Sorn "Sam" Christensen (Gilje) (1860-1931)

CHRISTENSEN, GILJE, REINERTSON, OLSON, KASKE, ROUTH

Posted By: Dorian Myhre (email)
Date: 6/30/2024 at 16:18:25

From Story City Herald January 15, 1931 (page 4)

OBITUARY

Sorn Christensen (Gilje), whose parents were Aarsten and Haldri Christensen, was born in Bremnes, parish of Finaas, Norway, Sept. 29th, 1860, and died at his home in Story City, Iowa, Jan. 6th, 1931, some over 70 years old.

Mr. Christensen was born, baptized, confirmed and married in the same parish, Finaas. In 1885 he was united in marriage to Madel C. Reinertson, Pastor Thormodsether officiating. To this union five children were born: the oldest, a girl, died in infancy. Those who survive him are: Henry Christensen, Evanston, Ill.; Mrs. Anna Olson, Winnebago, Minn.; Mrs. Helen Kaske, Evanston, Ill., and Mrs. Ella Routh, Randall, Iowa.

Besides his wife and these children he also leaves to mourn his departure, 13 grand children and two sisters: Mrs. Guri Nelson, Evanston, Ill., and Miss Christina Gilje, Chicago. These were all present at his funeral.

Mr. Christensen came to America in 1889. His first stop was Randall, Iowa. Since then he had been engaged in farming, first in Humboldt county, Iowa, and then for some 15 years three miles west of Randall. The last 15 years he spent in Story City.

Mr. Christensen was a thrifty farmer and became a well-to-do man in a short time.

The immediate cause of his death was heart failure.

Saturday, Jan. 10, he was buried from the Bethel church, where a very large audience paid him their last respects. Rev. G. O. Paulsrud officiated. The remains were taken to Randall for burial.

In honor of their husband and father, the family gave $100 to missions.