Robert Christianson

Robert Chris Christianson, age 85, of St. James, died on Friday, June 17, 2011, at Pleasant View Good Samaritan Center in St. James. Robert Gordon Christianson was born June 25, 1925, at Minneota, MN, to Carl Anna Marie (Pearson) Christianson. He was baptized confirmed at Hope Lutheran Church in Minneota. He was a Boy Scout and became an Eagle Scout in 1940. Robert graduated from high school in 1943, served in the US Army as a combat engineer from 1943 to 1946, serving in the South Pacific during WWII. He was united in marriage to Dorothy Sherman on May 28, 1949. He received his B.A. Degree at Augustana College, Sioux Falls, SD, in 1949, and his Master's Degree in 1955. He was Principal and coach at Gary, SD, and Groton, SD, from 1949 to 1956. He served as Superintendent of School at Coleman, SD, Ruthton, Janesville and St. James until retirement in 1984. Robert was a lifetime member of the VFW, Legion and DAV. He was President of the Shrine Club, Rotary Club, MCPE, Commander of the VFW, and Vice Chairman of the Watonwan County Library Board for 9 years and on the Park Board for 12 years. He also served on City Council, Church Council and Chamber of Commerce. Robert was an honorary member of the FFA Letterman's Club. He received a Certificate of Merit (for devotion) to Public Education in the State of Minnesota from 1963-1975. Named Good Neighbor of the Northwest by WCCO Radio in 1982, was Grand Marshal for Railroad Days in 2007, He was named Outstanding Senior Citizen, served on many committees for MASA. He enjoyed gardening, all sports, reading, music, and was interested in all civil affairs. The joy of his life was his grandchildren, great-grandchildren and the anticipated birth of a new great-granddaughter. Robert is survived by his wife Dorothy of St. James, 4 children, Roxanne Clegg of Maplewood and her children, Zac (Libby) Clegg and their children Mac Cash of Woodbury, Justin (Paula) of St. Paul, Carl his son Alex of St. Paul, Al of St. Paul, daughter Vicki Pederson of St. James and her daughter Courtney (Brian) of Stillwater, son Bob Christianson of Ham Lake, daughter Robin Christianson (Terry) of New Ulm, sisters-in-law Ige Ellis of Madison, SD, Marlys Silver of Boca Raton, FL and Lucille Christianson of Marshall. He is preceded in death by his parents, sisters Selma, Clarice, Audrey, brothers Irving, Elmer, Andrew, Carl, Lester and Donald.