GILCHRIST, Vede H.

GILCHRIST

On Saturday, July 9, 2022, Vede H. Gilchrist peacefully slipped the surly bonds of Earth and returned to his heavenly home at age 90. He was a loving husband, the father of three children, and stepfather of one.

Vede was born on July 6, 1932 in Cardston Alberta Canada as the youngest child of Lee and Edna (Harker) Gilchrist. Vede was raised in Cardston, Lethbridge, and Raymond, Alberta, Canada, where he met and fell in love with Margaret Stone. They were married on October 6, 1955 in the Cardston Alberta Temple. They were blessed with three children, Stephen, Marylee, and Scott, and have 13 glorious grandchildren and 29 3/4 simply amazing great grandchildren.

He is predeceased by his sweet wife Margaret, his parents, and his five siblings, with whom we are sure he is enjoying a most joyful reunion.

Vede spent his career in management positions in Las Vegas, Phoenix, Raymond, and Cardston, capping that phase of his life by serving for eight years as the Temple Recorder in the Cardston Alberta Temple.

After his beloved Margaret passed in 1986, he moved to Arizona and then to Utah, where he met and courted the lovely Karen Diane Raby. They were married in 1996 in the Salt Lake City Temple, and Karen and her wonderful son Zach were joyfully welcomed into Vede’s family by everyone. They have been a marvelous addition to our family and an amazing blessing in all our lives. Words cannot express…

His life was distinguished by his boundless optimism. For Vede there was always a silver lining to every cloud. He loved reading, and taught his children that they can do anything they want, they just need to get the right book. He loved teaching, and fulfilled that calling many times for many groups throughout his life. His sly, wry sense of humor served him well, and lightened all his relationships.

Many of his friends and relations commented on his ability to lift and lighten their loads. He provided gentle comfort and peace for those who were struggling and mourning, never judging, always serving, always helping to lift the weight of others burdens. His kindness and unconditional love for everyone he knew was a shining point for all who knew him. He radiated light, and loved bearing the “burden of light” that was his life.

He was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and served in many positions of leadership and teaching in the Church and in the temple. His life of service in the Church and in the temple is a testimony to the depth of his convictions.

In the words of his beloved daughter, “The world and I lost a hero today. My dad was one of the most amazing men in the world. He had more unconditional love and kindness than anybody I’ve ever met in my life. My brothers and I were so lucky that we had this gentle giant in our lives! We’re so grateful for him and the man he is.”

Godspeed, dad. We love you and will miss you.