Gaylene Crocco, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, sister-in-law, aunt and friend, passed away peacefully December 26, 2021; she was 83. Gaylene was able to enjoy and celebrate Christmas Day with her family, opening presents, eating great Italian food with a lot of laughter and fun.

Gaylene was born September 22, 1938, in Royal, Utah to Loren and Carmela Peterson. Gaylene was from the coal camps, Royal and Castle Gate. During that time Gaylene was somewhat of a tomboy. She could outrun any girl or boy in the camp.  This later helped chasing her kids around the house.

She graduated from Carbon High School in 1956 and then moved to Salt Lake City and attended Excelsis Beauty School where she received her cosmetology license. Gaylene returned to Price and began her career as a beautician. Her kindness and generosity prevented her from accepting any money from clients, so she ultimately continued her career for family and friends at her home. Gaylene gave everyone we know their first perm.  Gaylene also touched the lives of many children at Castle Heights Elementary where she was a special education aide for many years. She was also a substitute teacher throughout Carbon elementary schools where she always had candy for the students.

Gaylene was introduced to Eugene Crocco, her ideal mate, friend and partner. They were married June 2, 1962, at St. Anthony’s in Helper, Utah. They were married for 58 years. Together, they had three children, to whom they devoted their life. Family was everything to Gaylene. She never missed a dance recital, cheer event, or any activity sporting or otherwise with her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed cooking and there was a big meal on the table seven days a week. She enjoyed her flower garden and took great pride in her roses. Gaylene and Eugene traveled around the US, but their favorite destination was always Wendover. Gaylene had a knack for hitting a royal flush.

Gaylene’s grandchildren were the joy of her life.  She was their biggest fan and always there for them.

She will always be remembered for her endless love and support, for the laughter and tears we shared, the songs we danced and sang to, the Italian goodies we made, and the love and life we shared.

The heavens will be happy; an angel is on the way.

Gaylene is survived by her two daughters, Christy (Scott) Richards, Salt Lake City, Carrie Crocco, Price; grandchildren, Angelina, Casey, Cade; brother, Jim (Paula) Peterson, Salt Lake City; sisters-in-law, Georgene Peterson, Janet Barbiero, Joan Crocco; and many loving nieces and nephews, and extended family.

Preceded in death by husband Eugene; son, Gene; parents, Loren, Carmela, Frank; and brother, Ben.

Funeral Mass, Thursday, December 30, 2021, 10:00 a.m., Notre Dame de Lourdes Catholic Church, where the family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Vigil service, Wednesday evening, 7:00 p.m., Mitchell Funeral Home, where the family will receive friends one hour prior to the vigil. Committal service, Cliffview Cemetery, Price, Utah.

A special thank you to Symbii Home Health and Hospice: Michaela, Candice, Allison, Dr. Williams and everyone who had cared for Gaylene. Another thanks to Good Life and all the wonderful people who provided care.

Arrangements entrusted to Mitchell Funeral Home where friends are always welcome daily and may share memories of Gaylene online at www.mitchellfuneralhome.net.