George G. Christian

George Gordon Christian, one of three children of Mabel Helena (Solberg) and George Clarence Christian, was born on a farm near Churchs Ferry, North Dakota on April 4, 1923. When George was seven, the family moved to Omaha, Nebraska where George completed his education.
On May 29, 1942, George enlisted in the United States Marines and during WW II was stationed in the Asiatic Pacific areas including the islands of New Zealand, New Hebrides, Solomon Island, and New Caledonia. He also saw duty on the Japanese Island of Vella VaVella. Corporal Christian was discharged on May 29, 1946 and returned to Omaha.
A talented artist, George soon became a window dresser and decorator for Omaha Department Stores. George and Shirley L. (Davis) were married on February 20, 1948. Their marriage was blessed with eight children, Karen, Dennis, Gary, Dale, Janet, Douglas, Craig, and Cathy. Recognition of his art talent lead to an offer to work for the Walt Disney Studios in California. George declined the Disney offer and with a partner founded the Omaha Coffee Company. He later sold his interest in the coffee business. Shirley and George divorced in 1972. George returned to the family farm near Churchs Ferry.
George and Helen Joan (Hamilton) Burchett Thomas were married on June 18, 1973 at Elk Point, South Dakota. George became a stepfather to Joan's children, Michael Burchett, Douglas Burchett, Patrick Thomas, Linda Thomas, and Lori Thomas.
One of George's most enjoyments was farming the land his ancestors had homesteaded. He was a talented artist and craftsman and in later years enjoyed being a historian.
George died from injuries received in a motor vehicle accident near his home on Friday, August 6, 2004. He had attained the age of 81 years, 4 months, and 2 days. George was preceded in death by his twin brother Lewis; his parents; and wife Joan on July 19, 1994.
George is survived by his children Karen Peters and husband Randy of Cottage Grove, WI, Dennis Christian, Gary Christian and his wife Cherri, Dale Christian, Janet Nichol, and Douglas Christian all of Omaha, Craig Christian and his wife Rene of Crescent, IA and Cathy Nichol and her husband Jim of Omaha; stepchildren Michael Burchett and wife Jane of Wymore, NE, Douglas Burchett and wife Diana of Malvern, IA, Patrick Thomas and wife Candy of Bismarck, ND, Linda Klebe and husband Craig of Richmond Hill, GA, and Lori Castle and husband Bryan of Cartersville, GA; sister Ardis Dworak of Lake Tahoe, NV; several grandchildren and great grandchildren.