Josephine A Christenson

Josephine A. “JoAnn” Christenson, 97, passed away on August 7, 2026, at Evergreen Retirement Community in Oshkosh, WI. She was born in Oshkosh, Wisconsin on June 28, 1929, to parents, Abner and Josephine (Unmuth) Barndt.
She is survived by her children, Kathy (George) Basler, Karin Early and Craig Christenson; grandchildren, Ashley Basler and Aaron Basler.
Preceding her are her husband, Donald Christenson; son-in-law, David Early; sisters, Jean Baker and Betty Brown; brothers, Raymond Barndt & Robert Barndt.
JoAnn was raised & spent most of her life in the small community of Winnebago, WI. She worked at the Winnebago Mental Health Institute & the Winnebago Post Office where she eventually served in the role of Postmaster for 10 years.
It was in Winnebago where JoAnn met the love of her life, Donald Christenson. JoAnn & Don were loving & inseparable partners through 59 years of marriage until Don’s passing in 2009. JoAnn was a loving mother to 3 children, making family the center of her life. She loved to travel and spend time with family. Sunday gatherings were special to her and she also very much enjoyed gardening, cooking and canning.
JoAnn also was active as a member of the small community of Winnebago that was her lifelong home & built lasting memories sharing time with her neighbors & extended family. JoAnn & Don’s life gained additional purpose with the arrival of their grandchildren, Aaron & Ashley who meant the absolute world to them.
A member of the Lutheran faith, JoAnn practiced the principles of loving others through her whole life, at every opportunity. Her remaining family mourns her passing but also takes comfort in knowing she is at peace & reunited with Donald. We look forward to seeing both of them soon, in an eternity free from pain & suffering.
The family would like to thank the staff of Evergreen Retirement Community for providing JoAnn with love & care throughout her time as a resident & Moments Hospice for the extra comfort in her final hours.
Per her wishes no formal services will be held and she will be at rest with her husband at Lake View Memorial Park. To honor JoAnn, please recall a happy memory of her & consider making a donation in her name to the Oshkosh Area Humane Society.