Ethel Stan

Our beloved mom, grandma, and friend, Ethel Brown Stan, passed away in her home on Thanksgiving morning, November 28, 2024, at the age of 99. She was truly a blessing to all of us.
Ethel was born on May 31, 1925, to Ruel Elgen Brown and Effie Vilate Averett on a small farm in Lovell, Wyoming. She was the oldest of six children, with three brothers-Norman, Ruel Jr., and Ed-and two sisters, Lorene and Elva. From a young age, Ethel thrived in farm life, embracing her tomboy spirit and eagerly assisting her father with all sorts of work. She was known as the best beet thinner around. Ethel loved sharing the story of how she would race home every day after school to flip the light switch, eager to see if the family's home had electricity yet. She especially enjoyed recounting the day when the lights finally came on.
After completing business school in Salt Lake City, Ethel moved to California with her sisters, where she met the love of her life, Nicholas Stan. They were married on August 21, 1949, in Reno, Nevada, and later sealed for time and all eternity in the Oakland Temple. Their journey together began in Pittsburg, California, and just two years later, they settled in Concord, California, where they spent the next 34 years raising their two daughters, Debra Jeanne and Cheryl Lynne. Many fond memories were made in that beautiful, meticulously cared-for home. Nick had a green thumb making their yard the envy of the neighborhood.
Ethel and Nick shared a love for travel and adventure, and their summer camping trips became treasured family traditions. Ethel also had an extraordinary gift for sewing, which she passed down to her daughters and granddaughters. Debbie and Cherie spent countless hours by her side, learning to sew, quilt, crochet, knit, cross-stitch-anything that involved a needle in hand.
In 1985, after retirement, Nick and Ethel left their long-time home and moved to Lake of the Pines in Auburn, California, and then in 1990, they relocated to Orem, Utah, to be closer to family and their beloved grandchildren. Their home was always a haven, filled with treats and an open door for the grandchildren to come visit. Once in Utah, they served faithfully as baptism ordinance workers at the Mt. Timpanogos Temple, continuing their lifelong
commitment to faith and service. Ethel was proud of her pioneer ancestry and took great care in researching her heritage. Above all, she was a passionate mother and grandmother, devoted to her family. She loved Neil Diamond's music, and was always working on a puzzle to keep her mind sharp.
Ethel lovingly cared for her dear husband until his passing in 2009. She always spoke of Nick with deep affection and profound gratitude for his hard work and dedication to their family. After Nick's passing, Ethel remained fiercely independent and strong, never wanting to be a burden to anyone. It is truly remarkable that she continued to live on her own, in her home until the end. Humble by nature, she shied away from the spotlight, preferring to quietly cheer on the successes of her loved ones. Ethel was the epitome of grace and class, enduring the challenges of aging with unwavering gratitude. As the matriarch of our family, Ethel imparted wisdom, kindness, and love that created a peaceful and nurturing home for all who entered. We find peace in knowing that Nick, Debbie, and many other cherished family members were waiting on the other side of the veil to welcome Ethel into the next life.
Ethel is survived by her daughter, Cheryl Harris (Je ); 9 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and 7 great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother, Ed Brown, and son-in-law, Dan Bishop. Ethel was preceded in death by her husband, Nick Stan, and her daughter, Debra Bishop.
Private Services were held. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family here at www.walkersanderson.com.