Vernon Emil Gorzitze

Notice is hereby given that I, Vernon Emil Gorzitze, have left this mortal existence, the result of too many birthdays on December 29, 2022. 

I was born July 20, 1930 to emigrant parents Herbert and Margaret Uhl Gorzitze in Salt Lake City, Utah. My parents were poor in dollars but RICH in love and faith, always working hard to provide.

I attended schools in Salt Lake City – Onequa Elementary, Jackson Jr. High, West High and University of Utah, earning a BA Degree in Fine Arts.

I served my Church in the West German LDS Mission, 1950-1953.

I served my country in the Army attached to the 12th Engineers, 5th Regimental Combat Team and the 21st Division.

Married Ilene Steenblik, my eternal companion, the choice of my heart and lifelong friend.

As a teenager, and later in high school and college, I swam competitively. I was an Eagle Scout. Hopped and later drove milk delivery truck and processed milk for my friend, scoutmaster, and father-in-law Gerrit Steenblik. Swept floors and unpacked chinaware at Restaurant and Stores Equipment Co., managed the Swimming Department at the original Deseret Gym, managed the Packaging and Shipping Department for Perma-Pack Food Storage Company, and a multitude of summer and odd jobs. Spent most of my adult life working in construction-related fields – Elias Morris and Son’s Co., Lauren Burt Inc., Advanced Acoustics and Floor Coverings (part owner and full-time janitor), Building Systems Inc. and prior to retirement, Capitol Building Materials. Served and held leadership positions in several organizations – Salt Lake Skin-Divers, Wasatch Toastmasters, Mountain Men of the Wasatch, Rocky Mountain Fur Co., Utah Westerners, Oregon California Trails Association. Was a founding member of the Wasatch Cannoneers (1st Chair Concussion) supplying live cannon fire for the Utah Symphony and several other groups performing the 1812 Overture from 1975 to present.

Loved family, swimming, black powder shooting, books, history – music, good food and collecting STUFFFFF.

Preceded in death by: Wife of almost 66 years, Ilene, and my parents.

Survived by brother Michael Gorzitze (Jeanette), daughter Michelle Winger (Bill), son Greg (Karen), son Todd (Janene). Grandchildren – Lesley DaLuz, Erica Dutson (Zach), Heidi Lawyer (Tom), Katie Gorzitze, Ryan Gorzitze (Chelsea), Tyler Gorzitze (Kelly), Haley Jessen (Zach). Great-Grandchildren – Lily, Mason, and Hannah Dutson, Mia and Jade Lawyer, Monroe Gorzitze, Oakley Jessen, Kiley & Aaron Nelson and Cayson Gorzitze.

**** Remember to:

HUG THOSE YOU LOVE AND CARE FOR – EVERY DAY!!!

Vern will be laid to rest at the Salt Lake Cemetery. Following a private family graveside service.