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Dov Siporin Obituary
Salt Lake City, UT-Dov Siporin was born on May 21st, 1974 in Oregon to loving parents, Ona and Steve. Dov was the oldest brother to Lev. He graduated from Logan High School and then the University of Utah. He worked happily at ARUP Laboratories for 16 years. He married his high school sweetheart, Tara, and had the two most wonderful children the world has ever seen, Matan and Siena.
In the winter of 2008, at 33 years old he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer and he began treatment at the Huntsman Cancer Hospital. Not one to take the indignities of treatment lying down, he started small (small for Dov anyway) by writing quotes of the day on his ass for the radiation techs and playing jokes on his doctors. Matters escalated and soon he was wearing costumes and bringing candy, cheerleaders, firefighters, news crews, strippers and on one memorable occasion, "Death", to chemo. He told stories, he gave speeches, and he talked new patients through their first brutal days. He wrote poetry to share his experiences and feelings with others, helping them to see what he saw in the world. He loved it; he loved life. He loved the patients, the nurses, the doctors, the staff, his friends (even the ones he had never met in person), his coworkers, and even strangers in elevators. He brought light, love, and laughter everywhere he went.
Dov passed away on March 26th. Though it seems impossible to all who knew him, there is a Dov shaped hole in the universe now. Please remember Dov by filling that space with as much love and kindness, laughter and gratitude as possible.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to either the Huntsman Cancer Hospital or the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundations, both organizations near and dear to his heart.
There will be a memorial run for Dov on Thursday, May 7th, 2015. Information will be available at www.runfordov.com later this week.
Arrangements entrusted to Starks Funeral Parlor. Online condolences may be offered at www.Starksfuneral.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Dov Siporin
Jay
July 5, 2025
Found your comment on Reddit. You are still inspiring 10 years later man. Rest easy.
David
July 11, 2024
Like many before myself - it was a simple reddit comment. One comment stuck out at me out of literally hundreds of others, on none other than a reddit post I had simply stumbled across in an attempt to come to terms with my own failing health. That comment, the same one which began with "I don't know if anyone will read this", led me down a long and beautiful road filled with laughter, tears, and an immeasurable gratitude for life. To his loved ones - I hope you find solace in knowing the strength he gave to countless strangers around the world, like me.
JULY 2024.
Julia
April 30, 2024
It's now 2024 and Dov is still making a positive impact on the world. I, too, found him through Reddit. I'm sorry that he's gone, and he didn't get to enjoy more of this side of the veil. If I'm sentient on the other side of the veil, I hope I get to meet him; he is rad.
May 25, 2020
Dov is a great guy. Always will be. I worked with him for several years.
I say "is" not "was".
Dov, Tara, Levi and Hilary are truly wonderful people.
The have a great sense of humor.
G R
May 13, 2020
I too stumbled upon your reddit posts while going through a rough time in my life. Your positivity, humor, and humility have given me hope in a world gone mad. Your YouTube videos also put a smile on my face. You may be gone physically from this life but it's obvious you've left an ever lasting legacy for all those who knew you and even for a complete stranger like me. Thank you for being an inspiration sir!
N M
March 1, 2020
Dov still inspires my life.
Kevin B
February 13, 2020
I just randomly came across your posts on your Reddit as I was feeling down on life. You inspired the heck out of me this morning nearly 5 years later. Thanks friend and God Bless You sir !
Michelle
December 16, 2019
Here it is, less than a month from 2020...and I just found his posts. What an inspiration.
Nick Goss
April 23, 2019
God bless you and all the positivity you have shared, even under the harshest circumstances, and pain you went through, you made it apparent that you were a genuine, selfless, caring person. You've touched many lives, even those of people who have never met you or even spoke to you, like myself. God bless you, and your family and all those who you've helped see a positive perspective in life
May your soul dance in the limitless light, my friend
Cara Forsythe
February 10, 2019
Dov was already a bit of a celebrity when I first encountered him at ARUP. I remember a Christmas Eve that I worked, it was one of the last times he came in. I worked for Exception Handling and he expressed to me how much the patient matters and personally thanked me for my work.
