Diane (Saxton Christensen) Izatt, 77

March 5, 1948-Aug.10, 2025

Diane C. (Saxton Christensen) Izatt, born March 5, 1948, in Salt Lake City, Utah, completed her mortal journey on Aug. 10, 2025, in Kalispell after a valiant battle with cancer.

Diane was born to Joseph H. and Myrtle Saxton, the seventh of nine children. She grew up in the Marmalade District of Salt Lake City in a classic, humble pioneer home. After attending Washington Elementary School and Horace Mann Junior High School, she moved to Sacramento, California, for her sophomore and junior years of high school. She returned to Salt Lake City to complete her senior year, graduating from West High School in 1966.

Diane attended BYU School of Nursing, passed the state examination, and practiced as a registered nurse for 44 years before retiring in 2016. Her distinguished career spanned five decades and several areas of specialization, with a particular passion for long-term geriatric care. She was revered as a favorite nurse, beloved by both her patients and their families. Her kindness and compassion profoundly impacted the lives of those she served, and she was privileged to help train many young nurses throughout her career.

In 1999, Diane moved to Montana, establishing her home in a place she treasured for its peace and beauty. She continued her nursing career there until she chose to retire and spend more time with her sons, who were the love, pride, and joy of her life.

While working as a nurse at LDS Hospital, Diane met Dr. Chris Christensen Jr., who was practicing there as a surgeon. Their romance blossomed and they married in 1972. Three wonderful children were born to their marriage: David Bret, Mark Ryan (Amber Steed), and Jeffrey Andrew (Katie Halcro). Four grandchildren survive her: David Jr., Destiny, Danielle, and Drea Christensen. She also cherished her grand dogs, who held a special place in her heart.

Following her divorce from Chris, Diane married David Merl Izatt, who passed away on July 19, 2004.

Diane was a lover of nature who found joy sitting in her backyard, watching the many varieties of birds and creatures that visited her property. The distant lake brought her special peace and comfort, and music played a significant role in her life—she especially enjoyed attending concerts and musical performances with her sons.

A woman of many talents, Diane was an expert seamstress who loved gardening, cooking, canning, and collecting recipes from the internet, where she discovered an endless supply of culinary inspiration. She enjoyed ceramics, creating many beautiful pieces to display in her home or give as gifts. Her other passions included boating, fishing, art classes, and treasure hunting at thrift and second-hand stores.

Diane's commitment to service began early as a candy striper in her teens and continued throughout her life. She especially enjoyed volunteering at animal shelters and supported numerous charitable causes.

Diane faced cancer with unwavering optimism, fighting each battle valiantly with grace and dignity. She never spoke about the difficulty of her journey and always maintained a keen sense of humor, meeting every challenge with unmatched courage. In the end, surrounded by her family, she peacefully departed this life for a joyous reunion with loved ones who had gone before. 

Diane was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, Lory Vaughn (Lowene), Lyndon Kaye and Joseph Lynn (Gail) and sister, Kathleen Marie.  

She is survived by brothers, Leslie Glen (Phyllis) and Richard Jon, and sisters, Joy Ann (Jay) and Karen Gail (Kim).

Diane was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and lived a Christlike life to the end. "For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day."—2 Timothy 4:7

Funeral services will be held Friday, Aug. 22, at 1 p.m. with viewing from noon to 1 p.m. at Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home, 525 S. Main St., Kalispell, MT, 59901. Services may be viewed via streaming. Contact Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home in Kalispell for information.