Neil Clinton Christensen was born on January 3, 1929 in Jamestown, Kansas to Myron and Gertie Christensen. He was preceded in death by his three sisters, Mary Dell, Alma, and Alice. As a child he moved to Vivian, South Dakota outside the Indian reservation, and later to Aberdeen, South Dakota where his father owned and operated a trucking company.
Neil graduated from Aberdeen Central High School in 1947 and then attended Northern State College in Aberdeen, South Dakota where he graduated with an Associates Degree in Business. Neil served in the Army from August 1952-September 1954 and was honorably discharged.
On November 20, 1949, he married Lucille Grace Glodt and together they had a family of five children, Mary Lynn, John Scott, Steven Neil, Kathleen Ann, and Niki Claire. Neil was the blessed grandfather of 9 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren.
In 1958, Neil and Lucille moved from Aberdeen South Dakota to Salem, Oregon where he was given the opportunity to work for the Statesman Journal Newspaper. After a short period of time, Neil started a new business in construction. Neil built many single-family homes and businesses in the Salem area. He designed and built their dream home in South Salem. Neil and Lucille spent most of their married life in Salem, Oregon. Neil confirmed his faith and became a member of Redeemer Lutheran Church on January 29, 1967. Neil and Lucille were active in the congregation and he supported many church functions.
Neil’s greatest passion was motorcycles. For many years, he and Lucille traveled with the “Retreads Motorcycle Club” enjoying great adventures all over the United States and Canada.
Neil loved music! He was an accomplished harmonica player and enjoyed teaching and repairing harmonicas. His passion included the clarinet and singing for his church, family, and friends. He loved music and had a beautiful tenor voice. He was a member of a boys’ choir during his early years, sang many solos, and one of his greatest joys was to sing at each of his children’s weddings.
Neil went to be with his Lord on September 29th 2019 after a long full life. He passed away surrounded by his family, and is now with his blessed wife, and his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
A graveside service for Neil will be held Thursday, October 3, 2019 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Belcrest Memorial Park, 1295 Browning Ave SE, Salem, OR 97302.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hed-fh.com for the Christensen family.
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