Odell Christensen

September 30, 1918 - October 4, 2014

Lars Odell Christensen lived 96 incredible years before he passed away on October 4, 2014. He was born September 30, 1918 in Chesterfield Idaho to Harris and Robenia Bodily Christensen. The fourth of eight children, Odell learned how to love, work hard, and play on his family’s farm. Odell was the first member of his family to attend college. He attended BYU where he graduated Magna Cum Laud with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Accounting. While at BYU he met Margaret June West while performing at a Janie Thompson assembly. The women lined up on one side and the men lined up on the other. They were paired off and Odell was paired to June. They were soon married and just over a year later moved to California where Odell earned his Certified Public Accounting certificate. They stayed in California five years working for an accounting firm. Odell and June returned to Orem Utah, where Odell began his work for the United States Steel Company in their internal auditing department traveling to Europe, South Africa, and South America. He was transferred to Pittsburgh PA where he headed the Eastern Area Auditing Department. Odell would focus his life in three areas – his dedication to his faith in God, his love of hard work, and his love of family. Odell served faithfully in many callings for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and was an example of those ideals he believed. He was happiest when he was working, but especially when that work involved helping and serving others. He never thought of himself. Odell and June have seven children– Lars, deceased (Janielle Hildbrant), Susan (Ralph Ryser), Karen (Bruce Haslam), Judy (David Keller), Mark (Wendy Gideon), Paul, and Janis (Joe Fetters). His children will always remember how much they loved working, skiing, playing and just being with him. Odell is survived by his wife, June Christensen; sister, Gail Gardner; and brother Clyde Christensen. Funeral Services will held on Saturday, October 11th at the Cascade 4th Ward, 1051 East 200 North, Orem, Utah, at 12:00 p.m., you may visit with the family prior to services from 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Funeral Directors: Utah Valley Mortuary.