Lee Gerald Openshaw

In Loving Memory of Lee Gerald Openshaw

Lee Gerald Openshaw, age 91, passed away peacefully on January 15, 2026, in Draper, Utah, due to conditions related to age. Born in Santaquin, Utah, on April 6, 1934, Lee was the oldest of seven children of Keith Wall and LaVerne Gledhill Openshaw.

Growing up during challenging times, Lee’s family struggled financially and moved frequently as his father sought employment. By the time Lee married at age 21, he had lived in 21 different homes. He often shared a bed with two of his brothers. Each move meant a new school, and Lee would sit in the back row, hoping to go unnoticed in his worn clothes. These experiences shaped his strong work ethic and his determination to provide a stable, comfortable home for his own family. He often remarked that as a boy, he could never have imagined living in their humble three-bedroom rambler, which he would have considered a sign of great wealth. True to the resolve forged in his youth, Lee remained in that home for over 60 years.

Lee spent many years working at Kennecott Copper before returning to school to learn the printing trade. His perfectionist approach made him highly skilled in his profession. One printing press dealer in town displayed only Lee’s work in their showroom. Eventually, Lee became self-employed, owning and operating his own print shop until his retirement.

On May 19, 1955, Lee married Lorraine Anderson in the Salt Lake Temple. Soon after he was drafted into the Army and served for 2 years at Fort Ord in Monterey, California. After his service they returned to Utah where they built their home in Sandy. Together, they raised three children there: Michael (Elke) Openshaw, Janalee (Lamont) Dorrity, and Annette (Gary) Johnson. Lee and Lorraine were proud grandparents to 12 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Lee is survived by his children and their spouses, as well as his brother Blaine Openshaw and sister Peggy Bischoff. He was preceded in death by his brothers Boyd, Deroy, Lynn, and Gene. Lee is also preceded in death by a grandson, Anthony. His beloved wife, Lorraine, passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2016. Lee deeply missed her, but her absence allowed him to indulge in burgers, fries, and Diet Coke—treats he seldom enjoyed before. He always took pride in the fact that his new diet did not cause any increase in his weight or cholesterol.

A devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Lee served as a counselor to two bishops. His favorite calling was finance clerk, a role in which his meticulous nature set a standard for others to follow. Lee lovingly cared for his parents for the last 10 years of their lives. He provided service to so many, especially his family.

Lee's legacy is one of hard work, honesty, and striving for excellence in all he did. He cherished his family, enjoyed many hobbies, and took pleasure in owning several classic cars later in life.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on January 21, 2026, with a viewing from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. that same day, at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 10600 South 1950 East, in Sandy, Utah.

To watch a recording of the funeral services, please click the blue "Watch Services" button at the top of the obituary page.