August 18, 1937 — March 27, 2024 (age 86)
Mary “Jeanette” Christensen (Owen), born on August 18, 1937, in Preston, Idaho, peacefully passed away on March 27, 2024, in Preston at the age of 86. She was a loving wife, devoted sister, cherished aunt, and a pillar of her community. Jeanette married Donald Allen Christensen (1939-2013), on January 10, 1992, in the Logan Utah Temple.
With a heart full of generosity and a spirit of service, Jeanette leaves behind a legacy of kindness and compassion. She is survived by her beloved Don’s two daughters, Dawna (Christensen) Hall and DeeAnna (Christensen) Asay; her brothers, Stephen Owen (Marlene), Thomas ‘Mark’ Owen (Faye Lynn) of Preston, Idaho; and sister, Nancy (Owen) Higgs of Texas.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Christensen; parents, Milton and Marie (Hill) Owen, of Preston; her sister, Elizabeth (Owen) Anderton; and her brothers, Lyle Owen and Richard Owen, and son-in-law Jason Hall.
Jeanette’s journey was marked by her dedication to education and hard work. She graduated from Preston Senior High School in 1955 and continued her studies at Steven’s Henager School of Business in 1956. Her career was defined by her sharp mind and work ethic. She excelled in various roles within the diesel and automotive parts field in the Salt Lake Valley before returning to Preston to work at Gunnell Auto Parts. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to take ownership of the Smithfield location in 1981, turning Smithfield Auto Parts into a successful venture until her retirement in 2000.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jeanette found joy in serving her community. She was deeply involved in her church, serving as a Music Director, Primary Teacher, and Cub Scout Leader contributing her talents to various roles. Together with her late husband, Don, they embarked on three missions for The Church of Latter-day Saints, sharing their love and dedication wherever they went.
Friends and family are invited to pay their respects at the viewing to be held at Webb Mortuary, 1005 South 800 East, in Preston, Idaho, on Thursday, April 4, 2024, from 6-8 pm, and on Friday, April 5, 2024, from 10-10:45 am at the Whitney Ward Chapel, 1444 South 1600 East, Preston, Idaho, with the funeral service to follow at 11 am.
Many will honor Jeanette’s memory and her passion for giving back. Jeanette’s selfless acts of creating handmade quilts, crocheting, woodworking, sewing, and crafting brought warmth and joy to many in her community. Her legacy of generosity lives on through the gifts she shared with others.
Jeanette will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her, but her spirit of kindness and service will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched.
Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at webbmortuary.com.