RACINE – Surrounded by the love of his family, Einer Christensen passed away on Thursday, December 2, 2010 at the age of 83. He was born on June 25, 1927, son of the late Otto and Gunlaug (nee: Kockholm) Christensen. Einer was raised in Union Grove, and in 1944 graduated from Union Grove High School with honors. He then entered the United Sates Coast Guard, serving in the North Atlantic during World War II. On September 10, 1949 he was married to Nancy Gerkin in the Universalist Church in Racine.

Mr. Christensen graduated from the University of Wisconsin law school in 1952. His successful career as an attorney includes 20 years at the firm of Helm, Myers, Gillett, & Christensen; and 20 years at Constantine, Christensen, and Krohn. Just a few of his career highlights include membership in the American College of Trial Lawyers; election to the American Board of Trial Advocates; listed in 'Best Lawyers in America'; and membership in the Wisconsin and Racine County Bar Associations. Mr. Christensen served the Racine community in many ways during his lifetime. He chaired many projects to help The March of Dimes, The YMCA, and the Heart Fund. In 1956 he was recognized as the Jr. Chamber of Commerce's 'Man of the Year' and received the Distinguished Service Award. Mr. Christensen was a charter member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Racine; served 10 years on the Racine Police and Fire Commission; and the Racine County Housing Authority. Mr. Christensen was a member of Plymouth Congregational Church.

He is survived by his wife of over 61 years, Nancy; their sons and daughters-in-law, Gary and Barb Christensen of Kenosha, Daniel and Judy Christensen of Oconomowoc, Steven and Jera Christensen of Racine, Kevin and Rebecca Christensen of Nashotah, Scott and Lora Christensen of Oak Creek; grandchildren, Peter, Michael (Lindsay), Andrea, Lauren, Danielle, Matthew, Sara, and Samuel Christensen; great- grandson, Cole Einer Christensen; sister-in- law, Jacqueline (Ed) Rawson of Freeport, Ill.; as well as other relatives and many friends.

Complete services will be held in the funeral home on Thursday, December 9, 2010. Visitation will be from 4 until 6:45 p.m., and Rev. Glenn Lawson will preside over the memorial service beginning at 7 p.m. Cemetery services on Friday will be private. Donations to Plymouth Congregational Church in Einer's memory have been suggested