Theodore "Ted" Milner

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith."

Theodore Joseph Milner (Ted), 62, passed away suddenly on Saturday, November 15, 2025, while doing what he loved most, preparing a meal for his family. Born on November 21, 1962, in Salt Lake City to Ralph Richard Milner and Giovanna Fortunata Furano Milner, Ted was the fifth of six children. True to his name, a gift of God, he was a gift to his family and a steady compass through the ups and downs of life. As a child, his gentle nature endeared him to everyone. Teachers and leaders often recognized his maturity, wisdom, and natural leadership.

Ted attended South High School, where he was recognized as a Sterling Scholar in Vocational Arts. After high school honorably served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Washington, D.C. Ted earned a Bachelor of Science in Economics and a second bachelor's degree in Architecture, both from the University of Utah.

He met Kerry Ann Hill at a dance, an encounter that sparked a lifelong love story. From that night on, Kerry was the love of his life. Ted adored her with a devotion that was steady, tender, and eternal. He cared for her with quiet acts of service, deep respect, and a softness that revealed the truest parts of his heart. They were married and sealed on August 8, 1986, in the Salt Lake City Temple. They are the devoted parents of Andrew, Katelyn (Ammon) Packer, Claire (Josh) Beck, and Ryan (currently serving in the Italy Rome Mission), and grandparents to Logan, Remi, Axel, Owen, and Thea, all of whom adored Ted as their "Papa."

After beginning with a part-time job pushing a broom at Fetzer's, Ted built a remarkable 45-year career in architectural woodworking and design. His talent and work ethic led to leadership positions with Fondell Woodwork, Bud Bailey Construction, Magleby Construction, JLR, and Precision Millwork. One of his great joys was contributing to the construction and beautification of many LDS temples worldwide, including the Nauvoo and Rome temples, fulfilling a lifelong dream. Known for integrity, discernment, problem-solving, and warm humor, he was widely admired and deeply trusted.

Ted had a jovial spirit and a deep love for cooking, a passion inherited from his Italian grandfather, la cucina era il suo cuore,"the kitchen was his heart." There he expressed himself most naturally, creating meals that brought people together. An exceptional chef, he fed family, friends, and anyone who entered his kitchen. No one ever walked into Ted's home without being fed. Ted had a gift for embracing people of every background and walk of life. People felt safe, welcomed, and deeply loved in his presence.

A man of unwavering faith, Ted served in many church callings, including missionary service, Gospel Doctrine teacher, Elders Quorum leadership, Bishopric, Stake High Council, and most recently as a Nursery leader and proud operator of the bubble machine.

Diagnosed with heart failure nine years ago, Ted faced every challenge with courage and devotion. Like Paul, he truly "fought the good fight" and "kept the faith."

Ted is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren. His mother and siblings: Frank Milner, Sheran Milius, Joanne Milner, and Sam Milner. He was preceded in death by his father, and his brother, Richard Milner.

An evening viewing will be held Friday, November 21, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. in the Olpin Family Mortuary Chapel ,494 South 300 East, Pleasant

Grove, Utah.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in the North Field Stake Center, 105 West 1800 North, Pleasant Grove, Utah. Family and friends may attend a viewing from 9:30–10:45 a.m. prior to the services. Interment will follow at the Salt Lake City Cemetery.

The family extends heartfelt thanks for the outpouring of love and support