Verlene Tanner

Verlene Winkel Tanner

1934-2022

Verlene, 88, passed away peacefully on March 17th, 2022 surrounded by her family. Born on January 12, 1934 in Logan Utah to Anton & Clella Winkel, she was the second of seven children. Verlene was married to Noel S. Tanner in the Idaho Falls Idaho Temple in May 1962 and later divorced. Together they had four children, Lyneille Tanner, Tamera Clegg (Rick), Todd Tanner (Ali) and Leesie Olsen (Rich). In addition, she selflessly raised her eldest grandchild Lacey Christensen Gibbens (Shane).

Despite our mother growing up as a shy child, she blossomed into an entertainer. She was always ready to dress up and put on a show for anyone at any time. “Laughter is the best medicine”, was something she lived by and taught us all. Even on her last day, she made sure the family was able to make light of the circumstances and laugh together through the sorrow. We will forever be grateful for the time we had, the lessons we learned and the legacy that will live on because of her graciousness.

Verlene dedicated her life to helping others, no matter how much or how little she had herself. Her acts of service and kindness were given without the expectation of something in return. She was the light of our life and the shoulder we all needed, whether we knew it or not.

She is survived by her 3 children, 8 grandchildren, Lacey Christensen Gibbens (Shane), Myranda Olsen, Abbey Olsen, Ty Tanner, Thayne Tanner, Nic Olsen, Tally Tanner and Lilly Olsen, 2 great-grandchildren Keigan Johns and Brightyn Johns. As well her siblings, Cleve Winkel (Vera), Gary Winkel (Renee), Bob Winkel (Dianne), Ken Winkel (Liz), Toni Handy (David) and Ron Winkel (Vickie). Preceded by her parents and eldest daughter, Lyneille, who were likely waiting with open arms and of course, her tap shoes.

Celebration services will be held at Sundberg-Olpin Mortuary 495 South State Street, Orem, UT 84058.  A public viewing will be held on Thursday, March 24th from 6:00-8:00 pm & Friday, March 25th from 9:30-10:30 am. Funeral services will begin on Friday, March 25th at 11:00 am. Interment will follow at the Provo Cemetery.

Condolences for the family may be expressed on this page.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you dedicate your personal time to visit an elderly community. The greatest gift you can give someone is your time, just like Verlene gave to all of us.

For those unable to attend the services you may view them HERE

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