Gary Rodney Stoddard

Gary Rodney Stoddard, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and loyal friend, passed away peacefully at home on September 5, 2026, surrounded by his loving family following a courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease. He was 85 years old. Truly "one of the good guys," Gary leaves behind a legacy of bravery, kindness, and an unshakeable willingness to help anyone in need.

Gary was born on April 16, 1941, in Los Angeles, California, the middle child of Ethel Eleanor Brown and George Francis Stoddard. He grew up in Salt Lake City, graduating from East High School in 1960. It was in the third grade that Gary met the love of his life, Sydney Osterloh. The high school sweethearts married in 1964 and shared a beautiful, enduring 62-year love story. Together, they built a life rich with memories, raising two children and later welcoming three grandchildren and a great-grandson.

Helping others was written into Gary's DNA. He proudly served in the Air Force National Guard before following in the footsteps of his father and brother by joining the Salt Lake City Fire Department. Gary served as a firefighter and EMT for 30 years, staying close with his crew throughout his retirement. His service extended far beyond his shifts; he was the man who instinctively stopped to help stranded motorists, tow disabled boats, pull stuck snowmobiles out of drifts, or administer first aid to anyone in need.

An avid and exceptionally skilled outdoorsman, Gary loved to hunt, camp, boat, and ski. In the early 1980s, Gary, Sydney, and their children built a cherished family cabin at Strawberry Reservoir, spending over 30 years at Soldier Creek Estates, where Gary also served on the HOA board. A natural guide, he led friends on countless snowmobile and ATV excursions, always ensuring his crew was safe and having fun. Gary and Sydney also shared a lifetime love for Lake Powell, visiting multiple times each summer since the lake first filled. In retirement, they hosted countless groups on a large houseboat, teaching generations how to water ski and leading adventurous canyon hikes. Gary had a gift for friendship because he truly knew how to be a friend.

Though his final years presented challenges as his Alzheimer's progressed, Gary's gentle, generous spirit never wavered. He will forever be remembered for his genuine smile and ready helping hand.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, G. Lee Stoddard. He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Sydney Osterloh Stoddard; his daughter, Brooke Stoddard Vargas (Eric); his son, Cody George Stoddard; his three grandchildren, Elise Vargas, Evan Vargas, and Brielle Vargas; and his great (and wonderful) grandson, Oliver Scott Crawford. He is also survived by his sister, Debbie Stoddard Draney (Dee), as well as many loving nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 11, 2026, at 12:00 noon at the Top of the World Ward, located at 8100 Top of the World Drive, Cottonwood Heights, Utah. A viewing will be held prior to the service from 10:45 AM to 11:45 AM. A reception will take place at the same location immediately following the funeral service, with interment to follow at the Riverton City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Gary's memory to the Alzheimer's Association to support research and care.

The services will be livestreamed for those unable to attend at the following link: Zoom Link