Brian Clain Baxter passed away on April 9, 2026 in Murray, UT. Born on March 14, 1957, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Raymond Clain Baxter and Barbara Durrans, Brian was the third of six children. Though he faced early physical challenges with Perthes disease that required him to wear a leg brace, he never let it slow him down and still figured out how to cause mischief, including his role in the Wheeler Farm barn fire.

As a young boy, Brian loved playing little league baseball and scouting, eventually developing a deep, enduring passion for the outdoors. He spent countless hours fishing, hunting, and running trap lines, finding a sense of peace in nature that stayed with him throughout his life.

A 1975 graduate of Murray High School, Brian became a professional framer in the commercial construction industry. His career took him across the country to work on hospitals, schools, and office buildings. While he spoke fondly of his time working in Kona, Hawaii, his greatest professional pride was his contribution to the LDS Conference Center in downtown Salt Lake City.

The physical demands of his trade eventually took their toll. Brian often joked that "permanent disability" was the only true construction retirement plan—a sentiment that proved painfully prophetic as he navigated chronic physical pain in his later years. Despite these challenges, he found comfort in simple pleasures: watching westerns, reading Louis L’Amour books, listening to music, telling stories of past shenanigans with friends, and watching the sunset from his porch. He was a man of many projects, a dog-father, and a seeker of trouble whenever the opportunity arose.

In the early 2000s, Brian met the love of his life, Ronda Bross. His few short years with her were some of his happiest. Ronda’s sudden passing left a profound void in his life, and the weight of that loss, coupled with his battle with alcoholism, created a painful wedge between Brian and his children. These years were marked by words that cannot be retracted and time that cannot be regained, leaving a legacy of both love and regret. Yet, through every struggle, Brian remained fiercely true to himself, fighting until the very end.

Brian is preceded in death by his father, Raymond; his brother, Mark; and his fiancé, Ronda Bross. He is survived by his children, Luke (Michele) and Raina (Daniel); his mother, Barbara; his siblings, Linda (Brad), Sharon (Kevin), Susan (Ron), and Lance (Jenny); and six grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a different kind of tribute: if there is someone in your life from whom you’ve grown apart, please consider reaching out. Life is too short for the weight of old disagreements. In the end, our connections are what matter most, and no regret is worth the time lost to silence.

A graveside service will be held on April 14th at 11:00 AM at the Murray City Cemetery where he will be laid to rest with his beloved, Ronda.