St. George Utah - Clarence Leslie Gubler passed away surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with Multiple System Atrophy.

Clare was born on September 26, 1955, in St. George Utah to Ted Laub Gubler and Joyce Wilcox Snow. He spent his childhood building the best underground huts in Middleton, driving his minibike (until it caught fire), and camping with his family. Clare attended West Elementary, Woodward Jr High, and later Dixie High School Class of 73, where he met the love of his life, Alicia Ashman. They were married on August 21, 1975, in the Manti Utah Temple and celebrated the massive accomplishment of their 50-year anniversary this year. Together they built a beautiful life and raised four children: Lindsay, Courtney, Alex, and Ashlyn. Clare's greatest joy was spending time with his children and their families.

After some very close calls and undeniable divine protection while driving for Rocky Mountain Produce, Clare spent most of his career in the restaurant industry. He began as a line cook at Denny's, where his work ethic and steady leadership quickly set him apart. In 1990, that dedication led him to become general manager of the newest restaurant on the block, Shoney's. In 2003, Clare took a leaps of faith to fulfill his lifelong dream of opening his own restaurant, and the iconic Durango's Mexican Grill was born. Through Durango's, Clare served tens of thousands of meals and became a beloved fixture in the St. George community.

If you were lucky enough to cross paths with Clare, you left feeling seen and cared for. Whether he was serving in a church calling or packing up to-go orders at Durango's, every interaction reflected his generosity and attention to detail. Everyone who went to Durango's has a Clare story — always about how he went above and beyond. It might have been a triple-check on your dressing or a reminder to grab forks on your way out, but to Clare, those small gestures of care were how he expressed gratitude for each and every customer. Thank you for being part of his dream!

Clare's greatest joy was his family. From games and recitals, to musicals and family trips, he cherished every moment. He was often found recording videos on his phone, later reliving those memories again and again.

He was quick with a compliment and even quicker to forgive. He was the steady foundation we leaned on in times of uncertainty, offering perspective that was thoughtful, and full of wisdom.

Clare had a deep and profound love for his Heavenly Father and Savior, Jesus Christ. He recognized Their hands in his life countless times. Of all of the callings he held, teaching the 3-4 year old in primary was his favorite.

Even while carrying a tremendous health burden, Clare faced each challenge with his signature kindness and quiet positivity. As a family, we are grateful to have witnessed his resilience and to have been shaped by his love.

Clare is survived by his devoted wife, Alicia; his children: Lindsay Gardner (Mason), Courtney (Mandi), Alex, and Ashlyn; and his eight grandchildren: Macie, Camden, Ivie, Ainsley, Ali, Dylan, Sophie, and Brem. He is also survived by his mother, Joyce Snow; his brothers: Steven, Curtis, and Doug; and his father-in-law, Nolan Ashman.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ted Gubler; his mother-in-law, Yvonne Ashman; and his brother, Richard Gubler.

As a family, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Becky, Bre, Emily, and the entire team at Dixie Hospice for their loving care over the past year and a half. We are also deeply thankful to Katie Stuart for her friendship and healing presence.

Clare lived a life defined by integrity, generosity, and unwavering dedication. We are eternally grateful for the lasting imprint he leaves on our hearts and take comfort in knowing that his love remains with us still.

A celebration of Clare's life will be held on Saturday March 21, 2026 at 1:00 p.m., with a viewing prior from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at Metcalf Bonzo Mortuary 288 West St George Blvd. Interment for the family will follow at Tonaquint Cemetery.