Craig Ross Burgess

Craig Ross Burgess, 75, passed away unexpectedly on April 7, 2025 at his home in Fountain Green. He was born February 25, 1950 in Alpine, UT to Ross Clark and Irma Frances Atwood Burgess. The North Mountain has always been in his heart, he wanted to be buried there.

He served in the Dallas North Texas Mission, which at the time included all of North Texas. After returning home he joined the Utah National Guard in Lehi. He served in the National Guard from 1970-1977.

Shortly after his return from the National Guard, he met his wife, Larna Smith, on a blind date. They were married on February 16, 1973 in American Fork. My special sweetheart and best friend blessed us with two wonderful children, Matthew and Jennifer, who he loves dearly.

Out of all of Craig’s jobs, being a bus driver for Nebo School District was his favorite. He loved the youth and they loved him.

Craig loved the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He was ordained as a High Priest. He loved his job as young men’s president and helped send out a lot of missionaries. Being a primary teacher was the funniest and most rewarding calling he held.

He loved his yards. His family always told him his butt was shaped like a lawn mower seat. He would go out multiple times a week to mow his lawn. Neighbors and friends were always complimenting his yard.

Craig loved camping. He would camp in the yard on the tramp or in a tent or trailer. The last few years he was always camping in the trailer next to Matt’s tent, letting Matt talk him to sleep. He also enjoyed being a camp host at Ponderosa Camp Ground.

He loved his Weiner dogs and called them his kids. Snookies was always with him, never leaving his side. At 16 years old, she will not be far behind him.

His biggest joy was his family! Even though he only had Matt close by, he was always thinking about all of them. We adopted an extended grandson, Korbin. He has brought so much love, joy and happiness into our home. We miss Craig already. We take comfort in knowing we will be together forever; families are forever.

Craig is survived by his wife Larna; son Matthew Burgess; daughter Jennifer (Matt) Wilson; grandson James West; granddaughters Izzy and Abi Wilson; siblings Bonna (Kent) Hanson, Mark (Rebecca) Burgess; brother-in-law, Art Hughes. Preceded in death by his parents; sister, Sharyn Hughes.

Graveside services will be held Monday April 14, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. in the Fountain Green City Cemetery. 

To watch services live click here.

Quality of zoom may be poor due to cellular service at the cemetery, a recording of Craig's service will be posted here following the service.

We would like to give a special thanks to Dr. Daniel Alsup for being his doctor, Sanpete First Responders who responded so quickly and the two Sanpete Sheriffs that watched over us. Also a special thanks to Melba and Wendall Jacobson and Bishop Trevor and Heidi Johnson’s family for everything they have done for us.

We love you Craig!