LaVar Leonard Sorensen, 77, passed away peacefully from natural causes Sept. 10, 2002.
He was born April 20, 1925, in Smithfield, UT to Martha and Thomas L. Sorensen
He is now reunited with his parents and beloved wife, Mary, to whom he was married in the Logan LDS Temple on March 24, 1947. LaVar was a graduate of North Cache High School and received a B.S. and Masters degree from the University of Utah, as well as a Ph.D. from Oregon State University. He was an active member of the Valley View Tenth Ward of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Among many Church callings, he served as a member of the Bishopric, Scoutmaster, Executive Secretary, and High Councilor. He served in the Navy during World War II as a medic, and was stationed at the Naval Hospital in Honolulu, Hawaii.
LaVar was affectionately known as "Doc" to hundreds of South High School alumni. He served as principal of South High from 1975 until it closed its doors in 1988. He was an avid fan of all things pertaining to South High, and he truly loved the students and community surrounding the school. He loved learning, and his professional career was that of an educator - teacher and administrator - with the Salt Lake City School District. It was the perfect career for him as he loved young people and they loved him.
LaVar enjoyed living in the Salt Lake area and was involved with the community. He was a member of the Salt Lake Lions Club, serving one year as the president. He was a scouter and had a great love for the scouting program. He organized countless week-long scout camps where his boys not only earned merit badges, but learned to love and respect the outdoors. Most recently he served as a docent for the Jr. Science Academy at the University of Utah's Museum of Natural History.
LaVar loved family gatherings, traveling, and University of Utah sports. After his beloved wife, Mary, passed away in 1987 he enjoyed get-togethers with his dear friends whom he lovingly referred to as his "medicare group." LaVar was an optimist who loved life and lived it fully and joyously. He'll always be remembered for his big heart, friendly smile, and quick wit. His personality and outlook on life will be carried forward through his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He is survived by his four children: Martha (Reed) Richards, Ogden;
Richard (Flori) Sorensen, Salt Lake; Thomas (Debbie) Sorensen, Salt Lake; Michael (Linda) Sorensen, Bountiful; 16 grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be at the Valley View Tenth Ward, 2000 East 3900 South at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, September 14. Friends may call at the Wasatch Lawn Mortuary, 3401 South Highland Drive 6-8 p.m. on Fri., Sept. 13 and Saturday at the Ward one hour prior to services. Interment, Smithfield City Cemetery at 1:30 p.m.
The family thanks the staff of the Highland Care Center for the loving care extended to LaVar during his short stay with them.