Wendy Lou Casperson, age 66, returned to her heavenly home Tuesday, October 31, 2023 following a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Wendy was born November 12, 1956 in Richfield, Utah to Lois Caroline Westover Wegener and Wilfred Koenig Wegener.
Wendy’s early years were spent in Richfield. When she was seven years old, her mother passed away. After her mother passed, she would have conversations with Jesus where he assured her everything would be all right. During her sixth grade year, her family moved to Gunnison, Utah. During her growing up years, she enjoyed school, friends and music. She was involved in several musicals throughout her school years. She also loved performing with her high school drill team. A great accomplishment for her was when she was awarded a Sterling Scholar for foreign language.
After graduating from Gunnison Valley High School in 1975, she attended Snow College, BYU Hawaii, and then graduated from BYU in 1979 with bachelor’s degrees in both Early Childhood and Elementary Education. Later on, she earned a master’s degree from Walden University in Reading and Literacy education.
On August 12, 1983, Wendy married John Casperson in the Salt Lake Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and together they raised four children. Wendy was devoted to her family. They always knew she would do anything for them.
Wendy taught for 39 years at different elementary schools in the Salt Lake area, with 26 of those years in 5th grade. She was a faculty advisor to Student Body Officers. She loved teaching them the importance of being an example to the rest of the students. She proudly implemented The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens into her curriculum. She has had many students thank her for the impact that book had on their young lives. She received many accolades during her career including three “Teacher of the Year” Awards. She also received the “KSL Teacher Feature Weekly” Award for which she was nominated by one of her students. For many years Wendy tutored students in reading and math during the evenings, often working 12 hour days. She helped many children including several in her neighborhood.
For 35 years she led early morning school choirs which delighted audiences with Christmas and other special musical programs, including the “Our Country Tis of Thee” program. She was always blessed to find incredible accompanists to assist her. The choirs performed at venues for the Sandy City “Turning on the Christmas lights”, the 2002 Olympic Games and the Special Olympics.
Wendy performed in many musical and dramatic plays. She played the mayor’s wife in the Music Man and stole the show. She sang with the Vernon Rose Chorale for several years and sang many solos in church and community settings. Some of her favorite numbers were Wind Beneath My Wings, Star of Bethlehem, Birthday of a King and A Child’s Prayer. Twice she directed the Easter Cantada, “Savior of the World”. She was blessed to be able to do this this for a final time this past Easter after she had been diagnosed with cancer.
All her adult life, she served faithfully in music, teaching and leadership positions in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She especially enjoyed serving with her husband John for 6 years in the Salt Lake Inner City Mission. Later they again served as missionary companions directing the family history library in one of the Utah State Prison branches. As Young Women’s President, she developed a personal relationship with each of the girls and established a tradition of making sourdough waffles for each of them on Saturday mornings at her house.
Wendy found great joy in ministering to others and found ways daily to serve those around her. One way she served was by making hygiene kits and handing them out to homeless people.
Wendy was preparing to begin her fortieth year of teaching when she received her cancer diagnosis. Immediately following the diagnosis, she retired and spent months visiting family members and friends. She enjoyed special trips to Hawaii and the Polyneasian Cultural Center with her youngest son and husband. She traveled to NYC attending Wicked, MJ the Musical and 4 other plays with her daughter. Last year she danced with her two oldest sons at their weddings. She also went on outings to Thanksgiving Point with her grandchildren. And she did it all while undergoing chemotherapy. She felt blessed every morning for another day of life.
On September 24, 2022 about 400 people gathered in the Hillcrest High School auditorium for a “Celebration of the Life of Wendy Casperson”. Over 80 current and former students performed several Christmas songs reminiscent of the performances she directed for over three decades.
Wendy was preceded in death by her parents, Wilfred and Lois Wegener, her step-parents, Geoffry and Elaine Harris, her sisters Linda Jill and Sylvia June and her brother John Frederick.
She is survived by her husband John Casperson and by her children Bryant (Jessica) Casperson, Spencer (Johanna) Casperson, Hilary (Ben) Daniel, and Eric Casperson. Also surviving her are seven precious grandchildren and her siblings Rebecca Walker, Jeannie (Keith) Brewer, Bill (Lisa) Wegener, Jim (Jenny) Wegener and David (Teresa) Harris.
She will long be remembered for her bright smiles, warm hugs, sour dough waffle breakfasts, dedication to the Savior and His gospel, and her beautiful singing.
In lieu of flowers, Wendy's wishes were that donations be made to the Missionary Funds of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Funeral services for Wendy will be held at 11AM on Saturday, November 18, 2023 at the River View 5th Ward located at 12101 South 700 West in Draper, Utah. A viewing will be held on on Friday evening from 6-8 PM at Larkin Mortuary - Riverton, 3688 West 12600 South in Riverton Utah as well as prior to the funeral services at the ward beginning at 9:30AM. Interment will follow in the Larkin Sunset Gardens Cemetery in Sandy, Utah.
Funeral Services will be streamed via Zoom for those wishing to attend virtually. To watch the previously held services, please click the "Watch Services" link above.
