Aurel John Gavrila, 83, passed away at his home in Birdseye, UT on November 1, 2023 after a battle with Cancer.
John was born May 11, 1940, in Gary, Indiana to parents Aurel and Mary Madas Gavrila.
After attending school in Gary, John enlisted in the Navy where he served for 4 years. His mother missed him so much that she set a plate at the table for every meal until he came home.
John had a variety of jobs in his youth until he settled into food services where he excelled for a full and exceptional career that took him to many states in hospitals, nursing care, colleges, and private schools. His last job before retirement was at Wasatch Academy where he designed a new dining building for the students.
John married Emily Simes on 1-25-1962 and together they raised 4 children: Noble, John, Lauren, and Nicole. Emily passed away in 1996.
John met Mary Cloward in 1998. They were married November 26, 1999, and later sealed in the Manti Temple on July 11, 2014. They have a son Andy Gavrila and feel privileged to raise him. They feel like he keeps them young.
John enjoyed fishing and hunting, but mostly loved being on the water and many memories were made on the boat. He also enjoyed camping and cutting wood with friends and family. Family meant everything and he couldn’t wait for gatherings together.
John was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints where he was active in many different callings until his health got in the way. He loved working with the youth.
Everyone loved John with his humor and loving way. He didn’t say much, but when he did it was worth listening to. He enjoyed politics and had many conversations with others about the state of the Country and the Constitution.
John is proceeded in death by his parents, sisters-Mary and Helen, daughter Lauren, Son Jeremy Harris and recently a granddaughter Courtney Harris.
He is survived by his wife Mary, sons Noble Shaw, John (Charlotte) Gavrila, Robbie (Heather)Harris, Kaylan Harris, Andy Gavrila, daughter Nicole Gavrila, many grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
His loss has left a huge void in our lives, but we know we’ll see him again. We’re sure he’s making something good to eat in Heaven as he enjoyed doing here.
We wish to thank the staff at Maple Creek Hospice, especially his nurse Allyson, who became a friend to our family. Thanks also to the countless people who prayed and offered service to our family over this last year.
Services will be held Monday, November 6, 2023, at the Canyon Creek Ward, 2981 E 1660 S Spanish Fork, UT. There will be a viewing from 9:30-10:45 with services beginning at 11am. The interment will be at Salem Cemetery.
6 Condolences for Aurel John Gavrila
Condolences(6)
Dawn Norfleet says
November 3, 2023 at 8:12 pmYou were always the favorite ‘fun’ Uncle and will be missed so deeply by me and all of us! Memories on the boat at Canyon Lake in AZ are among my favorite times together! Your love was always unconditional! Tattoos are pretty common place these days, but I remember your advice from years ago, don’t do it ! Love you, Uncle and we will take good care of the family for you now. Love to all as we celebrate a life well lived.
Heather Harris says
November 4, 2023 at 2:41 amWe have so many wonderful memories of John on our many family trips.
John will be missed greatly.
We love you.
Love Robbie, Heather, Sienna, Hunter, Brandy, Maverick, and Raiden.
DeeAnn says
November 4, 2023 at 1:59 pmMary, so sorry to read of the passing of your sweet husband. Sounds like you found your true love. Eternity with him will be waiting. Prayers for you and your family. Sincerely, DeeAnn
Vicki Mitchell says
November 6, 2023 at 4:58 amBest home teacher ever! John and Sterling are back together again, once more looking out for there loved ones side by side this time as guardian angels. John lived as if it was his last day every day. Loving, kind, serving and devoted to our Heavenly Father. Always thinking of others and helping us be ready and prepared for the future blessings that can be ours. Thanks John for your Christ- like example. You are loved and will be missed.. Mary and Andy we love you and pray for you.
Love Kelly and Vicki Mitchell Family, Clarissa (Grant) Hatch, Kyle, Rachel, and Holly (John is the best visitor we have ever had)
Alison Roark says
November 6, 2023 at 6:53 pmYou were one of my best friends and I will never forget you! We had so many wonderful times together. Wish we could have had more! We love you John. Alison and Jeff
Cathy Coltharp says
April 12, 2024 at 5:45 pmMary, we just learned today of John’s passing. In the short time we knew him, we could see the warm and kind person he was! May the Lord bless you and Andy and the rest of the family in the coming years. We have lived in this house as long as you did now…12 years! We love it and hope to have many more years here. Love you much, Keith and Cathy Coltharp
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