Retired teacher, devoted mother, avid dog lover, and behind-the-steering-wheel music conductor Laura Lee Whiting Middleton passed away peacefully on September 19, 2022 at the age of 82. She was ready to join her son, Clint Whiting, who preceded her in death in 2018. Laura is survived by her son Bret Whiting and daughter Melanie Santiago-Mosier, and by her four grandchildren Chelsea, Derek, Sean, and Jacob. Laura was born on January 9, 1940 in Roosevelt, Utah to Durell and Frances "Pat" Fredrickson. She was the fifth of seven children.
Laura was a dedicated and loving mother, and she did everything she could to provide for her family's well-being. There were times when that meant holding down three jobs, simultaneously, to make ends meet. But even though money was scarce sometimes, she always found a way to provide what her family needed, including finding ways to have fun together. There was never a shortage of humor and whimsy.
Laura loved teaching so much that she did it for almost 40 years. She adored her students and they adored her right back. She always encouraged them to do their best and aim higher. Nothing made her happier than when a former student would run up to her, give her a big hug, and thank her for her encouragement and help. That happened more often than you might think.
She loved dogs. All the dogs. Little dogs and big dogs. It was rare for Laura to be without a loyal canine companion. She knew that Prince, Queenie, Maggie, Curley, Roamey, Max, and other friends would be waiting for her to join them, and she's awash in doggy cuddles now.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, September 27, 2022 at 1:00 pm. The service will be held at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park and Mortuary, 3401 S. Highland Drive, Salt Lake City.
