Elwin Bagley

Elwin Nowel Bagley, 89, of Salt Lake City, UT, passed away on April 16, 2026, in his home surrounded by family and loved ones.

He was born on September 27, 1936, in Salina, Utah, to Owen Roosevelt Bagley and Irene Brown Bagley. He grew up in Koosharem, Utah, graduated from North Sevier High School, attended Central Utah Vocational School, and was later drafted into the Army.

On August 8, 1964, he married Lula Mae Smith in Salt Lake City, Utah. Together, they embarked on a lifelong journey filled with love and partnership, raising a family of seven children. Their children—Joyce, Kenneth, Kathy, Charlene, Gene, Debbie, and John—grew up surrounded by the values of hard work, compassion, and family unity instilled by their parents.

Elwin worked on the family farm in his youth and often shared stories about his prized white Clydesdales, Jack and Jock. After relocating to the Salt Lake area, he began his career at Kennecott Mine, where he gained valuable experience in the mills. Following his retirement from Kennecott, he joined the Salt Lake School District, dedicating two decades to maintaining school facilities. In this role, Elwin oversaw both the buildings and the grounds, including routine maintenance and landscaping. He took great pride in his work and was known for his attention to detail, consistently keeping the buildings in excellent repair and the grounds in pristine condition. His commitment to maintaining a positive school environment made a lasting impression on both students and staff. Elwin was respected for his dedication to creating a welcoming and safe space for everyone in the community. After his long service, he retired, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in the school district's facilities management.

He was a wonderfully easygoing man who found joy in hunting, fishing, and sharing barbecues with loved ones. His skills as a handyman were remarkable; there wasn't anything he couldn't fix around the house or with the vehicles. His passion for gardening brought him happiness, especially as he enjoyed harvesting fresh summer tomatoes right up to the very end. As a devoted Utah Jazz fan, he took great pleasure in listening to or watching each game. Above all, he deeply cherished his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His kindness and continued support for those around him touched many lives. He will be remembered for his helpful spirit and warm heart.

He is survived by his children: Joyce Welch, Kathy Smith, Meloney, Gene (Rae) Bagley, Debbie (Mark) Miller, and John Bagley. He also leaves behind nine grandchildren: LeeAnn, Benjamin, Jason, Vernon, Brian, Tyson, Paige, Mariah, and Chase, along with many great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Lorraine and Lorenzo, and five sisters: Betty, Dortha, Mildred, Wyoma, and Rolene. Also preceding him in death were his spouse, Lula Mae Bagley, two children, Kenneth and Charlene, and his grandchild, Jeanette.

A memorial service will be held on April 29 at 11 a.m. at Memorial Redwood Mortuary & Cemetery, with a viewing from 9 to 11 a.m. prior to the service. There will also be a viewing on April 28 from 6 to 8 p.m.