Marzell Christiansen Downs
HYRUM, Utah -- Marzell Christiansen Downs, 83, passed
away peacefully at her home on Sunday morning,
November 13, 2005. She was born on February 21, 1922,
in Hyrum, the second child of Aaron Christiansen and
Rosa Zilles Christiansen.
She married Weslie J. Downs
of Smithfield on December 23, 1941. They were sealed
in the Salt Lake Temple on September 18, 1942. They
were blessed with three wonderful children: Richard
and Leslie Wuthrich, Logan; Steven and Linda Downs,
Hyrum; Steven and Judy Kennedy, Friday Harbor,
Washington.
She is survived by her husband Wes, her
children, and nine grandchildren: Erin Wuthrich, Kent
and Katie Wuthrich, Bonnie Wuthrich; TaraLee Downs,
Christopher Downs, Bradley and Jamie Downs, Trevor
Downs; Kimberly Kennedy, Kelsey Kennedy; and one
great-granddaughter, Sophie Wuthrich.
Marzell graduated from South Cache High School and
attended beauty school. She was introduced to Wes
through her sister, Cloteel, who was dating his twin,
Les. They settled in Smithfield and soon after moved
to Hyrum. As an active member of the Hyrum Saddle
Club and Hyrum Civic Club, she made numerous
contributions to the development of Hyrum. She was
active in the L.D.S. Church, serving in many positions
in all the auxiliaries.
Horses were an important part of their family’s life.
Her American Saddler, Fox, was a familiar sight in
parades and rodeos. A beautiful stud from Colorado,
named Poudre Paul, was added to the farm and produced
many fine racing quarter horses. Many wonderful years
were spent traveling around Utah, Idaho and Montana
with the race horses.
Marzell worked as a beautician for many years. She
had a beauty shop in her home and enjoyed the many
friends and patrons that frequented her salon.
Her hobbies included sewing, crocheting, painting,
reading, and growing beautiful flowers. She enjoyed
lunching with her friends in the Do-Nothing-Club. She
appreciated their support and association. She was an
excellent cook, preparing memorable meals for her
friends and family.
A devoted sports fan, she played
softball on a city league before getting married.
During her later years she enjoyed watching the Utah
Jazz, Denver Broncos and Atlanta Braves.
Marzell is also survived by brothers: Dale and Pauline
Christiansen, Sandy; LaGrande and Mamie Christiansen,
Hyrum; sisters: Cloteel (Larsen) and George
Wilkinson, Providence; Joan and Denzel Datwyler,
Logan; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, older
brother Gordon, and younger sister Rose MaRee
Pilkington.
Funeral services will be held Friday, November 18,
2005, at noon in the Hyrum Thirteenth Ward, 95 North
400 West, with Bishop Tim Nielsen conducting. Friends
may call Thursday, 6 to 8 pm at the Allen-Hall
Mortuary, 34 East Center Street, Logan, and Friday,
prior to the funeral, from 10:30 to 11:45 at the
church. Burial will be at the Hyrum City Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the
Hyrum City Library Fund.
Thank you, Dad, for being such a loving caregiver.
We’ll miss you Mom!
Condolences may be sent to the family and a register
book signed at Allen Mortuaries.