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BORN
1958
DIED
2010
Karleen Stoker-Meeks Obituary
Karleen was the essence of grace, walking valiantly in the ways of the Lord. Her shining example of charity, compassion and service has left a lasting impression on those who had the privilege of knowing her. Karleen's passion for life and love of family was contagious. She never missed an opportunity to spend time with family and friends. Always ready with a listening ear, she was the one we turned to share life's ups and downs. She loved being outdoors, soaking in the sun and being at one with nature. Her talents extended into music, and when she sang, it was with the voice of an angel. All who know her know that she sincerely loves them and considers them dear friends.
She grew up in Logan, attending Logan City schools and graduated from Logan High School. She earned a bachelor's degree in early childhood education from Utah State and a master's degree in education. She never had to work a day in her life because her job as a teacher was a dream come true. She started out at the USU Child Development Lab, Head Start Program and private preschool programs. For the last 20 years she has taught first grade and kindergarten students in Riverton, South Jordan and Kaysville public schools. In spite of her limitations, her ever-present love for her students encouraged her to begin another year of teaching this fall. She is loved dearly by all her students over the years and their families whose lives she profoundly touched.
Karleen and Krista have been more like sisters and best friends than mother and daughter since the beginning. Yet, in her beautiful way, she was the most incredible mother and example. Krista was her angel here on earth. Now Karleen can be hers.
She has served faithfully in church assignments including Relief Society, Primary and Young Women.
Karleen and her family have heartfelt gratitude for the love and service given by friends, neighbors, ward members and school associates both before and during her illness. This has been an example of true Christlike love.
She is survived and dearly loved by her daughter, Krista; her parents; six brothers and sisters: Sheryl Stoker of Logan, Theron (Fran) Stoker of Layton, David (Helen) Stoker of Bountiful, Darrell Stoker of Riverton, Marie (Nathan) Eldredge of Sugar House and Brian (Ramsi) Stoker of Aurora, Colo.; 13 nieces and nephews; and ex-husband Bruce E. Meeks. She was preceded in death by a brother, Kenneth Stoker, and by her maternal and paternal grandparents.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 11, 2010, at the Kaysville Stake Center located at 900 S. Main St. Family and friends may call at Russon Brothers Mortuary, 1941 N. Main St., Farmington, Utah (just across the street and south of Cherry Hill), from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 10, 2010, or from 9 to 10 a.m. at the LDS chapel on the day of the funeral services.
Interment will be in the Logan, Utah City Cemetery with graveside services at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 11, 2010.
Online guest book and condolences at www.russonmortuary.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Karleen Stoker-Meeks
Sandra Jeffs
September 21, 2010
Krista and Family,
My heart was deeply saddened to hear of Karleen's passing. I had the privilege of knowing her for several years when she lived in South Jordan. Not only was Karleen a beautiful woman, words cannot describe the inner beauty of her spirit. She was a glowing example of faith and happiness, and lifted up and inspired everyone around her. All my love and prayers to Krista and loved ones.
Christa Tanner
September 14, 2010
I am so sorry I did not hear about your passing until just today when I saw the sign in Kaysville. I always considered you a good friend and looked forward to your visits. I will miss you deeply.
