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Todd Christensen Obituary
Our loving husband, father, and grandfather Todd Jay Christensen passed away November 13, 2013 as a result of complications during surgery. His surviving family and friends are saddened by his sudden passing, yet recognize gratefully the wonderful legacy he leaves behind in the form of his posterity and in the example of his life.
Todd was born August 3, 1956 in Pennsylvania, the second son of Ned and June Christensen. Early in his childhood the family moved to Eugene, Oregon, where Todd's father Ned was a University of Oregon professor. From an early age Todd had a strong interest in athletics, excelling in track and field, baseball, basketball, and football. Football was destined to become his meal ticket. He played fullback at Brigham Young University and was later drafted into the NFL with the Dallas Cowboys. After a few years of struggling in the league, he found his niche with the Oakland Raiders, where he became an all-pro pass-catching tight end, leading the league in receiving twice and winning two super bowl championships. Even before his playing career was done, his unique verbal skill was recognized, and he transitioned easily from the playing field to the broadcast booth, working as a broadcaster for NBC, ESPN, the MTN Network, and most recently, CBS Sports. He also had a short but memorable stint as a moderator for the television program, 'American Gladiators.'
Todd recognized how fortunate he was that so many of his childhood dreams had come true, but professional success, however rewarding, did not distract him from what he considered his true priorities: his family and his faith. He married Kathleen Simmons Christensen, the love of his life, in the Salt Lake Temple, November 28, 1977. They had four sons; Toby, Tory, Trevor, and Teren. Todd was guided and sustained by his faith and endeavored to rear his family according to those principles.
In every arena of his life, Todd sought earnestly for self-improvement because of his love and understanding of the Plan of Salvation and the Gospel of Jesus Christ. As much gratification as he received from training his body to peak efficiency, he took greater pleasure in pursuits of the mind, rarely leaving the house without his journal, scriptures and books he was reading.
Todd was not a man without failings, but he possessed the redeeming quality of persistence, the desire to be better today than he was yesterday. Perhaps his best quality, however, was his generosity and focus on helping other people. His influence was felt in his family, church and in his community, and he will be sorely missed.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 16, 2013 at 1:00 pm in the Alpine North LDS Stake Center Chapel, 1125 East Alpine Boulevard, Alpine, Utah. Family and friends may call Friday evening from 6:00-8:00 pm at the Alpine North Stake Center Chapel, and Saturday from 11:30-12:30 pm prior to services at the church. Interment, Alpine City Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.warenski.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Todd Christensen
Zach Christensen
February 11, 2022
Never knew him well, but my grandpa has told countless stories of them growing up together in Eugene. God bless
John Kukawka
December 12, 2020
Remembering a truly remarkable Man and Athlete who was truly an Inspiration to Everyone who had ever seen Todd play Professional Football... Our Thoughts and Prayers go out Always to the entire Christensen Family and may Todd continue to Rest in Peace forever... All of Raider Nation do continue to Mourn of Your Passing from Us All... RIP #46...
Barbara Kukawka
October 18, 2018
Rest in Peace, Todd...
John Kukawka
October 18, 2018
To a great man and a great athlete. May Todd Rest in Peace. True Raider Forever.
Cathy Viviano
August 14, 2017
In honor of the late great Todd Christensen
Mike Rinehart
May 31, 2016
Todd,
I just wanted to say that I remember you as both a fan of yours as a player with the Raiders and for your work covering games as a color commentator. You will always be sadly missed by Raider Nation. God Speed.
Robin Kichnet
May 30, 2015
Remember when we were young families in the El Segundo ward. We had some great times and a lot of laughs. Todd was always willing to help. He was there when our daughter married and when our son died. Thank you so much Todd and Kathy.
July 29, 2014
I wanted to say I was thinking of Kathy today and praying for her. When I saw her in the store the other day, I told her it gets easier after a year, because that is what others tell me and my mom, about my dad. Mom says it doesn't. However, a scar is beautiful in the tapestry of eternity and makes us better people for having lived through it. As compassionate, kind and wonderful as you already are, Heavenly Father loves you very much to allow for this.
