Gary E. Stevenson serves as a respected member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. A former successful businessman, he transitioned from building a major fitness equipment company to full-time religious leadership. Born on August 6, 1955, this Utah native inspires millions through his teachings on faith, family, and peacemaking.
Fans search for details on Gary E. Stevenson age, his wife, Gary E. Stevenson net worth, business background, height, and role in the LDS Church. This biography covers his early years in Cache Valley, remarkable career path, devoted family life, and global influence as a spiritual leader.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gary Evan Stevenson |
| Date of Birth | August 6, 1955 |
| Age | 70 (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Ogden, Utah, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Religious leader, former businessman |
| Net Worth | Estimated $5-50 million (varies by source) |
| Spouse/Partner | Lesa Jean Higley |
| Children | Four sons |
| Education | Utah State University (B.S. Business Administration) |
| Religion | The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints |
| Height | Approximately 6 feet |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Hair Color | Gray |
| Zodiac Sign | Leo |
| Known For | Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, ICON Health & Fitness co-founder, peacemaker teachings |
| Social Media | Instagram: @garyestevenson |
Early Life and Background
Gary Evan Stevenson was born on August 6, 1955, in Ogden, Utah, and raised primarily in the Cache Valley area. He grew up in the 1960s and 1970s in a supportive Latter-day Saint family with strong community ties. His parents, Evan N. and Vera Jean Hall Stevenson, instilled values of hard work, education, and faith that shaped his character.
As a young man, Stevenson served a full-time mission in the Japan Fukuoka Mission during the mid-1970s. This experience deepened his commitment to the LDS Church and exposed him to international cultures. Upon returning, he attended Utah State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 1977.
The Cache Valley region offered a mix of rural roots and growing opportunities in education and business. Stevenson’s early interests combined entrepreneurship with spiritual service. These formative years during a time of economic expansion in the American West built his foundation in both commerce and gospel principles. Family, education, and church involvement remained central throughout his youth.
Career and Rise to Fame
While still a student at Utah State University, Gary E. Stevenson co-founded ICON Health & Fitness, Inc. (now iFIT Health & Fitness) in 1977. He served as president and chief operating officer, helping grow the company into a global leader in exercise equipment with popular brands like NordicTrack and ProForm.
He stepped away from day-to-day operations in 2008 to focus on church service. Stevenson served as president of the Japan Nagoya Mission from 2004 to 2007. He became a member of the First Quorum of the Seventy in 2008 and later served as Presiding Bishop from 2012 to 2015.
His big break in religious leadership came in October 2015 when he was sustained as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. This calling placed him among the church’s highest leaders.
Key milestones include:
- Co-founding and scaling ICON Health & Fitness into a major industry player.
- Serving in key international church assignments in Asia.
- Leading as Presiding Bishop overseeing global welfare and temporal affairs.
- Delivering impactful general conference addresses, including messages on becoming peacemakers.
Mini Timeline of Major Moments:
- 1974-1976: Serves Japan Fukuoka Mission.
- 1977: Co-founds ICON Health & Fitness and graduates from USU.
- 2004-2007: Presides over Japan Nagoya Mission.
- 2008: Called to First Quorum of the Seventy.
- 2012-2015: Serves as Presiding Bishop.
- 2015: Sustained to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
- 2020s: Continues worldwide ministry and teachings on faith and peacemaking.
Gary E. Stevenson blends business acumen with dedicated LDS service. His profession as a religious leader now defines his public role.
Personal Life, Spouse, Children and Family
Gary E. Stevenson married Lesa Jean Higley on April 20, 1979, in the Idaho Falls Idaho Temple. The couple met while attending Utah State University. They have raised four sons together and enjoy a close family life centered on gospel principles.
The Stevensons prioritize time together despite demanding church responsibilities. Gary has spoken warmly about Lesa’s support and their shared experiences raising their family in northern Utah. Like many church leaders, he keeps some personal details private while emphasizing the importance of strong marriages and homes.
Net Worth and Sources of Income
Gary E. Stevenson net worth estimates range from several million to higher figures, largely tied to his earlier business success with ICON Health & Fitness. Reports vary due to private company valuations and his full focus on church service since 2008.
Wealth primarily comes from past business ownership and investments. As an apostle, he receives modest living allowances typical for full-time church leaders rather than corporate salaries. He has lived a relatively modest lifestyle focused on service. Assets likely include real estate and investments from his entrepreneurial years.
Controversies and Challenges
Gary E. Stevenson has maintained a reputation for integrity with no major personal controversies. Public discussions sometimes arise around church leaders’ past business holdings and potential wealth. He has addressed these indirectly through a life of transparency and dedication to church principles.
Stevenson responds to challenges with quiet dignity and continued focus on his ministry. His record shows consistent service without notable legal or public setbacks.
Latest News and Upcoming Projects
Information current as of May 2026.
Gary E. Stevenson continues active worldwide ministry as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. He delivers messages at general conferences, including recent teachings on becoming peacemakers in a divided world. He maintains an official Instagram account where he shares inspirational content.
Expect ongoing travel, devotional addresses, and leadership in church initiatives.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Gary E. Stevenson represents the blend of business success and spiritual devotion within the LDS Church. His teachings on peacemaking, family, and discipleship resonate with members globally. He inspires many through his example of integrity and service.
The public admires his humility and ability to connect faith with everyday life. He will be remembered as a dedicated apostle who guided the church with wisdom gained from both corporate and ministerial experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is Gary E. Stevenson?
Gary E. Stevenson was born on August 6, 1955, making him 70 years old in 2026. He remains energetically active in his apostolic responsibilities.
Who is Gary E. Stevenson wife?
Gary E. Stevenson wife is Lesa Jean Higley. They married in 1979 and have built a strong partnership centered on faith and family.
What is Gary E. Stevenson net worth?
Gary E. Stevenson net worth is estimated in the millions, primarily from his successful fitness equipment business before full-time church service. Exact current figures remain private.
What is Gary E. Stevenson’s profession and business?
He co-founded ICON Health & Fitness (iFIT), serving as president until 2008. His current profession is as a religious leader in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the LDS Church.
What is Gary E. Stevenson height?
Gary E. Stevenson stands approximately 6 feet tall. He is known for his warm presence and approachable demeanor in public ministry.
Gary E. Stevenson continues to touch lives through faithful leadership and timeless gospel messages. His journey from entrepreneur to apostle highlights dedication and service. For stories of modern entrepreneurs, explore Mr Thank You. Discover influential business families in the profile of David Rockefeller. According to his Wikipedia page, his contributions strengthen faith communities worldwide. Follow his official Instagram for the latest teachings and updates.