Arnold Christiansen

Arnold O. Christiansen, age 82, of 2722 South Hill Road #36, Gladstone, died Thursday morning August 11, 2005, at the St. Francis Hospital in Escanaba surrounded by his loving family.
Arnold was born January 17, 1923, in Venezuela, South America, the son of John and Anna (Gunderson) Christiansen, who preceded him in death. Arnold resided, with his family, in Venezuela, for many years, while his father served as a missionary throughout South America. In 1936, the Arnold relocated to South Carolina where he attended and graduated from the Batesberg High School. Following his years in school, Arnold was drafted into the United States Navy, during the WWII era, serving his time on the U.S.S. Bennington during the Pacific Theatre. After spending 3 years of service in the Navy, Arnold returned to the Chicago area. On April 27, 1946, Arnold married his life long companion; the former Pauline Tharaldsen and the couple remained in Chicago until relocating to the Gladstone area in July of 1985. Throughout the years, Arnold was self-employed as a painter/decorator. He loved to spend many hours of his time on his computer and he enjoyed playing golf. Arnold loved to work with his hands and is remembered for making tables and clocks for family members. He was extremely helpful and caring to people. He enjoyed visiting with many and lending a helping hand from time to time. Arnold was known for completing his tasks to perfection. Arnold loved to spend time with his family and grandchildren, showing interest in their lives, going to their sporting events and never missing a family function. He will be deeply missed by family and friends.

Survivors include:

His wife of 59 years, Pauline

1 Son: Paul (Karen) Christiansen of ElCajon, CA

2 Daughters: Nancy (Loren) Mead of Gladstone, MI; Lois (James) Pinkerton currently residing in Nairobi Kenya, Africa

2 Brothers: Landis (Jerdice) Christiansen of Minnesota; Reginald (Bernice) Christiansen of Chicago, IL

2 Sisters: Edith Maycroft of Crystal Lake, IL; Irene Rhine of Florida

4 Grandsons: Trevin, Jacob, Erik and Paul

4 Granddaughters: Misti, Jennifer, Amanisha and Joanna

Also surviving are many nieces, nephews and cousins

In addition to his parents, John and Anna, Arnold was preceded in death by:

2 Brothers: David and John Christiansen

3 Sisters: Anabel Christiansen, Victoria Christiansen and Grace Jensen

Family will receive friends on Saturday from 2:00PM to 4:00PM at the Evangelical Covenant Church of Delta County, located in Gladstone. Funeral services celebrating the life of Arnold O. Christiansen will follow visitation, at the Evangelical Covenant Church, with Rev. Ted Olsen and Rev. Carl Hammer officiating. Luncheon will follow in the church fellowship hall. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Delta County Cancer Alliance. Envelopes will be available at the Evangelical Covenant Church.