Chris Petersen

Chris Leo Petersen, aged 76, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 25, surrounded by his loving family after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Chris was born on October 6, 1949, in Brigham City, Utah, to John H. Petersen and Jacqueline Gilbert Petersen.

As a boy, Chris spent his days making memories with his family that would shape the rest of his life. He worked alongside his dad fixing cars, learning mechanical skills and a strong work ethic that stayed with him forever. Together they hunted, fished, camped, and spent summers on the water. Chris was an exceptional water skier, a talent he enjoyed for many years. He also loved baseball, playing Little League with his dad proudly serving as his coach and his mom faithfully keeping score. In high school, he discovered golf—a game that became a lifelong passion and one of his greatest joys. He graduated from Box Elder High School in 1967 and earned his Engineering degree from Weber State University in 1973.

On September 13, 1973, Chris married Jan Stanger, in Ogden, Utah. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Ogden Temple. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories.

Chris enjoyed a successful career as an engineer, spending most of it as an Aerospace Engineer at Thiokol. He took great pride in helping build rockets that contributed to the nation's aerospace and defense programs and was respected for his dedication, integrity, and strong work ethic.

Outside of work, Chris found joy in working with his hands and spending time outdoors. Whether he was building something in his workshop, landscaping the yard, tending his vegetable garden, or working on a car, he was happiest when creating or improving something. He loved sharing his passions with his family—teaching his children sports, taking them camping, and passing along the skills and values he had learned throughout his life. Golf remained one of his greatest loves, and he enjoyed both playing rounds with friends and spending weekends watching tournaments. A gifted craftsman, Chris could build or repair just about anything, and he took great pride in using his talents to help those around him.

Chris made friends easily and treasured the lifelong friendships he built over the years. Some of his happiest times were spent with friends at Lake Powell, on camping trips with family and friends, golfing, or gathered around a card table sharing stories and laughter.

Chris was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and faithfully served in many callings throughout his life.

More than anything, Chris will be remembered as a loving husband, incredible father, proud grandfather, caring brother, and loyal friend. His quiet strength, generous heart, willingness to help others, and the example he set through his hard work and unwavering love for his family will continue to inspire all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives he touched.

Chris is survived by his wife of 53 years Jan; his sister, Tammy Cutler; his children, Ryan and Heidi; Stefanie and Bryan; Michelle; Jamie; and Erik; and his cherished grandchildren, Trevor, Joshua, and Addi, who brought him endless joy. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Jackie Petersen; his brother, Rod Petersen; and his brother-in-law, Bill Cutler.

We would like to thank Raintree Assisted Living, Chenoa Poulsen and the Inspiration Hospice team for the compassionate care they gave to Chris.

In lieu of flowers, please contribute to a charity of your choice.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Myers Mortuary, 250 North Fairfield Road, Layton, Utah. Viewing with visitation will be Tuesday, June 30, 2026 from 6-8 p.m. and Wednesday prior to services from 10-10:30 a.m. Interment will be at Evergreen Memorial Park, 100 Monroe Blvd, Ogden, Utah.

Services will be live streamed.