Laurie Criswell Favero

                                                                                       Anatomy of a Woman 

The central figure in her immediate family. Laurie was a pillar of stability and strength. Pete, Silvio, and Domenic’s lives revolved around hers. She provided cohesiveness which perpetuated an atmosphere of belonging and we-ness. Selflessly she set aside her own aspirations so Pete might freely pursue his. A source of comfort, this sentient being was quick to utter words of encouragement and an honest, easy to understand opinion from her unique perspective with her family’s well-being in mind. Laurie was whimsical, a key aspect of her charming personality. It was commonplace for her to inject a little levity into the ongoings of everyday life in her cute, innocent way. Spontaneous giggles ensued, distinctly feminine, exclusively Laurie’s. This complex woman with an unpretentious and easy-going nature unified her family… “Ties that bind.” 

As a mother, Laurie was imbued with innate ability and maternal instincts which put her in a favorable position from the get-go. Parenting was a different matter; she acquired those skills on the fly. The stubbornly tenacious side of Laurie’s personality served her well in this arena. With a child in womb, she enrolled in “The Young Mother’s Program” and earned a high school diploma. The curriculum featured classes in parenting, she was attentive. Early on, Laurie created a nurturing environment with an influential, and supportive assistance from Pete. In a pervading atmosphere of love, Silvio and Domenic not only strived but also thrived, forever enriched by the powerful influences of their upbringing. The loving mother and ever watchful parent, her methods were effective. They withstand the test of time. Laurie might smile shyly for the unanticipated kudos!!

In the all-important role of stay-at-home mom, Laurie remained steadfast. What happened? She decided to stretch her boundaries beyond life at home… actively sought employment, was offered, and accepted a position with Weber Human Services. One of her key responsibilities was to call on the community’s elderly population as a Program Manager for the Caregiver Program. Laurie visited with seniors in the community to provide resources to help ease the burden of “Caregiving.”  She took the program’s mission to heart. This darling lady with gentleness and warmth assisted this elderly, homebound group of people in hope of easing their suffering. For Laurie it was a time of self-discovery, of liberation. Pleasantly surprised by newfound talent, Laurie far exceeded her own personal expectations in the work-a-day world. Those inhibiting boundaries of house and home were forever altered

“Super Star Grandmother” – Laurie looked upon her grandchildren with fascination and wonder. She cherished every precious moment spent with them. At every opportunity she and Pete invited them for sleepovers and were rewarded with the innocent spontaneity of these impressionable tykes. These occasions were memorable. Due to her acute condition, her emotional state was fragile. Haunted by thoughts of missing their ongoing development, subsequent achievements, awards, and family celebrations, she openly wept. Our dear Laurie will be forever remembered by loved ones and especially her precious grandchildren, Declan, Katya, Davin, Mataeo, and Giada. 

“In search of my mother’s garden, I found my own.” This quote calls to mind the beauty of Laurie and her exquisite journey. A full life replete with unexpected twists and turns, good times and tough times, hardship and prosperity, setbacks, and successes…. 

We would like to thank Laurie’s “Community of Caring.”  Dr Carabine, Dr Hansen, and staff, particularly Andy, Laura, Chris, and Taylor. Dr Belisario Arango, whose compassion helped restore our faith in the field of Oncology. His staff of course. Dr Wayment and Dr Fisher. Shasta, Theresa, Stefanie, Nate, James, and Amber of Envision Hospice. Finally, we would like to thank our family for their love and support through the years. The loneliness of our grief is buffered by the companionship of family.  

Peter, Silvio and Heidi, Domenic, and Emma, would like you to join them for a celebration in honor of our special woman on Sunday June 11th, from 6:00 – 8:30 PM at Oakridge Country Club in Kaysville.