Donald Dean Christensen

Donald Dean Christensen was born on February 25, 1930, northeast of Redline, Iowa, to Clifton and Millie (Scott) Christensen. He was baptized in 1937 at Bethel Baptist Church in Harlan. Don attended country school through the eighth grade before continuing his education at Harlan High School, where he graduated with the Class of 1947. He was also a charter member of First Baptist Church in Harlan.

Following graduation, Don farmed alongside his father until November of 1951, when he was drafted into the United States Army. On May 16, 1952, Don was united in marriage to Jean Larsen at Bethel Baptist Church. Shortly after their marriage, Don was sent overseas, where he spent the next year and a half serving in Japan before returning home in November of 1953.

Don and Jean settled on the family farm, where they made their home for several years and welcomed their two children, Jeffrey and Jennifer. After leaving farming, Don held various jobs throughout his career, beginning with hauling canned milk to Avoca and eventually retiring as the sales manager for Wilson Seeds.

Don had an adventurous spirit and a passion for racing. He spent 23 years behind the wheel, racing micro midgets for 10 years and stock cars for another 13 years. After retiring from racing, Don and Jean purchased a Gold Wing motorcycle and trailer, which they enjoyed taking on vacations for several years. Together, they traveled through 26 states and ventured into Canada and Mexico, making many memories along the way.

Don and Jean also enjoyed spending their winters in Apache Junction, Arizona, where they returned for 20 years. During their time there, they developed many friendships and shared countless good times. Don especially enjoyed spending his days searching for and purchasing first-generation Ford Mustangs. Jean passed away on February 20, 2015, at the age of 80 and nearly 63 years of marriage.

In additiona to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his wife, Jean Christensen; son-in-law, Jerry Christensen; and two sisters: Bernadine Gaer and Jean Hemminger.

Don is survived by his children: Jeffrey (Kerri) Christensen of Schuyler, Nebraska and Jennifer Christensen of Blair, Nebraska; five grandchildren: Justin (Natalie) Christensen, Jesse Christensen, Jacob (Jamie) Christensen, Maggie (Jared) Fichtl and Joni (Matt) Clements; 17 great-grandchildren; and other relatives and many friends.

His funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at the First Baptist Church in Harlan. Burial will be held in the Harlan Cemetery.

Memorials may be directed to the First Baptist Church in Harlan in memory of Don.