Cancer takes another Mother and Teacher

I was blessed to have known Krista (my sisters friend) and her sweet Mom, Karleen, while growing up. She was like as second Mom to my sister. She fought breast cancer a few years back, then it returned to her brain a few months ago. Tuesday she was taken to heaven. Below is her obituary.

Just another example of what a terrible disease cancer is and how it affects us all.

Karleen Stoker-Meeks 1958 ~ 2010 Our beautiful Karleen, amazing mother of Krista Meeks, passed peacefully from mortality on September 7, 2010 at McKay-Dee Hospital in Ogden, Utah... Karleen was the essence of grace, walking valiantly in the ways of the Lord. Her shining example of charity, compassion and service has left a lasting impression on those who had the privilege of knowing her. Karleen's passion for life and love of family was contagious. She never missed an opportunity to spend time with family and friends. Always ready with a listening ear, she was the one we turned to share life's ups and downs. She loved being outdoors, soaking in the sun and being at one with nature. Her talents extended into music and when she sang, it was with the voice of an angel. All who know her know that she sincerely loves them and considers them dear friends... She earned a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from Utah State and a Masters degree in education. She never had to work a day in her life because her job as a teacher was a dream come true. She started out at the USU Child Development Lab, Head Start Program and private pre-school programs. For the last 20 years she has taught first grade and kindergarten students in Riverton, South Jordan and Kaysville public schools. In spite of her limitations, her ever present love for her students encouraged her to begin another year of teaching this fall. She is loved dearly by all her students over the years and their families whose lives she profoundly touched. Karleen and Krista have been more like sisters and best friends than mother and daughter since the beginning. Yet, in her beautiful way, she was the most incredible mother and example. Krista was her angel here on earth. Now Karleen can be hers. She has served faithfully in church assignments including Relief Society, Primary and Young Women. Karleen and her family have heartfelt gratitude for the love and service given by friends, neighbors, ward members and school associates both before and during her illness. This has been an example of true Christ-like love. She is survived and dearly loved by her daughter, Krista...

~ Karleens box ~