Larry Stoddard Christensen passed away at age 82 on Tuesday September 11, 2025 at the Portneuf Medical Center in Pocatello, Idaho.
Larry was born on January 12, 1943 in Pocatello, Idaho. He attended Idaho State University where he earned his bachelor’s degree in physics and his master’s degree in nuclear physics. He then earned a PhD in atmospheric physics from the University of Nevada. His career took him to Tennessee where he worked with the United States Air Force on projects ranging from solving atmospheric physics for the space shuttle program to nuclear physics issues associated with satellites and aerial defense.
Larry served as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Brazil South Mission and then later served as a Mission President in the Porto Alegre, Brazil mission. He also served as a Branch President and Bishop for multiple units of the Church. In addition, he served as the director at the Pocatello Family History Center for many years. He was an avid genealogist and submitted tens of thousands of names for temple use.
He enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, golfing, ping pong, and running.
Larry is survived by his wife, Linda Christensen, his three children, Wendy Graham, Celeste’ Russell, and David Christensen, seventeen grandchildren, and fourteen great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, Rex and Kathryn Christensen and his son, Jason Christensen.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1701 Bartz Drive, Pocatello, ID. A viewing will be held prior, beginning at 10:00 am. Burial will follow the service at Mountain View Cemetery, 1520 S 5th Avenue, Pocatello, ID.
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Mountain View Cemetery
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