Stephen E. Christensen

Stephen Ernest Christensen, loving and devoted husband, son, brother, father and grandfather passed away surrounded by his immediate family on September 11, 2014. Steve was born September 17, 1948 in Denver, the first son and second child of Victor Christensen (deceased) and Barbara Lowell (deceased). His first home was a ranch in Perry Park near Larkspur where his Dad worked as foreman. Steve's sister Vicki was older by eighteen months and his sister Paula was younger by eighteen months. Brother Ron was born a couple years later. The family lived on that ranch until Steve was five and forever basked in the loving memories of that time in Perry Park. Steve's family lived briefly in Englewood and then moved to a home on Christensen Lane in Littleton. Steve attended West Elementary, Centennial Elementary, Grant Jr. High and Littleton High School where he graduated in 1966. Growing up, the family's business was raising and racing thoroughbred race horses and Steve, alongside his best friend Paul Steffen, shared in the work and play which that involved. Steve attended Colorado State University and Arapahoe Community College before taking a job with Avis at Stapleton Airport and establishing a career in the car rental industry. Steve and Debbie met, sparks flew in Debbie's Austin Healy, they fell in love, and began a wonderful 41-year marriage in Denver on February 24, 1973. The newlyweds lived briefly in Grand Junction before moving back to Denver where they welcomed daughter Jill in 1976. The family then transferred for Steve to be city manager in Jackson, Mississippi. In 1978 they were transferred to Providence, Rhode Island where son Mark was born. The family moved back home to Littleton to stay in 1981. From an early age, Steve was drawn to outdoor interests and enjoyed fishing and hunting. He was known for his keen eyesight and as a ""good shot"". For many years Steve made an annual fishing pilgrimage to Canada with Debbie's father Cy and brothers Kurt and Scott. He made wonderful memories hunting deer and elk in Twin Oaks, Grand Mesa and the Flat Tops, alongside friends and especially with his brother-in-law, Jim Barton (who became one of his very best friends after he finally accepted him into the family). Together, Steve and Jim were captivated by an interest in Bonsai and pursued the hobby for many years, becoming quite accomplished and making lasting friendships in that community. During the past decade, Steve's interests turned to rocks and minerals. In particular, selecting raw stones which became beautiful when slabbed and polished. Steve crafted gorgeous jewelry pieces, had them placed in silver settings and gave them to all of his family. In later years, Steve was limited by several health issues, but he remained intellectually engaged and always learning. After retiring, in addition to Bonsai and rocks his many interests included science, history, geography, ancient aliens, UFC, cooking and meat (he made a mean green chili). He and his buddy Digger were loving companions. Another love of his life was the Oregon Coast where he and Debbie vacationed together many times. The love he held for his wife, children, grandsons, and family was unconditional and with his whole heart. Any moment shared with his grandsons, Quincy, Hayden and Clayton brought enormous joy and pride to his life. Steve is survived by wife Debbie; daughter Jill Christensen Long, son-in-law Jason Long and their son Quincy; son Mark Christensen and his sons Hayden and Clayton; sister Vicki, brother-in-law Jim Barton; sister Paula and brother-in-law Frank Cauthen; brother Ron Christensen and sister-in-law Patti. Steve is also survived by mother-in-law Doris Slavik, brothers-in-law Kurt and Scott Slavik, sister-in law Candy Torchia, and their families. Steve is also survived by numerous loving nieces, nephews and by his lifelong friend Paul Steffen. Memorial Service will be held on Friday, September 19, 2014, 10:30am, Horan & McConaty Family Chapel, 5303 E. County Line Rd., Centennial, CO 80122. In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested in honor of Stephen to Bear Canon Cemetery, P.O. Box 142, Sedalia, Colorado, 80249, or the charity of your choice.