Carlyle Burton

Carly Burton, age 78, of West Jordan, Utah passed away peacefully on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026, surrounded by the family he so deeply loved.

Carly was born on January 28, 1948, in Helper, Utah to Carlyle and Antoinette Burton. He was raised with deep Italian roots and traditions that shaped his values and remained central to his life. He proudly carried those traditions forward, sharing them generously with family, friends, and anyone lucky enough to sit at his table. Carly graduated from Utah State University with a bachelor's degree in Hydrological Engineering, beginning a lifelong dedication to water, service, and community.

On June 7, 1969, Carly married the love of his life, Barbara Jean. Together they built a beautiful life and raised three incredible children: Jeff, Michelle (Ronnie), and Eileen (Brett). Carly's greatest joy was his family, which expanded to include eight beloved grandchildren-Randy, Autumn, Bailey, Carli, Tia, Aly, Kendra, and Zander. Five treasured great‑grandchildren: Beckett, Levin, Mia, Addy, and Henry.  He also leaves Milly, his favorite puppy, whose legendary story began in a bar in Lava Hot Springs.

Carly built his life around family, faith, service to others, and his Italian heritage. He had an extraordinary gift for making everyone feel welcome-no one was ever a stranger in his presence. Guests were greeted with open arms, an incredible Italian dinner, a glass of his favorite vino, and, when gathered, Carly's famous traditional Italian toast. To say Carly was bigger than life is an understatement; his warmth and spirit filled every room he entered.

A man of quiet strength and unshakable integrity, Carly moved through the world with compassion and humility. He believed leadership was rooted in love, gentleness, and consistency, not authority. To Carly, being "incredible" meant showing up, being kind, and making others feel seen, safe, and valued. Carly's legacy is one of love, generosity, faith, and connection. He leaves behind a family bound by his example, a community better for having known him, and countless lives forever touched by his kindness.

Carly dedicated many years to Utah Power and Light, where he built a respected career before retiring. He then went on to serve for 29 years as Executive Director of the Utah Water Users Association, becoming a driving force in the water community. He also served on the NWRA Board and formed countless friendships that lasted a lifetime. His work was marked not only by expertise but by deep respect for people and collaboration.

A committed Mason, Carly was a longstanding member of the Free and Accepted Masons of Utah, Canyon Lodge #13; Christopher Diehl Lodge #19, where he served as Past Master and the Order of the Eastern Star, Adah Chapter #16, serving as Past Worthy Grand Patron. In recognition of his service and character, Carly received the Hyrum Award, the highest honor in Masonry.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carlyle and Antoinette Burton, his brother, Lewis Burton, and many cherished family members and friends.

A funeral will be held Friday April 17, 2026, at 2:00 pm at St. James Episcopal Church,

7486 Union Park Ave., Midvale, Utah.  - Carlucci said there will be no lasagna, so eat before you come!

"Salud Paisano Tiamo La Vita Bella Familia Ki Chindon"

And what does this mean?!

Health to you Italian Brother. I love you and wish a Beautiful Life to the Family for a Hundred Years