Rosemary Christiansen, 95

Rosemary Christiansen, a devoted mother, wife and grandmother, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2025 at the age of 95 in Kalispell.

 Rosemary was a loving and compassionate woman, known for her warm smile and unwavering support.  She was a dedicated homemaker, church secretary and overall superwoman.

Rosemary was born March 16, 1930 in Sidney, Montana, the daughter of  John and Florence Conroy.  They were a homesteading family, working hard as farmers, ranchers and sheep herders.  She was adept on horseback and never hesitated to kill a rattler with a rock!  In 1948, at a country barn dance, she caught the eye of a handsome World War II veteran, Thomas Christiansen.  They began a 70 year romance.  They married Dec. 30, 1950.  In 1955, they pulled their mobile home behind their pickup and headed west to Whitefish.  Tom had heard of the Anaconda Aluminum Plant in Columbia Falls, and Tom thought he would seek employment there.  They began to make a home for themselves in Aluminum City.

In 1961, they were blessed with their first daughter, Donna, and their second daughter, Joyce in 1965.  Life was full and busy.  When not working, the family enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting and travel.  We have story upon story and memory upon memory of family escapades and adventures.

Rosemary was the heart of her family, always prioritizing the needs of her loved ones.  She found joy in spreading the love of Jesus to anyone she encountered.  She was an avid baker, gardener, berry picker and master homemaker.  Rosemary could pack a picnic to rival any chef and we ate her masterpieces during winter picnics, berry picking adventures, hunting trips and fishing days.  Camping was one of her favorite activities and she truly made each adventure a home away from home. She loved spending time with her grandchildren (who could do no wrong!).  She shared many hours playing games, baking cookies, playing dress-up and spoiling each of them to no end.

Rosemary was a devoted member to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Columbia Falls since 1955.  She taught Sunday School, served numerous meals, was the unofficial welcoming committee to any new faces at church and loved on anyone she encountered. She dutifully served as church secretary for 16 years and her contributions are too numerous to   mention.

Rosemary was preceded in death by her parents, John and Florence Conroy, husband, Thomas E. Christiansen, and  brother, Donald Conroy.  She is survived by her daughters, Donna (Royal) Norris, Joyce (John) Morris, grandchildren Zachary (Shanet) Norris, Stephanie (Mike) Catlett, and Christian Lomax; and great-grandchild, Sophie Catlett.

If desired, donations may be made in Rosemary’s memory to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, PO Box 2770, Columbia Falls, MT 59912 or a charity of your choice.  Services will be held Wednesday, May 7, 2025 at 11 a.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church.  Reception will follow.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”