Dean Edward Christensen

Dean Edward Christensen, Sun City West, Arizona, 1942- 2018 (Age76).Dean E. Christensen, 76, of Sun City West, AZ, was received into the loving arms of our Lord and Savior on December 6, 2018. After years of battling many chronic diseases while never complaining, his mortal shell could not keep up with his unbreakable spirit. Dean's strong will to live, unwavering faith in God and his love for family and friends carried him through his earthly journey.Dean was born August 13, 1942, in Elkhorn, WI to Edward and Ellen (Hill) Christensen. He was the second of three children. From his humble beginnings, Dean propelled himself forward throughout his life with a competitive spirit and strong will to succeed. His creativity and charismatic personality made a mark on anyone who met him along the way. Following high school, Dean attended Layton School of Art in Milwaukee for one year. His path took a dramatic turn as he ventured into the business world, first taking a job with AB Dick in Milwaukee, WI. Dean's potential soon outgrew his opportunity when he caught the eye of a valuable client - Bell + Howell, who became his lifelong employer. Dean discovered his gift for sales and eventually became a regional sales manager. He also held a patent for the company that helped to change the postal industry. After 28 years, Dean retired from Bell + Howell. Dean's exciting journey in business was equally matched by his personal journey which led him from Wisconsin to Missouri, then on to Texas and finally to Arizona where he truly felt at home.Dean's creativity knew no bounds. Whether it was in recreational painting, remodeling his many homes, landscaping or interior design, Dean was an artist in every sense. Throughout his life, Dean remained physically active. He was an avid sports fan and delighted in the fact that his would rejoin his beloved St. Louis Cardinals in Arizona! Although Dean knew success, he also was not a stranger to life's challenges. He was a strong member of the fellowship of AA. With over 40 years of sobriety, Dean sponsored many people in their recovery. Always a faithful believer, Dean was not afraid to share his faith in Jesus and the joy it brought him in sharing it with others.Dean is survived by his children: Connie (Rick) Weiss of Fond du lac, WI, Brett (Brandee) Christensen of Wild Rose, WI, Bart (Leeann) Christensen of Fond du Lac, WI, and Erik Christensen of Wilmington, IL. Dean leaves behind 11 grandchildren: Miranda, Madysen, Katie, Kyle, Jorden, Hayden, Anyssa, Kirre, Xeidryn, Shaylin and Tehya. Dean remained close with sisters, Carol Tyrrell of Indianapolis, IN and Barbara Christensen of Austin, TX along with 3 nieces, Tracy Koehler, Kris Marshall and Kari Engle. Dean was preceded in death by his parents.Dean's family would like to thank the caring people at Fresenius Medical Care, Del E. Webb Medical Center and all those who helped him through his medical battles. A special thank you to Dean's spiritual family at Church on the Green along with Lanny, his dear friend and constant companion."We rejoice with you, Dean, that have found your way home!"