Javan Yoo

Javan Yoo, 15, of Sandy, left this earth January 22, 2025. He was a bright young soul who touched many lives with his humor, wit, and most importantly, his kindness towards others. His ever-present smile could light up any room he entered.

Born on February 4, 2009, to Jenna Jiyoung Kim and Tom Yoo, Javan showed intellectual curiosity and warmth from an early age. His brother affectionately called him "J bee" – a nickname that captured his sweet nature. As his mother's forever baby boy, Javan brought joy and warmth to their home. 

As a student in the SALTA (advanced learning) program, Javan approached learning with enthusiasm and a willingness to share his knowledge with others. He had a gift for mathematics and English - his favorite subjects. He eagerly participated in math competitions, where his problem-solving abilities shined. His family loved seeing him grow and excel in the things he enjoyed, always encouraging his natural curiosity and love of learning.

Music became a passion for Javan as he discovered the joy of playing guitar. He loved listening to music, as well the time he spent making music with his friends. His creative spirit shone through in all his interests, whether it was building complex worlds in Minecraft or building architectural legos.

 Javan found peace and joy in the outdoors, exploring tide pools at the beach, fishing in streams and hiking through Utah's beautiful landscapes. He enjoyed collecting coins, rocks and fossils that caught his eye. Memories were made traveling and camping with his cousins, where they would share adventures together. He had a special fondness for watching sunsets by the ocean, moments that seemed to capture his contemplative spirit.

Javan's life was enriched by the love of his family. He is survived by his mother Jenna Jiyoung Kim, his father Tom Yoo, his brother Jude Yoo, and his grandparents Yeoungsun Lee, Jinsang Kim, and Kathy Yoo. He is further survived by his uncle Jihae (Wanjeong) Kim, aunt Hanna (Chad) Nicol, and cousins Sarang, Stella, Chase and Joon. His kind and patient nature was evident when he would spend time with his younger cousins, teaching them new things, and listening to them talk about their interests. His memory will continue to live on through their stories and shared experiences.

Though his time with us was brief, Javan's impact on those around him was profound. His gentle spirit and creative heart serve as an inspiration to all who knew him. He showed us that life's greatest joys come from sharing moments with those we love, whether making music with friends, exploring nature, or simply sharing a smile.

The world was a brighter place because of Javan's presence in it, and while he will be deeply missed, his spirit lives on in the hearts and minds of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Like the sunsets he loved so much, Javan's memory will continue to bring warmth and light to all who knew him.

A open house will be held Saturday, February 1, 2025 at Cannon Mortuary, 2460 E. Bengal Blvd. (7600 S.), Cottonwood Heights, Utah  84121 from 1:30-3:30 PM with a  memorial service from 3:30-4:30 PM following the open house.