Julia Workman

Julia DeRose Workman

Julia, loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 22, 2015 at the age of 93.  She was born in Ophir, Utah on June 5, 1921 to Alfred DeRose and Rhoda Whitlock, and was raised in Ophir and Stockton, Utah where she had many fond memories of family and friends.  Her fondest memories growing up were those she spent on the Vario Ranch in Ophir, with her aunt Etta, uncle Patsy, and cousins who were more like brothers and sisters to her.

She married Leonard Nephi Workman, and together raised six children.  Julia lived a long life loving and serving her family.  She was no stranger to hard work and sacrifice when it came to her children.  Julia enjoyed working in the yard, playing slots in Wendover with her sisters Kathleen and Sybil, and shopping. Julia was happiest when she was cooking for her family.  Her spaghetti, rigatoni and meatball dinners were everyone’s favorite.  Her children and grandchildren were most precious to her and she loved them all dearly.  Julia was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and while not active, she enjoyed visits from members of her ward.  

She retired from Tooele Army Depot after 18 years of service.  She was loved and admired by all who knew her, and will be remembered for her candidness (sometimes colorful), wit, laughter and caring, but most of all, by the love she gave so freely and unconditionally. She leaves a great legacy and memories of her will be cherished.

Julia is survived by her children Judy (John) Martinez of Tooele, Mel (Debbie) Workman of South Jordan, John Workman of Salt Lake City, Frank (Tina) Workman of Tooele, and Julie Workman of Tooele; daughter-in-law Lana (Jim) Workman; sister Kathleen Gressman of Tooele; as well as 22 grandchildren; 45 great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.  Preceded in death by her husband Leonard; son Jim; parents; sisters Louise Ginter, Josephine Rose, Sybil Keyes; brother Bob Pulli; son-in-law John Martinez; great granddaughter Makenzie Workman; and great grandson Jesse Workman.

Mom chose not to have a public service.  Her family will gather for a celebration of her life on Friday, May 15^th.  Dedication of her burial site will be open to family and friends the following day on Saturday, May 16^th at 11:00 AM at the Tooele City Cemetery.

We wish to thank the caregivers at Rocky Mountain Care and Hospice and Dr. Jay Spector in Tooele for their care and love of mom, and her neighbors who have been so kind to her over the years.