Henry "Hank" Nelson Christiansen Obituary (1936 - 2024)

Henry “Hank” Nelson Christiansen February 5, 1936 – May 15, 2024. Hank passed from this earthly life at the age of 88 due to natural causes. He was born in Pocatello, Idaho, to his parents Jerald Emmett Christiansen and Rebecca Henderson Nelson. Hank spent his early childhood in Davis, California. He and his older brother, Jerald (“Jerry”) Nelson Christiansen had many rambunctious adventures together which continued when the family moved to Logan, Utah. Hank had a love for knowledge and attended Utah State University where he earned a BS in Mathematics following which he earned a MS in Engineering Mathematics and a PhD in Civil Engineering Mechanics from Stanford University. After completing his education, he lived most of his life with his family in Provo, Utah. Working hard and effectively was one of Hank’s talents. From a young boy mowing lawns, farming with his grandfather Nelson, and selling garden raised vegetables, to computer programing, graphic design, and teaching students, Hank succeeded. His love for knowledge was shared for 48 years as a Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Brigham Young University where he was fondly known by his students as Dr. C. Throughout his educational and professional life, he acquired many skills. Hank had numerous opportunities to travel and share his knowledge. He always looked for ways to include his family in his travels. Beautiful memories were made on these trips with Marie, Barbara, David, Stephen, and his mother-in-law Irene Holt. Along with academia, Hank had a love for sports and social activities. He enjoyed track, baseball, basketball, and snow and water skiing. He was elected class president his senior year in college. Throughout college he shared a strong bond with his fellow Sigma Chi fraternity brothers that would last a lifetime. Hank was a proud member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served in many capacities throughout his life. He and his family loved their time serving while they were members of the BYU 35th Branch where he served as Branch President. During the last years of his life, he faithfully served at the Bishop’s Storehouse in Orem. Religion, service, sports, academia, and family all played a large role in Hank’s life. However, what he was most proud of was his family. Marie Holt and Hank were married on March 26, 1958, in the Salt Lake Temple. They were blessed with 3 amazing children, Barbara, David, and Stephen. They made many memories as they traveled the world, spent time together as a family at Lake Powell, and supported each other in their various hobbies and sports. Marie was an amazing mother and tragically passed away from cancer at the age of 58. Following Marie’s death, Hank married Barbara Jean Oldham. They spent many wonderful years together and loved spending time with her daughters, Holly and Shelly, and their families. They made many memories as they traveled the world together. Hank is survived by his children, Barbara (Larry) Larsen, David (Jolene) Christiansen, and Stephen (Jennifer) Christiansen, his 12 grandchildren, and his 21 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jerald and Rebecca, his brother Jerry, and his wives Marie and Barbara. At Hank’s request, a private graveside ceremony will be held with internment in the Orem City Cemetery with a gravestone reference at the Clearfield City Cemetery. The family would like to express appreciation to Regan and Simon with Inspiration Home Health and Hospice and Legacy House of Park Lane for their compassionate care during the final months of Hank’s life.