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Granger High School

Jo Wilson Obituary

JoWilson Festivarian Jo has danced on to another place March 22, 2003 after living with ovarian cancer for almost two years. Karen Jo Goodfader Wilson was born Sept 6, 1953 in Auburn, NY. Grew up in Honolulu, HI, 1956-1967, then lived in Rosemont, PA and Oak Harbor, WA before settling in Salt Lake City. Jan 1970. Graduated from Granger High School, June 1971. Married Lane W. Wilson in Elko, NV Dec 1972; later separated. Worked at JC Penney at Valley Fair Mall 1973-1976. Worked at home as a full-time mother, birthing and nursing three beautiful baby girls, Lindsie Louise, Brooke Anne and Katherine (Katie) Jo. During that special seasoning of mothering, Jo served as a La Leche Leader, offering encouragement and support to other breast-feeding women and then worked as coordinator of Leader Applicants with women applying for leadership. In 1985, Jo began a long and satisfying partnership with her great friend, Debbie Spivey, owning and operating Lab Courier Service. They transported laboratory specimens of all kinds to and from clinics and hospitals throughout the Salt Lake Valley. In addition, 1985-1990, Jo worked as a phlebotomist at Cottonwood Hospital and performed blood draws on homebound patients. In 1995, Jo went to work for Allstate Insurance Company, West Jordan, doing the work of three men and countless policyholders until 1998. At that time she went to work for the Episcopal Diocese of Utah with some of the warmest, most congenial and caring people in the city, state and universe. Jo served as a volunteer music programmer at KRCL 90.9 FM from 1989, hosting Thursday Breakfast Jam, 1990-1994, and then Saturday BJ from its inception in the spring of 1995. Jo cherished the opportunity to be involved in this vital community asset and felt the associations that resulted from this endeavor considerably broadened her horizons. Music was important to Jo. Though she didn't play an instrument she did play O.P.'s (other peoples) and laughed and cried and danced and played to music throughout her life. In the words of Shawn Colvin, "…if there were no music, I could not get through." Jo's loves included her absolutely wonderful, fabulous, terrific, amazing, awesome daughters, Lindsie, Brooke, Katie; her greatest legacy, granddaughter, Maia Jo Walker; longtime husband, friend, and then relative, Lane; her mountains, the inspiring Wasatch, Onion Creek, and all Red Rock country, including Kodachrome, with Brigham's Schlong; The Inter-mountain Acoustic Music Association's intimate concerts and Folk and Bluegrass Festival; Monday night blues at the Dead Goat Saloon; the Folks Fest in Lyons, CO; Red Butte Gardens Concerts; concerts at the old Terrace Ballroom; concerts at the Zephyr Club; musicians too numerous to list. She loved cackling in the kitchen with friends and family, cooking, traveling, camping, partying, dancing, campfires, won the title of Fire Woman of the "naughties," poking smot, dumpster diving for beer glasses at the end of the Folks Fest (only matched set of glasses she owned), sewing, crocheting, gardening, but most of all, she loved spending time with family and good friends - you know who you are. Jo said in parting, "During this difficult time, I've been awed and sustained and humbled by the love and support I've received from my dear ones. Thank you so much for being there for me." Survivors include husband, Lane; daughters, Lindsie (Mrs. Chad) Walker, Brook (Mrs. Brian) Larsen, Katie Jo Wilson; granddaughter, Maia Jo; father, Alan L. Goodfader; brother, Paul Goodfader; stepfather, Ronald K. Bromley; and sisters, Tanya (Jeff) Miller, Andra Bromley. Preceded in death by paternal and maternal grandparents; brother, Dane Charles Bromley Goodfader; and mother, Anne S. Bromley. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to KRCL, Cancer Wellness House, La Leche League International, The Jubilee Center or your favorite charity. The family would like to send our deep, heartfelt thanks and deepest gratitude to Heritage Hospice, especially Jeannie and Shar. We would also like to thank the Episcopal Diocese for their unfailing support and assistance. The celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

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

Published by Deseret News from Mar. 23 to Mar. 24, 2003.

Memories and Condolences
for Jo Wilson

Sponsored by Paul H. Goodfader.

