Fred Nelson Christian, 69

Our friend, Fred Christian, 69, passed away in his home in Yuma, Arizona, on Nov. 28, 2023, among some of his many friends. 

He is survived by his brother, Brad; and his ex-wife, Jennifer.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Mark; but is survived by Mark’s children, Kathryn (Brian), Joseph, and Jack (Pamela); and Mark's grandchildren, Alexandra, Deacon, Calvin, Sydney, Lauren, and Reagan. 

He was born in California. He then moved with his parents to North Dakota. His family then moved to Minnesota, land of 10,000 lakes, and he would have loved to have dropped a fishing line in every one of them. 

He spent four years in the Navy then worked on the railroad in Minnesota, as a diesel mechanic. He obtained a nursing degree in Minnesota, and moved to Montana, where he worked at what was then Kalispell Regional Hospital. He met his future wife, Jennifer at the hospital, married, then divorced, and they remained friends until Fred’s death. 

He worked at Kalispell Regional Hospital first on the medical surgical floor, then as house supervisor. He had the great gift of making people laugh under stressful situations. He was well known for his witty one liners and silly political and sometimes risqué jokes. He was often the life of the party and a welcoming host. He made great long-lasting friendships wherever he went and valued those friendships until his death. He cultivated those friendships with everyone from hospital staff to administration. 

He was the type of friend who would help with whatever job needed to be done and had the skills and determination to do it. He was a great handyman and would use his skills to benefit others and volunteer his time generously. 

After retiring he bought a modest house in International Falls, and also bought a modest house in Yuma, Arizona. That way Fred could fish all summer in Rainy Lake, and spend all winter in sunny Yuma. His circle of friends grew to include people in those areas also, and he stayed in touch year round with his friends in the Flathead, International Falls, and Yuma. 

He passed away from a glioblastoma, as did his brother Mark, and he was well aware of his fate. He wanted to die at his home in Yuma, so his friends set up a hospital bed in his living room and he welcomed all into his house, at his bedside until his death. He maintained a witty sense of humor until he could speak no more. 

With great sadness we reflect on his death, but he lit up the lives of those who were lucky enough to meet him. 

Thank you Fred, peace be with you and we will love you always.  

A celebration of Fred's life will be held in Yuma, Arizona; International Falls, Minnesota; and in Columbia Falls, at Fred Head Lake and pond, that Fred built. Dates to be announced.