Norman Leo Christenson

Norm was born in Tacoma Washington on February 21, 1933. He passed on March 31, 2025. Dad was 92.

The youngest of three children of Jack and Julia Christenson. Dad attended Holy Cross Catholic school for 8 years. Then moved to Mason Jr. High and finally on to Stadium High School, graduating in 1951.

After graduation, dad enlisted in the Navy and was a 3rd class petty officer with the 124 fighter squadron (also known as the Airedales). He saw action on three different carriers in Korea, the latest with the USS Oriskany.

After serving in the Navy, dad came home and married Rebecca (Becky) Tallman. They had four children: Rick, Anthony, Shelley and Greg.

Dad attended Clover Park Technical College and obtained his airframe and powerplant license. He worked for several local companies before settling in at Flett Dairy, where he worked for more than 30 years, eventually becoming part of the ownership group. He was proud of that dairy and has lifelong friends and memories as a result of it.

He was preceded in death by his wife Becky, his parents (Jack & Julia), siblings (Robert & Iris), and two of his children Anthony & Shelley.

Dad was a member of many local fraternal organizations including the Bellarmine Boosters, Elks and the Knights of Columbus. He was a devout catholic and a lifelong member of Holy Cross Parish; serving on many committees including as president of the St. Vincent de Paul Society for many years.

Dad had the “gift of gab”. He was genuine, a hard worker and lived in a time where relationships were made through face to face conversations. He was always active; including as a member of the “monday night” bowling league (New Frontier/Narrows Plaza) and played slow pitch for many teams including the Knights of Columbus (#809) and Walt's Towing. He enjoyed travelling. In his later years, he picked up golf with his companion Agnes Benson.

His favorite pastime was being with family and friends. No matter the size of the get together, he could be observed, “working the room”. He would move around, grabbing someone by the arm, checking in on them, always with a laugh and a smile.

Dad is survived by his two sons; Greg (Michelle), Rick (Naomi), Grandchildren Ethan, Aiden & Becca (Michael), and great granddaughter Harper.

Dad truly enjoyed life and was proud of his Norwegian heritage. He will be missed greatly.

A Catholic Rosary service will be held at 7:00 pm on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at Gaffney Funeral Home Chapel.

Mass of Catholic Burial will follow on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at 11:00 am at Holy Cross Parish, with burial in the Cloisters at Calvary Cemetery.