Sunday, August 3, 2014

In loving memory: Grandma Christensen



Yvonne Chamberlain Christensen passed away peacefully Friday, July 25, 2014, while asleep in her home in Monticello, Utah.

Born December 23, 1934 to Wilford “Hugh” and Ramona (Anderson) Chamberlain, she is predeceased by her parents and a grandson: Alex Davis. She has lived a full life and sacrificed much for her family. She will be missed by all who know her. Her sunny disposition and constant optimism cheered all those with whom she came in contact. A member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she had a very strong testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ. She served other people tirelessly, sending 6 of her children on full-time missions, and encouraging many grandchildren to follow suit. She served in presidencies for the Primary and Relief Society in her local wards.

As a child, Yvonne lived in St. George, Utah; Provo, Utah; Alton, Utah; Logandale, Nevada; and Orderville, Utah where she graduated from Valley High School. She later graduated from Dixie Junior College in the spring of 1955. She married John William Burr in St George, Utah June 7, 1955. They had 14 children and, while raising their children, lived in Germany, California, Illinois, Missouri, and Utah. The two divorced in February of 1977.

In 1980, Yvonne graduated from Brigham Young University with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. She subsequently taught for ten years in the Alpine School District, Utah, at Geneva Elementary, Cedar Fort Elementary, and Suncrest Elementary.

Yvonne loved her children and made her life to revolve around them. Music was an integral part of her life and became a steady feast of love for her and her family. She and her children spent many hours gathered around her piano singing to her accompaniment. Additionally, she encouraged her children to learn to play musical instruments and become involved in music both in church and school. Her love for her family was often expressed through music and gathering to sing.

Yvonne married Hyram J. “Buckley” Christensen on March 29, 1996 and the two were sealed for eternity in the Provo, Utah Temple on June 11, 1996. She found tremendous, renewed joy and happiness with Buckley. They made their home in Monticello, Utah. Together, they spent many happy days roaming the countryside of San Juan County, counting deer and looking for bears. There she served in the Monticello Family History Center from 2003-2006. She became a member of the Daughters of Utah Pioneers organization and enjoyed fellowship with them.

Yvonne is survived by her husband, Hyrum J. “Buckley” Christensen and her 14 children and their spouses. Sons: John Clark Burr and William Jason Burr (Amy). Daughters: Deslie Ann Burr Davis (Gordan), Mary Lynn Burr Major (Drew), Susan Kay Burr Swanson (Gale), Laurie Jean Burr Gerow, Carol Burr Warner (Jeff), Joan Burr Bunting (Doug), Janine Elise Burr Converse (Curtis), Raven Chandler (Davee), Linda Michaels Laine (Ken), Janet Ellen Burr Nelson (Bryan), Jennifer Lea “Jen” Burr Budge, and Wendi Elizabeth Burr Dabbs (Keith).

She is also survived by 5 brothers and sisters: Fae Donna Graf (Garry); John David Chamberlain (Donna); Lucille Carden (Earl); Sherry Misel (John); and Brent Chamberlain (Kathy). Also surviving are 2 Stepsons and 3 Stepdaughters: Monte, Mike, Marylee, Marsha and Mitzi as well as their spouses and children.
Yvonne also leaves 44 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren and many, many nieces and nephews.

A viewing will be held from 10:00 to 11:30 AM at the North Chapel (next to the temple) in Monticello, Utah with funeral services to follow at 12:00.


We weren't able to go to her funeral but Steve's Aunt provided these pictures.









No comments:

Post a Comment

Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.