John, I know Wendy suffered for many months and still had that beautiful smile. I know you and all of your family will miss her forever. The ward is grateful for all the all of the things that the two of you have done for those in need.
All of our love from Virginia and Jed.
Beautiful, joyous Wendy has blessed so many lives with her grace and beauty. It was my privilege to be her Aunt. She has always greeted each of life’s challenges with a smile and faith filled energy. Her faith and hope always shines bright every time I think of her I have learned alot from her example
I met Wendy when I was 3 years old. I have countless fond childhood memories growing up two doors away from the Casperson family. When I think about growing up near Wendy, memories ranging from carpool adventures, to cabin trips, to Wendy helping out in Mrs. Emmer's kindergarten class when Bryant and I went to school. Wendy had a beautiful singing voice and I loved hearing her sing in church, Christmas caroling, in the car, or just randomly outside for no apparent reason. More than anything though, I loved that Wendy was never afraid to share her beautiful testimony of Christ's eternal atonement.
I was able to see a Wendy a few months ago and gave her one last hug good bye. During that visit, Wendy seemed excited to see her Savior again, knowing that He will take care of her family when they're separated. When I found out Wendy had passed, I immediately thought how she probably sprinted into Christ's open arms, thrilled to be reunited with her friend! Wendy knows Jesus. She loves Him and through her incredible example to the world, others desire to know Him just as she does.
Thank you, Wendy, for more than three decades of friendship! I love you so very, very much and will be eternally grateful for the example you have always been to me! 💖💖💖 Til we meet again, my dear friend! 🤗
Wendy was such a beautiful example of love and kindness to the East Sandy elementary school community. We will remember her with fondness. Deepest condolences sent to her family.
John, So sorry to hear about your sweet Wendy. Much love to you and your family.
Brother Casperson (John), We met your sweet Wendy when you both came to serve in the Cannon 5th Ward. I had the privilege of getting to know her through her never- ending service to our good sisters and young people in the ward. What a privilege to call you both friends. Our hearts hurt for your loss. She was adored by so many. Each person she met, that you met, has been forever touched. We will always cherish your friendship, May the Lord continue to bless you and your family each day. With love,Stan & Pat Busath
I will always remember Wendy and how she taught me so many wonderful things while I was in Young Women’s with her. I also remember going to Manti and camping in her parents backyard so we could go see the pageant. I’m so glad I got to see her and visit with her a couple times before she passed.
Such a beautiful tribute to a beautiful Lady , I have many fond memories and I’m glad you mentioned her sourdough waffles with the “ young women “ I was lucky enough to be serving with her and enjoyed those days with her , she taught me so much and was a beautiful example and emulated The light of Christ even with just her Smile . Her memory will live on forever until we meet again .
My prayers are with the whole Casperson Family .
Xoxo Kristen Wilder
Deepest condolences to all the Caspersons and Wegeners. Wendy was an angel who radiated the Light of Christ in her eyes and face. This world is a little darker without her bright ray of sunshine. Enjoy your well-deserved rest from pain and suffering, beautiful sister. We will see you shine even brighter in the resurrection!
Love and hugs to all,
Mark Elmont
Mapleton, Utah
(Grew up in Gunnison)
We are thinking of and praying for your family to receive comfort and support during this time. Wendy was such a wonderful woman and a great example to all of us of love and positivity and faith in the Savior. I'm sure she is close by and looking over you all.
My first, forever memory of Wendy is when she introduced herself and I felt as if we had been best friends. I loved how our visits and our long conversations that were supposed to be a “hello, how are you” tuned into hours of sharing our life experiences. Our morning walks in the summer were priceless but she was hard to keep up with. She was genuinely kind to everyone, and her faith never wavered. I am not of her faith but talking to Wendy made me think deeply. She once gave me a small pillow that read: “A friend of mine, A friend so kind, A friend to me, you’ll always be”. Well back to you girl.
I can see your beautiful blond hair, beautiful face and soul dancing in heaven, and you will be in my heart forever. Whenever I need inspiration and strength, I will think of Wendy. You were a hero to many while you were on this earth and I will deeply miss you.
I’m going to miss Wendy so much. She’s an incredible person who taught me so much. I will never forget Wendy and her example of being a light. John and family my heart felt condolences to all of you. She will be your guardian angel. Love you guys.
We send our deepest condolences to your families. I have many fond memories of Aunt Wendy and our many family reunions. She was the sweetest of my mother's siblings and her loss will be felt by so many. Our love to you and yours in this difficult time.
It’s with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to our dear courageous friend from the good ole school days in Gunnison. Wendy will forever be remembered as the always joyful, caring, giving friend to everyone. It’s fitting that she has requested remembrance donations be made to the LDS Missionary Fund. The response from classmates has be amazing and a donation made in her honor.
Our Love, GVHS Class of ‘75
Please remember this is a celebration of life! She's watching over you from heaven. And she will always be with you no matter where you go no matter what you do she's always there with you and you will see her once again and it will be a wonderful evening I promise that.
