Condolences

We loved carl dearly he was truly a remarkable man with many accomplishments throughout his life. Carl was a source of inspiration to us. we will never forget him! Our thoughts and prays are with you mom. Love Shane Glenda Chris and Garrett.

shane stroh
Sandy, UT

Carl Herrera's Funeral Homily 
 
By Deacon John Kranz 
 
 
Rarely has the experience of sharing in the dying process of someone had such an impact on me. Perhaps it's because I've known Carl for so long. Perhaps it's because our human nature is weak and understands so little the ways of God. Or maybe it's because after a relatively difficult battle with his mental, physical and emotional health, it was the relatively peaceful way in which Carl passed from this life into the loving embrace of God. Whatever the case may be, we can find solace in our faith and confidence in our Heavenly Father, who is undoubtedly happy that his beloved child is in his arms again. Peace may not be found today, maybe not tomorrow, but it will come. The sacramental signs of our faith convince us that this is true.  
 
The Paschal Candle ~ present at Carl's baptism is also present here today. 
 
The flame on this Paschal candle represents Christ's light in our lives. At his baptism Carl and his parents and Godparents were told to keep that light burning brightly. At that time a light was lit within Carl, whether he necessarily realized it later in life or not, that absolutely burned brightly throughout his life and enlightened the lives of those he came in contact with. As with any flame there are moments when there are tremendous bursts of brightness and there are also moments when our light barely flickers at all; however, if there was one theme that stood out in Carl's life it was a willingness to help others through his ability to build, fix, weld, to create. This is when his light shined brightest. This is how he shared his light in the lives of others. Throughout his life, in his own way, I think the exercise of these abilities was his way of trying to build a better future for himself and his children and his children's children. He didn't do this alone. For the last half of his life he did this with an invaluable partner: his wife, Lana. And Lana, I can say with certainty you were Carl's light every much as he was your own. Carl's children by birth and his children in marriage (who were no less his children) and all his grandchildren were significant flames of joy that brought tremendous light to his life. His brothers and sisters, extended family and friends ~ he spoke often of you all, and seemed always to be making plans to visit each of you. So you will understand when I say that when Carl was given a Christian mandate at his baptism to keep the light of Christ alive in his heart ~ he completed that task successfully. He brought that Christian dignity unstained into everlasting life and passed the flame of charity on to others. 
 
The Funeral Pal draped over Carl's Remains reminds us of the  
white baptismal garment he received at his baptism. 
 
This pal is also a sign of those times when Carl received the gentle touch of our Lord's mercy. I am talking about those moments in one's life when our clothes are made white as snow because of His sacrifice (pointing to Christ on the crucifix) and the sorrow we experience for having sinned against others. In other words, atoning for our shortcomings by acts of mercy, of compassion and love. Carl more than atoned for any short comings he may have had through life: making financial loans to friends and family, helping others to build homes, helping others repair their vehicles, buying appliances for those in need, offering free room and board. I could go on. The point is this: Blessed are those who have shown mercy for mercy shall be theirs. Allow this fact to provide you with some degree of comfort. These are only a few or the attributes Carl leaves with us. 
 
The Resurrected Christ. 
 
The culmination of these sacramental signs of our faith (The Easter Candle, The White Pal, the Crucifix, the Book of Gospels.) reassure us that Carl now shares in the promises of these mysteries. A life well lived is always rewarded by Our Heavenly Father and through the sacrifice of Jesus. Carl's promise, and therefore yours, is that he has been raised from the dead to a new life in Christ, eternally.  
 
It will take time to heal from this loss. 
 
Carl's light burns through us by virtue of our having known him. The best way to honor Carl and to assist in our own healing is to honor him by allowing that light to pass on to others in his memory. How can we do this? Over the next little while offer an act of mercy to another in need in his memory. As Carl would, help another in need to build at brighter future in his memory. Carl constructed a life centered on acts of love and mercy. It was a legacy he passes on to each of us. 
 
With our deepest love and prayers for Carl & Lana. John, Teresa, Sarah & Kate.

John Kranz
Salt Lake City, UT

Carl was a Christian and did enjoy helping others especially building things. He was a great builder. To Lana and all his family I am sorry for your loss and may God Bless you in this time of sorrow, but one day you will see him again and he is resting in the arms of Jesus along with others who have gone on to be with Jesus. May God Bless and Keep you . June Boyer

June Boyer
Salt Lake City, UT

Dear Teresa, John and family, 
We are so sorry to hear of the passing of your step-father. Oue thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. If there is anything we can do, please let us know. 
May God's many blessings give you strength and peace. 
Mel, Linda, Kim & Russ

Linda ANdersen
Salt Lale City,, UT

Its hard to understand why people are taken from us, but find comfort in knowing we were a part of such a well lived life. To my Uncle that I have known all my life, may he rest in peace with all his family in heaven!!Our thoughts and prayers are with you Aunt Lana and cousins Delph, Mark, and Scott.

Joe & Norma Jean Flores Anguiano
Del Rio, , TX