Lou Vranes
1934 ~ 2007
Lou Vranes died unexpectedly on September 29, 2007 while sleeping peacefully at home.Lou was born in Ephraim, Utah on June 26, 1934. He was the oldest of six children born to John W. Vranes and LuDeen Jensen. Lou attended and played basketball for Jordan High School, where Lou and the Beet Diggers won a State Championship. He played one year of college basketball and then graduated in business from the U of U. While attending the University, Lou met Joan Judkins, who became the love of his life. They were married September 14, 1956 in the Salt Lake Temple. Together they had four wonderful children who brought so much joy to their lives.
Lou was Vice President for Judkins Company, a window covering manufacturer for 28 years. Lou had many talents and hobbies he enjoyed throughout his life. He loved all things mechanical, especially old cars and was known to own up to nine at one time. He had a great passion for nature. The Uintah Mountains were the backdrop for countless hunting and fishing trips that he enjoyed with his family and best buddies. He loved music and was a devout member of the church choir where his handsome bass voice will be missed. Some of Joan and Lou's favorite memories together were avidly following their children's sports careers. One of his admired talents was his loyalty to friends, he has many life long friendships that began in kindergarten 69 years ago.
Perhaps Lou's greatest legacy is one of service. Lou was always available to serve people in his life. His strength, dependability, and vigilant preparedness helped many family, friends and strangers. He and Joan served an intercity mission for the LDS church where he was able to share his knowledge and talents with others.
However, the greatest example of Lou's willingness to serve came through his years of loving and devoted care of his wife, Joan, as she suffered the effects of a debilitating disease that took her life four months ago. It was during this time, that Lou's gentle nature and selflessness was magnified, impacting everyone around them. Lou was unassuming and understated yet his presence was a powerful one felt by all.
Lou was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan Judkins Vranes; his parents John and LuDeen Vranes; his sister Elizabeth Vee Vranes; and his dearest friend and brother-in-law Barry Judkins. He is survived by his children, Danny Vranes (Angie), Vicki Neeleman (David), Shauna Bennee (Peter), John "Hootie" Vranes (Kelly); his siblings, Val Vranes (Mary), Byron Vranes (Karen),
Myrna Christensen (Jim), Randy Vranes (LeAnn); 28 grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 12 noon, Thursday October 4, 2007, at the Mount Olympus Ward, 4125 South Adonis Dr. (3930 E), Salt Lake City, Utah. Friends and family may call between 10:45 a.m.-11:45 a.m. at the church prior to the funeral service. A viewing will be held between 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 3, at Mountain View Memorial, 3115 E. Bengal Blvd (7800 S.). Interment at Mountain View Memorial.