Talmadge Dale Robinson

Talmadge Dale Robinson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, returned to his eternal home at the age of 95, on March 20, 2026. He was born on March 6, 1931, in the Latter-day Saints Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Kathleen Annie Breslin and Lynn Talmadge Robinson. His childhood unfolded across several neighborhoods in the Salt Lake Valley, each developing and shaping the quiet empathy, resilience, and kindness that defined him throughout his life.

Those lovingly keeping his memory alive are his children—Lanette Graves (Robert), Lane Robinson (Jamie), Julie Smith (Michael), Carolyn Dailey (Kenneth), and Amy Eklof (Carl)—as well as his many treasured grandchildren: Kerry Graves, Bonnie Graves, James Graves, Ryan Graves, Megan Moss, Nathaniel Robinson, Brandon Robinson, Cayla Teahan , Kathleen Baker, Michael Smith, Maren Muniz, Elliot Eklof, Kenny Dailey, Kristyn Dailey, and numerous beloved great-grandchildren.

Talmadge, affectionately known as Tam, was a man of many talents. Quietly observant and patient, he was known for being a friend even to the unfriendly and had an effortless way of putting others at ease in conversation. He was the king of dad jokes, especially with strangers in the grocery store line or on a walk through the neighborhood. He relished a simple ice cream cone, especially from Colter Bay, where he spent many cherished summer vacations with his family. In the Tetons and Yellowstone, he presided as “king of the grill,” pancake turner in hand, creating memories steeped in tradition and full of joy.

Creativity and craftsmanship were interwoven throughout Tam’s life. He was an artist, a gifted painter and a lifelong lover of music. He created beauty in form and structure wherever he went. He and his beloved wife Bonnie Claire Dipo, shared over 21 years singing with the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square, where both were featured soloists. Their voices—first united in high school performances where they met and fell in love—became a central part of their shared identity and a blessing to countless listeners.

He was a skilled craftsman, who loved bringing his designs and ideas to fruition—stone fireplaces, poured concrete patios, and finished basements. He painstakingly constructed the family’s longtime home on Post Street, where he and Bonnie lived for more than sixty years. Though the home itself is no longer in the family, the memories created there remain cherished pieces of their legacy.

A dedicated educator and administrator, Talmadge served as a beloved school principal for many years. His fairness, steadiness, and genuine interest in every child left a lasting impact on students, colleagues, and parents alike. He was known as a patient leader, a quiet problem-solver, and a walking encyclopedia—full of knowledge, history, and thoughtful insight.

Talmadge proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. His experiences while stationed in Germany were an influence throughout his life. He later served as an officer in the Utah National Guard.

A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he served in numerous callings, including Bishop, counselor in a Stake Presidency, and ultimately Stake Patriarch. While devoted to Church service, he took seriously the teaching that the most important work he could do was in the walls of his own home. He always put his family first.

A “city farmer” at heart, Tam found deep contentment while working in his vegetable garden, raising chickens and rabbits, and enjoying the companionship of the many neighborhood cats who gravitated to his gentle presence. He was well-traveled, but happiest at home—content with the rhythms of daily life, the work of his hands, and the family he loved so deeply.

Above all, Talmadge’s greatest devotion was to Bonnie, the love of his life. Their marriage was a union of harmony, faith, and steadfast love. Since her passing in 2011, he missed her dearly and looked forward to the day he would see her again. Imagining his long-awaited reunion with his eternal companion brings peace and joy to all who love them.

We look forward to joining with you in honoring Tam at the following funeral services. A viewing will be held, Sunday 29 March 2026 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 E 10600 S, Sandy, Utah 84092. An additional viewing will be held Monday 30 March 2026 in the Ashley Park Chapel of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 10312 Ashley Park Drive, Sandy, Utah 84092 from 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. The funeral service will start at 11:00 a.m.