Paul Gammell Obituary

Paul Raymond Gammell 

May 10, 1951 – December 30, 2024 

- Paul Raymond Gammell of Sandy, Utah at the age of 73, has hung up his helmet for the last time and ridden off into the sunset after a courageous battle with cancer. Known for living life in the fast lane, whether on two wheels or by the seat of his pants, Paul leaves behind a legacy of laughter and love. 

Paul was born to Raymond William and Evelyn Alice Josey Gammell on May 10, 1951 in Provo, Utah. He was baptized as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He grew up in the Canyon Rim area of Salt Lake City where he could be found getting into mischief with his friends, including best friend Steve Lewis. They became fast friends at the age of 3 when they shared a bonding moment - peeing in the yard together. 

His shenanigans continued on into his high school years at Skyline High School. He often told a story about buddies carrying a car onto a neighbor's front porch as a joke. Boys being boys! In high school he asserted himself into various sports including wrestling and football and was an All-Conference honorable mention. He loved school and learning which continued on throughout his life. 

He attended Dixie College upon receiving a football scholarship and made more friendships that shaped him into who he was. He often told his children of his revered memories with his dearest friends Steve and Doug Kiger, Jan Gainor, and Margaret Randall. When he moved back to Salt Lake City to attend the University of Utah, his devoted friends followed. Paul was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha and is a known legend for skiing off the top of the frat house. He worked as a hotel manager downtown and was the transportation for several celebrities including The Kingston Trio and Kiss to mention a few. 

On the first day of summer in 1980, Paul met Michaelle Gammell, who became his "Main Squeeze", in the checkout line at Albertsons. He called his friends to let them know he met the woman he would marry and proposed exactly a week later, and continued every day for 6 months until she agreed. They married on Christmas Eve and were later eternally sealed in the temple. They had four children together and recently celebrated 44 years of marriage. Michaelle truly was the love of his life. His devotion for her will be a lasting example of unconditional love to his children. 

Paul was a dedicated and hardworking man, spending 29 years of his career at Delta Airlines before enjoying his well-earned retirement. Throughout his life he could be found cruising on his motorcycle, golfing with friends (and occasionally yelling at the ball), enjoying the tranquil waters while boating, going to concerts, listening to and deeply feeling the music, or watching a good movie. A dedicated fan of University of Utah Football, Paul was always ready to cheer-or jeer-depending on how the game was going. But his most cherished time was being with his wife, children, and grandchildren. He looked forward to playing hide-and-seek, Left Right Center, cheering them on in their sports or accomplishments, and being their #1 fan. He was always stocked up on sweets and treats just in case they stopped by. He loved them deeply and made sure they knew. 

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Paul is survived by his wife and "Main Squeeze", Michaelle Heath Gammell, his children: Garrison Paul Gammell (Emily), Chelsea Benson (Kenyon), and Lexington Josey Smithson (Jason), who blessed them with six grandchildren-McKenzie "Scout", Brighton Garrison, Jaxon Clark "Hurricane", Realta Gabriaelle "Reya Sunshine", Reardon Daniel, Liberty Jane "Birdy", and baby Winnie (expected to make her debut this March); his siblings: Steven Hedquist, Mary Gammell Rogers, Ann Gammell Cook (Keith), Mark Gammell (Atsuko), and Kathy Gammell. 

Preceded in death by his cherished daughter Gabrialle, his parents Raymond William and Evelyn Josey Gammell, siblings Elizabeth Hedquist and Philip Alan Gammell, and in-laws Thomas Rogers, Glenn David Heath, Jeanene Heath, Heather Heath Trivett, and Jeff Heath. 

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at Jenkins-Soffe Funeral Home in South Jordan. A public visitation will occur Monday, January 6, 2025 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Paul will take one final ride to the Sandy City Cemetery, where he'll be laid to rest near his baby girl, reunited at last. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider taking Michaelle to lunch in the coming weeks, sharing memories and support in this difficult time, or as Paul says, "You cheap ass - send flowers" to Jenkins-Soffe Funeral Home in South Jordan, Utah! Online condolences may be shared at www.jenkins-soffe.com. 

Paul Raymond Gammell's life was a testament to adventure, family, and love-with a little mischief thrown in for good measure. He will be profoundly missed and joyfully remembered by all who knew him. Ride on, Paul.