37 Entries

Bobbi Fouts

April 23, 2003

Jo - you were the best of the best. Few people walk upon this earth and touch so many so deeply. You taught us all the true meaning of unconditional love. Even though you are no longer with us physically, you are with us every day, in the music you loved so much, in the beautiful faces and spirits of your amazing daughters, in the laughter of your grandchild. The world is a better place for you, and how lucky for all of us that you passed on your wonderful legacy! Dance on, Beautiful Spirit. Love you so much worse - Bobbi

Heather Baker

April 1, 2003

To Jo's Family and Friends,

We would like to express our deepest heart felt sympathy and sorrow for the loss of Jo. She gathered friends wherever she went because she had the room in her heart and the insight to learn from the diversity.

Jo was a mover and a shaker in our minds atleast on Saturday mornings, she knew her A-Z's even if you asked for Yeti from Ohio... some things just didn't float with Jo.

We look forward to spending time with the friends that we made through Jo, and the opportunity to live life Jo Wilson style; in a Festivarian minute!!

LOL,

H&R Baker

Diana Christine Mafi

April 1, 2003

To my dearest Jo;

It is so hard to believe that you are not here anymore. Twenty-eight years of talking on the telephone (hey, you told me you would have it connected up there, but I haven't received the bill). If we weren't on the phone, we were having our morning coffee or tea in the afternoon at your place or mine. These times are just way to hard to give up. We would talk about babies, birthing and breastfeeding. We also would talk about relationships (something you did extremely well! I have never met another person like you, who has had so many intense relationships. So many are your best friends. These friends as well as your family are your legacy. I taught you to crochet, you taught me so much about life. I crocheted you a prayer shawl and have started a "prayer shawl ministry" in your memory. I love you and yours and hope there is some way that I can help any or all of them. If there are any of Jo's family or friends who would like to learn to crochet or already know how and would like to join in a "prayer shawl ministry", please give me a call. Coffee or tea will be served.

May G-d bless and keep every on of you.

In H-s love always;

Diana Mafi 571-3941

Deborah Levine

March 31, 2003

Jo, my dear heart, You honored me with your friendship,the warmth of which sustains me. There is a moment in time,which will always exist,where we are dancing together.I love you--Deborah

Candee Guymon

March 31, 2003

With much gratitude for Jo's skill in the nursing field and even more skilled in friendship. Please accept our deepest sympathy to all those who loved her. She stands tall for my sister, who loved her so much. Candee Guymon - Kelly Oakden's sister.

Cousin-Marvin Rubin

March 29, 2003

Jo had a fuller life than most who live to be 100, and has left us, and the rest of the world, with so many blessings -- including her three magnificent daughters.

marian nash

March 28, 2003

My Jo! A beautiful woman.

If I wondered how to love children--I'd look toward Jo; how to love my friends--looked toward Jo; how to love my life--Jo.

Of course, about 120 more years of looking toward Jo would have been almost, maybe, enough, but I had at least 120 seconds, which meant my life was changed beautifully forever.

Peace to Jo's family, that, fortunately, branches far and wide. Marian

Jerry Schmidt

March 28, 2003

Well Jo, your physical presence with us has come to an all-too-early end, leaving many with tears that no matter how hard we try, seem to show up when we think of you in these first days after your leaving. Then we remember that's not what you'd want. Though you'd comfort us in our grief, you'd be reminding us to remember the good times and celebrate the great memories. And get on with creating more of them! Well, we'll get there, just give us some time. The heartfelt words and feelings from those who knew you show it's going to take some adjusting. They also show your spirit will continue to shine and remains strong in so many hearts.

In his book "The Prophet", Kahlil Gibran writes about freedom saying " You shall free indeed when your days are not without a care nor your nights without a want and a grief, but rather when these things girdle your life and yet you rise above them naked and unbound." That's what I think of when I think of your struggle the last couple of years. You taught us about dignity, courage, and strength. You used to tell me I was a mentor for you with regard to radio. Thanks for the payback. You became my teacher about something so much more important and far more difficult.

Thankfully, we were a part of a life well-lived, and we can be grateful for that. You connected with a ton of folks, shared a lot of good times, and made a difference in people's lives. That, and your family, is an incredible legacy, and though we'll regret your physical absence, we know you'll enjoy along with us watching their lives bloom from the garden you tended. And you left with the knowledge they'll be supported by your extended family.

Well Jo, time to get about the business of carrying on and creating the great times life has to offer, as you'd want us to do. But we're moving just a step or two slower around here these last few days. You have to understand, you were quite a gal. But it won't be too long til we're dancing to some great live music, imagining you right next to us, and smiling while basking in thoughts of you.

