Cleon Jay Fowler

Cleon Jay Fowler, 81, passed away on July 30, 2025. Born May 1, 1944, in Nampa, Idaho, to Gerald and Fern Pansy Eriksen Fowler, CJ was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was married to Pamela Applegate Fowler for 54 years, until her passing, and remarried to Joanne Gatherum on September 27, 2019.

CJ was raised in Sacramento, California, and graduated from high school in 1962. Shortly after, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, where he served as a firefighter for four years, achieving the rank of Airman 1st Class. He earned several commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal and the Republic of Vietnam Service Medal, before receiving an honorable discharge in 1966.

Following his military service, CJ worked as a machinist, railroad switchman, and later as a civil servant with Grissom AFB in Indiana. He was later stationed at George AFB in California, where he held various leadership roles in the fire department, including Assistant Chief of Operations and Station Captain. In 1988, CJ was awarded the Medal of Valor for his courageous service.

Beyond his career, CJ enjoyed bowling, biking, playing cards, dancing, and singing. He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and served a mission in Nauvoo, Illinois with his first wife Pamela.

CJ is survived by his wife Joanne, children Tracy (Dave) Hartley, Todd (Janet) Fowler, and Toni (Marc) Rose, as well as his grandchildren Keely (Matt) Cooper, Jaesi (Cameron) Woolf, Aspen Miller, Gage Miller, Zoey Fowler, and many great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Glee and Vic Fowler, son-in-law McLain Miller, and first wife Pamela.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 9th, at 11:00 AM at the Bloomington Stake Center (200 W. Brigham Rd, St. George, UT). A viewing will take place on Friday, August 8th, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Hughes Mortuary. Interment will follow at Tonaquint Cemetery in St. George.

Arrangements entrusted to Hughes Mortuary, St. George, UT. (435) 674-5000.