Alan Christensen

Alan B. Christensen, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, educator, and friend, passed away on July 29th, 2026. After being diagnosed in 2025 with a glioblastoma, Alan died 16 months later in his home surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 10th, 1954, in Dillon, MT, Alan was the son of Arthur and Margaret Christensen. His journey through life was marked by a profound love for family, a dedication to education, and an unyielding passion for environmental sustainability. Alan's life was a testament to the values he held dear—compassion, knowledge, and community. After graduating from Beaverhead County High School in 1972, Alan pursued his love for the earth with a bachelor’s degree in horticulture from Montana State University. He started his own company, Quality Landscape, and for 25 years he nurtured the environment and cultivated beauty through his work. His passion for chemical-free gardening led him to start ABC Organic Gardens. He later returned to academia, and in 2002 earned his master’s degree in education from MSU-Billings, before embarking on a new chapter as an educator. Alan’s teaching journey began at Crow Agency, where he spent five years inspiring young minds before joining his alma mater, MSU Billings, in the education department. For the next two decades, he taught reading and social studies, impacting countless students with his wisdom, dedication, and enthusiasm. He retired in 2022 with emeritus status from the university, a testament to his lasting contributions to education. To Alan, every student became one of “his kids”. He believed that education was built on relationships, living that philosophy throughout his career and to the very end. In May of this year, Alan received the Lifetime Achievement Award in education from MSU Billings, honoring his years of service and the countless lives he touched as a teacher, mentor, and advocate for students. Alan's commitment to community extended beyond the classroom. He was a proud member of the Sigma Nu fraternity throughout college, the Montana Nursery and Landscape Association and the board of Young Families. He actively participated in the Yellowstone Valley Food Hub and was a part of the Beekeeper's Association. His eloquence and charisma shone through in his involvement with Toastmasters, and his selflessness was recognized when he was named Volunteer of the Year in 2025 for RiverStone Health Hospice. A man of many interests, Alan found joy in a variety of lifelong passions. His love of music began in high school and continued into college where he joined the singing group New Genesis and met his wife, Cheryl. He was an engaging storyteller, a devoted reader, and an inspirational teacher who never lost his curiosity about the world. His favorite role was that of a grandpa and he delighted in sharing with his eleven grandchildren the love of raising chickens, keeping bees, and gardening. Alan was known for his quick wit, infectious sense of humor, and remarkable command of language, both English and Spanish. Whether offering a perfectly timed joke or gently correcting someone's grammar, he brought warmth, laughter, and wisdom to every conversation. Alan's life was enriched by his cherished family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Art and Marge, his brother Arthur Dale, who passed shortly after birth and his nephew Justin Rehard. He is survived by his devoted wife of 50 years, Cheryl, and their loving children: Tony (Lindsey) Christensen and children Liam and Riker; Michael (Caitlin) Christensen and children Eden, Ezekiel, and Easton; Anna (Tim) Warburton and children Jacob, Ace, Jaxon, and Avary; and Catey (Andy) Hoffer and children Arthur and Leo. Alan is also survived by his siblings Marian (Don) Olsen, Calvin (Jodi) Christensen, and Donna (Pat) Robert, sister-in-law Terri (Dan) Rehard and brother-in-law Mike (Maria) Pilati, who all committed to helping Alan and Cheryl throughout the duration of his illness. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and close friends who will never forget Uncle Alan. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Emergency, Neurosurgery, Oncology, and Palliative Care teams at Billings Clinic for the exceptional care and compassion they provided to Alan. They also wish to thank Cornerstone Caregiving and RiverStone Health Hospice for their unwavering support and outstanding care, which brought comfort, dignity, and peace to Alan during his final days. A memorial service will take place on Saturday, September 19th with location and time to be announced. In honor of Alan's life and his commitment to nurturing growth and supporting others, donations can be made in his name to Young Families Early Head Start, Yellowstone Valley Food Hub or RiverStone Health Hospice. Alan will be deeply missed, but his memory will continue to inspire and guide those who were fortunate enough to know him.