Kristine Marie Burch

Kristine Marie Thompson Burch, 79, of Farmington, Utah, passed away on March 6, 2026, surrounded by family after courageously fighting cancer for four years.

Born on February 11, 1947, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, Kristine was the daughter of Douglas Mont Thompson and Dorothy Hansen Thompson. She grew up in the Idaho Falls area and graduated from Bonneville High School. She went on to earn an associate degree from Ricks College, a bachelor’s degree in English from Weber State University, and a master’s degree in remedial reading from Loyola Marymount University.

One of her greatest passions was working with high-risk students. She believed deeply in their potential, often before they believed in themselves. She helped students find their voices, express their thoughts through writing and poetry, and taught them skills they would carry for years. Many of her former students have shared the impact she had on them, which changed the trajectory of their lives.

On February 28, 1968, she married the love of her life, Dan Frank Burch. Together they built a home centered on faith, strength, education, unconditional love, and fun. Kristine was the proud mother of seven children: Graig Burch, Danielle Watts (Bret), Jessica Coburn (Brent), Lisa Francis, Joshua Burch (Crysta), Nathan Burch (Melissa), and Jacob Burch (Emily). She was also the beloved grandmother of 13 grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense joy and pride.

She was always ready for the next adventure, whether it was traveling to places that felt alive with beauty, enjoying musicals and plays, dancing, jogging and walking with friends, or simply sharing a Coke and a good dessert with family.

She was a trusted confidant and wise counselor. People listened when she spoke because her advice was thoughtful, practical, and filled with love. She wanted success and happiness for others and took great joy in watching them achieve it. She raised children who followed diverse paths - from tattoo artists to executives, doctors to accountants, teachers and chefs.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Dan; her seven children; her 13 grandchildren; and her two sisters, Julie Kienlin and Michelle Ball. She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Linda Flowers; and her brother, Tommy Thompson.

A viewing will be held Friday, March 13, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Russon Mortuary, 1941 North Main Street, Farmington, Utah. Another viewing will precede the funeral on Saturday, March 14, from 9:45 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at Quail Flight Ward Chapel, 850 North 300 West, Farmington, Utah. A funeral service will be held directly after at the chapel beginning at 11:00 a.m.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to Canyon Hospice for their compassionate care and support, especially Carly Sotelo, for her calm and loving presence.

Kristine will be deeply missed. We will always hold her sparkly green eyes and genuine smile in our hearts. Her light continues to shine through her family, her students, and all who were fortunate enough to know her.