Robert Leon Bird

In Loving Memory Robert Leon Bird August 19, 1946 - February 27, 2026 Salt Lake City, Utah .

Robert Leon Bird, age 79, passed away on February 27, 2026, in Salt Lake City, Utah, due to complications following heart surgery. Robert was born on August 19, 1946, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Mary and Rex Bird. He graduated from Granite High School and soon after dedicated his life to service - both spiritual and patriotic.

From 1965 to 1967, he faithfully served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Australia. He later honorably served his country as a Vietnam Veteran in the United States Army from March 1968 to 1970, where he was awarded the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star for his bravery and sacrifice.

Robert married the love of his life, Dawn Elaine Stewart, in the Salt Lake City Temple. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and hard work. Professionally, he worked in the glass industry as a glazier, sales estimator, and draftsman, taking great pride in his craftsmanship.

He was always excited to share the temples he had worked on, including Jordan River, Manti, St. George, and Dallas/Fort Worth. A devoted member of his faith, Robert served in the bishopric and stake presidency. He diligently served in both the Jordan River Utah Temple and the Taylorsville Utah Temple. He also gave generously of his time as a Scout Master, mentoring and guiding young men in his community.

Robert loved the outdoors - fishing, boating, hunting, and spending treasured time at the family cabin. As a self-proclaimed "fat, bald mental midget," he ran not one but two marathons - including the St. George Marathon in under four hours. Above all else, he loved his family deeply and wholeheartedly. He was known as the family movie buff and had a special love for Star Wars, The Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, and Indiana Jones. Whether quoting lines or sharing favorite scenes, he brought joy and enthusiasm to every gathering.

Those who knew Robert loved his humor, loyalty, steady presence, and deep devotion to his family. His favorite saying was, "You're as funny as a one-legged man in a butt-kicking contest," always delivered with a grin - though he had many others.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Dawn; his children: Melissa (Marlin) Denning, Nate (Emily) Bird, Matt (Courtney) Bird, and Emily (Amos) Bright; 16 grandchildren; and 1 great-grandchild.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, March 5, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at McDougal Funeral Home, 4330 S Redwood Rd, Taylorsville, Utah 84123. Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 6, at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2976 Winchester Drive, West Valley City, Utah 84119. A viewing will be held prior to the service from 10:00-10:45 a.m.