John Gary Petersen

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of John Gary Petersen, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Surrounded by his loving family, Gary left this world on December 27, 2023, at his home in North Salt Lake City, UT.

Gary was born on March 13, 1938, in Centerville, Utah, in his grandmother's home. The cherished only child of John William Petersen and Emily May Youngberg, Gary's journey through life was marked by love, commitment, and a deep sense of duty.

On May 14, 1959, Gary married the love of his life and best friend, Charles Ann Talley. Their union was solemnized in the Salt Lake Temple on December 6, 1963. Gary’s early years included attending Bountiful and Davis High Schools, and in 1955, he joined the United States Air Force 419 Fighter Wing Reserve. Despite his military service, he managed to graduate from LDS Business College, a testament to his dedication and hard work. Gary served in the USAF for an admirable thirty-three years.

Beyond his professional achievements, Gary found joy in life's simple pleasures. He was a passionate bowler, fisherman, occasional golfer, and an avid hunter, earning several trophies in trap shooting. Upon retirement, Gary and Ann dedicated their time to service, embarking on their first mission in 1994 for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Durban, South Africa, where they served the French-speaking community with distinction. In 2013, they continued their mission work, serving in the Tacoma Washington Military Relations Mission.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife Charles Ann Petersen of North Salt Lake, Utah, and their children: Gary Lynn (Sherri) Petersen, Becky (Tracy) Haag, John David (Holly) Petersen, and Emily Petersen (Eric) Christensen. He is also, remembered by his 14 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Gary was preceded in death by his granddaughter Chelsea Petersen and his parents.

A viewing to celebrate Gary's life will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 954 West 1100 North, North Salt Lake, UT, on Friday, January 5, 2023, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with a short viewing on Saturday, January 6, 2023, from 9:30 AM to 10:40 AM. The funeral service will take place at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Saturday, January 6, 2023, at 11:00 AM. Gary will be laid to rest following the service at Memorial Lake View Mortuary & Cemetery, located at 1640 Lakeview Drive, Bountiful, UT.

John Gary Petersen will be dearly missed, and his legacy of love, service, and dedication will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in eternal peace.