Christa Tanner
Janae Mitchell
September 13, 2010
Dearest Stoker Family and Krista,
My heart is shocked and SO saddened to have heard just today of precious Karleen passing away. It was just last month that I tracked her down to add her as a friend on Facebook, and I had been hoping to get in contact with her. I have thought of her and Krista so often over the past decades that we have lived apart, and she has always been in my thoughts as one of the dearest, kindest, & most loving friends that I've EVER had and I will miss her tremendously, as I'm sure you all will too. She and I ALWAYS had SO MUCH FUN WHEN WE WERE TOGETHER! Even though we hadn't spoken for such a long time, I know that we would have picked up where we left off with a "HELLO TO YOU MY FRIEND!" exclamation and laughter. Every moment spent remembering her and thinking of her brings me nothing but joy and fondness. Please know that my thoughts, love, and prayers go out to you all in this time of saddness. How happy I am to have the knowledge that we will see her again once our own lives here are over. I loved her dearly. And I miss her so much already. May God bless you & bring you peace now and always. Janae (Johnson) Mitchell
September 13, 2010
Dear Krista, I don't know if you'll remember me but I met you and your mother when you were a small girl and we all lived in the Cottonwood Hills Condos in Sandy. When we moved away I was sad as I dearly loved your mother and the friendship we shared. It was wonderful to see you both again when we lived in South Jordan. I am so sorry that she is gone. She was AND STILL IS a beautiful, loving person. I pray that your wealth of memories will bring you comfort, happiness and even at times tears of joy as you reflect on the special person you were so lucky to have as a mother. She will always be with you. We love you and will keep you in our thoughts and prayers, Jill and Patrick VanDongen- South Jordan
Launa Jaynes
September 11, 2010
Dear Uncle Lynn, Aunt Ruth, Krista, and all the rest of the family...I add my heartfelt sympathy for the early exit of Karleen. What fun I have had with your family from babysitting for you in Twin Falls to so many wonderful Stoker Reunions. Karleen was a happy, sweet, and loving little girl who grew into a beautiful and inspiring young woman; and then into a dedicated, serene, and gifted teacher. The fun continued as she hosted us at "grown-up sleepovers" and get togethers to gab, gab, gab!! It was even better because we added Krista to the fold and watched the wonder of Karleen and Krista's love for each other. Yes, Karleen is taking those same traits and that great personality to the next level and "earth's loss" is "heaven's gain"! I love you all and I will truly miss her.....Launa (Stoker) Jaynes
Kelli Ross
September 10, 2010
stoker family, all of my thoughts, love and prayers are with you at this time! What an amazing woman Karleen is! It is such a a joy to think about all of the fun weekends we spent at her home. She was always smiling and her laugh just made me happy! She is truly one of a kind and everyone that knew her is blessed to have known her! I am so grateful for your amazing family and for your love and friendship through the years! May the love of dear friends and family comfort you and sustain you through this time! All my love, Kelli Ross
Julie Harris
September 10, 2010
Dear Ms. Meeks,
When I read your obituary this morning my heart was very saddened. Both of my boys had you for their first grade teacher at Rosamond Elementary in Riverton back in the early '90s. They have very fond memories of you and you were definitely one of their favorites. I too have memories of helping out in your classroom and getting to know you. Your love of teaching always shined through. You were so cute with the kids and I know they just loved you. I remember all of the parents trying to get their kids on the right track (I believe it was C track) to get into your class. I am sure this was the case at every school you taught at. I am sure as with my boys you have been a true inspiration to each and every one of your students. You will be missed by many.
Jake & Kori Richards
September 10, 2010
Our oldest son Grant was able to be part of Ms. Meeks class this new year. Even though we were only able to know Ms. Meeks for a few weeks, she will have a lasting impression on all of our lives. Like the majority of her students and their parents, we did not get word of her passing until Grant was in class. When he got home, Kori asked him what happened today? In his own words he said: "....You know Ms. Meeks...? Yes, she replied. "...Well she died...but, it's ok, she's in Heaven and doesn't hurt any more and I will get to see her again." Without missing a beat he continued..."Hey, I know what...maybe she can still be my teacher when I see her again...." With tear filled eyes we told him: "yes Grant, we know for sure that she will be ready to teach you when you get there."
I think as adults we over-complicate the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Thank you Grant for reminding me how simple it truly is and thank you Ms. Meeks for having such a profound influence on our family that it spans both sides of the veil.
Jake, Kori and Grant Richards
Ally, Wes Hill
September 10, 2010
Mama Meeks,
Thank you so much for being my second mom! I appreciate all the late night chats and slumber parties we were able to share together. You have taught me so much about patience, dilligence, and enduring to the end. We will love you always and forever and can't wait to be reunited in the life hereafter!
Love, love, love... Ally and Wes Hill
Jake & Kori Richards
September 10, 2010
Our oldest son Grant was able to be part of Ms. Meeks class this new year. Even though we were only able to know Ms. Meeks for a few weeks, she will have a lasting impression on all of our lives. Like the majority of her students, we did not get word of her passing until Grant was in class. When he got home, Kori asked him what happened today? In his own words he said: "....You know Ms. Meeks...? Yes, she replied. "...Well she died...but, it's ok, she's in Heaven and doesn't hurt any more and I will get to see her again." Without missing a beat he continued..."Hey, I know what...maybe she can still be my teacher when I see her again...." With tear filled eyes we told him: "yes Grant, we know for sure that she will be ready to teach you when you get there."
