Dwight “Bud” DeForest

1950-2023

Dwight Francis DeForest, better known as “Bud,” passed away peacefully at home in Murray, Utah on July 26, 2023, after a long battle with cancer. He was surrounded by family, friends, his favorite dog, Gus, and the “dumb dog” he tolerated, Gracie. Bud was born on November 25, 1950, in Salt Lake City to Francis Leroy DeForest and Beverly Jean Hepting. He married the first love of his life, Raylene Hermansen, on August 28, 1970, and together they raised four children.

Life threw a curveball at Bud in 1999, when Raylene passed away suddenly. Thankfully, he met the second love of his life, Carrie Blackburn. They were married in a “Goofy” Disneyland wedding on April 20, 2002. Bud spent the rest of his days loving Carrie and all the new members of his family with all his heart. Carrie gracefully cared for Bud throughout his struggle with cancer.

Bud retired as a truck driver for FedEx Freight, where he built many lasting friendships. He was a perpetual winner in Utah’s Truck Driving Championships, where he earned a state championship, finished second nationally, and regularly qualified for the national competition. Bud was a baseball coach for his boys, an avid supporter of Jamie’s dance competitions, and a lover of all things related to trains.

Bud is survived by his wife, Carrie; his children, Shane (Lesia), Shawn (Rachel), Jamie (Brad) Rowberry, Jason (Julie), Beckie (Dan) Carrigan, Rachel (Shawn) Blackburn, Erik (McKell) Walters, and Jeremy Walters; his 5 siblings; 19 grandchildren; and his dogs. Bud is preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Raylene, and two granddaughters.

A celebration of life will be held in Bud’s honor on Saturday, August 5, 2023, from 3:00 to 6:00 pm at Glenmoor Golf Club, 9800 South 4800 West, South Jordan, Utah 84009. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to assist with medical expenses. Donations can be made via Venmo @Jamie-Rowberry1