Gail W. Christiansen was born in Omaha, Nebraska, on March 5, 1924, to Walter and Ariel Christiansen. He was raised and attended school in Denison, Iowa. A U.S. Navy veteran of World War II, he served with the 133rd Construction Battalion Seabees in the South Pacific from 1943 to 1946 and received three battle stars.

Gail was married to Arletta (Derner) on March 5, 1946, at Zion Lutheran Church in Manning, Iowa. They moved to Spokane, where he received instruction in the Christian faith and was baptized and confirmed at St. John's Lutheran Church on May 1, 1947.

Their marriage was blessed with a son, David, and a daughter, Renee. Gail worked as a truck driver and warehouseman for McKesson and Robin pharmaceutical company for 34 years. He was a member of VFW Post #51 and of Warehousemen Union #690.

Gail and Arletta were active supporters of Spokane Lutheran School and Camp Lutherhaven. They joined Holy Cross Lutheran Church in 1989, where they have been faithful in worship and volunteer service. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with family and friends four years ago.

Gail entered eternal rest with his Lord Jesus on March 11 at Holy Family Hospital.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Arletta; son and daughter-in-law, David and Kathy Christiansen of Spokane, Washington; daughter and son-in-law, Renee and Larry Cebula of Carthage, Missouri; and five grandchildren.

"Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life." (Rev. 2:10)