Paul J. Christensen

Paul "PJ" Christensen passed away Sunday, March 8, 2015 in Las Vegas. Paul is survived by his wife, Norma; children, Lee Christensen, Paula Christensen, Laura Haven (Craig) and James Christensen (Elizabeth); and sibling, Carl Christensen (Ellen). Paul was born Aug. 26, 1932, in Milford, Utah, and the family moved to Las Vegas in 1939. He graduated from Brigham Young University and entered the U.S. Air Force shortly after graduation. He married Norma Lee in 1953. He returned to Las Vegas after his tour in the Air Force and began working in the family jewelry business, MJ Christensen Jewelers. The couple welcomed four children into their home and eventually 11 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and one great- grandchild on the way. His children remember him as a good father who, while busy with politics, was never too busy for his family or friends. He was supportive and encouraged them to pursue their goals in life. Paul was an accomplished public servant and served as the State of Nevada TSA Chairman under Governors Miller and Guinn. He was elected to the Clark County Board of Commissioners and the Las Vegas City Council prior to serving at the TSA. He also served as Chairman of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, the Las Vegas Valley Water District Board, University Medical Center and Clark County Sanitation District. He was an active and dedicated member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Paul was also involved in various charities throughout his life in southern Nevada. Paul was a determined, funny, articulate individual with a can-do spirit who loved southern Nevada and who was passionate about dedicating his life to public service. While Paul enjoyed service to his community, his true love was his family, church and friends. Viewing is scheduled for 5-7 p.m. Friday, March 13, at Palm Mortuary, 1600 S. Jones Blvd. Funeral will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 14, at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3400 W. Charleston Blvd. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Paul's life. Donations can be made to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Missionary Fund, http://www.ldsphilanthropies.org/missionary.