Washington, Utah – Shahlah Golchin, 32, passed away peacefully in her sleep on the evening of June 11, 2019. She is survived by her father, John; siblings: Shirrine, Shadie, Shahrzaud, Kimberly, Zach, Nick and Samantha; Grandma Bowler; Aunt Diane; as well as many others. She is also survived by her husband, Jody; and her little puppy, Pokey. She was preceded in death by her mother, April.

Shahlah grew up in St. George and cherished the memories of her childhood. Her dog Chester, funny experiences with her family, and working in her grandparents' garden were among the many stories she would share with me. The day she passed she had been telling me that when she was a little girl if she got upset by something at home, she would run two houses down to her Grandma Bowler's home, sit on the steps and cry. Her grandma would soon find her and bring her inside to comfort and care for her, taking her mind off her problems, until it was time to send her home for dinner. In later years some of her happiest times were nightly talks on the phone with her grandma. Grandmas make the best friends.

She had a golden heart, quick to love but so easily hurt by the indifferences and ugliness this world sometimes offers us all. She was simply unable to shrug off the disappointment most of us are able to live with or forget.

I loved her the day we met almost 10 years ago. She was my "Little One", my "Sweet Pea". She was my fishing and shooting buddy. Together we treasured our little family: Shahlah, Jody and Pokey.

Shahlah, I feared my time with you would be short. I regret not being patient enough and not taking the opportunity to listen when I should have. I regret every fight, every mean word. I wish I could have made your life better than it was. I am not sure why you passed that night, but I do know that you were tired; having had such a long fight against a failing body and a heart that had been broken too many times.

Your passing has left an emptiness that will never be filled. I hope that you are at peace now. I hope that you will remember me when we see each other again. I will love you always. Shahlah, you don't have to cry anymore.