Javier Nicasio Saenz, PhD

Dr. Javier Nicasio Saenz completed his journey on this earth on January 6, 2015 due to complications from pneumonia.

He was born on October 16, 1933 in Panama City, The Republic of Panama to Nicasio and Dora Saenz. He was the oldest of five children. After graduating from Instituto Nacional de Panama. He did his undergraduate education in South Dakota at Dakota Wesleyan. He completed his PhD in Social Work and Psychology at the University of Utah.

Javier worked for the community mental health system for 40 years. Since 1958 he was involved with supporting minority healthcare and was recognized nationally as well as locally for his contributions including The Spanish Speaking Health and Mental Health Task Force Training Program he developed. He was recognized by the Carter administration as Psychologist of the Year for Utah. He was also recognized as Alumni of the Year at Dakota Weslyan University in 2003 for his outstanding achievements. Javier enjoyed people. He loved teaching, conversing and telling jokes. He also loved music and singing. His family was especially important to him.

Survived by his wife Karol; children Linda (Alan) Saenz Magnuson, Joshua (Stacey) Saenz; stepchildren Tom (Kristine) Pike, Suzanne Pike Coleman; 13 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; sisters Luz, Dora and Maria. Preceded in death by brother Rafael and his parents.

Celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 10th from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Complementary valet parking will be provided on the north side of the building.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the charity of choice.