Suzanne Christensen

At 87 years of age, the remarkable Suzanne “Sue” Douglas Christensen passed away peacefully in her home on December 17, 2021, surrounded by loved ones.

Sue lived a bright and vivacious life, touching the hearts of all who knew her. She is survived by her loving husband of 65 years, Thayer Stanley Christensen, as well as their two children, Kimberly (Kelly Sheffield) and John Christensen (Joan Stevens). She is also survived by her two sisters (Joan and Karen). Of all the distinguished titles she holds, her most beloved may be that of ‘Nana’ to six grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.

A native Utahn, Sue graduated from the University of Utah in journalism and proceeded to devote more than 40 years of volunteer service to the U. She served as vice chair of the Alumni Association’s Board of Directors and co-chair of the U’s successful $35 million scholarship campaign. Sue was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from the University and a Merit of Honor Award from the Emeritus Alumni Association for her incredible contributions to the University and community. She was further recognized with the Quintus C. Wilson Alumni Achievement Award.

Sue also served as president of the Utah Museum of Natural History’s Associates Board, which prompted many memorable and enlightening field trips with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was the chair of the National Advisory Council as well as a member of the Crimson Club Board of Directors.

One of Sue’s most prized achievements was her restoration of the marvelous block ‘U’ on the mountain overlooking the University of Utah campus. Her devotion and energy as the committee chair to this cause will always be remembered, as it leaves a glowing legacy that continues to shine each night the ‘U’ lights up.

Sue began her real estate career in 1977 as a founding partner of the Ramsey Group and was subsequently named Salesperson of the Year for Salt Lake City in 1984 and awarded the Superior Achievement Award Master Status from the Salt Lake Board of Realtors.

In addition to her service at the University of Utah and her successful real estate profession, Sue held numerous leadership positions with the Junior League, Ballet West, Judge Memorial Catholic High School, Redevelopment Agency of Salt Lake, Hansen Planetarium and Utah Heritage Foundation. Sue was also a national officer of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority.

She was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- Day Saints throughout her life. She especially loved working with and serving the youth of the Church.

Most notably, Sue Christensen will always be cherished and remembered for her graceful wisdom, her flawless grammar, her loving smile, and her exemplary selflessness.

In lieu of flowers, please send donation gifts in Sue’s name directly to the Utah Museum of Natural History’s Christensen endowment fund, 301 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108.

Sue’s funeral services will be held Tuesday, December 28, 2021, at 10:00 AM, at the Federal Heights Ward building, 1300 E. Fairfax Road, Salt Lake City, Utah 84103. There will be no visitation. Those who wish to watch the service virtually through Zoom may do so with the following link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83698376534

To watch the service, you must login to your zoom account, or you can create one for free at www.Zoom.us.