Richard Konnerup Kristensen passed away on October 8, 2024, and reunited with our beloved mother and brother, Barbara Feild Kristensen and Gary Kristensen, and other loved ones waiting to greet him.
Born in Hjørring, Denmark, Richard's life was a testament to the value of family, hard work, faith, and service to others. Growing up on his family's farm, Richard learned early on the importance of dedication and the strength of a family working together. His family was introduced to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and he was baptized on April 8, 1951. His service in the church started at the early age of 20 when he was called as a branch president. His service continued after he immigrated to the United States. He remained an active, faithful church member for the remainder of his life.
In his twenties, Richard moved to Utah, where he met the love of his life, Barbara Lynn Feild. They were sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake City Temple on September 7, 1961. Together, they built a beautiful life and a family of nine wonderful children. Richard's love for his family was evident in every interaction, and his children cherish the warmth, affection, and support he abundantly shared.
Richard proudly served as a United States Army Reserves member, honorably serving his country. His values of duty, respect, and selfless service, both on active duty and as a reservist, helped him earn an honorable discharge.
A man of many talents, his musical abilities with the guitar, accordion, and singing brought joy to many, and his skills in judo and boxing demonstrated his strength and discipline.
A 61-year member of IBEW Local 354 and a Master Electrician, Richard provided for his family's needs through his expertise and hard work ethic. He worked on and supervised many projects in the Salt Lake Valley, including two renovation projects of the Salt Lake City Temple, National Lead, Jordan River Temple, the Layton Hills Mall, the milk plant at Welfare Square, Trolley Theaters, Hill Air Force Base and even lighting on the runways at the Salt Lake City International Airport to name a few. To his fellow workers, he was known as “Swiss Kriss.” Richard maintained his Electrical Certification well into retirement.
In the last 15 years of his career, Richard worked for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as the building engineer for the Church Computer Center. His position required him to return to school to learn how to manage the center's power backup systems and generators.
Richard showed love through service. He always used his talents to help family, friends, and neighbors with home improvement emergencies and support. After his retirement, he kept a truck loaded with tools ready to help others at a moment's notice.
Above all, Richard's legacy is one of love, devotion, and service. His children are forever grateful for the love he showed them and hold dear the lessons he taught them. Richard's life is a shining example of what it means to live with purpose, passion, faith in Jesus Christ, and an unwavering commitment to those you love.
Dad, we will miss your infectious laughter, kindness, and “hyggelig” (enjoyment and comforting) personality you brought to those around you. Although you leave an enormous hole in our lives, your legacy will live on in your stories for generations to come.
Richard leaves behind his beloved children John Kristensen (Talana), Rick Kristensen (Carol), David Kristensen (Trasi), Marie Abbott (Jim), Robert Kristensen (Paula), Paul Kristensen (Kristin), Sara Kristensen (Charlie Price), and Anna Peterson (Mark); his sister Maria Hundrup; and twenty-one grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
Friends and family may pay their respects on Thursday evening, October 24, 2024, from 6:00-8:00 p.m., at Russon Mortuary, 295 North Main Street, Bountiful, Utah, and Friday morning from 9:45-10:45 a.m., at the Orchard Stake Center, 3599 S. Orchard Drive in Bountiful, prior to services.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 25, 2024, at the Bountiful Utah Orchard Stake Center. Interment will be at the Bountiful City Cemetery, 2224 South 200 West, Bountiful, Utah 84010.
Services will be streamed live on the Russon Mortuary Live Facebook page and on this obituary page. The live stream will begin 10-15 minutes prior to services and will be posted below.
Our family would like to give special thanks to the Creekside Bountiful and Hospice Care staff. You gave our father and family so much comfort, and we will forever be grateful to you.
Donations to the Alzheimer’s Association in lieu of flowers are appreciated. If you wish to send flowers, please arrange for delivery to Russon Mortuary before October 24, 2024, at 4:00 p.m.
Thursday, October 24, 2024
6:00 - 8:00 pm (Mountain time)
Russon Mortuary & Crematory - Bountiful
Friday, October 25, 2024
9:45 - 10:45 am (Mountain time)
Orchard Stake Center
Friday, October 25, 2024
11:00am - 12:00 pm (Mountain time)
Orchard Stake Center
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