Dance on, sister, and thanks for the memory of your laughter.

Katie Wilson

March 28, 2003

I hardly know where to begin. My momma was the most amazing person I will ever know. She gave so much of herself to others and never asked for anything in return. I never had any doubt in my mind that she loved me. I think the weight of this enormous loss is now hitting me. I will never be the same without her in my life, I love her more than words can say. Not only did I lose my momma, I lost my best friend too.

When people tell me I remind them of her I am honored. I was truly blessed to have her in my life. I will miss our conversations, her laughter, her hugs, her unconditional love, everything about her.

I love her worse,

her baby,

Katie Wilson

Bill Allred

March 27, 2003

I did not have the pleasure of knowing Jo but I guess she knew me, in a way. I hate to lose listeners, especially this way. Couldn't you just have moved? Thanks to Jo's daughters who called this morning and let us know that their mother would have proud to have her obituary shared with the listeners of X-96.

Andra Bromley

March 27, 2003

Hey sis, we will all miss you so very much! We know that even though you are not physically here now, you will always be here in spirit watching over all of us and our good times and bad! Loved our talks even though they were short, but still good. Thanks for being such a great sister. LUV YA LOTS!! XXXXXOOOOOO=LOTS OF HUGS & KISSES!!

Angie

Teri Runyan

March 27, 2003

"Thank you, honey -- goodbye" were Jo's final words to me in the early morning the day she died. I was honored to have spent her last night with her, and to help her take her very last steps in this world.

Jo welcomed me into her life wholeheartedly, and taught me the true meaning of unconditional love. It is love with no judgement, no reservation, no boundaries. May we all aspire to embody this wonderful legacy she left us, and may we always fill our homes and hearts with laughter!

Thank you Lindsie, Thank you Brooke, Thank you Katie for openly sharing your mother with all of us. Please take comfort in the knowledge that we are ALL better humans for having known her.

I love you!

"Will the Circle Be Unbroken,

By and By, Lord, By and By...

There's a Better Home A-waiting

In the Sky, Lord, In the Sky"

TANYA MILLER

March 27, 2003

Jo and i, sisters by birth, friends of the heart. We will forever be entwined by the braid of bread and babies. Your legacy of breaking the cycle will live on in all of us. All my love, BE SEEIN YOU! Lotsa love; your tanibell

jennifer

March 26, 2003

Jo, my music guru, or Jo-the-girl, as my family and some of our friends refer to her, is an extraordinary being.

She has, by example, taught us an extremely valuable life lesson. Her love, her verve, her empathy and especially in the last few months, her dignity, are among her countless qualities; and remembering them will enable our hearts to sing, after the grieving.

Her love and commitment to family, friends, life and music, along with her acceptance of (in spite of, or sometimes because of) our foibles will always be with us.

On numerous occasions she spoke of the strength, the joy and the comfort that all of our love, caring and good wishes gave her, and she wants us to remember that she'll still be around.

See how she is?

Kasidy Baker

March 26, 2003

Jo Mama!I am so blessed to have had you as a nother mother.You will continue to be a fabulous mother and friend to me through eternity. You helped me realize what a wonderful Goddess I am!!!! I love you worse. The Wilsons and Bakers will continue our nother family forever. Thank you for everything you have ever done for me and my family. I am so glad I could be there with you for your last moments and help you to the other side.

Patricia Haroldsen

March 25, 2003

I have heard so much about Jo and what a wonderful friend she has been to so many. My heart goes out to all those who will miss her.

Sincerely, Kelly Oakden's sister

Kelly Oney-Oakden

March 25, 2003

Jo,Your angelic works of wonder came to me before our actual meeting and then my earth angel Karen who watches me now,how wonderful I really must be to have you both,You have went to the real comfort inn and you taught me radiant smiles and unconditional love,your in my storage shelf of life which is my heart.Fly free touch us when we r in need,All is Well,You r the Gem.The rock we held,Goddess Angel Blessed Be.Love u love me,Kelly

Brooke Larsen

March 25, 2003

My mom was a one of a kind woman. Whomever she came in contact with wanted to be part of her life. When she got sick, all of her friends came through for her. I can only hope that I can continue her legacy of love and kindness. I know she's in a better place, and she's not suffering anymore. I loved cackling and cooking with her in the kitchen. She always told me that we worked well together in the kitchen. She taught me so much, and taught everyone she knew so much. She died with dignity, and that was what she wanted. Thank you to everyone that loved her and showed her that love. She'll teach all those in heaven a thing or two! Keep dancing mom, swing that butt! I love you and miss you more than I can say!

