Otto Christensen

Peacefully at age 97, surrounded by loving family. Survived by beloved wife of 68 wonderful years, Ruth Marion Christensen (nee Cox). Pre-deceased by siblings Johan, Aase, Svend. Loving father of John, Judith (Gary), Douglas (Caroline), David (Barbara) and Carla (Randy). Dedicated and loving “Papa” to nine wonderful grandchildren: Laura, Lindsay, Fiona, Carl, Lee, Sarah, Daniel, Justin and Charles.

Chris was born in Copenhagen, Denmark in 1918, the son of Carl Christensen and Agnes Jensen. He immigrated with his family in 1930 to PEI. He later served in the Canadian Army during WWII, and as a UN Peacekeeper in Egypt. Chris retired as a Canadian Forces officer in 1973, moving from Ontario to Sidney, BC. Throughout a richly fulfilled life, Chris loved family gatherings at home in the magical sunroom he built, as well as golfing, fishing, boating, model trains, building projects, and driving his pearl-white Cadillac. A disciplined man who loved order, Chris could also surprise us by putting on a crazy wig or mask, laughing heartily.

Affectionately known as our own “Great Dane,” Papa was one-of-a- kind in terms of his strength, compassion and legendary work ethic. No challenge was too difficult. He was an award-winning gardener, and, earlier in life, a farmer, lumberjack, Canadian soldier, War Veteran, chef, food-services director and teacher. Thanks to his exceptionally intelligent mind, Papa could build or fix anything, earning him constant admiration. Until age 96, he did all the family’s tax returns. He loved nothing more than a lively game of “‘hook the bar,” cribbage or hockey games on TV.

Papa is sorely missed. He fought hard until the end. He will always be remembered as a wonderful, charming man with an uplifting spirit, and a smile that could light up a room. He was warm, generous and creative, always wanting to make things better for others. Papa was larger than life. He cherished living and, above all, deeply loved his wife and family. We extend sincere gratitude from our family to the wonderful Nurses and Doctors at the Saanich Peninsula Hospital.

Arrangements under the direction of First Memorial Funeral Services, Victoria, BC.