Beloved, adoring, loving, caring, spunky, happy, wise daughter, sister, mother, and friend Elizabeth (Liz) Wagstaff Bawden (1972-2017) passed away on June 3. She was born on August 27, 1972 and raised in Sandy, Utah. Liz sometimes answered to Lizzie Boo, Lizard Lips, Lizard, Elsa Beth, Maahm, and Little Sissy. Liz is survived by 3 treasured children, Gabriella (Gabby) 22; Ryan Sterling 18; and Brett Quayle Bawden 15; Parents: Terry and Abby Ward Wagstaff Midway, Utah; Ex-husband Brooks Bawden Vernal, Utah; Siblings: Wendy (Mark) Funk; Katherine (Mike) Morgan; Steve (Bridgette) Wagstaff; and over 20 talented and wonderful nieces and nephews.
Liz also lived in California; Mesa, Arizona; Vernal, Utah; and Heber, Utah. Liz graduated from Brighton High School, where she was a member of the dance company. She graduated from Arizona State University in accounting, and also received her Master’s Degree in Human Resources from Utah State University, Liz worked many years as an accountant. Most recently she worked at Squire accounting firm in Orem, Utah.
Liz loved her kids more than anything. She loved hanging out with Brett, exploring with Ryan, and chatting with Gabby (her mini-me). She resided in Heber, Utah where her boys attended Wasatch High School. She loved returning to Heber Valley, where she spent sixth grade with Grandma Grace and much of her childhood summertime.
Liz enjoyed training her dogs (even trained Sara to go down the slide), caring for cats (Alex and Baby Kitty), carrying a purse full of emergency gadgets, going to Sun Valley with her family, tap dancing, quilt making, preparing freezer meals, herbal remedies, organizing things, sweet smelling lotion, hockey and football games, Santa skiing, Heber’s farmer’s market, and hanging out with her friends and family.
Her parents won’t forget her unconditional love and caring; her daughter and sons won’t forget her peaceful nature, academic achievements, and love for Disneyland; her siblings won’t forget her spunky personality, eclectic clothing choices, and listening ear; her nieces and nephews won’t forget her kind eyes and laughter; her colleagues won’t forget her wisdom and honesty.
Liz died of complications from blood clots while in Los Angeles traveling for business. Her Heavenly Father has called her home early. We are not ready, but she has gone to be with her loved ones on the other side and feel the love of our Savior and Redeemer Jesus Christ. Oh how we will miss her beautiful spirit.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 17 at 12:00 noon at the Deer Creek Ward, viewing Friday June 16 from 6-8 and one hour before the funeral, in Midway, Utah at 1102 South Center Street, Midway, Utah.