Oh, what an incredible life!!
No words can adequately capture the breadth of influence reached throughout this amazing man’s life.
Richard (Dick) Christensen was a man of faith, a man of charity, a man of fun and adventure and a man of humility. He was a builder of many things, most importantly, a builder of people’s hearts. He made the world a better place as he went about doing good throughout his entire life.
Dad was born in Richfield, Utah to George and Madge Christensen on May 31, 1933. His formative years were spent in Payson, Utah where he learned the value of hard work and having fun and developed a love of hunting, fishing and anything outdoors. He also surrounded himself with other good young men whose friendships would endure throughout his 90 years.
After 2 years at BYU, 2 years in the U.S. Army and a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to the Eastern States Mission, he finally married his sweetheart, Diane Ahlander, in the Salt Lake Temple on June 5, 1958. Dad often referred to this 6 years as mom “waiting for him to grow up.” A graduate degree from the University of California, Berkley and children followed. Dad was successful at everything he did whether it was being the family man that he was, serving in the church, professionally as an investment banker or in the community.
Dad was a builder—a man of invention and innovation. Dad designed and built 3 homes, 3 cabins, garages, barns, sheds, and an assortment of other “out buildings” at the ranch. He built fences and flyrods, brackets and boxes, gun ranges and guns. Dad built water treatment plants and womens’ shelters. He built a powerplant and he built up people. He built a church and he built up the Church. He built a hospital and he built a house into a home. And he had fun doing it all.
Dad was an adventurer. He planned many exciting trips throughout his life for he and Mom and for the family. He was perhaps best known in some circles for his outdoorsman like exploits. These included hunting and fishing trips to Africa, Canada, Mexico, Alaska and many other states. He somewhat miraculously avoided being eaten by lions, crocodiles and bears.
Dad “went about doing good.” Dad took on many civic responsibilities. He was chairman of the board during the construction of Alta View Hospital, a difficult and rewarding role. He also chaired the committee that was instrumental in developing and preserving the open space that is now Dimple Dell Regional Park. These have been a couple of high-profile roles, but where Dad really excelled was in his quiet, daily, unheralded and oft time anonymous service. Our folks invited many young couples to spend their penniless honeymoons at the cabin in Eden, Utah. Dad gave to all kinds of charities all around the globe, including educational opportunities in Africa after he witnessed so many challenges in that area of the world. We hear so many stories about how dad helped particular individuals, couples, families and organizations. As children we were taught the principle of charity through Sub for Santa and other service opportunities. We learned from his great example of helping everyone and anyone.
Dad was a man of God. Since a young age, the teachings of Jesus Christ have played an important role in Dad’s life. As mentioned, Dad served a mission in the Eastern States Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He spent much of that mission service in upstate New York, a precursor to serving as the New York Rochester Mission President from 1987-1990. Mom and Dad loved their time in the “Cradle of the Restoration” serving with others and being surrounded by important Church historical sites. Dad was grateful to serve with the most valiant and devoted missionaries anywhere in the world. Previously, while living in the Holladay area Dad served as the bishop of the Cottonwood 10th Ward, a calling he would repeat later when he was called as bishop of the Pepperwood YSA Ward. He loved working with these amazing young singles!
Dad enjoyed his time as a sealer in the Jordan River, and later in the Mt. Timpanogos, Temples, and was especially excited to have the opportunity to officiate the sealing Suzanne and Bob as well as several of his grandchildren to their spouses. Dad also served in a variety of other callings, including Aaronic and Melchizedek Priesthood quorum presidencies and advisory roles, High Council and other special assignments.
Dad lived a life that was full and impactful. A creed that he lived by was that the world should be a better place for him having been here. As we gathered around him the last few days of his life, he was asked if there was anything that he would do differently. He said that there wasn’t a thing he’d change. He loved everything he did. He loved his family. He loved investment banking. He loved his church work. He loved hunting. He loved his life, wouldn’t have changed a thing and had no regrets. What a wonderful legacy he leaves!
Dad left this mortal existence on the morning of June 23, 2023, in Heber City, Utah when he was finally able to enjoy that long awaited reunion with Mom. This Dad, grandpa, great-grandpa, uncle, cousin, brother, friend, will be sorely missed. You were a wonderful man and an example of Christ-like service. Thank you for everything you have given us.
If you were fortunate enough to know our dad, Dick Christensen, you have been truly blessed.
Preceded in death by his wife Diane, daughter Stacy, parents George and Madge Christensen, a brother Robert, sisters Anna (Cates), Carolyn (Zander) and Helen.
Survived by children: Mark and Laura, Ted and Joyce, Alan and Tressa, Suzanne and Robert Evensen, 12 Grandchildren and 6 Great Grandchildren as well as sister: Ruth (Steve) Gordon.
Thanks to everyone who loved or was loved by our dad. His life was blessed by knowing so many wonderful people from beginning to the end.
Dad always said it was better to be “seen” than “viewed.” He and the family can be “seen” at Larkin Sunset Gardens Mortuary, 1950 E. 10600 S., Thursday, June 29 from 6:00-8:00pm and Friday, June 30 from 10:00-10:45am. His “farewell” will follow at 11am.
