David Earl Gove

David Earl Gove, 80 years old, passed away 11/24/2025 peacefully in his sleep from a long battle with heart disease. Born to Charles E. and Martha Maxine (Wiggs) Gove on 02/20/1945 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Preceded in death by mother and father Charles E and Martha Maxine (Wiggs) Gove, infant son Shawn from previous marriage, and his beloved Daughter Megan M Gove.Survived by his Sisters, Patricia (Tony) Reece, Susan (Rocky) Catenzaro, and brother Paul (Barbara) Gove. Sons Chuck and Jason Gove from a previous marriage. His wife since 7/05/1974, Sylva Jolynn Pearce, Son Colin (Nicole Reid) Gove, Daughter Amy (David) Black, Grandchildren, Devin (Court) Wiegman, Dax (Abby) Gove, Autumn (Zane) Black, Morgan (Sean) Black, Bonus granddaughter Maelee Reid and 2 great grandchildren, Gabe and Valkyrie Wiegman.

David was born and raised in Salt Lake City. He attended West High School and got licensed as a Diesel Mechanic from Utah Community Tech College. David was a cook for the U.S. Army. David was known as a “fighter” from childhood days to fighting health issues for the last 30 years. He worked for Custom Mill, Milling Barite that is used in drilling for oil. He ended his work days as a dispatcher. David was a complicated and loving son, husband, father and grandfather. He struggled with communicating to those he cared for. Being a grandfather was his specialty and there was no miscommunication for the love between him and his grandchildren. David was an avid TV and Movie enthusiast, which showed in his vast collection of films and movies. Sharing stories, films and laughter was his way of connecting with the people he loved and cared about. Those close to him will forever remember the nicknames he gave them, a quiet expression of affection that was uniquely his.

To honor David’s request there will be no services held. 

Possible Celebration of Life may be announced at a later date. In memory of David a Donation to The Heart Association would be appreciated.

David’s favorite saying when loved ones were leaving his house was “Loved you First” in response to their love wishes. His family would like to respond to that with we loved you last and will love and miss you forever.