James Julius Christenson

James J. Christenson, 88 of Yakima, WA went to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, November 16, 2017 at Cottage in the Meadow, in Yakima, WA. Born April 19, 1929 to Alfred and Constance Christenson.

James was survived by his wife of 67 years, Ethlyn (Effie) Christenson. He was very proud of his children, Sandy Hartung of Selah, WA, Becky Ruff of Kennewick, WA, Mary Taylor of Madison, Wisconsin, Daniel James Christenson of Seattle, WA, and Julie Brown of Selah, WA. He is also survived by his sister, Esther Wine of Lynden, WA.

James’ grandchildren were his pride and joy. He was blessed with 30 grandchildren, 52 great grandchildren, and one great-great grandchildren. The legacy of James’ sweet spirit will live on through them.

James is now reunited with his brothers, Robert Christenson, Donald Christenson, and John Christenson.

James lived a very full life, raising his family on his apple orchard in Cowiche, WA. He invented the straddle trailer in 1955. It revolutionized the transportation of fruit from the farm to the warehouse. He enjoyed playing basketball and swimming at the YMCA. He had a giving heart and helped many in need.

When he sold his apple orchard, he went to work for Washington Fruit and Produce as a fieldman. He enjoyed his job and interacting with farmers in Yakima and the Lower Valley. He retired at the age of 83.

We little knew that evening

That God would call your name.

In life we loved you dearly,

In death we do the same.

It broke our hearts to lose you

But you did not go alone.

For part of us went with you

The day God called you home.

You left us beautiful memories,

Your love is still our guide.

And though we cannot see you,

You are always by our side.

Our family chain is broken

And nothing seems the same,

But as God calls us one by one,

The chain will link again.

A funeral service will be held at Rainier Memorial Center at Terrace Heights on Saturday, December 2, 2017 at 11:00 a.m.

To share a memory of James visit www.keithandkeith.com.