Bette Jean Christenson, 84, passed away on November 8, 2026, at Utah Valley Hospital due to complications following surgery, according to a report published November 10.
Christenson was a longtime resident of the area, having moved to Gunnison, Utah, at age 11.
Born on October 12, 1942, in Ely, Nevada, to Rignal and Twyla Jensen, Christenson moved frequently during her early childhood before settling in Gunnison. In 1962, she married Reuben Christenson, and the couple was later sealed in the Manti Temple in 1964.
Throughout her life, Christenson held various roles, including working as a seamstress, cook, waitress, and manager of a local Top Stop. She was also known for her catering work and her community generosity, notably sharing over 2,000 loaves of bread with others during one year.
A faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Christenson served in many callings and attended the temple. Her interests included riding horses, reading, playing the piano, playing Nintendo, crocheting afghans and baby blankets, and baking.
She is survived by five children: Laurie (Kevin) Shepherd, Mark (Kimberly) Christenson, Bonnie (Ron) Hoffman, Ron (Michelle) Christenson, and Sara (Jeff) Gaskins. She also leaves behind 15 grandchildren and their spouses, and 21 great-grandchildren.
Christenson was preceded in death by her husband, Reuben; her parents, Rignal and Twyla; her brother, R. Lynn Jensen; and her sister, Ilene Jensen.
Funeral services are scheduled for Friday, November 13, 2026, at the Centerfield Chapel, located at 230 South Main Street, Centerfield, UT 84622.
Visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 12:00 p.m. Interment will take place in the Gunnison City Cemetery.
