Lydia Marlene Christensen

On August 17, 2025, our beloved Lydia Marlene Christensen passed away peacefully at the age of 90 surrounded by loved ones. She was born on December 29, 1934, in Burley, Idaho, to James Clifford and Lydia Samantha (Lee) Thompson, and grew up in Rupert, Idaho where she enjoyed a happy childhood.

At 16 years old Marlene fell in love with John William (Bill) Christensen. They were married on April 30, 1951, in the Salt Lake City, Utah Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Together they shared 68 loving years of marriage and raised nine children. Due to Bill’s military service the family lived in 15 different cities over the years and although this was challenging, Marlene stayed strong and cheerful through it all.

Marlene dedicated her life to her family. As a homemaker she lovingly taught and cared for her children. She always strived to point them to God and dedicated a portion of her time to serving in her church. Everyone who came into her home felt welcomed and loved. She had a warm smile and hug that always made you feel a part of the family.

She was a woman of many talents, such as sewing, crocheting, cross-stitch, embroidery, canning and cooking. Marlene had a love of reading and delighted in cheering on her children and grandchildren in their sporting events. For many years, she and Bill enjoyed square dancing together making many memories with friends.

Marlene is survived by her children Becky Gamble (Rick), Lorna Johnson, Jay Christensen, Rex Christensen (Tamra), Gary Christensen (Mary), and Laurie Christensen and by her sisters Darlene Hammond and Carol Sloat. She was preceded in death by her husband John William (Bill) Christensen, her children Pamela Christensen, Jeanette Pistorious, and Randy Christensen, her siblings Maxcene Mercer, Lloyd Thompson, Ray Thompson, Leroy Thompson, Lyle Thompson, and Paul Thompson.

Her greatest joy was her posterity. She is lovingly remembered by 34 grandchildren, 62 great grandchildren, and 4 great- great grandchildren who love and adore her.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located at 2530 Boone Rd SE, Salem, Oregon. The viewing is at 10:00 a.m. followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m.

She was loved by all who met her. She will be dearly missed, but memories of her are forever in our hearts.