Julie Fikstad
March 15, 1953 - April 10, 2014
To Julie Fikstad's family and friends it seems the sun rose March 15, 1953 and set April 10, 2014.
The sunlight in her heart cared for all the people around her. Her loving light was present in all that she did and all that she was. We are better people – emotionally, physically, and spiritually because of her.
There was a light in her optimism, her warm smile, and her contagious laugh. It was reflected in the way she would dance and sing. A part of her sunlight keeps us warm and safe as we wrap up in the quilts she personalized for us. It spread from her hands to the garden she grew, the bread she baked, and the countless thoughtful, and often healthy, special dinners and treats.
Her light remains in the texts, messages, pictures, and memories that show us how much she cared and how much she loved us. It is in the confidence she gave us by always finding the good in us that we often overlooked. It is here in all of the costumes and dolls she made and in the clothes she sewed, hemmed, and fixed.
Her love shined in the way she cut her family's hair, sometimes carefully placing curlers or weaving French braids and occasionally removing gum. She will always be a part of us in her ability to find the best deals and to find a use for things that others may consider trash. She never failed to express her love and affection, in both her words and actions. She cared for us when we were sick, rubbed our backs and necks when we were sore, and treated all our wounds. She hugged and told us she loved us every chance she got. Her selfless nature and unconditional love became a small part of us.
A part of her sunlight lives on in each grandchild she has helped to bring into this world, lovingly rocked to sleep, read stories to, held hands with, and expressed pride in.
Her sunlight will continue to shine in all the people she cared for as a nurse and in all of the babies she helped get the best start in life possible.
Although her body is no longer with us, her beautiful sunlight will always shine in our hearts and yours.
A wake to celebrate her life will be held on Thursday, April 17th from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City.
In Loving Memory
My sympathies and love go out to all of Julie's family. You were the most important thing for her. Your lives were her life. And now my friend will be with you and me in love and spirit. I will be there on Thurs to visit in person. Julie! I miss you so much. I was going to visit SLC in March and had my own crisis that knocked me down so far .I could barely get out of bed. I thought I would go in June to see you. I wish I had known! You were my best friend for almost 30 years and it breaks my heart we didn't get to say goodbye to each other. I love you, my friend, and you are always in my heart.
Sue Anne sheya
Davis, CA
I knew Julie through the lactation community. I was so sad to hear about the cancer. My condolences in this time of grief.
Elizabeth Smith
Cottonwood Hts, UT
Dear Lynn & Girls, I'm so sorry to hear that Julie has passed on.She was always so nice and friendly to me and she was so good to Margie. She was such a special person. I didn't know her well, but her amazing and unique light will be missed in this world. Much love to all of you. Laurie
Laurie Dunnavant
Salt Lake City, ut
My condolences to all of Julie's loved ones. Although I did not get a chance to get to know Julie well, I did get to interact with her through our shared involvement in the birthing community. She was a bright light and will be so missed. Sending warmth and healing, Angela
Angela G Rhinehart
SLC, UT
I met and worked closely with Julie on the Post Partum floor at Jordan Valley Hospital. I among many other nurses counted on Julie's lactation expertise on many days there on the floor. Her talent was amazing and her patience unwavering. I met with her at the gym some there in Sandy sometimes. She was always positive. Spoke highly of her family and spoke of her love for them and knew they were the most important thing in her life. She was a true friend and showed her friendship to me during one of the hardest times of my life. I am eternally grateful for her example as a nurse and as a friend. I loved her and will miss her very much. She was truly the kind of person You wanted to be more like after getting to know her. I wish more people had a little "Julie" in them. My sincere condolences, Julie
Julie Gillingham
Sugarhouse, Ut
I am so very grateful for the friend I had in Julie. Living across from you this past 25 years was not only a gift but a blessing. Many times Julie's nursing skills came into action and how grateful I am for her expertise, knowledge and giving ways. I will miss the long walks, especially the last month of her life. We would talk about everything and anything and how I will miss those wonderful moments with my walking partner. Over the years, the bond we had will always be a treasure to relive whenever I need my "Julie time". How she loved her family! We talked about that all the time and she'd sparkle inside out whenever they were mentioned. Thank you my friend for your friendship and loads of fun through the years. You are a jewel in my crown of life and I will forever miss you and your special ways. I will remember you always and the gift you were to me. Love always to you and your wonderful family. Cindy Wilhite
Cindy Wilhite
Cottonwood Heights, Ut
My heart goes out to Julie's loved ones. I remember when she spoke of her family there was such joy and love in her voice and in her eyes. I caught a glimpse of the depth of a mothers heart. You are all in my thoughts and heart. Love, Kim
Kim Paturzp
SLC, Ut