Arla Lynn Trout

It is with heavy hearts that we announce and celebrate the remarkable life of Arla Lynn Trout. On November 26, 2023, at St. Mary's Hospital in Grand Junction, Colorado, Arla passed peacefully on her own terms, surrounded by her sister Scarlett, daughter Donita, and granddaughters Raigan and Halle. She spent her last few days with them making memories to carry on. Born on October 28, 1958, in Zanesville, Ohio, to Ernest M Pride and Donna C Dilts.

Arla's journey was one of resilience, strength, and a deep commitment to family. After graduating high school, she embarked on a journey of love and motherhood, raising her daughters with grace. She achieved a milestone she was immensely proud of by obtaining her nursing degree (LPN), showcasing her dedication and determination. Marriage brought both joy and challenges, yet Arla faced life's tribulations with an unwavering spirit. Her marriage to Jeffrey Trout blessed her with her youngest daughter, Kathryn. Arla's life was a series of challenges met with resilience, and she navigated through them with warmth, wit, intellect, and an undeniable sense of creativity.

Arla was a natural storyteller, leaving behind a legacy of tales that captured the essence of her adventurous life. Her ability to find humor in even the most difficult times was a testament to her strength. A lover of literature and an expert in music trivia, Arla indulged in various hobbies, including arrowhead hunting and a deep appreciation for Native American culture.

The role of grandma brought unparalleled joy to Arla, and she cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren. However, life's journey also presented its share of heartaches, notably the loss of her granddaughter Ryan in 2000, creating a void that could never be filled.

In 2008, Arla relocated to Utah, where she found love and companionship in Jay Kulhanek in 2011. For 12 years, Jay showered Arla with true love and support, helping her navigate through the challenges life presented. Together, they faced the devastating loss of Arla's youngest child Kathryn in 2018 and again her oldest child Arica in 2021, leaving her grief-stricken and somewhat pessimistic about the changing world. Jay tried to ease the pain with each child's passing the best he knew how. Little did he know how big fur babies Molly and Zuma would complete them and bring love and joy to their lives.

The final blow came on February 26, 2023, when Arla's beloved soulmate, Jay passed away peacefully in his sleep, taking what was left of her will and strength to want to go on.

Arla is survived by her daughter, Donita Blackstone, son-in-law Justin Harwood, sisters Scarlett Ray and Yolanda Corona-Rose, brothers Mike and Pat Cox, granddaughters Raigan White-Walters, Halle White, Cheyenne Mason, and Montana Mason. She made a positive impact on the lives of many children over the years being nicknamed "La-La" by a few. Predeceased by her husband, Jay Kulhanek, beloved daughters, Arica Harwood and Kathryn Trout, granddaughter Ryan Risch, and special friend Patrick Quinn.

In honoring Arla's memory, let us reflect on the resilience and love she demonstrated throughout her life. Arla's spirit will forever live on in our hearts. No memorial service is planned at this time.