Jack Tolman Christopherson

Jack Tolman Christopherson, age 95, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026, in Mesa, Arizona. He was born on January 16, 1931, in Salem, Utah, to Clifford Vance Christopherson and Velma Margrette Tolman Christopherson.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents and his granddaughter, Angela Bagley.

He is survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Janet Anne McDowell Christopherson, whom he married in 1954; his siblings, Carol Christopherson Belnap, Severin Johnson, Elizabeth Toy, and Mary George; his children, Kary, Keven, Jana, Shawn, and Shane; as well as 15 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren.

Jack proudly served in the United States Air Force for four years before beginning a long and distinguished career in aviation. He spent his early years farming and later managed a flying service, worked as a corporate pilot, served with Piper Aircraft, and became the Director of Aeronautics for the State of Arizona. He retired after several years with the Federal Aviation Administration.

A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Jack faithfully served as Bishop of the Lehi 1st Ward in Mesa, Arizona, for five years.

Flying was Jack’s lifelong passion. He taught all of his sons to fly, and two went on to careers in aviation themselves. Throughout his life, he owned several airplanes, including a vintage Boeing Stearman that he especially loved flying with his children, often performing aerobatics. He also enjoyed air shows, car shows, museums, the Reno Air Races, exploring desert canyons, and gardening — particularly caring for his large collection of geraniums.

Jack will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, devotion to family, love of aviation, and the many lives he touched throughout his long and remarkable life.

A Celebration of Jack’s Life will be held Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 11-12 pm at Legacy Retirement, 5625 E. McKellips Road, Mesa, AZ 85215