Robert G Christiansen

Robert George Christiansen, Sr., (Bob), 93, passed peacefully at his home in Homewood on Wednesday, February 5th. He is survived by two sons, Robert G. Christiansen, Jr. (Linda) of Villa Rica, GA; Mike Christiansen (Gail), and one daughter, Cindy Christiansen Ferguson, of Dothan; seven grandchildren: April Christiansen Rich (Justin), Villa Rica, GA; Adam Christiansen (Hannah), Vail, CO; Angelica Christiansen Gagliardi (Joey), Carrollton, GA; Jessica Christiansen, Caroline Christiansen Stringer (Drew), Dothan; Cam Ferguson and Mark Ferguson, Madison; and 12 great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by his sister, Jean Christiansen Freeman, of Alabaster; five nephews and two nieces: Guy Freeman (Angie), Alabaster; Barry Freeman (Katie), Hoover; Jeff Freeman (Debbie), Homewood; Lynn Christiansen Bell, Louisville, KY; MaryJean Christiansen Archer, Birmingham; Billy Christiansen, Nashville, TN; Bobby Christiansen (Carol), Birmingham; and several great- and great-great-nieces and nephews.

Mr. Christiansen was preceded in death by his parents, William and Mitylene Christiansen of Homewood; and his brother, Bill Christiansen of Vestavia Hills.

In his early years, Christiansen’s talent on the baseball field was evident during high school. He hit .517 for Shades-Cahaba High School during his senior year and was tabbed as a future major league prospect and was awarded a baseball scholarship to the University of Mississippi. He was also a 1952 All Southeastern Conference selection in baseball. After college, he joined the U. S. Army and trained to become a paratrooper.

His journey from youth sports to the University of Mississippi, his honorable service to his country, and community coaching youth baseball created a legacy that lives on through memories of his athletic ability and his love for family.

Graveside service will be held Friday, February 14th, at 2:00 p.m. at Elmwood Cemetery in Birmingham. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in memory of Mr. Christiansen to the University of Mississippi Athletic Department.