Gary Lee Christensen's Obituary
With profound sadness and abiding faith, the family of Gary Lee Christensen announces his peaceful passing on September 10, 2025, in Mont Belvieu, TX, at the age of 71. Born on November 20, 1953, in Baytown, TX, Gary was the beloved son of G.W. and Shirley "Joyce" Christensen of Highlands, TX. He was a proud graduate of Ross S. Sterling High School, class of 1972, where he played football and cherished weekends spent hunting, skiing, and boating on the San Jacinto River with his family.
Gary’s life was marked by service, dedication, and love. After graduating from West Point Military Academy in 1976, he served five honorable years in the U.S. Army, embodying the values of courage and commitment. He later built a distinguished career in the oil and gas production industry, spanning over four decades. Gary was a husband to Carolyn Christensen for 48 years, a loving father to his daughter Michelle Painter and her husband Joshua, and to his son Eric Christensen and his wife Miriam. He was a proud grandfather to Lucas and Cory Painter, who affectionately called him G-Daddy. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Bradley "Pec" Christensen.
A man of faith, Gary was an active member of Second Baytown, where he joyfully served as an usher on Sunday mornings and was baptized on May 1, 2022. He found great joy in watching his grandsons play sports and traveling with his family, always cherishing the moments spent together.
Gary’s life will be honored with a graveside service at 2:30 pm on Friday, September 19, 2025, at San Jacinto Memorial Park & Funeral Home, located at 14659 East Freeway, Houston, TX 77015. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Foundation or Second Baytown, two organizations that held a special place in Gary’s heart.
Gary’s legacy of love, service, and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. “Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23
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