James Edward Christiansen

On Saturday, November 23, 2024, James Edward Christiansen, a man of profound intellect and kindness, passed away at the age of 76 in San Diego, California. Surrounded by his loving family, James closed the chapter on his remarkable Earthly exploration, leaving behind a legacy of curiosity, devotion, and compassion. 

Born on June 5, 1948, in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, James was the third of seven siblings born to Jean-Paul and Violet (Fox) Christiansen. From an early age, he was fascinated by how things worked and was eager to understand the world around him. He brought a balanced wisdom to those around him with his grasp of complex theories about the universe and his ability to find joy and the divine in the smallest details of life. His intellect was tempered by a playful spirit and humility, grounded in the understanding that there was always more to learn and much that remained unknowable. His spirituality was central to his worldview and his deep scientific knowledge never diminished his sense of wonder or faith.

James graduated from Fox Lane High School in Bedford, New York, in 1966 before serving four years in the US Air Force. As an Electrical Specialist, he spliced cables to establish critical power and communication lines in active military zones. A proud veteran, he served in Japan and Vietnam during the Vietnam War, earning several commendations.

Following his military service and with relentless drive, James built a remarkable 55-year career as an Industrial Engineer. His ingenuity was evident in the patents his company filed for his work, most notably his contributions to the machinery behind the iconic McDonald’s McGriddle. Beyond engineering, he was a gifted craftsman with a passion for architecture, carpentry, and woodworking. Whether breaking ground in some untouched corner of South America, building homes from the ground up, or creating jigs for his fine furniture designs, James was a wonderful problem solver and was known to many as “Mac” (short for MacGyver). 

Wherever his international work took him, James always considered home with family his favorite place to be. Jim was the beloved husband of Linda (Johnson) Christiansen, his best friend and love for over 51 years. Much like his unwavering confidence in life, Jim’s love for Linda was certain from the start. Their whirlwind romance began with a date on Thanksgiving in 1972, followed by a Christmas Eve proposal and marriage just a few months later, on March 6, 1973, at The Little Church of the West in Las Vegas, Nevada. Las Vegas became a special place for them both, where they continued in the tradition of gathering with family each year. Together, they built a life and family that was the center of their universe, raising four children. Though often a private person, Jim was a guiding star to his family, bringing light, warmth, joy, and pure magic to their world. 

James is survived by his treasured wife Linda: their children, Ryan, Clay (Jamie), Katie (Dennis), and Anya (Dylan), cherished grandchildren, Ava, Gavin, Siera, Hayley, and Jake: and his brother Bill. 

He was preceded in death by his brother Tom Christiansen and his parents, Jean-Paul and Violet (Fox) Christiansen. 

James has embarked on the greatest journey, beyond time and space, discovering the mysteries of the cosmos he so loved. We take solace in knowing his spirit is free, exploring the boundless universe in a way only he could. The mysteries he sought are now known to him, and in that illumination, we find peace. Every wave of every particle that was James, every trace of his energy and love continues with us, shaping the universe in ways we will never fully comprehend, and that, as Jim often said, “is a beautiful thing”. 

A celebration of life will be held at 10:30 am on March 15th at Binion’s Steakhouse in Las Vegas, NV.