James R. Christianson

James R. Christianson, of Wasilla, Alaska, a construction kingpin, worldwide traveler and family figure, passed away Monday, August 8, 2016, at a Wisconsin hospital surrounded by his family. He was 69.

Born October 8, 1946, Jim was a 1964 graduate of Winneconne High School in Wisconsin. He attended University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and graduated from the Chicago Technical College with a bachelor’s degree in Architectural Engineering.

Through the years, Jim worked many jobs in the engineering and construction industries in Alaska until 1988 when he took over sole ownership of Collins Construction in Wasilla. In 2011, Jim and his son, Randy, started TC Construction, where he taught him the tools of the trade to running a successful business. Between the two companies, Jim provided leadership to 50-plus commercial construction projects all over the state.

Jim was a huge Green Bay Packers and Seattle Mariners fan. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing and traveling. Jim spanned the globe, including cruises in the Caribbean Islands, Mediterranean Sea, and Panama Canal, along with road trips to the Grand Canyon and Niagara Falls. But most of all, Jim loved spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Jim is survived by three sons, Bill (Holly) Christianson, Randy (Lyndzy) Christianson, Jeremy (Jillian) Jurgensen; his grandchildren, Blake, Holli and Lyla, Janelle and Jeremiah; a sister, Mary Lou (Don) Brown; a brother, Tom (Darlene) Christianson; and other relatives and friends.

Preceding Jim in death were his parents, Clifford and Alice Christianson, and Folger Johnson.

A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, August 28, 2016 at 3 p.m. at the Palmer Elks Lodge #1842. The address is 2600 N. Barrys Resort Dr., Wasilla. Those who knew Jim are welcome to attend.

Donations in Jim’s name may be made to the American Cancer Society.