Christian Marius “Christ” Christensen (1889-1918)

CHRISTENSEN, BRACKNEY, HIA

Posted By: Dorian Myhre (email)
Date: 11/22/2024 at 12:26:29

From Jewell Record October 24, 1918 (page 1)

OBITUARY OF CHRIST M. CHRISTENSEN

Christ M. Christensen, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Christensen of Ellsworth, died at sea October 3rd, following an attack of influenza. He is the first of the Ellsworth boys to give his life for his country in this great struggle for democracy.

On October 15th the family received a telegram signed by Brig. Gen. W. V. Judson conveying the sad news and asking advice as to the burial of the body. The parents asked to have the body sent to Ellsworth. On October 21st the body arrived, accompanied by Pvt. Angus L. Cotton, of Lone Rock, Iowa.

On account of the state quarantine only a few minutes service was held at the Christensen home. When the influenza epidemic is over memorial services will be held at the Lutheran church.

Christ M. Christensen was born January 6, 1889, at Jewell, here the first two years of his live was spent. Then the family moved onto a farm in Rose Grove township where they lived about two years. Thence they returned to Jewell, then to Auburn, Iowa, and again to Lake City, resided approximately two years at each place. In 1899 the family moved to Ellsworth. Here was his last earthly home. Here he lived 19 years, and was a quiet, unassuming young man, loved and respected by neighbors and acquaintances. Love for home distinguished him all his life. With the exception of three months he has not been away from home for any length of time, until he was called into military service on July 26th, on which date he left for Camp Gordon. He was soon transferred to Camp Merritt, N. J., and sailed for France, only to give his life while at sea. Although he never got the chance to take active part in the fight for his country, he has honored it and his community by making the supreme sacrifice. No man can do more than lay down his life for his home and country.

Besides his parents, the deceased leaves five sisters and five brothers to mourn his death. The sisters are: Mrs. L. R. Brackney of Radcliffe, Mrs. John Hia, whose husband is corporal in Co. F., 313 Supply Train, A. E. F.; and Dagmar, Ina and Lavera, who are at home. The brothers are: Herman of Bricelyn, Minn., Charley of Co. F., 313 Supply Train, A. E. F. and John, Melvin and Albert at home.

Deceased was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran church at Jewell.