Dana Christenson

Dana Jean (Kelly) Christenson, the daughter of Donald and Edith (Hove) Kelly was born on April 28, 1955.  She died July 26, 2018 at her home, surrounded by loved ones, from a rare form of cancer.

Dana graduated from Jefferson High School in 1973 and attended the College of St Benedict and Alexandria Technical College.  She met David Christenson at the age of 15 and he was the only guy for her for the rest of her life.  She and Dave were married on September 6, 1975 and they spent their working years in Spring Valley, MN.  Dana was employed by Mayo Clinic for 39 years, holding a variety of positions in the business and financial departments, many at a supervisory level.  When she retired in 2014, they moved back to Alexandria and lived on Lake Darling, a place Dana truly loved.

Dana was warm and caring and had an amazing ability to establish long term friendships.  She particularly enjoyed spending time with friends and family and she loved animals.  Those fortunate enough to know her became part of her extended family, including numerous dog friends.  Dana had a lifelong love of reading.  She was thoughtful and insightful regarding world affairs and politics and was able to be diplomatic when expressing her opinions.  After retirement, Dana and Dave had a passion for traveling and would set out for a few days or a few weeks, exploring new locations and experiencing the unique local cuisine.

Dana was pre-deceased by her father, Don, her father and mother-in-law, Dean and Marvel Christenson, and six beloved dogs.  She is survived by Dave, her husband of 43 years, mother Edith Kelly of Alexandria, sister, Denise Kelly (Michael Suglia) of Carson City, NV and brother, Timothy Kelly (Ayako of Okinawa, Japan.  Five nephews survive her, several in-laws, and numerous friends of various generations who she lovingly considered part of her family.  Dana will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Visitation will held on Friday, August 10th from 4:00 – 7:00 PM at the Anderson Funeral Home and one hour prior to the service at the church.  Memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 11, 2018, 2:00 PM Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Alexandria.

In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to EHE, Hospice of Douglas County and the Lakes Area Humane Society.  Arrangements are with the Anderson Funeral Home www.andersonfuneral.net