Gary Norman Petersen passed away on October 9, 2026, after an illness with Cirrhosis of the Liver. Born April 6, 1971, to Brenda Barnett in Newton, Utah. Gary spent the first few years of his life in Brigham City and Logan, Utah. In August of 1979, Gary and his siblings, Christopher and Virginia Petersen, went to live with the Casselman family in Wellsville, Utah. Gary attended Adams Elementary, Spring Creek Middle School, and Mountain Crest High School, where he later earned a Certificate of Completion in 1992. He then attended the post-high school program at Logan High School until the age of 22.

Gary was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He was involved in the Young Men's organization and the Boy Scouts of America, as well as Special Education Seminary under the direction of Brother Arthur Keeley. Gary spent many years competing in the Special Olympics and earned several medals. Gary spent much of his childhood riding his bicycle, roller skating, and going on walks around the neighborhood. Gary had some special friends in the neighborhood that always welcomed him into their homes. We are so grateful for the love, friendship, and acceptance that were provided to Virginia, Gary, and Christopher while living in Wellsville.
After moving out of the Casselman's home, Gary became part of the North Eastern Services (NES) program where he shared many long-lasting friendships. In 2002, Gary moved from Logan to Orem and then to Spanish Fork NES in 2018. Gary enjoyed the day program and all the friends he made there. Gary joined the Door of Hope when moving to Spanish Fork, where he loved and was loved by many. The staff and church members became his family.

We will miss Gary and his unique laugh, smile, and determined sense of right and wrong. Thanks for being a light in our lives, Gary!
We'd like to give a special thanks to all the professionals, teachers, and aides who worked with Gary over the years in both Cache and Logan school districts. Also, to the countless number of people at North Eastern Services who opened their lives and hearts to Gary. During his brief illness, Gary was under the amazing care of staff at Utah Valley Hospital, Intermountain Hospice, and Spanish Fork Rehab and Nursing. We are so grateful for the countless hours you gave to Gary's comfort.

There will be a viewing from 10:00 – 10:50 a.m., followed by funeral services on Friday, October 16, 2026, at Walker Funeral Home, located at 187 South Main St., Spanish Fork, Utah. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Newton Cemetery at 12:00 p.m.