Kent Howard Bawden

Kent Howard Bawden, 89, passed away surrounded and supported by loved ones on September 22, 2026. His life exemplified service and love - both giving and receiving. We know that there are many reunions and immense joy happening for him now.

He was born December 1, 1936, and eagerly welcomed as the youngest child and only son to Smith & LaVern Bawden. He had an ideal childhood growing up next door to grandparents and other extended family and was blessed with the tender mercy of finishing his life the same way - in the apartment next door to a dear niece. He loved family! Being with family was his comfort place and made him happy.

Kent married his childhood sweetheart and beloved "Trudy" Mary Gertrude Price. He adored her and longed to be with her again these past 10 years & 7 months. For 3,865 days he would wake and say, "well Trudy, we're another day closer". When asked in his final days if he was ready to be with her his reply was "anytime, anywhere". He was a devoted family man and was so proud of every person in his family. He was an amazing example and teacher of life lessons. He modeled integrity, endurance, choosing positivity, hope, and gratitude. He is beloved by his four daughters: Sandy (Karl) Jorgensen, Patty (Chet) Nichols, Julie (Doug) Howell, Mary (Eric) Dalling; 14 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. Whenever we'd tell him we loved him his response was always the same, "Not as much as your mom/grandma and I love you!" He lovingly took care of us, and it has been an honor as his family to love, care for, and watch over him these past few years.

Kent impacted many lives. He was known throughout his work career as an honest and trustworthy man and developed many long-term friendships there. He was a devoted faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in several positions including Missionary, Bishop, Stake President, YM President, Temple Worker, and Patriarch. He loved his Savior and cherished his testimony and special friendships that were forged during a lifetime of serving his Heavenly Father. He loved the temple and was dedicated to that work. He had a soft heart for anyone in need and never hesitated to try and help. When he couldn't physically do that anymore, he offered words of kindness and expressed thanks to carry his heart-felt love, appreciation, and gratitude to those around him. He was a gentle man.

He was preceded in death by his wife Trudy; parents Smith and LaVern; sisters Elaine, Joyce, Olive; and great-grandson Baker; and many other extended family members and friends he held dear.

A special thanks to the wonderful staff at Meadow Peak Assisted Living and True North Health & Hospice for treating our dad like he was your dad or grandpa. He loved you and considered you part of his family!

The funeral services for Kent will be held on Friday, October 9, 2026, beginning at 12:00 PM (noon) at the LDS Church located at  4505 Brians Way, West Valley City, Utah 84119.  There will be a public viewing before the service, starting at 10:00 AM at the same location.

Interment will be on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Valley View Memorial Park located at 4415 West 4100 South, West Valley City, Utah 84120, with a Graveside Service beginning at 11:00 AM.