Jared F Christiansen

Jared “Newt” Christiansen
1973 - 2023

    Jared F. Christiansen, affectionately known as “Newt”, passed away on Friday, December 29, 2023 at the age of 50 in his hometown of Manti, UT. He was born on December 19, 1973, at Gunnison Valley Hospital.
    As a child, Jared was fun-loving, adventurous, and a rough-and-tumble kid. He didn't let growing up with two sisters deter him. He often convinced them to tag-team wrestle, chased them with slimy critters, taught them to make and throw moss balls, and collected rattlesnake rattles and arrowheads. Full of energy, he invented games and creative ways to expend it. Working on the family farms instilled in him a strong work ethic and a dream of owning his own ranch someday. Activities like herding and shearing sheep, moving cows, building fences, and baling hay shaped his character. And what a character he was. Jared's passion for horses blossomed early; he participated in Horse 4-H and rodeos and loved team roping and bareback riding.
    Jared graduated from Manti High School and went on to study agriculture at Utah State University. Jared eventually decided to try his hand at real estate and other business ventures where he found success, yet it was his unwavering love for ranching that truly defined him. “Newt’s” cowboy toughness and fearless demeanor were not mere traits, but reflections of a life lived on the edge, where challenges were met head on. He embodied the spirit of "rub some dirt on it," resilient and unyielding.
    Newt took immense pride in caring for his animals and had deep knowledge about his ranch and land. His children and grandchildren were his greatest sources of pride and joy. He imparted his ranching wisdom to his sons and any day with a loved one on the farm was the BEST day. He often talked about legacy and leaving something behind. A loyal friend with a heart of gold, Newt was always the first to lend a helping hand. His quick wit, ability to tell a good story and be a teaser at heart, are just a few of the things we love about him. He was competitive to the core and there was never a challenge he wouldn’t accept. Wagers and bets were usually attached to everything he did including simple basketball matches, football games or a card game. It always added some excitement to whatever he was doing. To know Newt was to love him. If he gave you a nickname, consider yourself blessed. Newt believed in keeping his circle of friends small, ensuring that those within it were cherished and valued. Despite the challenges and heartaches that marked his journey, Newt’s work ethic and toughness were at the forefront. Pain, illness, and adversity were battles he fought daily. As we bid farewell to Newt, we take solace in knowing that he longed for the day he would find peace. His legacy will forever remain etched in our hearts, a testament to a life lived on HIS terms, filled with determination and a deep love for all those he held close to his heart.
    He is survived by his children: Colby Christiansen, Chance Christiansen, Laramy Christiansen, and Kallie (Colton) Madsen; grandchildren: Brynlee and Braxton Madsen; mother, Kristine Frischknecht-Christensen; sisters, Candice (Alex) Arona and Heidi Hugie. Newt had many uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews that he loved very much.
    To honor Newt’s wishes, there will be no funeral service but a graveside burial at the Manti City Cemetery, Friday January 5th at 11:00 a.m. Our family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to all who loved Newt and have reached out with condolences. A special expression of gratitude to Aubri for your love and support.
    Rest in peace dear Newt. Your spirit will forever guide us, reminding us to “cowboy up” in the face of adversity and cherish the moments that truly matter. We will always tell a good story about you.

   Funeral Directors: Magleby Mortuary, Richfield, Salina and Manti. Online guestbook at www.maglebymortuary.com