I carried that inspiration with me and did my best to pass it on to other employees.
And then, quite suddenly, in 2016, I was facing my own serious illness. As I continue to combat this illness, I often think of Dov.
S M
February 2, 2019
It's 2019 and Dov's legacy is still inspiring people to love life and be thankful. I was having suicidal thoughts until I came across some of his posts, where he reminded people that life is a rare and precious gift to be treasured. Thank you, Dov. Safe travels.
Carrie
January 18, 2018
For what it's worth, it's 2018 and Dov is still inspiring random people on the internet. Much love!
Sue Wright
May 1, 2017
So sorry for the loss of your be love inspirational family member
Al Cillamo
May 10, 2015
I've never met Dov. Heck, I live on the other side of the world. I only really knew about him and his story thanks to a website he had a profile on, Reddit. From what little I've seen, he was an amazing man. I've seen some pictures he posted of him having fun in the hospital, literally laughing in the face of cancer. He wrote some amazing poetry, too.
People like him are hard to come by.
I know it doesn't mean much coming from an anonymous person on the Internet who's never even met him and - to be absolutely honest - will never fully understand the unimaginable pain his family will always feel after losing such an important and benevolent person, but nevertheless I am truly sorry for the loss Dov's family and friends had to substain.
I wish them all the best, brightest future imaginable.
As for Dov... you put up a great fight. Even though you may not be here anymore, I know I'll always keep on saying "screw cancer".
Angela Goodrich
April 17, 2015
I only met Dov a few times, but will never forget how he welcomed me to my first chemo. He could just tell by looking at me that it was my first round...and he encouraged me. He was a lovely person. My deepest condolences to your family...we are praying for you!
April 10, 2015
To the entire Siporin family my heart felt condolences
Carol Sassoon Greenspan
Kim Evenson
April 4, 2015
I feel like I got a chance to know Dov and thank you so much for sharing him with us. His ability to laugh and roar in the face of cancer and destroy all the sterility and loss of humanity that surrounds it was amazing. We are holding you all in our hearts.
Steve Vezina
April 3, 2015
To all of Dov's family,
There is a monstrous hole in our hearts here in Montana. Dov was such an inspiration to me from my first day of chemo to his last day on Earth. My wife and I are very thankful for the opportunity to meet and get to know him and the family he loved so deeply. Please remember that you are welcome to stay with us on your way to anywhere.
Bless you all.
Steve and Pattie Vezina and Family
stacy green
April 3, 2015
Such an incredible man and inspiration.
Rest in peace Dov.
michelle plakas-kaiser
April 3, 2015
rip
Jackie McCowen-Rose
April 2, 2015
From an old ARUP'er -- you were an inspiration! Bless you and safe travels,Dov!
Leslie Jacketta
April 1, 2015
My husband and I were at the Huntsman today,he has stage 4 prostate and have been going there for a year now. I always wear a "special" shirt with some message more for myself than anything else and today in the elevator on the way to radiology an employee looked at my shirt and said" That is so Dov" Wasn't exactly sure what she meant, thinking I was not up on the latest slang, then reading the newspaper while waiting for my husband I saw the article on "Dov" Ahhhhh what a nice compliment I recieved. I had seen him on the news several times though out his ordeal but shame on me...did not remember his name. Now I will never forget it. He certainly left the right mark while here. May seem odd to say at this time but..How blessed his family truly truly is
Mia
April 1, 2015
Although we never met you touched my heart with your words and kind actions. Finally free from pain and illness you will always be in my heart. Sending prayers and love to the family, may they find happiness and peace.
Sheila M
March 31, 2015
Siporin family, so sorry for your loss. It's a beautiful thing when one can think of others before themselves, even during a difficult time. Obviously Dov was able to see that "There is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving." Acts 20:35 May we all follow his example.
JoAnn Praught
March 31, 2015
March 31, 2015
My condolences to the family.
