Thomas Fred Christensen

Thomas Fred Christensen, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, builder, and lifelong learner, passed away peacefully at the age of 86. Born on December 31, 1938, in Tremonton, Utah, Tom lived a life defined by hard work, devotion to family, service to others, and quiet faith.

Tom was born at his grandmother’s home across from the church in Tremonton, the son of Chris Fredrick Christensen and Marjorie Ballard Christensen. Raised in Bothwell and Tremonton, Utah, he grew up learning responsibility early—milking cows, working the land, hunting for food for the family, and working alongside his father. These formative years shaped the values he carried throughout his life: work, honesty, respect, responsibility, and obedience.

On November 7, 1958, Tom married the love of his life, Joan LuWaine Evans, in the Logan Utah Temple. Their marriage of 67 years was the foundation of a remarkable family legacy. Together they raised seven children—one daughter and six sons—and built a family that grew to include 27 grandchildren and 35 great-grandchildren. Tom often said his greatest calling was to be a good husband and father, and he lived that calling fully.

Tom served in the Utah National Guard, Battery B, 145th Artillery, as a tank driver and artillery crewman. His service instilled discipline and reinforced his lifelong sense of duty. After his military service, Tom spent 41 years at Thiokol (Northrup Grunman) in aerospace and defense manufacturing, building solid rocket motors for the Minuteman missile program, Space Shuttle boosters, and other critical national projects. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Weber State College in 1970 and later managed process engineering and operations, known for his practical problem-solving skills and integrity.

A natural builder and teacher, Tom could fix, fabricate, or construct nearly anything. He loved working with his hands—making picture frames, walking canes, and gifts for his grandchildren. He was also an avid hunter and outdoorsman, a passion rooted in his youth and shared with family across generations.

Tom was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in many capacities including bishopric, bishop, high council, and as a service missionary in the Salt Lake Family History Center. Alongside Joan, he served faithfully for over two years, traveling regularly to Salt Lake City to help others discover their family histories. His faith was steady, lived quietly through service rather than words.

He also volunteered widely—serving during the 2002 Utah Olympics, helping after the Teton Dam disaster, and supporting countless community efforts. Travel with Joan and visits to children serving missions around the world brought him deep joy and perspective.

Above all, Tom cherished his family. He loved time at the cabin, Sunday dinners, pie and ice cream, storytelling, and simply being surrounded by those he loved. He believed deeply in gratitude, learning, and helping others, and he left behind not just memories, but a living legacy carried forward by generations.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife Joan, their children Helen (Wade) White, Mark (Cyndy), Joe (Terri), Rex (Angie), Jason (Dayna), Greg (Sherae), Mitch (Anna), 27 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren and siblings Margo (Dale), Dawn, D-Ann (Jerry), Louis (Linda), Debbie (Jim), Ricky (Lisa). He was preceded in death by his parents Fred & Marjorie, two siblings, Sherri & Jay R and a great grandson, Skylar Curt White.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 20th, Willard 4th Ward (80 N 100 W Willard, UT), at 11AM. Viewing that morning from 9AM – 10:30AM. Interment to follow the service in the Willard Cemetery. The service will be livestreamed and can be accessed below.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to those who have offered love and support during this time.

DISCLAIMER: WE DO NOT PAN THE CROWD AND THE CAMERA IS FIXED UPON THE PULPIT. WE WILL TRY AND LIVESTREAM THE FUNERAL SERVICE. IF WE ARE UNABLE TO DO SO, DUE TO THE INTERNET SERVICE AT THE CHURCH, A RECORDING WILL BE UPLOADED WITHIN 24-48 HOURS AFTER THE SERVICE.