Richard John Christians, son of John and Laura (Meyer) Christians, was born April 17, 1923 in Nobles County in Worthington, Minnesota. He was baptized and confirmed by Rev. H. G. Schipper in Nobles County. He began his education at Avoca Elementary in Murray County. In 1939, he moved with his parents to Grant County, where he continued his education and helped on the farm. On May 30, 1944, Richard enlisted in the United States Army, where he served in WWII. On June 8, 1946, he received an honorable discharge. Richard returned to Grant County, where he purchased 160 acres which he farmed for 20 years. On December 3, 1953, he was united in marriage to Deloris M. Johnson at St. John?s Lutheran Church in Donnelly. The couple lived in Norcross and continued to farm. Richard also drove school bus; worked for Elbow Lake Coop Grain and the Telephone Company. For over 17 years he also worked for Duane Hamele. Deloris died on May 6, 2003 and Richard has remained in Norcross since that time.
Richard was a member of Our Savior?s Lutheran Church in Norcross for 40 years. He was a very avid reader, especially History and Western books. There probably wasn?t a book from the Viking Land Bookmobile that he did not read. He especially liked spending time with family and friends.
Richard died on Saturday, June 3, 2006 at the West Wind Village in Morris, having lived to reach the age of 83 years.
He is survived by his brother: Stanley (Anna) Christians of Stacey, MN; sisters: Edna Schipper of Flandreau, SD, Ida Johnson of Donnelly, MN; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Richard was preceded in death by his parents: John and Laura; wife: Delores; brother: Edward; sister: Mildred Schipper.
Pallbearers for the service are: Kenneth Bartell, Duane Hamele, Roger Derby, Luther Thompson, Leonard Rosin, Sylvan Prothero. Honorary Pallbearers will be: Richard, Kevin and Alan Johnson and Doug Schipper. Kathy Rotvold will serve as organist and Kenneth Bartell will be the soloist. Military Honors will be provided by the Herman American Legion. Pedersen Funeral Home of Morris is in charge of arrangements.