Donald James Dearing

Sandy, UT - Donald James Dearing, 79, our loving husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on July 12, 2021 at his home in Sandy, Utah after a lengthy progression of Alzheimer's during which his wife Pat tirelessly cared for him. He was surrounded by his loving family at the time of passing.

Don honorably served in the US Navy. He worked as a Millwright at Kennecott Copper retiring after 36 years. Don was an avid outdoorsman he loved bow hunting, camping, fishing, and prospecting for gold, anything to be in the wilderness. He was passionate about aviation earning his pilot license, he loved to fly single engine planes. Don spent many years studying different forms of martial arts including Tai Chi, Kung Fu, and earning a black belt in Aikido. He shared his martial arts knowledge with his children. Don and Pat created many cherished lifelong friendships. For many years they also enjoyed winters spent in Yuma, AZ.

Don was born on March 1, 1942 to William Jackson Dearing and Mary Elinore Quadrio. He married Patricia Jean Finnegan on August 18, 1965 in Granger, Utah, they were married 55 wonderful years. Survived by his wife, Pat; children, Lora Dearing, Jim (Tammy) Dearing and Angie (Shay) Conde; grandchildren, Gabi (Chase) Nelson, Kegan (Amanda) Dearing, Jackson Dearing, Hanna Dearing, Ryker Dearing, and Maddy Conde; great grandchildren Jett Nelson and Aiden Dearing; sister, Barbara Bawden.

We are especially grateful for the nurses and staff at Elevation hospice, especially Archie, Sara, Miriam, and Ken.

At Don's request there will be no funeral. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.