Norman J. "Chris"  Christensen, 79, Washington, died Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, at St. Clair Nursing Center, St. Clair, MO, after a lengthy illness.

Norman was born Jan. 12, 1936 in Detroit, Michigan to Jens Christensen and wife Ina Anderson.

He graduated from Lincoln High School, Ferndale, Michigan, in 1954 and from Ferris Institute in Big Rapids, Michigan, in 1960, with a B.S. Degree in Commerce.

He was united in marriage to Doreen Rennert at Holy Ghost Lutheran Church in Monroe, Michigan, Aug. 8, 1964.

Norman proudly served as the first full-time security officer at Ferris Institute and worked many years in advertising and sales. He had a wonderful sense of humor and enjoyed telling jokes and stories. He was a lifelong member of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod.

He is survived by his daughter, Kara Bell, and husband Kurt, Washington; one granddaughter, Emily Bell, Independence; one grandson, Zane Bell, Washington; and extended family and friends.

Norman was preceded in death by his parents Jens and Ina Christensen; his wife, Doreen Christensen; and nephew Ryan Rennert.

A graveside service will be held in Big Rapids, Michigan in the summer.