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Mark William Christen

CHRISTEN, PALMER, WOLFORD, HASSERT, ALGER

Posted By: Sarah Fletcher (email)
Date: 7/13/2021 at 11:10:24

Mark William Christen, 78, former resident of West Des Moines, IA, passed away peacefully at his home in Iowa City on July 7, 2021.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date with details to be posted when decided. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the ALS Association (https://www.als.org/donate).

Mark was born January 19, 1943, on the family farm in Clayton County, IA to Elmer and Gertrude (Palmer) Christen. He grew up in the Guttenberg area, graduating from Garnavillo High School in 1960. He served in the United States Navy from 1962-1966. He then enrolled in the University of Iowa, graduating in 1970.

Mark married Lorna Wolford, August 7, 1971, in Iowa City. Mark had a long banking career throughout the State of Iowa and retired in 2005. He was also a part-time flight instructor who introduced many people to his love of flying.

Mark had many hobbies. He loved airplanes, classic cars, and reading science fiction, but enjoyed spending time with his friends and family the most. One of his proudest moments was being named an honorary Italian by his friends at Tumea & Son’s Restaurant in Des Moines. However, being a grandfather to his grandchildren brought him the most joy in life.

The family wishes to sincerely thank Oaknoll at Home, Iowa City Hospice, the Iowa City VA Hospital, Superior Care Iowa and the dear people at VA Home Based Primary Care for the wonderful care and support given, not only to Mark but also to his family.

He is survived by his wife Lorna Christen of Iowa City, IA; daughter Sara Christen-Hassert of Tinley Park, IL; son Ben (Colleen) Christen of Lincoln, CA; four grandchildren Renee Hassert, Nicholas Christen, Caroline Christen, and Mia Christen; one brother Lyle (Sony) Christen of Burlington, IA; sister-in-law Lois (Mike) Alger of Blue Grass, IA, and many extended family members and lifelong friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two siblings, Linda and Eddie.

Lensing Funeral & Cremation Service
 

Johnson Obituaries maintained by Cindy Booth Maher.
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