Maria Teresa Maestas' Obituary
Maria Teresa Maestas, our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and dearest friend passed away peacefully on the fall evening of October 1, 2017 at her home in Salt Lake City, surrounded by her family just the way she wanted.\r\nShe was born in Pátzcuaro Michoacán, Mexico on October 11, 1938 to José Luis Piñón and Petra Carlota Pérez. She spent her early years living in Pátzcuaro before moving to Leon Guanajuato, Mexico where she met and married her husband of 45 years Robert Maestas in 1964. They returned to Robert's hometown of Salt Lake City, Utah where they settled and were blessed with the addition of a son, Robert Frank and daughter Betty Alicia. She went on to attend Westminster College graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1980 then moving on to the University of Utah to complete her Master of Social Work, graduating in 1983. She applied that education by working for the Salt Lake City School District for 26 years where she never had a dull day with the countless students who ventured into her office with various problems. She adored her "difficult" students and always found a way to mentor those who lacked structure and stability. And while all her students towered over her small 4'11" frame she was never easily intimidated, nor did they ever disrespect her. After retiring she enjoyed volunteering at the University of Utah and spending countless hours tending to her yard and flowers and spending time with "Tata" as she called Robert until his death in May of 2009. She treasured her diverse lifelong friends and always made time to keep in touch with them near or far. But by far spending time with her most treasured granddaughters Amanda, Mary and Rebekah always seemed to be the light that never dimmed within her.\r\nTeresa, leaves behind a grieving son, daughter and 3 granddaughters that are eternally grateful for showing us her courage, strength and grace as she fought a short but painful battle with cancer. Reunited now with our father and the menagerie of pets you cherished we will miss you eternally. Mom, we are beyond humbled by all you accomplished.\r\nFuneral services will be held Saturday at 11:00 a.m. at Neil O'Donnell and Sons Mortuary, 372 East 100 South, where friends may call one hour prior to services. Interment, Mt Olivet Cemetery, 1342 E. 500 S. immediately following.\r\nThe family wish to express their heartfelt gratitude to Rocky Mountain Hospice, Ms. Carrie Bakula & Dr. Bretton Newman, as well as The Huntsman Cancer Institute, Dr. Jamie L. Brant & Dr. Benjamin Voorhies. The empathy and respect you showed our mother will never be forgotten.
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