(April 11, 1923 – July 9, 2015)
Our beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, Kathryn (Kathie) Lau Tanner passed away in her St. George, Utah, home on July 9, 2015. Kathie was born April 11, 1923, in the quiet town of Soda Springs, Idaho, to Emma Bienz Lau and Hyrum Moroni Lau. She is survived by her husband Stanley Robert Tanner and her children Marshall (Colleen), Scott (Sydney), Steve (Gayle), Susan (David), Maryanne (Steve), and Barbara. She has 27 grandchildren and 65 great-grandchildren.
Kathie met her sweetheart, Bob, in the fall of 1941 at a church meeting, where he recalls her as “a very beautiful brunette.” They began their courtship and were eventually married on March 17, 1945. They recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary surrounded by friends and family.
Kathie had a beautiful singing voice and sang in a trio as a young single adult. She and Bob had the opportunity to perform in a choir together at the Hollywood Bowl. She sang in ward choirs throughout her life and passed on her love of music to her children. We will be forever grateful for the memories of singing Christmas carols at our family Christmas parties.
Kathie was the student body vice president of Soda Springs High School and graduated as valedictorian of her class. She was a wonderful writer and penned many beautiful poems, some of which were published. Kathie was also a skilled cook and created many family traditions with her delicious recipes.
A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Kathie served as ward relief society president (twice), stake relief society president, instructor for relief society and young women, youth dance instructor, ward chorister, temple worker and supervisor in the Los Angeles Temple, and senior missionary with her husband in the California Los Angeles Mission. Her strong testimony and willingness to serve has enriched our family and taught us the meaning of faith, obedience, sacrifice, and love.
Kathie was beloved by all who knew her because of her generous heart and boundless love. She was a devoted wife, loving mother and doting grandmother who cared deeply for the people in her life. Her legacy of love, service, and faith in God blessed her family and all who knew her. She will be greatly missed and held in honored remembrance.
Funeral Services
- Funeral services will be Saturday, July 18, 11 a.m. at the Westridge LDS Chapel, 415 N. Westridge Drive, St. George.
- A viewing will be Friday, July 17 from 6-7 p.m. at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff Street, St. George, and prior to services Saturday from 10-10:45 a.m. at the chapel.
Arrangements have been made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, (435) 673-2454.