Elena Christensen Yeates

Elena Christensen Yeates, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, and teacher, was born on July 15, 1945, to Miriam Doris and G. Leon Christensen. Elena was raised with strong values of learning, perseverance, and humor, which shaped the rest of her life. She had an extraordinary closeness with her parents that extended until their deaths.

Elena graduated from West High School in 1963 and went on to earn a degree in Elementary Education from the University of Utah in 1967, after which she taught fifth grade at Western Hills Elementary School for three years. She was a dedicated teacher who loved her students. She enjoyed snow skiing and playing tennis.

In the summer of 1969, Elena married Bob. Their early years together were soon marked by tragedy when Elena suffered a massive stroke in June of 1970. Through remarkable determination and resilience, she relearned how to walk, talk, and do everything with her non-dominant hand, including cooking, writing, and caring for a home and three children. This perseverance became a defining feature of her life and an enduring example to those who knew her. Elena had many spiritual gifts, the utmost being her unwavering faith in the Lord and charity toward all. The most important focus of her life, and her greatest joy, was the family that she and Bob created.

Elena was preceded in death by her parents, Miriam Doris and G. Leon, and her brothers, Curt (Yvonne) and Dan (Nanci). She is survived by her devoted and eccentric husband, Robert; her three children: Melissa (Matt), Tyler (Kellie), and Drew; nine grandchildren: Brooke (Sam), Ethan (Ericka), Seth, Theo, Milo, Quinn, River, Olive, and Mabel; and one great-granddaughter, Margaret. Elena cross-stitched a keepsake for each of her grandchildren when they were born. This became progressively more difficult to accomplish, but that didn’t stop her; she cleverly chose smaller designs as the years went on.

Elena loved to read and remained intellectually curious throughout her life. She had the most delightful laugh and self-deprecating humor, which brought lightness even in difficult moments. Those closest to her will remember her quiet strength, sharp mind, lack of patience, and deep love for her family and friends.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the many people who cared for and supported Elena, making it possible for her to stay in her home until death, especially Nan, Miranda, Sam, Kristy, Lucy, Dominga, and Marcos. Their kindness and dedication meant more than words can express.

Elena’s life was one of courage, grace, kindness, and love. She will be deeply missed.

A celebration of Elena’s life will be held on January 30th and 31st:

Family and friends are welcome to pay their respects on Friday, January 30th, 2026, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Russon Mortuary, located at 295 N. Main St., Bountiful, Utah. This informal gathering is in lieu of a traditional viewing.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., at the Maple Hills Chapel, located at 1320 E. 1975 S., Bountiful, Utah, with an open house preceding the services from 9:00-9:45 a.m.

Services will be streamed live on the Russon Mortuary Live Facebook page and on this obituary page. The live-stream will begin about 10-15 minutes prior to the service and will be posted below.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your favorite charity.