Kaye Chalk

Kaye Chalk was born on November 23, 1955, in Blackfoot, Idaho, to Larry and Joanne Van Orden. She was raised on a potato farm, where her love for the outdoors took root. A proud self-described tomboy, Kaye loved flying planes with her dad, water skiing, and spending as much time outside as possible. In high school, she brought both discipline and spirit to the Drill Team at Snake River High School-and never lost her independent streak.

At just 15, Kaye lost her mother, Joanne. Life asked much of her early, but she met hardship with resilience and grit. Known for her quiet rebellion and strong will, she humorously outsmarted a rule requiring dresses by packing pants to change into at school.

At 18, Kaye survived a devastating car accident that left her with a broken neck. Through months of recovery, her bonus mom, Paunie, devoted herself tirelessly to Kaye's care-a gift for which Kaye remained deeply grateful throughout her life.

In 1975, while visiting her sister in Arizona, Kaye met the love of her life, Frederick Andrew Chalk. They were married on August 22, 1975, in the Idaho Falls Temple. They soon settled in Vernal, Utah, where they raised four children: Teresa, Sebrina, Justin, and Joshua. Kaye treasured family life and loved camping and fishing trips to Steinaker Lake and East Park Reservoir, where laughter and togetherness were always abundant.

Kaye was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Her faith was an important part of her life, and she found great joy in attending the temple. She especially loved serving with the Young Women and cherished her time at girls camp. Kaye had a deep love for the gospel and took quiet joy in sharing and teaching its principles to those around her.

To help support her family, Kaye worked for 20 years as a cashier at Smith's and Kroger. Known as the friendliest and most fun cashier in the store, customers often waited just to go through her line. She retired in 2001, leaving behind many friends and fond memories.

Kaye's devotion to family was unwavering. When her sister Gayle was seriously injured in a car accident, Kaye was by her side nearly every day for years, ensuring she was cared for and never alone.

Later in life, Kaye and Fred moved to Arizona, where Fred passed away in November 2010. Kaye remained in Arizona until 2018. Each of her children were privileged to spend extra time with Kaye caring for her as her health declined.

Kaye passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026, at the age of 70, at the Beehive Home, with family by her side. She fought a fierce and courageous battle with dementia, meeting it with remarkable joy, warmth, and a constant smile. Even in illness, Kaye remained a bright, happy presence-easy to love and a blessing to all who knew her.

Preceded in death by her parents, Larry and Joanne Van Orden and Paunie Van Orden, husband, Fred Chalk. sister, Gayle Belnap, brothers-in-law Mike Belnap and Tom Larsen.

Survived by children, Teresa (Rhett) Cook, Sebrina Chalk, Justin (Mandi) Chalk, Joshua Chalk, siblings, Karla (Dale) Bergevin, Taunia (Clint) Wheeler, Wendy (Mark) Duff, Troy (Kathy) Burgon, Michelle (Tim) Williams, and Sevell (Bonnie) Van Orden.

Grandkids and great grandkids

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Funeral services for Kaye will be held Thursday January 8, 2026 at 11:00AM at the Ashley Creek Ward LDS Chapel (4080 South 2500 East) . A viewing for family and friends will be held Thursday from 9:45am - 10:45am at the church. Internment will be held Friday at 11:00am in the Monroe City Cemetery 660 North Washburnville Road, Monroe, UT.