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Skyline High School University of Utah

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Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park and Mortuary

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Clarann Larsen Obituary

Name: Visitation for Clarann Larsen
Start: 2017-01-28T01:00:00.000Z
End: 2017-01-28T03:00:00.000Z
Location: Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park and Mortuary

In Loving Memory
Clarann Carlisle Jacobs Larsen passed away January 23 in Salt Lake City, Utah. She was born January 14 in Salt Lake City, to Edward C. Carlisle and Priscilla M. Lindsay. She married Reed M. Jacobs, and then later married the love of her life, Arland L. Larsen. Clarann graduated from Granite High School and the University of Utah, where she was a member of Alpha Chi. She was an active member of the LDS Church throughout her life. She loved church music, serving for many years as ward chorister. Clarann loved life and she loved people, and she was a tremendous influence for hundreds if not thousands of people. For 43 years, she taught English and journalism at Skyline High School, and she enjoyed both her subjects and the students she taught. When she received a Huntsman Educator Award for outstanding teaching in 2001, many former students described how important she had been in their lives and careers. Clarann was keenly interested in pursuing knowledge. She frequently listened to National Public Radio and belonged to the prestigious book club Daria. She often attended the symphony, opera, ballet, and Shakespeare Festival. She loved to travel, and visited places like Russia, China, Machu Picchu and Antarctica. She loved family. She actively participated in family reunions and other events, was very supportive of all extended family and was an avid researcher of family history. She could be relied on to have any needed information about generations of family members. She always had a soft voice, sparking eyes and an infectious smile. She was a compassionate listener who never complained. The family will greatly miss the wise council of this dearly loved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Clarann is survived by her husband, Arland; brothers Lindsay (Carla), Al, and David; daughter Katherine (Brian) Wonnacott; daughter in-law Jana Jacobs; grandchildren Jordan (Patrick) Pavlisin, Keeva (Antonio) Juarez, Sean (Angie) Jacobs, Julie (Grant) Evelyn, and Josh (Sadie) Jacobs; and great grandchildren Mathew, Lucas, and Tyson Juarez and Alexa Jacobs. She also will be missed by Arland's children, Carol (Ron) Jessup, Leslie (Mike) Grass, and Ric (Michelle) Larsen, as well as Arland's grandchildren. Clarann was preceded in death by her beloved son Rusty, her parents, her step-brothers Thain and Clyde, and infant daughter Jolynn. Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 28, 2017, 11 a.m., at the LDS Olympus Cove Ward at 4407 S. Fortuna Way (3695 East), Salt Lake City. Friends and family may visit from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday before the service, and Friday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary at 3401 S Highland Drive, Salt Lake City. Interment will follow the service at Wasatch Lawn Cemetery. Donations may be given to Granite Education Foundation c/o Skyline High School visual and performing arts.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Deseret News from Jan. 26 to Jan. 28, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Clarann Larsen

Sponsored by Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park and Mortuary.

24 Entries

Kevan Crawford , PhD

April 18, 2017

My condolences to family and close friends of Clarann. Our paths crossed many times since sophomore English class. As I recall, she was the only teacher I had for all three years at Skyline. Mrs. Jacobs worked her gentle ways on me as I accepted her invitation to write on the sports page of the Horizon 1972-74. Her guidance in newspaper journalism reduced my anxiety over writing and prepared me for a career of writing concise scientific research papers.

A few years after my HS graduation I bumped into her in the tuition payment line at the UofU and we had a comprehensive conversation on my selected field of study while waiting for the line to move. (Remember the days of long lines?) About 25 years went by before met again, this time I was a colleague teaching science at Skyline, 2001-2. She discretely briefed me on the difficult situation I was stepping into so that I could survive the year as a first week replacement teacher. And a few years later on a visit back to my childhood home after getting back to my research career, I saw her one last time election canvassing.

While it may be inappropriate to speak for my journalism classmates, I am confident in saying that we all shall all miss her cheerful smile, upbeat attitude, the twinkle in her eyes, and the sage advice she offered. Clarann was one of only a few teachers that shaped my teaching style so that I could influence my students, from 9th graders to doctoral candidates, the same way she influenced me. No greater positive impact in shaping society could be achieved by a single person.

Irene Bortolussi

February 6, 2017

All my friends loved her as a teacher. Always wished I had taken journalism so I would have had her. She is one of the most loved teachers at Skyline High School and really brought out the best in all her students.

