Gary Lamar Christensen

Gary Lamar Christensen, 84, passed peacefully into the presence of his Lord on June 8, 2026, at Menorah Medical Center. He was born on June 21, 1941, in Mayfield, Utah, and spent most of his life in Johnson County, Kansas, where he built a legacy of faith, family, service, and hard work.

Gary proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. Following his military service, he met the love of his life, Diane, in 1964 in Denver. Utilizing his GI Bill, both Diane and Gary attended Utah State. Both graduated from Utah State, beginning a partnership that would span decades and be marked by unwavering devotion to one another and to their family.

A talented and respected civil engineer, Gary spent the majority of his professional career with Black & Veatch, contributing to projects that helped shape communities throughout the World (Florida, Turkey, Australia, and Belize). Alongside Diane, he also pursued entrepreneurship through the ownership and operation of Hallmark stores, reflecting their shared work ethic and commitment to serving others.

More important to Gary than any professional accomplishment was his faith in Jesus Christ. He was a devoted man of God whose life reflected humility, kindness, and steadfast conviction. During the latter part of his life, he and Diane faithfully attended Lenexa Baptist Church, where they were active members of a small group Bible study for 25+ years. Through these relationships, he found friendship, encouragement, and opportunities to share his faith.

Gary was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Diane Christensen, on February 15, 2023, as well as by his parents, one brother and one sister.

He is survived by his sister, Karen Chinn and three sons, Dave, Kevin and his wife Debbie, and Brian and his wife Christy Christensen; and by his six cherished grandchildren: Darby, Mason, Dawson, Kolbie, Charlie, and Will Christensen. He leaves behind a family who will forever be grateful for his example of integrity, faithfulness, and unconditional love.

Gary will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, faithful friend, proud veteran, and humble servant of God. His life was a testament to the values he held dear—faith, family, hard work, and kindness. Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in the promise of eternal life and the assurance that he has been reunited with Diane and welcomed home by his Savior.

Visitation and Memorial Service

A visitation will be held on Monday, June 15, 2026, at 9:30 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 10:30 a.m. at Lenexa Baptist Church, located at 15320 W. 87th Street, Lenexa, Kansas 66219.

A private family burial will follow at Johnson County Funeral Chapel & Memorial Gardens.

Pallbearers will be Gary's beloved grandchildren. It will be a special honor for them to serve in this role and pay tribute to a Grampy whose love, guidance, and example helped shape their lives.