I met Wendy several years ago wtih her husband John. They were serving in the Cannon 5th ward when we were called as Service Missionaries.
Wendy was charismatic and always so happy. Instant connection. Loved her from the moment I met her. Most people did. She was Beautiful (inside and out), kind, happy, and easy to listen to. She was non judgmental and compassionate.
After years of knowing her, I found out that she had a hard childhood. She had lost her dear mother (whom she adored and told me beautiful stories of this magnificent women) and had an interesting if not hard struggle with her step mother. Who she also loved.
Wendy is a school teacher extrodernair. She loves children and treats them with love and kindness along with all whom she worked with. She was tender and talented vocally. I had the priviledge of singing with her a few times even in the conference center when they had a “refugee” chior of all ages. One of the highlights of my life.
She was so positive. Even through her cancer she told me she loved how she has been able to help others, and she told me stories of helping others through their fears of dying, fears of disease, life’s frustrations and questions and doubts.
I loved my Wendy! She made me laugh. She lit up a room with her infectious smile and happy countenance. She taught me continually with her unconditional love. She was so capable! Lessons, singing, talking to people, loving them (Christ-like Love), desire to be and do her best. She loved teaching and was amazing at it.
She adored her family and truly loved them unconditionally. Starting with her husband, her sons and daughter, Hilary. She talked lovenly about them every time I talked with her. Her delight was also her grandkids! She loved being a grandmother and cherished the time she had with them.
She loved the Lord so much. She told me the story where years ago one of her sons was asked (when about 6 years old) what is your Mother's favorite TV show? His response - General Conference! And she meant it! She loved General Conference. She loved the church and taught it in every way by her actions and love. She was one of the most Christlike people I have ever met. I want to be just like her. She loved doing things with me - adventuring! She never shyed away. So many adventures that I had with her. Laughing at Bear Lake in and out of the water, or on the Razor! Camping, Church activities, long lunches that she would sacrifice her time and energy to be with me. I truly learned so much from this amazing women!
I LOVE MY WENDY!!!!! I THANK God That I had the privilege of knowing and loving her!
It was an ABSOLUTE honor helping and getting to know Wendy. I looked forward to our walks a couple of times a week. There was an undeniable sense of strength and angels around your home. I know she will be missed, but also know she will keep a watchful eye on all those she loved the most! My thoughts are with you.
❤️Sarah Johnson
Intermountain Homecare
I feel so blessed to have taught with Wendy and also be an accompanist for the last Christmas concert at East Sandy Elementary. She truly leaves us a legacy of love, music and devotion to the Savior. Sending my love to the Casperson family.
Till we meet again.
Aunt Wendy will truly be missed. She had a way of always making you feel loved.
Sending lots of love and prayers for the family in this time of grief.
The service was really truly a tribute to her.
Love always Annette
Getting close to my dear friend, Wendy, was an easy task. We taught school together for so many years. I always told her that my favorite time of the year was when "her kids" presented the Christmas Program. What a lovely event that was. Wendy used her testimony, her humor and her love of children and mankind to send a special message in her programs that influenced the children performing. It also influenced those of us witnessing the magic of her "works" as she created a special message to us and the world. Her programs not only touched the children and their families, it touched the audience. She was ALWAYS good at that. I'm sure she is still using that charm and love on the other side as she goes about sharing God's (and our Savior's love) with others.
I can hardly imagine but I'm positive that THAT Celestial realm shone even brighter when she arrived with that gorgeous personality and beautiful smile on her face...full of grace, love and hugs.
Even though I am a few months older than this sweet woman, she has been one of my all-time heroes during so many years of my lifetime. She has touched many lives for good and touched mine in ways she could never realize. I hope to be just like her when I grow up and as I grow older. She is the example to follow...so loving, kind, caring and Christ-like.
Casperson Family: Know of the love Dan and I have for you. Dan uses the words happy, strong and positive when thinking of our sweet Wendy. The admiration of this wife and mother far exceeds what we could ever express in worldly terms. With absolute adoration for this "daughter of God," we love you. We pray for you. We send our blessings of comfort and hugs. I can hardly wait for a big hug when we meet again, my dear friend.
I’m so sad to hear of Wendy's passing. She was truly one of the sweetest women I have ever net. She had such a beautiful voice and I’m grateful I got to know her. Your family is in my prayers.
I’m so sorry to hear about Wendy’s passing. I had the privilege of having Wendy as my 5th grade teacher! She was such a light in my life and such a positive example to me. She always believed in me and would call me her “sweet angel” anytime I’d see her. She’s now my sweet angel too. I remember in class we were working on our “Young American Award” and had to check off a list of tasks in order to receive the award, some of them were very difficult for me to do but Wendy never gave up on me and knew I could do it. She always knew our potential and never let us give up. I will forever be grateful for her love and kindness. I know she is in a better place now and is with our loving Heavenly Father. Sending my love to her family!
What a wonderful aunt! Even over the phone and at the end of her life, her voice radiated joy! Till we meet again!