December 18, 1942 — August 2, 2025James “Jim” Harrison Ekker, loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on Aug. 2 at the age of 82. He was born on Dec. 18, 1942, in Springville, UT, the youngest of four children of John Gerrit (Jack) Ekker Sr. and Florence Harrison Ekker. He was raised on the Ekker Ranch on the south side of the Sheeprock Mountains in Tooele County and in Springville, UT, where he attended school. The ranch and his dad’s homestead in the west desert were his favorite place to be.
Jim spent his entire life in the ranching business. He and his brother, Gary, worked full-time alongside their dad for many years, and later he consolidated his own operations in Vernon, UT. In addition to his commercial herd, Jim established Ekker Herefords, where he raised and sold some of the best registered Hereford cattle in the state. Jim worked tirelessly to make his ranch the best it could be. He was very knowledgeable about every aspect of the cattle business, as well as many other topics. He continued ranching until the end of his life, one of the very few people who earn a living solely from ranching and farming.
Jim met Linda Lee Pehrson, from Vernon, in 1969, and they were married on June 5, 1971, in Vernon. Their marriage was later solemnized May 28, 1977, in the Manti Utah Temple. They worked their ranch together in Vernon, where they raised five children and spent the rest of their lives. Jim was very devoted to his family and loved them fiercely. He taught them all to work hard, to care for the land and animals, to be honest and generous, and to help each other. He was proud of his heritage and shared that pride with his family. He loved the cattle industry and served for many years on the board of the Utah Cattlemen’s Association, including as president from 2005-07. He also loved rodeos (especially the Ute Stampede in Nephi, UT), deer hunting, a good horse, a good steak, Diet Pepsi, playing the guitar and spending time with family and friends. He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many positions during his life.
Jim is survived by his five children: Matthew John (Debbie) Ekker of Taylorsville, UT; Michelle (Tony) Adams of Tooele, UT; Mary Lou Ekker of Tooele, UT; Melinda (Brady) Johnson of Vernon, UT; and Holly Christina (Nate) Sorensen of Payson, UT; 16 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife of 50 years, and his siblings, Leta Bartholomew, John Gerrit Ekker Jr. and Louise Schouten.
The family would like to thank the many friends who shared their love, support and prayers with Jim and his family. We also express appreciation for the wonderful care provided by Dr. Braden Webb and his staff at Advanced Spine and Pain; Taitlyn, Jen and the staff at Rocky Mountain Home Health and Hospice; and Tate Mortuary.