A.B. "Pete" Christenson Obituary (1924

A.B. "Pete" Christenson aka 'Chris', 88, a resident of the Forest Grove community died Sunday morning, February 17, 2013 at his home. A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 PM on Sunday, March 3, 2013 at the Homestead Community Club House; 4300 Settlers Loop in Forest Grove. Burial will take place at Willamette National Cemetery on Monday March 4, 2013 @ 1:00 p.m. Pete was born on July 25, 1924 in Lexington, Oregon. He was one of four children born to Ernest and Helen (Brown) Christenson. He was raised in Heppner and attended Monument High School. In 1942 Pete enlisted into the US Navy and served his country in the Pacific Theater during WWII. He was stationed on the USS Louisville and is a Kamikaze survivor. Pete earned a Purple Heart for his services and was honorably discharged in 1946. He met his future wife, K. Jeanette McDonald on a blind date in 1943 and after a two year long distant courtship they were married on March 11, 1945 in Mare Island, CA. Following their marriage Pete finished his duty to the US Navy and then in 1946 they made their home in Portland, OR. Following his retirement in 1981 they moved to Rufus, OR and then in 1991 they settled in Forest Grove, OR. Pete had worked for the Portland Police Dept for over 30 years, retiring in 1976. He had also worked as a bus driver for the Portland School district for five years. He enjoyed the outdoors and went hunting, fishing and camping with his family. He was an avid gardener, enjoyed trips to the coast and visiting Pacific City. He was also an active member of the VFW Post 2807 in Portland, OR. Pete served in all the Post's officers' positions and then became a State Officer. He enjoyed spending time with his children grandchildren and great grandchildren. His 'gift of gab' put strangers at ease and helped create many friendships. He is preceded in death by his parents and three siblings. Survivors include his loving wife, Jeanette, two sons and their spouses; Ronald B. and Ginger Christenson of Portland, OR, Martin L. and Susan Christenson of Eagle, ID, five grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. The family suggests donations in Pete's name to the Portland Police Sunshine Division.