Submitted by: Mary Jo Koran

SBT 6/14/2007

Louise V. Christianson

Jan. 15, 1908 - June 11, 2007

MISHAWAKA - Louise Christianson, 99, of Mishawaka, passed away Monday, June 11, 2007, in her home.

Louise was born in Iron Belt, WI, on January 15, 1908, to the late Bernardo and Mary (Kulp) Testolin. She graduated with a master's degree in nursing from Loyola University and taught nursing for 10 years. On February 26, 1937, she married Robert Christianson of Mishawaka, who preceded her in death on June 17, 1996.

They had five children, Louise Christianson of Nehalem, OR, John (Jan) of Mishawaka, Sr. Roberta Christianson, PHJC, of Germany, Sr. Jean Christianson, PHJC, of Mexico, and the late Robert Christianson. Also surviving are five grandchildren, Amy (Brian) Jacoby, Jean Christianson, Jack (Tammy) Christianson, Patrick (Jennifer) Christianson and Steve (Julie) Christianson; and 10 great-grandchildren, Anna and Sarah Jacoby, Nick Harder, Megan, William and Matthew Christianson, Max and Lily Christianson, and Brenner and Rylan Christianson. Louise was preceded in death by seven sisters, Ann, Ester, Kathryn, Ester, Mary, Clara and Tado; as well as by three brothers, Paddy, Louie and Bunny.

Louise was a member of St. Monica's parish where she was very active. Other than her family, she was most proud of the family business, Christianson Furniture, her charter membership and past presidency of the Theresians, and her 10-year stint as a reading instructor at St. Joseph's, Mishawaka, Grade School. A high point in Louise's life was when her beloved Chicago White Sox won the World Series in 2005. Her Catholic faith was extremely important to her, as well as her strong patriotism for the United States of America.