Vernon L. Christensen, 94, of Minden, Nebraska, passed away on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Bethany Home in Minden. Visitation with family present will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Craig Funeral Home in Minden. Celebration of Life services will be held at 2:00 p.m. at Bethany Lutheran Church in Minden on Friday, April 17, 2026, with Rev. Donald Hunzeker and PMA Julie Schmidt officiating. The service will be streamed to the church’s YouTube page. Private family burial with military honors will be held at the Minden Cemetery prior to services. Memorials in Vernon’s honor are kindly suggested to Bethany Lutheran Church or Bethany Home. Arrangements are under the care of Craig Funeral Home in Minden.

Vernon Leroy Christenen was born on September 28, 1931, to Ernest J. & Myrtle (Johannesen) Christensen in Minden, Nebraska. He was baptized and confirmed at Bethany Lutheran Church in Minden. As a child, he lived with his family in the Minden - Holstein area. In 1945, the family returned to Minden where Vernon completed his education, graduating from Minden High School in 1950. During his senior year, he earned a spot on the 1950 Class B All-State basketball team.

Vernon entered the United States Air Force in April 1951 and faithfully served his country until his honorable discharge in December 1952.

On February 7, 1954, Vernon was united in marriage to Lois Ann Nelson. The couple made their home in Minden where Vernon farmed for many years until his retirement in 1994. To this union, three children were born: Sheila, Julie & Terry.

Vernon was a devoted and active member of Bethany Lutheran Church where he served on the Church Council, including being a past president of the council. He also served as a board member and past president of Bethany Home Board. Vernon was also a former member and president of the Kearney County Fair Board and a charter member of the Minden Area Jaycees. He was a lifelong member of American Legion Post 94 in Minden and generously gave his time delivering meals while volunteering with Meals on Wheels.

Vernon had a deep love for farming and cherished time spent with his family. He enjoyed participating in and also watching sports. In his later years, he could often be found with a game on television, especially basketball, though he enjoyed watching all sports.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Dale; his wife of 63 years, Lois; son-in law Clyde Albers; great-grandson Kolton Albers; and other extended family members.

Vernon is survived by his children, Sheila (Randall) Stubbs of Lincoln; Julie (Dean) Zoerb of Minden; and Terry (Brenda) Christensen of Minden. He is also survived by six grandsons: Ryan Minert, Brock Minert, Nicholas Albers, Jacob Albers, Tanner Gibb and Collin Martin; and seven great-grandchildren: Olivia Minert, Molly Minert, Kami Albers, Kylie Albers, Kiezer Albers, Mason Martin and Reid Martin.

Tributes and memories can be shared with the family at www.craigfunerals.com.