Christiansen – Erland Johannes Christiansen of Brooks, beloved father, grandpa, great grandpa, and uncle, passed away in Brooks, on Sunday, October 8th, 2023, at the age of 96 years. Erland was born to David and Marie Christiansen on July 31st,1927 in Hardy, Nebraska, where he was the second youngest of six children. The Christiansen family moved to Tilley early in 1930 to start their life of farming. Even as a little boy Erland always loved farm life, although he wasn’t fond of going out in the hills to find the cows on horseback. He never did develop a love for horses! Erland received his schooling in the Tilley area and went on to Bible School in Camrose, where he met a beautiful girl named Esther Wold. They fell in love and were married on April 26th, 1950 and they partnered on the farm in Tilley for 66 years. He really enjoyed farming, and was always happy to be on a machine, especially a combine. Erland loved woodworking, spending many hours in his shop making candleholders, shelves, model machinery and whatever else his family would request him to build. He enjoyed music and was an excellent bass singer. Erland was involved in quartets, choirs and worship teams. His faith was an important part of his life and he tried to live it out daily. Erland and Esther were very hospitable, ready to welcome people into their home, where the coffee pot was always on. He and Esther loved travel and made many trips together over the years. Erland and Esther were married for 72 years, having many wonderful memories together. He was predeceased by his wife Esther, son Dale and son-in-law Bob. Erland is survived by daughter Sharon; son Rick (Kathie); daughter-in-law Lynn; seven grandchildren, Michael, Shannon (Dallas), Kathy, Robert (Katie), Karla (Justin), Matthew and Katelyn and thirteen great grandchildren, Taylor (Michael), Jordyn, Alexander, Kelli (Nick), Ethan, Cameron, Masyn, Amelia, Kacey, Jennifer, Charles, Harrison and Liam; sisters-in-law, Irma and Marion and numerous nieces and nephews. Erland was thankful, generous and hospitable. He loved well and was loved. We will miss him very much. Funeral services were held on Monday, October 16th at 2:00 PM from the Brooks Alliance Church. Rev. David Bradford officiated. Interment at Bethany Lutheran Church Cemetery. In memory of Erland, if friends desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to a charity of choice.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to:
SMITH FUNERAL HOME LTD. AND CREMATORIUM
BROOKS, ALBERTA
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