Carolynn Burt: From Scott’s Drive-In to City Hall, A Life of Service
Tribute to Carolynn Burt (1937–2012)
Carolynn June Canterbury Burt was a woman of vision, determination, and generosity whose influence reached deep into West Valley City and far beyond. Born June 28, 1937, in Salt Lake City, she married her high school sweetheart, Wesley “Buzz” Burt, in 1954. Together, they built a life filled with love, faith, and service, raising four children, welcoming 13 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, and running successful businesses that became community landmarks.
In 1961, Carolynn and Buzz moved to West Valley City, where they purchased and operated several businesses, most memorably Scott’s Drive-In on 3500 South, along with a gas station and car wash. For more than 35 years, Scott’s became a community gathering place and tradition. Thousands of teenagers worked their first jobs there under Carolynn’s direction, and countless families made Scott’s a part of their daily lives. Carolynn and Buzz’s work ethic, fairness, and care for people created a legacy that remains fondly remembered today.
Her impact also stretched into the world of swimming. What began as a way to spend time with her grandson grew into decades of leadership and advocacy in Utah Swimming. Carolynn became a certified official, then rose to serve as General Chairperson of Utah Swimming, officiating at meets throughout the Intermountain West and even at the U.S. Olympic Trials in 2004 and 2008. She was twice named Phillips 66 Volunteer of the Year and received the Maxwell Award of Excellence in Officiating in 2010. For 20 years she officiated at the Huntsman World Senior Games, helping certify world records. Her persistence, financial support, and leadership helped transform Utah Swimming into the strong program it is today.
In 1998, Carolynn answered another call to service, this time in local government. Initially appointed to fill a vacant seat, she went on to serve 13 years as West Valley City’s District 1 Councilwoman. From the very beginning, she was outspoken and determined. “I’m not a wallflower,” she once said—and her record proved it. She advocated tirelessly for her district, often taking bold stands even when it meant being on the minority side of the vote. She once invited City Manager Wayne Pyle on a bumpy ride down 2200 West to prove her point that the neglected street needed repairs. The city listened, and the street was fixed.
Her list of accomplishments as a councilwoman is long. She championed the creation of three city parks, supported public art—including donating $6,000 toward the first piece installed at the Maverik Center—and insisted that the Family Fitness Center’s pools meet competition standards. When funding fell short, she paid personally for starter blocks, record boards, and additional timing systems. Beyond that, she donated park benches, supported Hale Centre Theatre, and gave to after-school education programs. Even as her time in office ended in December 2011, she pledged the remainder of her council salary—$40,000—to help fund the carillon bell tower at Fairbourne Station.
Alongside fellow councilman, Carolynn helped shape West Valley City into a “first-class city,” in the words of Mayor Mike Winder. Together, they were part of the council that brought the Maverik Center, Utah Cultural Celebration Center, Hale Centre Theatre, and the Family Fitness Center to the city. Winder called their departure “the end of an era.”
Through it all, Carolynn remained deeply devoted to her family, her community, and her faith. Whether serving hamburgers at Scott’s Drive Inn, officiating at a swim meet, or fighting for her constituents, she gave her time, energy, and even her personal resources to make life better for others.
Carolynn Burt’s life was a testament to action, conviction, and love. She left behind a city forever changed by her leadership, a swimming community strengthened by her dedication, and a family who carries her legacy forward with pride.
