Kelly Ross Bumgardner

Kelly (Kal) Ross Bumgardner, 61, of Lehi, Utah passed away on January 18, 2024 at his home in Lehi, Utah. He is survived by his wife Julie Childs Bumgardner; his seven children, Taylor Bumgardner (Jacey), Jordan Bumgardner (Brooke), Logan Bumgardner (Sydney), Aliese Peal (Alec), Zach Bumgardner (Lindsey), Cam Bumgardner, and Jenna Bumgardner; and his grandchildren Preslee Bumgardner and Beckham Bumgardner; his mother Patricia "Trish" (Hosey) Bumgardner; his five siblings, Amber Shelby (Joe), Jennifer Bumgardner (J), Jason Baumgartner (Carolyn), Kade Bumgardner (Brooke), and Jared Bumgardner (Jill); Preceded in death by his father Ross Leon Bumgardner.
Kal was born in Logan, Utah to Ross and Trish Bumgardner on July 8, 1962. When he was five, his family moved to Richfield, Utah where he spent his childhood with his five siblings. He cherished his relationships with each of them, and continued to make spending time with them a priority throughout his life.
Kal was a popular student at Richfield High School, and enjoyed his time there. He participated in many activities including singing with the musical group Sound Celebration, playing on the football team, riding his motorcycle, and being a class clown. He was also proud to be a Seminary graduate.
After graduating from high school, Kal attended Snow College for a semester. At age 19, he accepted a call to serve as a missionary in Montevideo, Uruguay, for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Learning the Spanish language greatly benefited him in his education and career. The people of Uruguay's humble way of life and love of family changed him forever. He often spoke of the love he had for the people he served and the impact his mission had on him.
Following his mission he returned to Snow College to obtain his associates degree. He had many opportunities during this time to perform and was known for his incredible singing voice. His voice made an impact on his wife Julie when she heard him singing for the first time in Salina at the Miss North Sevier Pageant. She hadn't met him yet, but said "I fell in love with his voice first, and when I got to meet him I fell in love with him."
On a dare from friends, Kal went to the Miss Gunnison Pageant to see if he could ask Sharlene Wells out, who was Miss America at the time. Sharlene was the MC of the event. Julie was there as well since she was the First Attendant. Julie had recently torn her ACL and was in a brace after knee surgery. She came out on the stage with Sharlene and despite crutches and a knee brace, the only one Kal saw standing up there was Julie. He turned to his friend and said "Who is that?!" He didn't meet Sharlene that night, but more importantly he met Julie-the girl of his dreams!
On March 28, 1987, Kal and Julie married in the Manti Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They decided to start their family right away, and were blessed with seven beautiful children. He balanced working full time and raising his family while pursuing a Bachelors in Computer Information Systems from Weber State University. He went on to earn a Masters in Business Administration from Utah State University. During his career, he received several prestigious awards for his success in his industry. He was always goal-oriented and
taught that working through his daily checklists led to his success.
Kal was a loving and involved father to his seven children. He empowered all of his children and instilled the confidence needed to pursue any dream they had. He could always be seen on the sidelines actively engaged in the success of his kids at their various events. They loved playing music with him, competing in and watching sports, hunting and fishing in the mountains, and laughing together. His family was his primary focus and he worked hard to provide for them. His children knew they could talk to him about anything and he was good at listening to their concerns and providing heartfelt advice that they cherish. He was so proud of his
children and shared his love with them often.
In September 2013, he was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma Cancer and received continuous treatments for the next decade. His strength and faith throughout the many years of treatment was an example to all who knew him. Despite the fatigue of treatment he continued to work full time to provide for his family. He spoke often of the blessings he received that sustained him and allowed him to carry out his rigorous work responsibilities.
Kal had many talents that he was passionate about. He loved music. He could often be found singing and playing the guitar. He had a powerful and beautiful voice, and had many opportunities to perform at different events. He enjoyed playing and performing in a band with his sons called Life Threads. There was always music in his family's home which connected them and brought joy.
Kal loved camping, hunting, and fishing and being outdoors with his family. His favorite place to go was Seven Mile Creek by Fish Lake. He said this was a place where he felt God. He drew strength from his time in nature.
Kal was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He had a deep understanding and testimony of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. His love for the Savior led him to constantly improve his relationship with his Heavenly Father, deepen his understanding of the Gospel, and be a devoted disciple. He loved serving as Elders Quorum President, High Priest Group Leader, Young Men's Leader, and Gospel Doctrine Teacher in addition to his other callings. He worked diligently with his five sons in the scouting program and helped them obtain many honors.
Our family is deeply grateful to the talented doctors and nurses at The Huntsman Cancer Institute for the excellent treatment and loving care they provided. In addition, we would like to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation for the many years of service, love, and support we have received from friends, family, neighbors, and ward members. Your thoughtfulness has lightened our load and blessed our lives.
His family is comforted at this time with their knowledge that they will see him again. Kal's life is an example of how to really live! He taught his children how to laugh until their stomachs' hurt, how to love with their whole hearts, how to be kind and compassionate, and how to be faithful to the gospel of Jesus Christ through life's challenges. He knew what he was working towards, which was focused on what he could take with him after this life.
A Funeral service will be held on Saturday January 27 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 127 East 3200 North Lehi, Utah at 12:00 pm. A viewing will be held at the church on Friday January 26 from 6:00-8:00 pm and also form 9:00-11:30 am before the funeral. Interment Lehi City Cemetery.