Joseph W. Stephenson

On July 10, 2018, at the age of 91, Joe died the way he lived with love, kindness, and humor. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend and will be remembered fondly and missed greatly by all who knew him. Joe was born at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Chicago, Illinois on April 20, 1927 to Joseph Stephenson and Catherine Keegan. His family moved to Los Angeles when he was 13 where he graduated from LA High School. During his twenties and thirties, Joe was a vagabond living and working in New York, San Diego, and Chicago.

It was in Chicago that Joe met his sweetie pie, Francisca, and after a whirlwind romance they were married on November 28, 1964. The day after the wedding they boarded a train headed west to Salt Lake City, Utah. They had four children and moved to Kearns in 1979.  Joe was a professional window washer for over 40 years and had numerous long-term customers until he retired at the age of 82.

The great loves of his life were Francisca, his children and grandchildren, baseball, storytelling, writing, tap dancing, drinking coffee, and eating sweets. Joe never hesitated to tell his family how much they meant to him and how proud he was of them. He was particularly proud that all four of his children, his son-in-law, daughter-in-law, and four grandchildren graduated from the University of Utah. His grandson will attend the U this fall. 

Joe is survived by his wife Francisca; his children Donna (John) Branson, Salt Lake City, Utah; Joe (Jill) Stephenson, Salt Lake City, Utah; Robert Stephenson, Berkeley, California; and Mark (Kristen) Stephenson, Austin, Texas. He is also survived by seven grandchildren Megan, Regan, Anna, Lauren, Eli, Isla, and Will; a niece Kathy; a nephew Billy; and numerous cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Vera; and brother-in-law, Bill Roberts. 

Joe lived into his 90s because of the extraordinary care he received from Francisca. The family would like to thank the neighbors for all their help over the years, especially Mike and Sue Avila. They also appreciate the professional, loving care and support Joe and the family received from the staff of Harmony Hospice, in particular, Alissa, Robin, Becky, Brooke, Tricia, Monique, and Laurie.  

To honor Joe, please consider donating to the charity of your choice. 

Joe will be laid to rest at a private family ceremony at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. In celebration of Joe's life, his family will be hosting a wake Saturday, July 14, 2018 from 4:00 – 6:00 PM at 1093 South 1100 East, Salt Lake City. 

He did it his way!