Barbara Jean Stilinovich
June 22, 1950 - November 21, 2023
Our devoted mother, sister, aunt and friend Barbara Jean Stilinovich passed away on November 21, 2023 after a short battle with ovarian cancer. She was born on June 22, 1950 to Harold Erickson and Mary Sanone Erickson in Salt Lake City. She later married the love of her life, Tony Stilinovich on September 11, 1971 at St Ambrose Catholic church. Together they were blessed with their son Anthony Stilinovich who they adored. She was also blessed with her family, friends and 12 godchildren. They were her pride and joy.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents and her husband. She is survived by her son Anthony, her adored brother John Erickson and sister in law Ethelyn. She is also survived by her brother and sister in law Joe and Linda Stilinovich, sister in laws Clara Winrow and Margaret Baily along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and many very dear friends.
Recitation of the Holy Rosary will be on Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at 6:00 PM followed by visitation until 8:00 PM at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 1375 E Spring Lane, Salt Lake City. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at 11:00 AM, also at St. Vincent's. Interment to follow at Mount Calvary Catholic Cemetery, 4th Ave. & “T” Street, Salt Lake City.
The above was written by Barbara in true Barbara fashion with humility and purpose. But it doesn’t convey the real person. Barbara was extraordinary. She was wise and smart and funny and a natural storyteller. She drew people in with these gifts and formed life long friendships with them. She remembered all the stories about her Italian family (on her mother’s side) and her father’s early childhood struggles. She was someone you could talk to. She had empathy and understanding and shared them freely. In recent years she and her son Anthony could be found each weekend during the summer at the Farmer’s Market in Salt Lake City and Park City, as well as many other annual community events throughout Utah. The two of them started the business selling handmade metal art creations designed by Anthony which Barbara helped merchandise and sell. There are thousands of yards across Utah and the country that are adorned with the special metal art they sold. Their business was created after the pair’s husband and father Tony had died. The business became the center of their lives and helped the mother and son duo take their minds off the loss of Tony. Barbara supported Anthony’s dreams with an enormous amount of love and energy. They were a dynamic duo and there was always a steady stream of customers but an even steadier stream of friends wanting to visit them each week at their booth. It just won’t be the same without seeing Barbara in her camp chair keeping track of sales and inventory at the markets.
When her husband Tony died some of the light went out of Barbara’s life. The two of them were a perfect match. One of the qualities they shared was their kindness and generosity. If they saw someone in need they didn’t hesitate to step in and help and they did it freely and quietly, never looking for praise. Barbara was a longtime supporter of the Carmelite Nuns in Holladay and an annual supporter of the MS Society of Utah in memory of her late cousin John Sanone.
Barbara liked to laugh. She could look at some of the craziness in life and make it funny. She had such a warm laugh, one that we’ll all miss.
So Barbara, please know how special you were and what a difference you made in so many lives. With your passing some light has left each of our lives, but we will treasure your memory and keep you alive in our hearts. Godspeed Barbara.
In Loving Memory
My deepest sympathies to Anthony and Barbara's family. She was the kindest and most loving human being and a dear friend. Barbara's impact on my life and that of my family is beyond explanation. The world lost a beautiful shining light and heaven gained an angel. Barbara is forever in my heart. Anthony we are here for you.
I am so sorry to hear about Barbara's passing! She was such a wonderful woman! My Heart ❤️ goes out to Anthony I know how close he and Barbara were. God bless ��
I'm so sad to learn of Barbara's passing. My son James and I knew her through Park Silly Market. She was such a a joy to be around. I loved being around her. I know how much she adored her son and life. Prayers of comfort and strength to all.
This is such sad news. I'm so sorry for your loss. The world lost an amazing person. Barbara was always such a joy to be around. Her positive energy, kindness and humor will be missed. I remember growing up just a few doors down from their family. She was always so sweet to all of us neighborhood kids. It was always a warm welcome met with goodies and love. She was a favored neighborhood mom. I'm so sorry for your loss Anthony. I know you two had an amazing relationship. One that a mom only dreams of having with a son. You two were so lucky to have each other. Please let Jon or I know if you need anything. I mean that. I know we can't fill her void but we don't live far and are here if you need us.
Words cannot express how sorry I am to hear of the passing of your sweet Mom. You have my deepest heartfelt sympathies Anthony and I've thought of you often this week. Barbara will always be remembered as a warm and kind person and I'm grateful to have known her for so many years. We've enjoyed attending the Park Silly Market every summer and of course the highlight of the day was seeing Barbara and Anthony. I'm going to miss those fun conversations with my dear friend and the market won't be the same without her there. Please know that you're in our thoughts Anthony during this difficult time and may you feel peace and love in your heart when you think of your Mom.
Barb, I will miss your smiling face. It breaks my heart to know I will not see you at the park or boutiques. I'm glad we connected after so many years since jr. High. It was like no time had passed, we laughed and shared memories. I cherish all the metal gifts. Rest in our Lord's arms and may the perpetual light always shine on you my friend. MARTI
Dearest Anthony. Please accept my heartfelt condolences as you mourn the immeasurable loss of your warm and loving Mom. Having first met you both years ago at one of the many craft fairs we were all a part of, she made such a kind impression that will remain imprinted on my heart. Her love and constant reference to you was so endearing. Her obituary is beautiful and shared the light and love that she freely gave to others. It was always so touching to see and to hear the special gift you are to her as her adored son. Her awareness and reference to you during every conversation was ever present. You are and will remain in my thoughts. Sending you and your loved ones so much love.
To Anthony and the Erickson Family: I have posted a picture of Barbara and me on the Erickson's back porch in about 1952. I have many fond memories of Barbara, her brother John, and their family. Rest in peace my good friend. Love, Bill and Marybeth McKendrick
Anthony, it was great to see you last night but the sad news that your mother passed deeply saddened me. She was delightful and a joy. I will miss her warm greeting and laughter each Saturday at the Farmers Market. I watched the video- it demonstrates a life which was hands on and full of love. You are lucky you were the object of that love. Frank
In Loving Memory
