Jeffrey Christensen

Although he held earthly treasures, the single most important thing in Jeff Christensen’s life was his family. He shared a special and unique bond with them that will be forever etched in their hearts. A warm, loving, and caring individual, Jeff had a wonderful way with people which made it a treasure to have known him. Compassion was a heartfelt gift he freely gave to others, and he did so abundantly. A wonderful example, mentor and friend, Jeff will be truly missed and remembered, but his love lives on through each of those he touched.

The 1980s brought many changes to our world. Ronald Reagan was the 40th President of the United States during the Iran Contra Scandel while Princess Diana continued to hold a special place in the hearts of people the world over. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles made their debut and continue to be a favorite of children to this day. The 80s were also a time of change for a young couple from West Olive, Michigan. Bill and Shelly (Lutke) Christensen were blessed beyond measure with the birth of their first child. A child they lovingly named Jeffrey Allen who was born on Thanksgiving Day, November 24, 1988, at Holland Hospital. The first boy in the family, everyone in his family was overjoyed. However, Jeffrey wasn’t the only boy in his family for long. He was delighted when his little brother Chad was born, and loved his role and responsibility as a big brother. Always watchful of his little brother so he wouldn’t get hurt, he was a great mentor to him over the years. They both held a deep love for each other and remained very close.

Growing up in West Olive, Jeff shared many experiences and adventures. Getting his first bb gun was one of his greatest joys during his childhood, and after just a few days of practice, Jeff had become a great shot. Family was important to Jeff, and some of his greatest times were spent enjoying their love and company. He especially loved sitting around the fire pit with them and hanging out with friends. Great times were shared perch fishing as a family not to mention the awesome times spent three wheeling. Jeff attended the area schools and graduated in 2007 from Holland Christian High School where he played on the football team. The world was truly before him and he held many dreams and aspirations for the future.

Jeff and his dad were nearly inseparable. He worked hard and in partnership with the family business, Christensen Fiberglass, right alongside his mother and father. A brilliant team, Jeff and his dad could solve anything that was placed before them, as long as they did it together. Whether it was at home, work or play, Jeff and his Dad were very much alike. They shared mutual compassion and respect not only for one another, but for everyone they encountered. Jeff was really looking forward to the day when his younger brother Chad could join the family business as well. He treasured his brother and made it a point to attend each of his football games. In fact, Jeff and Chad loved watching Southpark together, and he quite often enjoyed boxing matches on TV with his Dad. Bill, Jeff, and Chad were even planning on coaching a rocket football team together next fall. Another sign of the bond he had with his family and community. Monday nights were particularly special. His favorite TV show was House, and every Monday night, Jeff and his Mom would enjoy their weekly “mother and son date night”, making sure to watch it together. He also looked out for his mother’s well being and made sure she was always safe, especially when his dad was away from home.

Many things that stood out about Jeff was his warm and compassionate heart. He loved helping others and held a special place within his heart for kids with special needs. As a camp counselor volunteering his time at Camp Sunshine, Jeff had a way with the campers that was remarkable for such a young man. Working with those at the camp drew Jeff in, and they truly inspired him. He loved camp every year where the smiles were contagious and where he could share his quiet faith simply by being the loving individual that he was. Although he volunteered there to give his time and talents, Jeff received so much more in return, and was a better person for it. His gentle spirit was also found in the love he held for his dog Copper, who was always by his side.

Easy going and fun loving, Jeff could crack anybody up with his quirky smile. He enjoyed hunting when he had the opportunity, and also had a love for his vehicles. Another one of his greatest joys was when he received a 1992 Chevy Camaro for his 16th birthday. When he graduated from high school, Jeff was ecstatic when he received a truck from his parents. His favorite treasures included his truck as well as his five axis bridge crane mill that he felt blessed to have. Jeff had a great personality and his natural way with people was instrumental in building the family business and the relationships Christensen Fiberglass formed with their clients. He was an attentive and dedicated part of the business and when given a problem to solve or figure out, he would not rest until he came up with an answer. Whether it was seeing a product through to exact specifications, or running one of the largest CNC mills in the country, Jeff did his best to make sure the next crew in the shop had everything they needed before he left at the end of his shift.

Kind and caring, remarkable and loving, Jeff was a wonderful son and the best friend a brother could ever have. A blessing in the lives of many, Jeff’s quirky smile will be forever etched in the hearts of those he loved and touched during his brief time with us. Throughout his life, he made an impact and a difference in the lives of many that will be long remembered. He will be truly missed by those he leaves behind.

Jeffrey Allen Christensen, age 21, of Holland, died Monday, December 14, 2009 at home. Surviving are his parents, Bill and Shelly (Lutke) Christensen of Holland; his brother, Chad, at home; grandparents, Marisa and Robert Christensen of Port St. Lucie, Florida and Georgia Bennett of Grand Haven; aunts and uncles, Robert Christensen and James Judd, both of Jensen Beach, Florida, Richard and Laura Christensen of St. Leonard, Maryland, and Phillip and Ranee Matlock, of Scottsville, Kentucky; his dog, Copper, and many cousins. Preceding him in death was his grandfather, Christopher Bennett.

Funeral services for Jeff are scheduled for Monday, December 21, 2009, 11:00 AM at Calvary Reformed Church with the Rev. Blaine Newhouse officiating. Burial will be in Pilgrim Home Cemetery. Visitation with Jeff’s family will take place on Sunday from 1-4 and 7-9 PM at the Mulder Chapel-Dysktra Life Story Funeral Homes, 188 W. 32nd Street, Holland. Memorial contributions may be made to Camp Sunshine. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com to leave a favorite memory or photo of Jeff or to sign his online guest book.