William Rowland Shaw Jr.

William Rowland Shaw Jr., known throughout his life as both “Rowland” in his early years and “Bill” in later years, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2026, in Draper, Utah, at the age of 91.

Bill was born on May 5, 1934, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to William Rowland Shaw Sr. and Mildred Larsen Shaw. An only child, he was deeply grateful for the devoted love and attention of his parents, a foundation that shaped his lifelong appreciation for family and relationships. His unique name—carrying both his given and family heritage—reflected the strong roots from which he came.

He attended South High School and went on to begin his studies at the University of Utah, where he formed lasting bonds as a member of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. During this time, he met the love of his life, Janet Engar. Their partnership would become the cornerstone of his life.

While awaiting missionary service, Bill was drafted into the United States Army during the Korean War. He served honorably for two years as a medical technician and draftsman in Germany, an experience he carried with pride throughout his life. It was during his military service that he became known as “Bill,” a name that would stay with him for the remainder of his years.

Following his service, Bill returned to the University of Utah and reunited with Janet. They were married in June of 1957 in the Salt Lake Temple, beginning a lifelong journey of love, partnership, and shared purpose. Together they built a life centered on family, faith, and service.

Bill’s professional life was marked by both dedication and versatility. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from the University of New Mexico while working in Albuquerque, and later completed his master’s degree in educational administration at the University of Utah. His early career in education included roles as a teacher, counselor, art supervisor, and university professor—positions through which he influenced and uplifted countless lives.

In 1977, Bill transitioned into development work at Utah State University, where he served as Associate Director of Development. Soon after, a pivotal opportunity brought him back to Salt Lake City, where he began a deeply fulfilling 19-year career with Utah Power & Light as Director of Government Affairs. In this role, he built lasting relationships across the state and developed a passion for golf, a game that brought him great enjoyment and connection with others.

After retiring from Utah Power & Light in 1998, Bill joined the Salt Lake Olympic Committee as Managing Director of Government Affairs, where his role expanded to include Liaison with the Cities and Towns, Interfaith Committee, Director of Assistance for the Homeless, Director of Speakers Bureau, Olympic torch route development, Director of Handicap Services and the Olympian Liaison with all present and previous Olympians attending or participating in the numerous programs. Though the pace was demanding, he deeply cherished his Olympic experience, including the honor of being selected as a torchbearer.

He briefly came out of retirement to serve as Assistant to the President at Salt Lake Community College, then later was asked by the Governor to be on Utah Workforce Appeals Board where he worked part-time for 25 years—remaining engaged and committed until retiring just two weeks prior to his passing.

A man of deep faith, Bill was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served faithfully in numerous callings, always bringing kindness, humility, and a genuine love for others. His life was a reflection of quiet service and steadfast belief.

Bill was also deeply committed to his community, offering his time and talents to organizations such as the Phi Kappa Alpha Fraternity, Utah Taxpayer Association, Utah Cancer Society, Utah Petroleum Association, American Red Cross, and Junior Achievement. He approached every role with enthusiasm and a sincere desire to make a difference.

In his later years, Bill rediscovered a love for art, particularly painting. This creative pursuit became one of his greatest joys. He found meaning in expressing his gratitude and affection by gifting his artwork to those who had touched his life—a reflection of his gracious and giving spirit.

Above all, Bill will be remembered for his unwavering positivity, his gracious nature, and his genuine interest in others. Bill had a remarkable gift for truly knowing people—he took the time to learn what mattered most to them, from their passions to their family, and made them feel genuinely valued by remembering those details long after, turning simple conversations into lasting connections.

His life was defined not only by his accomplishments, but by the kindness he extended so freely and the optimism he carried through every chapter of his life.

Bill is survived by his four children: Jeff Shaw (Cynthia), Julie Bickmore (Jack), Laura Shaw, and Leslie Hirschi (Lynn); 13 grandchildren; and 38 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Janet Shaw.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026. A visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by the funeral at 11:00 a.m. at the LDS Church, 1272 Walden Lane, Draper, Utah. A graveside service will follow at Larkin Sunset Gardens in Sandy, Utah.

Bill’s life was one of purpose, generosity, and quiet strength. He leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and enduring grace that will continue to inspire all who knew him.