Howard Francis Gemperline

Courtesy photo

+ Enlarge

Howard Francis Gemperline

September 28, 1924 ~ February 20, 2020

Howard Francis Gemperline was born on September 28, 1924 and entered into eternal life February 20, 2020 surrounded by loving family. Howard is survived by his loving wife, Eileen; children Ken (Donna), Mark (Patricia), Jim (Cathy), Pat (Jan), Joe (Jan), Marie White (Lyle), Andrew (Lisa), and Doug; as well as 25 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren, who felt his life was a blessing beyond words. He also is survived by brothers Eugene (Bernadine) and John (Sarah).

Howard was born in Portsmouth, Ohio. He lived there until entering the Army, where he served in WWII from 1942-1945. After the war, Howard credits the GI bill for allowing him to pursue a B.S. and M.S. in chemistry, as well as PhD work in atomic energy research. He was fond of telling his children, “An education is the one thing that can never be taken from you.”

Howard married Eileen Sommer on July 4, 1953 in Portsmouth, Ohio. They raised their family in Ames, Iowa; Tonawanda, New York; Fremont, Ohio and Delta, Utah.  

A lifelong Catholic, Howard’s faith was exemplified by his love for others and demonstrated daily in his interactions with his family, friends, colleagues and community. Howard and Eileen received the Madeleine Award from the Diocese of Salt Lake City for their tireless work in establishing the St. John Bosco Mission Church in Delta.

Howard was a pragmatic optimist with a love for adventure and storytelling. With an opportunity to be lead chemist for Brush/Wellman, he moved his family west to Utah to help design and operate their plant for 35 years. He quickly appreciated the natural beauty and limitless opportunities for skiing, hiking, hunting and camping.  He also enjoyed endless hours playing board games and cards with his children and grandchildren.

Despite his own illnesses, Howard dedicated his later years to caring for his beloved wife of 66 years, who is living with dementia. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff at Spring Gardens (formerly the Abbington), Brighton Home Care and Bristol Hospice for their love, dedication in care and support.

A rosary is scheduled for Saturday, March 7 at 10:30 a.m. with a Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11 a.m. at St. Vincent De Paul Church, 1375 Spring Lane, Salt Lake City.  Arrangements entrusted to Starks Funeral Parlor.