Eugene J. Christianson

Independence – Eugene “Gene” J. Christianson, 77, of Independence, died Monday, June 6, 2011 at Lakeview Health Center, West Salem surrounded by his loving family. Gene was born December 7, 1933 in Independence to Orrie and Violet (Jacobson) Christianson. He married the love of his life, Eleanore E. Nogosek on May 14, 1960 at SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Independence. Gene was proud of his service in the Navy from 1952-1956. He served on the USS New Jersey during the Korean War. He then worked for Whitehall Packing, Land O’Lakes and National Presto Industries until his retirement. Gene enjoyed working around the house, tinkering in his shed, working out in the yard and traveling. Gene was a gentle, quiet man who was very much loved by family and friends. He was a member of SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church and Sura-Wiersgalla American Legion Post 186. Survivors include his wife, Eleanore of Independence; four daughters, Laurie (Terry) Boland of Merrillan, Jeannie (Brian) Kelly of Arcadia, Sandra Neve of Portage, Mary (Tom) Myers of Marshfield; two sons, Patrick (Nancy) and Tony (Heidi) Christianson both of Independence; eight grandchildren, Jessica, Megan, Drew, Dakota, Dylan, Brennan, Haley and Tyler; two great-granddaughters, Aubrey and Kylee; two sisters, Delores Knipfer of New Auburn, Judi (Bob) Maule of Muskego; two sisters-in-law, Shirley and Lida Christianson, many nieces and nephews. Gene is preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Duane, Rodney and Ardell Christianson and one sister, Virginia Helms. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, June 10, 2011 at SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Independence, with Rev. Woodrow H. Pace officiating. Burial, with military rites, will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, with a prayer service at 8:00 p.m. and 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Friday at Edison Funeral Home, Independence. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Eugene J. Christianson, please visit our flower store.