Steven Rex Shirts

Steven Rex Shirts, 74, of Mapleton, Utah, passed away Saturday, October 25, 2025. Steven was born Sept 12, 1951 in Hailey, Idaho to Rex Myron Shirts and Elizabeth Maude Harvey. He married his sweet wife, Robin Christine Purcell, on December 27, 1972 in the Logan Utah Temple.

Steven was an OB-GYN physician, having received a bachelor’s degree in zoology at BYU and doctorate at the University of Washington School of Medicine. A Major in the United States Army, Steven honorably served his beloved country while refining his skills as a physician. Following his military service, Steven established a private practice in West Jordan, Utah. He then pivoted to working as both physician and educator for the University of Iowa and Oregon Institute of Technology. He received Educator of the Year accolades from both institutions. A lover of the outdoors, Steven was a life-long fisherman and hiker – particularly in the Sawtooth Mountains. He later enjoyed painting those beautiful outdoor scenes. He was active in the Boy Scouts of America throughout his life embodying both the Scout Oath and Law. He received his Eagle Scout before volunteering as a Cub and Scout Master and was honored with the Silver Beaver award while acting as a District Commissioner. Steven’s first job was as a radio DJ at KSKI and he always cherished the chance to share his favorite music. He enjoyed collecting stamps and baseball memorabilia and cheering on his BYU Cougars. Steven was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and shared his deep love of Jesus Christ while serving as a ministering brother, Primary Teacher, Bishopric Counselor, Young Single Adults Branch President, and High Counselor. He was an adoring spouse, a guiding father, a playful grandpa and a friend to all.

Steven is survived by his five children: Stacie (Dustin) Ivory of Timnath, Colorado; Micah (Shannon) Shirts of Elizabethtown, Kentucky; Ellen (Joshua) Haws of North Canton, Ohio; Keith (Shirsten) Shirts of Provo, Utah; Grant (Nikol) Shirts of Las Vegas, Nevada; 18 grandchildren – Tate, Jonah, Kate, Jill, Lincoln, Elliot, Evelyn, Andrew, Lucy, Stella, Nolan, Saige, Vivian, Samuel, Brynn, Benjamin, Clive, Faye – and Brad the cat.

Funeral services will be held November 3rd, 11:00 AM at the Mapleton Second Ward Chapel at 475 North 1600 West, Mapleton, Utah. A viewing for the family and friends of Steven will be held Sunday, November 2, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Wheeler Mortuary Mapleton, located at 82 West 400 North in Mapleton, and on November 3rd, just prior to the funeral service from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM at the church. Burial will be in the Mapleton Cemetery at 620 West Maple Street in Mapleton following the service.

We acknowledge and lovingly appreciate the many acts of kindness and support for our family. Thank you for loving Steven as much as we do.

Condolences may be expressed to the family on this page.