Arthur Francis Fenstermaker

Arthur Francis Fenstermaker passed away peacefully on January 23, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Art was born on November 30, 1942, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Anna Virginia Christensen and Vern Arthur Fenstermaker. He grew up near Liberty Park in Salt Lake City, UT and was fortunate to live next door to his beloved Grandma and Grandpa Christensen. He often reminisced about eating dinner at home with his family, only to head next door for “second dinner” with his grandparents.

Sundays were spent at the Fenstermaker Family Farm in Sandy, Utah, where the extended family gathered for potluck dinners filled with laughter and love. As he got older, Art treasured summers at the farm with his cousins, creating memories of adventure and mischief that he would recount for years to come.

Art attended East High School in Salt Lake City and graduated in 1961. A proud football player for East, he loved to tell stories of how his team led the Leopards to near glory, almost winning the state championship. He was known for his quick wit and playful pranks, often teasing his teachers, classmates, and, most of all, his siblings. As the eldest of four, he perfected the art of mischief early on, but his siblings were quick studies and happily returned the favor as they grew older.

He continued playing football at the University of Utah, but his college years were cut short when he enlisted in the Army, serving as a helicopter mechanic in the Vietnam War. After three years of service, Art returned home and met Margaret Midgley—his best friend, true love, and lifelong partner. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising three amazing children who became the center of their world. Art radiated love to everyone around him. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for his family, friends, or even a stranger in need.

Art was a dedicated and hardworking man. For most of his career, he was a Union truck driver before becoming a Business Agent for the Teamsters Local 222 as a contract negotiator. A gifted negotiator, he took great pride in advocating for his fellow union members and was widely respected in the industry. Along the way, he made countless lifelong friends.

Art lived for adventure. He began working as a river guide in high school, navigating white-water rivers in Utah, Arizona, and Idaho, as well as exploring those in Canada and South America. In 1962, he earned the rare honor of having a waterfall named after him after being the first boatman to navigate a treacherous water fall on the Grijalva River in El Sumidero Canyon, Southern Mexico.

His love for travel continued throughout his life. He and Margaret explored many places and cultures, but their hearts found a second home in Alaska. In 1995, they discovered an old lodge, which became their home away from home. Summers were spent there, welcoming family and friends, and Art took great pride in teaching everyone how to fish for salmon. To commemorate their successes, he created a “wall of fish fame” at the lodge, proudly displaying photos of every visitor’s best catch.

Art found joy in bringing happiness to others. For many years, he donned the red suit and embodied the magic of Santa Claus. With a twinkle in his eye, he would say, “Well, why would I ever waste a white beard and a fat belly?” He and Margaret lovingly donated their time as Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Jubilee of Trees, Festival of Trees, and numerous schools and church parties. Whether in costume or simply as himself, Art had a way of lighting up every room, making everyone feel seen, valued, and loved. His kindness and generosity touched countless lives.

A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and an active member of the Sons of the Utah Pioneers, Art served in many callings, but his favorite was his time serving the residents of the Alta Ridge Care Center. His faith in his Heavenly Father and Savior, Jesus Christ, was strong and unwavering.

Above all, Art was a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud grandfather, a cherished sibling, and a loyal friend. He was deeply loved and will be missed beyond words. His kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love can never be replaced, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Though we say goodbye for now, we take comfort in knowing that families are forever and that we will be with him again.

Art is survived by his loving wife of 57 years: Margaret Ruth Midgley; siblings: Kathy Winnie, Maxine Rasmussen, Rob (Linda) Fenstermaker; children: Doug (Tristan) Fenstermaker, Jeff (DeAnne) Fenstermaker, Marsha (Scott) Wilson, grandchildren: Melanie (Cory) Christensen, Josh Fenstermaker, Alyssa (Scott) Pinkston, Amy (Gunnar) Wilson, Anna (Cameron) Brown, Anthony (Abigail) Wilson, and five great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his infant son, David Arthur.

Celebration of Life

Please join the family for a Celebration of Life held in Art’s honor on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 6:30 PM at 5235 South Wesley Road (1150 East). Casual attire is welcomed.

Please share any memories and pictures of Art at Art.Santa.Memories@gmail.com.