UTAH COUNTY, Dec. 13, 2025 — A respected former Utah County Commissioner, Tom Sakievich, has passed away, 15 months after stepping down from office following a serious cancer diagnosis. Sakievich was 72 years old at the time of his death and was surrounded by loved ones when he died on Thursday.
Diagnosis and Resignation From Office
Tom Sakievich resigned from his role as Utah County Commissioner in September 2024 after being diagnosed with glioblastoma brain cancer, one of the most aggressive forms of brain tumors. Despite the challenges of treatment, he continued serving the community for months while undergoing medical care.
In a resignation letter released at the time, Sakievich expressed deep appreciation for the community’s support.
“Since receiving my glioblastoma brain cancer diagnosis earlier this year, I have been deeply grateful for your kindness, prayers, and encouragement as I continued serving while receiving treatment,” he wrote.
A Lifetime of Public Service
Sakievich’s commitment to service extended far beyond county government. He previously served in the U.S. Marines and later devoted himself to local leadership through the Utah County Commission, where he became known for his optimism, approachability, and dedication to residents.
His service-oriented mindset earned him widespread respect across political and community circles in Utah County.
Tributes From Colleagues and Leaders
Skyler Beltran, who succeeded Sakievich as Utah County Commissioner, shared a heartfelt tribute on Friday.
“We lost a great public servant last night,” Beltran wrote. “Commissioner Tom Sakievich dedicated his life to serving his community, from the U.S. Marines to the Utah County Commission. He was always positive and welcomed everyone with a smile. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife Marji and their family.”
Utah State Representative Lisa Shepherd (District 61) also honored Sakievich, describing him as both a trusted colleague and a dear friend.
“I will miss Tom’s kind heart, positive demeanor, and thoughtfulness,” Shepherd wrote. “He was sincere, honest to his core, and completely without pretension. His integrity was not something he put on—it was simply who he was.”
Remembering Tom Sakievich’s Character
Those who worked closely with Sakievich consistently described him as genuine, respectful, and deeply principled. His ability to approach difficult issues with clarity and compassion made him a steady presence in Utah County leadership and a figure many residents admired.
