Robert Dean Gunnell (Bob) age 91, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2023 at Intermountain Utah Valley Hospital. He was born July 3, 1932 in Soda Springs, Idaho, the son of Earl and Charlotte Gunnell. Bob graduated from Brigham Young University, worked as a civil engineer and then became a partner at Rollins, Brown and Gunnell, a successful engineering firm in Provo. He was licensed as both a civil engineer and surveyor. Over the years he was also a consulting engineer for the cities of Springville and Mapleton as well as a member of the Board of Adjustments for Provo City. Bob enjoyed his career for over fifty years.
Bob was sealed to JeriAnn Jensen on September 7, 1956 in the Salt Lake Temple. He and JeriAnn raised their four children in Provo, Utah and have 15 grandchildren and 29 great grandchildren. Bob is survived by his wife and children: Jacquelyn (Chris) Feinauer, Bret Gunnell, Karen (Mark) Martinez and Lisa (Chad) Cowlishaw. He is also survived by his younger sister Shirley Gunnell Clegg.
Bob was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served faithfully his entire life. He served a mission for his Church in Hawaii and his love for the people and the islands never left his heart. This drew him back to Hawaii many times with his wife, family and friends. Callings in the church included Bishop, Bishopric Counselor, Stake Presidency Counselor and Temple worker. Bob loved Scouting and he offered his time and resources generously to young men in his ward.
Fishing was a passion for Dad and one of his greatest memories was a fishing expedition in Alaska with Bret. He was also a talented woodworker and created many pieces of furniture and accessories for his family. Dad also loved gardening. Some of our greatest times with Dad were boating, water skiing, hunting, attending BYU ballgames and dipping chocolates at Christmas. To us he is the Best Dad Ever!!!
Our family expresses heartfelt gratitude to Rocky Mountain Home Health; the staff at Jamestown Assisted Living; Maple Creek Home Health and Hospice; the doctors, nurses and staff at Intermountain Utah Valley Hospital; and all the other medical professionals who lovingly cared for Dad over the years.
Dad’s eyes were donated to the Moran Eye Center for age related macular degeneration research (ARMD).
A graveside service will be held at the Provo City Cemetery, 610 South State Street, at 11:00 AM on Saturday, September 9, 2023. After the service ALL are invited to visit with the family at the Bonneville 10th Ward building, 1498 East 800 South, Provo.
Condolences can be offered at www.springcreekmortuary.com
