January 2, 1934 ~ August 7, 2010

Ada Ruth (Funk) Fannin, 76, of Pleasant Grove, Utah, passed away August 7, 2010, after a courageous seven years with breast cancer.

Ada was born in Sterling, Utah, the 11^th of 13 children.  Some of her favorite stories of childhood involved killing snakes and playing Monopoly with her sister while out helping with the cattle.  She was involved with music and theater productions in Sterling.

After graduating from high school, Ada went to LDS Business College in Salt Lake City, where she was Student Body Vice President.  Also in Utah, Ada was an Arthur Murray Dance Instructor. 

Ada and one of her friends then decided to move to Los Angeles, where Ada worked at a bank.  It was in LA where Ada met Harold Fannin on a blind date.  They were married several months later.

Since Harold was in the military, they moved several times within the U.S. and in Europe before settling in Anchorage, Alaska, in 1971.

Along the way a son and two daughters were born.  Ada enjoyed being a mother and a homemaker.  She was especially talented at creating beauty in the home and organizing family excursions that provided wonderful memories.  Her love of learning was an inspiration to her children, each of them earning college degrees.

Ada was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, holding many positions at church throughout her life.  She also was in community and church musical productions over the years.

Ada and Harold relocated to the Lower ’48 in 2003.  Ada is now reunited with her eternal companion, Harold, who passed away November 2009.

Ada is survived by her children, Chuck (Lisa) of Germany, Garnet (Mike) of Oregon, and Marina of  Utah, by five grandchildren, Tiffany (Jesse), Kenny, Travis (Jessica), Krystal, and Sarah, and by six great grandchildren, Keegan, Kinley, Karson, Logan, Natalie, and Adina.

Funeral services are 2 pm Saturday, August 14, at Olpin Family Mortuary, 494 South 300 East in Pleasant Grove, Utah, with Pleasant Grove 7^th Ward assisting.  The viewing will be at 1 pm before the service.  Condolences may be sent to the family at www.olpinmortuary.com.

Condolences (7)

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Kay "Christison" Ketterling said:

My thoughts are with the whole family. Uncle Alvin's life was full of what he loved most, his children, grand children, great grand children and the BEST WIFE you could possibly imagine. He will be missed for sure. Love you all! Kay & family

August 11, 2010

Dorothy Hassler said:

I met Ada when she first came to our hospital for her mammogram and I have worked with her since that time. Both Ada and Harold were always so kind and always asking how I was doing even though they both had their own personal health trials. Ada was a fine example of positive energy and she handled her cancer with dignity. It was a privilege to know her.

August 11, 2010

Gayle White said:

I did not have the pleasure of meeting Mrs. Fannin, however, I did work with her son, Chuck, at Bartlett High School in Anchorage Alaska in the late 1990's. I know from the way he had spoken about her then how much she was loved and what a great person she was. She also raised a great son and he went on to be a wonderful friend, boss, husband to Lisa and father to his children. I know she is going to be greatly missed by her children, grandchildren, friends and other family members. I wish I could have known her! My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

August 11, 2010

Glori Hodge Smith said:

I knew "Sister Fannin" many years ago in Anchorage, Alaska. I remember her with gratitude as one of the very few adults that had kind and encouraging words for me when I was preparing to get married. Ken and I had decided to marry very young, but rather than join the throngs of naysayers she told me that she knew we could make it work. (By the way, I now understand all the other remarks, but Sister Fannin was right--we have been married for 35 years!) I was thrilled to see Sister Fannin here in Utah several years ago and tell her "thank you" myself. She was a lovely lady and will always hold a special place in my heart. My condolences go to Chuck, Garnet, and Marina; I remember you all fondly.

August 15, 2010

Roy and Martha Adkins said:

We know that flowers don't replace the loved one, but certainly helps us get through it, as we remember our cherished memories of the lives that were shared. We will always remember the laughter with the stories they told. R R Adkins

August 17, 2010

Vikki Solberg said:

Garnet and family. I am sorry to hear of your loss. Your mom was always kind and gentle and seemed genuinely happy whenever and wherever we saw each other. I am glad I had the opportunity to know her Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Sincerely Vikki and Family

August 18, 2010

Dr. Nicole Clark said:

I was so sorry to hear of Ada's passing. She was always a bright spot on my schedule when she came in for a visit to the office. I will truely miss taking care of her! My thoughts are with you Dr. Clark

August 18, 2010