Jody Keith Malmgren
Jody Keith Malmgren, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, public servant, and loyal friend, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, July 19, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by his loving family.
Jody was born on March 28, 1949, in Salina, Utah, to J. Keith Malmgren and JoBerta Ann Averett. As the oldest of five children, he learned responsibility early, working alongside his grandfather, father, and uncle, tending bees and farming. Those experiences instilled in him the values of hard work, integrity, and service.
He proudly served in the United States Navy from 1967 to 1970 as a Navy Seabee, with additional years in the Naval Reserve, for a total of six years of service. He served from 1968 to 1969 on Midway Island as a Fire Damage Controller, and from 1969 to 1970 in Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam, discharging from active duty as a Petty Officer Second Class.
Following the Teton Dam disaster, he spent two years working to help rebuild power lines in the Rexburg, Idaho, area. Throughout his life, he also served as an EMT, Mine Rescue team member, Gunnison Valley Police Officer, Sanpete County Sheriff’s Deputy, Volunteer firefighter, and member of Sanpete County Search and Rescue. He worked as the head mechanic at Freedom Ford for many years and spent more than 30 years at SUFCO Coal Mine, retiring at age 76 due to cancer.
Above all, his devotion to family was paramount. He faithfully attended the events of his daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, no matter the distance. His grandchildren adored him, and he loved them beyond measure.
Jody found joy in the simple traditions that became the rhythm of his life. For more than four decades, Jody did not miss a single year at the National Finals Rodeo. Since it came to Las Vegas in 1985, he has rarely missed a performance, with illness being one of the only things that could keep him away. Jody loved fishing, especially catfishing, and then thoroughly enjoyed having a battered fish fry to share with family and friends.
Most evenings ended just the way Jody liked them, taking a quiet drive around town, enjoying a Quorum cigar, listening to Louis L’Amour westerns, or gripping crime thrillers on tape; finishing the night off sitting on his back porch enjoying Crown Royal. Those moments
of peace and solitude were among his favorites.
When he was at home, it was a safe bet that a John Wayne western or an episode of COPS was playing on the television. Jody also treasured his weekly “mutton and sourdough” gatherings with lifelong friends playing poker, eating good food, and enjoying the camaraderie. Jody had a way of finding happiness in life’s simple pleasures. Those who knew him will forever remember the traditions he cherished and the countless memories he created along the way.
He is survived by his daughters Cheryl Ann Hansen (Jed), Holly Marie Chappell (George), and Marci Nicol (Keith); Grandchildren Whitney, Stockton, Jaden, Brennen, Alyssa, Maci, Emme, Millie, and Tripp; great-grandchildren Link, Axel, Cinch, Tuff, and Hudson; siblings Craig H. Malmgren, Sherrie Telford (Joe), Van L. Malmgren (Shari), and Cindy Willden. He was preceded in death by his parents, J. Keith Malmgren and JoBerta Ann Averett.
His legacy is one of service, humility, loyalty, and unconditional love.
Funeral Services for Jody Malmgren will be held Monday, July 27, 2026 at 11 a.m. at the Centerfield Chapel. Viewings will be held at the church Sunday, July 26 from 6-8 p.m., and prior to services on Monday from 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Interment will be in the Centerfield Cemetery. Online guestbook and a live streaming of the services available at maglebymortuary.com. Funeral Directors: Magleby Mortuary, Richfield, Salina and Manti.