Renee Johanson Park

1930 ~ 2025

In Loving Memory

Renee Johanson Park, born September 7th 1930 in Salt Lake City, Utah passed away April 10th, 2025 in Murray Utah at the age of 94. After suffering a stroke in 2018, we were all blessed to enjoy this special time with her during the last few years of her life.

Born during the depression to Elizabeth Mary and Fredrick Gustav Johanson, Renee grew up alongside her 4 siblings in Salt Lake City, where she adhered to the motto of "waste not, want not" her entire life. She attended Roosevelt Elementary, Granite Junior, and graduated from Granite High School.

Renee met Roy "Bode" Park on a blind date. After falling in love, they were married on December 1st, 1941. Mom always said she wanted a dozen children and were blessed with eleven. She loved babies, and could hardly wait to see and hold her new grandbabies. She was fortunate to be a homemaker most of her life, where she excelled at canning, just about anything that grew. Including, but not limited to, tomatoes, mustard pickles, grape juice, peaches, pears, cherries, jellies and jams. As we got older, Mom would sack them up and give them to us for Christmas. Knowing it was made with love, we all considered this a special gift. Mom loved to work in her yard and in her garden. She took great pride in gardening and kept an immaculate yard. We all have found memories of her mowing the lawn and trimming it by hand for many years. She also loved to knit and crochet. One year she knit slippers for all of us kids, and vests for us girls. She crocheted a beautiful outfit, top and bottom of which we can all remember her wearing with pride.

Mom spent many years supporting Daddy's fishing and camping interests. Weekends were spent loading all of us up and visiting many of Utah's beautiful outdoor locations. A few of the favorites were the high Uintas, Smith and Morehouse, Rockport, and Flaming Gorge. Before they were able to get a camper, we slept in tents. While Daddy would catch us fish for supper, Mom would prepare the rest. Later on, Mom especially enjoyed the family get togethers over Memorial Day weekend in Fruitland. There were many fond memories made during these years.

Mom loved watching her boys and grandchildren in their sporting activities. She would often be keeping score at the Baseball games while Daddy was coaching. At all of these events, she was their loudest supporter. She also loved gathering for the parades, just like one of the kids she would unapologetically fight for the candy being thrown. One of Mom's favorite places to go was Spring Chicken Inn. We all have cherished memories of going there with Mom and Dad. She continued creating these outings after Daddy passed away.

Mom was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother and would do anything for her family. She will be greatly missed by many, and her example of hard work, love and loyalty will live on through all that knew her. Momma, you were the BEST! We love you so very much!

Renee is survived by her children, Patrick ( Margo), Pam (Lee), Mike (Sandy), Tim (Cherice), Tina (Kelly), Melodie (Steve), Kendall, and Cari. As well as 28 grandchildren, 43 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren. Sisters, Emme Lee, Mary Gallagher, and brother Mitch Johanson (Ileen).

Preceded in death by her husband Roy "Bode", her parents Mary and Fred Johanson, sister Larene Larson and sons, Kelvin, Tory, and Casey.

The family wishes to thank the numerous condolences expressed, especially by those who knew and loved our Mom, Grandmother, and Friend.

Viewings will be held on Thursday, April 17th from 6:30 - 8:00 pm and Friday, April 18th from 11:00 - 11:45 am at the Grant Ward building 619 West 5750 South, Murray, UT 84123-5717. Funeral Services for Renee beginning at 12:00 pm, at the Grant Ward chapel. Interment to follow services at Elysian Burial Gardens, 1075 East 4580 South, Salt Lake City 84117.