Obituary from Thayne, Wyoming

Gary Eugene Morton, devoted father, husband, grandfather, and great grandfather returned home to his loving Heavenly Father on January 21st 2023.

Gary was born on February 22, 1945 to Jack E. Morton and Lois MacCallum in Tacoma, WA.  Gary was a curious young boy who loved to spend time with his dad fishing off the pier of the Puget Sound and going on many fun family adventures.  Gary and his father, many years ago built a fishing boat together creating an incredible bond.  Both had a great love of the outdoors. They loved exploring the great state of Washington together with his mom and little sister Lynn.

After Gary graduated from his trade school in welding, Gary moved to Utah to work. He met Linda Jean Bishop who introduced him to many things, but most importantly to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- day Saints.  Gary was later baptized a member of the church. Gary and Linda were married on May 3rd 1968. On September 19th 1969 Gary and Linda were sealed in the Logan Temple.
The two built a home and raised their family in Layton, Utah. Four children, Scott Eugene, Charles Blaine, Melanie Lynn, and Neil Frederick. were added to their beautiful union in their 16 years together. After they divorced in 1983, Gary met Ingrid Vikari Kafton and the two hit it off immediately.  Gary and Ingrid were married on May 31st 1985 and sealed on June 6, 1986. Together they continued to nurture a loving blended family. After 7 years they parted ways and later divorced.  Gary was then introduced to an intriguing woman named Donna,  who would become his 3rd wife. Gary and Donna were married in 1994. They lived in Layton for several years and later moved to Puyallup, WA so Gary could be close to his ailing mother before her death in July of 2000.  After Donna's passing in May 2009, Gary reunited with Ingrid and the two rekindled a love that was never lost. Gary and Ingrid were married for the second time on February 20th 2010.
Gary soon moved with Ingrid to Thayne, Wyoming and lived out the remainder of his life there in beautiful Star Valley.

Gary loved the Lord and faithfully served in many callings in the church throughout his life.  Gary loved being around people. Talking with people was his passion.  He was an avid amateur radio operator; call sign KB7KOA.  He would often sit by his "made from scratch" radio and reach out to lonely travelers. Many conversations were exchanged and friendships made during that time.  Gary was a hard working man with many talents. From engineering and plumbing to electrical and carpentry. Gary was very good with his hands and a great problem solver. He could fix anything.  Gary was what you would call a Jack of all Trades. He worked on many projects and helped many friends and neighbors with theirs as well. His children often worked side by side with him as his little helpers to get the jobs done. One spring, Gary built beautiful wooden outdoor furniture for his family to enjoy for years to come. Gary was a very outgoing and social man who loved a good joke and an intriguing story. He often told a few of his own. Recently as the years have passed and Gary's health has declined, much care has been given to his needs. His family could not care for him on their own and after an extensive recovery from a fall, was permanently a full-time resident, first at Legacy Homes and then Star Valley Care Center. He had become quite the "life of the party" at Star Valley Care Center. He has won awards and was featured in their local newspaper. Gary had an infectious personality.  You couldn't just pass him in the halls without having some words exchanged.  Residents were drawn to him.  He cheered them up and often made them laugh.  Gary was adored by all of the nurses and staff who lovingly cared for him.

Gary is survived by his wife Ingrid Morton, his sister Lynn Tebbutt (Edward), children Scott Eugene Morton (Verlene) Melanie Lynn Cox(Nate) and Neil F. Morton.  Stepchildren; Robert Kafton Jr. (Kristine), Gordon Kafton (Elizabeth), Maryanne Christensen (Corey), and Heidi Kafton (Larry). Grandchildren and step grandchildren;  Michael, Brianne, Jessie Kristine, Kristine, Matthew, Rachelle, Tanner, Nikole, Ashley, Christian, Zack, Misty, Mikaela, Skyler, Lydia, Kendyl, Spencer, Samuel, and Charlotte.

Gary is proceeded in death by his loving parents Jack and Lois and son Charles Blaine.

A special thanks to all the nurses, staff and residents at Star Valley Care Center and Legacy Homes for lovingly and patiently caring for Gary and his many needs throughout the 5 years as a resident.  For encouraging his involvement and planning wonderful engaging activities and field trips to seek out adventure and fun times when one is so limited.
Special thanks to Corey, Maryanne and the Christensen grandkids for lovingly looking after dad and grandpa and providing for his immediate loving care and needs in every way.

Please join the family and friends of Gary Eugene Morton (1945-2023) in a Celebration of Life reception on March 4, 2023 at 1PM
Schwab Funeral Chapel
211 Jepperson 
Off Hwy 89
Thayne, Wyoming 83127