Carmen Virginia Christianson passed away on May 13, 2014, exactly 40 days after Julius Christianson, her husband of 67 years. Carmen was born August 14, 1921, in Havre, Montana, to Charles and Anna Dupper. During her teenage years she played drums for several dance bands and was a life-long lover of all music.
During World War II, Carmen worked as train order operator for the Great Northern Railway. She met Julius after the war, when he returned from the Army to work on the railroad as train dispatcher. They married in 1947 and settled in Havre. In 1960 Julius was promoted to Chief Dispatcher in Superior, Wisconsin. He and Carmen moved with their children, living in Superior for 34 years. In 1994 they moved to Helena, Montana, to be nearer to family.
Carmen was a life-long learner and community activist. She was a charter member of the League of Women Voters in Havre, and continued her League membership in Superior, WI, and in Helena, MT. Always active, Carmen took seriously her responsibility of being a good citizen. Her volunteer work took her to leadership roles in the League, the Douglas County Mental Health Association in Superior, WI, Parent Teacher Association in multiple schools, Cub Scouts; in church as Sunday school teacher and Superintendent, and in other community service groups. Carmen worked as a teacher’s aide in classrooms for students with learning disabilities, took in foster children, and served as a mentor and guide for many young people. Carmen modeled a life-style that cared for all of God’s creation, especially demonstrated in her passion for gardening, and her love of hiking in the forests and mountains.
After retirement, Carmen studied the Norwegian style of folk painting called rosemaling and dedicated many hours learning the skill. She painted and donated many items to charities she considered important, including Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church, the local Public Radio, Intermountain Children’s Home, and the Florence Crittendon Home. Together with Julius, she enjoyed many memorable travel adventures, taking multiple trips to Norway, riding the Orient Express in Europe, and visiting Mexico and Costa Rica. She spent three weeks on a University of Wisconsin study tour of the Soviet Union. For their 50th wedding anniversary, Carmen and Julius canoed the Wild and Scenic portion of the Missouri River with their children and grandchildren.
Carmen was preceded in death by her parents; husband Julius, daughter Carmen Paulsen, and beloved sister Gloria Zachau. She is survived by sons Jim (Irene) Christianson of Great Falls, and Denis (Grace) Christianson of Gillette, Wyoming; daughter Ingrid (Don) Childress of Helena; 5 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.
Memorials may be sent to St. Peter’s Hospice at 201 S. California, Helena, MT, 59601, or to Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church at 3580 N. Benton Ave., Helena, MT, 59602.
A memorial service will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, May 23, 2014 at Our Redeemers Lutheran Church, 3580 N. Benton Ave, Helena. A reception will be held in the social hall of the church immediately following the memorial service.
Marie says
I’m so sorry to hear of Carmen’s passing. I knew her from attending the Helena Symphony for many years. My prayers and thoughts are with her family in this difficult time.
Cheryl says
Carmen was a lovely, accomplished lady and wonderful friend who always made room at her table for guests. There was an eternal twinkle in her eye and she will be missed very much. My deepest condolences to her family on her passing.
Kathy Hutton says
Oh dear I am so sorry to hear of the deaths of Carmen and Julius. I lived across the alley in Superior and enjoyed having the Christianson family as neighbors. I asked Carmen why she was flying the flag on days that were not on my calendar and she replied that she would hang the flag on birthdays. I still have enjoyed a plant that she gave me as a starter. That little plant keeps having babies to this day I split and share with my friends and family. My window sill is filled with warm thoughts of Carmen who was a very kind, caring and giving woman….Hugs to all.
Florence Armagost says
Once again I send my love and prayers to all of you. The ‘soul mates’ are once again joined in our heavenly home. They were truly inseparable and Carmen needed to be with Julius. You always hear of death via broken heart. I believe Carmen’s death was that. Her cute smile and infectious little laugh is memorable. You could see the love they had when she would look up to Julius and her eyes with sparkle. May your memories bring you comfort and peace.
Robbin Roberts says
A long time ago, after a Superior snowfall, I happened to shovel the sidewalks around your house after finishing ours. A couple hours later your mother telephoned and asked if I could run over for a minute.
I can still see your mother as she met me at the kitchen door with a smile on her face and a spring in her step. In her hands she was holding a freshly baked, warm apple pie. She gifted me with that ENTIRE pie and I was only 10-years old at the time!
Growing up as close neighbors and friends we shared many occasions of happiness and sorrow together. The loving memories of both your parents will last forever. My thoughts and prayers are always with you all.
Steve Roberts says
I am saddened with the passing of Carmen. Both Carmen & JC had such a positive impact upon my life as as boy growing up and I am/will be forever grateful. My brother and I were so blessed living next door to the Christiansons.
In addition, I have so many wonderful memories of friendships with Denis & Ingrid.
A friend always
Steve