Wayne Rulon Bevan

Wayne Rulon Bevan, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and lifelong learner, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2025, in Provo, Utah. Born on September 1, 1940, in Tooele, Utah, Wayne lived a life marked by service-to his country, his faith, and his family.
Wayne earned a bachelor's degree in Sociology from Brigham Young University. While at BYU, he participated in the Air Force ROTC program, laying the foundation for what would become a distinguished military career. He served as an officer and pilot in the United States Air Force and later continued his service in both the Air Force Reserve and Army Reserve. Over the course of his military tenure, Wayne flew fixed-wing aircraft including the T-29, T-37, C-141, and C-5A, as well as helicopters such as the UH-1 Huey and CH3 Sikorsky. He also served as a missile launch officer during the Cold War.
From 1969 to 1970, Wayne was stationed at Udorn Air Base in Thailand during the Vietnam Conflict. His bravery and skill were recognized with numerous honors including the Distinguished Flying Cross, Medal of National Defense, Air Force Combat Readiness Medal, Armed Forces Extraordinary Service Medal, and Republic of Vietnam Service Medal. His highest rank was that of Major in the U.S. Air Force. He retired from military service in 1992.
Wayne channeled his leadership and entrepreneurial spirit into civilian pursuits. In 1980 he founded Mariposa Aggregates, a mining business which he owned and operated until 2002. He also worked as a building contractor and found success as a real estate agent and developer.
Wayne's devotion to learning was one of his defining characteristics. He had an insatiable curiosity about the world around him-whether through reading extensively or exploring new interests. His hobbies included aviation (a passion that extended beyond his military career), photography, fishing, and studying virtually any subject that piqued his interest. When asked a question, he was famous for making sure he understood the foundation of the question before he answered.
A lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Wayne served faithfully in many callings throughout his life including an honorable mission to Scotland as a young man. Wayne married Lela Dee Kimball in the Salt Lake City temple in 1965 and raised six, according to Wayne, "competent" children. His dedication to service and his family reflected both humility, strength, and wisdom.
Wayne is lovingly remembered by his wife Lela Dee (Kimball) Bevan; their children Jennie Voorhis (Walter), Linda Hill (Kent), Collette Blackwelder (Travis), Wendy Bevan-McGauley (Dan), Robyn Marchant Damon (John), and Dr. Adam Bevan; along with 22 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Rulon Alexander Bevan and Wanda Marie Nielsen, and his son-in-law, Scott Lewis Marchant.
Wayne Rulon Bevan leaves behind a legacy of courage, faithfulness, intellectual curiosity, and unwavering love for those around him. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.
To view the service online for Wayne please click here. www.walkersanderson.com