Ivan Christensen Obituary and Death: Gregory County, South Dakota, Mourns the Loss of a Devoted Husband, Father, and Community Pillar
Ivan Christensen, a respected resident of Gregory County, South Dakota, passed away peacefully at his home on June 3, 2024, surrounded by his loving wife of 67 years, Luella, and their children. Ivan’s life was a testament to his strong faith, dedication to family, and commitment to serving others.
Born on October 14, 1934, in a farmhouse in Gregory County, Ivan was the fourth of five sons to Edward and Mary (Hull) Christensen. From a young age, Ivan demonstrated a natural talent for repairing engines and machinery, which led him to start working at the age of 14 to save money for his first car.
Ivan’s sense of duty and service led him to join the U.S. Army in June 1956, following in his brothers’ footsteps. He served as a military police officer in Germany and later at Fort Benning, Georgia, before being honorably discharged from the South Dakota National Guard after four years of service.
During his military leave in November 1956, Ivan married the love of his life, Luella (Swift), and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and a strong commitment to their family and community. Ivan’s dedication to his work as a mechanic and wrecker service owner earned him a loyal following of customers who appreciated his honesty, trustworthiness, and expertise.
Ivan’s legacy extends far beyond his professional accomplishments, as he was a devoted father to four children and a foster father to many more. His love and guidance had a profound impact on the lives of countless young people, and his influence will be felt for generations to come.
Ivan is survived by his wife, Luella; children, Tim, Marcy, Carla, and Luann; eight grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; brother, Dale; and numerous nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, younger brother Laurel, brothers Lyle and Richard, and sisters-in-law Gloria, Barbara, and Viola.
A memorial service will be held at Rock Haven Church in Montevideo on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at 11:00 AM, followed by burial at Sunset Memorial Cemetery. A visitation with the family will take place on Friday, June 7, 2024, from 5 to 7 PM at Anderson-TeBeest Funeral Home in Montevideo, with a prayer service at 7 PM.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Gideons International’s local camp at PO Box 241, Montevideo, MN. Ivan’s life was a shining example of faith, love, and service, and his memory will continue to inspire and uplift those around him.
