Scotty Hyrum Mortensen

Scotty Hyrum Mortensen, a cherished father, grandfather, brother, and a remarkable human being, passed away on January 3, 2026, in Heber City, Utah, after a long battle with kidney failure. Born the second child in the LDS Hospital of the decade on January 1, 1950, in Salt Lake City, Utah, Scotty was a beacon of warmth and kindness, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of all who had the pleasure to know him.

A graduate of Granite High School in 1969, Scotty further pursued his passion for nurturing hospitality by obtaining a degree from the College of Southern Idaho. With a dedicated work ethic, he began as the maintenance manager before co-owning Rowley & Company, a fruit and vegetable processing and distribution company that served the community with integrity. Yet perhaps what Scotty loved most was the time spent behind the wheel as a bus driver for the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind. His laughter and joyous spirit were evident as he took children for rides on his cart and in the wagon behind, creating lasting memories that echoed through the halls long after the rides ended.

A proud member of the Utah Army National Guard, Scotty relished his role as a cook. Under his stewardship, his unit was awarded the best mess hall in the US Army, a testament to his culinary skills and loving dedication to service. After more than 22 years of service, he retired, but his commitment to his community and fellow man never waned.

Scotty's light shone brightly not only through his career but also in the tales he spun, drawing friends and family into his joy for storytelling. His love for sharing meals with others fostered connections, as he took delight in treating those around him to their favorite eateries. An aficionado of old westerns and The Walton's, he often found solace in the rugged landscapes of the past, evoking nostalgia and comfort. He did all he could to never miss University of Utah football game.

His service within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints defined much of his life. He dutifully answered many callings, including Ward Mission Leader, Branch President for Camp Williams, Elders Quorum President, Stake Clerk, and Temple Worker at the Jordan River Temple. His mission as a servant of God extended to serving as a missionary in the New York, Hill Cumorah Mission, and later, as an employment specialist missionary during his retirement—a role that allowed him to assist others in finding their paths.

He is tightly cherished in memory by his beloved children: Francis (Amber) Mortensen, William (Cynthia) Mortensen, Venice (Ben) O’Brien, Troy (Liz) Mortensen, Emily (Wil) Cocke, and Ryan (Kendra) Mortensen. His legacy is further enriched by his 31 grandchildren, who carry his spirit forward with each day. He is further survived by his sister, Zelma Jean Storper; and brothers, Soren Delile Mortensen and Kent (Evelyn) Mortensen; in-laws: Verla Mortensen, Ramona (Aaron Dean) Murray, Larry (Janet) Rowley, Marvin (Shirley) Rowley, and David (Kelene) Rowley; and numerous nieces and nephews

Scott is now reunited with his wife, Mary Rowley Mortensen, in the eternal realms, along with his parents, Martin Lenard Mortensen and Venice Amanda Petersen. He was also preceded in death by his brothers: Francis Lenard Mortensen, Verdis E. Mortensen, Sonny Jerald Mortensen, and Danny (Roberta) Mortensen; parents-in-law, William and Leona Rowley; brothers-in-law, Ronald (Pat) Rowley and Dan Storper; and many other loved family members whose memories linger in the hearts of those who loved them.

An avid builder and repairer, Scotty imparted these skills lovingly to his children, ensuring that his knowledge and passion for craftsmanship would echo through generations. The world may have dimmed with his passing, but the stories, laughter, and love he shared, along with the values he championed, remain robust and vibrant in the hearts of his family and friends.

Though the void left by Scotty's departure is immeasurable, his spirit of love, service, and kinship will never be forgotten. Services are to be held at 11:00 AM  on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1510 West Parliament Avenue, West Valley, Utah. Please join us at Memorial Murray Mortuary, 5850 South 900 East, Murray, Utah, for a viewing on January 14, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Another viewing will be held at the church on Thursday, January 15, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 10:45 AM. Interment will follow the funeral service at the Utah Veteran's Cemetery at 1:00 PM the same day, bringing closure to a life richly lived.