Knock Three Times: From JT Wheels to Apple Blossom, Jerry Talbot’s Legacy on Wheels
Jerry Talbot: Entrepreneur, Car Enthusiast, and Community Pillar
Jerry Talbot, a cherished former resident and beloved community member, passed away peacefully in 2021, at the age of 78. Born on Christmas Day, 1942, in Salt Lake City, he was the youngest of five children and grew up in Magna. There, he met his lifelong sweetheart, Kathy, and they were married in 1960. Kathy was his whole world, and after her passing in 2007, Jerry devoted himself to acts of kindness that brought joy to others, including making and giving away nearly 800 handcrafted hot pads and delighting children and adults alike with $2 bills, earning him the affectionate nickname “$2 Bill Grandpa.”
Jerry’s work ethic was evident from a young age. At six, he earned money collecting and sorting soda bottles, and his drive and ingenuity would carry him throughout his life. He attended Cyprus High School, Snow College and the University of Utah, then worked at Kennecott Utah Copper as a front-line foreman for nearly 20 years. Known for his sharp mind and leadership, Jerry also pursued numerous entrepreneurial ventures—from selling firewood, tomato plants, and flea market items to buying and selling cars and operating a gas station.
One of Jerry’s most enduring contributions to the community was his purchase of the S&M Skating Rink, which he renamed JT Wheels. For fifteen years, the rink served as a safe, fun gathering place for local youth. Recognizing the evolving needs of the community, Jerry later transformed the building into the Apple Blossom Wedding and Special Events Center, preserving the hardwood floors and adding elegant touches including arches, columns, tilework, and a state-of-the-art sound system. The center continues to host weddings, family reunions, and business events, maintaining Jerry’s commitment to creating a welcoming space for all.
Jerry was also passionate about cars, particularly Corvettes and other vintage vehicles. His pride and joy was his red 1956 Corvette, which he drove with the top down for parades, car shows, and local events, winning multiple trophies and sharing smiles with the community.
Beyond his business acumen and hobbies, Jerry was a devoted father, grandfather, and storyteller. He loved taking his family on hunting, fishing, and camping trips and traveling the world with Kathy. Known for his quick wit, humor, and generosity, Jerry left an enduring mark on everyone who knew him. His life was a testament to hard work, creativity, and the joy of giving, and his legacy continues in the family, the community, and the places he loved so dearly.
