Ronald L. Christensen

Ronald L. Christensen, 76, of Winterset, Iowa, passed away at his home on November 9, 2026.

Ron was born on January 22, 1950, in Winterset, Iowa, to Carl Vernon and Lucille Marie (Dick) Christensen. He was a survivor of open-heart surgery, having undergone the procedure in Iowa City around his eighth birthday. At the time, he was the first Iowa survivor of that type of surgery, having been given a 50/50 chance of survival.

He grew up with four brothers, Vernon, William, Clair and Carl, and two sisters, Cheryl and Linda. Ron was proud of his days as a pitcher for Winterset Little League and later graduated from Lincoln High School in Des Moines.

In 1968, Ron married Jeanie Peterson, and together they had two children, Royale Christensen Charles (Chris) and Ronald Lyle Christensen Jr. (Amanda). Family was always an important part of Ron's life, and he especially treasured time spent with his children and grandchildren.

Throughout his career, Ron lived in several states while working in management for Home Depot. In 1999, he returned to the Winterset area to be closer to family. He later worked as General Manager at Woodsmith Store, where he enjoyed the personal atmosphere and friendships he developed with his coworkers.

Ron was a jack-of-all-trades who enjoyed working outdoors, carpentry and raising horses. He had a special love for animals, and the many critters that became part of his family held a special place in his heart. Known for his warmth and understated wit, Ron touched the lives of many and formed lasting friendships throughout the years.

Ron is survived by his wife, Jeanie; his children, Royale Christensen Charles (Chris) and Ronald Lyle Christensen Jr. (Amanda); and his 11 grandchildren, Patience, Ashlyn, Shane, Melody, Joshua, Abigail, Seth, Noah, Tabitha, Liam and Conor. He is also survived by his brothers, Vernon and Clair; sisters, Cheryl and Linda; and many loving in-laws, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Lucille Christensen, and his brothers, William and Carl.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Ron will be deeply missed by his loving family, lifelong friends and the many people whose lives he touched with his kind heart and quiet sense of humor.