The following obituaries appeared in the May 8, 2024 edition of the Star Valley Independent.
For more area obituaries, please visit Schwab Mortuary.
For more resources including headstones, please visit the Star Valley Historical Society.
Diane Gardner
Diane Mae Gardner, 57, of Evanston, Wyoming passed away peacefully in Afton, Wyoming at her childhood home on April 30th, 2024, surrounded by her dedicated and loving family. She was born on November 5, 1966, in Afton, Wyoming, the sixth child to Reed H. and Virginia L. Ellis Gardner.
As a lifetime member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Diane served a mission to Quezon City, Philippines, was a youth leader, camp leader, Sunday school teacher, relief society teacher/leader, nursery leader, ministering sister, coach, umpire, referee, and faithful sister. Throughout her life, Diane touched the hearts of everyone she met with her warmth, kindness, infectious laughter and smile. She was known for her compassionate nature and unwavering support for those in need. As an elementary school teacher, administrator, coach, leader, mentor, and friend, Diane touched the lives of thousands of children and co-workers, while employed at the Uinta County School District in Evanston, WY for 30 years. She was also known for lending a helping hand to others, with boundless energy and enthusiasm. Diane loved the thrill of anonymous charity, the quiet Samaritan, or providing Christlike service. If you needed what Diane had, she gave it to you without a second thought.
Diane had a passion for all sports, whether watching (live or on TV), participating, supporting, officiating, or chaperoning. Her creativity and zest for life were evident in everything she did, from quilting, to coloring, and playing the piano. She spent time with family and friends, playing golf, bunco, skiing, volleyball, basketball, racquetball, or softball. Her competitive edge didn’t go unnoticed as she always had to win. Traveling the world with family and friends were highlights of her adult years. The hours and miles she spent ensuring the family had toys and support can never be measured. Diane did not miss the milestone events of her cherished family, near and far.
The diagnosis of glioblastoma rocked her world, but her never-quit heart and soul allowed her to create stronger family bonds for the 15 months she was granted. Diane’s death leaves a significant hole in the hearts of devoted siblings, nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. Additionally, countless friends and colleagues, whose lives she enriched with her presence, will deeply miss her. Diane carried the Spirit of Christ everywhere she went, and she leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and joy that will continue to inspire all who knew her. Though she may be gone from our sight, her influence will forever live in our hearts. “In a World Where You Can be Anything, Be Kind!”
Diane chose to share her love with Mitten’s an Imperial Tsi Shu, and later she added Meeko and Missy to the household. Those dogs loved her unconditionally, and Diane was devoted to them and their needs.
Diane is preceded in death by her parents, Reed Hemmert and Virginia Leigh Ellis Gardner, and her older brother, Ronald. She is survived by her siblings Gerrie (Hank), Rollin (Tami), Evon (Bill), Russell (Leslie), Marcella Wright (Dale), Reynold (Jennifer), and Rulon. Seventeen nieces and nephews, and nineteen great nieces and nephews are lucky enough to have her as the Best Aunt ever. Everyone needs an Aunt Diane or Gramma Di.
Visitation for family and friends will be on Friday, May 3, 2024, from 6– 8 p.m. at Schwab Mortuary in Afton, Wyoming on Saturday, May 4, 2024, from 9:30– 10:45 a.m. Visitation will be held prior to the Celebration of Life at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel located at 104 Johnny Miller Drive, Afton, WY. The Celebration of Diane’s Life will follow at 11am. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Diane Mae Gardner Scholarship Fund, 1430 W. Songbird Drive, St. George, Ut, 84790, in her memory.
Kent Wheeler
Robert Kent Wheeler, beloved brother, father and grandfather, passed away April 25, 2024, in Boise, Idaho just one week after his 89th birthday. He was born April 18, 1935, in Ogden, Utah to Robert and Mary Wheeler.
He attended and graduated from Ogden High School, Class of 1953. Kent joined the U.S. Air Force and became a fighter-pilot. While stationed at the base in Iceland, he met and married his first wife, Kristin Thor. They had two children, Karen and Kirk. Karen died in August 2011. During Kent’s time with the Air Force, he traveled extensively including an extended assignment in Germany. He attained the rank of Major, served as a Chaplin, flew over President Jimmy Carter and his wife Rosaline in their Lear jet, and served in the Vietnam War. Upon retirement he became a commercial airline pilot with United Airlines and flew 747 airliners for 30 years.
Kent was active in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and held various positions of leadership, including Bishop’s Counselor, High Priest Quorum instructor and temple worker. He and his second wife, Judy, served on a mission to the Navajo Nation at Navajo Mountain in southern Utah. They lived in Star Valley, Wyoming and enjoyed the rural life until Judy passed away in 2016. A few years later Kent married Barbara Garner of Star Valley, Wyoming. She passed away in Idaho Falls in 2021.
Kent is survived by his son Kirk Thor and two grandchildren, John Price and Kodiak Price; his brother Ned of Hurricane, Utah; his brother Max of Washington, Utah; his sister Nancy Cotter of Boise, Idaho, who became his principal caregiver during the last years of his life; and his sister Ruth Dillon of Arizona.
Kent’s loved ones are invited to a graveside service which is to be held at the Aultorest Mortuary, 836 36th St. in Ogden, Utah on May 11 at 2:00 p.m. where he will be interred.
