Joseph Campbell Christiansen

Joseph C. Christiansen 1922 ~ 2015 On Monday, May 18, 2015, in Sandy, Utah, our beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, hero and cherished friend, Joseph Campbell Christiansen, peacefully passed away. He was reunited in heaven with his eternal sweetheart, June (Child), as his remaining family bid him a tearful and heartfelt, but temporary goodbye. Joe's mischievous grin first graced the home of his parents, Kristian John and Hansine Christiansen August 14, 1922 in Salt Lake City, Utah. He grew into a strapping lad as he, together with his four brothers and one sister, grew up on Girard Avenue. They loved laughing and playing with each other in the fields behind Salt Lake City's Capitol building. By the time he arrived at West High School, Joe was 6'1 and 220 lbs and the football coach begged him to come out for the team. But the Great Depression was on and Joe had to work after school to help support the family. While serving with distinction in the Army Signal Corps, Army Air Corp and Air Force during WWII from 1940-46, Joe met and briefly courted his lovely wife, June. They were married May 14, 1942 in Vancouver, WA and then sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple, October 28, 1942. Joe also served his country in the USAFR, 1946-1950 and the US Air Force during the Korean Conflict, 1950-1952. He was proud of the fact he rose in rank from Private to Captain during his time in the service. As an extraordinary sales and business man, Joe experienced success throughout his career first for Salt Lake Hardware Co., then as an independent Manufacturers' Representative and finally for Home Depot. Joe was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and held various positions including Sunday School Superintendent, Elders Quorum President, Stake Young Men's Presidency, High Priests Group Counselor, and Ordinance Worker at the Jordan River Temple. But the church position he will most be remembered for is undoubtedly Scoutmaster. He loved scouting and all the boys loved him! He helped hundreds of boys get their Eagle Scout Award over the many years. Joe was a registered scouter for fifty years, serving also as Troop Committee Chairman, Stake Scout Representative, District Vice Chairman of Scouting, District Advancement Chairman and Council Awards Committee Member. He earned the highest award in volunteer scouting, the prestigious "Silver Beaver Award". However, Joe's greatest love was clearly reserved for his family especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will forever be known as "Grandpa Joe" and "Grandpa Bear" because of his famous "bear hugs". He was so patient, teaching each one of us to water ski for the first time. We loved boating on the "Happy Makers", especially at Bear Lake and Lake Powell. His enthusiasm for hiking and exploring in Southern Utah was infectious. He delighted in sharing his knowledge of the ancient Indian culture and places. It was so much fun to be around him his stories, Bingo on Thanksgiving and his cheese and crackers spread on Christmas Eve. He is survived by 4 children: Janet Kae (Ralph) Hathaway, Cathy Jean (Daniel) Clark, Jerilyn (David) Renfroe, Barney Byron Child (Merrilee) Christiansen; 24 grandchildren "We love you Grandpa for all the memories we will have forever" Love ~ Lori, Rich, Sherilyn, Steven, Scott, Tyler, Alison, Jeff, Doug, Rob, Brian, Heather, Allen, Jena, Kathryn, Kevin, Karen, Corey, Justin, Cheryl, Dan, Mike, Aaron and Troy; 55 great-grandchildren; brother Jerry (Barbara) Christiansen and Gene (Rene) Christiansen. Although many have helped in one way or another, the family wishes to express special appreciation to Joe's daughter, Cathy Clark, for her devoted and tireless attention to his every need during the last several years. Joe will be greatly missed by all who knew him and whose lives he touched. His truly was A Wonderful Life! Funeral services will be held Tuesday, May 26, 2015, 12:00 noon at the River 5th Ward, 1380 West 6785 South, where viewings will be held Monday, May 25, 2015, 6-8 p.m. and Tuesday, 10:30-11:30 a.m. prior to services. Interment, Salt Lake City Cemetery. Under the direction of McDougal Funeral Home. Place of Birth:Salt Lake City, UtahPlace of Death:Sandy, UtahHobbies:Scouting, boating,hiking, Ancient Indian Culture,GamesOccupation:Manufacturer's Representative