Kenneth Eugene Christeson

ROCHESTER -Kenneth Eugene Christeson, 83, of Rochester died Tuesday, March 5, 2013 at home. Ken was born February 26, 1930 in Eau Claire, WI to George and Martina (Barstad) Christeson.Their family lived in several areas of town over the years so he got to know many people.He graduated from Eau Claire High School in 1947.After graduating from the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire, he taught math and science 2 years in Stanley, WI and 1 year in Bloomington, MN.In 1956 he joined IBM in Madison, WI as a Custom Engineer.He later transferred to IBM Rochester, MN where he worked as a Circuit Analyzer and Industrial Engineer prior to his retirement in 1991.He enjoyed his work and felt he made a good choice in where to work, Ken married Eleanor Seim on July 21, 1962 in Grand Meadow, MN.They recently celebrated their 50th anniversary.They raised two children, Martin and Louise.Ken enjoyed many adventures, sports, and family.Ken joined the Navy Reserves in 1948 and was active for 8 years.During his high school and college years, Kenny performed gymnastic tumbling routines and worked as a lifeguard.Throughout his life he enjoyed fishing/hunting trips, reading and political discussion, gardening, and family reunions with siblings and extended family. He is survived by his wife, Eleanor; two children, Martin (Diana) Christeson of Tucson, AZ., Louise (Brian) Hendricks of Fairmont, MN; five grandchildren. Evan, Kenny, Jada Ann, & Kaitlynn-Louise Christeson and Aaron Hendricks; two sisters, Arlene Petrick and Violet Freid of Eau Claire, WI; sister-in-law, Jeanne Christeson of Alexandria, AL; brother-in-law, George Seim of Rochester; and many nieces and nephews. Hewas preceded indeath by his parents; two sisters, Francis Gilbertson and Thelma Erickson; two brothers, George and Randall Christeson. Memorials may be given to the church or the donor's choice. A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 9, 2013 at Zumbro Lutheran Church 624 3rd Avenue SW Rochester, MN 55902 with the Reverend Vern Christopherson officiating.Visitation will be from 5-7 pm on Friday, March 8 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW Rochester, MN 55901 and one hour prior to the funeral service at the church on Saturday.Internment will be in Oakwood East Cemetery Rochester, MN.