March 30, 2014
Please accept my sincere condolences on the death of your dear love one. “And no resident will say: I am sick…” Isa 33:24. This is a promise God has made known in his word. Perhaps one day in the divine future you or I may see again those fallen from our lives due to a sickness or illness that led to an untimely death. Prayers go out to the surviving family and friends may the God of comfort continue to bless you and yours.
Bryce and Michelle Flake
December 29, 2013
Our thoughts, prayers and fondest memories are with you. Todd was so kind and helpful always interested in the best good. Our deepest sympathy is there for you. You are dear always smiling, friendly and positive a sincere friend we love you.
Valerie McFarland
November 25, 2013
My heart goes out to the Christensen family during this very difficult time. I didn't know Todd...but I am one of many in the Raider Nation that loved to watch him play. God speed to you all.
kevin
November 22, 2013
I had a social work class with Todd at BYU and remember him as very nice guy who contributed a great deal to the class
Steve
November 21, 2013
Met Todd at an autograph show a few years ago. After the show, which was in a restaurant, he walked up to my 15 year old son and I and asked if he could join us watching the Raider game..a great, humble, wonderful man. May God Bless The Christensen Family
Deepak
November 20, 2013
Todd was a great player. I will miss him. The Raiders had great teams in my childhood. Although I do not know him personally, I will not forget him for the good times he gave me as a kid
world champions
Michael Lloyd
November 20, 2013
My sincerest condolences to the entire Christensen family. He was a great player & one of my favorites. R I P hall of famer & thanks for playing for my all time favorite team.
November 20, 2013
my sincere sympathy to the family,let God's words comfort you at this time."Happy are those who mourn,since they will be comforted."matt.5:4.....G
November 19, 2013
Todd always was and always will be my favorite Raider. I met him twice and he was also the nicest man. I'll never forget the Superbowl in Tampa, watching Todd quietly kneel on the field in the midst of all the celebration. May God bless your family.
Cindi B. (Castaic, CA)
Kerry Hammond
November 19, 2013
We were so saddened to hear of Todd's passing. Though we only met a couple of times on Eugene we always remembered them. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
November 19, 2013
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
victor checketts
November 19, 2013
I met Todd while at BYU class is what he was. he truly was a great asset to the cougars in the mid 70s along with Jim McMahon. His pro career with the raiders was outstanding. As an analyst he was very knowledgeable. May god bless your family at this time of sadness. R.I.P. #33 you certainly typified the spirit of BYU and the Oakland Raiders
victoria krebs-hendrick
November 18, 2013
Always a classy player.what a great loss to raider nation and his loving family
Cordell Andersen
November 18, 2013
I met Todd a few years ago during Winter-time workouts at the BYU Smith Fieldhouse--me as an old guy fighting to keep moving, but impressed at his friendliness & always remembering my name from year to year. As a BYU grad I had always admired him at BYU and then at the Raiders and finally honored to meet him. He was incredible doing his warm-up exercises, then setting up the hurdles on the south-side straightaway, and do them time after time like a track star--until last year. I have missed seeing him this season...and wondered. He inspired and encouraged me and will continue in my thoughts and prayers.
CORDELL M ANDERSEN
Cynthia Howard
November 17, 2013
To The Family of Todd
From Eugene, Oregon
May God put all of your hearts in his hands as you go through this difficult time. Todd was a great guy and will be missed by many. Take Care. Eugene mourns with you...Gods strength.
Robert Beals
November 17, 2013
Wish your family a fast healing.
Will always remember his great times as a Raider.
Rob Hudson
November 17, 2013
Toby: I very likely met you and your siblings in Redondo and Manhattan Beach(s) in the 80's, when I lived in RB. ran into ur Dad and some of his teammates frequently, back kin the day"...class act, whose company always challenged me! He will be missed! my condolences to you, your Mom, and family!
V. Herrera
November 17, 2013
Prayers to the family. A fan
Mike & Luann Tomsick
November 17, 2013
Toby,
May The Lord comfort and bless you and your family at this time in your life. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Steve Benson
November 17, 2013
Todd was a great guy in so many ways.
We knew each other at BYU in the 1970s, before he was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys (and then went to Oakland a year later). He and I worked together in our on-campus student congregation (the 78th Branch, as it was called back then). Todd was a soft-spoken, pleasant, poised, articulate guy with a good heart and amazing natural athletic talent. I really enjoyed knowing him and am so sad he has died. He leaves behind a wife and four sons. The world has been denied the life of a fine human being who died too young. Peace to him and his family.
