Kyle Dean Ennis

Kyle Dean Ennis, our beloved Husband, Father, Grandpa, Son, Brother, Mentor, and Friend, returned to his Heavenly home on May 16, 2025, at the age of 61. His life was filled with humble examples of steadfast faith, deep love, consistent service, and pure enthusiasm for living life.

Kyle was born in Tooele, Utah and spent his childhood outside fishing and hunting with family, playing basketball, exploring with friends, and hiking into the mountains behind his home. He was a problem-solver, always fixing things in his own unique way, something he learned at a young age from his dad, Billy. He became the person everyone called for help or advice. As a young adult, he embraced adventures such as skiing, mountain biking, windsurfing, hiking, and running marathons. Throughout his life he continued to find joy in motion—kayaking, e-biking, playing racquetball and pickleball, and traveling with his favorite person, Maury. He loved being outdoors and sharing those meaningful, simple moments. He especially enjoyed spending time at Priest Lake, Idaho, where he found sacred peace in its serene beauty.

He had a passion for learning, especially learning that deepened his understanding of Jesus Christ. His faith was central to his life. He began serving early on in life as a Seminary President in high school, and later as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Osaka, Japan, from 1982 to 1984. It was there that his relationship with God and the Savior flourished and shaped the direction of his life. Kyle found joy in studying the scriptures, and even greater joy in teaching about Jesus Christ—whether in Gospel Doctrine classes, as Bishop, Stake President, or in one-on-one conversations. He also served faithfully as an Addiction Recovery leader and as a Temple Sealer in the Portland Oregon Temple, always leading with humility, love, and with deep devotion to the Lord.

He was sealed to his sweetheart and eternal companion, Maury, on August 23, 1986, in the Salt Lake City Temple after their friendship quickly turned into a deep, unwavering love. They were true partners in all they did—from raising a family, to working side-by-side in their career, and especially in serving others. Maury will forever be the love of his life, and together they found joy in every phase of life, especially as parents and grandparents. He truly cherished any opportunity to chat with and spend time with his children and grandchildren. He never expected anything in return, just wanted to be around them and find ways to make their lives a little bit better.

Kyle earned an associate degree from Snow College, an undergraduate degree in Education from Utah State University, and a Master’s in Educational Administration from Portland State University. After graduating from Utah State, Kyle and Maury spent two years teaching English together in Japan—a time they both treasure. Upon returning, Kyle taught Japanese and English at Aloha High School in Beaverton, Oregon, where he later transitioned into an administrative role, supporting the school’s technology initiatives. Eventually, his love of learning and technology led him to a long and fulfilling career as Senior Vice President of Technology and Education at Avant Assessment—a place very dear to his heart. Kyle had a profound impact over his 23 years there, inspiring educators and leaders worldwide through his passion for meaningful assessment and his gift for drawing deep insights from data.

Kyle made every person feel seen, heard, and valued. He gave his time, his heart, and his wisdom to help others grow—offering guidance with clarity, compassion, and spiritual insight. Through his quiet confidence and Christ-centered encouragement, he helped others feel the strength of the Savior in their lives and believe they could do hard things.

Kyle is preceded in death by his father, Billy Dean Ennis; his brother, Roger Ennis; and his mother-in-law, Jennie Caywood. He is survived by his wife, Maury; his children and grandchildren: Zach and Kailee (Addie, Everett, Zander), Kylie and Kevin (Dean), Marissa and Ky (Maylie, Luke, Jack); his mother, Scharlott Ennis; and his siblings, Charlyn, Joyce, Tyler, Taralyn, and Merlyn.

To honor Kyle, we invite all to serve someone selflessly, share a dad joke, cheer for the Ducks, set a goal to study the scriptures more, or simply sit beside someone who needs your presence. That’s how he lived—humble, kind, and exactly where he was needed most.