Jon Charles Christensen

Jon Charles Christensen, 72, passed away peacefully June 21, 2016, in the comfort of his home in Monarch Beach, California with his loving wife by his side. He battled Parkinson’s disease for 13 years.

Jon was born December 11, 1943 in Center Township, Pocahontas County, Iowa, to Soren Christian and Bonna Bell (Beyer) Christensen. He met Fita in Sacramento and they married in Virginia City, Nevada on November 30, 1991.

He worked over 30 years in pharmaceuticals at Syntex and Hoffman-La Roche, as a lobbyist and Director of Western Government Affairs. He retired at age 55 to pursue his love of sailing and spending time with family. Jon spent several years teaching aboard the Pilgrim in Dana Point Harbor as the Captain of the Two Years Before the Mast at-sea history program. He was brought much joy teaching children maritime history. Jon loved traveling and that carried on throughout his retirement years. One of the many highlights of Jon’s retirement was being able to sail to Panama with his wife, Fita, on their own sailboat, “Adrianna”.

Jon is survived by his wife, Fita Christensen, children Tammy Comandatore (Mario), Shelley Christensen (Ron Karlsberg), Jamie McMillin, Jill Meitzler, Elena McMillin, sister Carol Hansen (Zip), and grandchildren Cameron Comandatore, Tiffany Comandatore, Chandler Davis, Ashley Comandatore, Jamie Patrick McMillin, and Dexter Charles Meitzler. He is also survived by cousins, nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his father Soren, mother Bonna, and brother Gary.

A private memorial service will be held Thursday, June 30, off of Newport Beach, where his wishes will be granted to have his ashes scattered at sea.

Arrangements under the direction of Pacific View Memorial Park and Mortuary FD1176, Corona Del Mar, CA.