Robert “Bird” Christensen, 52, of Escanaba, died with his loving daughter, Deanna, at his side, Tuesday morning December 2, 2008, at the Pinecrest Medical Care Facility, following a courageous battle with cancer. 

Robert was born October 14, 1956, in Escanaba, the son of Roy and Elaine (Aiken) Christensen.  He was raised in Escanaba and attended and graduated from the Escanaba Senior High School.  Throughout his life, Robert worked at ESCAN and Lakeside Machine.  Eventually, Robert gained employment for L.E. Jones, in Menominee, where he worked until his health began to fail in November of 2007.  Robert enjoyed watching Detroit Red Wings hockey and Detroit Lions football.  He enjoyed hunting and was always excited to spend most of his time at the Mossy Horn Hunting Camp with his best friends, Pete and Paul Beauvais.  He will be dearly missed. 

Robert leaves to survive:

2 Daughters: Deanna and Alaina Christensen, both of Jacksonville, Florida

2 Brothers: Richard and Mike Christensen, both of Escanaba, MI

2 Sisters: Kerri (Thomas) Krause of Hyde, MI; Betty (Donald) Krause of Escanaba, MI

1 Grandchild: Adria

5 Nieces: Gina, Holly, Jill, Amy and Lisa

4 Nephews: Michael, Reid, Tommy and D.J.

In addition, survivors include, very special friends, Pete and Paul Beauvais, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. 

Robert was preceded in death by his father Roy in 1983 and his mother Elaine in 1995.

The Christensen family will receive friends on Sunday from 2:00PM to 4:00PM at the Skradski-Boyce Funeral Home in Escanaba.  Funeral services celebrating the life of Robert Christensen will follow visitation, at 4:00PM, at the Skradski-Boyce Funeral Home, with Pastor Christine Bergquist of OSF Hospice officiating.  Luncheon will follow at Jobber’s Sports Bar and Grill.  Committal will be in the Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery in Escanaba.  Contributions in Robert’s name may be directed to the Beacon House in Marquette or OSF Hospice.  Envelopes will be available throughout visitation.  The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are in care of arrangements.