Gary Kener Best

Gary Kener Best, Cherished Husband, Father, Son, Brother, Grandfather and Great Grandfather passed away in the early morning hours of Friday, February 3, 2023, at his home with his beloved dog Bella and his loving family gathered near. Born on November 9, 1938, in Salt Lake City Utah, youngest son of Oakley Herbert Best and Hazel Alice Kener Best. He graduated from East High School, where he was a baseball player and excelled in many trades. He completed some semesters at The University of Utah, which became his favorite sports team to root for. He was a dedicated fan to the U, and rarely missed a game. Gary married his eternal sweetheart Janet Kinnersley Best, in the Salt Lake City Utah LDS temple on May 15, 1959. He always said he knew Janet was to be his bride the day he met her when she came to visit her friend at LDS Hospital where he was working at the time as a surgical technician. Gary and Janet were blessed with nine beautiful children: Teri (Dana) Booth, Gary Todd Best, Susan (Dale) Smith, Richard Steven Best (deceased), Karen (Blair) Fogg, Kevin Best, Michael (Talya) Best, Michelle (Ryan) Wilkinson, Mandy (Richard) Aerts. After the joy of raising their children, they welcomed numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren who they adored. We often joked dad was the chauffeur to all the grandchildren who needed a ride one place or another. He loved helping to raise his sweet blessings. He always did so much for those he loved. Gary was an enthusiastic outdoorsman. Fishing, hunting, and teaching his sons to play baseball were some of his favorite times. He coached little league for many years and made lifelong friends. Many a summers night was spent at the ball fields, and there was no place he’d rather be. Golf was another fun past time for Dad. He treasured the time he spent with those he loved on the beautiful golf courses throughout northern Utah. He also loved dogs and animals of all kinds and will have been greeted by the ones who passed before him. Gary had five daughters that he loved to spoil and dote on. He loved to tell a good joke. He enjoyed making people laugh and smile. He knew how to get to the punch line and crack everyone up. Sometimes the jokes he told had been told hundreds of times before, but still made you laugh again. Gary is now reunited with his beloved wife Janet, and his baby boy Ricky who passed way too soon. Even though we will miss him dearly, we know this was a joyous reunion above. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Janet, his baby son, his parents, and siblings Wayne Best, and Marilyn Best Millerberg. We would like to thank Bristol Hospice of Northern Utah for the dedicated care they provided to Dad. He was a wonderful Father and Grandfather to all of us children and grandchildren. Graveside services and interment will be held at 1 pm, Thursday, February 9, 2023, at the Ben Lomond Cemetery in North Ogden, Utah.

Gary Kener Best

November 9, 1938 - February 3, 2023