Cary Ray Hill

Cary Ray Hill, a man of many dimensions, each one reflecting his extraordinary heart, passed away peacefully and unexpectedly in his Holladay home on April 29, 2025. He was 65 years young, full of fire and love until the very end

Born a rambunctious redhead with a spark that never dimmed, Cary kept his parents and little sisters on their toes as he grew up in Murray, Utah. A true free spirit, he lived boldly and loved deeply. He served with pride as a firefighter for 38 years, a career that embodied his protective and generous spirit. Fighting fires was just one chapter in a richly layered life. He and his eternal companion, Janis, filled their home with fun and with music. As his career progressed at the Salt Lake City Fire Department, Cary took on many unique odd jobs including driving armored bank trucks and delivering singing telegrams in costume. One of these side jobs was founding Ice on the Rocks, where for a decade he channeled his creativity into beautiful ice sculptures for weddings, private events, and even for the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City.

Cary was a fiercely devoted husband and father, always curating opportunities for unruly fun. His greatest joy came from being “Papa.” His lucky grandchildren were the focus of his desires to create magic, excitement, and once-in-a-lifetime adventures.

He was a friend to artists, dreamers, misfits, and everyday heroes. To know Cary was to be welcomed, seen, and—more often than not—to laugh hard.

In his friendships, he connected with people of all ages, from young children to the elderly. He had a special bond with dogs, especially his beloved Rexanne, who was his sidekick for many years—a four-legged reflection of his loyalty and warmth.

Within his large extended family, he was a connector, bringing people together at Bear Lake and for big family gatherings. To his wide circle of friends, he was a pillar—always showing up, always bringing others in. He brought his joyful presence to countless concerts and festivals, including Burning Man (and yes, the irony of the Burner Firefighter was not lost on us!).

Cary is preceded in death by his parents Don and Judy, his wife Janis, and his son Casey. He is survived by his sisters Robyn Curtis (Gary), Michelle Hunt (Brian), Nicole Probst (Jared), his son Ryan, his daughter Heather Kiisel (Matt), and his grandchildren Preston, Joanna, Owen, and Vance.

A funeral service will be held in his honor Saturday, May 10, at 11:00 a.m. with a reception one hour prior to the service at 10 a.m. at the Olympus 2nd Ward building located at 3070 E Nila Way, Salt Lake City, Utah.

A celebration to remember Cary’s adventures will be held on May 13, 6-10 p.m. at Church and State located at 370 S 300 E, Salt Lake City, Utah.