Christopher J. Haggard

Christopher J. Haggard peacefully passed away in his sleep on the morning of May 1, 2024 in St. George, UT.  He was 57 years young. He was looking forward to coming back to his remodeled home in Plain City, UT on May 3rd where he and his wife resided.  

Chris was born on October 8,1966 in Idaho Falls, ID, he was the beloved son of Jimmie Edwin Haggard and Donna Marie Lindberg. Chris completed his education at Twin Falls High School in 1984 before pursuing further studies in computer drafting at Idaho State University.

Chris found his soulmate and eternal companion, Patricia Stegen Haggard, with whom he shared a beautiful union on June 7, 1997. They were later sealed in the Salt Lake City Temple on July 27, 2000, marking the beginning of a remarkable 27-year marriage. Chris was very romantic and often gifted his wife random love notes and thoughtful gifts throughout their marriage. In 1998, Chris embraced the teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, finding solace and purpose within its community. He had a strong testimony of the Gospel. He became deeply involved in nurturing the youth and serving as a guiding figure in various positions within the young men’s organization. 

Professionally, Chris embarked on diverse paths, demonstrating a strong work ethic and determination. Initially, he dedicated 20 years to retail management within the grocery industry before venturing into a new chapter at Hill Air Force Base in 2014. There, he contributed his skills to the 523rd Electronics Maintenance Squadron and later transitioned to the 414th Supply Chain Squadron as an Equipment Specialist in 2018. He took the initiative to redesign multiple components used in nuclear missiles to make them better.  

Chris was not merely defined by his professional pursuits; he was a man of numerous passions and talents. Whether completing his daily "to-do" lists or indulging in his love for drawing, playing softball, or raising pigeons, Chris approached each endeavor with enthusiasm and dedication. At one time, he enjoyed raising freshwater fish, especially Beta's.  At one point, he had at least a dozen or more individual tanks.  As well as houseplants and hanging plants, he truly had a green thumb just like his father. Also, his affection for Ford Mustangs was evident through his meticulous care and participation in many car shows. Chris was especially proud of his Shelby Mustang which was gifted to him from his loving wife.

Among his many interests, one stood out prominently - his dedication to crafting intricate WWII aircraft models. This hobby, which evolved into a side business, became a testament to Chris’s meticulous nature and artistic flair. As a member of a model-building club, he not only honed his skills but also became known for his exceptional attention to detail. Fellow enthusiasts would often seek his expertise, requesting specific models to be assembled and painted. Chris approached each project with unwavering focus and commitment, transforming mere pieces into realistic works of art. These were constructed in his model room in his home which was his happy place. 

Beyond his artistic pursuits, Chris found fulfillment in playing golf. He was on his high school golf team and there it became his favorite pastime. He played weekly with his close friends as it fostered their relationships, and  was a scratch golfer. One of his favorite courses he played on was Torrey Pines in San Diego. He also loved coaching basketball. For many years, he generously shared his knowledge and love for the game with young athletes. Whether coaching his stepdaughter, niece, or later his grandsons, Chris instilled in them not just the skills of the game but also lessons of teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. He was truly an avid sports fan and was often watching basketball, football, baseball or the Masters. He would always cheer on his Dallas Cowboys and had the opportunity to watch them play at AT&T stadium.  He also visited California to watch his favorite baseball team play, the Anaheim Angels. 

Chris’s love extended to animals as well. Particularly to his cherished European Boxer, 'Izzy Girl'. He enjoyed taking her on many walks, side by side rides and trips to Maverick. Izzy would shower him with kisses at the end of each night. Their bond was remarkable and a testament to Chris's gentle soul and nurturing spirit.   

As a devoted grandfather, Chris delighted in attending his grandchildren’s activities. He took immense pride in their accomplishments, showering them with love and admiration. The memories they made together will last a lifetime.    

Chris was preceded in death by his father, Jimmie Edwin Haggard, grandmother Edith Lindberg, and mother-in-law Betty Christensen. 

He leaves behind a legacy of love. Survived by his devoted wife Patricia Haggard, mother Donna (Brooke) Chase, sister Pamela (Scott) Field, children Cory (Erica) Haggard, Katie (Josh) Ostberg, Jason (Jackie) Stegen, Tyler (Kimberlee) Stegen, Natalie (Lewis Weston) Weaver, Nathan Stegen, nieces Abigail (Mark) Kunes, Raquel Ward, nephew Cade Ward, and 12 cherished grandchildren.

Chris’s gentle spirit, strong work ethic, unwavering love, and service will forever be cherished and remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. We will never forget you "CJ".

Funeral Services will be held Friday, May 10th, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Lindquist Layton Mortuary located at 1867 N Fairfield Rd, Layton, UT 84041.

Friends may visit with family Thursday, May 9th, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. and Friday from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the mortuary prior to the service.

Christopher will be laid to rest at the Kaysville City Cemetery located at 500 E Crestwood Rd, Kaysville, UT 84037.