Our Father in the heavens, let your name be sanctified. Let your kingdom come. Let your will take place, as in heaven, also on earth. Matt 6:9,10
Paula O'Driscoll
March 31, 2015
My truly sincere and heartfelt condolences at the loss of Mr. Dov Siporin. He was an awesome gift to humanity and a very bright light during a dark time while I was going through infusion between summer of 2013 and continuing through the fall of 2014. I will never forget when he visited Huntsman on Valentine's Day last year in his so-Dov costume, sat with me, sang me an energetic go-fight song, and ended with a huge smile, an even more awesome smile in his eyes, and the best handshake I have had in my life, outside of my own father. He was an angel in life and he was and continues to be a huge inspiration in my own continued recovery and I wish your family peace, as I hope he has now found.
J Davis
March 31, 2015
My condolences go out to the Siporin family on the loss of a great man. Dov was the type of person you couldn't help feeling great around. He will be missed greatly.
Susan Carkin
March 31, 2015
Ona and Steve, and all Dov's family, you have my heartfelt condolences. Deepest sympathy on the loss of a remarkable joy-bringer.
Susan Carkin
March 30, 2015
"I will always cherish Dov for endearing life to its fullest, his ability to laugh and inspire others, he will truly be missed. My thoughts and condolences to you and your family. G. Noda
jennifer trujillo
March 30, 2015
Dov thank for inspiring my daughter crystal and us as family I remember when we first found out she had stage four colon cancer at age 27 and that cancer would eventually take her you made time to call her not knowing her but to comfort her, letting her know you would be there for her you really are an angel your an amazing soul rest in peace our thoughts and prayers will always be with you and your family **Sincerely The Trujillo family
Mrs. K. Jackson
March 30, 2015
My condolences to the family in your loss. May our God of peace give you comfort during this time as we await his appointed time to restore our loved ones to a Paradise earth in which there will be no crime, violence, no sicknesses of any kind including cancer, aging, or death. This statement seems like a dream, but our God, who cannot lie, promises to do just as his Word says.
TH
March 30, 2015
How difficult it is to lose someone who is so dearly loved and needed. Dov dedicated himself to family, and so many others. May you draw comfort and strength each day through prayer and God's promises. (Jeremiah 29 : 11-13)
Alexa West
March 30, 2015
What a beautiful life, dear Ona, Steve, and Family, Dov gave to the family of man. Like a seed which knows the gathering toward the light, he knew when to grow, how to blossom, how to shed his fragrance on those around him. Please know that we grieve with you and hold you all in the light that is eternal.
D Tyler
March 30, 2015
I wish to extend my deep sincere condolences to the SIPORIN family. I too have lost a sister to colon cancer and a sister to breast cancer, and I can tell you it is very painful, and yes I miss them very much. Both of them remind me of MR. SIPORIN they were full of mischief, positive and happy. I found relief by knowing I have a chance to see them again in the resurrection of the righteous and the ,unrighteous. Acts24:15 this scriptural thought has helped me so very much. hope it will give your family hope, and strength.
Judie
March 30, 2015
How unfortunate that I have not of Dov Siporin before today... What an extraordinary person... May his memory be a blessing. Thanks to his family for sharing him with so many.
S B
March 30, 2015
I had the pleasure of working with Dov at ARUP. I will never forget his zest for life and love of laughter, bringing that with him wherever he went. He was a great person and unforgettable! May Tara and his beautiful children feel peace and comfort at this difficult time. CFD!
Sheryl Gillilan
March 30, 2015
I was honored to meet Dov at Art Access when we opened the Healing Courageously exhibit. He wasn't sure he would be able to attend the opening, but he did, and he was delightful. I'm sorry I didn't know him better, but he certainly left a lasting impression on me.
S. Nelson
March 30, 2015
What a beautiful tribute to your dear loved one! He sounds like a remarkable man and I would have loved to have known him! May he be a shining example to all he left behind.
