Javier Nicasio Saenz, PhD

October 16, 1933 - January 6, 2015

Dr. Javier Nicasio Saenz completed his journey on this earth on January 6, 2015 due to complications from pneumonia.

He was born on October 16, 1933 in Panama City, The Republic of Panama to Nicasio and Dora Saenz. He was the oldest of five children. After graduating from Instituto Nacional de Panama. He did his undergraduate education in South Dakota at Dakota Wesleyan. He completed his PhD in Social Work and Psychology at the University of Utah.

Javier worked for the community mental health system for 40 years. Since 1958 he was involved with supporting minority healthcare and was recognized nationally as well as locally for his contributions including The Spanish Speaking Health and Mental Health Task Force Training Program he developed. He was recognized by the Carter administration as Psychologist of the Year for Utah. He was also recognized as Alumni of the Year at Dakota Weslyan University in 2003 for his outstanding achievements. Javier enjoyed people. He loved teaching, conversing and telling jokes. He also loved music and singing. His family was especially important to him.

Survived by his wife Karol; children Linda (Alan) Saenz Magnuson, Joshua (Stacey) Saenz; stepchildren Tom (Kristine) Pike, Suzanne Pike Coleman; 13 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; sisters Luz, Dora and Maria. Preceded in death by brother Rafael and his parents.

Celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 10th from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Complementary valet parking will be provided on the north side of the building.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the charity of choice.

In Loving Memory

Send Your Condolences

I will truly miss Javier. Everything about him. His crazy laugh, sense of humor, his infectious smile, his little quirky sayings, his generosity, his intellectual conversations, and seeing him on his balcony greeting me and waving. Such a dear sweet man and a wonderful neighbor. Party on Jav! Love and miss you. Sharon

Sharon Peake

Holladay, UT

El primer amigo incondicional que tuve cuando llegué por vez primera. El gran amigo de Jorge al que siempre lo apoyaste en sus campa��as y en sus proyectos. Como olvidar las tertulias en tu casa, la rica comida, la camaraderiam tu sentido de humor que nunca perdiste, el cari��o. Te extra��aremos amigo. Vaya con Dios. Hay co��o, que tristes y solos nos quedamos los vivos!

Maritza Arce-Larreta

Salt Lake City, Ut

Dear Carol, Suzanne and the rest if the family, I am saddened to learn of Javier's death. I have many happy memories of working and partying with Javier. He taught me how to drink out of a boda bag. Sending lots of hugs wishes that you will be comforted by happy memories.

Lee McPharlin

Salt Lake City, ut

My sympathy to all the family and friends of Javier. I have known his sister, Maria, since my stay in Panama for 5 years in the 70's. From knowing her, and reading about him, I would say he was a very loving, energetic and special person. I know he will be so missed.

Judith Keegan

Montgomery, Al

I met Dr. Saenz about 30 years ago. I was at a point in my life where I was confused and depressed. I spent several months visiting with him and I can say his wisdom and counsel helped turn my life around. Even today his pearls of wisdom are still relevant to me. I was saddened to learn of his passing. He will be missed.

Edward Golub

MIDVALE, UT

Dear Karol and Family My condolences to you and the family. It is very hard to take. I will miss a good friend and advisor to the community. Lucy O. Valerio

Lucy O. Valerio

Ogden,, Ut

My Dear Carol I am so sorry to see you lose Javier. You both came into my life when I needed direction. I owe my success to you both. Javier was truly a motivator. I dearly loved his personality. I am saddened knowing his essence no longer exists in this world of mundane.

Alice Elder

Stansbury Park, UT

Javier was a friend to me and my family for many years that we lived in SLC and a colleague of David's. He was always welcoming, loving and LOTS of fun to be with. An amazing man of many accomplishments ... he will be remembered lovingly. Our heartfelt condolences to his family and especially Josh and Linda, who we remember as young adults. THINKING OF YOU.

Susan Israel Massey

Richmond, vi

Dear Karol, I am sorry to learn of Javier's passing, ad regret that I was not aware until this evening. I have always enjoyed my association with Javier, and remember many fun parties and gatherings. My best wishes to you and the family. I know that he was your soul mate and will be greatly missed.

Nancy Christensen

Holladay, Ut

Javier participated in our UPA Healing the Great Divide project almost from the beginning over 11 years ago. He was a stalwart member of our monthly dialogue group and brought wisdom, compassion, genuine human engagement, a delightful picaresque wit and a passionate commitment to understanding and helping his fellow man. We all count him as a friend and will miss him very much. Our condolences to you, Mrs. Saenz, and to the rest of your family.

Stephen Morris

Salt Lake City, UT

Karol, I am so sorry for your loss. Javier was such a sweet and caring man who made those around him feel special. I have fond memories of the two of you when I lived in Utah and we worked together on community events. His will be greatly missed. May God bless and comfort you during this difficult time.

Jeanette Giron

Federal Way, WA

Javier and Carol. I just heard the news about the loss of this great man and I am deeply saddened He is a good friend and did such good for our community you will be deeply missed I'm so sorry I missed your service Rest in peace Javier. Take care Carol

Lucy Valdez

Salt Lake City, ut

Lucy Valdez

Salt Lake City, ut

Karol, ver sorry for your loss. Javier was a good friend here on earth but he is in Heaven now. Prayers with you and your family..

DAvid & Seleny Crosby

South Jordan, UT

In Loving Memory

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