Eldon Carl Louder

Eldon Carl Louder passed quickly Sunday morning, June 22, 2025, after many goodbyes on Saturday from family and friends. He was loved by many and lived by the quote,

“Reputation is made in a moment: character is built in a lifetime “

He was born on February 15, 1942, in Park City, Utah and grew up in Orem. His parents, Carl Richardson Louder and Zoe Martha Ball, taught him how to serve and work hard. His youth was spent picking fruit of every kind in the Orem orchards and family gardens. He was the light of their lives.

With his father, he learned to hunt, fish, ride horses and most anything with wheels. In his teens, he was finally blessed with two wonderful siblings, Rick and Jan.

Eldon graduated from Orem High School in 1960 after being active in sports and music. He went on to play football for CSU in Cedar City, before serving in the British Mission from 1961-1963 for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was a strong leader throughout his mission and

was blessed to be President McKay’s chauffeur several days when he came to England to dedicate a chapel. What a wonderful opportunity.

Eldon continued his education at different universities with one semester at BYU, where he fell in love with Carolyn Bellows. He graduated from USU with a Bachelor's degree, and later received his Master's, both in education.

Eldon adored Carolyn with her wit and artistic flair. They shared a great love for art, especially if it had a western theme. Her name was often greeted with a laugh, Carolyn Bellows Louder. It fit her outgoing personality.

They were sealed in the Salt Lake City temple on June 30, 1966. They were blessed when four outstanding children. Chad, Robb, Shannon and Andy. Each brought a different joy and excitement to his fatherhood experience.

Summers for Eldon were filled with diversified jobs. He was a realtor, a roofer, a driver's ed teacher, a forest ranger and a man of all traits, then back to teaching in the fall. He taught high school in Roy, Utah and was a track coach and an assistant football coach. He later traded for 6th grade in Afton, Wyoming for 21 years. Eldon loved refereeing high school basketball throughout Wyoming and Utah especially if his brother Rick was playing.

After 32 years of marriage Eldon lost the love of his life to cancer in 1998. His children married and he filled his life with service in the church and community. He loved becoming a grandpa.

In 2000, he was introduced to Karen Christensen, whose husband had also passed in 1998. She was a city girl from Utah, but somehow they blended 9 children, 37 grandkids and 6 great grandbabies. They shared 25 years and 4 days together. Eldon taught Karen all about cooking fish, Dutch oven potatoes and how to stay on a 4-wheeler and snowmobile. Best friends were made traveling to Idaho Falls to serve as ordinance workers for 9 ½ years and 3 years at the Star Valley Temple. Eldon had always loved Cody, Wyoming and more spiritual memories were made as service missionaries at the Historic Cody Mural and Museum.

Although his capacity was diminished during the last stages of his life, Eldon’s love for friends continues on today. As caregivers served so willingly. He was kindly referred to as “Cowboy Joe” by some, as a Peace Maker by others, and the Best Smile at the table on a good day. As his family, we express our love and gratitude for the Abbington and all the special care that was given, especially on the hard days.

Eldon is survived by his wife, Karen who loves him dearly; His children, Chad (Portia), Robb (Jennifer), Shannon (Jay), and Andy (Kelly).

Step-children, Michele (Eric), Kimberly (Jim), Wendi (Chris),

Andrew (Kimi) and SueAnn (Mike). His brother Rick (Miriam) and

sister Jan (Tom). He was preceded in death by his parents.

A viewing will be held on Sunday, June 29, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.at Wheeler & Sundberg Funeral Homes, 495 S State Street, Orem, Utah. A graveside service on Monday, June 30, at Orem City Cemetery, 1520 North 800th East, Orem, Utah

For our loved ones in Afton, Wyoming and any who want to make the trek we are holding a Celebration of Life for Eldon at the Town of Afton Civic Center. On July 7, 2025 6:00-8:00p.m . Come casual.

In Lieu of flowers, spend time with a friend

Condolences for the family may be expressed on this page.

The livestream may be viewed below, or at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IYczVFHmFIQ