Canda Lynn Patterson

.Canda Lynn Patterson (Candy) passed away peacefully at her home in Salt Lake City, Utah on May 8, 2014. She was born in Provo, Utah on June 13, 1947 to Gordon M. and Alta J. Christensen. She attended Skyline High School and graduated from the University of Utah with an undergraduate degree in Physical Education and a Masters of Education.

Candy was a passionate and dedicated educator for 30 years with the Jordan/Canyons school district. She wasn’t just an educator; she was also a mentor to so many people. She was an avid reader of all types of genres and loved to travel and learn about other cultures and religions. Candy was a member of the LDS church and enjoyed singing in the church choir. During her years at Skyline High School she participated in pep club, played multiple instruments in the school band, joined the ski team and the folk singing club. In addition to raising her four sons, Candy loved riding horses, playing golf, skiing, and teaching swim lessons.

Candy loved teaching and seeing the “light bulb” turn on in the eyes and minds of her students. She took great pleasure in participating in M.U.N. (Model United Nations) with her honor students year after year. One of Candy’s most valued achievements during her teaching career was when she received the prestigious “Roger Williams Award” in 2012 at Butler Middle School.

Candy loved spending time at the family cabin. Those who had the pleasure of visiting “Candy’s Cabin” can attest to the beauty and abundant sense of peace it holds. She loved spending hours on the porch reading and relaxing, feeding skunks at her feet, and truly enjoying everything nature had to offer. The wildlife and sound of the river made this place her personal slice of heaven on earth.

Anyone who had the pleasure of knowing Candy knows that she was one of most selfless and humble people on this earth. Her desire and ability to connect with people from all walks of life was evident in her interactions and relationships with everyone around her. Candy’s sons were her top priority. While she accomplished so much in her own life, she constantly talked about how proud she was of her sons and their accomplishments. She always put the needs and desires of others above her own. She gave unconditionally of herself, her time, and her love. You never left Candy’s presence without knowing how much she loved you.

Candy is survived by her sons and their wives: Christopher, Andrew (Cindi), Jack (Jennifer), and Casey; her grandchildren: Zachary, Vanessa, Lexus, and McKae; her brother Gordon Christensen; and her loyal dog Jake.

Candy will always be remembered for her delicious chocolate nut clusters she made for her friends, neighbors, and loved ones during the holiday season.

Candy, you are loved. We miss you, your smiling face, your stories that always started or ended with “very interesting”, and the cute little rocking back and forth move you did when you were excited about something. Rest in peace, Mom.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, May 13th at 2:00pm at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary, 3401 South Highland Drive, Salt Lake City, Utah. The family will receive friends prior to the funeral service for a viewing from 12:00-1:45pm. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in her name to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. Donations can be mailed to: Best Friends Animal Society, 5001 Angel Canyon Road, Kanab, Utah 84741, or via phone by calling 435-644-4811.