Frank Christensen, 74

Frank George Christensen, 74, loving husband and father, passed away Jan. 23, 2024, at his home in Bonners Ferry, Idaho.

Frank was born to Frederick and Dorothy Christensen in San Diego, Calif. He had one sibling, Kathy Jean. 

Upon graduation from high school, Frank enlisted in the U.S. Navy and completed two tours in Vietnam as a corpsman. After his honorable discharge from military service, he followed in his father's footsteps and joined the San Diego Police Department in 1973.

During his 27-year tenure with SDPD, Frank’s accomplishments included field training officer, firearms instructor, and Eastern Special Enforcement C-Squad. When promoted to detective, he was assigned to Eastern Division Investigations, the Domestic Violence Unit — Family Justice Center, and the Homicide Unit.

Most importantly, Frank met his “blushing bride,” Zola Ruth (nee Montgomery), while teaching academy recruits at the police pistol range in 1979. They were blessed with two beautiful children, Jennifer and Zachary.

Frank took his role as father and protector of his family very seriously. He and Zola raised them in a rural area with farm animals, gardens, and chores, which was quite an endeavor as a young couple. This enrichment produced the dedicated and responsible adults they have become today. His pride was evident. He carried their photographs close to his heart, within the bulletproof vest he wore on duty.

Frank had interests in the Civil War, Viking history, freshwater fishing, and driving his tractor. He pursued the art of reloading ammunition, gunpowder, and modern weapon casings.

Frank’s character was fearless, reliable, and headstrong. He was selfless in his actions to his family, friends, and the communities in which he served. With Frank, “What you see is what you get.” Nothing was hidden. You saw the real individual.

Frank was predeceased by his wife by 16 months. He is survived by Jennifer (Jeff) Whitmyer, Zachary (Caiti), Christensen, and his amazing grandchildren, Maximus, Benjamin, Samuel Christensen, Laura and Jeremiah Whitmyer, and Jameson, son to Angela Christensen of California, followed by his great-granddaughters, Rylee, Emma, Kinsley, and Lainey Whitmyer. He is also survived by his sister, Kathy Jean Christensen.

A celebration of Frank’s life will be held at the Eagles in Bonners Ferry. A specific date will be later this spring.