Jerry G Christensen

June 7, 1948 – June 11, 2025

Jerry G. Christensen, known for his generous heart, sharp wit, and steadfast love for his family.

With heavy hearts but grateful spirits, we celebrate the life of Jerry G. Christensen, who passed away unexpectedly on June 11, 2025. Born on June 7, 1948, in Loup City, Nebraska, Jerry was the beloved son of Lucille and Clayton Christensen, and the proud older brother in a big, close-knit family.

From a young age, Jerry had a deep love for the land, spending his summers on his uncle’s farm in Litchfield—a place that sparked his lifelong love of nature, hard work, and simple joys. After graduating high school, he answered the call to serve his country and completed two tours in Vietnam as a proud U.S. Marine—a chapter of his life that shaped his resilience, humility, and strength.

Following his service, Jerry pursued a teaching degree, but after student teaching, he realized his true calling was elsewhere. He found his professional home with Lincoln Electric System, where he worked as a Journeyman Lineman for 38 years. Rain or shine, he was out there—climbing poles, restoring power, and serving his community with grit and dedication.

At home, Jerry cultivated more than just a beautiful garden—he grew a life full of love, laughter, and purpose. His legendary tomato garden was a sight to behold, producing over 150 quarts of canned tomato juice each year. But it was his role as husband, father, and "Papa" that truly lit him up.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife Judy Christensen of 44 years of marriage; sons Brett (Amanda) Christensen, Brian (Viviana) Christensen, and Kyle (Lindsay) Habben; and his adored grandchildren: Brooklyn, Zoe, Aria, Gideon, Jeter, Jared, and Jordan. He also leaves behind his siblings: Rick (Pat) Christensen, Bernice Lizer, Ron Christensen and Mike (Pam) Christensen.

He is preceded in death by his parents Lucille and Clayton, his brother-in-law and sister-in-law Ron and LeighAnn Hartman, and his dear mother-in-law Audrey Hartman.

Jerry had a big heart and an even bigger sense of humor. He loved pheasant hunting, fishing, camping, and spending hours on the phone with his best friend, deep in conversation about sports, horse racing, and politics. He never missed a chance to brag about his sons’ accomplishments or share a story about his grandkids—being "Papa" was his favorite job of all.

His was a life lived fully—with grit, laughter, and love. Jerry leaves behind a legacy of service, hard work, and fierce devotion to family. We will miss his booming voice, his sharp wit, and the warmth of his presence in our lives.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, June 20th at 10:00 AM at First Plymouth Church

2000 D Street, Lincoln, NE 68502. Burial will follow at 11:15 AM at Lincoln Memorial Park meeting at Gate#2 prior. A full lunch will be served afterward at Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home. All who knew and loved Jerry are welcome to attend and share memories.

Memorials can be made to the family and will be designated at a later time.