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Wendy Shurtliff Obituary

Wendy Dean Murdock Shurtliff 1956 ~ 2006 Our source of joy, Wendy, was abruptly taken from us Saturday morning, November 4th, 2006 at the vibrant age of 50, the result of a stroke. She was born February 2, 1956 in American Fork, Utah to Ramon Dayel and Kenna White Dean. She married David Shurtliff on August 21st, 1996 accompanied by seven beautiful children from a previous marriage. Later, they were joined by their baby Dane. Wendy, the children and David enjoyed 10 wonderful, but all-to-short years together as a family. She graduated from Davis High School in Kaysville where she was a studentbody officer, and attended BYU in Provo. She was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many positions. For a short time she was a receptionist at the Jordan River Temple, but will be best remembered as the ward organist for the past five years. Wendy was blessed with incredible gifts and talents. She is the composer, writer, performer and, with her children, one of the singers of "I've Got Joy" and most of the other Joy School songs. Wendy's music creations have touched literally tens of thousands. She created fabulous dance recital and ballet videos that are now cherished memories for the young dancers and their families. With seemingly no premonition of her life being cut short, she was passionate in documenting and preserving hundreds of hours of cherished and every-day family memories on video and photo. Our only regret ... she was on the wrong side of the camera. Wendy was beautiful in person and in spirit. Wendy and the family loved to go caroling during the Christmas season, calling on friends, neighbors and oft-times would just stop and knock where they saw a party going on at an unsuspecting but delighted stranger's house. Wendy dearly loved her family. Children will always remember the joy and influence of "gathering time" and the fun and excitement of "Wendigos". As great and far-reaching as her accomplishments were, she never came near to the end of what she called her "eternal list". Wendy, the void left in our lives is almost too much to bear, but we will carry on for you. Joining you again someday will be at the top of our (different kind of) "eternal list". We love you! She is survived by her husband David Vern Shurtliff; children, Melissa Murdock, Annie Murdock, Matthew Murdock, Kizzi Murdock, Christian Murdock, Dane Shurtliff all of Draper, UT; Scott (Liesl) Shurtliff, Chicago, IL; Megan (Matt) Halversen, Sandy, UT; Katie Murdock, Las Vegas, NV; grandchildren, Jessenia, Tyler, and Whitney; her mother, Kenna Dean, Farmington, UT; sisters, Melanie Dean, Salt Lake City, UT; Rebecca (Monte) Langford, Oregon City, OR; Michelle (John) Jackman, Salt Lake City, UT; Tami (Linn) Griffith, Centerville, UT; Heidi (Lamont) Wilcox, Kaysville, UT; Jana (Bruce) McVay, Harrison, AR; brother, Lon Dean, Seal Beach, CA. She was preceded in death by her father, Ramon and brother, Dayel. Funeral services will be held Friday, November 10, 2006, 12:00 noon at Larkin Sunset Gardens Mortuary, 1950 E. 10600 So., Sandy, UT. A Viewing will be held Thursday, November 9th from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at the mortuary. Interment will be at Larkin Sunset Gardens Cemetery. Please send thoughts, memories and condolences to [email protected].

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

Published by Deseret News from Nov. 8 to Nov. 9, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Wendy Shurtliff

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Tammy McMullin

November 17, 2006

I am so sorry to hear of Wendy's death. She was a beautiful lady who cultivated and shared her many talents. We lived in Draper a few years ago in the same ward as Wendy. I was always so impressed with how beautifully put together she was and how talented she was. I have been a joy school mom to three of my four boys who are now in middle school. Just before halloween we put the joy school CD in the CD player for our two year old to listen to. He loves the songs - especially the mean old witch one which we played repeatedly. We had been playing the joy school music for a couple of weeks over and over again when we heard of Wendy's passing. It was such a sad coincidence. She will live on in so many homes around the world because of the talents she gave so freely.

Susan Hilton Johnston

November 17, 2006

It was a great shock to hear of Wendy's passing. She has always been so alive and so young. May you be comforted at this time.

patricia weakland

November 15, 2006

We are very sorry for your lose. Wendy was a special friend to Jim and I. I will miss her dearly at the bowling center. She is a special angel now. God bless you all.

Jenny (Lewis)Higley

November 15, 2006

Melissa, Annie and Matt,
I am so sorry to hear about Wendy, she was such a great lady. Your
family was so much fun to be with when i was young. I can't tell you
how many times my brother, sister and i listened to your song tape.
Gunny Sack was our favorite! Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Brooke Healy

November 12, 2006

Dear Megan and Kizzy,
I am so sad for the loss of your beautiful mother. Wendy was such an incredible person and I feel so lucky to have met her and have her touch my life like she has done for so many. Your mom created beautiful videos for the students at my dance studio....they are priceless!

