Beth Laxman Johansen

Beth Laxman Johansen  Beth Johansen slipped from this life at her home in Sandy, Utah on Thurs., Nov. 14, 2002.  She was born the second of sixchildren on Feb. 4, 1913 at home in Salt Lake City, Utah to John and Helen Laxman. Her family loved to be together, particularly in the outdoors and had many wonderful experiences together. She had a strong love for her brothers and sisters and they loved her. She was always active in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, had a very strong testimony and served as a missionary in the Eastern States Mission. She held many leadership positions in the church, influencing and blessing the lives of many people. She married Auer C. Johansen on March 6, 1940 in the Salt Lake Temple and they shared many wonderful years together. Auer preceded her in death in 1988. Beth always loved children and they loved her. Nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors had many happy hours with her, enjoying the gummy worms, cookies and love ever present in her home. It was a privilege to sit at her table and enjoy the many specialties prepared by her loving hands. While she did not have children of her own, she opened her heart wide and lovingly mothered all who were fortunate enough to be part of her life.  Beth and Auer pioneered the Willow Creek area, building their own home and developing their small mink ranching business into an industry leading position. They worked side-by-side and played, laughed and cried together. The year they sold their mink ranch, their pelts topped the sale at the Seattle Fur Exchange. The sale was stopped with buyers and fur-breeders alike giving them a standing ovation. Many buyers would compete for the Johansen pelts (and a loaf of her homemade nut bread).  The sale of their mink ranch property led to the development of a neighborhood of kind loving people who blessed Beth's life for many years. Her neighbors became part of her extended family - many referred to her as "grandma". Their kindnesses will be long remembered. Survived by her sister Mable Wittwer (Karl), her brother John Laxman (Jean), many wonderful in-laws, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. The family expresses their appreciation to her doctors, nurses, and caregivers for their compassionate service to Beth. Funeral services will be held Monday, November 18, 2002 at 12 Noon at the Willow Creek 7th Ward, 2215 E. Creek Road (8200 So.). A viewing will be held Sunday, November 17, 2002 from 6 - 8 p.m. at the Larkin Sunset Gardens Mortuary, 1950 E. 10600 So. and one hour prior to services at the Ward. Interment to follow at Larkin Sunset Gardens Cemetery.