Gene K. Esplin

Gene K. Esplin was born on April 27, 1943, alongside his twin sister, Joan, to parents Ralph and Bernice Kofoed Esplin. Raised on the family farms in Preston and Treasureton, Idaho, Gene learned the values of hard work, resourcefulness, and practical labor—including the intricate art of irrigation—from an early age.

After graduating from Preston High School, where he discovered a passion for woodworking and was an active member of the Future Farmers of America (FFA), Gene pursued higher education at Salt Lake Technical College, specializing in architectural drafting. On June 28, 1963, he married the love of his life, Pauline Coburn, in the Logan LDS Temple. Together, they settled in Smithfield, Utah, where they raised six children and built a home rooted in devotion and community.

Professionally, Gene applied his talents across several fields as an architectural draftsman, structural designer, and independent contractor. His career path also included co-managing a retirement center in Billings, Montana, and later serving his community as a driver for local public transit.

A faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Gene dedicated his life to service. He held numerous callings throughout his life, including Bishopric counselor, Stake Young Men’s President, and Scoutmaster. His lifelong commitment to the Scouting program was honored with both the District Award of Merit and the prestigious Silver Beaver Award.

Together, Gene and Pauline embraced adventure and missionary work, completing two full-time missions: first as Country Directors for LDS Charities in Nepal (under the India New Delhi Mission), and later in the Arizona Gilbert Mission during the construction and dedication of the Gilbert Temple.

Gene will be remembered as a hardworking, faithful, and devoted husband, father, and community leader who found joy in building, serving others, and spending time outdoors with his family and lifelong friends.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Pauline; his children, Bart (Tina), Clay (Samantha), Chad (Konnie), Alison Fluckiger (Paul), and Jason (Tiffany); and 16 grandchildren (10 grandsons and 6 granddaughters). He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Bernice; his brother, Roy; his sisters, Joan and June; his son, Brent; and his grandson, Tyler.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 11 a.m. in the Smithfield 26th Ward Chapel, 640 N. 200 E., Smithfield, Utah. Viewings will be held Friday from 6:30-8 p.m. and Saturday from 9:30-10:30 a.m. both at the church. Interment will be in the Smithfield City Cemetery. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at webbmortuary.com

The services will be streamed live and may be watched on Saturday at 11 am (MDT) by clicking on the following link:

https://youtube.com/live/gQYER3pu1Dc?feature=share