Gertrude was born April 20, 1922, in Colome, SD, the daughter of Irwin L. Adams and Ethel L. (Griswold) Adams. Gertrude spent her childhood in Colome and graduated from Colome High School in May of 1940. After graduating from high school, she enrolled in the school of nursing at St. Joseph Hospital in Clinton, IA. She began her career as a registered nurse in December of 1944 by enlisting in the Naval Reserve Nurse Corps.

On November 23, 1950, Gertrude married William E. Christianson in Minneapolis, MN, and shortly after received orders to report for duty aboard the USNS SGT Charles E. Mower as a Junior Ship's Nurse, Military Department. She also served aboard the USNS General Hugh J. Gaffey during her naval career. Her military career allowed her to care for the wounded during WW II and the Korean War. Gertrude was honorably discharged from the Armed forces in June of 1955.

After the birth of her children, Gertrude accepted a nursing position at the Fort Meade Veterans Hospital near Sturgis. She retired in June of 1970.

Gertrude "Trudy" Mary Christianson, aged 94, passed away in the early morning hour Sunday, September 11, 2016, at Rapid City Regional Hospital.

She is survived by her five children, Ann (Marlon) Healey, Rapid City, SD, William (Jolie) Christianson, Hot Springs, SD, David Christianson, Rapid City, SD, Laura (Wes) Fleischhacker, Rapid City, SD, and Diane Christianson, Shakopee, MN. She also leaves behind nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Gertrude was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. William E. Christianson, and her grandson, Luke Christianson.

There will be a private graveside service for immediate family at the Bear Butte Cemetery in Sturgis, SD.

A memorial has been established to the Wounded Warrior Project.