Brunella Dickens
March 30, 2015
My most sincere condolences for the Siporin family. May God fill your heart with peace and serenity. May all the good memories of Dove bright your life everyday.
Brunella C. Dickens
R. Pettigrew
March 30, 2015
May the God of peace, hope and comfort be in your thoughts as you keep the memories of Dov alive. And know God will remove all pain, suffering and death.
March 30, 2015
May the God of all comfort strengthen the family during this time of sorrow, Those who die God keep in his memory because they are precious in his eyes (Psalms 116:15)
Shannon hadley
March 30, 2015
I never had the pleasure of meeting Dov Siporin but what a HERO....
Denisha
March 30, 2015
My sincere condolences goes out for your precious loss. I can't even imagine the thoughts and feelings running through you right now . Pain , and sorrow can be unbearable at times like this. May God's Word give you the comfort and strength you need in your time of grief . Revelation 21:4
Wylene
March 30, 2015
To the Family of Mr.Dov Siporin.....
My heart goes out to your family at this time,but may the God of all comfort be with your family in your time of sorrow.(2 Corinthians 1;3,4).......
timothy peacock
March 30, 2015
Wow!!! What an amazing person!!! A man who not only accepted his possible outcome but also embraced it with not only courage but an amazing sense of humor as well!!! God bless his loved ones. Everyone should be more Dov like!!!
Timothy
Ashley Johnson
March 29, 2015
Dov's life stands as a testament to the man that he was, and nothing that I can say about him could ever improve upon that. For those who have not known him, you need only to know of the love for him held by his children, his wife, and his family and friends to know the main that he was. His legacy is kindness and love. Though Dov does not remain here with us, his place in our hearts remains with us always.
Kris Anders
March 29, 2015
Dov was indeed special and inspirational to so many here on earth. To Tara,Matan, and Siena, and all of Dov's loving Family, he is watching over you now and always. It was such a pleasure to be around Dov. He was a ray of sunshine and a bright smile through all of his pain. May you take comfort in knowing he brought happiness and joy to so many. God Bless you and keep you. My sincere condolences. He will be missed greatly by all including this colleague from ARUP
March 29, 2015
An amazing hope for the future 1 Corinthians 15:26.
Marie Dickerson
March 29, 2015
I never met Dov but wish I had. He sounds like an amazing person who gave so much in his short life. I am sorry for your loss.
Maureen
March 29, 2015
I never met you but reading about the team tumor and the grim reaper has me crying and laughing at the same time, you truly are a hero! I know that you are pain free in heaven making everyone laugh up there, RIP.
A H
March 29, 2015
I never met Dov but followed his story from afar because he meant a lot to a cancer survivor close to me. You don't have him any more, but you also don't have him any less, and may that bring you comfort.
lisa kirk
March 29, 2015
You are true love, and love never dies.
D.R.O.
March 29, 2015
You said some amazing words that only you could come up with and it showed in a millions rays of a star. Thank you for being you Dov.
I hope your family and your close friends get a lot of love and support during this time of losing someone they love.
Brenda
March 29, 2015
I have great love and respect for Dov mostly because he was thankful for the life he was given. Many of us can learn much from the way he lived life to the fullest. Jesus must have had Dov in mind when he spoke the words at Luke 23:43: "You will be with me in Paradise." My heartfelt condolences to loved ones left behind!
Anne
March 29, 2015
Right now and for the past year, my husband and I have been dealing with his diagnosis of terminal colon cancer, so Dov's story really moved me. Such an inspiration Dov was! His loved ones will be first and foremost in my prayers tonight. Bless them all!
Lisa Alexander
March 29, 2015
I only met amazing Dov once. But he moved me and inspired me every day. Truly a real life HERO. So very sorry for your great loss.
E R
March 29, 2015
Please accept my condolences,sorry for your loss of love one. Acts 20:35 say,"There is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving",this is what Mr.Siporin did. He focus his life on others,not self. Many happy memories.
Jack K
March 29, 2015
Dov, Thou art healed!