Ben Butler
November 16, 2013
Todd Christensen was a great player and a humble man. I wish I could get a copy of his famous poem, "A Destiny to Win." [email protected]
Janet Wallis Bishop
November 16, 2013
We were so saddened to hear of the passing of Todd. We enjoyed following his career. He was a great man. I babysat for his wife and her brothers and sisters years ago in Seattle Washington. We will always love her family. Our prayers are with all of you. Much love, Janet Wallis Bishop (Amelia, Ohio)
Linda Steenerson
November 16, 2013
He used to date my roommate Jennifer . He would come into our English Tudor home where 12 girls lived. No one ever knocked but Tod did. There was always a hush of reverence when he entered. I am deeply touched by the loss. Until we meet again. Linda Connell-Steenerson Class of 1977.
November 16, 2013
I babysat the Christensen boys in Eugene many years ago. Todd was a wonderfully creative thinker who took pride in " helping me with my homework ". God bless you Todd, and we wish your family peace. Vickie Rigsby Hamory
Steve Leonard
November 16, 2013
Truly loved to watch him play and broke out my dictionary when he became a commentator... More than once. He was amazing on and off the field. Huge loss. Condolences to family and many friends.
tom walsh
November 16, 2013
Kathy & sons - Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Sorry to hear about the passing of Todd. He was a very creative and unique individual and talent on the field and added significantly to the years of success with us at the Raiders. He definitely will be remembered by his Raider family in December at the 30-year celebration for the 1983 season's Super Bowl victory over the Redskins.
November 16, 2013
TODD CHRISTENSEN IS NOW WITH AL DAIVS RIP
beverly davis
November 16, 2013
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Gary Sheide
November 16, 2013
Todd: You accomplished so much in your lifetime. It was an honor to be your first collegiate QB. Nobody had hands like you. I wish the best to the wonderful Christensen family in this difficult time, and I will miss you Todd. God be with you 'till we meet again.
dld
November 16, 2013
Cherished memories
in my treasure chest
as too soon from this world you depart
An honor it's been
could never forget you
you'll always be in my heart
Lyle Stavast
November 15, 2013
Condolences to y'all on Todd's passing. I loved watching him play in 77.
Best Wishes to family and friends alike
D Wynn
November 15, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with his family. As a life long Raiders fan, Mr. Christensen provided me with wonderful memories. A true sportsman!
November 15, 2013
I never new Todd personally, but I was a huge fan during his playing days as a Raider. My thoughts and prayers go to Todd's family. Todd will be missed but always be fondly remembered in the Raider family.
David S.
Bullhead City AZ.
Jodi Schoenberger
November 15, 2013
I am so sad to hear of Todd's passing. I have so many fond memories of him at Gold's gym in American Fork. We had a few jump rope contests and of course, he won. And I'll never forget when he sang "Strangers in the night" as a coworker and I danced with our 75 year old client, Carol. He always brought a smile to our face. Sending thoughts and prayers to your family for peace and comfort.
November 15, 2013
Todd always loved to come to the farm when he was small We called him Little Tody he was so fun Merrill and todd loved the farm animals He is a very special cousin We were all very proud of him Elayne Christensen Glanville Tremonon utah
November 15, 2013
The loss of a loved one can be so hard please have comfort in God 's love.
Kathie Hansen Gygi
November 15, 2013
My parents were Chic and Carol, president and companion of the Oakland Mission when Todd was playing for the Raiders. My family sat around the dinner table at the mission home with Todd and his wife and Burgess Owen and his wife over 30 years ago--all wonderful people! Our condolances to the Christensen family.
Jo-Ann Edlefsen
November 15, 2013
Todd was a good friend to our family and I remember with fondness his family and his faith. It was so nice to see him when he came back and visited our ward. The last time I saw him in church I sat next to him and we talked quietly about life, difficulties and joys. He will be remembered with love in our hearts. Forever our friend.
