Joan Astin

On the morning of December 28, 2024, Joan “Joni” Astin passed away peacefully, finally giving in to the persistent calls of her high school sweetheart and husband, Lew, who had been waiting for her to join him for 22 years. In true Lew fashion, he probably said, “Joni, enough is enough. Let’s go.” And knowing her, she likely replied, “Fine, but I’ll need an appointment to get my hair done as soon as I get there.” The lives of her three children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren are a testament to Joni’s enduring legacy.

Joni’s faith in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was at the heart of her life. After Lew’s passing, she opened her home to sister missionaries for years, a time she cherished deeply. She welcomed them with open arms, endless laughter, and a bottomless supply of caffeine-free Diet Coke.

Her home on Suzette Circle was her happy place, especially the front porch where she spent countless hours chatting with neighbors. A true social butterfly, Joni thrived on connection, always greeting loved ones with “kiddo” or “darlin’” and signing off every conversation with her signature phrase: “Love you, love you, love you.”

Joni was stubborn and sassy, and she knew it, too. Her “deer trail” kept her close to home; she refused to make left turns and avoided freeways at all costs. When life didn’t go her way, she had a favorite phrase that said it all: “This is bullsh*t.”

For over 30 years, Joni ran a salon in her basement, transforming hair and lives in equal measure. She loved hair and found something positive to say about everyone’s style, no matter how questionable. She never left the house without her own hair perfectly styled, lipstick in place, and jewelry shining. If heaven has a beauty parlor, Joni already has an appointment booked and is probably telling all her “ladies” up there how fabulous their hair looks.

Joni’s love showed in many ways. Without exception, her purse was stocked with a stash of York Peppermint Patties and Lifesaver mints that she would offer to those around her. She was always there for you and true to her word; no matter the game, performance, or event, no matter the importance, you could count on her being there. Joni’s recent love language was phone calls. If you were on her list, you could count on 20–30 updates a day about her lunch, her latest Hallmark movie, or just a reminder of how much she loved and missed you.

To honor her, grab a Junior Whopper, crack open a Diet Coke, and tell someone how amazing they look today. That’s exactly how Joni would want to be remembered—with love, laughter, and just the right amount of sassiness.

Love you, love you, love you, Joni.

Survived by her three children, Leslie Kolovich (Kent), Russell Astin (Denise) and Sherry Spence (Dave), six grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.

A viewing will be held at Wasatch Lawn Memorial on Friday, January 3, 2025 at 12pm followed by a graveside service.