Elaine McCathern
March 29, 2015
This man was a gift to everyone, never met him but felt touched by the interview. My heart goes out to his Family. May his laugh and smile always shine.........
March 29, 2015
I met Dov many, many years ago when we worked together at Barnes and Noble and he kept us all laughing and loving coming to work. We lost touch as we moved forward in our lives but he never left my thoughts and when I stumbled upon his journey on a TV news segment, I was saddened but not at all surprised by the positive way he approached this. He had always lived life and loved freely. Godspeed my friend, to your friends and family I offer my prayers, hugs and a thank you for sharing Dov with all of us. I'll do my best to share your legacy by seizing the moment.
Kyle Johnson
March 29, 2015
You will be forever missed. But your legecy will live on. My condolences to the families of Dov
Connie Bybee
March 29, 2015
To Dov's Family; I read Dov's story last year in Utah Connection while waiting for my chemo treatment at HCI. His message lifted my spirits and I felt compelled to meet him. My wish came true a couple of weeks later as I was leaving the infusion room. I saw a man wearing a black shirt with white writing on it talking to some patients in the infusion room. I said. "Are you Dov?" He walked over to me, smiling, and said "Yes" and offered me some candy from the two bags that he was carrying. I asked him for his autograph and which day he did chemo, because I wanted to have my chemo on the same day as he did, because I knew there would be laughter where ever he was. He said "Come on Mondays, I'm here all day long." His passing is such a loss for me. No one can ever fill his shoes as the BEST HCI poster patient; but those of us that still go to Huntsman for treatment can honor him by smiling more, laughing louder, and giving generously to other patients. And maybe we can try a little harder to come up with some "jokes" or "pranks" to keep his spirit alive at Huntsman.
I know I will be bringing some goodies to the infusion room on Monday, "In Loving Memory of Dov".
Dorien Nielson
March 29, 2015
We feel blessed to have met Dov as my own husband battled and eventually lost his own fight with cancer. We certainly feel that Dov sized hole in the universe. So much love to the Siporin family from our hearts to yours. Dorien Nielson and children
Tammie Cederholm
March 29, 2015
Thank you for all you did for the cancer patients. My husband got to know DOV , while undergoing chemo, and he always brought such a light and love to those around him. My husband sadly passed in Feb, but was proud to have met Dov! God bless you and your family ! God truely takes the BEST !! Prayers and love !! Tammie Cederholm
Lesli Dewyze
March 29, 2015
I will always remember the way you loved life and focused on the positive, it changed my own view of the world. ARUP has lost a ray of sunshine and sparkle. Condolences to Tara and family. CFD!!
March 29, 2015
I didn't know Dov but reading your story was inspiring. May your family and friends continue to be comforted by the God of all comfort.
Joan Walton
March 29, 2015
Bless you !!!!!!!!
Cindy Holobusky
March 29, 2015
To the family of Dov Siporin,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time .I read Dov's story,I myself also know how it is to live with cancer,I'm a breast cancer survivor for almost ten years and it is a fight you want to win.My mother had cancer at the age of 45 and lived till 48 ,My mother I miss so much and wished there could of been more hope for her.I myself work with the Pa.Breast Cancer Coalition to order a Friends Like Me care package for other newly-diagnosed women.It is the little things you can do in life that when you have been given a test in life ,you can turn it in to a positive thing like Dov and myself have.When you are put to the test ,you somehow become this stronger person then you were.I believe people who have gone thur any type of cancer always come out a stronger person like Dov and myself.The fact he has touched so many lives is such a wonderful blessing.God bless and may Dov's memories get your family thur this hard time.
March 29, 2015
Sorry for your loss. May the "Peace of God"(Phillipians 4:6,7) be with you as you cope with such sorrow.
Allie Diamond
March 29, 2015
It was only recently that I became aware of Dov and his amazing life. I am so profoundly sorry for your loss.
