Kathleen Crookston Gunnell

On January 15, 2025, Kathleen Crookston Gunnell passed away, gracefully and peacefully. Kathy rejoined her husband and love of her life, Vern, after his passing in July of last year. Kathy was a woman of faith - faith in the Lord and faith in humanity. 

Kathy was born on August 2, 1943, in Hyrum, UT. She has fond recollections of her upbringing in “the log cabin” in Hyrum. Kathy helped with the small family farm and cherished time with her family, especially those times with her dear Mom who passed away when she was just 21. She attended school in Hyrum, graduating from South Cache High School, and was always found stirring up fun and games with her sisters Marilyn and Loralee. She met and married her lifelong soulmate Vern and they began a sojourn throughout the world in conjunction with his career as an Air Force officer. However, home for Kathy was always Hyrum and a small bench, in her name, now sits on the Hyrum City Square recognizing the beautiful city of Hyrum – but more importantly the people who are Hyrum.

Kathy spoke often of how blessed her life has been relative to her childhood and ever since. She and Vern raised five kids all born in different places. Kathy did not miss soccer games, choir and band concerts, or courts of honor. She loved sports of all kinds, but nearest and dearest to her would be the unofficial title of Mt. Sterling’s biggest Utah Jazz fan – hands down. Kathy also enjoyed phenomenal family reunions, significant (and even non-significant) events with kids, grandkids, and her great granddaughter. 

A favorite pastime for Kathy was to accompany Vern on the proverbial Sunday Drives (though they happened on whichever night they were together). More times than we can possibly count, Kathy would share over a phone call with family that she had just finished “driving with dad through Paradise, Avon, and then back home just checking in with folks”. She relished visits with neighbors, friends and of course family.

Speaking of neighbors, Kathy shared how thankful she and Vern were for their close friends in Mt. Sterling. She expressed gratitude for those who provided such warmth and care, especially during the latter years. Of special note are the family members who tirelessly dedicated time and efforts to minister at a moment’s notice.

Finally, and in reference to family, Kathy understood how important the eternal nature of families guided her focus in life. She loved the gospel of Jesus Christ because it is centered on love and peace. Her example of selfless devotion and compassion reflect her commitment to His work and joy. Kathy’s legacy is simple - work with a will, serve with a smile, and love without limit. 

We will miss you – your incessant desire to do good and to be good. Your example of being able to always look for and appreciate the best in others will continue to inspire us. And, as you have shared with us on so many occasions, your drive now with dad is indeed through Paradise. We love you.

Kathy is survived by her five children Gary Vernen Gunnell [Staci], Kurt L Gunnell [Jana], Karla Kathleen Gunnell, Lori Ann Bartels [Darren], and Kevin David Gunnell [Andrea]; 16 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, Vernen Parker Gunnell, her parents Jesse Crookston and Phyllis Crookston, brother Richard [Clo] Crookston, and sister Marilyn Morris [Tom] Smith. She is also survived by siblings Loralee [Ken] Schwartz, Garr [Nancy] Crookston, and Thomas [Geneva] Crookston.

There are no words which can express the family’s profound gratitude for the “extended family” at both Canyon Hospice and Spring Gardens in Draper. The selfless, dignified and genuine, compassionate care provided to Kathy during her time there, especially after Vern’s passing, will always be a hallmark of her time with us. (Also, the family hopes their stock of Dr. Pepper recovers soon) 

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to do so may donate to the Missionary or Humanitarian Funds of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or your favorite charity.

A viewing will be held on Saturday, January 25, from 10am to 12 noon at the Mt. Sterling LDS Chapel located at 48 West 1450 South, Wellsville, UT. The funeral service will begin at 12:30pm in the chapel. Interment will be at the Wellsville City Cemetery.

Memories and condolences may be shared and expressed at www.allenmortuaries.com.