Our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Curtis, passed away peacefully in his home on November 26th, 2023 after enduring the painful effects of cancer. Born on May 23rd, 1942 to George Leon Christensen and Miriam Doris Charles of Salt Lake City, he was the oldest of three children and spoke often of how much he enjoyed his childhood growing up by the Capitol Building and spending time with his siblings and parents. Curtis also greatly enjoyed the opportunity he had to serve the people of Manchester, England as part of his LDS mission.
Curtis returned from his mission and attended Tradetech (now Salt Lake Community College) where he furthered his love of automobile and machine repair, and worked at Kennecott Copper repairing large diesel trucks for over 40 years. Curtis married Yvonne Turner on February 25, 1965, and together they dedicated their lives to raising two daughters, and later their grandchildren. Even into his 80th year he was driving his granddaughter to and from school, until his health would not allow him to do so.
Curtis was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints who faithfully and joyfully held many callings. Even after completing his full time mission, Curtis’ heart continued to turn to service; many times serving family, friends and neighbors with his talents, which included fixing every car that came his way. Many nights were spent working on cars in the driveway and in his garage, and the smell of the oil still reminds us of his cheerful smile as well as his tireless work.
Curtis loved music and had a beautiful tenor voice. He sang with the Oratorio Society of Utah for 15 years. He played the trumpet as a young boy and taught himself how to play piano and ukulele. Curtis would make Thanksgiving dinner for his family, and delicious hash browns on Christmas morning, all while taking pride in taking care of his yard. We will miss you dad!
He is survived by his wife, Yvonne;, daughters, Rebecca Burggraaf, Elizabeth Seal (Scott Seal); grandchildren, Carolyn Henrie (Dallan Henrie), Abigail Burggraaf, Chelsea Burggraaf, Savannah Burggraaf, JJ Baker, Emily Baker, Aubrey Baker, Jack Baker; and great grandchildren, Daniel and Scott Henrie. Sister Elena Yeates (Robert Yeates), Sister-in-law Nanci Christensen.
Preceded in death, his parents George Leon Christensen and Miriam Doris Charles, and little brother Daniel Brian Christensen.
A viewing will be held December 7th, 2023 from 6:00 PM-8:00 PM at the Rodeo Lane Chapel: 6350 Rodeo Lane, Murray, UT. 84121 Funeral services will be held December 8th, 2023 at 11:00 am with a viewing before at 10:00 AM at the Rodeo Lane Chapel as well. Curtis will be laid to rest at Memorial Estates: 6500 South Redwood Rd. West Jordan, UT. 84123.
Thursday, December 7, 2023
6:00 - 8:00 pm (Mountain time)
Rodeo Lane Chapel
Friday, December 8, 2023
Starts at 11:00 am (Mountain time)
Rodeo Lane Chapel
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