Janene Foutz Daskalas

May 21, 1950 - January 21, 2021
Our beloved, loving and full of life, wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend Janene Foutz Daskalas passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her loving family on January 21, 2021 at the age of 70. 
 
Janene was born on May 21st, 1950 in Salt Lake City, Utah to John and Grace Foutz. She was the youngest of 6 siblings.  In 1967, Janene met her loving husband Michael with whom she has shared 53 wonderful years together and together they raised two children, Andrew and Marie. In 1975, Janene studied to become an LPN and graduated as president of her class.  From then on, Janene and Michael built a successful small business, caring for long term nursing home patients for over 40 years. Janene was also a devoted volunteer with the Utah Foster Care Citizen Review board for over 6 years helping foster children find safe and permanent homes. 
 
Janene and Michael traveled the world far and wide, never letting her physical limitations stop her.  Her most beloved places to visit were San Simeon, California where countless hours were spent at the oceanside, exploring the beach and tidepools; Disneyland, her love of which began when she was a young child (and with a gentle force she passed the same passion and love for the park onto her family and many family friends); camping trips to Yellowstone to see the incredible natural beauty and wildlife; and most simply, trips to the family cabin in Oakley, Utah.
 
Janene’s most treasured things in life were her family. She loved her husband, children and grandchildren more than anything and always made sure they knew that. Almost immediately upon meeting Michael in the summer of ‘67, she embraced the Greek culture and Orthodox faith and did everything she could to be involved at church events and created everlasting traditions at home. She was a wonderful cook and host and especially loved cooking greek food and pastries. Known for, by the lucky few, for making the best Greek easter bread and twist cookies. 
 
Janene had a smile that could light up a room and a sense of humor like no other.  She was a natural caregiver and maternal figure to so many throughout her life.  Many friends of her children would call her their second mom or soccer mom.  The title "mom" came effortlessly to her.  She was always involved and present for her children’s and grandchildren's schooling, sporting events, games, performances and concerts.   
 
Janene loved life and laughter, shopping, fashion and had a timeless sense of style.  She loved movies and together with her husband were regulars at the local movie theaters. She had a profound love for music, travel and was a life long sports fan and especially jazz fan attending countless games over the past 40 years. Her selfless, empathetic and thoughtful care for others will be proudly carried on by her loving family.
 
Janene is preceded in death by her parents, two sisters and two brothers. She is survived by her caring and loving husband, Michael; son, Andrew Daskalas; daughter, Marie Daskalas Zohoori (Seyavash); sister Marilyn Dickinson (Keith); grandson Bryson Hendricks; granddaughter Hannah Daskalas; grandsons James Daskalas and Alexander Michael Zohoori;  and many nieces and nephews.    
 
We would like to express our gratitude to the team of ICU nurses at IMC who cared for Janene these past weeks.  Also, her sister-in-laws Aphrodite and Mary who stayed by her side to comfort and care for her while at home.  Our angel caregiver, Janet Latu with Home Care Assistance.  As well as Father Anthony Savas who was faithfully at her side showing immense care and love for Janene and her family. 
 
All services will be livestreamed to encourage all to stay home and stay healthy.  Trisagion will be held on Wednesday, January 27 at 6:00 PM by reservation only.  Viewing will follow from 7:00 until 9:00 PM.  Those who wish to view and pay their respects to Janene's family during this time must please make a reservation by calling Starks Funeral Parlor at 801-474-9119 during regular business hours.  Funeral will be held on Thursday January 28th at 12:00 noon at St. Anna Greek Orthodox Church.  She will be laid to rest at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Those wishing to attend virtually may view the services by returning to this page and selecting the “Watch Service” button which will appear above prior to the beginning of the service. Services will remain on this website for all to view at anytime.  
 
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Janene's name to the St Anna Greek Orthodox Church Capital Campaign. 
 
May her memory be eternal