Harlow Brian Christenson

On October 29th, 2024, Harlow Brian Christenson of Crystal, MN died peacefully at home surrounded by family. Harlow was born June 2, 1945 in Lake Charles, LA, the oldest child of Howard and Edna Christenson. He was preceded in death by his loving parents and his sister Irene Jill Lewis. Known as "Mr. C", Harlow was an elementary school teacher for the Madison Metropolitan School District for more than 30 years before retiring in 2002. He was known by many students over the decades as a favored and "funny" teacher, and by his peers as a source of amusement or bewilderment ...it could go either way. He loved a well-written book and was particularly happy when he was able to inspire a love of the written word in children. He had a fondness for the Gobblefunk of Roald Dahl and loved a good prime number. Harlow's humor was one of his defining characteristics and he was always writing comedic bits. Most of the time they lived in his mind, described over dinner or at small family gatherings. Occasionally these Harlow-mini-movies would come to life at a staff meeting, in his classroom, or even from the pulpit when asked to do a scripture reading. When we were able to return the favor and make him laugh, we felt that we had reached a high bar - he gave us all the gift of joining him in a mild and gentle shaking of social norms and absurdities. Harlow loved life and was brave. Though not afraid, he was sad to leave us. He was the happiest and most fulfilled with his family and friends. He was an amazing listener, a tireless cheerleader, and touched many lives. He loved his dogs and grand-dogs. Millie the rescue pittie holds down the fort now. He is survived by his partner in life, love and laughter, his wife Pam Christenson; his beloved daughters Kelly (David) Janda, and Erica Christenson (Bret Wieseler); his sister Emily Power; his most adored and adorable grandchildren Ellie, Pete, and Olive; his dear siblings-in-law Greg, Jeremy, Peg, Beth, and Fred; his cherished bunch of special nieces and nephews; and don't even get us started on those surviving cousins. Harlow's sunlit spirit, his quiet joy and his abundant kindness will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. A gathering to remember Harlow will be held on Saturday November 23 at Washburn-McReavy Glen Haven Chapel in Crystal, Minnesota. If you care to make a donation in his memory, Harlow's favorite charities were Doctors Without Borders and Second Harvest Heartland.

Tributes

Harlow Brian Christenson

June 2, 1945 - October 29, 2024

Tributes

Harlow Brian Christenson

June 2, 1945 - October 29, 2024

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