Donald Ray Mayer passed away peacefully surrounded by his children and his wife on Thursday, September 7, 2023. Our hearts are full of gratitude and sadness even though we know he left this earth just in time to make his evening tennis match.
Don was born August 22,1939 in Harvey, North Dakota to George and Lillian Mayer. In 1948, the family of 9 along with several uncles, moved to Milford, Utah to continue the family farming legacy. Don attended the Thunderbird Adventist Academy in Scottsdale, AZ for his middle and some high school years leaving with a pilot’s license. After high school he owned and operated Don’s Chevron. He married Judith Marie Miller on March 25,1961. Don began his college journey in Cedar City and later finished with an accounting degree at the University of Utah after moving to Bountiful in 1967. Among Don’s many business interests and being the entrepreneur he was, he began an in-room movie business in 1974 (Inn Room Movies) which ultimately parlayed into the creation of Universal Business Insurance in 1990 where his original focus was insuring Hotels and Motels. His two surviving children, Donnette and Brett have continued on this legacy. He loved dealmaking and collaborating with clients. He loved to play golf and tennis and stunned many a younger player with his ability to out strategize them. He was a generous man and was beloved by the many that he discreetly helped. His jovial laugh and booming voice were instantly recognizable and the grandkids had many a laugh at his antics.
After his stroke in August 2017, some of his fondest activities became attending church service, listening to hymns and teasing the CNA’s that surrounded him. Many life lessons have been learned through the experience and challenges of his mortal journey.
Don was preceded in death by his wife Judith; daughter Cheryl; brothers Jeri and George Mayer; his parents George and Lillian Mayer; and many friends. We find comfort in the knowledge of his reunion with these loved ones.
Don was lucky to find love again by marrying Cindy Carter of West Yellowstone on November 13, 2015.
He is survived by his wife Cindy Mayer; daughter Donnette Mayer; son Brett (Trinnie) Mayer; his grandchildren McKenna, Preston, Paige, Isabella, Peyton, Patrick, Phinneas, Phillip, Phoenix; and one great grandchild Emberly; his siblings Marilyn (Paul) Dubois, Karen (Paul, deceased) Leigh, Tom (Kimberly) Mayer, and Doug (Lisa) Mayer.
Friends are invited to greet his family during the viewing on Sunday, September 17th from 1:00 to 2:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 E. Dimple Dell Rd. (10600 S.), Sandy. Followed by a celebration of life from 3:30 to 5:30 PM at The Chateau at the Rose Shop, 1910 E. Dimple Dell Rd. Sandy.
To view previously held services please click on the link provided https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/pg1fjYluD153wBYgWz7P4-jlQnZcVto59q0D-3m6aQRuME1cOa5h7taWpnH0BZga.GauxU57IVSP9cd9V?startTime=1694979201000