Louis J. “Louie” Sanone, a beloved Utah original, husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, brother in law, friend, and mentor, passed away peacefully at home on August 18, 2026, surrounded by those who loved him most.
Born in Salt Lake City on January 13, 1942, to Dewey L. Sanone and Ellen Englund Sanone, Louie was a lifelong Utahn. He graduated from South High School in 1960 and spent most of his life in Salt Lake City before recently moving to Murray.
As a high school senior in 1960, Louie and nine close friends joined the 365th Ninth Ordnance Company of the Utah National Guard, serving six months of active duty at Fort Ord, California. He cherished the friendships and memories made in San Francisco, Monterey, and Carmel. During the Berlin Wall Crisis, his brother John and many friends were called to active duty at Fort Lewis, while Louie enjoyed time in Seattle and the World’s Fair, forming lasting memories of youth and adventure.
On June 23, 1969, Louie married Mary Serrano, the love of his life. Their 57-year marriage was filled with love, laughter, travel, and adventure, including trips throughout the Caribbean, Europe, the South Pacific, Hawaii, Mexico, San Diego, Lake Tahoe, and many favorite destinations across the western United States.
Louie lived life fully. He loved fishing and boating. There wasn’t a body of water in Utah that he hadn’t touched. Lake Powell, Flaming Gorge, Strawberry, Cliff Lake Montana and West Yellowstone all held a special place in his heart.
Handball was his salvation, earning induction into the Utah Handball Hall of Fame in 2024. He proudly supported the sport as a player and sponsor of all local tournaments and as a sponsor of the World Players of Handball Championships in Salt Lake City. In the 1980s, he also joined friends in “The Over the Hill Gang,” racing desert motorcycles across the West and returning home with trophies and stories to match.
Louie carried on his family’s legacy at Dewey’s Bail Bonds, founded by his father in 1950. From the 1960s forward, he built the business into a respected Utah institution, now continued by his son Dominic and a dedicated team. He also served on the Utah Bail Bond Oversight Board from 1990 to 2001, helping modernize and professionalize the industry through strong relationships and meaningful reform.
A devoted Utah football fan, Louie held season tickets for decades and rarely missed a chance to tailgate and cheer on his team.
His greatest legacy was his generosity. He supported countless youth sports teams and organizations, from Little League to high school athletics, as well as amateur boxing and handball. He was a steady presence and father figure to many young men, offering guidance, humor, and unwavering support.
Louie was preceded in death by his parents, Dewey Sanone and Ellen Englund Sanone; his brother, John Sanone; his brother-in-law, Shane Jakeman; and countless friends and extended family.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Mary; his son, Dominic; daughter-in-law, Diana; grandchildren Gianna and Domi, whom he adored; his sisters Concetta (Setti) Sanone Jakeman and Sherri (Mary Ellen) Sanone Gagliardi (Frank); and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.
His friend group, too many to name, was one of his greatest treasures. The Flagel Gang, The Over the Hill Gang, The Handball Crew, The Tailgaters, The Poker Players, and many more.
“Lou” was a true legend—larger than life, with a generous heart and unforgettable spirit. His laughter, kindness, and wisdom will live on in all who knew him.
He will be deeply loved, deeply missed, and never forgotten.
There are countless “Louisms” that we all know. Let’s end on this one.
“Gawd, Gawd where you going? Let’s have a cocktail!!!”
“Send Off Party” To be held at The Scholarship Room Rice Eccles Tower Sept 5th 12pm-5pm. Please come celebrate Lou’s life with friends and family.
