Arthur Oleen Dummer

Surrounded by his loving family, Arthur Oleen Dummer passed away January 23, 2025, fulfilling his final promise to his sweetheart Georgia that he wouldn’t be far behind her. In his 91 years of life, he became a legendary actuary, an avid reader, “grammar stickler”, an expert Bridge player, storyteller, dancer, singer, music lover, art collector, philanthropist, and philosopher. He was a remarkable patriarch of three successive, wonderful families, and his legacy of love, wisdom, and adventure will stay with us forever.

The staff at Alta View Hospital in Sandy did their best at making the last moments of his life comfortable and painless; including referring to him as “Your Honor” at his witty request.

During the evening of January 22 his seven children made the decision to remove life support and allow his breathing to still naturally. It was time for the sun to set on this "experiment" and a new journey to begin.

Arthur Oleen Dummer was born on December 9, 1933, in Sugar City, Idaho, to William Oleen and Mary Delora Bates Dummer. He was raised in Burley, Idaho, alongside his five siblings: Mavis, Nola Belle, Eola, Laird, and Janet. He attended Burley High School where he was an outstanding academic and athlete. He left such an impression that nine years later when Laird started school many of his sports trophies were still in display cabinets and coaches mixed the two names on a regular basis. Art’s work ethic and sense of adventure thrived in summers when he baled hay and worked side jobs such as evicting skunks from under the houses of his neighbors.

After high school, Art began studying psychology at the University of Utah (U of U) and was poised to earn his Bachelors; mysteriously, he switched majors and finished with a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics and science, graduating with honors. He went on to pioneer a career in the emerging field of actuarial science, becoming the first accredited Fellow Actuary in the state of Utah—a groundbreaking achievement that paved the way for a distinguished career.

At age 24, Art Dummer married his first wife Valeen Yvonne Bell, and together they raised four children. After their divorce in 1983, he married Leslea Nan Lorenz, welcoming three beloved daughters into his life. Following Leslea’s passing in 2004, Art married Georgia McMillan Bickmore in 2007, embracing her five sons and their families as his own. Art leaves behind a rich legacy of children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and in-laws whose lives added to the textures of his own.

A renowned leader in the life and health insurance guaranty association industry, Art was a founding father of the National Organization of Life and Health Insurance Guaranty Associations (NOLH-GA). In the past, he held Chairman and/or Director positions at countless insurance companies before founding his own firm, the Donner Company in 1985. A Member of The American Academy of Actuaries, his wisdom and leadership were instrumental in protecting policyholders during times of financial instability.

Art’s professional expertise and dedication to his field led him to become a highly respected testifying expert, sought after for his deep knowledge and insightful analysis. His work reached the highest levels of influence, as he was quoted in a landmark decision by the United States Supreme Court—an acknowledgment of his profound impact and credibility. Art also provided expert testimony before the U.S. House Ways and Means Subcommittee and the Senate Finance Committee, where his insights helped shape important policy discussions. His ability to communicate complex issues with clarity and precision earned him widespread respect among his peers and policymakers alike. His career spanned decades and he never officially retired; his contributions will echo throughout the world of Actuarial Science for years to come.

Art developed a deep passion for the serenity and adventure of Lake Powell. A lack of a few survival items made him the subject of many adventure stories that will be passed on for generations. He spent countless days house boating, water-skiing, and exploring the intricate maze of canyons that make the lake so unique. What began as a personal retreat soon evolved into a lifelong tradition that continued through his 80s, as he shared his love for the lake with family, friends, neighbors, church friends, and professional colleagues.

Art was a lifelong volunteer and always willing to help. He never hesitated to assist a stranded boater at Lake Powell, or a dehydrated hiker or camper in the wilderness. He even picked up a hitchhiker every now and then. A dedicated supporter of the Boy Scouts of America, he found great fulfillment in introducing young scouts to the wonders of the outdoors, teaching them valuable life skills, and fostering a love of adventure and nature. He was once recognized with the Silver Beaver award, the Boy Scouts’ highest honor for exceptional service.