Lindsie Walker

March 25, 2003

I wish to thank all of our wonderful friends for all of your support during mom's illness. My mother believed in Karma and her kindness came back to her three fold!! Mom is dancing and sitting by heaven's version of Onion Creek. Thanks again all of you. Goddesses rule!!!

Larry Pattis

March 25, 2003

I want to thank Jo for being a true fan and supporter of good music, and also for putting herself in a position to share her enthusiasm via KRCL. Jo was always quick to invite touring and local musicians onto her show, and the community benefitted from this, and from many other things that she did behind the scenes.

As Deena says below, Jo will not be forgotten.

Jim & Joan Doherty

March 25, 2003

We are close friends of Grandpa Al. During a trip to our area Jo, Al and grandchildren spent some time our house at the Delaware beach. Her gracious note of thanks reflected her warm personality. When we met her and Al on their return to the US from their trip to France, our suspicion that she was indeed a lovely and caring person was completely true.

We will miss her.

Terry Catlin

March 25, 2003

Jo, it's been a great ride together since 1970! We've seen a lot of changes together, and in your moving on, you have taught all of us how to live. Thanks for your example. We love you -Terry Catlin

Karen Cottingham

March 25, 2003

Jo, What a blessing you have been in my life,awesome nother mother and beautiful,luscious,lava,lady. I will miss you more than words can say.You are in my heart forever.Remember, I love you worse!

Deena Brazy

March 25, 2003

I am a lucky gal to have had Jo as a fellow festivarian and music lover in my life. The music was the initial bond, but her spirit and friendship made it lasting. Her strength and positive attitude were a source of inspiration for me. Jo, you won't be forgotten.

Love, Deena

Tiffany Lomu

March 24, 2003

I was a childhood friend of Jo's little girls. I will always cherish the memories of the sweet dream goodnight kisses that I would get right along with her girls when I did sleepovers. She always had the comforting, motherly love. Now that I am a mother myself, Jo along with my own mother have been my breastfeeding inspirations and for that I am truly thankful. She touched my life and has a special place in my heart.

Love, Tiffany

Carla Eskelsen

March 24, 2003

Jo-Girl,

You always did have to know what was on the other side of the mountain... I'll miss our talks, your smile, your laughter and your unflinching 'tude. You made a difference in this world in so many ways, through music and through mothering. I know you'll scout around 'til you find the absolute best choir up there, so save us a place, ok? And don't forget to pass down a few notes until the rest of us get there. We'll listen for you. Love and river music, Çarla

Marisa Black & Kara Bracken

March 24, 2003

Although our association was brief, knowing Jo touched our lives in that way that only Jo could affect others. Her positivity, beaming light, and incredible love for her daughters and granddaughter were a blessing to behold. May Jo's family find comfort in their loss and come to celebrate her freedom and inevitable joy.

Otis Baker

March 24, 2003

Jo Mama,

Our family, our whole entire big family has been blessed by your presence in our world. Onion Creek, concerts, concerts, and concerts.... Although you're off dancing elsewhere now, your heart and soul stays with us every day. Keep on shinin!

Robin Davis

March 24, 2003

My Beloved Jo, thank you for sharing your precious life with me. You helped make me a better, more enlightened human being, to appreciate, cherish and celebrate every moment of every day. I love you and miss you deeply. Robin.

Tristin Tabish

March 24, 2003

Jo,

You are finally at peace, and so many people remaining have a new angel to watch over them. I will always remember your smile, your laugh, your boundless spirit, not to mention reconciling your dozens and dozens of $10 pledges to nearly every show on KRCL during 'thon! Your support of the people you loved will linger, as will the memories of you.

Tristin

Paul H. Goodfader

March 23, 2003

She was A GREAT Sister Of Mine.I will always love and miss here. I was her younger Brother Paul.

kathy hayden

March 23, 2003

my beautiful goddess sister....we shall never be apart!

Lori Rosendahl

March 23, 2003

Jo, you were dearly loved! You inspired me so much with your enthusiasm for living. I will always remember my Saturday mornings listening to your cheerful voice bringing such wonderful music to all of us listening to KRCL. Thank you so much for your years of volunteer service to KRCL and the IAMA. You will never be forgotten!

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