As I have read many of the entries in this guest book I have read so much about the joy school music that your mom a big part of. The funny thing is that my mom used a lot of that music as she tended children for 10 years. I know that it was a big part of those childrens lives each day as my mom used it day in and out! It is funny that I never knew that your mom and your family was such a bif part of that; since I met Wendy only five years ago.

You and your family members will be in our prayers daily. I loved your mother, she was beautiful in every way. I love you Kizzy and Megan!

G. Brian & Amanda Fisher

November 12, 2006

Dearest Wendy's Family,
We truly wish there was something we could say or do to ease your pain right now. Everytime we think of Wendy passing on, we want to cry too. But let the tears fall now, it will help you'all heal and bring back your joy. We've been there and know time will heal, although it may be so hard to believe that right now. The funeral was so so Beautiful and you were all so brave. The day will come that you will see and be with Wendy again and at that moment it will seem like it was only a very short time. Please remember you are always in our prayers, always in our hearts, and we will always be there for you all.
With Love,
The Fishers......
(Shauna, Gordon Brian, Stephanie, Monica, Natalie, Eric, Angela, Janice & the Late Gary V. & Lillian)

Bette Thatcher Hubrich

November 11, 2006

Dear Dean Family, It has been a lot of years since I have had contact with your beautiful family but all of my memories have smiles on them. I am so sorry for your deep sorrow and pray that you will feel our Lord's love and peace as you wait for the day when you will all again be together again. It is only about time, not loss.
While I was dating Dayel and going to school with Becky and Melanie I so loved to be in your home. It seemed to always be filled with love and joy.That same joy will be there when you are together again. With love and caring. Bette

Poncho Card

November 10, 2006

Wendy Im sorry your gone But Your in a better place and I cant waite to see you when I get there! Now our Father in Hevan Can sunggle you warm Now that your Home. from what I can remember You were and still are an amazing Beautiful Strong Women In my life and in others Thank you so much for what you have done for me and others you've touched many peoples lives with your kindness and words and music. I too remember the songs Ive got Joy, Gunny Sack, and Sungle me warm What an amazing song Sungle me warm reminds me of all the mothers who sunggles there Babys warm And Thats just what my Mother your aunt Bonnie did for me God Bless you and your Familey allways and your beautiful daughters May They learn from there Mother and Snuggle There Babys Warm

Thank You
With Love:
Jonathan A. Card
A.K.A
Poncho Card

Megan Lingard

November 10, 2006

Dear Melissa and Annie,
I often think of you and wonder how you are doing. I offer my condolences on the passing of your mother. If you get a chance, drop me a note. May God bless you two and your family.

all my love,
Megan Shaw Lingard (of the Fruit Heights years)

Tina Moore

November 10, 2006

Dear Dean Family,
My Prayers and love are with you. I met Wendy through her sister (and my good friend) Tami. Wendy's music and personality were uplifting and cheerful. She was and is a very good mother. She will live on in her children. Their accomplishments and influence are incredible which says a great deal for their mother Wendy. I am sure that she will continue to watch out for you, her family.
But we will miss you Wendy.
Love Tina Moore

Kayleen (Waite) Johnson

November 10, 2006

Dear Dean family,
Wendy and I were goods friends in High School, and we spent many hours laughing and having fun even after school. We were in the same ward in Fruit Heights, and I enjoyed it when I would go to her house, or she would come to mine, and just hang out.
Though we haven't seen each other for many years, she would always ask how I was, and keep us up to date on things with her and her family when ever she saw my mom. She always found the sunshine in things, even if the sky was pouring down rain. The memories we shared will always be close to my heart, and bring a smile to my face.
My prayers are with you, that God may lift your heavy hearts, and bring you peace and comfort.

Karen Zollinger Taylor

November 10, 2006

Wendy was as beautiful on the inside as she was on the outside. Like all the wonderful members of this family, she made this world a better place. I am so sorry for your loss.

Karen Zollinger

Tom and Marla Housholder

November 10, 2006

Dearest Melissa, Matthew, Annie, Megan, Katie, Kizzi, and Christian; We have been out of the country for several years, and were stunned to hear of your mother's passing this week. How well we remember the wonderful times our children shared as your neighbors in Fruit Heights. One of our fondest family memories is of the Murdock Children singing Christmas carols in our home. The beautiful music your family so lovingly created played such an important and dynamic role in our childrens' young and impressionable lives. Even today, we occasionally pull out the old "I've Got Joy" cassettes and remember the good times our two families shared together. May you be comforted during this difficult time with the sure knowledge of your mother's pride and happiness in the legacy that she left the world through her children and their talents that she so lovingly helped to develop. Our Kindest Regards, Tom, Marla, and all of the Housholder family

Emilee Hess-Baird

November 10, 2006

Melissa,
You may not remember me, but you and I were in the same ballet class for a couple of years with Clytie Adams. We danced together the year that your family sang the I've Got Joy soundtrack. Becoming a parent myself, I bought the music for my own kids to enjoy. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. It is hard for me to imagine losing a parent. I know that you are a very strong and close knit family and you will be given peace and comfort. I have thought of all of you often, as I have remembered back over the years. I remember you and Annie especially. Know that you are being thought of during your time of loss.

