Derek Christensen

Derek Dale Christensen, age 40, of Bettendorf, IA, passed away unexpectedly in an industrial accident while working as a Diesel Technician at Republic Services on December 11th, 2017. Derek was born to Roger and Kathy (Flatness) Christensen on March 19, 1977 in Albert Lea, MN.  Derek lived most of his life in Alden, MN.  He was baptized and confirmed at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Alden, MN.  He was a 1995 graduate of Alden-Conger High School. He was united in marriage to Kerri L. De Zwarte on August 3, 2014 in Rock Island, IL. Derek was an incredibly selfless, hardworking man; everything he worked for went first to his family before he ever gave a thought to himself.  Derek had a heart of gold, an amazing sense of humor and was very quick-witted and more intelligent than he gave himself credit for. Derek always tried to see the best in whatever situation he was faced with.  Derek was a “fixer” in nature, hence his love for mechanics.  He had the most contagious smile that you couldn’t help but return when he flashed it.  Derek was an active member of the Alden Volunteer Fire Department and often missed it when he moved to Bettendorf.  Derek was taken from us way too early doing what he loved and will be greatly missed, but never forgotten. Derek is survived by his loving wife, Kerri, Bettendorf, IA; his children, Austin, Bettendorf, IA, Sierrah and Blayde, Fitchburg, WI;  His parents, Roger & Kathy Christensen, Alden, MN; His father-in-law Darrell (Rhonda) De Zwarte; His mother-in-law Deb (Rick) Kingery; His brothers, Chad (Brandy) Christensen, Red Wing, MN, and Shane (Kristine) Christensen, Alden, MN; His brother-in-law Darin De Zwarte; His sisters-in-law Kelli and Kasie and their husbands; Grandparents Barbara Christensen and Arlene Flatness, both of Albert Lea, MN; Many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his cousins, Tricia Nelson and Stephen Bratrud; An uncle, Harlan Christensen and grandparents Harry Christensen, Kenneth Flatness and Patricia Flatness.

Visitation will be held Sunday December 17th from 2-4pm at the Runge Mortuary and Crematorium in Davenport, IA as well as  Monday, December 18th from 4-6:30pm with a brief service following at Bonnerup Funeral Home in Albert Lea, MN.

Monetary donations for Derek’s children can be made to Christensen Fund at First Farmer’s & Merchants Bank, Goodhue, MN.