1940 – March 15, 2023
Holladay, UT
I was born to two wonderful and loving parents, Wayne and Georgie Mae Stewart. I have so many fond memories growing up of my parents. The way they cared for me and taught me what was important in life. I also have wonderful memories of the times my brother, Keith (Kathie) and sister, Darlene Cochran (Roy) and I shared while growing up. They and their families have brought me so much joy over the years.
I have so much love for my wife, Jo Ann, and our daughters, Sydnie Christensen (Scott), Jennifer Johnson, and Heather Knighton (Bill). I am so glad we were able to share so many awesome experiences. What a wonderful, exciting, joyful trip this life has been with each of you.
Our five grandchildren; Sada Christensen, Carissa Christensen, Jaycie Christensen, Margaux Knighton, and Charles Knighton gave me so many awesome surprises. You made me laugh and cry (happy tears). Grandkids are so awesome.
I have always loved Jo Ann’s family (La Familia) for their acceptance, kindness, fun, jokes, and awesome, home-cooked food. True special ties and love these last 44 years.
The friends I made at Hawthorne Elementary, Lincoln Junior, South High, the University of Utah, and my work at the State Office of Education are still wonders of decade’s long friendships. I met so many fascinating, wonderful people and cherish the memories of long rides to places everywhere and for “the talks” I grew from; also the lunches and “The Boys” get togethers. I think of you all as the Best of Best friends.
My parents and siblings were deaf; therefore, sign language was my native language. Because of this, and my career as a counselor and State Administrator for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, I had the honor of knowing the most accepting, interesting, loving, caring, and fascinating people–The Deaf Community. They gave me far more than I ever gave back. I can honestly say, “I love you all.”
I met God in my later years. The most phenomenal meeting of my entire life. I truly believe His Amazing Grace, His Son, has saved me; because I know I was not worthy. He has opened my heart, mind, and soul to His Word. I pray you may know God, too. 1John 5:1-12.
“Magoo, there is no one else I would rather travel the roads of life with. Thank you for an awesome, fun, and memorable trip. Madly, deeply, always, forever.”
The family would like to thank Symbii Home Health and Hospice for their extraordinary care of Gene. Joan, Teresa, Mario, and Denisse; your care and empathy will forever be appreciated.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Rescue Mission of Salt Lake City.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, April 8, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Salt Lake City, 12 C Street, Salt Lake City, Utah.
Published by The Salt Lake Tribune from Mar. 27 to Mar. 29, 2023.