Michelle Pace Bearnson

Salem, Utah – Michelle Pace Bearnson, better known as ‘Granny’ and ‘Aunt Shell’, passed unexpectedly but peacefully Friday, September 29th in Payson. Michelle was born the fourth child to Guy Grigg and Barbara Coombs Pace, on June 7, 1952 in Richfield, Utah. Growing up on a ranch in Teasdale and being the only daughter to a home full of boys, Michelle had her work cut out for her. Aside from being a full-time member of “Gramps’ sprinkler crew,” she spent countless hours alongside her mom learning the true talent and love of homemaking. Michelle graduated from Wayne High School in 1970. She met Steven Boyer Bearnson at Utah State in the Fall of 1970 and true to the farming and ranching life, they were married in the “off season” December 16, 1972. Michelle graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from Utah State University in 1974. She was a teacher with Nebo School District for 32 years where she retired shortly before getting her favorite job, Grandmother. Her grandkids Macy (9), Jake (8), and Erik (7), were her true joy. She spent countless hours with them reading, sewing treasures, drawing, building, cooking and supporting whatever event or adventure they were involved in. Granny’s happiest moments were spent sitting in a chair reading with a grandchild. Michelle’s energy and passion for life was contagious. Anyone that knew Michelle knew her natural artistic ability. She had a deep enthusiasm for quilting, cooking and canning. Her fun, fiery personality, quick wit and unmatched work ethic are exhibited through her many projects as well as the spirit she instilled in her children. She will be deeply missed and never forgotten. Michelle leaves behind a legacy through her survivors: Steven Boyer Bearnson, husband (Salem) and her children, Bjarn (Becky) Bearnson (Spanish Fork) and Kate Bearnson Brown (Salt Lake); mother, Barbara Coombs Pace of Teasdale; siblings: Richard (Rebecca) Pace of Teasdale; Phillip (Jessie) Pace of Torrey; and Doug (Paulyn) Pace of Teasdale; sister in law, Charlotte Pace of Salt Lake City and many nieces and nephews that she held dear to her heart. Michelle is preceded in death by infant son Chet Steven Bearnson, father, Guy Pace and brother J. Mark Pace. Funeral services will be held, Wednesday, October 4th at 12:00 pm at the LDS Ward in Benjamin, 3278 West 7300 South, Spanish Fork, UT. Friends and family are welcome to call at a visitation that morning 10:00-11:30. Interment will be at the Spanish Fork Cemetery.