Bart Thaxton, 86, of Riverton, UT, son of the late Jewel and Louise, bid farewell to the world on November 29, 2023, in South Jordan, UT. Born on May 22, 1937, in Riverton, UT. Bart was a true maestro of machines, a Master Machinist, Tool & Die Maker, and Mechanic extraordinaire.

When Bart wasn't busy tinkering away in his garage/home machine shop, he was out conquering the great outdoors. This outdoorsy enthusiast was always up for an adventure, whether it was skiing down the slopes, hiking through nature's playground, hunting big game, camping under the stars, or tearing up the trails with his trusty home built dune buggy. It's safe to say that Bart had a wheel-y good time! He also loved steam locomotives and built an outdoor railroad in his backyard that he spent countless hours building and playing with in his retirement.

Bart was quite proud of his nearly 30 year career at Kennecott Copper. There he started in the Locomotive/Shovel Machine Shop and worked his way up to Shop Foreman. He had a true knack at building or repairing just about anything mechanical. If he couldn’t fix it, it wasn’t fixable. He frequently talked about his work at Kennecott like it was yesterday.

In addition to his mechanical prowess, In his personal life, Bart cherished his family and had a special bond with each one of his children. He is survived by his children: Shawna (Ron), Ronda (Reid), Lori, Boyd (Kristi), and Kendall (Heather) as well as 16 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren and his brother Ted (Sandy). He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Iretta.

To celebrate Bart's incredible life, a visitation will be held on Friday, December 15, 2023, from 10 AM to 11 AM, followed by a service at 11 AM, both at the Broomhead Funeral Home located at 12600 S 2200 W, Riverton, UT.

Bart will forever be remembered as a man who worked hard, played hard, and loved his family with all his heart. As we say goodbye, let's raise a wrench and toast to a life well-lived. Bart, you've left an indelible mark on our hearts and we'll miss you in ways only a true gearhead can understand. Keep those engines revving up there!