Art had a profound love for music. His rich baritone vibrato was lovely. It reverberated from the walls of his venue blanketing people with peace, hope, celebration and laughter. He nourished an appreciation of music within his children and grandchildren. It came as no surprise to anyone that when his granddaughter invited him to a classical music concert performed by promising young musicians at Gifted Music School, he fell in love. He was Board Chair at Gifted Music School for over 10 years and he remained on the board to his death. He and his then wife, Georgia founded The Georgia and Arthur Dummer Scholarship Fund at the school. Over the years he personally funded music lessons for grandchildren and other promising young students. He even drove them to lessons, attended their recitals, and celebrated their achievements with pride.

Art was a passionate basketball fan which stemmed from his years playing the sport in high school. He held season tickets to the Utah Stars until they went bankrupt in 1975. Enter the Utah Jazz. From their debut at the Salt Palace on June 8th, 1979 (where he was one of the first to purchase season tickets) to the end of his days, Art loved the Utah Jazz. He even flew to Chicago to watch his beloved Jazz play their final game against the Chicago Bulls in the NBA Finals of 1998. He was generous with his season tickets and shared them without a second thought. Whether it was on TV with a giant bowl full of air popped popcorn and a couch; or center court fifteen rows up; courtside with Arthur Dummer became one of the favorite activities of many of his children, grandchildren and all manner of acquaintances.

Art often mentioned the importance of friends and relationships. He credited them with his longevity, continued happiness and vibrant life even after being widowed twice. Art felt relationships were intimate experiences that touched every aspect of life: personal and professional. These exchanges travel with us beyond, and their impact overlaps and spreads in ever widening circles, continuing to affect others even after death. Some of these connections sprouted into lifelong communities like “The Bridge Club” and the local Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints choir, where Art was always a beloved member. Those fortunate enough to be with him held the highest respect for him, never speaking negatively. From deliberately selecting the perfect book for his friends, children and grandchildren; engaging in conversation concerning all the knowledge he had acquired through his voracious reading habits; to long distance motorcycle trips and “putting the hammer down” while driving his boat at Lake Powell, he always had a way to make each person feel special and loved.

Art will be remembered for his tight hugs, laughing smiles, and generous heart. And also for his tendency to wander off the path—and find adventure and contentment there.

Arthur is survived by his brother Laird (Vaudys) Dummer, sister Janet Putnam, former wife Valeen Crawford, children Cindy (Allen) McCandless, Caryn (Andy) Johnson, Celia (Bill) Underwood, Marc (Jody) Dummer, Mindy (Kelso) Lokey, Jen Dummer, and Leslea Hunter. He also leaves behind cherished step-children Tony (Ana), Barry (Teresa), Kurrin (Deanie), Brandon (Jennifer), and Chace (Tori) Bickmore as well as an extensive network of grandchildren and great- grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, sisters, wife Leslea, and wife Georgia; and his great-grandson, Rowan Schroeder.

In lieu of flowers, please honor Arthur with your contribution to the Georgia M. and Arthur O. Dummer Scholarship Fund at Gifted Music School.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 1 at 11:00 am at Sandy Utah Lone Peak Stake (11570 S Wasatch Blvd Sandy, Utah 84092). Family and friends are invited to gather beforehand at the same location from 9:30 - 11:00 am. A viewing will be held on Friday at 6:00 - 7:30 pm at Larkin Sunset Gardens (1950 E 10600 S Sandy, Utah).

To watch a recording of the service, please click on the tab above that says "Watch Service" or follow this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/qMfO0s3k4L6dn4LtlsEy3VUO8yEIQlqCHnQwvNy0YDFMvdpayn1zp5iwh6dg2TBC.DCK4YK3eRio8U9L-?startTime=1738430872000