Charles G. “Chuck” Christiansen of John Day, former longtime Hermiston resident, died on Nov. 14, 2017 in Prairie City at the age of 85.
He was born on March 13, 1932 in Alta, Iowa to Carl William and Johana (Joan) Alberta Hobbs Christiansen.
Chuck was raised and attended school in Alta, where he participated in football and basketball. He moved to Reno, Nev. in 1950 and later enlisted in the United States Navy. He was stationed in Kingsville, Texas and trained to be a fireman. While stationed in Texas, he met Betty L. Smith and they were united in marriage on Oct. 17, 1953 in Kingsville. Chuck was honorably discharged, and he and Betty returned to Reno where they lived until 1970. They moved to Irrigon, and Chuck worked as a fireman at the Umatilla Army Depot until 1979. He worked at Sherrell Chevrolet in Hermiston on his days off for several years before moving to Hermiston in 1975 and making a full time change to work at Sherrell’s in 1979. He worked at Sherrell’s for 20 years and then for Myrick Chrysler/Dodge until he retired in 1994.
Chuck and Betty moved to John Day in 1997, where they have lived since. Chuck was a former member of the Lions Club and a member of the Elks Lodge, and for many years he was part of the early morning coffee crew in John Day.
Chuck’s greatest joy was his family. His family came first, and he was always there with guidance, advice, wisdom, support and love. He enjoyed attending all the sporting events and activities that his children and grandchildren participated in over the years, and playing pinochle. He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Betty Christiansen, John Day; son, David Christiansen (Kari), Hermiston; daughters, Joni Bebb, John Day and Debbie Christiansen, Hermiston; grandchildren, Tyler, Carter, Brady, Sheri, Brian and Amy; 10 great grandchildren; brother, Daniel Christiansen, Redmond; and several nieces and nephews.
Chuck was preceded in death by his parents.
A celebration of life service will be announced and held at a later date.
Please sign the online condolence book at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
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