Ernest 'Chris' Christensen

Ernest L “Chris” Christensen finished his race here on earth on Friday, May 10th and joined his precious wife in heaven, just in time to celebrate her birthday.

Services will be on Friday, June 14th at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, 1303 Lincolnshire Dr, Champaign. Visitation will be from  9-11 am in Feeney Hall. The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 at the church. Burial will immediately follow at St. Mary's Cemetery, Champaign.

Chris was born on December 13, 1937, the fifth child of Olaf and Margrethe Christensen in Cook County, IL. He joined the air force and served from 1955-1959. He married Carolyn “Sue” Reis on April 23, 1960.  They were married for 58 years when she passed on December 31, 2018. They have 4 children: Denise Howell Thomas (Frank), Phillip Christensen, Mark  Christensen (Melissa) and Matthew Christensen. They had 6 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren, with many bonus children unofficially adopted over the years. 

Chris was a founding member of St. Matthew’s parish and all 4 children attended school at St. Matthew’s. He worked for the U of I at Willard airport.  He used his military and work benefits to complete his bachelors degree and spent several years teaching industrial arts at Unit 4 schools in the late 70’s.

In 1976, Chris rejoined the US Military in the Army National Guard where he served 16 years  to get his full retirement.  Chris was also a dedicated Boy Scout leader, active in Knights of Columbus and he served as a docent at the Chanute Air Force Museum, and later at the Champaign County Historical Museum. 

Chris was diagnosed with ALS in 2011, but most people never knew that. His overwhelming optimism and positive attitude were amazing. He was soft-spoken, with a strong faith and a generous and caring nature. He was a wonderful husband, father, brother and friend. 

Special thanks to the staff of Evergreen Place Assisted Living and OSF hospice for their excellent care. 

Memorials may be made to the ALS association. 
 

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