Dee Ray Mecham

Dee Ray Mecham peacefully passed away at home after struggling for several years with health challenges. He was born on March 22, 1947 in Logan, Utah as the fourth of eight children to Iral and Anna Rogers Mecham. The family moved to South Jordan in his early years. Dee Ray graduated from the old Bingham High School in Copperton in 1965 before embarking on a journey of service and learning.

Following his studies at LDS Business College, Dee Ray devoted two years of his life as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in the New England States Mission from 1966 to 1968. He met his gem, Ruby, in July 1969 and they were married August 21st of that same year.

Dee Ray's commitment to service extended to his country when he began his military service in the Navy on August 29, 1969. He was stationed in Hawaii and California and served aboard the USS Coral Seal until his honorable discharge in May 1973. Dee Ray pursued his education at Utah Technical College, earning an associate's degree in accounting in 1980.

His career as a dedicated mail handler spanned decades, culminating in his well-deserved retirement in 2009. In retirement, Dee Ray found joy in simple pleasures; singing in the shower, music, cheering on the BYU Cougars in football, and indulging in Hallmark movies. Above all, he cherished spending time with his family; especially his grandchildren.

Dee Ray's faith was the cornerstone of his life, reflected in his service within the church and as a temple ordinance worker. He brought joy to many children as "Santa" and created lasting memories at the Kearns Oquirrh Fitness Center.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Iral and Anna, and siblings Evelyn Howard, Roger, Betty (James) Staley, Lois (Robert) Jacobs, and Jeneal Boberg. He is survived by his loving wife Ruby, siblings Rex (Ilene), Peggy (Lemar) Frost, Roger's wife Mary Ann, Jeneal's husband Mark, many in-laws, and numerous nieces and nephews. Dee Ray leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion in his children Dee Jr. (Liz), Krista, Nicole, Bart, as well as his cherished grandchildren Maya, Marysa, Sam, and Quinn, and great-grandchild Micah.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Legacy Rehabilitation Center, Canyon Home Care & Hospice, and the many who have served him during his final years.

Services to celebrate Dee Ray's life will be held at the Westwood Heights Ward building (3976 West Dimrall Drive) on Monday, July 29th, at 11:00 AM. Friends and family may visit at the same location from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Sunday, July 28th and from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM on July 29th. Internment Valley View Memorial Park. For those wishing to participate via Zoom, please contact the family for the link.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Dee Ray's name to your favorite charity, a fitting tribute to his generous spirit.