James V. “Skeez” Christensen passed away at home in Vulcan August 19, 2008 at the age of 81 years.
James, who was nicknamed Skeez after a comic strip character, was born on October 21, 1926 at Airdrie, Alberta to Bill and Effie Christensen. He attended school in Champion and received his Grade 12 education in High River. Skeez went on to attend Mount Royal College and SAIT in 1944/1945. His first job was with Massey Harris as a combine engineer working with experimental combines in Canada and the U.S.A. He obtained his pilot’s license in 1946 along with his brother Leslie. In 1953 Skeez and his father were awarded the contract for Champion’s first water system. He worked at a modular home business in the Crowsnest Pass, sold real estate in Calgary, worked in heavy equipment sales, was a car salesman and the by-law enforcement officer for the Town of Vulcan. Skeez also farmed in the Carmangay and Vulcan areas over the years.
Skeez enjoyed baseball, badminton, golf and curling. He was a member of the Calgary Militia as well as the Carmangay Lion’s Club.
Survived by his loving wife of twenty-nine years Gladys and her family, loving father of four daughters Patricia (John) Ablett of Calgary, Norma (Max) Christie of Gallahad, Susan (Dave) Peters of Barrhead, Brenda (Robert) Clark of Tofield, a son Bill (Linda) of Esquimalt, BC, eleven grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, sister Joyce Hagg of Calgary and numerous nieces and nephews.
Skeez was predeceased by his infant daughter Lorraine, brother Leslie, brother-in-law Larry, niece Nancy and his parents.
Memorial service Friday, August 22, 2008 at 2:30 p.m. at the Royal Canadian Legion Hall at Vulcan with Sue MacDonald D.M. officiating.
Inurement to follow at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, tributes in Skeez’s memory can be made to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #21, Box 175, Vulcan T0L 2B0.
Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home. Telephone 1-403-485-2633. E-mail condolences to vulcanfuneralhome@hotmail.com.