Gerald "Buddy" LeRoy Christenson, age 90, of McHenry, IL, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 28, 2026 in McHenry, IL.

Gerald was born on March 27, 1936 in Ettrick, WI to Kilmer and Anna (Larson) Christenson. He was raised on the family farm and attended school in Blair, WI. Gerald proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1957. He moved to Cary, Illinois in the early 1960's for work. This is where he met his future bride. He married Nancy Jean Conrad on December 22, 1962 in Prospect Heights, Illinois.

Gerald was a devoted husband and father. He worked most of his adult years at National Northwood in Cary, IL, until they closed. Later, he worked for Intermatic in Spring Grove, IL, where he ultimately retired. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, trap shooting, camping, playing euchre, listening to music, and spending time with his family, and friends.

Gerald is survived by his son, Donald (Missy) Christenson of Wonder Lake, IL.

In addition to his parents, Gerald was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy and a brother, Donald K. Christenson.

A special thank you to the fantastic staff at White Oaks at McHenry Memory Care (McHenry, IL), Grand Avenue Assisted Living (Blair, WI), and JourneyCare Home Health & Hospice (Barrington, IL) for their compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Gerald (Buddy) Christenson's name to the Alzheimer's Association .

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. in the Jack Funeral Home with burial in the Rest Haven Cemetery both in Blair, WI.  Patti Truax will officiate. Friends may call one hour prior to the service.