Douglas Kemp

Douglas Earl Kemp was born on July 27, 1941, in Murray, Utah, to Earl Kemp and Leone Elizabeth Smith Kemp. He graduated from Murray High School in 1959 where he played football and raced cars. He served in the United States Army National Reserves for 6 years. While working at Granite Furniture after returning from the Reserves he met and married Vyonne DeGrey on February 4, 1965. They were later sealed in the Salt Lake Temple April 12, 1974.  Together they had five children, John “Jack” Douglas (Becky), Matthew Ruel (Mechelle), Robert Earl (Angie), Michael Stewart (Shauna), and Alissa Ann Mize (Gary).  They proudly have 27 grandchildren, including spouses, and 7 great-grandchildren and counting.

Doug was a building mechanic and engineer for US West for many years. He also taught upholstery at Granite School District. Doug could often be found in his shop refinishing a piece of furniture or woodworking. Following the lead of his wife, he was a reluctant home remodeler. Doug had a special love for cars and trucks. He could recognize any part from any car—including make and model. He took great satisfaction in caring for his vehicles and always had them in mint condition.

Doug had a love for the gospel of Jesus Christ, second only to his love for his family. He dedicated his life to service in Boys Scouts and various Church leadership roles including several bishoprics, stake executive secretary, bishop, and stake high counselor. Doug had specific spiritual gifts that will be missed by his children and family members. This includes his gift of healing and giving Priesthood blessings. Many family members and others would often seek Doug out for spiritual guidance.

Above all he was a family man; he dedicated his life to his family. He will be greatly missed.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents, and his infant twin brothers David and Daniel. He is survived by his wife and children, his siblings Russell (Marilyn) Kemp and Elizabeth (Rick) Smith, and numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved and treated as his own.

The family is thankful for all the love, prayers, and support they have received during this time. They also would like to thank the Oquirrh Dialysis Center for the love and care they have given our Dad over the last several years.

Funeral Services will be held Saturday July 31, 2021, 12 Noon at the Taylorsville 15th Ward 1457 West Atherton Drive, Taylorsville, Utah. Friends may call Friday from 6-8 pm and  Saturday from 10:30 - 11:30 at the Church. Interment will be in the Salt Lake City Cemetery 200 North “N” Street.
Directors Independent Funeral Service