Those wishing to view the services via Zoom can click "Watch Services" or follow the link: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/nSdUbyhfzYxib0idRubWkdDi8LxLe8grslq9XswN0-ok9xOt9SIJmjfvAyKCQYqB.5lDtqJKKuiySgYH6?startTime=1688141383000
President Christensen was the best! From the moment he saw you, you felt like you belonged. He was an amazing mentor and was always concerned about your well being. Love and prayers to the family. He was a giant among men!💔
I feel so blessed to have known such a kind, humble man. He was always asking everyone how they were doing and if he could do anything to help them. I get tears in my eyes just reflecting back and realizing how much everyone is going to miss this Special Son of God! I’m happy he’s home with his sweetheart. I think anyone who has lost their sweetheart looks forward to this day with anticipation. I know I do.
So sorry to hear about him leaving. I can't remember my mission without thinking of and Sister Christiansen They were the best and always enthusiastic about who we were teaching. Because we were serving so close to the mission home, he attended several of our baptisms. He confirmed one of the children we baptized. We always felt loved when we met with him at zone conference. I was looking forward to one last mission reunion with him. There were many people we taught that felt the love of the church because he influenced the missionaries to love those we taught. I remember my last night in the mission home when when 2 families I had taught showed up unexpectedly. He invited both of them in to join our testimony meeting. What a blessing it was to have them stand and bare their testimonies. I will always remember the love we felt from them both.
I only “know” Dick through his incredible daughter and my new friend Suz. One of the the things I love about her besides that she was my friend when I was lonely and new to Heber City, is that she adored her dad. She talked about him with such respect and love. It was so easy for her to tell stories about his impact for good on her and others. She beamed when she spoke of him - and called herself “the luckiest” to be his daughter. She cared for him with such unselfishness and with his best interests in mind. From reading his obituary, his character, generosity and goodness will love on in many. To all those that knew and loved him I send my love and I pray for your peace as as you learn to live here without him. I hope you see glimpses of his footprint living on, reminding you of his love for you. You are blessed to have known such a special man.
Dick was a great man. We loved the times we got to share at his ranch in Axtell! He loved showing our grandsons his “deadhead shed” and we had so much fun. He was a great example, full of warmth and love and I’m grateful to be a cousin.
We both were so lucky to have Dick as our Bishop while in the Cottonwood 10th ward. Our fondest memories were of our youth trips to Disneyland and San Francisco which he made possible. Steve also served with him as sealers at Jordan River temple. He was always such a good example in everyway. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
The neatest, most humble guy I've ever known. Wise in so many ways...
Dick left the World a Better Place.
I'm honored to have known him.
Craig Purse
The things I learned while serving under the leadership of President and Sister Christensen have continued to bless my life all these years later.
I was always grateful for his willingness to listen during interviews and the words of wisdom he would share-sometimes just, Sister Jensen, I think it will work out.
He was a great teacher, a great leader, and always made me feel like I could be a good missionary.
Thanks for sharing he him and your mom with us for those years. ❤️
Blessings to you and your family, Suz. No matter how long we have our parents, it's never enough time. Your father sounds like a remarkable man who lived life to the fullest. Hopefully, you can spend your time remembering all the love and good times he brought to you and your brothers.
❤️
Dick was a special part of our lives and a good friend to our dad, Dick Money, since they were kids. It was so fun to visit his cabin in the valley during New Years and see the whole gang hang out each New Year’s when we were growing up. We know that he is having an amazing reunion with Diane and our Dad and Mom and all the family and friends as well. I’m sure there’s some chuckles over the good old days happening in heaven. Sending all our love to the family.
As soon as we moved to Sandy, Dick and Diane surrounded us with love and friendship. They introduced us to people and places. They filled our hearts with ice cream, new brooms and good chats. They were both so wonderful and we will miss them every day but they will stay in our hearts.
It was a great honor to have served under President Christensen I remember going on splits with President Christensen while serving in PennYan Branch. He also gave me the opportunity to present to the First presidency a trunk of and old tree from the Sacred Grove. But most of all his love of the Gospel and his Missionaries. My condolences to his Family
We are saddened to learn of Richard's passing. How we loved this gentle giant. Bill and I got to know Richard (as we called him) while he was a resident at Spring Gardens in Heber City. We became fast friends and he and Bill had a lot in common. Since Richard loved to read, Bill gave him a couple of interesting books that he enjoyed. Rest In Peace!
I am sooo sorry to hear of President Christensen’s passing! I have such fond memories of him and Sister Christensen in the New York Rochester mission! I remember. Him putting his arm around me and telling me “ Now don’t you let this bother you! Just go back to your area and got to work ! All will be well! “ This was at the airport dropping off companion that needed to go home early! He didn’t want me to worry anymore! I’m grateful to him for his guidance and love!
Wonderful bishop, great friend, mountain of a man. One day after I did some yard work Dick called me out for an unacceptable result, which was humbling but also a sign that he cared about me. What a great smile, a cheerful countenance! The world has lost a great one.
I just heard the news today about your sweet Dad, and I have such mixed emotions. I am so happy for Dick to be with his sweetheart again, and yes, the world is a much better place because he was here and affected the lives of so many in a positive way! I am so blessed to have been able to know him, and will always treasure the Subway days, Maggie and her roast beef, sledding at the ranch and Dick’s kindness and Christlike spirit. God bless!