Clara Marie Burkman Taylor

Clara Marie Burkman Taylor, our sweet mother, sister, grandmother, and aunt passed away November 19th, 2021 at St. Mark’s hospital, age 61.

Clara Marie leaves her family and friends with a legacy of pure love, kindness, joy, and loyalty. As a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Clara knew wholeheartedly that she would be warmly embraced beyond the veil by her mother Karna May Burkman (Carlsen), father Gilbert R. Burkman, her brother Robert Burkman and two sisters Annette and Karna May Burkman.

Clara is also preceded in death by Dr. Stephen Cope Taylor, her spouse of 25 years and father to her four children Emily, Michael, Stephen Jr, and Elijah. Clara is honored in memory and life by her four children, their spouses and partners as well as her six grandchildren and her two loving-protectors and older brothers Gilbert Burkman, and Rudolph Burkman as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, in-laws, and friends.

You never questioned whether Clara loved you. Every moment spent with and sometimes without her she would send messages of love, concern, hope, and inspiration. Her loved ones' phones are filled with memories, messages, pictures, and videos that Clara would share. She did this because to Clara family meant everything.

If you were to ask our mother what her greatest achievement was, her response would likely be “to know my babies are happy.” Along with her maternal devotion, Clara worked to pay the bills and tuition fees for her late husband Stephen C. Taylor to ensure he completed his Chiropractic degree without debt. She did this with no complaint and total commitment. Clara helped to provide a home for her four children that was a place of growth and safety. In Layton and Kaysville she gardened and grew her fruit and vegetables so her babies received the healthiest meals. Clara embraced all her children’s talents and interests and would financially and emotionally support them through ballet, football, baseball, karate, wrestling, theater, choir, creative writing, art, and the occasional video game, so long as it didn’t take you from her for too long.

Clara’s motherly instincts trickled into all aspects of her life. As her children grew older she decided to study nursing at Weber State University. She was an accomplished nurse at Mckay Dee Hospital and other Nursing home facilities. Even in their uncomfortable and pained states, clients knew our sweet Clara by name and would often request her personally whenever they had needs.

Clara miraculously found time for other hobbies and talents that she would pass on to loved ones. Her family cherishes memories of her playing “Stairway to Heaven” or “Let it Be” on the guitar, accompanied by her beautiful vocals. Even without formal training, she painted many canvases with surreal landscapes that to the naked eye seemed to be professionally crafted. She even went on to receive a black belt in Karate and encouraged all to learn to defend themselves, which was useful while raising four rambunctious children.

Finding Clara in a room was never difficult. Her gorgeous, long, and dark red hair was a lifelong beacon for friends and family to spot Clara. Even as she aged, Clara’s hair never grayed, nothing about her ever grayed, she was vibrant, caring, and optimistic till the very end. The memory of Clara will never age in the minds that were blessed to know her. Clara Marie’s love and grace is an eternal gift that she hopes others will embrace and share for generations to come.

Services will be held by Kramer Family Funeral Home in West Valley Utah. The Funeral will begin at 11 AM, starting with a family prayer. After the funeral, Clara will be laid to rest at the Murray Cemetery.

The Burkman and Taylor family want to express their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time

Many funeral expenses are covered but some unexpected costs have arisen with the burial and headstone, any donations made would be extremely appreciated.

Mom’s favorite colors are green and purple. Please send flowers to Kramer Family Funeral Home. 2500 South Decker Lake Blvd #1, West Valley City, UT 84119