Our adored mom, grandma, sister, aunt and friend, passed away November 21, 2023 in Salt Lake City, UT. Maria was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina on December 27, 1932 to German parents Reinhold and Ella Hirte Stoof while her father, Reinhold, was serving as the first mission president of the South American Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She would live in Argentina for the first three years of her life along with her siblings Melvin, Delia, Elsa, Edla and Roni. The family returned to Salt Lake City in October of 1935, where her brother Norman would be born. Shortly after his birth, Ella suddenly passed away leaving seven children without a mother. The Stoof family would welcome a new mother, Maria Unterspann, just before little Maria’s 5th birthday, after which her youngest sister, Irene, would be born.
Maria spent the rest of her growing up years in Sugarhouse and attended East High School. She was always gifted with a strong work ethic, and by the time she was 12 years old she was a most popular and sought after baby-sitter. In her teenage years she worked in the office at Kress’ Department store. Following in the pattern of the Stoof girls, after graduating from high school, she went to work for Mountain Bell Telephone and Telegraph company.
She married C.A. (Bud) Bailey on April 21,1954 in the Salt Lake Temple. Using her skills and training she was able to help Bud with his business from their home, doing his bookkeeping, etc. while he was building his company. They are the parents of 4 children: Karen, Brenda, Doug and Mike. They later divorced after 36 years of marriage, but continued to be wonderful friends. She married Don Scarlet in November of 1993 and gained 4 daughters and many grandchildren.
Throughout her life, Maria has had a strong and immovable faith and testimony in the gospel of Jesus Christ. It was her unshakeable faith in our Savior’s love that sustained her through the trials in her life… especially during the death of her oldest son, Doug. She lovingly taught in the Primary organization for over 40 years, blessing the lives of the children with her love and devotion. They in turn, loved and cherished her, her teachings and example.
Maria’s legacy is her family. A dedicated mother of 4, grandma of 14, great-grandma of 44 and 4 angel great-grandbabies, she is deeply loved for her sacrifice, devotion and for the memories she created with all of them. She could tell you when each of their birthdays were by memory! Maria found her greatest joy in serving her family. A friend to everyone, she continually shared her wonderful talent for cooking and especially her famous “grandma jam” with many. Her life has been defined by her service, compassion and generosity.
Maria is survived by her children Karen and Roger (deceased) Hanson with Jeff, Mindy, Brandon, Brynn and Matt; Brenda and Doak Duncan with Cami, Bryson, Lindsey, Taylor and Carly; Michael and Lynette Bailey with Bud, Patricia and Katherine; and granddaughter Dianna Robinson, daughter of Doug (deceased) and Darcy Critser, 44 great grandchildren, sister Irene Pearmain, and many loving nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, November 30, 2023 at the Olympus 8th Ward, 2675 East 4430 South, Salt Lake. A viewing will be held before the funeral from 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. with the funeral service beginning at 11:00 a.m. Interment, Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 East 10600 South, Sandy, UT. To watch the services live or view the recording, please click the "Watch Services" button above.
Our heartfelt thanks to Truewood Assisted Living and Independence Hospice for the loving and tender care they provided in this final chapter of her life. We are eternally grateful to the Olympus 8th Ward and many neighbors and friends who loved and supported our family for the last 62 years. Your love and kindness will be forever in our hearts.
Oh how I loved my Aunt Maria!! She was the most giving and kind person I have ever known. I remember when my mom Elsa, had twins and she was unable to buy everything she needed for her babies. Maria showed up as her loving sister to help my mom. She bought cribs and blankets, clothing, diapers and everything you could even think of. I was just st young, but I remember feeling an overwhelming feeling of love and gratitude for my sweet aunt. She not only provided for the twins but also bought me and my siblings new clothes. I always wanted to be just like my aunt Maria and to grow up and help others like she did. She was the most unselfish person I have ever known. And such a great example of charity, love and kindness. I love you Aunt Maria and I am so grateful to you. You will be missed.
Love, your niece Wendy Berthold Furse🌸🌸🌸
