James Neil Christensen

James Neil Christensen, 88, of Hillsdale, New Jersey, passed away on December 5th, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth, love, and a lifetime of cherished memories.

Born on December 7, 1934, in Manhattan, James spent his early years in Denmark, where his mother lovingly raised him. At age 4, he returned to Brooklyn and entered kindergarten, facing the challenge of learning English. This experience shaped his resilience, work ethic, and determination, defining his character throughout his life.

Jim dedicated 45 years of his career to Otis Elevator, starting in the mailroom at seventeen years old and working his way up to Regional Sales Manager of the Northeast. His hard work, perseverance, and dedication were evident in his professional journey, leaving a lasting impact on those he worked with.

Jim married his high school sweetheart, Marjorie Ann Christensen, who remained the love of his life until he passed. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and shared experiences, providing a solid foundation for their enduring marriage of 67 years.

Together, Jim and Ann built a family. He is predeceased by his daughter, Nancy Ann Christensen. In addition, he is survived by his daughter Carol Ann Christensen (Michael Suarez), and his son Neil James Christensen (Sarah), and five grandchildren: Katherine Suarez, Jillian Suarez, Emma Christensen, James Christensen, and Ashley Christensen.

A man of diverse passions, Jim found joy in singing in the church choir, cheering for the Brooklyn Dodgers, and spending vacations at Woodloch. Above all, he cherished his family, finding fulfillment in the love and connection they shared.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during the visitation at Becker Funeral Home on Friday, December 8th, from 4-8 pm. The funeral service will take place on Saturday, December 9th, at 10 am at Christ Lutheran Church, Woodcliff Lake, NJ, where we will gather to celebrate James's life, share memories, and find solace in the community he touched.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to one of the following charities in Jim’s name: Tri-Boro Food Pantry: http://triborofoodpantry.org (the comments section can say “In Memory Of James Christensen”) or ELCA World Hunger (checks should be made out to and sent to Christ Lutheran Church with the Memo saying “In Memory of James Christensen.” Food security was a cause that was close to his heart.

Following the burial service, all friends and family are warmly invited to join the repast to share memories, offer condolences, and support the Christensen family. The repast will be held at 156 Cedar Drive in Old Tappan from 12:30 - 4:00 on Saturday, providing an opportunity for everyone to come together, reminisce, and celebrate the life of James Neil Christensen.

The family will greatly appreciate your presence and support during this time of mourning. Together, we can find solace in the shared memories and the love James brought into our lives.

Thank you for your understanding, compassion, and presence as we honor the memory of James Neil Christensen.

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Sarah Larsen Christensen