Christine Merle Nielson Straughn

Christine Merle Nielson Straughn, age 72, died on May 2, 2021 after many years of struggling with dementia. She was born on May 8, 1948 in Monticello, UT to Milton and Estella Nielson.

The memories that she was able to safeguard longest were of her childhood. With fondness, she often recounted the adventures of her seven brothers and sister growing up in their small town at the base of the Blue Mountains.

Christine graduated from Monticello High School in 1966. She was a cheerleader, Homecoming Queen, and known as the tallest girl around at 5’11”. She won the Make It With Wool sewing competition and later competed as a candidate for Miss San Juan.

She studied at LDS Business College and Weber State, leading to a career in banking. She was a loyal employee of Valley Bank & Trust through multiple acquisitions and earned promotions to Manager of the Operations Department.

Later in her career, she worked in accounting and medical billing.

Christine married Duane Straughn in 1970 and together they had two children (later divorced). As a single mother with a full-time job, she taught by example to instill the values of hard work and charity.

She raised her daughter to become a strong, independent woman. Her son learned that kindness and acceptance can define a person. She saw and spoke of the best in others.

Her father was a personal hero, and she aimed to emulate his generosity. She did not have financial means, and instead gave an abundance of her effort and spirit to her community and church.

She was especially devoted to the elderly women in her neighborhood, regularly washing and curling their hair and providing transportation.

She was a voracious reader, interrupting a good book only to consume both local daily newspapers. A talented seamstress, she sewed clothing for her family and Halloween costumes for her grandsons. She was a pet lover and doted on her cat.

She was very close with her sister or “sis,” Kathryn. Together they cheered for Elvis at the Salt Palace, rooted for the Atlanta Braves, bargain shopped, and spent endless hours talking in bed.

During each season of her life, she found the perfect friend at the perfect time. She was fortunate to enjoy tender and supportive friendships as her memory started to fade.

One of her greatest joys was becoming a grandma. She adored her twin grandsons. Babysitting from grandma always meant laughing, playing, dancing, and fantastic storytelling from the good old days. Bear hugs were inescapable.

Christine is survived by her daughter Brooke Straughn Cheney (Kevin), son William Straughn (Amanda), grandchildren Aidan Cheney and Holden Cheney, sister Kathryn Wilson, and brothers Keith Nielson (Jerri), Howard Nielson (Sandie), Mark Nielson (Pam), and Paul Nielson (Stacey).

She is preceded in death by her brothers Bill Nielson (Donna) and Steve Nielson (Mary) and her parents.

An open house will be held in her memory at Aspen Landing (6388 South Redwood Road, Taylorsville, Utah) on Monday, May 10 from 6-8 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund or the Alzheimer’s Association.