Irving Russell Christensen

Irving Russell Christensen passed away Wednesday, April 18, 2018 at Home Inspired, Somers, with his family by his side.

He was born in Racine on April 29, 1920 to the late Oscar A. and Elizabeth (nee. Jensen) Christensen. On December 22, 1951, he was united in marriage to the late Shirley Ann (nee. Hansen) Christensen at First United Methodist Church of Racine.

Irving was a graduate of Racine Park High School and following WWII, the University of Wisconsin- Stout with a degree in Industrial Education. He spent most of his years of employment in Industrial sales beginning with Quaker Oat Co., followed by Young Radiator, Modine Mfg. and ending his long sales career in 1996, with Tramont Corp. He enjoyed being part of many sales organizations including the SME.

Irving served his country during World War II as a second Lieutenant and a member of the Eighth Air Force, 94th Bomb group, 410th Bomb squadron stationed at Bury St. Edmunds airfield in England. Irv co-piloted B-17 bombers in the European Theatre during which time he and his crew completed 30 missions before May 1945. During his service, Irv earned numerous Air Force medals and citations.

Irv was a lifelong member of First United Methodist Church. He enjoyed weekly golfing as a member of Meadowbrook CC, traveling the world with his wife Shirley, and spending time with friends. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family and he will be sadly missed.

He is survived by his three children, Rick (Jane) Christensen of St. Paul, MN, Cathy (Tom) Coughlin of Sturtevant, WI, Sue (Dave) Shea of Deerfield WI; six grandchildren Matt (Heather), Steve and Sarah Coughlin, Andrew (Gina) Shea and Emily (Andre’) Gagnon, Carrie Christensen; four great-grandchildren, Lillian and Ryan Coughlin, August Shea, Cecilia Gagnon; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends including Eve Sorensen and Doris Pirk. In addition to his parents and wife Shirley, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Hazel Melik, Grace Konnak, Myrt Morissey and Joan Dietze.

Funeral Services will be held Friday, April 27, 2018, 11:00 A.M. at the funeral home with Rev. Jakes Voker officiating. Interment with Full Military Honors will follow at Mound Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet with the family Friday at the funeral home from 10:00 A.M. until time of service at 11:00 A.M. In lieu of flowers, memorials to First United Methodist Church of Racine and Hospice Alliance of Kenosha would be appreciated.

A special thank you to Kevin and Victoria Metz and the entire staff at Home Inspired Senior Living, where Irv had been a resident since December 2013. The friendships and compassionate care gave Irv a special place to call “home.”

The family would also like to thank the staff at Hospice Alliance and especially Jessica, Irv’s caregiver for the loving care and comfort he received in his final days.