Carolyn Sue Laaksonen Havard Parker, age 76, passed away on June 17, 2022 at her home in Delta, Utah. She was born on March 19, 1946 in Omaha, Nebraska. She is the eldest of the three children of Elmer Hjalmer and Beulah Josephine White Laaksonen.
When Carolyn was five years old, her mother loaded her into a car, left Nebraska, and began their lives in California. They first lived in Riverside and later moved to Sacramento where she graduated from Luther Burbank High School in 1964. She then attended Sacramento City College and earned her degree as a dental assistant. She began her career as a dental assistant, but was soon put in charge as office manager. In 1987, her experience earned her a position as a Dental Claims Officer. She spent almost 50 years in the dental industry before she retired in 2012.
While attending college, Carolyn met Jim Havard at a USO dance. They were married in Sacramento in 1966. They had two children together. Her years as the wife of an Airforce serviceman, developed in her a deep love and respect for all service men and women, it also lead her to live in many bases, including Okinawa, Japan. They later divorced, but remained friends and maintained a good relationship in taking care of their children.
Carloyn later met Lonnie Gene Parker. She was swept of her feet, and they were soon married in Reno, in 1999. After they both retired, they left California and moved to Delta, Utah. They have shared many wonderful years together.
Carloyn had many skills. She enjoyed sewing, knitting, crocheting, and embroidery. He had a gift in interior design, and made her homes look wonderful. She spent many years as a girl scout leader, master food preserver, and volunteer at the Sutter’s Fort Historic Park in Sacramento, playing a part as a 19th century woman.
Anyone who ever met Carolyn will remember her love of people. She loved to meet new people, wherever life took her; and she was dedicated to her friendships, she kept many lifelong penpals, and when the holidays arrived she made sure to remember all her friends with a Christmas Card. She also gave her care and affection to her many dog and cat companions over the years. She will be deeply missed
Carolyn is survived by her spouse: Lonnie Parker; daughter: Kim (Ken) Rice, Grantsville; son: Patrick (Nucy) Havard, San Antonio, Texas; brother: David (Sherri) Laaksonen; 8 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her sister: Linda Laaksonen.
No services will be held. Condolences may be left at www.nicklemortuary.com
