Kristen Barnes Richtsteig
June 22, 1946 - June 2, 2024
Kristen Barnes Richtsteig died on June 2, 2024 due to complications of Multiple Sclerosis.
Born in Salt Lake City on June 22, 1946 to Norman Dean Barnes and Lois Eleanor Thayne, she attended Highland High School and studied English and Folklore at the University of Utah.
She married Major David Richtsteig USMC on July 3, 1964. Following his death in combat in Vietnam, she raised her infant son alone. She worked in grant administration at the University of Utah.
A convert to the Roman Catholic Church, she was a member of the Secular Carmelites.
She is survived by her son, Father Erik Richtsteig and Brother-in-law Victor (Vianne) Martinez.
Preceded in death by her parents, sister Normandy Martinez, and brother Bruce (Suzan) Barnes. Special thanks to Drs. Rebecca Moore and John Foley, Capital Hill Senior Living, and Dignity.
The Rosary will be prayed at St. Ambrose Church 7pm, July 2, 2024. Requiem Mass celebrated at 11 am at St. Ambrose on July 3, 2024 with interment following at Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Carmel of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Murray, UT or Best Friends Animal Sanctuary.
In Loving Memory
I have heard stories from her son, a dear friend of mine, as to what a loving and wonderful mother she was for him. She rose to the challenge of raising a child alone and kept the memory of his late father alive for him. It should also be noted that in addition to the love she had for her family, she also loved her pets and treated animals with kindness and care. May the saints come to the gates of Paradise to greet her.
Dear Father Erik and family, My sincere condolences on the passing of your beloved mother to eternal life. May she rest in peace. My prayers for Our Lady of Mount Carmel to console and comfort you in these difficult days ahead. With Love, Connie Gallegos OCDS
Kristen has such a good heart. She once stayed at my house to care for my spoiled dogs while we went overseas on pilgrimage. When we came home, my most precious Stella Corgi went over to Kris and sat on her foot and leaned up close to her leg---Stella clearly loved Kris and was claiming her, not wanting her to leave. At that moment, my heart swelled with pure love for Kris, she took such good care of them, I was so happy they were treated well. She probably cared for them better than I. Kris has the BEST heart ever, as evidenced by the love my corgis displayed toward her--dogs hearts are always truthful. Kristen has a pure loving heart and I am grateful to have known her.
In Loving Memory
