Joanne Bernice Christensen

OREGON-Joanne B. Christensen, age 77, of Oregon, passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2014 at Agrace HospiceCare in Fitchburg. She was born on March 8, 1937, in Whitewater, Wis., the daughter of William and Ruth (Doherty) Maas. She was united in marriage to Earl Christensen in 1984. Joanne was a longtime resident of the Oregon area. She was a member of Hillcrest Bible Church in Oregon. Joanne retired from The Department of Natural Resources (D.N.R.) after 29 years of service as an Administrative Secretary. Joanne was a woman with a joy for life, nature, her family and friends and her Lord. She enjoyed flowers, birds, and animals of all kinds. Joanne was a very positive, loving person who would help anyone in need. She was a loving mother, friend and sister. Joanne will be deeply missed by all. She is survived by her children, Deanna Croson, Michael Edwards and Joletta (Rex) Christensen; grandchildren, Christopher Croson, Ryan Edwards and Miya Quance; step-sons, David (Deb) Christensen and Steven (Stephanie) Christensen; sisters, Judy (Duane) Asherin and Jean (Walter) Goers; and other relatives and friends. Joanne was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a son, Randy Edwards; and a brother, Jack Maas. A funeral service celebrating her life will be held at HILLCREST BIBLE CHURCH, 752 E. Netherwood St., Oregon, at 11 a.m., on Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2014, with the Rev. Eric Vander Ploeg and the Rev. Fred Schmitt officiating. Burial will be held in Prairie Mound Cemetery in Oregon. A visitation will be held at GUNDERSON OREGON FUNERAL HOME, 1150 Park St., Oregon, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m., on Monday, Oct. 6, 2014, and at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Tuesday. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson Oregon Funeral & Cremation Care 1150 Park Street (608)835-3515