Warren Gaylord Christiansen

Warren Gaylord Christiansen, age 90, passed away peacefully on October 2, 2025, with his family by his side. He was born in Seattle, Washington on July 2, 1935, and was the only child of Art and Irma Christiansen.

Warren spent his early years growing up in Seattle’s Phinney Ridge neighborhood, where he enjoyed playing baseball and hockey and taking piano lessons. He also spent cherished time at a family ranch house on Bainbridge Island, where his father was raised—an experience that fostered a lifelong appreciation for family, tradition, and the outdoors.

He attended Lincoln High School, where he played football, baseball, and swimming, demonstrating a love for sports that stayed with him throughout his life. He went on to the University of Washington, where he tried out for football and baseball and was a proud member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity, graduating with a degree in business.

In 1956, Warren married his high school sweetheart, Sandra Marie Talcott. Though eager to marry sooner, he waited until turning 21 at his parents’ request. Five days after his 21st birthday, Warren and Sandra were married, beginning a devoted and enduring partnership. Together, they raised three children: Gail, Linda, and Ray.

Warren and Sandy purchased their first home in North Seattle and later built a home in Woodway, where he and his family enjoyed many happy years. He built a long and successful career in the moving and storage industry, working for Smyth, Redball, and Bekins.

In 1966, shortly after completing their Woodway home, Warren’s work with Smyth took the family to Honolulu, Hawaii. The family loved their time there. While living in Hawaii, Warren learned to surf and returned to playing the piano, rekindling a lifelong passion.

In the early 1970s, the family returned to Woodway, where Warren’s love of the outdoors flourished. He enjoyed camping and hiking, spending time at the Banbridge Island family ranch house, taking memorable trips with family and friends while the children were growing up. A dedicated skier, he introduced his family to skiing and served for over 30 years as a volunteer ski patroller at Crystal Mountain.

Warren first visited Sun Valley, Idaho, in the early 1950s with Sandy and close friends, a trip that left a lasting impression. So beloved was the area that he and Sandy eventually purchased a condominium there with a group of friends, allowing them to enjoy their annual summer and winter visits.

After the children left home, Warren and Sandy traveled more, sharing adventures across Europe, Alaska, Hawaii, British Columbia, and, of course, Sun Valley, creating lifelong memories together.

After selling the Bainbridge Island ranch house, Warren and Sandy purchased a beach cabin in South Puget Sound at Taylor Bay, where he cherished time spent with family and friends, enjoying the beauty and tranquility of the water.

Later in life, Warren and Sandy sold their Woodway home and moved to a townhouse nearby Shoreline, Washington. As stairs became more challenging and age took its toll, they eventually relocated to the senior living community Brighton Court in Lynnwood, Washington, in 2022.

In early 2024, Sandy passed away. Warren continued to live surrounded by the love and support of his family, friends, and the new friendships he made at Fairwinds Brighton Court.

Warren was preceded in death by his parents, Art and Irma Christiansen, his wife, Sandy Christiansen, and his son-in-law, Steven Campagna. He is survived by his daughters, Gail Campagna and Linda Jepsen; son, Ray Christiansen (Paige McAllister); grandchildren, Adam (Morgan) Campagna, Alex Campagna, Britta (Chris) Windsor, Kelsey (Jacob) Reeb, Mia (Lars) Clark; 17 great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and friends.

Warren will be remembered for his devotion to family, his adventurous spirit, and his generous heart. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. A private memorial will be held later this summer.

In remembrance of Warren please consider donating to The Lighthouse for the Blind, 2501 S Plum St, Seattle, WA 98144.