Kurt Houen Christensen

Born on August 12, 1941, in Vittrup, Denmark to Willy Christensen and Inga Houen Christensen, Kurt began a new chapter of his life when he immigrated to the United States in 1949 at the age of seven, alongside his parents and younger brother, Frank. The family settled in West Des Moines, Iowa, where Kurt grew up and graduated from Valley High School in 1960.

In 1963, Kurt married his high school sweetheart, Linda Bodeen, and together they raised two wonderful sons, Todd and Scott.

Kurt went on to establish himself as a prominent figure in the local construction and development industries. He served as the Director of Store Planning for Younkers Department Stores, guiding the company through years of expansion. Driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, Kurt eventually ventured out on his own, founding several businesses.

Kurt had a lifelong passion for golf, a game he shared with his brothers, sons and friends. A talented player, he maintained a single-digit handicap for most of his life. He also had a passion for his Danish heritage by teaching his family traditions and recipes passed down through generations.

His family meant the world to him, and he never missed a chance to say how lucky he felt to have them in his life.

He is survived by his loving sons, Todd (Holly) of Des Moines, IA, and Scott (Jodi) of Scottsdale, AZ; in addition, he is also survived by his brothers, Frank (Pam) of Crystal Lake, IL, and Eric (Becky) of West Des Moines, IA; and his grandchildren, Aimee, Jack (Alice), Ashley, Colin, Julia and Jane; and two great-grandchildren, Banks and Quincy; and dear friends, Connie Redd and family. He was preceded in death by his father, Willy Christensen and his mother, Inga Houen Christensen.

In loving memory of Kurt, his family will hold a visitation on Saturday December 6, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM and a funeral service from 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM at McLaren's Resthaven Chapel & Mortuary, located at 801 19th Street, West Des Moines, IA, 50265. Burial service immediately following the funeral service.

We want to thank the staff at Edencrest at Riverwoods for their love and support for Kurt. He had a special bond with Jordan, Jessica, Patty and Lindsay. They provided amazing care for him and we are grateful.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Animal Rescue League in his honor.