December 4, 1942 – October 25, 2024
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dennis Farnsworth Judd, a cherished resident of Kanab, Utah, who left us on October 25, 2024, in Kanab Hospital after a battle with heart-related complications. Dennis, or “Denny,” as he was affectionately known, was born to LeRoy and Phyllis Judd and raised in Kanab, where he cultivated deep roots and a lasting legacy through his boundless dedication to family, community, and faith.
Growing up on his family’s ranch, Dennis developed a strong work ethic and a deep love for the land. A natural athlete, he excelled in multiple sports throughout high school. After high school, Dennis served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in New Zealand, gaining lifelong friendships. This was followed by service in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Dennis helped with the many Western movies filmed in Kanab, a role he enjoyed throughout his life, and one that connected him to Kanab’s unique role in film history. He was a real western legend.
Later he launched his own business, Denny’s Wigwam, a beloved establishment that became a true staple of Kanab. In 1970, Dennis married Kathy, the love of his life, and together they shared 54 wonderful years. They raised four children, instilling in them the values of integrity, service, and compassion.
Known for his unwavering dedication to the community, Dennis held numerous leadership positions and was always ready to lend a helping hand, his kindness touching countless lives. Later in life, Dennis and Kathy served together on a mission to Knoxville, Tennessee, further embodying their shared commitment to service and faith in Jesus Christ.
Dennis is survived by his beloved wife Kathy; their four children; Janette Peatross (Wade), Cody (Britney), Holly Valdivia (Albert), Levi (Stephanie). His grandchildren, Devann (Wes), Saige, Judd, Jocee, Asa, Elias, Gavin, Ben, Evalyn, Stella, Emmy, Mila and Berlynn who adored him dearly; His 3 siblings Richard (Nancy), Barry (Arlene) and Dan (Kaye) and the many friends and community members who were blessed to know him. His legacy will endure in the town he loved so much and in the lives of all he inspired.
Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, October 30th, 2024 at 12:00 High Noon in the K-hill Ward Chapel, 20 West Center Street, Kanab, Utah. There will be a viewing Tuesday, from 6-7 pm at the Chapel and on Wednesday from 10:30 – 11:45 am prior to the Funeral. Burial in the Kanab Cemetery with Military Honors.
You are invited to watch the live stream of the services through the link below:
You are in my thoughts and prayers. My heart is broken💔❤️🩹💔.
We are so deeply sorry for your loss of this wonderful man. He will be remembered by so many of us who also loved him and have so many fond memories with him. May God be with you and bring you peace in the days ahead.
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Dennis.He was a wonderful man with a heart of gold.I got to know Dennis and Kathy when they were here in Tennessee.They were wonderful neighbors that we dearly loved.Rest in peace my dear friend.You will never be forgotten.😢♥️🙏
Sending my condolences to the family
Dear Levi and family,
Sending my love to you at the loss of your father. Sounds like he is a great man with the life he lived. What a blessing to all who knew him.
May you continue to have fond memories of him and know that Heavenly Father loves you. You’re a dear friend. ❤️
So friendly and genuine, felt liked Dennis immediately.
Kathy, Orval and I send our sympathy to you and your family.
We sure love the Judds! Our hearts and prayers are with you.
Condolences to the Judd family from me and the Best Friends family, Denny was always gracious, welcoming and a genuinely kind man.
Lauren and I are very saddened to learn of Denny’s passing. We send our heartfelt condolences.
Sorry to learn of Dennis’ passing-so sad. We had so many happy times in school with all our happy parties, her two families chopping Christmas trees on the Kaibab, school events, school games and rides. Wow, happy, happy times. Thanks for the memories!
❤️Mo
The only real cowboy I have met in person.
The man The Legend.
God Bless the Judd Family.
Dennis quickly welcomed me and my family when we moved into Kanab. We then became fast friends. I will always cherish our trip to California and meeting with the Hollywood studios. He was truly genuine to everyone he came in contact with and touched so many lives…mine especially. Stephanie and I share our deepest condolences to Kathy and the family. Our deepest reverence as this old cowboy rides into the sunset.
I’m deeply sorry to hear about the loss of Dennis. He and Kathy left a remarkable legacy, not just as a successful business people and their wonderful children, but as a mentor and beloved friend to many, including myself. His lessons and kindness of his family profoundly shaped my life and countless others in our community. May his memory continue to inspire us all. Warmest condolences. With Love. Dave
So sorry for your families loss, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Uncle Denny was a great man. May God bless his soul and bless you Kathy and your family.
you are in my prayers ,im so sorry a great friend has gone on.
lots of love.
Larry Adair
Denny was one of the ‘Good Guys’ who I knew. I lived there since 1958 until just recently, so I got to know him somewhat. He was a year younger than me.
Dennis was my best friend growing up and Best Man at my wedding and has remained a dear friend all our lives.. He was the author of: I am sorry I did it, but if I had a chance, I’d do it again” and “I have shot myself in the leg as he stumbled into the hospital. He was always ready for a new adventure and making something better. We love him and Kathy. Hope we can catch up with him as he rides into the sunset. Love Claud M and Rolaine Glazier
Dennis Judd was a great example of a life.well lived.. We will miss his example and influence in all of our lives., it has been a great honor to know Dennis and Cathy through these years. I appreciate the Way my son Wade became part of the Judd family in Kanab . his daughter Janette is a real treasure to both of our families and the three grandchildren. It is an honor to share with Dennis and Cathy as grandparents. His memory will continue to influence our lives love Ron Peatross.
Kathy, sorry about Dennis, will miss seeing him. John, I’m sure greeted him.
Dennis was truly one of the great man of our area. He loved everything about our heritage. It was a privilege to work with him on some of the committees commemorating that. He had a gift for making people feel recognized and special. His love for the Lord and his family, and his community was always evident. Few will be as missed as he will be. Our love and prayers are with Kathy and Their family.
Kathy, we are so saddened by Dennis’s passing and are even sadder that we cannot be with you at his funeral. We have entered your name on the prayer roll at the Payson Temple and wanted you to be assured that those many additional prayers will offer healing and relief to your troubled heart. We love you both so much.