Raynold Peter Christensen

Raynold Peter Christensen, lovingly known as RP, Ray, or “Chris” to his work friends, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2025, at the age of 78.

Ray was born on October 28, 1946, to Kenneth and Aleen Christensen, whom he loved dearly. He was the third of seven children and enjoyed his childhood in Salem Utah where he learned the value of hard work by being raised on a farm. He graduated from Spanish Fork High School in 1964 and soon after enlisted in the U.S. Army. He served from 1966-68 where he was stationed in Germany. He was a Sergeant E-5 during the Vietnam Conflict. During his service he visited Germany, France, Switzerland, England, Ireland, and Belgium. Just recently, Ray had the opportunity to participate in an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., in recognition of hismilitary service. It was an experience he deeply cherished and was so thankful for the opportunity to go.

He began his career with the Union Pacific Railroad as a conductor and worked faithfully for over 42 years until his retirement. His long tenure on the railroad is a testament to his loyalty, determination, and incredible work ethic, qualities that defined him in every part of his life. He truly loved his profession and valued the relationships that he forged while working on the railroad. Even after his retirement from the railroad, he continued to stay involved with rail safety education and was a volunteer for Operation Lifesaver where he gave presentations,provided training, and attended special events to spread the word of safety near trains.

Ray married Rebecca Rigby on August 2, 1973 and later divorced. Ray was a devoted father and stepfather, he embraced her children, Abby and Mike, as his own. Together, they had two children, Katie and Matthew. He was also the father of Christopher Torlincasi, from a later relationship. Ray’s life was richly blessed by his family.

Ray loved the outdoors, especially camping and riding ATVs with his children and grandchildren. One of his favorite camping locations was Bear Lake, he started the tradition of ayearly trip each summer that lasted for decades. This has become a favorite memory of his children and grandchildren. Even though he was sick, he was still hoping for his yearly trip this summer.

He had a green thumb and took pride in his garden. He loved growing vegetables and sharing them with family and friends. He was a talented craftsman, he enjoyed upholstery work as a hobby, he would often purchase old furniture to reupholster and worked on many projects for family members. Ray enjoyed traveling and visited many locations in the United States and made countless trips to Mexico with his friends. He loved his music, particularly Enya when he wanted to relax, and Jimmy Buffett was always a hit while traveling to camping destinations.

Ray was also a beloved neighbor and friend. Known for his kindness, compassion, and quiet generosity, he built strong and lasting friendships with those around him. His neighbors admired him deeply, and his presence in their lives brought warmth, stability, and a sense of community. He will be remembered for his unwavering loyalty, strong work ethic, gentle humor, and his deep love for his family.

Raynold is survived by his children Katie (Joe) Prestwich, Matthew (Jenifer) Christensen, Christopher (Shannon) Torlincasi; grandchildren: Amanda (Zach) Henseler, Weston McKell, Brady Barnes, MaLaree (Chase) Crandall, Elissa (Robbie) Maib, Addison Prestwich, Kade Christensen, Kennedy Christensen, and Gage Christensen; great grandchildren: Gracie Henseler, Kane Henseler, and Sabrina Maib; siblings: David (Rosemary) Christensen, Julie Craig, Gayle (Kimball) Warren, Soren (Dar) Christensen, Monte (Pam) Christensen, Luann (Larry) Hansen.

Preceded in death by his parents Kenneth and Aleen Christensen, and his step children, Abby Barnes and Michael Taylor.

A memorial service to celebrate Ray’s life will be held on Saturday, June 28 at 10:30 AM, 928 Del Monte Road, Spanish Fork, Utah.