Emilee Hess Baird

Britt-Marie Johnson

November 9, 2006

11-9-2006
My dearest Melissa Annie Megan Matt Kizzi Katie and family!
I can't compriehand what has happend. I was on the way to the airport when Gary Halvarson called me and told me about your mother. I can't stop thinking about her all the waY to Malaysia I cant even be at her funeral I feel so bad I loved Wendy and we go back a long time and you children also. Remember Matt when I saw you and Wendy in your office and I was so happy to see you that I caalled you up a few days later and sang one of the songs from the I GOT JOY cd to you on the phone and you remembered me please save a program for me and I will call you when I get home after the 17
I LOVE ALL OF YOU SO MUCH AND I CANT BELIVE THE ABSENT I FEEL IN MY HEART. She is a pearl of great price.

Larry L. Shaw

November 9, 2006

Reading this obituary filled me with gratitude for the joy school music that has filled our home. Thank you for example

january roundy

November 9, 2006

Matt and Katie.... I am so sorry that this unexpected event has happened. I hope that you both keep those beautiful smiles on your faces. Matt you know you can call me anytime for anything and Katie my brother Justin in Vegas would do anything in the world for you... just let ys know how we can help.....
January Roundy

Shaylin Magnuson

November 9, 2006

Annie and Family:We are so sorry to hear of the loss of your mother. You guys are such a neat family. Hang in there. We love you and you will be in our prayers. Love Linda, Seth & Bre, Shantell & Bill, Shaylin & Kameron, and Synthia (Stoddard's)

Allison, Chirs, Kiki, Lexie Berrett

November 9, 2006

Annie and Family. I am so sorry to hear of you and your family's loss. You mother was such a remarkable woman and touched many lives. She was an inspiration to those around her. You are in my thoughts and prayers and I pray that you may be comforted and blessed in your time of sadness. We love you!

Jennifer Bishop

November 9, 2006

Melissa and Family,

My family is so sorry for your loss. I remember you caroling at our house during christmas and how beautiful your family was. I especially remember your moms kindness and unconditional support for her family and friends.

David I am sorry for your loss.

If any of your family needs help or someone to talk to we are here.

you are in our prayers.

November 9, 2006

I grew up with the I Got Joy tapes....thanks for the many memories I have with my fammily

Barbara Brown

November 9, 2006

Heidi and family,
I'm so sorry to hear you lost your dear sister. It's been a long time since I've seen you, probably at the airport last but my heart goes out to you and your family. I know what a sweet person you were in high school, and it sounds like your sister had the same sweet personality. Take Care.

Jon Schneider

November 9, 2006

Annie and Family. Words cannnot express our love and deep felt pain of the "graduating" of your mom. Only a hug and tears can do it. And the understanding of "I know how you feel". You are all in our prayers. Your mom is now celebrating life, as we should do the same. We know that this pain and deep hurt is temporary, and will heal with the atonement. We love you. Schneider Family

Karen (Thompson) Vaughn

November 9, 2006

Annie and family,
My deepest condolences to you and your family. Your mom was such a beautiful lady and she raised such kind, talented and beautiful children. May you be comforted and blessed in your time of sadness.

Krystal Bain

November 9, 2006

Matt and Family,
I want you to know how much I loved your beautiful mother and what an amazing example she was to me. I will forever be grateful to have had her wonderful inspiration in my life. She was truly a gift from God.

Jennifer Hepworth-Mansell

November 9, 2006

To my cousins,
I cannot imagine how grievous this must be for you. At times like these we realize how precious and fragile life really is. These past few years I have thought about all of you often. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of sorrow.

Karen (Andrus) Ballantyne

November 9, 2006

Dear Family of Wendy,
I was so sad to hear of her death. What a wonderful talented person Wendy was. One of the first songs she wrote along with Karen Brian was sung at my wards "New Beginnings" many years ago when I was the Laurel President. When I was involved with Joy School many years ago I was so thrilled when I played my first tape and heard Wendy's beautiful voice on it. My Grandchildren now love to sing along with the songs. Wendy's memory will be that of grace and beauty. May you find comfront in knowing her voice will still be heard, take the time to listen in those quiet moments, and you will know that she is always near.

