John Rees

John Richard Rees, age 90, of Ogden, Utah, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2025, after a short illness, surrounded by his devoted wife and loving family. John was born on July 14, 1935, in La Jolla, California, to Crosby and Hariett Rees and was raised in Escondido, California. He graduated from the University of Arizona with a degree in Civil Engineering and enjoyed a long, distinguished career in the field. His work helped shape the communities he served—improving infrastructure, promoting safety, and enhancing the quality of life for countless people.
John was married twice in his lifetime. He first married Leslie Slagle Rees in 1957, and together they raised four children: Kathy Rees Gibbons (Rick), Karen Rees Munroe Richard), George “Buddy” Rees (Heidi), and Ann Rees Cross (Marty). In 1982, John married Sandy Fields Rees, his devoted wife of 43 years, who survives him. Sandy brought six children into their blended family: Sam Fields, Tom Fields (deceased), Sharon Fields Dewey (Mike), Tim Fields, Steve Fields, and Heather Fields Bailey (Gary), creating an extended family filled with love and laughter.
John’s large and loving family also includes 15 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren with one on the way, and one great-great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Karen Rees Stamper.
An avid cyclist, skier, and outdoorsman, John spent many years in the Tucson, Arizona area, where he embraced the beauty of nature and adventure. In retirement, he loved traveling in an RV finding new places for cycling or exploring. His passion for the outdoors was matched only by his dedication to family and friends, who will remember his warmth, humor, and zest for life. When John’s birthday rolled around every year, he would comment: “July 14th is Bastille Day. The day the French celebrate my Birthday!”; On his 90th Birthday his family and friends celebrated in Bastille Day style - the ladies dressed as “Emily In Paris”, with the guys and gals wearing French berets.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, November 26 at Myers Evergreen Memorial Park in Ogden, Utah. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to an environmental charity of your choice.
John’s legacy lives on in the love he shared, the values he instilled, and the countless memories treasured by all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.