Donald J. Christensen

Donald J. Christensen, 72, of Rigby, passed away September 15, 2020, at Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center.

Don was born September 13, 1948, in Pocatello, Idaho, to Leo Wayne Christensen and Rhea Lacon Johnson Christensen. He grew up and attended schools in Idaho Falls, graduating from Idaho Falls High School in 1966. He also attended Ricks College and Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, where he earned his Associates Degree.

On August 9, 1973, he married Pamela Marsden in the Idaho Falls Temple. They were blessed with five children, Cori, Jeni, Dane, Quinn, and Kimball. Don and Pam were later divorced. In 1990, Don married Margaret Bain and they were later divorced. In 1997, he married Roma Duffin and became a stepfather to her children, Brian, Jenny, and Alisa, and bonus grandpa to her grandchildren. He and Roma divorced in 2014. Don made his home in Idaho Falls and Ririe where he worked in music retail at Chesbro and Mike’s Music. He spent his weekends playing music gigs all over the region. A highlight of Don’s career was when he became the director of “The Hughes Brothers” live show in Branson, Missouri. He also spent eleven Christmas seasons touring with The Bar J Wranglers.

He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in various callings throughout the years, including ward organist, choir director, and Primary pianist. Music was his passion. Together, with his best friends, they formed the band, “The Affection Collection.” They were known throughout Eastern Idaho, recorded an album, and have spent decades performing. Don enjoyed riding motorcycles, playing tennis and softball, golfing with his dad and sons, and snow skiing. Don loved his grandchildren and kept up on all of their various activities and accomplishments.

Don is survived by his loving children, Cori (Scot) Llewelyn of Orem, UT, Jeni (Matt) Clayton of Rigby, ID, Dane (Lynzi) Christensen of Kaysville, UT, Quinn (Brooke) Christensen of Kaysville, UT, Kimball (Ashlee) Christensen of Herriman, UT; stepchildren, Brian Duffin, Jenny Klingler, and Alisa Holmes, all of Idaho Falls; brother, David (Norma) Christensen of Ucon, ID; and 20 grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Rhea Christensen.

The family would like to express their appreciation to Matt and Jeni for opening their home to Don for the past three years. 

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, September 21, 2020, at the Victor City Cemetery. The family encourages all who attend services to bring a chair. The family will visit with friends from 6:30-8 p.m. Sunday at Wood Funeral Home East Side, 963 S. Ammon Road. Please wear masks and observe social distancing guidelines.