I think as adults we over-complicate the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Thank you Grant for reminding me how simple it truly is and thank you Ms. Meeks for having such a profound influence on our family that it spans both sides of the veil.
Jake, Kori and Grant Richards
Paul Allen
September 10, 2010
Stoker Family:
Our hearts and prayers are with you that you may be comforted at this time. I have not had association with Karleen since college, but I'm not surprised at the amazing life she has lived and the impact she has had on others, because she was that way when I knew and associated with her from grade school up through high school. She was always a kind, fun-filled, caring person, with high personal moral standards who lived a Christ-like life and was an example to all. All of us were blessed to have association with her.
September 9, 2010
Karleen and I had the best time at Utah State University. Time has kept us intouch and connected. We both ended up teaching kindergarten. I had the opportunity of going and spending the day with Karleen two years ago in her classroom. We have both gone through sorrows in our lives, but have recognized the strength we both had to know the beauty of life. I will miss you very much my sweet Karleen. You were an inspiration to me. I will miss you dear friend! But I know I will see that smile again.
Vicki Kielsmeier, Syracuse, Utah
Connie Robins
September 9, 2010
What a beautiful obituary for a truly amazing woman. She was an angel here on earth. She was such an example to me in her daily life and in her teaching. You as a family has set a wonderful example too of love, sacrifice, and strength of family. Thank you! My prayers are with you all.
September 9, 2010
My dear friend Karleen, You are an amazing friend and sister in the gospel. I want to thank you for your unselfish love and support that you gave our daughter Krystal when we left South Jordan for KC Missouri. Our family are so lucky to have the privilege of having you both for eternal friends. Our family express our condolences to you Krista.
"Kia Kaha" (Be strong) Krista, our prayers are with you always. Our home is yours when ever you want to visit.
We love you Karleen and Krista......
Bruce, Fia, Angie, Krystal, Bruce Jr & Daniel Hammond...Kansas City Missouri
Amy Steele
September 9, 2010
I had the opportunity to work with sweet Karleen. There wasn't a better, more kind, thoughtful, and Christ-like person who endured to the end. She truly was and is a strength and example to me and to all she came in contact with. My life has been touched and blessed because I knew her. I love her so much. My thoughts are prayers are with you Krista and family.
Amy Steele
Merilee Stevenson Averett
September 9, 2010
Dear Stoker Family and Krista,
I send my thoughts and prayers your way with Karleen's passing. What an amazing, couragous woman she was. She was the epitomy of un-selfish. She was a devoted friend. She and Krista opened their home up to me many times. I will hold memories of time spent with Karleen close to my heart. She most certainly left the world a better place.
Sincerely, Merilee
Linda Croft
September 9, 2010
Dear Stoker Family:
It is sad to loose beloved members of a closely knit family. Even though I have never met Karleen, it seemed I knew her well after reading her obituary. Congratulations on rearing such a lovely daughter. May heaven cover your emotions and aid in rapid healing. Accept my sympathy. Linda
Katie Stoker
September 9, 2010
Karleen had a way of making everyone feel welcome. I felt like part of the family the instant that I met her and felt her love. The world is a little sadder without her in it, but I just feel priveledged that I had the short time that I did with her. She made an everlasting influence on my life.
Judy Armstrong
September 9, 2010
I didn't know she was sick. I hadn't seen her recently but consider her a wonderful friend. I enjoyed working with her at Head Start and the times I would see her after that. My heart goes out to her family and especially her daughter. I know about loss and it is so hard. The pain will dull but the good memories will always be there.
Branigan and Julie Knowlton
September 9, 2010
Love, prayers, condolences...to Krista and the entire Stoker family.
Lezlee Bylund
September 9, 2010
Karleen you are amazing! I love you so much! You were like a second mom to me. Thank you for always being willing to listen and give advice. You always knew how to brighten my day. I can't tell you how happy I was to have you at my sealing. That is something that I will never forget. I love you and am missing you. You are Krista's Angel.
