Alton Lou Sass

Alton Lou “Corky” Sass       

August 7, 1931 – August 25, 2011

Alton Lou “Corky” Sass, 80, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on August 25, 2011 in West Jordan, Utah.  Alton, or “Corky” as he was known by some family members and friends, was a man with a bigger heart than ten men.  If you needed help, he was always there for you.  He was our hero and our inspiration in that he faced the adversities of life with courage and dignity and was always kind and loyal. 

Corky had an infectious laugh and a great sense of humor and wasn’t afraid to be silly with his grandchildren.  He was quite a character, strong-willed and passionate about his beliefs.  He made friends wherever he went.  He also had an artistic side and made beautiful furniture that he designed himself. 

He bravely served his country in the Army in the Korean War on the front line and earned a purple heart.  He was a pressman for the Los Angeles Times for many years until his retirement.  Later, he developed RA, complications of which ultimately led to his demise.

Alton is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Joan; and their three daughters Susan Shaw of South Jordan, Jodi Johnson of Riverside, California, and Lise Letcher of West Jordan; in addition, he is survived by his sisters LaVerne Florer of Garden Grove, California and Carol Sass of Maple Grove, Minnesota; and his brother-in-law Robert Helgesen.  He loved his son-in-laws John Johnson and Ray Letcher.  He left 14 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; cousins; and many nieces and nephews.  A special thanks to our cousin Ron Helgesen for all the things he’s done for us over the years. 

He will be much missed and in our hearts always.  We love you, dad.

A wake will be held to celebrate his life on Saturday, September 3^rd, from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City.