Kirstin Ann Mortensen

Kirstin Ann Mortensen Derbidge was born May 9, 1983 to Lori Ann Steadman Gross and Donald Ross Derbidge in Salt Lake City, Utah.  The first of five children, she quickly learned to become a leader and protector.

After moving from Bountiful, Utah to Thayne, Wyoming her junior year of high school, she met her high-school sweetheart and love of her life, Derek Mortensen.  She was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  She married Derek on June 26, 2003 in the Bountiful Utah temple.  A goal in her life was to become a mother and soon she and Derek became the loving parents of three children, Spencer, Jennifer, and Saige.  Her world revolved around her family.

She served in many callings in the Church throughout her life.  Many of these callings were in the Primary where she was currently serving as 1st counselor.
Kirstin graduated from BYU-Idaho with an Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education.  Her dream was to become a teacher.  She recently fulfilled this long-awaited dream as she was hired to work in the ELL program for the Lincoln County School District.  Her role was to assist students with their reading and English development.  She loved “her children” and worked diligently with them in the program.  As each child would “test out of the program” she would be so excited and share the success with her family.  Together with Kirstin, we would all celebrate this great achievement.  
Kirstin made everyone around her feel like “home”.  Kirstin loved without prejudice and judgment.  It didn’t take more than a few minutes of conversation with Kirstin to be touched by her sweet spirit and see the twinkle in her eye,  
Kirstin could often times be found in her kitchen where she loved to bake and cook.  She was always looking for new recipes to try and then share with others.
The success of her children, husband, and family members brought her the most joy.  Kirstin was selfless and was so grateful for the little things.  Material things were not important to her.
Kirstin’s sweet spirit was called home too soon but we find comfort in knowing that she and her sweet Saige are together watching over her family and friends.
Kirstin is survived by her husband, Derek and two beautiful children, Spencer and Jennifer; mother, Lori (Len) Gross; father Donald (Denise) Derbidge; sisters Aubri (Shawn) Jensen and Cari (Jordan) Derbidge; brothers DJ (Maria) Derbidge; Nick Derbidge as well as many other extended family members – nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and grandparents.
Kirstin, we love you and our hearts are broken.  We hope there are concerts and refreshers in Heaven.  Until we meet again, we will hold you in our hearts and memories.
 

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