Garth Heaton

Theron Garth Heaton, known to family and friends as Garth, passed away on November 2, 2026, at the age of 85. He was born on July 28, 1941, in Ephraim, Utah, to Idona Gibson Heaton and David Esplin Heaton.

Garth married his loving wife, Dora Graciela DeHoyos — affectionately called Chela — on November 23, 1963, in the Los Angeles Temple. Together they built a life and family spanning 63 years.

Garth dedicated over 30 years to the US Forest Service, beginning his career at Ashley National Forest during his summers while attending USU, then working in California and New Mexico before returning to Utah, where he would spend the rest of his life. He finished out his last two decades of service in Utah, and was recognized many times for his innovative ideas and work. He later served as Director of the Dinosaur Land Travel Board, and went on to start his own business consulting for the US Forest Service.

Garth was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served a mission in the Spanish American Mission and served in many church callings, including in the temple. He loved the outdoors and cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren, having them come to visit and play with him.

Special thanks to the caregivers at Good Shepherd Hospice, especially Tina and Sam, who made a difference.

Garth is survived by his loving wife, Dora (Chela); his sons, Orlando (Cathy) and Adrian (Suzanne); four grandchildren, LJ Heaton, Marcos (Katherine) Heaton, Bobbi Lynne (Parker) Seitz, and Dani (Tyler) Cannon; and 12 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Orlande and Garold, and his sister Vauna.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, November 6, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Maeser Fairview Cemetery in Vernal, Utah, where he will be laid to rest.