Russell Christen

Russell Clark Christen, 93, passed away November 28th 2013 at his home in Salt Lake City.

Russell was part of what many have said was the “Greatest Generation”. He rose from poverty to typify the American Dream. He was born in Storrs Utah (Spring Canyon) on June 4th 1920. He was one of twelve children born to Ernest and Clara Jaggi (Christen). His family lived in Utah County for the majority of his early life.
He married Dorothy Hansen October 15th 1941. They were sealed in the Los Angeles Temple in 1957. Russell & Dorothy had four children. The late Russell H. Christen, Kent C. Christen of Nampa Idaho, Mary Laura Christen (Mulliner) of Magna, Utah, & Dan Lyle Christen of Boise, Idaho.

Russ joined the Army just weeks before Pearl Harbor as a Private and retired as a Major in 1964. During his career he served in Germany for seven years, Korea, and postings throughout the west. He attended Officer Candidate School during World War 2 and received his commission. He also earned an Associate Degree from the University of Maryland. Russ received the Commendation Medal for his service in Tooele Utah. After retiring Russ and his family moved to Bountiful, Utah. He spent several years working with Barton Truck Company, Castleton’s, and Cencor. Russ created SOS Temporary Services along with his business partner Richard Reinhold. At his retirement, SOS had grown to be a major player in the temporary help industry in the western United Sates.

Russ married Delilah Anderson Hart in 1974 after the death of his first wife Dorothy. They have been married for 39 years. Russ treated his stepsons, Randy Hart (Salt Lake City, UT) and Corey Hart (Sacramento, CA) as his own. Between his children and Delilah’s they have 19 grandchildren who Russ helped support through college and missions.

Russ made a major impact in the lives of so many people who consider him a friend, husband, father and grandfather. All will miss him. The steady hand of his influence will affect generations to come.

Funeral services will be held Friday, December 6th at 11 a.m. At Millcreek 2nd Ward Chapel, 4220 South Jeannine St. (420 East). There will be viewing one hour prior to the services. Interment – Provo City Cemetery.