Kelby Craig Gerber Obituary, Death – 22-Year-Old Moab Man Remembered for His Kind Heart and Imagination

Kelby Craig Gerber, a beloved son, brother and friend from Moab, Utah, died on October 24, 2026, at the age of 22. His sudden loss has left his family and friends heartbroken as they remember a young man whose creativity, kindness, humor and deep love for his family made him unforgettable.

Born on April 6, 2004, in Moab to Danalee Welch O’Donnal and Jason Gerber, Kelby grew up with a vivid imagination and a natural ability to bring joy and adventure into everyday life. He attended Grand County High School and graduated in 2022.

From childhood, Kelby had a creative spirit that set him apart. Whether dressing up in his beloved Spider-Man costume, creating elaborate outfits inspired by favorite characters or taking his younger siblings and cousins on imaginary chupacabra hunts, he knew how to turn ordinary moments into memorable adventures. His playful personality and quick wit brought happiness to the people around him.

Basketball was another important part of Kelby’s life. He enjoyed the sport and took pleasure in sharing that passion with his family, creating memories that his loved ones will continue to treasure.

As he grew older, Kelby carried his determination and enthusiasm into his professional life. He worked at Emery Telcom, where he took pride in his job and genuinely enjoyed what he did. He was a hardworking young man building a future for himself, with dreams and possibilities still ahead of him.

Above everything else, family remained at the center of Kelby’s world. He shared a particularly close relationship with his parents, and the bond they enjoyed was deeply meaningful. As an older brother, he loved his siblings wholeheartedly and cherished the time they spent together. Even simple moments, such as shooting hoops with his little brother, became treasured expressions of the love he had for his family.

Kelby is survived by his father, Jason Gerber, and Jason’s partner, Christina; his brother Preston; and his grandparents, Jenny and Steve Ross. He is also survived by his mother, Danalee O’Donnal, and her partner, Shane; his brother Kai; his sisters Jaylee and Jordyn; and his grandparents, Rob and Lita Welch. Aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends also mourn his passing and will continue to hold his memory close.

At just 22, Kelby had so much life ahead of him. There were dreams he had yet to pursue, places he had yet to explore and milestones his family hoped to celebrate alongside him. His death has left a painful void for those who loved him, along with the heartbreak of knowing how much more they had hoped to share.

Yet the memories Kelby created will remain. His imagination, generous heart, humor and devotion to his family formed a lasting part of the lives he touched. Those who knew him will remember the joy he brought to childhood adventures, family gatherings and the everyday moments that made their relationships special.

A Celebration of Life and lunch will be held on Friday, October 30, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Old City Park in Moab, weather permitting. If weather conditions prevent the gathering from taking place there, the family has advised visitors to check the Spanish Valley Mortuary website and social media for information about an alternate location.

As family and friends come together to honor Kelby, they will remember a young man who was deeply loved, full of imagination and taken far too soon. His life may have been brief, but the love he gave and the memories he leaves behind will remain with those who knew him.

May Kelby Craig Gerber rest in peace, and may his family and loved ones find strength in one another as they carry his memory forward.