Karolyn Leah (Webb) Pendleton's Obituary
Karolyn Leah (Webb) Pendleton
December 20, 1943 – August 25, 2025
Karolyn Leah Pendleton, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, returned to her heavenly home after a life of faith, service, and love.
She was born on December 20, 1943, to Walter Kemmis Webb and Leah Victoria Swenson in Spanish Fork, Utah.
Karolyn had fond memories of her childhood, but loss and loneliness followed with the passing of both her parents while she was a young adult. Karolyn was blessed with a large and loving extended family. She built lifelong friendships and cherished memories with her dear cousins. She will forever be grateful to the Wilsons for welcoming her into their family and loving her, and future children, as their own.
A proud graduate of Spanish Fork High School, Karolyn was well-loved by her classmates and known for her bubbly spirit and many talents. She kept herself busy with extracurricular activities. She was the lead in many school operas and enjoyed cheerleading. Like her mother, she was a gifted pianist and singer. Her love for music remained a lifelong joy.
Karolyn met Gary Popovich, while living in San Francisco, but her heart was always in Spanish Fork. Together, they moved back to her hometown and married. They built their dream home in Utah (with their own hands) and filled it with love as they welcomed five children into their family.
She was a woman of many skills: an exceptional cook, gardener, and talented seamstress. But more than anything, Karolyn’s favorite titles were “Mom” and “Nana”. She made countless sacrifices in order to stay at home and raise her children on her own.
After her divorce to Gary, Karolyn reunited with and married her high school sweetheart, Steven Pendleton, who had never stopped loving her. Together they enjoyed gardening, traveling, game nights with friends and family, and welcoming grandchildren.
Her grandchildren were the light of her life and brought her endless joy. She was deeply proud of each one of them and never missed an opportunity to let everyone know it. No matter how busy she was, she always made time to show them love. Birthdays were especially important to her. She never missed one. Each child looked forward to their birthday cards with a crisp two-dollar bill tucked inside.
A devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she served in many capacities. She carried with her a deep testimony and unwavering faith, guiding her life with service and devotion to her Savior, Jesus Christ. She and Steven were called to serve as senior missionaries at Temple Square. She loved this time in her life and always enjoyed the live church performances.
Karolyn’s last days were filled with calls and visits from those she loved most. We are comforted in knowing that she felt cherished in her final days. She passed away peacefully in her home, surrounded by her children.
Karolyn leaves behind a legacy of kindness and service. Her life was a testament to overcoming hardships while helping those less fortunate.
She is preceded in death by her husband, William Steven Pendleton; her parents, Walter Kemmis and Leah Webb; siblings, Alan, Paul, Richard, and Reed Webb, and grandson, Ethan. She is survived by her children Nathan (Heather), Justin (Heidi), Shannon (Colby), Kiersten (Nathan), Kathryn (Justin); 9 grandsons and 11 granddaughters.
She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, September 6th at 11:00 a.m. at 5901 S 4000 W, Taylorsville, UT 84129. A viewing will proceed the service at 10:00 a.m. She will be laid to rest at Spanish Fork Cemetery following the service.
For those who wish, flowers may be delivered to the LDS church listed above from 9-9:45 a.m. on September 6th.
What’s your fondest memory of Karolyn?
What’s a lesson you learned from Karolyn?
Share a story where Karolyn's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Karolyn you’ll never forget.
How did Karolyn make you smile?
