Dennis Christensen Obituary

It is with much sadness and heavy hearts we announce the passing of Dennis Allen Christensen, known to most as "Chris" or "Chief Chris". A beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. A true patriot, man of honor, integrity and provider for his family.
Dennis was born in Ceylon, Minnesota on November 6, 1941 to Allen Christensen and Alice Christensen (Schmidt). He attended Ceylon High School where he excelled at basketball, baseball and football. Probably why he was a lifelong Minnesota Vikings and Twins fan. After graduating in 1959, he joined the United States Air Force on March 3, 1960 becoming an aircraft mechanic where he had the privilege of working on and coordinating daily maintenance for a multitude of military aircraft. His first assignment was Yokota AFB, Japan from 1960 to 1963. After Yokota, he was assigned to Maxwell AFB in Montgomery Alabama from 1963 to 1965. While assigned at Maxwell AFB, he met his future wife Judith A Carroll, who was also serving active duty. They were married on March 8, 1964. Their first son Jeffery Allen was born at Maxwell. Dennis was called to serve in Vietnam from 1965 to 1966 as a member of Project Skoshi Tiger. Upon completion of his tour, he was assigned to Craig AFB in Selma, Alabama from 1966 to 1977, including a one-year tour in Thailand from 1970 to 1971. Lots of things happened at Craig AFB. While stationed at Craig AFB, their second son James William was born. Dennis's love for golf also was born around this time. It became a lifelong obsession and passion for him. In March of 1977 Dennis was presented with the Outstanding Senior NCO of the Year Award by Alabama Governor George W. Wallace and other dignitaries. Very proud moment and rightfully so. Reese AFB Lubbock, Texas was the next assignment from 1977 to 1980. Dennis put on his Chief Master Sargent stripe during this assignment. After Reese AFB was Ramstein AFB West Germany from 1980 to 1983. Leaving Ramstein AFB marks his arrival to Cannon AFB Clovis, New Mexico where he served the remainder of his military active-duty career. It was a very long journey spanning a total of 33 years and 29 days. He retired on March 31, 1993. WOW! Following active-duty retirement, he continued serving the military by taking on a second career starting April 3, 1993 with the 27th Service Squadron as a recreational assistant at the Whispering Winds Golf Course at Cannon AFB. He helped maintain the course and equipment, did club repairs and whatever else needed to be done. In July of 1999, he became manager of this golf course, earning his second retirement through Civil Service. Dennis retired from the golf course on August 26, 2025. He continued doing club repairs and playing golf until he couldn't, but mostly enjoyed gardening and maintaining the yard once retired. His wish would be peace and love to all. Dennis loved life but loved his family more than anything in the world.
Dennis Allen Christensen is survived by wife Judith A Christensen, Sons Jeffery (Gloria) and James (Vera). Grandchildren and great-grandchildren Ariel Christensen (Nick & GG Owen), Desirea Patterson (Gary & GG Carissa), Jamie Christensen (Tanner), Chance Shirley (Stephanie & GG Olivia), Jori Blair (Cullen & GG Bennett & Hunter). Sisters Gail Bremer (Wayne) and Jan Brooks. There are numerous cousins, nephews and nieces. All dearly loved. Preceding Dennis in death are his father and mother Allen Christensen and Alice Christensen (Schmidt).
Memorial services will be held Wednesday, March 4, 2026, 2:00 pm at The Chapel 1500 Thornton St. Clovis, NM.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Muffley Funeral Home, www.muffleyfuneralhome.com, (575)762-4435