Walter Ivan Christensen Jr.

A man with five names

Walter Ivan Christensen Jr. was born in Greenfield Nov. 28, 1927. He was preceded in death by his parents Lela Elizabeth and Walter I. Christensen Sr.

To his family and friends in Iowa, he was known as “Junior.” He lived in Greenfield until he joined the U.S. Navy at age 17.

After leaving the Navy, he finished his college degree and taught school for a while. He then decided to join the U. S. Air Force. While serving in the Air Force, he was instrumental in developing the missile program and served during three wars. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for heroic and meritorious achievement and service. He retired from the Air Force after 20 years, achieving the rank of Lt. Colonel. His co-workers called him “Colonel.”

While he was in the USAF, he earned his Ph.D in Meteorology from the University of Wisconsin. The students and parents at the Lakeside School gave him the name of “Doc.” This name followed him to Dixie Academy. He cared deeply for all the students whose lives he touched. He loved to challenge his students both academically and personally to be the best.

To his wife, he was simply Chris. My sister and I called him Dad. His grandchildren and his great granddaughters called him "Papaw."

It does not matter which name you used to call him, he would always answer you with respect and love. He only had one hobby that I know of which was fishing and he took that very seriously.

He cared deeply about his family and making sure we were always taken care of.

Walter is survived by his children Joni (Joe) McKnight and Cydney Daniell; his grandchildren Chris (Melissa) McKnight, Dana (Flynt) Barksdale and Darby Daniell; his nephews Steve Jones, Doug (Mary Jo) Jones and his great granddaughters.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 60 years Jimmie Lou Bearrentine, his parents and his sister Lois Jones.

Honorary pallbearers: Doug Jones, Steve Jones, Joe McKnight, Dean Brown, John Pitt Williams, Marshall Williams Jr. and all previous students of Mr. Christensen.

Private family graveside services will be held Saturday, July 11, 2020, at the Clayton City Cemetery in Clayton, Alabama.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Clayton City Cemetery or to the Clayton United Methodist Church.

Glover Funeral Home of Clayton was entrusted with the arrangements. (334) 775-3403. Please sign the guestbook online at www.gloverfuneral.com