Laraine Christensen

Ruth Laraine Christensen, age 90, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2026, in Sandy, Utah.

Laraine was born on July 29, 1935, in Fairview, Utah, to Calvin O. Erickson and Ruth I. Erickson.

She attended schools in Fairview and Mount Pleasant and graduated from North Sanpete High School. In 1953, she married Harvey Tidwell Christensen, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in devotion, faith, and family. They were later sealed in the Manti Temple.

Laraine was a licensed cosmetologist, working in Fairview and Salt Lake City, before beginning a long and successful career with the Mountain Bell (AT&T) phone company. Starting as an operator, she was quickly promoted and eventually concluded her career as a supervisor and trainer, earning the respect of colleagues through her strong work ethic and leadership.

Throughout her life, Laraine found joy in playing cards-especially pinochle-crafting, crocheting beautiful afghans, completing jigsaw puzzles, and spending time with family. After retirement, she and Harvey enjoyed traveling together and making lasting memories.

A faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Laraine was active throughout her life. After moving to Mesa, Arizona, she and her husband completed a service mission and served as temple workers, in addition to holding many other callings over the years.

Laraine was preceded in death by her husband, Harvey T. Christensen; her daughter, Janice Ruth Christensen; her parents, Calvin and Ruth Erickson; her sisters Annatta, Junitta, and Coleen; and her brother, Robert.

She is survived by her sons, Philip (Gayle) H. Christensen of West Valley City and Jerry (Wendy) A. Christensen of Sandy, Utah; her four granddaughters, Elise (Cameron) Phelps, Deanna Christensen, Olivia Christensen, and Sophia Christensen; her great-grandchildren, Matthew, Alex, and Laura; and her siblings, Gerald (Kathy) Erickson of Provo, Odell (Nancy) Erickson of Orem, her loving sister Carol (Neal) Adams of Spanish Fork and extended family.

Laraine was fond of saying, "Not to brag, but I excelled at anything I put my hand to." She lived those words through her hard work, determination, and unwavering commitment to everything she undertook. Her legacy of strength, faith, and love will live on through her family for generations to come.

Funeral services will be held Friday, January 9, at the LDS Early Duke Ward, 4444 Early Duke Street, West Valley City, Utah.
The viewing will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m.
Interment will take place at Mount Pleasant City Cemetery at 2:00 p.m.