Lynn Cohne

February 4, 2017

Clarann was a friend and colleague mentoring this 1st year teacher as easily as her students. I will always be grateful for her help in encouraging me to be the best I could be.
Lynn F. Cohne, Skyline Faculty 1966-1969.

Sarah Gardner

January 30, 2017

Mrs Larsen was my English Teacher my Sophmore year and one of the best teachers I had.

She will be deeply missed by all the Eagles lives she touched.

Char Fliege

January 29, 2017

A few years ago the Skyline class of 1971 had a reunion and the some of the faculty attended the reunion. We were able to pay tribute to them and thank them for being "lighthouses" and teaching us right thoughts and actions. A few weeks later, I was able to find Mrs. Jacob's personal phone number, called her, and we spoke for over an hour. She talked about her incredible retirement life. Even in retirement she guided us by her kind acts and thoughts.

My sister was a student of Mrs. Jacobs (loved her) and years later I became her student. Knowing how to teach English to high school students is a very special and unique talent. As students, we needed to learn how to properly use the challenging English language in order to be successful personally and professionally. The outstanding awards in her life defined her as a "gold standard" professional in her profession.

The personal stories of those she guided into the world of professional journalism are amazing to read. My life has been in the US Space Program and communicate daily in the complex technical and scientific communities. Thank you Clarann for teaching me so much and preparing me for all the challenges in life.

When you look into the night sky find your favorite star or planet. Know that Clarann is beaming at you with that light and guiding you every single day. Those that have touched our hearts remain in our hearts forever.

God bless you Clarann in your new journey.

Cynthia (Christensen) Patience

January 28, 2017

Mrs Jacobs was my honors English teacher in the late 80s. When I think of her I remember how cheerful and happy she ALWAYS was! And I trace my love of words back to her and our study of the book 30 Days to a More Powerful Vocabulary. She was a wonderful teacher and such a caring woman!

January 28, 2017

I became a published author because I fell even more in love with words due to the influence of this wonderful woman. Thank you, Mrs. Larson, for all the knowledge and joy that you shared with me and my peers. What a privilege to have you as my teacher... Alane Ferguson

John Gough

January 28, 2017

Count me among the many thousands who were impacted by this fine lady. I was a Sophomore in Mrs. Jacobs English class in the Fall of 1963. While not my favorite subject, I looked forward to her class because she was always so cheerful and positive. She truly cared about me and she made me feel important. I will never forget Mrs. Jacobs.

Brent Petersen

January 28, 2017

Mrs. Jacobs was my journalism teacher at Skyline when I was a Junior and Senior (Class of '72). She was such a wonderful mentor to so many aspiring writers. I certainly don't remember everything I learned in high school, but the ability to use the written word is a gift I have cherished my entire life. Thank you Mrs. Jacobs for your patience in teaching so many kids. What a profound influence you had on my life.

James Felt

January 28, 2017

"Mrs. J." had a greater impact on my life than any other teacher. Her compassion, encouragement and positive guidance enabled a shy, unmotivated high school student to get excited about school, strive for good grades and become involved in the Skyline journalism program. Under her tutelage I served as sports editor for the 1966-67 school year. Because of that experience, I minored in journalism at the U. of U. and subsequently taught journalism at Olympus High School for 29 years. Although history is my main teaching assignment, I greatly enjoyed being the newspaper adviser helping mentor future journalists even as Mrs. J. mentored me. As I continue my teaching career now in its 45th year, I am constantly influenced by Mrs. J's teaching model. I remind myself to show students the same kind of respect, concern and kindness that were so intrinsic to her character and that had such a beneficial influence on me, my siblings and so many other lives. Thank you, Clarann.

January 28, 2017

Such a lovely lady will surely be missed. 1 Thessalonians 4:14 tells us God will also remember those who have fallen asleep in death. May His will be done on earth as in heaven.

Judith Carlisle Turner

January 27, 2017

My brothers and I offer our condolences to Clarann's family and friends. She was truly an amazing teacher and role model.

Lynn Bortolussi

January 27, 2017

Clarann Jacobs was my English teacher in 1966. In my book she was numero uno. I had her for only one semester but what an impression she left me with. I was assigned to her class after flunking out junior english class due to a personality conflict with a different english teacher. I was deeply humiliated as a Senior sitting in a Junior english class. Mrs Jacobs however displayed confidence in me immediately and I did not want to dissapoint her. She rewarded me with an A. That is not the end of the story. She tried to get my failing grade changed to a passing one. I will never forget how she went to bat for me. I can say that single act of courage changed my life for the better.

