Gregory Jess Christen

G. Jess Christen, 61 years old, of Mapleton, Utah, passed away peacefully on October 12, 2025, in his family home. Jess was born to Ray LeRoy Christen and Maurine Egan. He married the love of his life, Amy Paramore, on April 17, 1981, and together they built a life centered on family and community.

Jess’s story was one of grit, devotion, and enduring love. He began his greatest adventure at just sixteen years old when he started his family, fully dedicating his life to Amy and their children. A talented athlete, Jess wrestled for BYU, where he developed a love of discipline and hard work that would define his life. He went on to work as an educator, where his steady presence, sense of humor, and genuine care left lasting impressions on countless students and colleagues. Jess had a gift for connecting with others—often with a quick wit and an easy smile. After years of service in his profession, Jess retired from his primary career to do what mattered most to him—spend quality time with those he loved. He created endless cherished memories on camping trips, exploring the outdoors, and traveling the world alongside his closest friends. His faith was the quiet strength behind everything he did, and he gave freely of his time coaching youth sports, and lending a helping hand wherever it was needed.

Jess is survived by his five children: Colter (Laurissa) of Santaquin, Kenyon (Keishla) of Mapleton, Courtney (Steve) of Mapleton, Caleb (Kelani) of Mapleton, and Kylie (Jeff) of Mapleton, and by his 17 grandchildren, spanning in age from 2 to 20 years old. He is preceded in death by his parents Ray and Maurine, and brother, Steve. Jess will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend—a man who loved deeply, worked tirelessly, and left a lasting impact on everyone he met.

A viewing and funeral service will be held for our dear friend and father, Jess Christen:

The viewing will take place on Sunday, October 19th, from 6:00-8:00 p.m., at Wheeler & Sundberg Funeral Homes located at 82 W 400 N, Mapleton, Utah.

A second viewing will be held on Monday, October 20th, from 9:00-10:30 a.m. at the Church, prior to the funeral service.

Funeral services will follow on Monday, October 20th, at 11:00 a.m., at the LDS Church, located at 475 N 1600 W, Mapleton, Utah 84664. Interment will take place after the funeral services at the Mapleton Cemetery, located at 620 W Maple St, Mapleton, Utah 84664.

Condolences may be expressed to the family on this page.