John Henry Christensen
July 08, 1943 - March 11, 2024
Obituary
MIDDLETON - John H. Christensen, 80, of Middleton, Wis., passed away peacefully on Monday, March 11, 2024, at Agrace Hospice in Janesville, Wis., with his three daughters at his side.
John was born on July 8, 1943, in Moline, Ill., to James H. and Margaret M. (Cotter) Christensen. John graduated from Rock Island High School in 1961. He attended the University of Iowa where he majored in Chemistry and was a member of the wrestling team. Upon graduation, John enlisted with the United States Navy. He served as an officer (LTJG) from 1966-1969.
Upon his honorable discharge from the Navy, John moved to Madison, Wis. He worked at Sub Zero and then Oscar Mayer as a Senior Purchasing Agent. He married Jennifer Lunde on June 5, 1976, in Monona, Wis. John later earned his MBA from UW-Whitewater and retired from Oscar Mayer / Kraft Foods as Purchasing Director. In his retirement he started a painting and handyman business and enjoyed every moment with his three daughters and seven grandchildren. He enjoyed dancing, gardening, his twice-daily walks, and more than anything spending time with his family.
John is survived by his loving daughters, Ann (Dan) Hallmark, Katy (Jason) Stapelmann and Ellen (Dan) Hanson; his adored grandchildren, Colleen, Lane, Henry, Sam, Jessie, Caroline and Samantha; his partner, friend and cohort of 48 years, Jenny; his long-time family friends, John and Gail Poser; his brother, Jim (Deann) Christensen; and his brother-in-law, Rich Frank. John is further survived by his nieces and nephews, Mike, Tim, Mary Ellen, Tom, Dan, Mike, Heidi and Caryn who hold a very special place in his heart.
John was preceded in death by his parents: his sister and brother-in-law, Jean and John Manley of Davenport, Iowa; and his sister, Mary Frank of Seattle, Wash.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in John’s name to Agrace Hospice.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to the entire staff of St. Mary’s Hospital Cardiology 5E and Agrace Hospice of Madison and Janesville.
Saying goodbye, going away
Seems like goodbye’s such a hard thing to say
Touching a hand, wondering why
It’s time for saying goodbye
Saying goodbye, why is it sad?
Makes us remember the good times we’ve had
Much more to say, foolish to try
It’s time for saying goodbye
Don’t want to leave, but we both know
Sometime’s its better to go
Somehow I know, we’ll meet again
Not sure quite where, and I don’t know just when
You’re in my heart, so until then
Wanna smile, wanna cry
Saying goodbye
Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420