Claude James Christiansen's Obituary
Mr. Claude James Christiansen, age 86, formerly of Rothbury, passed away in Muskegon, Michigan on Sunday, January 11, 2026. He was born in Muskegon on March 21, 1939 to Harry and Margaret (Raffai) Christiansen. Claude was a veteran of the United States Army. He was employed as a plumber for the Boilermakers Local 154, now the UA 174 West Michigan Pipefitter Union, for over 30 years prior to his retirement in 1997. He was a member of the Rothbury Community Church where he was active with the Senior Life Group for over 20 years and volunteered in the food pantry. Claude was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting and fishing. On September 21, 2002, Claude married the former Sandra Lee (Gorham) Oosterhart in Muskegon and she survives him along with her children, Mike (Kareen) Oosterhart, Sheryl (Kenneth) Start, Dale (Jamie) Oosterhart, Steve Oosterhart, and Debra Oosterhart; 11 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Nancy Christiansen and Barb Christiansen; two nephews, Matt (Denise) Christiansen and Andrew Christiansen; one great-nephew and two great-nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Ralph, Elden, and Gary Christiansen; step-son, Terry Oosterhart; and niece, Angela Christiansen. A FUNERAL SERVICE will be held 11:00 AM Friday, January 16, 2026 at Bethel Baptist Church, 1066 E. Byron Road, Norton Shores, MI 49441 with VISITATION one hour prior to his funeral. Burial will be in Sullivan Township Cemetery. MEMORIALS in memory of Claude may be directed to Rothbury Community Church Food Pantry. Arrangements by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. You may sign his online guestbook at https://www.sytsemafh.com
What’s your fondest memory of Claude?
What’s a lesson you learned from Claude?
Share a story where Claude's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Claude you’ll never forget.
How did Claude make you smile?
