Obituary of Robert Peter Christianson

Robert Peter Christianson, age 84, of Wisconsin Rapids, entered into his eternal rest on Saturday, March 5, 2016. Services will be at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, March 12, 2016 at Christian Life Fellowship in Port Edwards. Pastor Paul Liebherr will officiate. Burial with military honors will be at Riverside Cemetery in Nekoosa. Visitation will be from 9:00 A.M. until the time of services on Saturday at the church. Herman-Taylor Funeral Home in Wisconsin Rapids is assisting the family. Robert was born July 22, 1931 in Chetek, Wisconsin to Peter and Bertha (Smith) Christianson. He spent his early years working the family farm with his four brothers: Jerry, Dwayne, Arthur and Vernon and two sisters: Delores and Shirley. He then worked in the Milwaukee area at Ampco Metal Inc. In 1951 he was drafted into the US Army where he proudly served in the Korean conflict. He was decorated with five combat service awards. After returning, he married Mary Ann Matthews, which later ended in divorce. They had seven children: Linda Halverson, Doug Christianson (Nicki), Janet Steeno (John), Greg Christianson (Carrie), Gary Christianson, Donald Christianson, and Sandra Schroeder (Scott). He has 17 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild. Robert later married Darlene Ystad, which also ended in divorce. He spent the last 23 years with his "special sweetheart" Deanna Wagner and her children: Janet, Gayle, Lori, Mary, Debbie, Louella, Jimmy, Kim, and Rhonda; 20 grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, a grandson, and two of Deanna's daughters. Robert gave his life to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He regularly attended Christian Life Fellowship in Wisconsin Rapids. He was well loved by his church family. Robert is now safely home, his final destination has been reached. He will be missed by those he has left behind.