In Memory

Yvonne Willich (Baker) - Class Of 1979

Place of Death:  South Jordan, UT

Cause of Death:  Lung Cancer

SOUTH JORDAN, Utah • Early on the morning of Wednesday, July 30, 2014, I lost my 2½-year battle with lung cancer. As a lifelong nonsmoker, I learned that lung cancer is not just a smoker’s disease. I lived a healthy, active lifestyle thinking I would grow to be old and senile, but life had other plans for me. I have had a wonderful life surrounded by great friends and family that stood by me and supported me through this challenge.

To my husband, Kevin: You complete me. You never made me feel like I was a burden to care for. You stood by my side until the bitter end, showing me love and compassion.

To my children, Jason Pribyl Baker, Greg Pribyl Baker, Sloan Baker and Chelsea Baker Nelson: You have made my life a fun and exciting adventure. We have had great memories, and I hope I taught you the importance of being kind and nonjudgmental. I know you will live long and happy lives. I hope that you will smile when you think of all the times we laughed and cried together. I will always be watching over you. I may be gone physically, but I will live on in your hearts.

I lived an active life. I was involved in high school sports, student government, honor society and Girl’s State. All of my experiences and growing up in a large family helped me learn the value of hard work and self-reliance. This helped me run a successful insurance agency for 24 years. During that time, I developed many wonderful friendships that meant so much to me. I will always cherish the things my friends and clients taught me.

I have lived a great life and have done most of the things I set out to do. I have asked my family to follow my wishes. I have chosen to be cremated and not have a public funeral or burial. I choose to be remembered for how I lived my life and that those close to me will think of me when enjoying a beautiful summer day, a motorcycle ride in the mountains or just hanging out laughing and enjoying good food.

Special thanks to the doctors and staff at the Huntsman Cancer Institute. You gave me some extra time and helped me maintain a good quality of life while I fought this beast. Please consider a donation to the Huntsman Center in my name in lieu of flowers.

I am survived by my husband, Kevin; my four children; my parents, Suzanne Smith and Theodore Willich; and a large extended family. I will miss all of you.

Online condolences at www.jenkins-soffe.com.

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