Tom Barlow
November 15, 2013
I had several classes with Todd at BYU in the late 70's. He treated everyone with kindness and respect, despite his legendary larger than life status. I ran into him 3o year later in the SLC airport and he was the same friendly guy. Todd was a true erudite that changed the sports sterotype of what a NFL player can be. One of the greatest Tight ends in the history of the NFL, and the most sublime and regaling color man in the industry.
His greatest achievment was obvious his meritorious devotion to his family and faith. I am sure he is one of the Lords elite in the kingdom. He was 1 in a million
David Tidwell
November 15, 2013
What a great Man. He helped me as a young BYU player. Thanks Todd. A helpful humble giant. My prayers are with your family.
Mike Barnes
November 15, 2013
Todd has great gifts and has blessed my life. He is a special friend. Now missed in this life, but not forgotten, I know he is doing amazing things.
Jason Straw
November 15, 2013
Todd inspired me when I was young football player. Thank you for your legacy!
November 15, 2013
So sorry to hear about Todd. I was a big fan of his play at BYU and the Raiders. May your family be bless at this time.
Gary Scartocci
November 15, 2013
GoodMan. may he RIP, and may God Bless the Family.
November 15, 2013
May The Perpetual Light Shine Upon Him. From a long time Raider fan who enjoyed watching him play and listening to him when he was commentating.
Stan Larson
November 15, 2013
Great example of keeping life in perspective. Fan both on and off the field.
November 15, 2013
3 years in the same backfield with Todd and I cant remember him ever missing a block. Because of him I had some success, because of him our team won 2 championships. He treated my family with kindness and respect. The Blanc's will never forget you. God Bless your family at this time of sorrow. Jeff
Sue Zwahlen
November 15, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this tender time in your lives.
Jon Kydd
November 15, 2013
As a 40 year Raider Fan I would like to thank Todd for his service to Raider Nation.
Sheri Simmons, Olson
November 15, 2013
Todd was such a genuine man with a kind and loving heart. He made such a big impression on me. I am grateful for the opportunity I had to become aquatinted with Todd and his family. Kathy, you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Clay Brown
November 15, 2013
A life well-lived Todd. RIP
Shirley Johnson
November 15, 2013
A great loss for all of us. May the Lord sustain you all.
Val Christensen
November 15, 2013
Todd inspired our youth when he spoke to them several years ago. Clearly he understood that he was blessed with skills most of us do not enjoy, and he used those skills to teach and motivate others for good. Thank you Todd Christensen, and thank you to his family for sharing.
Bob Weller
November 15, 2013
Played basketball against Todd back in the 80's. What a highlight of my life. The spirit lives on.
Jake Jacobsen
November 15, 2013
I was never a Raider fan but I was a Todd Christensen fan...God rest his soul
Kevin Buckner
November 15, 2013
I've been a Raider fan since 1969 and Todd did fit the Raider bill. Tough, skilled and different. I realized what a special guy he was when he showed his emotions regarding John Facenda's description of Marcus Allen's great run in SB XVIII, 'here comes Marcus Allen, running with the night...' yeah, I get goose bumps too. RIP to one of the Black and Silver's absolute best.
Janie & Dennis Squire
November 14, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Todd was a wonderful human being. He so graciously attended Muscular Dystrophy Muscle Team Bash events and spent time with the kids and adults suffering from neuromuscular diseases. Our son was one of those. Brandon loved Todd and appreciated his friendship. I'm sure they will reconnect on the Other Side. We are so grateful for the Plan of Salvation. Thank you for touching our lives, Todd.
Greg S.
November 14, 2013
Todd Christensen family,I am sorry for your lost your father is a stand up guy for the Oakland Raider Organization watching him play was a great joy for me.Tearing up the field.
My prayers are with your Family.
November 14, 2013
Not a big Raiders fan, but I thought he was a good player back in the day! Thoughts and prayers to his family!
JW
November 14, 2013
I am sorry for your loss. I hope you can find comfort in the words written at (Jeremiah 29:11,12)
Mike McKercher
November 14, 2013
One of my favorite Raiders of all time. So many fond memories and exciting moments Todd gave us. He will be always in my thoughts and prayers.
Patt Newbill
November 14, 2013
My sincere condolences to the family and friends of Todd Christensen. I remember the excitement that he brought to the Raiders football games.
doug,
November 14, 2013
you were a stand up gut and feared by bronco fans everywhere rock on,first and god now,r i p
Steve Bowser
November 14, 2013
My deepest sympathy to the Christensen family. Todd was not only a great Raider but, more importantly he was a great father, & husband. May God comfort you at this very difficult time.
