Joanne O. Kirk

Joanne Olson Kirk returned to the loving arms of her Heavenly Father on December 10, 2024. She was born on November 28, 1935, in Salt Lake City, Utah, as the youngest of eight children to Edla and Axel Olson. A devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Joanne had a strong testimony and a unwavering love for the gospel. From an early age, she was known for her spunky and independent spirit, often sharing cherished stories of her adventures as a young girl exploring the city. Her love of travel and curiosity about the world grew throughout her life, leaving a lasting impression on the many people she met. 

 On August 15, 1956, Joanne married her sweetheart, Jerry V. Kirk. Together they shared an inseparable sixty-eight wonderful years, and have an eternity more to follow. They eventually settled in Fremont, California, where they resided for fifty years, lovingly raising their four daughters and cherishing the memory of their infant baby boy, who returned to heaven far too soon. Joanne lives on through her four vivacious, witty, intelligent, and caring daughters, each a testament to her love and legacy.

 Joanne and Jerry dedicated seven years of service as missionaries for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Nigeria, Africa, serving in the Lagos Nigeria Mission from 1996 to 1997, the Port Harcourt Nigeria Mission from 1998 to 2001, and the Aba Nigeria Mission from 2005 to 2007. Joanne played a vital role alongside her husband during his time as the temple president, serving faithfully as the matron for the Aba Nigeria Temple. Their unwavering devotion and leadership significantly contributed to the spiritual growth and strength of the local Latter-day Saint community, leaving a lasting legacy of faith and service.

 Joanne is remembered for her caring and gentle spirit. She was funny, resolute, wise, and kind. She had a remarkable talent for expressing her creativity through writing and painting, bringing beauty to the world around her. She found joy in watching hummingbirds dance though her garden while sipping a Diet Pepsi and snacking on Jordan almonds and Jujubes. Joanne adored flowers, especially gardenias, which never failed to bring a smile to her face. Above all, she loved being surrounded by and spending time with her family, who were the center of her world. 

 Joanne is survived by her husband Jerry, daughters, Cynthia (Psuik), Kathleen (Brown), Lisa (Airth), and Linda (King), nine grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. We know heaven is rejoicing in her arrival, and that she is reunited with her baby boy, family, and friends.

 Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at 11:00 at the Summerwood Chapel, located at 1410 Oak Hills Dr., Layton, Utah 84040. Friends and family may visit on Friday, December 20, 2024, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Lindquist Layton Mortuary, 1867 N Fairfield Rd., Layton, Utah, and again on Saturday from 10:00 to 10:30 a.m. at the church.

Interment will follow at the Tooele, Utah Cemetery.

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