Harry Christiansen

Harry A. Christiansen, age 77, of Stanton, passed away late Wednesday evening, July 31, 2013 in his home surrounded by his loving family. The son of George & Marian (Fosmoen) Christiansen, he was born at home in Douglass Township on April 22, 1936 and was a farmer -- having farmed the land along the same road where he was born his entire life. On February 22, 1958, he married Beverly Wisner of the Carson City/Crystal area, following which he served in the U.S. Army and was stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado. In addition to farming, Harry worked at the factories of Mitchell Bentley and Lobdell Emery, retiring after 45 years of service. Harry was a loving and giving man who accepted everyone. He had a soft nature and a wonderful sense of humor. The family saying is "We want to grow up to be just like Harry!" He is very much loved by his family and will be deeply missed by many. He enjoyed watching the Detroit Tigers and his great grandchildren grow. He planted a garden each year and loved to give away the produce he grew. He often played cards with his family and enjoyed woodworking, bluegill fishing, and camping. He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Cheryl Christiansen; a brother, Victor Christiansen, brother-in-law, Earl "Bub" Wiser; sisters-in-law Elizabeth (Wiser) Peacock, Lois Christiansen, and Doris Christiansen; and his parents-in-law, Earl Wiser, and Elizabeth & Louis Fletcher. Surviving are his wife of 55 years, Beverly Christiansen; their children, Diana Christiansen-Burgtorf & Charlie Burgtorf of Perrinton, Phillip Christiansen of Stanton, and Karen Christiansen of Windsor, South Carolina; four grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren. Also surviving are two sisters, Marilyn & Leland Oswald of Elwell, and Sharon & Harold Swindell of Greenville; two brothers, George "Bud" Christiansen of California, and David & Lois Christiansen of Nevada; and a siblings-in-law, Carol (Wiser) & Michael Barnes, and Roberta Wiser; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Honoring his wishes, cremation will take place and private graveside services will be held at South Sidney Cemetery at a later date. For those desiring to do so, contributions in Harry's memory may be made to either Faith Lutheran Church, 3990 W. Sidney Rd., Sidney, 48885 or Spectrum Health Hospice, 100 Michigan St. NE, Grand Rapids, 49502. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Harry Christiansen, please visit our flower store.