Karl Hirst, a beloved public servant in Orem, Utah, passed away on December 18, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to both public safety and community recreation. Karl’s contributions to Orem spanned more than two decades, first as a police officer for 23 years, and later as the Director of Recreation, where he worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for residents, particularly through access to sports and recreation.
During his time as a police officer, Karl was known for his compassion, professionalism, and deep sense of duty. His colleagues remember him as a leader who cared deeply about the well-being of his fellow officers and the community he served. After retiring from the force, Karl’s passion for helping others continued to drive his work, and he transitioned into his new role as Director of Recreation.
In this capacity, Karl made it his mission to ensure that every child, regardless of their family’s financial situation, had the opportunity to engage in sports and recreation. He worked on creating programs that removed financial barriers and made these activities accessible to all. Karl firmly believed that sports and recreation were vital in shaping young people’s lives, teaching teamwork, discipline, and resilience.
The loss of Karl Hirst is deeply felt by the Orem community. His contributions to public safety and recreation, along with his commitment to improving the lives of others, will never be forgotten. Karl’s family, friends, and colleagues will continue to honor his memory and the profound impact he made on Orem for over two decades.
