Mercedes Vasquez Artiaga Obituary (1929 - 2013)

Mercedes Vasquez Artiaga (83) of Salt Lake City, Utah passed away peacefully in her bed on Wednesday April 17, 2013. She is back in the arms of her loving Savior, whom she lived her life serving. Mercedes was born on September 24, 1929 in El Salvador to Rosa Artiaga and Sebastian Vasquez. Her mother died when Mercedes was six years old and she became an orphan. She attended a catholic school for girls where she grew to love sewing, embroidery, and singing; these talents became an integral part of her life and career. She became a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in 1976 and was a devoted member. She found joy in singing in the ward choir and attended the temple often. In 1982, Mercedes moved to California where she worked as a nanny for many years and later moved to Salt Lake City, UT to be closer to her children. All who knew her remember her as a hard working, loyal, and compassionate woman. Mercedes is survived by her children: Miguel "Mario" A, Vasquez (Mila), of San Salvador, El Salvador; Carlos E. Vasquez (Carmen), of South Jordan, Utah; Vilma Vasquez Nye (Dorian), of Murray, Utah; and Liana Vasquez, of Salt Lake City, Utah. She was also blessed with eight grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren. A viewing will be held at Jenkin-Soffe Mortuary at 4760 South State St. on Monday, April 22, 2013 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. and the funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m. at the LDS chapel on 3219 South and 300 West.