Joan Barber Crus

Our devoted mom, grandmother and great-grandmother, left this life for another on November 25^th, 2021. She was born on January 1^st, 1931, to Russell O. Barber and Gertrude M. Barber in Salt Lake City, Utah.   She had a happy childhood and spoke fondly of her memories of time spent with extended family.  Her father and uncles sang in a Barbershop Quartet and her mother played the piano, instilling her love of music at an early age. 

Joan attended Carbon High School and College.  She loved to dance, both tap and ballet.  She was a member of the Pep Club and Drama Club, playing the lead role in musicals.  She cherished her time at Carbon, where she met her dear and lifelong friend, Phyllis Sims.   After graduating in 1949, she went on to study at the University of Utah.  To help with her family’s finances, she cut short her education and took a full-time job with the telephone company. She worked there for several years until she met the love of her life, Anthony “Jack” Crus.  Jack was known to race home from work to watch her singing on the local “Talent Showcase” program.  They were married on May 12, 1955 and enjoyed 57 years together until Jack’s death in 2012.

Joan and Jack raised two children at their home in Holladay Utah, where they lived for 26 years. Neighbors became dear lifetime friends.  They made Sandy their home in 1985 where they lived for 16 years before returning to Holladay.  Family meant everything to her.  She was a loving mother, daughter and wife. She was active in the PTA, neighborhood charitable drives and volunteered as a “Pink Lady” caring for infants at Holy Cross Hospital.

In her prime, Joan loved gardening and had the most beautiful yard on the block.  She enjoyed tennis, needlepoint and a good book.  She was always up for a shopping trip and lunch.  Joan loved the arts and music, attending many cultural events throughout her life.  She was a master at hosting holidays and parties for family and friends.  Joan and Jack were fortunate to have traveled many places but especially enjoyed staying at their condominium in Scottsdale AZ.  Many fond memories were made there with family and friends.  Joan and Jack were avid sports fans, holding season tickets to both University of Utah and Utah Jazz games for years. 

Joan was a loving, caring person who held great compassion and empathy for those less fortunate than herself.  She had a generous heart.  Joan held her grandchildren dear and was the best Nana anyone could ask for.  She possessed a feisty spirit, a sassy hair style, and had a grand sense of humor.  She will be dearly missed. 

Joan is survived by son Michael Crus (Francie) and daughter Lisa Draxler (Mark), four grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Jay Barber, and husband Jack.  Our family wishes to express appreciation to Brio Hospice for all their care and kindness.  In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice.  

A celebration of life will be on Friday, December 10, 2021, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 S 900 E, Salt Lake City, Utah.  Joan’s wish is to be laid to rest privately at the Salt Lake City Cemetery.