Kristi Frodsham
September 9, 2010
It was my privilege to work with Karleen "Ms Meeks" for several years at Kaysville Elementary. The day she interviewed for the Kindergarten position we KNEW she was a star and we would be crazy not to "snatch her up." Before she left the building I remember bolting out of my office to see if I could catch her. We had other interviews scheduled but our decision was made. How lucky we were that she said,"yes." Her heart and skill combined to create a magical environment for little folks just beginning school. That same heart and skill blessed all of the adults who grew to know and love her. I am one of those who has been so blessed.
Ruth Gerritsen-McKane
September 9, 2010
Dear Krista, May the Eternal Plan of Happiness comfort you at this time!
Kari Forbush
September 9, 2010
Karleen has left a great impression on both of my children's lives. We love and will miss her. She will be forever in our hearts!
Sabrina & Dustin Redmond
September 9, 2010
My son was blessed to be in Ms. Meeks kindergarten class last year. She always made him feel loved and special. I always felt peaceful when I was with her and enjoyed her glowing smile. Her light will always remain in our hearts, and thank you for sharing her with us. My love, light and prayers go out to each of you. She gave him a card at the end of the year that said, "It Mint (with a mint attached) so much to have you in my class" and so I say to her; "It Mint so much to have you in our lives" With gratitude, we love you~
Holly Stats
September 9, 2010
Mrs. Meeks was all of my kids' kindergarten teacher. My daughter, Lexi, just started with her this year and even though she only knew her a couple of weeks, she loved her. She was truly amazing. The best teacher. She will be dearly missed by all the students, parents, and faculty of Kaysville Elementary. She made everyone feel like the most important person in the room.
Susan Dillman-Brinkerhoff
September 9, 2010
My Dear Krista, I can not even express in words the sorrow that I feel for the loss of your sweet Mother. As I remember the last about 20 years. so many thoughts flood through my mind during the time she taught you and Katie together and then a few years later teaching Drew. I grew to love her so much as a great and loving teacher of my children then as a very special friend. I hope that all the memories of her life with you will see you through this difficult time. I know that our Heavenly Father has a plan for all of us and we WILL see her again.
It may be a while til I see your smile, Until then I will miss you my friend. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Michelle Stoker-Lewis
September 9, 2010
Krista, I am so incredibly sorry. Your mother still remains a very fond memory of my childhood. I loved her! She was an amazing example to me in so many ways. I wish you the best. I will be praying for you.
Vickie Craw
September 9, 2010
Dear Stoker family,
We were sorry to hear about Karleen's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with your wonderful family. How comforting it is to know that families are forever.
With Love and Sympathy,
Scott and Vickie Elder Craw
Julie Jensen
September 9, 2010
What a beautiful obituary. Yet I almost feel like it did not say enough about how many lives she truly touched. I feel blessed to have known her.
Karen Judd-Lee
September 9, 2010
When I think of Karleen my thoughts go back to when I was a young girl. She was the "fun" cousin. So full of life and humor. I loved visiting her and her family. Heaven has just gained another beautiful angel. My thoughts go out to family and friends at this time. Love, Karen(Judd)& Dave Lee and Family
Lucy Bevan
September 9, 2010
What can I say about such a special lady. She had a habit of making everyone feel as if they were the most important person around. I true friend right to the end. I am so grateful for the opportunity I had to spend Wed with her and watch her with her kindergarteners. What a special talent she had with those children. I will sorely miss her. I am so proud of her endurance and strength. She is such an example to me. I love you and miss you, but I know that you will be watching over all of those that you love. Good- bye for now, my special friend.
September 9, 2010
When we lived in Logan waiting for Bruce to return from Australia, it was like we had another daughter in our home. Karleen became very dear to us (and has remained so in our hearts). We didn't see her after she and Krista moved to Kaysville. We know how much she will be missed.
Florine & John Meeks
(Grandma & Grandpa)
Shelly Bytendorp
September 9, 2010
We are so sorry to hear of Karleen's passing. Twenty years ago we were neighbors of Karleen and Krista. They lived below us in an apartment on the island. We were so impressed by Karleen and her love for her daughter and her family. Krista, what a lucky girl you are to have such a wonderful mother. We are so sorry that her time here was so short. We are praying for you and your family at this difficult time. Respectfully, Reed and Shelly Bytendorp
Donna Jorgensen
September 9, 2010
I am so sorry for your loss. Karleen was my teacher in the USU child dev. lab. She was a marvelous teacher and such a kind person. My God bless and comfort you.
Donna Jorgensen, Richmond, Utah
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