Lily Bunker

November 9, 2006

Dear Dave and family, We remember Wendys great smile and wonderful nature, I was her visiting teacher in Draper a few years ago and she always left me wanting to do more and to be a better person. Your girls and my daughter Lark have spent many hours together and Wendy was a great influence in Larks life. Her musical abilities always filled our souls. May the plan of salvation fill the gap and time until you are together again. All my love, Lily Bunker and family

Robert & Dee Ann Hunt

November 9, 2006

Dear family,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. We will always remember the times we had as neighbors in West Point. We hope God will always be with you during this time in your life. KEEP SINGING!

Marlene Yates

November 9, 2006

David & Children:
My heart goes out to you during this time of grief. I was a schoolmate of Wendy's since 5th grade. She was the best of the best!

Anita

November 9, 2006

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2006

Edith and Matthew Smith

November 9, 2006

David and Family-
Our hearts go out to each of you.
With love-

Trish Jacobson (Lewis)

November 8, 2006

Dear Shurtliff/Murdock family- I was so saddened to hear the news of Wendy. What a beautiful talented lady! Our kids(and their kids) will forever be singing "Here Comes Gunny Bag" and "Choices". Wendy will be greatly missed, but she has left a wonderful legacy and a beautiful family to be very proud of. May you be comforted through this very difficult time.

Dennis & Teresa Sunday

November 8, 2006

Dave & Family,
We were so shocked to hear of your sadness. Please know we care and wish you all the best. God be with you.

Claire Floto (Billings)

November 8, 2006

I have such great memories of Wendy, as we attended high school together many years ago. I remember her love of music and excitement about life. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family.

Randy & Wanda Lewis

November 8, 2006

We will miss you Wendy, your happy smiling face was always a joy to see in the good old halls of Davis High School.. your talents and songs will carry on in our hearts.

Brandalynn Jackman

November 8, 2006

David & Kid o's,
I love you all so much! This hurts... I'm still in shock, like we all are. Wendy is so wonderful, and so badly missed!

Taylor Workman

November 8, 2006

To Kizzi and Family,
I wanted to let you know that you all have been in my thoughts and prayers. Words can't describe how sorry I am. You have an incredible family that welcomes everyone with open arms. I love you Kizz.
Love,
Taylor

Shari Auna

November 8, 2006

I will miss my beautiful cousin. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family
Me Ke Aloha,
Shari Card Auna

Allen Henricksen

November 8, 2006

David and family,
I add my sincere condolences for this great loss in your life. She was a truely wonderful person and will be missed. I wish you all the very best in overcoming this trail and continuing the legacy that she has started.

Angela Lavery

November 8, 2006

Our family has very fond memories of Wendy. When we heard the news tears came to our eyes. What a wonderful, sweet, loving, giving woman! Our prayers and thoughts are with you.

Kevyn VanLehn

November 8, 2006

Dear Chad & Katie, You both are in our thoughts and prayers down here in St. George. Katie, I just met you last month when my sweet Dad passed away. Little did we know your beloved mother would be passing away soon also. I know how you feel Katie. I know you don't know me very well yet, but you will. Your Mom is close by, I know it with all of my heart. Say hi to that darling nephew of mine. Luv, Aunt Kevyn Gunther VanLehn

Amanda Mendez

November 8, 2006

To Annie and her siblings,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time ... I wish I could be there to give you a hug. I know your positive outlook on life will get you through this difficult time.

John Freeman

November 8, 2006

David and Family:

My heart goes out to you. Wendy was an inspiration to those that had the priviledge of knowing her. She touch and blessed so many lives. Eternity is a wonderful thing when you know there is someone waiting.

Be well my friend.

John

Rick Priddis

November 8, 2006

The image keeps coming back to me of a somewhat wild and bubbly Wendy working for me while she was single. She was full of energy and had a "can do" attitude. No task seemed to be beyond her belief that "she could do it". Those are happy, fond memories. I will miss her. I send my thoughts and prayers to her family.

Lund Sparks

November 8, 2006

To the Dean Family,
Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you. You are wonderful people.

Steve and Karen

November 8, 2006

Tami and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Joe and Denise Avila

November 8, 2006

David,
We are so sorry for your loss. Wendy was such a wonderful person, when she laughed we all laughed. We enjoyed our time at bowling with you both. She will be deeply missed. Our prayers to you and the kids.

Floy Thompson

November 8, 2006

Matt,
I feel so bad for you, My family has fone through a lot of death and i really do know how empty you must feel. Call if you need me.

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