Julie Fikstad
The sunlight in her heart cared for all the people around her. Her loving light was present in all that she did and all that she was. We are better people - emotionally, physically, and spiritually because of her.
There was a light in her optimism, her warm smile, and her contagious laugh. It was reflected in the way she would dance and sing. A part of her sunlight keeps us warm and safe as we wrap up in the quilts she personalized for us. It spread from her hands to the garden she grew, the bread she baked, and the countless thoughtful, and often healthy, special dinners and treats.
Her light remains in the texts, messages, pictures, and memories that show us how much she cared and how much she loved us. It is in the confidence she gave us by always finding the good in us that we often overlooked. It is here in all of the costumes and dolls she made and in the clothes she sewed, hemmed, and fixed.
Her love shined in the way she cut her family's hair, sometimes carefully placing curlers or weaving French braids and occasionally removing gum. She will always be a part of us in her ability to find the best deals and to find a use for things that others may consider trash. She never failed to express her love and affection, in both her words and actions. She cared for us when we were sick, rubbed our backs and necks when we were sore, and treated all our wounds. She hugged and told us she loved us every chance she got. Her selfless nature and unconditional love became a small part of us.
A part of her sunlight lives on in each grandchild she has helped to bring into this world, lovingly rocked to sleep, read stories to, held hands with, and expressed pride in.
Her sunlight will continue to shine in all the people she cared for as a nurse and in all of the babies she helped get the best start in life possible.
Although her body is no longer with us, her beautiful sunlight will always shine in our hearts and yours.
A wake to celebrate her life will be held on Thursday, April 17th from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City.