Christopher "Chris" Acton, 68, passed away on October 9, 2025, after a courageous battle with Glioblastoma, a terminal form of brain cancer. Diagnosed in August 2024, he faced every day with strength, grace, and quiet courage – the same way he lived his life. Chris passed peacefully at home in Salt Lake City, surrounded by his wife and two daughters.
Born in Queensbury, England, to Thelma Marjorie Dillon and Albert Neil Acton, Chris grew up alongside his younger brothers, Richard and Andrew in Yorkshire. A proud Englishman with a love for family and adventure, he attended college in Birmingham before marrying the love of his life, Gill, on May 23, 1981. Together they built a beautiful life filled with love and laughter, eventually moving to the United States in 1999 for his career.
Chris spent decades with Rio Tinto, where his work ethic, wit, and kindness earned him deep respect. After retiring in 2019, he started his own coaching business, which he thoroughly enjoyed, allowing him to continue mentoring and helping others grow.
Deeply involved in his community, Chris served as President of the Board at the RoadHome and as a board member of the JCC – roles he held with pride and compassion. A lifelong sports enthusiast and loyal Leeds United fan, he also loved golf, cooking, traveling, crafting cocktails, and sharing his trademark "dad jokes." Family was at the heart of everything he did, and becoming "Papa" was one of the greatest joys of his life.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Gill; daughters, Victoria and Rebecca (William), brothers Richard and Andrew; and his adored grandchildren, Everlie, River, and Bodhi. He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Thelma Acton.
Chris will be remembered for his humor, generosity, and unwavering love for his family and friends. His legacy lives on in the laughter he inspired, the connections he nurtured, and the kindness he showed to everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Please join us for a Celebration of Life on November 8th at City View Mortuary 1001 E. 11th Ave. Salt Lake City, Utah at 3 p.m MTN. To view the live stream go to: https://go.carefree.tech/ChristopherActon
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Chris's name to The Road Home, Glioblastoma Foundation or Huntsman Cancer Foundation. The family would like to also share their deepest gratitude for the unwavering love and support from their family, friends and healthcare workers during this extremely difficult time