Lyle Christenson

Lyle M. "Chris" Christenson, age 89, died at his home on Sunday, November 4, 2012. He was born August 17, 1923 the son of Edwin and May Anna (MacFarlane) Christenson in St. Paul, Minnesota. Lyle was a 1941 graduate of Harding High School. Following graduation he enrolled at the University of Minnesota, and took a leave in 1943 to serve his country in the United States Navy. He served on the USS Sierra AD18 as Fire Controlman 1st Class. He was a plank owner, an original crew member and served his tour of duty in the South Pacific until his honorable discharge in 1946. Following discharge he returned to the University of Minnesota where he earned both a BS and Masters in Fishery Biology. Lyle met the love of his life Carol Keck in 1948, and their first date was the Forester's Ball. Together Lyle and Carol raised 3 children; Craig, who was killed in August of 1986 by a drunk driver at age 33, and daughters; Carolyn "Cally," and Cathryn "Cassie." Lyle was employed by the DNR, beginning in Black River Falls, and then transferred to Madison in 1957 where he was appointed Chief of Fishery Research in 1963. He loved his career, and continued doing research after retirement in 1993 at age 70. Lyle is survived by his daughters; Cally (Anthony Hrynczyszyn) Christenson, Cassie (David) Griffin, three beautiful grandchildren; Connor, Cayley, and Cole Griffin, a sister Evelyn, sister-in-law Vonnie (Lloyd) Olson, and cherished nephews and nieces, Scott, Garry, Wayne, Roy, Judy, Diane, Debbie, and their families. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Carol, son Craig, sister Ione, and a niece Karen. A memorial service will be held at 3:00 pm on Saturday, November 10, 2012 at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Rd., Madison, WI 53705, with visitation from 2:00 pm until the time of service. Military Honors will follow the service. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Lyle's name to the Natural Resource's Foundation of Wisconsin, P.O. Box 2317 Madison, WI 53701, or the charity of ones choice.