John R. Conner, Jr.

John R. Conner — golfer, traveler, storyteller, and fixer of smiles — set off on his final journey recently, leaving behind his beloved wife Marcia and a large, loving family of children, and those who knew him as Papa Doc, his grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Born on August 30, 1945, in Washington, DC, John began life with a spark of wit and an abundance of curiosity that would propel him to success later in life. John excelled in his studies and played football for Washington-Lee (#51), proving that he had some grit to go along with his grin. After high school, John served a mission in Paris, France, where he developed a lifelong love for the French language, culture, and cuisine. His years there shaped him deeply, igniting his curiosity and his enthusiasm for world travel.

John attended Brigham Young University starting in 1964. It was there he met Betty Gerber; they married in 1969 and moved east to pursue academics and John’s dental education at Georgetown University, graduating in 1973. Soon after, they returned to Utah with their two small children, Kimberly and Andrew. While John and Betty eventually decided they made better co-parents than spouses, they remained a fantastic parenting unit.

In 1993, John’s heart grew even fuller when he met and married Marcia, his partner in every adventure that followed. She was his constant companion, his greatest joy, and his trusted co-navigator through more than 32 years of marriage. Together they traveled the world, shared conversation and curiosity, and built a life rooted in love and deep devotion. They often opened their home to family and friends, entertaining and throwing the most wonderful holiday parties.

In addition to a family, John also built a professional life in Utah. He established a successful and respected dental practice in Salt Lake City, surrounded by a loyal team and an ever-growing list of patients who quickly became friends. Technically talented and conversationally gifted, John was the kind of dentist people actually looked forward to visiting. He listened with a warm heart and could always recall a joke for any situation, or a story for any worry. His daughter Kimberly worked alongside him for many years, and together they made a cheerful, capable, and beloved team. For more than a decade, John also served as the dentist for the Utah Jazz, proudly caring for athletes he admired both on and off the court.

John’s personality was one of warmth and wit. His memory for jokes and historical facts was extraordinary, and he always had the perfect quip ready, offered with just the right blend of humor and gentlemanly polish. Family, friends, patients, even strangers enjoyed talking to John because he listened, he cared, and he was always entertaining. When he wasn’t working, traveling, or entertaining, John could be found on the golf course. John eventually built his forever home on a golf course, where he played endless rounds with friends, family, and especially his son, Andrew.

John is preceded in death by his mother, father, and stepson, Jeff, who are undoubtedly waiting to hear his latest travel stories. His family and biggest fan club are grieving his loss: his wife, Marcia, his children, Kimberly (Matthew) Utley and Andrew Conner; his grandchildren, Aidan (Jacob) South, Brenna (Judd) Gottschall, Kerrigan Utley, and Dylan Conner; and his bonus family: stepchildren Joanne Rowe and Jim (Cyndi) Rowe; granddaughters Amanda Averett (Larry Christensen) and Jessica (Mitchell) King and grandson Justin (Krista) Rowe; and his great-grandchildren. Also survived by his sister, Julia (Bob) Burnett.

John will be missed deeply, but his legacy lives on in every shared joke, every thoughtful conversation, and every life (or smile) he brightened along the way.

The family wishes to express our deepest gratitude to Symbii Hospice Care, particularly Brooke, Amy, Thor and Steven. We would also like to express our gratitude to all the amazing neighbors who have been so kind and loving.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Make a Wish Foundation of Utah. https://wish.org/utah

Funeral services will he held Sunday, December 7th, 2025 at 2:00 with visitation from 1:00 to 2:00 at Memorial Mountain View, 3115 E Bengal Blvd (7800 S), Cottonwood Heights, Utah. Interment to follow services.

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