Richard Christianson

Richard Christianson, age 84, of Staples, died Thursday evening, January 4 at the Lakewood Care Center in Staples. Memorial service will be Tuesday, January 9, at 11:00 am at Faith Lutheran Church in Staples with Pastor Stephen Sveom and Intern Pastor Jill Michelle Cosart officiating. There will be a time to gather one hour prior to the service at the church. Arrangements are with Brenny Funeral Home of Staples. Richard Allen Christianson was born on December 30, 1922 to Christian Allen and Alina (Linden) Christianson at Staples, MN. He graduated from Staples High School. He enlisted in the United States Navy in October of 1943. He was a pilot. After his honorable discharge, he began working for the railroad companies of Northern Pacific, Great Northern, and Burlington Northern. He retired as an engineer after working for 37 years. Richard was united in marriage to Bette Lou Sommars on June 6, 1948. To this union Steven Allen and Jeffrey Lyn were born. Richard is survived by his sons; Steven (Cynthia) of St. Cloud, Jeffrey (Corinne) of Big Lake,; his brother Kenneth (Miriam) of Bemidji; grandchildren, Gretchen and Lance Christianson; nephews, Mark, Kent and 1 niece Susan Christian. He was preceded in death by his wife, Bette; his parents; and brother Francis. Memorials are preferred to the American Stroke Foundation.  Mail to 5960 Dearborn, Mission, KS 66202. Services are entrusted to Brenny Funeral Home of Staples.