James Christenson

James "Jim" E. Christenson, age 81, of Willmar, passed away Sunday, Nov. 29, at Bethesda Grand in Willmar.

A celebration of life service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 4, at the Assembly of God Church in Willmar. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be at Fairview Cemetery. Arrangement are with Peterson Brothers Funeral Home. www.petersonbrothers.com

Jim was born on August 30, 1939, in Kandiyohi, Minnesota, the son of Joyce and Helen (Magnuson) Christenson. He grew up and received his education in Kandiyohi and was baptized and confirmed at Ebenezer Lutheran Church. At the age of 17, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served in Hawaii and Japan. On January 10, 1961, Jim was married to Ramona Leaf and they made their home in Willmar. He was first employed in construction in the Willmar area and then served as the manager for the Eagle's Club in Willmar for over 30 years. Prior to his retirement, Jim worked as a transporter for Rice Memorial Hospital. Jim and Mona attended the A/G Church in Willmar. His hobbies included deer hunting, watching sports, especially the Minnesota teams, Sunday afternoon drives around in the country, watching his grandkids race cars and go-carts and spending time with his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Ramona of Willmar; one son, Michael Christenson of Willmar and one daughter, Sheila Christenson of Spicer; four grandchildren, Alysha, Andrew, Jamie and Jeremy; six great grandchildren, Adrienne, Emma, Emeri, Logan, Jasmyn and Benjamin; and a sister-in-law, Marsha Skindelien of Sunburg, besides other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Charlie and Bruce.