Gary Ott Obituary
Gary William Ott, former Salt lake County Recorder, died from Alzheimer's Disease on the morning of October 19, 2017 while surrounded by his loved ones in Saint George, Utah. Gary is survived by his brother Martin C. Ott (Ilene), and his sister, Kathy Chamberlain (Brent) and Kristine Williams (Danny) and many nieces and nephews.
Gary was born in Panguitch, Utah on April 11th, 1951 to McCune Charter Ott and Mary Faye Palmer Ott. As a child, Gary lived in Colorado, Texas, Utah and Nevada following his father's career with the National Park Service. Gary graduated from high school in Cedar City, Utah. After graduation, Gary enlisted with the Utah National Guard and then the regular army where he was stationed in Germany and served until 1976.
While in the service, he traveled extensively throughout Europe. He was proud of his time spent in the military serving our country. Utah State University was his next stop. He graduated from USU with a degree in photography & art. Later, Gary was a part owner and operator of Apple Lab a commercial photo lab in Salt Lake City.
The digital age spelled the end of film processing, but fortunately Gary quickly became very involved in adventure travel and went on to lead several photo safaris to Africa and the Arctic. He also worked in advertising and for the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Politics was Gary's true love; nothing made him happier than campaigning for his friends and himself.
He spent countless hours driving his blue campaign van around the county putting signs up. Gary was devoted to his office and took great pride in running it well. Gary will be remembered for his quick wit and contagious laugh, beautiful photography, devotion to service to his office and love for "his people". He loved animals, especially dogs, and had a magnetic attraction to classic cars.
He and his former wife and special friend Mary Corporon enjoyed many road trips in their Corvette convertible. He was a devoted public servant and made a positive difference in many lives. He was deeply loved by his family and friends and will be missed. Services will be held at the Cannonville, Utah chapel at 1pm, October 28th, 2017.
Visitation will be from 11:30 to 12:45, prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cure Alzheimer's Fund, 34 Washington Street, Suite 200, Wellesley Hills, MA 02481. Burial in the Tropic cemetery under the direction of Mosdell Mortuary.
