Eulogy for Riley Scott Christensen

Here is the eulogy I wrote about myself a few weeks ago. Sorry it has taken so long to get it up. Enjoy!

My dad was never a very big person, at least not in stature. But that never stopped him from living a big life. When he was as senior in high school, my dad was 5’5” and a 125 pounds, but still played on the varsity football team. His dad always told him to “Live Big”. My dad lived by the saying, “Go big or go home.” Dad lived a big life.

Dad lived big in his business endeavors. He always dreamed of being successful, and he was. In college dad graduated top of his class at BYU and then attended the University of Washington Dental School. He then graduated from Ohio State’s Orthodontic program. Dad moved back to Washington State to begin his long career as an orthodontist at the top of his field. Dad was an innovator, and a leader in his work. He created many advancements to make orthodontics easier and more efficient, as well as less expensive. He was known throughout the country as the developer of the Scotts device. Dad and his brother went into business together later in their lives to develop and manage a new resort at the Gorge, a popular outdoor amphitheater where many popular bands play, in the town of George Washington. The Hacé Resort is still very popular and thriving. Dad lived big in his everyday business adventures.

Dad loved helping people and couldn’t get enough of it, so it was no surprise when he created an outreach program in his small hometown of Royal City, Washington to give dental care to those who can’t afford it. Dad’s “Don’t Stop Smiling” program is continued on today. Dad was also involved in many humanitarian projects all over the world to give dental care to those who need it. Dad will be remembered for his big heart.

Dad had a big family. He is survived by over 100 members of immediate family, including his 10 kids, nearly 50 grandkids, and an increasing number of great-grandchildren. He had a lot of love for us, and always did anything he could to make sure we were taken care of.

Dad had a big appetite for adventure. It seems that he has done everything. Dad has traveled the world. He has been involved in many humanitarian projects all over the world, helping people he didn’t know. Dad had his pilot’s license, loved deep-sea fishing, and was even in a band, “Tooth-Hurty” with his good friends. He had a big desire for all things that were exciting.

The gospel played a big role in dad’s life. He knew the importance of the gospel and loved to serve. Dad was a leader in the gospel his whole life. He served as a bishop, and a member of a stake presidency, a mission president, and a temple president. Dad would never be the first to tell you about the things he has done, and has remained a humble servant of the Lord his entire life.

Dad lived a big life. He played big, and now its time for him to go home. He is going home to be with his biggest fan. He is leaving behind a big legacy. He will be remembered for his big heart, and big adventures. I know that dad would want us continuing to celebrate his big life.