Several years ago I tried to get in touch with her by leaving my contact info at Skyline High's office. I was curious if she would remember me? Per what another former student wrote wondering the same thing I think now she would have.

Her life was one filled with service and there is no doubt in my mind that her reward in Heaven will be of the highest order..

Love you forever Clarann!!!!

Sincerely,
Lynn Bortolussi - class of 1966
(Spring TX)

Michael Stathis, Ph.D.

January 27, 2017

"Mrs. J" was an inspiration for so many of her students, indeed, in some cases she was the difference between success and something else. Because of her I realized that I was worth something and could do positive things in life. All or our love for her and her family.

Robert Birkinshaw

January 27, 2017

Mrs. Jacobs/Larsen was a wonderful example on every level. She allowed me to discover my love for writing. My heart goes out to Arlan and the family. God Bless you all.

Bryan Shepherd

January 27, 2017

Mrs. Jacobs was a wonderful person and teacher, and I'm fortunate that I had the chance to be on her journalism staff from '92-'93. I remember being angry that they raised the prices on the football tickets and I planned a column for the sports page complaining about it. In her nice way, Mrs. Jacobs suggested that I interview a few people about the price change. I learned a lot from my interviews (that football tickets supported almost all sports), and completely changed the tone of my column. That was Mrs. Jacobs' way -- quietly making suggestions that had a big impact. I loved Paul Rolly's editorial about her in the Salt Lake Tribune (Jan 26, 2017), because it describes her so well. Thanks Mrs. Jacobs -- you positively impacted many lives, including mine.

Nate Laver

January 27, 2017

Mrs. Jacobs provided a turning point, of sorts, for me when she offered hope to a failing student. She invited me to write for the Horizon, even though I was struggling in her English class. I went on to write for two years at Skyline and for a year in college. She was an influence for good in the lives of so many people. I am grateful to have known her.

Lonnie Mayne

January 27, 2017

Mrs. Jacobs was my favorite teacher. There was just something about her kind and helpful way of teaching that made you never want to disappoint her. I worked hard in her class because she could see something in everyone and she wanted to best for me. I remember on occasion her letting me out early to get ready for my football games and I just thought the was the best for that:) She will indeed be missed but not forgotten by me. All my love and prayers to the family.

Brian Preece

January 26, 2017

Mrs. J, as she was known by her students, was a great educator and marvelous woman. I am a teacher and part-time journalist because of her inspiration. Best wishes to all her family and friends, she will be missed by many!

Deveda Vernon

January 26, 2017

Clarann was a dear friend and colleague. I enjoyed being in her book club. She loved books almost as much as she loved people. Sincere condolences to her family. She will be missed.

Barbara Winder

January 26, 2017

Our association dates back to High School days, thru college, and continued thru the years with a luncheon group. She was always steady and positive, reflecting goodness, and so helpful and pleasant with others. May her loved ones feel the peace of the Comforter through this time of transition.

Michael Gates

January 26, 2017

Clarann was a lovely, intelligent, caring friend and colleague for 34 years. When my wife died in 1997, she took time from work to help me until my sister could arrive from Oregon. We attended many various events together over the years. When she and I read names at Skyline graduations, she would sit down with me before so that I would be able to pronounce them correctly. That's how well she knew and cared about students. I shall miss her vibrant personality.

Geri McMurdie

January 26, 2017

Mrs. Jacobs was my Journalism and English teacher at Skyline from 1970-73 and I can honestly say she made those difficult high school years bearable! Many, many years later we reconnected and even though she had taught hundreds of students over the years she remembered me, amazing and touching! I have never talked to one of her students that didn't love her. When I began working at Key Bank she was a customer and every time she came in it was like a ray of sunshine. I ran into her at the store about a month ago and she was her sweet happy self...She remains in my heart. Blessings to her family and all who knew her, she will be missed.

Jim Ekins

January 26, 2017

Those in the Skyline Class of '71 who knew her (and so many of us did), will miss her dearly. She was a kind and thoughtful educator, mentor and friend. Several of us had the opportunity to renew our friendship with her at our 40th year reunion in 2011. She gave so much to so many over so many years. God bless.

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