Hurricane, Utah – Gerald H Tovey "Tovey" age 89, passed away peacefully in his home April 2, 2022, surrounded by those who loved him most. He was born in Bountiful, Utah to Marvin H Tovey and Thelma Bryson.

After graduating from West High School, he joined the U.S. Army, becoming a proud Veteran having served his country with pride. During this period in his life, he met and married his first spouse Edna Elizabeth "Betty" Coyne and mother of his first five children.

He married Arlene Taylor on February 20, 1974 and together they blended a family of eight children.

Tovey was a good father, grandfather, brother and friend. His passion and integrity to those he loved was unwavering. He was a force of nature, determined to provide for his family and give them the life he felt they deserved, and toward this end he worked unceasingly. His infectious smile and uncompromising strength will live on forever.

Tovey was a very adventurous youth, which often got him and his friends into trouble. (He always said, "they were just having fun!"). He was always interested in sports and in high school, you could find him out on a date, running track, playing baseball, and "just having fun". Tovey set several track records in high school and held those records for many years. Tovey attended the University of Utah where he continued wowing all, as a winning track star, and later in life would receive one of his favorite compliments from his friend, that "Tovey could run like the wind". He remained a diehard Utes fan for life. Tovey would be invited to compete in the U.S. Olympics, as well as an invitation to try out for the Pittsburgh Pirates, he declined both and instead served his country with honor.

Tovey started the Little League Ute Conference and served as Commissioner for many years influencing generations of young football players.

He wasn't a perfect man, but every day he tried perfectly. He was often stubborn, always strong and had an often-hidden compassion and exceptional love for family and friends. He taught his children to be strong, to face challenges with courage, and to always strive for perfection.

Tovey was a sports enthusiast, avid reader, golfer, and enjoyed diving into anything that was of interest to him. He made innumerable friends along the way; he was truly the kind of person who drew people in. He never lost his fighting spirit and love for life. Those who knew him best, knew his spirit and understood his desire to be the best father a family could ask for and the friend you could always count on.

Tovey was predeceased by his parents, Marv and Thelma Tovey; his brother, Gale; his first wife, Betty; and his daughter Alana "Allie".

He is survived by his wife, Arlene; his children: Kurt, Todd (Laurie), Suzanne, Dan, Terianne (Barry), Chad, and Drew; as well as his beautiful and beloved grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Graveside services with Military Honors will be held Saturday, April 9, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at Tonaquint Cemetery, 1777 South Dixie Drive, St. George, Utah.

Gerald Tovey Service Program