Alvin E. Christianson

Alvin E. Christianson, 86 of Viroqua, died Wednesday, February 23, 2011. Alvin E. Christianson, 86 of Viroqua, died Wednesday, February 23, 2011 at Vernon Memorial Hospital.Alvin was born on August 15, 1924 to Elmer and Inga (Tollackson) Christianson. Alvin graduated from Viroqua High School, class of 1943. Following his graduation from radio school, he served in the Merchant Marines as a radio operator and Ships Purser. After the service, he was united in marriage on October 26, 1947 to Allene Nelson and together they farmed side by side. Alvin loved his family and dairy and tobacco farming, helping his neighbors and caring for his land. He was baptized and confirmed and a life member of Bethel Lutheran Church. He served on the Bethel Church Council and Bethel West Coon Prairie Cemetery Board. Alvin served on the Vernon County FSA and Land Conservation Committees. He also served on the following: Northern Wisconsin Tobacco Pool Board, Tobacco Expo Committee, Interim Manager of Vernon County Farm, Vernon Coop Oil Association Board, Clerk of Jefferson Township and Board, and a member of the North Springville School Board. He was also a member of the American Legion. Alvin enjoyed his involvement on the various boards and committees. Throughout Alvins live, he enjoyed greeting and talking with old friends and making new ones. Alvin is survived by his wife, Allene; daughter-in-law, Pat Christianson of Apple Valley, MN; children: Marcus (Sara) Christianson of Viroqua, Marsha (Mike) Ryan of La Crescent, MN, Ryan (Nora) Christianson of Viroqua; grandchildren: Tara (Pete) Peterson, Dr. Lucas (Dr. Lee) Christianson, Nick (Heather) Christianson, Ben and Katy Christianson, Kim Ryan, Holly (Rex) Delgado, Ryanna and Carly Christianson; great grandchildren: Robbie and Fernando Souza, Taysa Peterson and Kaleb Delgado; sister, Norma Nelson of Viroqua; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Rodney, grandchildren, Wendy (Dan) Thicke; and brothers: Telmer, Orville, Olaf, Elmer Jr. and Donald.Due to the Fire at the Bethel Church, funeral services will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 2:00 P.M. Sunday, February 27th. Pastor Kris Fahey will officiate. Burial with military honors will follow in Bethel Church Cemetery. Friends may call on Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Vosseteig-Larson Funeral Home, 123 W. Decker (Hwy 56) in Viroqua. Friends may also call at the church on Sunday from 1 p.m. until the time of the service.The Vosseteig-Larson Funeral Home of Viroqua is serving the family.