Joann Kjar Tanner

JoAnn was born August 8, 1946, in Ogden, Utah to Louis Clinton and Elaine Mildred Koster. She graduated from Hillcrest High School. She then attended the University of Utah, where she graduated with a degree in nursing.

On September 19, 1967, JoAnn married Floyd Rowse Tanner in the Salt Lake Temple. Together, they embarked on a journey of love and family, raising six wonderful children. JoAnn's devotion to her children, her church and her community was unparalleled—volunteering tirelessly on PTAs, leading the music in primary, helping at schools, and touching countless lives with her kindness.

JoAnn balanced her role as a mother with her passion for nursing, earning her master’s degree and dedicating her career to helping others. From her work at Primary Children's Hospital to her final role with Missionary Medical, JoAnn made a meaningful difference, caring for those in need with empathy and expertise. JoAnn was also a breast cancer survivor. She faced her diagnosis head-on, determined to live life with joy and purpose.

JoAnn's culinary skills were legendary, and her flaky pie dough will remain a family treasure as none of us have found a way to duplicate it. She was an incredible baker filling our home with the sweet aroma of fresh bread, cookies, and homemade pies. No family gathering was complete without one of JoAnn’s rolls and homemade jam, even though they were usually for dessert.

An avid reader, a lover of music, and a talented pianist, JoAnn’s passions were as boundless as her love for her family. “Grandma Angel” showed her grandchildren the same devotion she showed her own children. Sam, Alex, and Nick were especially blessed to grow up under her roof, learning invaluable lessons about unconditional love and selflessness.

After Floyd’s passing in 2013, JoAnn moved from Holladay to South Jordan. She built new friendships but still connected with her cherished friends from her former neighborhood, high school and book club friends. This filled her retirement years with joy and purpose.

JoAnn’s life and legacy is one of vibrancy, sacrifice and love. She had a sharp wit and a delightful sense of humor, keeping those around her smiling even through the toughest times. She will be dearly missed by her children, grandchildren, siblings, and friends. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

Our family would like to express our appreciation to the staff at The Peaks of South Jordan and Bristol Hospice for the warmth, care and compassion shown to JoAnn and for the support provided to our family.

JoAnn is survived by her children Tyler Tanner (Shawni), Erin Tanner, Kimball Tanner, Sarah Bruner (Todd), Lynsie Olsen, 12 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren and brother Jeff Kjar (Kathy). JoAnn is preceded in death by parents Louis & Elaine Kjar, sister Susan Thomas, spouse Floyd Tanner, daughter Minden Washa (Terry) and grandson Ethan Johnson.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2025 at 12:00pm at the Olympus 9th Ward, 4100 S Camille Drive. Friends may attend a viewing from 10:30 to 11:30 am prior to the service. Interment will be at Wasatch Lawn Memorial, 3401 Highland Drive.