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Ronald “RJ” Christensen
09-27-2026

Ronald “RJ” Christensen passed away on Sunday, September 27th, at his home after years of battling multiple health issues.

Ron was born and raised in Sioux Falls by his parents, Axel & Irene Christensen. After graduating from O’Gorman High School, Ron entered the military, serving during the Vietnam War as a Radio Operator. After his time in the service was over, he married the love of his life, Jeannie (Heck) Christensen. They spent the next 54 years loving & enjoying life together.    

Ron had a knack for being able to make anyone laugh. Whether it was his dry wit, his ability to pull off the perfect prank, or his reenactment of his annual “flying of the Thanksgiving turkey”, WKRP style. A few of the things that he cherished were listening to his classic rock albums, the San Francisco 49ers, and his GMC Yukon. Ron also enjoyed several outdoor activities such as golfing, hunting, fishing. If he wasn’t outside, he would be found relaxing in his happy place, his garage. He spent countless hours there watching his shows/movies, and enjoying his boat, even if it wasn’t in the water.

For 30 years, Ron was a dedicated UPS employee and member of the Teamsters Union. In 2008, Ron retired from his long-standing career. He traded in his delivery uniform and boots for shorts and moccasins. Allowing himself to slow down in his retirement, he was able to enjoy spending time at home with Jeannie. Ron enjoyed spending time with his family & interacting with the children that Jeannie cared for at her in-home daycare. Those children also became part of their extended family. His life centered around Jeannie and their great nephews, great-great nephews, and many other friends & family.

Ron is survived by his beloved wife, Jeannie (Heck) Christensen, and a brother-in-law, Will Heck of Sioux Falls, SD & his family, Nick & Nick Jr. Great nephews: Johnathan Meinders (Kortney Klein), of Sioux Falls, SD & Jeremy Meinders (Michaela), of Clark, SD. Ron was a wonderful father figure to Johnathan & Jeremy. Great-Great nephews: Carson Meinders & Winston Meinders (Johnathan) and Walker Meinders & Casey Meinders (Jeremy). He was known as “Papa” to all of his great-great nephews. His niece/goddaughter, Michelle (Kadinger) McIntyre (Pat) of Sioux Falls, SD, along with her daughters Shannon, Molly, and Meara who knew him as “Uncie” from their days at Jeannie’s Daycare. Alix Gukiesen & Arica Gukiesen were also included in Jeannie's Daycare and have continued to be a part of their extended family.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Axel & Irene Christensen. His family will miss him & love him, treasure all of the memories they have of him, and smile whenever those memories come to mind.