deeply loved in the community. During these years, Meg worked as a bank teller where she adored her colleagues and loved getting to know all her customers.
Meg is survived by her son, Sean Ballard, and daughter-in-law, Anna Glosemeyer.
Memorial services will be held on February 12, 2026 at the American Fork 4th Ward LDS Church, located at 455 East 300 North, American Fork Utah. Visitation will begin at 9:45 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m.
An additional celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on February 20th, 2026 at the Broadneck Ward LDS Church, located at 1875 Ritchie Highway in Annapolis, MD.In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the National Kidney Foundation in Meg’s name.
Obituaries
Bruce George Storrs
Dr. Bruce George Storrs, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and dedicated Hematopathologist, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2026 in Seattle at the age of 73. He was born on October 28, 1952, in American Fork, Utah, to George Harold Storrs and Lena Baum Storrs. He devoted his life to his family, his medical profession, and his endless curiosity about the world, manifested in his travels and his love of learning. For him, there was no challenge which could not be overcome, no mystery which could not be solved, through meticulous research and planning. His systematic, numerical approach to life’s challenges belied a sentimental, deeply humane outlook.
Bruce graduated from American Fork High School and studied chemistry at the University of Utah and BYU. Following a brief stint in the semiconductor industry, he obtained an MD from Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. Having graduated from medical school on an ROTC scholarship, he served as a physician in the U.S. Army Medical Corps, first in Tacoma, Washington where he completed a Pathology Residency, and then in Stuttgart, Germany where he was the Director of Pathology. His service as an Army doctor marked the beginning of a career dedicated to the care and healing of others. After leaving the Army, he completed a fellowship in Hematopathology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. He then entered private practice at Good Samaritan Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he left an indelible mark over the course of 30 years. His dedication to his patients shone through every aspect of his work, earning him the deep respect and trust of his peers. In recognition of his accomplishments and decades of service to the community, he received a commission as a Kentucky Colonel from the Governor, the highest honor bestowed by the Commonwealth.
A regular at the paddock rail at Keeneland Race Course in Lexington and at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Bruce had a passion for thoroughbred racing. For him, the day was not about gambling but rather about quietly admiring the horses as they circled the Walking Ring. He delighted in the technical challenges of fly fishing. His love for these things was clearly rooted in his boyhood working alongside his father on the family farm. He was born on his father’s 40th birthday, and his father, George, was manifestly delighted at his arrival. He saw to it that Bruce always had the best of everything, including a treasured Leica camera. This camera led to Bruce becoming the yearbook photographer, planted the seed for his love of nature photography, and fostered the remarkable dexterity with which he manipulated the microscope. Bruce liked books and movies about intelligent countryside veterinarians and physicians like All Creatures Great and Small and Doc Martin. He appreciated the subtlety of English composers like Ralph Vaughan Williams. He was an early adopter of personal computers, and his researches of various topics typically resulted in a mountain of printouts of handcrafted numerical data, meticulously organized and rendered in 6-point font.
Bruce is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 52 years, Colleen McTague Storrs of Bainbridge Island, Washington; his children Judd McTague (Anne) Storrs of Dublin, Ohio, Carl Wayne Storrs McTague of Brookline, Massachusetts, and Molly Elizabeth Storrs (Per) Jansen of Bainbridge Island; his adoring grandchildren, Elizabeth “Libby”, Emma, Julia, and Lillian “Duky”; and his sister DeLene. He was preceded in death by his parents, George Harold and Lena Baum Storrs, and his sister Kay.
Please join friends and family for a viewing on February 7, 2026, at 9:45 am at Anderson & Sons Mortuary (49 E 100 N, American Fork) ahead of a Celebration of Life at 11:00 am. Interment will be at 12:15 pm at American Fork Cemetery. All are invited for light refreshments at approximately 1:00 pm at the American Fork 4th Ward Church (455 E 300 N), where we will continue to share memories of Bruce’s life. Bruce will be deeply missed and forever cherished in the hearts of those he touched.
Obituaries
Kenneth “Kirk” Parkinson
On December 28, 2025, our beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, Kirk Parkinson passed away surrounded by his family after a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Kirk was born in St. George, Utah to Kenneth Joseph Parkinson and Dona Elaine Kirkham. He held a deep love for his home and the breathtaking deserts of Southern Utah. He has always cherished the many lifelong friendships formed in his youth.
Kirk graduated from Dixie College in St. George where his studies included both art and journalism. He later attended the University of Utah, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Business/Marketing and a Master’s Degree in Communication. Upon earning his degree, he pursued journalism, temporarily setting aside his passion for painting, which he developed a love and talent for in his youth.
He met and married Gwen and raised a fun and loving family. His hard work provided many wonderful opportunities for their family. Kirk’s children were his greatest treasures.
After several newspaper positions in California, Nevada and Utah, Kirk became publisher of the Provo Daily Herald in 1986. He managed the Herald for 20 years, during which he was actively involved in community affairs and served as president of the Utah Press Association and the Provo Rotary Club.
After retiring from the publishing industry in 2007, Kirk returned to his artistic roots. He has enjoyed the opportunity to travel the West and paint, both outdoors and in the studio. Kirk received various tributes, and his art is recognized both regionally and nationally as a colorful representation of the West’s beautiful scenery, particularly Southern Utah.
He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and served in many capacities. His favorite calling was serving as a counselor in a BYU Singles Student Ward while maintaining his “Ute” status.
