LuAnn Mitchell Walkenhorst

Obituary

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of LuAnn Mitchell Walkenhorst, who left us on February 14, 2025, at the age of 75. LuAnn was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, a cherished friend, and a proud member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 

Early Life

LuAnn was born in Salt Lake City, Utah to parents, Norman Lee Mitchell and Amy Norton Mitchell. Growing up, she displayed a keen interest in sewing, singing, painting, and family history. She excelled in school. She was particularly close to her father, Norm, often going to work with him as he built and remodeled homes. LuAnn’s childhood was filled with family trips with camping, fishing, and singing around the campfire, setting the foundation for a life creating beautiful memories.

Education and Career

After graduating from West High School in 1968, LuAnn attended the University of Utah and graduated with a degree in early childhood development. She loved being a stay-at-home mother for her three sons until the youngest graduated from high school. She worked fifteen years for the Utah State Office of Education and the school districts in Utah, training school food service workers. Overlapping those years, she worked for the Utah Restaurant Association training restaurant manager and workers in ServSafe. She loved teaching and working with friends. 

Personal Life

LuAnn married Steven Walkenhorst in 1972, and together they built a home filled with love and laughter. She was a devoted mother to David, Daniel and Mark, always offering support, guidance, and unwavering love. She was a loving grandmother to ten grandchildren, seven beautiful girls and three handsome boys. Family was at the heart of LuAnn’s life, and she cherished every moment spent with her children and grandchildren.

Community Involvement

LuAnn was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She served as a Primary president three times, where she loved to sing with the children. Even toward the end she still sang “When I Am Baptized” with her grandchildren. Another of her favorite callings was teaching a special needs Sunday School class.

Hobbies and Interests

In her free time, LuAnn enjoyed crafts, sewing, cooking, baking, singing, quilting, oil painting, and collecting family stories and pictures. These brought joy and fulfillment to her and others. She shared these passions with friends and family, creating treasured memories that will live on in their hearts.

Legacy

LuAnn’s legacy is one of kindness, generosity, strength, and joy. She touched the lives of many, leaving behind a world that is better for having known her. LuAnn’s spirit will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Survived By

LuAnn is survived by her husband Steve and their sons David (Nicole), Centerville, Utah; Daniel (Julie), Farmington, Utah; and Mark (Audrey), Delta, Colorado. She is also survived by her brothers Lee (Sue) Mitchell, Centerville, Utah and Kim (Karleen) Mitchell, West Jordan, Utah and by a sister Ilene (Brent) Christison, Centerville, Utah. LuAnn is survived by her ten beloved grandchildren: Graysen, Katheryn, Sloane, Rylee, Madalyn LuAnn, Marlee, Harper, Mack, Emery, and Stockton. She was preceded in death by her parents and sisters: Judy and Letha. 

Viewing and Funeral Service

Friends and family may call on February 20, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the Russon Brothers Mortuary, 1941 N Main Street, Farmington Utah. The funeral service will be held on February 21, 2025, at 11:00 am at the Rock Chapel, 272 N Main Street, Farmington, Utah. There will also be a viewing at the church prior to the funeral from 10:00 to 10:45 am. The interment will be at the Farmington City Cemetery, 500 S 200 E, Farmington, Utah.

Services will be streamed live on the Russon Mortuary Live Facebook page and on this obituary page. The live stream will begin 10-15 minutes prior to services and will be posted below.

Final Thoughts

We mourn LuAnn's loss and celebrate her well-lived life. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.