Kalli Brin Huntsman

Kalli Brin Huntsman, age 56 of Holladay, UT passed away on the morning of Wednesday March 12, 2025 in her home. Kalli was known for her fierce loyalty, her capacity to care for others regardless of the circumstances, and the confidence to do what she believed was right regardless of the consequences. Kalli is survived by her loving husband of 37 years, Kade. They were married and sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple. She is also survived by her children McKade (Madison) Huntsman, Chandler (Parker) Astin, Miklain (Coulson) Hardy, Cavin (Taya) Huntsman, and Berrett Huntsman, her brothers Brooke (Deb) Berrett and Radd Berrett, and her grandchildren Charlotte, Leonardo, Liam, Lela, Gabriel, Bowie, Ellie, and Lacey. Kalli will be rejoining with her baby Ren Huntsman, her sister Tiffany Berrett, her mother Linda Nicholls, and her father James Berrett. She also leaves behind countless aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Born on December 26, 1968 in Scottsdale, Arizona, she lived an exceptional life. Kalli held more titles in her life than most, and she carried each one with unimaginable grace. The titles of Grandmama and Mom were the two that she held most dear. Kalli raised, encouraged, and supported 5 children of her own, but it didn’t stop there. With each marriage Kalli gained a new daughter or son. She had a unique ability to sense anyone who needed love, and was known to welcome and include them as her own. Everyone who met her could feel her motherly love. She was proud of them all and would much rather have a list of their accomplishments here. Too bad.

Kalli started college at the age of 15, working on her college degree before she could drive. At the University of Utah she was a proud member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma women’s fraternity. Even more impressive is that she went back and finished her degree at 51 while continuing to be an active Kappa Kappa Gamma alumnus, inspiring so many that came after her. Still unsatisfied, Kalli continued her educational journey to earn a Master of Science in History. She was offered positions at international museums, notably accepting one outside of London. Kalli then worked with the Daughters of Utah Pioneers as a historical researcher.

Kalli started her professional career as a model. Then when the need arose, she became an insurance professional who supported a family of 7 while putting her husband through medical school, breaking the glass ceiling. Later in life Kalli was a restaurateur with 3 restaurants across the Salt Lake Valley. Finally, she and her husband started a medical practice together.

Kalli held many leadership positions in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She was a notable Relief Society President, Teacher, and member of the Primary Presidency. She also spent countless hours baking fresh bread each Sunday for anyone who needed it. The doctrine of the church was incredibly important to Kalli, nothing more so than that of the eternal family. This could be seen through traditions like baking Thanksgiving rolls as a family each year. She extended this doctrine beautifully as a Young Women’s President, making sure each young woman knew that they had a family and a home with her.

Kalli was also a professional at having fun. She was a scuba diver, recording dives in multiple continents. She was an international traveler, who never returned without an extra suitcase full of souvenirs. She was a retail therapy advocate and expert. Finally, she loved watching those around her have fun.

Kalli was a proper but vulgar staunch second wave feminist, and a ruthless advocate for anyone without a voice (her masters degree was focused on underrepresented history). She was a strong woman who raised up other strong women. One of her favorite quotes was “You were sent to change the world, don’t let it change you.” Despite many battles in her life Kalli did not let the world change her, and we are all so very lucky for that. She knew and loved her Savior, Jesus Christ, and her faith remains strong.

To those who knew her best, Grandmama always had a purse full of candy and a distraction ready for parents. Grandmama earned a designer (authentic) Mary Poppins purse(s) much earlier in life than most do, and she wore it well. She was not afraid to share her favorite, diet coke, with her young grandchildren. Nobody ever escaped without a full belly, pocket full of treats, and a schlurple for each grandchild.

In true Kalli fashion, she requested that we all wear bright colors. Though her favorite color is black, she always thought it made funerals too sad.

Funeral Services will be held Saturday, March 22, 2025 at 10:00 am at The Cottonwood 5th Ward, 5913 S Highland Dr, Holladay, UT. A viewing will be held from 8:30 - 9:30 am prior to the services as well as Friday, March 21 from 6:00 - 8:00 pm all at the same location. Interment will follow services at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park, 3401 S Highland Dr, Milcreek, UT.