Mary Louise Christensen passed away Friday, May 20, 2011 in her home
surrounded by her family.
Mary was born on June 7, 1921 at St. Anthony’s Hospital in Michigan City,
Indiana, the daughter of Margaret (Maroney) and James P. Earley who both
preceded her in death.
In 1939, Mary graduated from Liberty Center High School, where she
participated in Band, Cheerleading and served as class president.
On September 28, 1946, she married Norman E. Christensen who preceded her in
death in 2009.
Mary was employed for 13 years as an administrative assistant to the
Secretary of the Chesterton Moose Lodge. As a devoted, lifelong member of
Saint Patrick’s Church, Mary served on the Parish Council as well as on
various committees and projects. She was a member of the traditional choir
for 52 years.
In addition to parish activities, Mary served in leadership positions within
several community organizations including The Women of the Moose (Senior
Regent), Royal Neighbors of America (Oracle), Hoosier Boys Town Fundraiser
Chairman, V.F.W. Ladies Auxiliary, Cub Scouts Den Mother and Girl Scouts
Troop Leader.
Mary was a nominee for the “Bicentennial Queen of Chesterton” in 1976. She
was also honored by the Knights of Columbus for her tireless work for the
Porter County Right to Life Organization.
A devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Mary
lovingly cared for her parents and elderly relatives while raising a large
family of her own.
She is survived by eight children Thomas J. Christensen, Margaret A.
(Robert) Hanaway of Valparaiso, Craig M. Christensen, Lawrence “Pudge”
(Brenda) Christensen of Chesterton, Michael J. (Sharon) Christensen of
Crete, Ill., Paul G. (Sunny) Christensen of Chesterton, Jane M. (Joseph )
Conrad of Indianapolis, Annette M. (Roman) Dybas of Chesterton; twenty-one
grandchildren and twenty-seven great grandchildren.
She is also survived by sisters Patricia Jarka of Aurora, Colorado, and
Kathleen Nicholson of Michigan City, Indiana. Mary was preceded in death by
five brothers and two sisters.
Mary was always ready and willing to serve her family, church and community
with great love, faith and generosity. She touched many lives and anyone who
has had the pleasure of her acquaintance has been truly blessed.
The family will receive friends Tuesday, May 24, 2011 from 4-8 p.m. at
White-Love Funeral Home, 525 South 2nd Street, Chesterton, Ind. A Rosary
service will be at 7:00 p.m. Tuesday.
The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 25, 2011 at 11 a.m. at
St. Patrick Catholic Church, 638 N. Calumet Ave., Chesterton with Father
Jerry Schweitzer and Deacon Jim Horton officiating.
The family asks memorials be given to St. Patrick Church Building fund or
VNA Horton Hospice. For additional information, contact White-Love Funeral
Home at 219-926-1309.
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