Mr. President, I stand to address this body to honor the life of one of Utah’s great citizens, a good friend of mine, former Utah Governor Norman Bangerter who announced on Saturday that his beloved wife of 58 years had passed away after a long-time battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Colleen Monson Bangerter having been born in 1935 was the mother of six children, the mother also of one foster son, and, in many respects, was the friend to all of Utah’s three million residents.

She served faithfully in many capacities including as PTA president and other offices within the PTA. She also served faithfully in a variety of positions as a member of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Just a few years ago, she and her husband, former Governor Bangerter presided over the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints mission in South Africa. They worked hand in hand in raising their children, in running the Governor’s campaigns and in running the state throughout his time as Governor , which wasn’t an easy time for our state.

During Governor Bangerter’s two terms in office, the state faced financial difficulties, flooding challenges, and the Bangerters served the conditions well, serving as standing examples for all the citizens of Utah for what it means to rise to the challenge of adversity.

Colleen Bangerter had many friends in many corners. And she had many talents, including the fact she was the state hopscotch champion in Utah in 1947. There are not many first ladies who can claim that distinction and she definitely did.  She was the recipient of the highest award granted by the Boy Scouts of America, which she received a few years ago.

But of all the honors, including the honors that went along with being the First Lady of the state of Utah and serving with someone who in my opinion was one of the great governors ever to serve our state, her greatest honor, her greatest prize was that of her family. She loved being a mother, loved each of her six children, their 30 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren.

Today, we as Utahans mourn the loss of this great citizen of our state. We mourn the loss of this friend and our thoughts and our prayers go out to former Governor Bangerter and his family.