Elna Jane Trolson

Elna Jane Yeates Trolson, 88, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2026, in Kearns, Utah.

Elna was born on January 28, 1938, in Logan, Utah to Ellis Johnson Yeates and Dora Leona Bunce Yeates. On July 5, 1954, she married Gary Neves Trolson in Nibley, Utah. Together, they built a life and raised five beautiful children, creating a family that would become one of her greatest joys.

Throughout her life, Elna worked in several different fields, beginning her career in the nutrition industry. She later became the manager of security at Salt Lake International Airport, where she formed many lasting friendships. She eventually took on another role as manager of Tesoro, where she continued working until her retirement. Wherever life took her, she built meaningful connections and lasting memories.

Elna also devoted her time to serving others through a family history mission at the LDS Church History Library from July 14, 2014, to July 14, 2015.

Above all, Elna loved her family. Being a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother brought her immeasurable joy. She treasured time spent together, whether gathered around the table for family dinners and barbecues or making memories on the road. She loved camping, visiting Yellowstone and Virginia City, spending time in Wendover, and taking trips to Logan. She even enjoyed trips to Idaho to pick up lottery tickets, finding happiness in life's simple pleasures.

Some of her most cherished moments were the lunch dates she shared with her daughter Sheila and the ladies she had worked with over the years. She also formed a particularly special friendship with Art and Cherie Ledesma, whose friendship meant so much to her.

Elna had a love for music, especially Elvis, and carried with her a deep appreciation for the experiences, friendships, and family that filled her life. The memories she created and the love she shared will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew her.

Elna is survived by her sister, Lorena (DeMar); her children, Steven (Suzanne), Sheila, Richard (Sheila), and Kent (Charlene); her grandchildren, Holly (Jurney), Eric, Nicholas, Heather (Katie), Nikki (Trisha), Jeremy, Jason (Sandra), Jennifer (Nick), Brandon, Desi, Travy (Angelina), and Heidi (Cody); and 28 great-grandchildren, all of whom are part of the family legacy she leaves behind.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ellis Johnson Yeates and Dora Leona Bunce Yeates; her beloved husband, Gary Neves Trolson; her son, Curtis; her brothers, Richard, Bruce, Clyde, and Ellis; and her sister, Dora.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Inspiration Home Health and Hospice, especially her nurse, Kevy.  Thank you for the compassion, kindness, and care you gave Elna and our family.  Your support has meant more to us than words can express.

Funeral Services

A viewing will be held on Thursday, October 29, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at McDougal Funeral Home, located at 4330 South Redwood Road, Taylorsville, Utah 84123.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 30, at 11:00am at McDougal Funeral Home, with a viewing beginning one hour prior to the service.

Graveside services will follow at Logan City Cemetery.