JODY TAFOYA
November 14, 2013
John and Jody Tafoya from California send you Our thoughts and prayers to your family and friends who will miss your very caring attitude and joy. My wife Jody was on the same cruise awhile back from tahiti to austrialia after the raidiers superbowl victory. Jody had the pleasure of meeting and hanging with both of you and still remember like if it were yesterday. I hope you can remember me, I was traveling with my grandpa harry. Look at the photo that is attached. I'm the one in the middle. E-mail address is [email protected] Still the memories of both of you will last forever. Peace and Love to all you.
November 14, 2013
I have been a Raiders fan since Super Bowl Two and was a huge Todd Christensen fan during his stay with the Raiders. Such a big fan that my interns framed a Christensen jersey for me.
Guy Ransom
November 14, 2013
Sincere condolences to the family. The obituary tells me much more than I knew about Mr. Christensen. I really enjoyed watching him with the Raiders; an excellent tight end: plus, a gentleman who deserves everyone's respect. May God Bless the family!
Mary Smith
November 14, 2013
My sincere concolences to the family. God cares for your loved one and will comfort you during this sad time. 1 Pe. 5:7
Kathy Dodd
November 14, 2013
I was such a a fan of you and the Raiders. You were a great football player but from all appearances a great father and husband and that is what matters the most. My sincere sympathy to your wife and sons.
Gary Vaughan
November 14, 2013
Todd Christensen......Oakland Raiders! He'll be remembered with the greats that played in Oakland. May God Bless
Dwayne Bickham
November 14, 2013
in God's care rest in peace
Mike Kennedy
November 14, 2013
Was a Raiders season ticket holder for the 13 years that the team played in Los Angeles. You were my wife's favorite player and one of my favorites as well. The epitomy of "Pride and Poise". Rest in peace.
Harry Simpson
November 14, 2013
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Rickey
November 14, 2013
RIP , Mr.Christensen , Enjoyed watching you and the Raider's !
don cudworth
November 14, 2013
Commitment to excellence a credo that Todd lived thank you for some great memories rest in peace
Thomas M Ruley
November 14, 2013
It is almost like one my own family members has passed away. RIP Brother.
Mrs Brady
November 14, 2013
So sorry for your loss. May God comfort your family during this difficult time..
November 14, 2013
To the family of Todd Christensen, may the God of comfort help you through this difficult time.
G. Freeman
November 14, 2013
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Mike
November 14, 2013
Todd is and always will be one of my favorite Raiders. Rest in Peace
The Carters
November 14, 2013
Wow!!! What a football record, and what self-discipline it must have taken to have achieved such a record. Our heartfelt condolences to the Christensen family for the loss of a great family man and sportsman. "May the Lord of peace himself give you peace constantly in every way. May the Lord be with all of you."--2 Thessalonians 3:16.
Benjamin Davis
November 14, 2013
I used to watch the Raiders play often and was saddened to hear yesterday of Todd's passing.RIP Todd Christensen.
otto
November 14, 2013
always watched raiders to see him do his leaping catches; he was like a wild leopard when out jumping taller defenders to bring his feet back to the ground with ball in hands. rip todd ; class of 75fan;
Adrian Barnette
November 14, 2013
We'll miss you !
Todd smith
November 14, 2013
U will be missed
November 14, 2013
I had a lot of great talks and many laughs with your dad. He was a good and a great man.
Gail and I send our love.
Bob
Rick Ramos
November 13, 2013
What a sad day in Raider nation, I enjoyed watching Todd during his time with the raiders and their great team in 1983 SB champs..RIP Todd
Robert Wagenheim
November 13, 2013
Very sad day for me one my favorite Raiders RIP Mr Christensen and may GOD bless your family.
November 13, 2013
KATHY & FAMILY, Sorry to about Todd.Our Prayers and love to you all. He was a great person to know.
Aloha, Barry & Donna Wallace, formly from El Segundo and living in Cottonwood Heights, UT
lil brat gamas
November 13, 2013
Todd u were the greatest football player.our prayers 2 your family.
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