John William (Bill) Christensen

John William (Bill) Christensen, at the age of 88, passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife and family in Salem, Oregon on Sunday, February 16, 2020.

Bill was born in Roosevelt Utah, November 10, 1931 to William Johnson and Violet Eva Francis. He grew up with his mother and stepfather (Marion Christensen) in Vernal, Utah. He later met Lydia “Marlene” Christensen and married her on April 30, 1951 in Salt Lake City, in the Salt Lake City Temple. They lovingly welcomed 9 children into their family.

Bill joined the US Marine Corps in 1950 where he served for three years, and then joined the Air Force and retired 17 years later. He trained pilots and was also responsible for repairing and maintaining flight simulators. He then went on to work for the State of Oregon as an electrician. Once he retired from the State of Oregon, he continued working as a private contractor.

He was a proud member of the Siletz Indian Tribe, and he enjoyed cultural events that celebrated that heritage.

This kind and loving man is survived by his wife “Marlene”, his daughter Rebecca Gamble, (Richard), Lorna Johnson, Laurie Christensen, his sons Jay Christensen, Randy Christensen, Rex Christensen (Tamra), and Gary Christensen (Mary). His brothers Paul, Merritt, Garth, and Nick. He was preceded in death by his daughters Pamela Christensen, and Jeanette Pistorius, his brother Carl, his sisters Hattie Jo, and Francis. He has 34 grandchildren, 57 great grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild.

He spent his life guided by the teachings of our Savior Jesus Christ. He loved to serve others and to be surrounded by his family. He had a sure testimony of Jesus Christ and a willingness to share it with everyone he came in contact with. He was a devout and steadfast member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He taught Seminary while living in Texas and California, and he served in many capacities in his faith. He was a friend to all, and no one was a stranger. He never failed to bring laughter to those who needed it and could crack a joke to make anyone and everyone feel at ease. He will be remembered for his unwavering faith, humor, selflessness, and above all else, his infectious smile.