Johnny Ray Baum

Johnny Ray Baum, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and uncle passed away on July 21, 2026, surrounded by his family after a hard-fought battle with COPD.

John was born on October 6, 1946, in Heber, Utah, to Ray and Mary Baum. He was the second of seven children and grew up in Fruitland, Utah, where he developed a lifelong appreciation for family, hard work, and the outdoors. He graduated from Duchesne High School.

On October 1, 1965, John married Carolyn Nielson. Together they built a life centered on family and devotion to one another. Last year, they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary surrounded by family at a special gathering.

Just a few months after their marriage, John was drafted into the Army and served in the Vietnam war from October 1966 to December 1967. During his service overseas, his son, Jim, was born. A few years after returning home, he and Carolyn welcomed their daughter, Vicki.

John worked as an ornamental ironworker for 43 years. He was a skilled craftsman who took great pride in his work and was respected for his dedication and expertise.

Nothing brought John more joy than spending time with his family. He loved camping, hunting, and being outdoors whenever he could. Whether around a campfire, in the mountains, driving his tractor, or working with family, those were the moments he treasured most. He will be remembered for his quick wit, quiet strength, and trademark stubbornness that those who loved him came to cherish.

John is survived by his devoted wife, Carolyn; his son, Jim (Mindy); his daughter, Vicki (Scott) Biehn; granddaughters Amanda (Chase) Christensen, Ashley (Evan) Carson, Katana (Chris) Flitton, and Cassidy; three great-granddaughters and two great-grandsons; and his sister, Julie (Bart) Smith.

He was preceded in death by his parents and five siblings: Elaine, Bob, Vernon, Paul, and Bruce.

A viewing will be held on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at Russon Mortuary, 295 North Main Street, Bountiful, Utah, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. A private graveside service and interment will be held at Memorial Lakeview Cemetery in Bountiful, Utah.

John's legacy lives on through the family he loved deeply and the countless memories he created with them. He will be greatly missed and forever remembered.