Linda Lee Baker Wahlen Obituary (1947 - 2021)

“Unforgettable, in every way. And forevermore, that’s how you’ll stay.” The spark we know as Linda was ignited on May 17, 1947, with the help of her parents, Jack and Bonnie Lee Baker. The oldest of four children, two brothers and a cherished baby sister, Linda grew up in Richfield and Pocatello, Idaho. She especially loved recalling stories of her teenage years and hijinx with her wonderful group of friends at both Pocatello and Richfield High Schools. After moving to the Salt Lake City area as a young adult, Linda met her future husband of 52 years, Dennis Wahlen. Together, they built a life in the valley, settling as longtime residents of the West Jordan/Taylorsville area. Linda frequently expressed gratitude for her caring and supportive neighbors, and for them, her family is also especially thankful. Linda leaves behind two daughters and a much-beloved son-in-law. She will also be missed by a furry grandson, Petey. It would, however, be remiss not to say Linda was an honorary mom and grandma to dozens of children she cared for at the in-home daycare she kept for over 20 years. She enjoyed lifelong relationships with many of “the kids”, having cared for them as infants and staying in contact as they’ve grown into adulthood. Even in her final days, she spoke of her love for her “precious babies”. A lifelong career woman, Linda was known as a dedicated employee who was much loved by her coworkers. Her most fulfilling employment included Head Start, where she loved working closely with children and their families; The University of Utah Medical Center; and Huntsman Cancer Hospital. She worked at Huntsman, in Nutritional Care Services, into her 70s. She spoke often of her dear coworkers at Huntsman, and how she felt part of a fun, special team. She was regularly told by patients and families receiving care at Huntsman that her positive attitude and good humor brightened their difficult days. Linda was a beautiful woman, who had many joys in life. She loved music, especially her favorite artist, Vince Gill. She was an avid sports fan and enjoyed watching a good suspense thriller or smart romantic comedy. She was an impeccable hostess and an excellent, creative cook. Her quick-witted sense of humor, strength, and stubbornness are legendary. She was a fighter, and once she set her mind to something, it was as good as done. Linda was much loved and adored by her family and those who knew her well. She will be deeply missed. Linda departed on April 9, 2021, leaving the worlds of all who know her a little less sparkly. She is survived by husband Dennis Wahlen, daughter Wendi (Stuart) Melling, daughter Holli Wahlen, brother Ronald (Sharon Ballin, deceased) Baker, brother David Baker, sister Terri (Dave) Waters, sister-in-law Patricia Wack, and many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, and her parents-in-law Wallace and Lucille Wahlen. Linda requested no services. In accordance with Linda’s final wishes, please consider a donation in her memory to patient care through The Huntsman Cancer Foundation. https://hope.huntsmancancer.org/diy/linda-wahlen-memorial