Laverne Ann (Lance) Christianson

Laverne Ann (Lance) Christianson, born June 3, 1934, died January 5, 2018.

An activist throughout her lifetime, Verne enhanced her communities through countless initiatives of civic engagement, the creative arts and her church. She, with Bob, raised three children, Steve, Jill and Linda, and enjoyed the accomplishments of her four grandchildren, Stacy, Hanna, Shelly and Stefani.

Verne was married to Bob Christianson in her home hometown of LaJunta, Colorado in 1955, after which she and Bob moved to Des Moines, Iowa. Subsequent work promotions for Bob, Verne and the growing family included moves to Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Connecticut and Minnesota. She always contributed to their church life; she was often in the choir and devoted her energy to committees of the church.

She was 48 when she and Bob retired early to California. Verne's leadership and green thumb were evident with her presidency of the San Clemente and Fallbrook Garden clubs. She was an active member and an office holder in the P.E.O. sorority in Fallbrook, then helped establish a new chapter in Murrieta. She loved playing golf, card games with Bob and friends, plus quilters' and newcomers' groups, as well.

As a volunteer and board member at Live Oak Park in Fallbrook, as she had earlier at Dodge Nature Center in Minnesota, Verne shared her love of nature with school groups and community members.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Colony Clubhouse in Murrieta on Friday, March 23 at 10:30 a.m. Attendees are invited to bring a single stem colorful bloom to the gathering.

Gifts of Remembrance can be given to:

Live Oak Park of San Diego County, Fallbrook, (760) 728-2303

United Methodist Church of Murrieta, Music Program, http://www.murrietaumc.org

United Methodist Church of Fallbrook, Music Program, http://fallbrookumc.org