QP
March 29, 2015
I am glad I got out of bed due to insomnia and saw Dov's obituary. I tend to waste so much precious time worrying about stuff I cannot change and things that don't matter. He put things into perspective for me. My sincere condolences to his family and pray that God gives them the strength to endure.
Fred H
March 29, 2015
May God Bless you and your Family. RIP
Lesley Byington
March 28, 2015
Dear Tara,
I know it has been awhile since we connected at ARUP, but I have connected with Dov at Huntsman in the past few months. He sure was a bright shinning star. I love the photos of you and him with your children, you can see the love you guys hold for each other. That is what he has left not only you but everyone he knew. May you find peace and always feel his love.
Arup Family
March 28, 2015
Your spirit and life will always be remembered.Thank you Dov!!
Lisa Gabbert
March 28, 2015
Dov was simply a stellar human being. My heart goes out to his family.
Pam Stone
March 28, 2015
What an amazing man and precious soul. My most sincere sympathy to all who knew and loved Dov.
Laura Pinelli
March 28, 2015
What a legacy. If each of us took only one of his messages about living life, how much better we and the world would be. My sympathy to all of his family and friends.
Hedy Bauman
March 28, 2015
Condolences to the family on the loss of such a brave spirit.
Robert Buzza
March 28, 2015
Its not how you die that matters its how you lived and treated others this man gives the true meaning of inner strength and true inner love for others.
Rev. 21:3-4
March 28, 2015
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Melissa Conger
March 28, 2015
May God bless your family and friends.
Jane Dowling
March 28, 2015
God bless you and your loved ones ~ Rest in peace.
Scott Chamberland
March 28, 2015
Please accept my Deepest Sympathies
Kirk Fox
March 28, 2015
Working here at Legacy I was lucky enough to help spread Dov's inspiring story and amazing outlook in spite of his diagnosis. Dov left behind so much for his family and the rest of the world. Quite a man and legacy.
March 28, 2015
Dear Tara and Family,
Dov taught us volumes as we watched, chatted and listened to his own son telling of the visits to Hunstman Cancer Center. He has left a great legacy for us all to learn from. We are sure he enjoyed the Fireworks last night.
Love, Lynda and Brent Johnson {Lisa's parents}
MOMMA WRIGHT
March 28, 2015
WHAT LOVELY STORY. GOD USED HIM!!! rip dOV I WISH I KNEW YOU PERSONALLY
Dawn K.
March 28, 2015
I am also facing stage four cancer, and I'm so sorry for your lose. I'm glad I had the chance to read about him. He definitely uplifted my spirit today. God bless all you, and may He give you peace and comfort.
Sam
March 28, 2015
May good memories provide solace for everyone that was touched by Mr. Siporin during this challenging time and may God provide you with the assurance that you will see your loved one again. (John 17:3)
Victor Maritsas
March 28, 2015
Thanks for your unconditional friendship Dov. I will cherish our talks, runs, and shared beers forever. My deepest condolences to family and friends.
March 28, 2015
My condolences to the family. May your warm memories comfort you during this difficult time.
A flower....a symbol of hope!
Sandy Shuster
March 28, 2015
Dov,
Your courage and foresight is inspiring to all! R.I.P.
Harry Simpson
March 28, 2015
In a place where there are only happy tears now.
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
TinaMarie Palmer
March 28, 2015
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. My deepest sympathy for your loss.
Kathy
March 28, 2015
I read Dov's life page and just had to extend my condolences. Our own dear son passed away recently and Dov's spirit reminded us so much of his. Words aren't enough to express but prayers do help, Be assured of mine, for you, this evening. Friends come to our aid at times like this but one in particular shared this encouraging verse found at John 5:28. I hope it helps ease your sorrow.
James Willner
March 28, 2015
May the eternal light shine upon him.....
Maureen Duffy-Boose
March 28, 2015
How much richer and more loving is my life since I met Dov three years ago at Huntsman--I know he is making the angels laugh and looking down on us all with love and compassion. May he rest in peace and without pain, and may all of us live lives that would make him glad.
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