My guardian angels came, called my name and took me by the hand on November 4, 2025.
Do believe I’ll never leave you; Always I’ll be in your heart.
Death might take my presence from you, yet we’ll never be apart.
On a cold January night a special daughter came to warm the hearts of her parents. JoAnne Plaga Bowns was born January 13, 1935 to Eugene and Thelma Gunderson Plaga.
My early years are my fondest memories. I was born in Helper, Utah. I went to Carbon High School and graduated in 1953. Two years of college followed at Carbon Junior College graduating in 1955. I received my graduate degree from Utah State University in 1957 and began a career in teaching at Rose Park Elementary.
On June 14, 1958 I married my long time childhood sweetheart, Terry Bowns. We celebrated our 67th wedding anniversary on June 14, 2025. They said “It wouldn’t last”.
I taught in Salt Lake and Granite school districts for 28 years. Retiring in 1995 to begin an exciting new experience in life.
I enjoyed working in the yard with my beautiful garden, fishing, camping, trips to Mesquite and Wendover but most of all spending time with my family and friends.
Survived by my soulmate and love of my life Terry. One special son Gary Bowns (I love you). My forever best friend Tracy. One granddaughter and the blessing we prayed for Jenna Lynn Albretsen (Dallas Albretsen). She brought us 3 great grandchildren Candin, Sage, and EmJay who I will forever be their Nana.
I was blessed with 2 bonus grandchildren Jordon and Amya who brought us 4 additional great grandchildren.
Preceded in death by her mother and father, sister, Betty Mascaro, brothers Gene and Happy Plaga, and son Jeff Bowns who owes her a long awaited hug.
I tried in my life to be a friend to all. To be there for them if they needed me for any reason.
I will miss you all so much but will be waiting for you all on the other side with my arms ready to embrace you.
To my husband and family,
Love JoAnne
A celebration of her life will be on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 from 6:00pm-8:00pm at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. JoAnne will be laid to rest in Helper, UT at the Mountain View Cemetery on Wednesday November 12, 2025.
JoAnne was a special spirit whose love, silliness, and laughter touched the hearts of all those who had the blessing of having contact with her.
