John Kent Vigos

John “Kent “Vigos, 67, returned home on July 1, 2014, in Salt Lake City. Kent was born on March 3rd, 1947, in Salt Lake City to James and Lillian Vigos. Kent grew up in Sugar House, Utah, and was a businessman from the start. One clever marketing scheme involved buying pies and selling them door–to-door for a profit. He was called “The Cavemen” around age 15, for his unique ability to throw rocks in the air and kill birds. He graduated from Highland High, and then moved on to big adventure on the rivers. Kent spent ten years running the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. There his “Caveman” nickname changed to “The Famous Mudman” for covering himself with mud, running back to the group he was guiding, grabbing the cutest girl in the group, and running away with her on his shoulder. Soon, he met Debbie Nickle. He was astounded that she stood him up on their first date, but he eventually won her over. The two were married June 19, 1975 in Sandy, Utah. Kent’s nickname changed to “Dad” to his beautiful children Josh, Justin, Nicole, and Jordan. The couple separated in 1986, but Kent and Debbie have recently developed a friendship that has allowed them to enjoy their children and grandchildren together. Kent’s favorite nickname came about with the birth of his first of many grandchildren. They all called him “Bumpa” and this was the name that brought joy to Kent’s heart. From the time they were born, Kent made sure that they knew that they were loved and special. People who met Kent quickly realized that he lived from the heart both in his business and personal life. He was a truly generous and kind person who went out of his way to compliment others and take a genuine interest in them. From his open personality came compassion, acceptance, and a sense of security. Kent would give you the shirt off his back. He lived an example of daily affirmations and positive living, and found good in the people around him. Kent leaves a legacy of love to his children and grand-children: Josh and Cecilia and their children Sage, Eve, and Jaden; Justin and Niki and their kids Dillon, Rachel and Brightyn, daughter Nicole and Daniel and their son Landon, and youngest son Jordan and Kendall and their daughter Kendra. He also loved with all his heart: Debbie Moon, Aaron and Brandy Moon and their children Emma and Austin, Adam and Shelby Moon with their children Connor and Logan. Kent was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his brother David and Ursula Vigos, sister Sheila Smith, brother Randy and Sunny Vigos. When looking through some of Kent’s notes we found this prayer that he had written. “Joy and peace of mind only come after surrendering to God’s will for me - I need do nothing but Love - Extend that which I am and trust that my desire to actually be Loved will be fulfilled. As the love light shines the shadows disappear- I need do nothing but relax- Let God’s love shine through me. “ Kent’s deepest desire would be for us to continue to love each other and celebrate life and the joys around us.

John Kent Vigos

March 3, 1947 - July 1, 2014