Kirk Carl Lusty

Kirk Carl Lusty passed away in his home in the early morning of July 23, 2026. As usual, he had awoken before dawn to jumpstart the day, because he planned to be busy in service of others, his profession, and God. He was a loving father and husband, shrewd lawyer, witty conversationalist, and devoted disciple of Christ.

Kirk was born in Boise, Idaho on June 22, 1955 to Carl Donald “Doc” Lusty, M.D., and Alta Clair Humphreys. He was an only son, much beloved (and teased) of his five remarkable sisters. He spent his youth in his cherished Mountain West, living in places such as Boise, Winnemucca (Nevada), and Panguitch (Utah). The latter became a spiritual home for him. He graduated from Panguitch High School (Go, Bobcats!) class of 1973. He played varsity football and basketball, ran track and field, and served as class president. He treasured his friends and the memories he made there all his life.

He served faithfully as a full-time missionary of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania mission. Upon returning home, Kirk attended and graduated from the University of Utah, earning both his bachelor’s and law degree there. Throughout his life, he cultivated a passion for learning and sharing knowledge.

Most importantly, during his studies, he met a radiant nurse-midwifery student named Kaydon Bell. They married on June 15, 1978. Over the years, they raised a rambunctious, occasionally argumentative, multi-talented, generally loud, but always devoted family of six children.

Kirk had a passion for his profession of law and excelled as an advocate. He tried over 300 cases to verdict. At the U.S. Department of Justice and later the United States Postal Service, he provided 30 years of excellent and devoted public service. In 1990 and 1991, he personally received commendations from the U.S. Attorney General. During this time, he accumulated millions of miles flown and an endless supply of anecdotes and “war stories.”

“And where would a lawyer be without his anecdotes?” he’d frequently ask, quoting the great fictional English lawyer, Horace Rumpole. Kirk loved humor and wit, preferably of the dry British variety. He devoured English legal dramas with relish.

But if a man’s treasure is where his heart is, his treasure was in service to others. Kirk retired from the federal government but never retired from helping others. Whether it was a struggling businessperson suddenly in need of legal counsel, or an abused wife seeking the law’s protection, Kirk freely gave the entirety of his skill, experience, compassion, and humor to his clients. He never withheld when he knew he could help and always treated financial recompense as an afterthought.

Kirk also came to develop an interest in running, travel, and temple work. He accumulated a pile of medals from 5ks and half marathons—too many to count—in every continental state. He enjoyed his later travels, particularly visiting the out-of-the-way places in this country, France, and his beloved England. He also found deep fulfillment in regular temple work with his wife, Kaydon, serving at the Jordan River and Taylorsville temples. Additionally, throughout his life, he read far, wide, and deep; he leaves an impressive stack of read books, and an even more impressive stack of unread books.

His greatest loves and legacy, however, were his family. His grandchildren absolutely delighted him, and he delighted them with his quick smile and exuberant songs (and chocolate kisses). He involved himself in all aspects of his children’s lives, providing unconditional love, genuine interest, and faithful advice.

Through it all, Kaydon was the center of his world. He loved her through 48 years of earthly marriage and eagerly anticipates loving her through eternity. He continuously showed his love for her and left his children and grandchildren an indelible example of Christlike love and patience. He will certainly greet her at the veil, but in the meantime, he’s busy in the Lord’s work—like he always was.

Kirk Carl Lusty was preceded in death by his grandparents; his father, Carl “Doc” Lusty; his second father, Walter Wayne “Pete” Pierson; and his sisters Clarice Christensen and Janette Lusty. He is survived by his loving wife, Kaydon Bell Lusty; his mother, Alta Clair Humphreys Pierson; his three sisters, Theresa Lusty, Ceclia Lusty, and Demaree Lusty Johnson (Harry Sixtus Johnson); his six children, Kathryn Lusty, Benjamin Lusty (Melissa Godfrey), Jonathan Lusty, Matthew Lusty (Kristen Morrill), Thomas Lusty (Melissa Walkenhorst), and Christianna Lusty Christiansen (Brendan Christiansen); and his six adored grandchildren; Claire, Daniel, Graham, August, Annie, and Georgia. They all agree that among the deepest pearls of wisdom he has left them is, “Don’t be a doofus.”

A viewing will be held Sunday, August 2, 2026, from 6-8 pm. Funeral services will be held Monday, August 3, 2026, beginning at 12 noon. There will be a visitation the same day beginning at 10:30 am. All services will take place at the Bennion 5th Ward, 6100 South Kamas Drive (2600 W).

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the General Missionary Fund of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.