Lavern "Vern" Christiansen, age 83, of 10577 North Main Street, Rapid River, went to be with the Lord Thursday morning December 13, 2007.

Vern was born January 30, 1924, in Rapid River, the son of Rudolph and Frances (Johnson) Christiansen. Vern married his wife of twenty five years, the former Carol Murchie, in Lake View, Iowa and together the couple resided in Rapid River their entire married life. Vern was a member of the IBEW Local Union #876, for fifty two years. Throughout the years Vern was employed for Clifton Engineering working construction jobs setting high line poles. In addition, Vern was also a wonderful wood craftsman. He loved dogs, especially his dog, Cuddles. Vern was a kind and loving husband, step-father and grandfather and will be missed by all of us, more than words can say. Rest in peace Vern. You earned your heavenly rewards. We will always love you.

In addition to his wife of twenty five years, Carol, Vern is survived by:

1 Step Son: James Vollmer of Cottage Grove, MN

2 Step Daughters: Lynnette (John) Johnson of Soo Hill, MI; Rachel Vollmer of San Francisco, CA

1 Brother: Courtney Christiansen of Three Rivers, MI

1 Brother in law: Mike Murchie of Mesa, AZ

6 Sisters in law: Ruth (Lauren) Grobe of Rapid River, MI; Shirley Murchie of Flint, MI; Nancy Miron of Stockbridge, MI; Lois (Harry) Schieb of Linden, MI; Florence Christiansen of Wells, MI; Violet Christiansen of Gladstone, MI

Special Nephew: James Murchie Jr. of Flint, MI

Special Friends: Joe Micheau, Donna Lewis, Amanda Houlton and Gail Zierk

Thank you for all the support and your kind and caring ways during the last few months of Vern’s illness.

In addition, Vern is survived by 9 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Vern was preceded in death by his parents, Rudolph and Frances:

2 Brothers: Randolph and Harlon Christiansen

1 Step Son: Gary Vollmer

1 Step Grandchild: Chad Vollmer

3 Brothers in law: Jim, Jack and Bob Murchie

3 Sisters in law: Violet Christiansen, Betty Wilson and Mary Wasner
 
Memorial services celebrating the life of Lavern "Vern" Christiansen have been scheduled for Saturday December 22, 2007, at 11:00AM, at the Rapid River Congregational Church with Pastor Bill Rafuse officiating. Luncheon will follow in the church fellowship hall. The Christiansen family would like to extend a special warm hearted thank you to the Pinecrest Medical Care Facility for their excellent care and their kind and compassionate nursing staff who cared for Vern. Also to Dr. Dehlin for all the help over the last couple of years while Vern was ill at home. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the Christiansen family with arrangements.