Remembering Clare Gubler: A Heartfelt Tribute In St. George

There are a select group of people in St. George who don't just live here... they shape what the community feels like. Clarence "Clare" Gubler was absolutely one of those people. If you grew up in Southern Utah, there's a high chance you've eaten at Durango's Mexican Grill, and an even better chance that you've shared a quick conversation with Clare himself. He wasn't just the owner, he was the heart of Durango's. This week, St. George is remember Clare after he passed away surrounded by his family following a courageous battle with Multiple System Atrophy.

The Heart of Durango’s

For me, this one hits different. Clare was my next door neighbor growing up, and Durango's has been my favorite St. George restaurant since it's inception. If you've ever been there, you know what made it special. It wasn't the food (which is elite), it was Clare. Clare was always there, working, smiling, and making sure your order was correct. He was the kind of guy who would double check your order and remind you about the dressing, and making sure you grabbed your silverware on the way out. Clare genuinely cared that your experience at Durango's was perfect... And it was.

Building a Legacy: Clare's Roots and Culinary Journey

Clare's story is a St. George classic. Born and raised here, a Dixie High graduate of 1973, and he built his life around family, faith, hard work, and delicious food. Clare got his start in the restaurant world as a Denny's cook before becoming the general manager of Shoney's in 1990. In 2003, Clare, along with his loving wife Alicia, took a massive leap and created something that would become a Southern Utah icon: Durango's Mexican Grill. Through all the years, Clare served thousands of meals, but more importantly, he built relationships with people that walked through those glass doors.

Even after selling the restaurant a few years ago, Durango's still carries Clare's fingerprints, but anyone who knew Clare can tell it's not quite the same without him there.

A Legacy of Kindness: The Influence of Clare Gubler

Clare leaves behind a legacy of kindness, community and consistency. The kind of legacy that doesn't fade, it lives on in every plate, every memory, and every person that walked out of Durango's feeling better than when they walked in.

Celebrating Clare’s Life: Family and Community Farewell

Clare is survived by his lovely wife, Alicia; his children: Lindsay Gardner (Mason), Courtney (Mandi), Alex, and Ashlyn; and his eight grandchildren: Macie, Camden, Ivie, Ainsley, Ali, Dylan, Sophie, and Brem. He is also survived by his mother, Joyce Snow; his brothers: Steven, Curtis, and Doug; and his father-in-law, Nolan Ashman.

A celebration of Clare’s life will be held on Saturday March 21, 2026 at 1:00 p.m., with a viewing prior from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at Metcalf Bonzo Mortuary 288 West St George Blvd. Interment for the family will follow at Tonaquint Cemetery.