Gary Rowland

Gary Rowland passed away peacefully surrounded by his family who loved him dearly on Thursday May 8, 2025. He will be truly and deeply missed, not only for the love he gave, but for the calm, steady light he brought to the lives he touched. There is happiness in knowing of the wonderful and glorious reunion he is having on the other side with his sweet wife Kathleen and his daughter Lisa.

Gary was born on February 20, 1943, in Provo, Utah, to Margaret M. (Skinner) and Roy S. Rowland. He was the youngest of five siblings—three older sisters and one brother. Gary grew up in Orem, Utah, where he helped his parents tend their one-acre farm, cultivating raspberries, cherries, and peonies. As a youth, he enjoyed hunting—though he preferred the thrill of the chase to the task of cleaning the game he or his father brought home. He also raised and bred pigeons, often sharing fascinating and memorable stories about them. Gary remained in Utah throughout his life, staying close to the land and community he loved.

He was the cherished husband of Kathleen Larsen Rowland, his beloved Kae. High school sweethearts, Gary won her heart with his handsome smile and his fast car — the beginning of a lifelong love story. They were married and sealed in the Salt Lake Temple on August 14, 1961. Gary’s love and devotion to Kae ran deep and remained enduring. Together, they traveled the world, hand in hand, finding joy in shared adventures and quiet moments alike. The bond they shared was one of deep affection, unwavering loyalty, and true companionship — a love that endures beyond this life.

Professionally, Gary was a gifted mechanic and a well-respected businessman, known not only for his skill but for his unwavering honesty and integrity. His hands were often stained with grease, a testament to a lifetime of hard work, but his heart remained full of gentleness, quiet wisdom, and generosity. Gary built a reputation for being someone you could trust — both under the hood and in life.

Gary proudly served his country as a combat engineer in the 1457th Engineer Battalion of the Utah National Guard from 1961 through 1968. In the Army National Guard he served as a platoon sergeant and achieved the rank of Sergeant First Class.

Outside of work, he embraced adventure and connection. He loved teeing off on a challenging golf course with friends, carving through snowy trails on a snowmobile with his sons-in-law, exploring the backcountry on a four-wheeler, or baiting his hook in the beautiful lakes and streams. He was a talented woodworker, crafting beautiful pieces with care and precision.. Whether he was repairing an engine or sharing a laugh outdoors, Gary lived life to its fullest.

As a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Gary’s faith in Christ was a guiding light in every aspect of his life. He held an unwavering testimony of the gospel and served faithfully in numerous callings over the years, always with humility, dedication, and a desire to lift others. One of his greatest joys was serving as a temple worker in the Payson Utah Temple, where he found deep peace and purpose. There, he formed lasting friendships and found great fulfillment in doing the Lord’s work — a quiet, sacred part of his life that reflected his deep spiritual devotion and love for others.

He leaves behind a profound legacy of love, sacrifice, and unwavering strength. His presence touched the lives of all who knew him, and he will be deeply missed. He is lovingly survived by his daughters, Laura Kae Rowley (Kelley), Lianna Joy Taylor (Jason), and Elisabeth Ann Worthen (Devin). His heart was especially full when surrounded by his beloved grandchildren—Thomas, Peter, Nathan, Jaycee, Fisher, Garett, Kel, Landon, and Maycee—each of whom brought him immense joy and pride. He also has been blessed with 7 great grandchildren.

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