Donald Chris Dyer

On November 9th, just after 9:00 AM, following a heart attack and related complications, Donald Chris Dyer of Vernal, Utah passed away peacefully at the University of Utah Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah surrounded by his family and holding the hand of the love of his life, Carrie. The two enjoyed more than 49 years of marriage. Don often lovingly referred to Carrie as his “Bride,” showing the world a great example of how to build and maintain an enduring love. Also surviving are their children, daughters Tricia and Tina (husband Jared) and son Kirtis (wife Meischa). Don’s living siblings are Ed (wife Sophie), Deanna, Toni, and Rodney. He moves on to join father Delbert, mother Dixie, and youngest brother Mason in the Hereafter.

Don worked for many years as a diesel mechanic in the oil and gas industry, retiring from Halliburton after more than 30 years of service. He loved fixing things, building things, and tinkering. His children, among many others, learned to tackle any project from Don, who never let lack of knowledge or training stop him from undertaking a task. He freely passed along his fearlessness and passion for things worked by hand, both inside his family and outside. When confronted with a challenge, he was fond of saying “‘can’t’ never could” or some other wise words. An avid outdoorsman, Don devoted a large portion of his time to hunting, fishing, camping, boating, and ATV riding.

Two things of great and lasting importance which Don valued above all others were his family and his country. His family was his most cherished and important accomplishment among a great many accomplishments. He enjoyed spending time with his wife and children, ten grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. Psalm 145, verse four says, “One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts.” In this spirit, Don relayed his experiences to those around him, always seeking to share hard-learned life lessons to ease the way. Don proudly served nearly 10 years in the United States Army, including 18 months in Vietnam where he was awarded the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, National Defense Service Medal, and Good Conduct Medal, among others. Don instilled in his family a great love of country, a sense of duty and patriotism, and a desire to exercise their civic responsibility.

Don did so much for others. He worked every day of his life, right up to the last one. His plans, hopes, and desires pass to his loved ones, who will continue his work as tribute to the life Don led and the lessons he taught. He is deeply, sorely missed.

Don’s desire is that he be remembered quietly and privately, so no formal services will be held.