Philip Alan Gammell

Dear Friends and Family,

With great sadness we announce the passing of Philip Alan Gammell, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. At 76 years young, Phil passed away peacefully in the arms of his spouse, children, grandchildren in his home on September 14, 2024.

Phil was born August 7, 1948 in Pocatello Idaho to Raymond William and Evelyn Alice Josey Gammell. On May 2, 1974, he married his beloved bride Kathleen Adams, in Holliday, Utah. Their marriage was solemnized in the Salt Lake City Temple on May 2, 1975. 

As a devoted and genuine member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Phil served two LDS missions. The first one was in the New England states under Paul H. Dunn, later after he retired, he took his beloved bride to fulfill their dream of serving a mission together. He was able to serve his second mission in the Nauvoo Illinois Temple under James McArther. Phil took much pride in the fact that President McArther allowed he and his beloved wife to bring along their Harley Davidsons. 

After returning home from his second mission he continued to serve in the Draper temple for a total of 12 years, finding much joy and peace meeting and serving his fellow man. 

Phil worked for the Department of Workforce services. However, his true passion was a business owner of Gammell Photography. Phil was an accomplished photographer with an eye for art. As a professional photographer Phil met an abundance of celebrities from the likes of the Osmond family, Gordon Jump, James Brown, Tony Bennett, Jimmy Buffet and many more. He enjoyed taking pictures with the Osmond family for the Children’s Miracle Network Telethon as well as the Utah Opera and the Cherish restaurant. His business also worked with many Universities and high schools in the state of Utah and Idaho, along with commercial, families, and wedding photography. Along this path he taught his beloved spouse and children how to be a photographer as well. Phil has won many photography awards through this journey. 

Phil’s greatest joy in life was his family. Every summer, he delighted in taking his loved ones on adventures that spanned from California to Illinois, Canada to Mexico. Phil never embarked on these journeys without his trusted Nikon camera in tow, always eager to capture and preserve the precious moments shared with his family. Durning their visits to Yosemite National Park, Phil found immense joy in sharing his passion for photography with his family. He would lovingly strap a Nikon camera around the necks of his three and four-year-old grandsons. Watching with pride as they eagerly snapped photos alongside him. With a twinkle in his eye, he would chuckle as strangers passed by and saying “Wow, those little boys cameras are nicer than mine”. Photography was not just a business for Phil but a way to bond with family and creating lasting memories together. His enthusiasm for teaching his loved ones about the art of capturing moments through a lens was a testament to his generous spirit and dedication to creating meaningful experiences for those he held dear. 

Phil had a deep passion for riding motorcycles, from his beloved Triumph to his Harley Davidson. He would often regale others with stories of his adventures on the road, whether it was commuting to work or riding to temples with fellow temple riders, with his cherished spouse by his side on her own bike. During a period of transition in his life, when his wife was away visiting her brother out of state, Phil decided to reignite his passion for riding. He made the spontaneous decision to purchase a new bike from the local Harley Davidson shop. However, upon learning of his impulsive purchase, his wife intervened and jokingly threatened to divorce him if he went through with it. Needless to say, the bike came home with Phil. Who would have known that the lighthearted moment and impulsive purchase would only strengthen their bond. 

After retiring, Phil and Kathy embarked on countless memorable rides together, exploring the open road and creating lasting memories. They embarked on a journey across America, visiting historical sites, LDS temples, and discovering hidden gems along the way. They shared love for adventure and exploration brought them closer together. As Phil peacefully passed to the other side, his beloved spouse Kathy stood by his side, their bond unbreakable even in the face of life’s challenges. Together, they had embraced the thrill of the ride, the beauty of open the road, and the joy of experiencing life’s wonders side by side. 

As we reflect on Phil’s legacy may we remember the joy he found in sharing his passions with his family, friends, and the laughter and love that filled their adventures together. His playful and lighthearted spirit will forever be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Phil is survived by his beloved spouse, Kathleen Adams Gammell of Sandy Utah, His 5 children James Philip Gammell (Cami) of West Jordan, Jason Alan Gammell of Sandy Utah, Fred William Gammell (Ann) of Sandy Utah, Shannon Gammell Harris (Nathan) of Mesquite Nevada, Stephanie Gammell of Sandy Utah, 13 grandchildren, two brothers, Paul Gammell (Michelle), Mark Gammell (Atsuko), 2 sisters Mary Rogers, Ann Gammell Cook. Preceded in death by his parents and one sister Elizabeth Ann Hedquist (Steve). One brother-in-law Thomas Rogers (Mary). 

Funeral services will be held Monday, September 23, 2024 at 11:00 am at the Sandy Hillcrest 2nd Ward, 8735 S. Harvard Park Drive, Sandy, Utah. Viewings will be Sunday September 22, 2024 from 6:00-8:00 pm, at Cannon Mortuary 2460 Bengal Boulevard (7600 South) and Monday 9:30-10:45 am at the church prior to the funeral services. Interment Holladay Memorial Park.