Kent Jager Obituary

Kent Edward Jager
April 11, 1947 - July 13, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Kent Edward Jager, who peacefully left this world on July 13, 2025, surrounded by his family at home. He was 78 years old.
Born on April 11, 1947, in Murray, Utah, he was a man of honor, innovation, and boundless enthusiasm for life. He served his country with distinction in the US Army during the Vietnam War, a service reflecting his commitment to dedication.
On July 1, 1971, he married his loving wife and best friend, Shelagh, beginning a beautiful partnership that would span over five decades. Together, they built a remarkable legacy of love and adventure that will endure for generations. He was the proud father of 5 children, 31 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren. Mom took the best care of dad over the years.
His professional journey was marked by creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. He began his career in photography, owning and operating his own studio, capturing life's precious moments. He then embraced the emerging world of computers, building, designing, and selling computers nationwide during the technology boom. His entrepreneurial heart led him and his family on countless adventures, from developing a computer program that described personalities and taking it to fairs and events, to crafting and selling puppets and trinkets, navigating the world of Beanie Babies and eBay, and always seeking "the next big thing." Most recently, he discovered the magic of 3D printing, creating anything and everything he thought would impress.
His hobbies were as diverse as they were impressive. He found joy in boating, ATV adventures, classic cars, and fishing. He was fascinated by model airplanes and helicopters, trains, and anything that would bring wonder to the eyes of others. He loved the "WOW factor" in everything he did, whether it was his impressive sound system, or any of his many projects that made ordinary moments extraordinary.
He was a man who embodied the principle of "work hard, play hard." Tough and meticulous in his approach to life, he was interested in others, especially as his health began to limit his own activities. He remained deeply engaged in the lives of those around him, always ready to make any experience bigger and better.
A faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he lived life with purpose and conviction.
Our family extends heartfelt gratitude to Quality Home and Hospice, and especially to his CNA Juan and RN Emily, who provided exceptional care and became true friends and part of the family. Their compassion and dedication brought comfort and laughter during his final chapter.
He leaves behind his devoted wife, 5 children, 31 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, and countless friends whose lives he touched with his innovative spirit, generous heart, and zest for life. His legacy of curiosity, entrepreneurship, and love for family will continue to inspire all who know him.
In lieu of flowers (which Dad always said were better off left growing), we invite you to help us honor his last wish of taking mom to the beach. It was something he dreamed of doing with her, but life and his health had other plans. He never understood why people would cut beautiful flowers just to watch them wilt. "Let 'em live", he always said. Instead of petals and stems, we'd love to carry a little bit of him to the shore, where he always hoped to dip his toes in the sand next to mom. If you'd like to be part of that tribute, your kindness will go straight to making that happen; sunshine, seagulls and all.
Venmo: @shelagh-jager
A viewing will be held on Friday, July 18 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Jenkins-Soffe South Valley located at 1007 West South Jordan Parkway, South Jordan, Utah. Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 19, 2025 at Heritage Park Ward 4986 S Valois Drive, Taylorsville, UT. A viewing will be held from 10:00 to 10:45 am prior to services. Interment will take place at Mountain View Memorial Estates, 3115 Bengal Blvd., Cottonwood Heights, Utah.
To celebrate and remember dad, his viewing will not be a formal, quiet affair. He hated lines and would never want anyone standing awkwardly in silence – so we're keeping it casual. Please feel free to come in, mingle, share a story, and spend time with the people who loved him. Just the way he would have wanted.