Teresa Norene Wendel

Our beautiful mama left this earth on January 22, 2019 of an unexpected heart attack. Her heart was so big and so full of love, it’s no wonder it literally wore out. She lived a happy and vibrant life. Everyone who knew her felt of her abundant and never-ending love. She was fiercely loyal, forgiving, and brave. She always put her kids first. She was the best mom to have ever lived.

In our mom’s journey to find love after her divorce, there were many moments of laughter due to the pool of single 55 year old men. Despite how ridiculous many of her dating experiences were, she kept an optimistic and humorous perspective. On her dating profile, she described herself in the following words:

“‘Being single doesn't mean no one wants you, it means God is still writing your love story.' Ready for chapter two!

I'm playful, witty, a little sarcastic, but I don't play games in my relationships. I'm spirited which means I'm passionate about life. I create harmony and happiness in my life by surrounding myself with healthy, optimistic people who inspire me. I'm real, I hate drama, gossip and people who are highly emotional (hate is a strong word). I'm a good friend and have a gift to love unconditionally and deeply. I'm smart, because life has been a good teacher.

The gospel is my anchor! I feel blessed to know real joy, because I've experienced deep pain. I'm thankful that my Savior rescues me and lifts me higher than before. I have too many blessings to count ߙ‚

Everything is fun when you're with people you love! I'm learning to enjoy things I've never tried (like riding on a motorcycle going 120 MPH – okay, that's just nuts), learning to surf behind a ski-boat (I broke a rib), riding a bike after 25 years (I crashed into the bushes). Maybe I'm a little accident prone, but I'm willing to try anything. I love the outdoors, but hate bugs, so if we go hiking or camping you'll need to bring a gun! I do like shooting (no accidents yet) ߙ‚

I like working out and have taught kick boxing and weight lifting classes. I love shopping in Paris, going on safari in Africa, but I'm just as content sitting on my couch with a Diet Pepsi and chocolate donut!”

Our mom loved love and we are forever grateful she finally found it with Mike Call. Mike motivated her to become the best version of herself. He brought so much light and happiness back into her life and there’s nothing more we could have wanted in her last few months of life.

She was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and had an intimate relationship with her Heavenly Father and Savior. She had also expressed that she did not fear death because of her belief in the Plan of Salvation.

Teresa is preceded in death by her father, J Golden Barton, and leaves behind her three children, Ashley (Chris), Joshua (Jessica), and Lacee, two perfect grandsons, Gabriel (1 year) and James (3 months), her loving mother Norene Barton, as well as five younger siblings – Jason, Nannette, Jay, Candice, and Jared. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews whom she loved like her own children.

A viewing will be held at Russon Brothers Mortuary, 1941 N. Main, Farmington, UT from 5:00 to 7:00 pm on Sunday, January 27. We will also gather on Monday, January 28 from 9:30 to 10:30 am at the Kaysville Utah South Stake Center, 900 S. Main Street, Kaysville, UT for a viewing preceding the funeral services at 11:00 am.