In Loving Memory
1940•2026
LaVerda “Lala” Pohlman, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family just two days after her 86th birthday, following a courageous battle in recent years with a brain tumor.
Born on May 6, 1940, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Burton and Thera Fenton, Lala lived a life full of energy, laughter, friendship, and deep love for her family. At just 16 years old, she eloped with her high school sweetheart, Ronald “Ron” Pohlman, beginning a love story that would span decades. Together they built a beautiful life, raising their family and creating countless memories with the many friends they cherished along the way.
Lala attended beauty school early in life, where her creativity and sense of style naturally stood out. Over the years, she worked alongside family and friends at Village Bakery and Amsco Windows before retiring from Questar Gas Company. She also spent time at Litton’s and was always happy to pick up seasonal “Christmas jobs” to make the holidays extra special for her children and grandchildren.
Lala had a gift for making life fun. She loved boating at Lake Powell, golfing, cruising, tennis, card games, and spending time with the people she loved most. While cooking was never her favorite thing, she was always willing to clean up or make dinner reservations. Holidays, vacations, and family gatherings were made brighter because of her thoughtfulness, humor, and ability to make everyone feel welcome and loved.
More than anything, Lala adored her family. She is survived by her children, Pam Pace and Gregory (Beth) Pohlman; daughter-in-law Joyce Pohlman; grandchildren Brian Pohlman (Jessica Luhr), Casi Pohlman, Daniele Torino, Justin (Amanda) Pace, Alisha Pace (Chris Seeley), Samantha (Krey) Wilde, and Jackson (Natalie) Pohlman; 14 great-grandchildren; her sister, Jo Ann Syndergaard; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Ron; and her twin brother, Louis Fenton.
There is comfort in knowing that Lala spent her final days in the same bed she and Ron shared for decades — the same place where he peacefully passed years earlier. Their love story remained close to her heart throughout her life.
A Celebration of Life will be held on May 14, 2026, from 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. at Larkin Sunset Mortuary, 2350 E. 1300 S., Salt Lake City, Utah.
Serving as pallbearers will be her grandsons: Brian Pohlman, Justin Pace, Jackson Pohlman, Chris Seeley, and Krey Wilde. Honorary pallbearers will be her great grandsons: Kayden Seeley, Kai Pohlman, Jordan Pace, Jaymie Pace, and Gage Meyers.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or a charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be shared by clicking the link above.
My memory of a wonderful, caring, loving person will always stay in my heart. Though in a short time of knowing her, One can say she’s genuinely a kind hearted lady. To those who really knew her, will miss her and to the one’s who loved her she will be in their hearts. Rest in Peace “Lala”. Condolence to the families.🙏🙏🙏
Sincere sympathy to the family. She was a pioneer of strength and unconditional love. God Bless
Lala was such a wonderful lady. I always felt like a grandson to her whenever I was around with Jackson as we grew up. She always brought light into the room. She will be missed.
Pam, Greg, and family. Iwas so sorry to hear about LaVerda's passing. I remember the great times we had together at Lake Powell. I know that she had many friends, like my mom Linnae and Carol. I'm glad I knew her. She will be missed.
So sorry that I only heard about her passing and celebration of her life after the fact. She worked for me for many years at Questar, while she managed the shareholder services department. She was a great advocate for her company and employees and was a delightful person to know. I was her “boss” in name only, because nobody was truly her superior. She managed “up”. Together she and Ron were always such a fun and dynamic pair, and now they are back at it together again. And I am sure they are happy for that.
I just found out LaVerda had passed away. I worked with LaVerda in Shareholder Services at Questar. She had great knowledge and taught me a lot. I truly enjoyed working with her. I'm sorry for your loss.
Thank you for everything. Thank you for the great times each year for Christmas. The fun games my children got to experience. The wonderful memories of visiting you in Arizona and the fun card games. I will always remember what you said to me the last time I saw you. May you rest easy, and I appreciate all you have done for my family.
A few kind words can mean a great deal to the family in the days ahead.
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