Jimmy, 53, Sturgis, SD, passed away Monday, August 14, 2006, after a short battle with cancer at Ft. Meade, SD and then Phoenix, AZ.

Memorial services will be Friday, August 25, 2006, at 1:30 p.m. at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel with Pastor Keith Nelson officiating. Inurnment will follow at the Black Hills National Cemetery with the South Dakota Army National Guard Honor Guard Team providing military honors.

Jimmy Edward Christensen was born October 16, 1952, at Sioux Falls, SD, to Edward and Delores (Haas) Christensen, and spent most of his early years in the Yankton area. He joined the South Dakota National Guard in 1971. He met Marge Lapour in Yankton, and after a whirlwind courtship, they were married and joined the Army together. After Jimmy spent three years in the Army, he joined the Guard and served in Wagner, SD, and later in the South Dakota Air National Guard. He retired with over 21 years of military service.

Jimmy attended college at USD/Springfield and graduated with Associate degrees in Automotive and Diesel Mechanics. After graduation, he joined the Yankton Post Office. In 1993, he transferred to the Rapid City Post Office, and then to Sturgis in 1994.

He enjoyed volunteering his time to many different organizations, including the Disabled American Veterans and the Boy Scouts of America, but his passion was for youth soccer. He enjoyed watching and helping his two sons develop their skills, and continued on coaching and refereeing long after his sons had moved on. He was inducted into the South Dakota Soccer Hall of Fame in 1995.

Jimmy will be remembered for his patience, understanding, long hair, and love of Rock and Roll.

Survivors include his wife of 33 years,two sons and their wives,one grandson who always made his Popa smile; mother and stepfather, brother and wife, two sisters and their husbands,many nephews, nieces, cousins, aunts, and uncles.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his father Edward Christensen, his aunt Erma Spomer, and grandmothers and grandfathers.

A memorial has been established. Cards may by sent to: Marge Christensen, 777 West Chandler BLVD, Apt 1211, Chandler, AZ 85225.