As a husband, father and grandfather, Kirk was best known as “Papa K”. He cherished being a father and grandfather greatly and was delighted with each new member of his family. He was able to spend time with each of his treasured grandchildren and they dearly loved him.
Kirk loved to hunt, camp, four-wheel and fish. He loved the outdoors and taught his children to love the outdoors as well by including them in all of his activities. He was a wonderful husband and an exceptional father. He was well read and the one we all went to for any knowledge, also affectionately known as a “sports trivia statistician” all by memory. We will miss his teachings, humor, unconditional love and steady influence in our lives.
Kirk is survived by his wife, Gwen; his sons, Jason (Kate) and Cole (Carla) and six grandchildren: Grey, Collins, Stella, Kai, Alta and Sloane. He is also survived by two sisters: Donalu (Jeff) O’Neil and Sara Kutz. Kirk was preceded in death by his special “Pally Pal” as he often called his daughter, Terra. We know she was first to greet him on the other side and enjoyed going for a “beverage” as they often did. He was never the same without her.
Kirk was also preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Tim.
A Viewing and visitation will be held on Sunday, January 11, 2026, 5:00 to 7:00 pm at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Mapleton 7th Ward, 1580 N Main Street, Mapleton, Utah. Interment will take place in the Mapleton Cemetery.
Obituaries
Cheri Laurel Peterson Theurer
Cheri Laurel Peterson Theurer, 90, passed away on January 3, 2026, in Orem, UT. Born in American Fork, UT, on August 8, 1935, Cheri’s greatest joy was her husband, Clark Brent Theurer, and her children, Cindy, Mike, Jeff, and Alan. Cheri was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who cherished faith, family, service, and her pioneer heritage. Viewing is 10:30-11:30 am and services are at Noon on January 13th at 400 East 400 North, Orem, UT.
Obituaries
John Bradley Brown
On November 17, 2025, John Bradley Brown passed away at the SLC, Utah Veterans Hospital from a chronic illness. John was born on April 01, 1952, in American Fork, Utah the fourth child of Susanah Gout Brown, and Cyrus Edward Brown.
In his youth he loved going fishing with his father, ice skating on Utah Lake, sleigh riding pulled by our horse Bess, horseback riding, and hunting with his father and brothers . John and his brother Pete spent many enjoyable hours riding their horses in American Fork Canyon, enjoying the serene beauty of the Wasatch Range, on the Timpanogos Mtn, Aspen Grove, Timpooneke trail, and Cascade Springs areas. John’s spent countless hours in American Fork Canyon with his dogs, friends, and brothers hiking and fishing at the Tibble Fork Reservoir.
John was a good student; he was an avid reader and very knowledgeable in many subjects. He was on the American Fork, (Caveman) Football team He played the clarinet in the band, and he and his friends were involved in many of the school activities. After High School graduation John joined the Marine Corps and was stationed at Camp Pendelton. Thereafter he continued throughout his life to show respect, love, and devotion for his beloved homeland. After serving John worked in the construction field.
John loved his Gun Dogs, German Shorthaired and Wirehaired Pointers. His beloved “Reb” was the beginning of his Bird Dog training and Hunting Adventures. John had a deep knowledge of Canine behavior, focusing on training his dogs to hunt.
John was a man of fashion and known for his impeccable sense of style wearing up scaled clothing, and many top brand Western fashionable boots.
He was preceded in death by his Father (Cyrus E. Brown), his mother (Susannah Gout Brown), his brothers (David Brown) and (Peter Brown). John is survived by his Sister (Susan Swapp-Enoch) and brothers (Joe Brown, Grand Junction, Co), and Tyler Brown (Palisade, Co), and many nephews and nieces.
We Love You John, “Untill We Meet Again”.
A Memorial Grave site service will be held at the American Fork Cemetery Saturday January 17, 2026 at 11:00 AM.
Obituaries
Hayley Jo Quinn
April 22, 1975 – August 8, 2025
Hayley Jo Quinn, born on April 22, 1975, in American Fork, passed away at the young age of 50 on August 8, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and beauty. Hayley had a deep passion for all things living, plants and animals alike, and saw the world with a sense of wonder and appreciation that was uniquely her own. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and she loved to inspire others to appreciate the beauty in the world.
Hayley was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who loved fiercely and gave her whole heart to those around her. She is survived by her loving husband, Daniel Quinn; her children, Shelbie (Kevin) Strange, Colby (Becca) Webb, and Kagen Quinn; and her cherished grandsons, Jude and Grayson Strange. She also leaves behind her parents, Gaylene and Mike Neil, and siblings Lynsey Lake and Rusty Neil. She is preceded in death by her sister, McKensey Neil, whose memory she cherished deeply.
Known for her green thumb, Hayley could make anything grow and flourish. Her home and garden reflected her creativity, filled with vibrant plants, collected trinkets, and beautiful stones that she loved to gather. She had a fiery and loving nature, always quick to smile or laugh, and brought light to every room she entered.
Her family would often joke that she was the most popular person they knew. She had the most magnetic energy and could initiate a genuine conversation with anyone she met. She made new friends everywhere she went and was so loving towards and accepting of everyone she came to know.
Holidays were especially meaningful to Hayley — Halloween was her favorite, and she never missed a chance to go above and beyond to make each celebration magical for her family. Her love, her joy for life, and her ability to find beauty in the smallest things will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
A celebration of life will be held by the family to honor Hayley’s life.
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