Donald William Ulmer

Donald William Ulmer, loving husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on January 6, 2026 reuniting with his eternal companion, Betty Jewel Allan, the love of his life.  Donald was born on July 8, 1933 in Boise, Idaho to Earsel Albert and Mildred Stevens Ulmer.  After moving to Utah, Don attended and graduated from South High School.  Recognized for his quick wit and keen intellect, he established himself as the standard emcee for school assemblies and subsequent reunions.  He studied English at the University of Utah (where he met Betty Jewel) in addition to receiving a commission to serve as an Ensign in the U.S. Navy.  Donald and Betty Jewel were sealed on August 23, 1957 in the Salt Lake Temple.

Donald began his career as a beloved school teacher, and then a public relations officer at the Oak Ridge Associated Universities in Oak Ridge, TN.  After earning an MBA, he went on to serve as the Deputy Executive Secretary of the Utah Education Association and finished his career as President of Educator’s Mutual Insurance Association.

Donald loved to play tennis with friends and family – he had a killer slice.  He was an avid reader, a Civil War history buff, and a dedicated Utah Symphony patron.

Donald was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  He converted and was baptized in 1956. His callings included Branch President, Bishopric 2nd counselor, Bishop, and gifted gospel doctrine teacher.  Don and Betty Jewel served a public affairs mission in Nauvoo, IL during the Church’s sesquicentennial celebration. He had a strong testimony of Jesus Christ and lived a life of integrity, generosity, and love.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Betty Jewel, sister, Barbara Leonhardt, brother, Glen Ulmer, daughter-in-law, Kimberly Ulmer, and two grandchildren, Clarissa Olson and Crystal Ulmer.  He is survived by his four children, Christian Ulmer (Laura), Julie Olson (Danny), Jeanne Holt (Ramon), Mathew Ulmer, eleven grandchildren, and 13 great grandchildren.

The family wishes to express gratitude to the staff at Spring Gardens Enhanced Care and Inspiration Hospice for the exceptional and loving care given to dad in his final years.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at the East Millcreek Stake Center on 3103 East Craig Drive in Salt Lake City.  A viewing will be held from 9:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. with services following at 11:00 a.m.  Interment will follow at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park on Monday, January 12, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.

To livestream services please visit https://zoom.us/j/91318231883?pwd=ls3Vhf6xoZcnxa0XVbo1a6otLAggsD.1