Howard P. Christensen, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, passed away at Sanford Hospital on Monday, March 24, 2025, at the age of 79.

Howard Paul Christensen was born on April 23, 1945, to Norman and Eleanor (Johnson) Christensen in Tyler, Minnesota. He was raised in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and graduated from Washington High School in 1963.

After graduation, Howard enlisted in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged in June 1968. On June 11, 1968, he married Stephenie Wattier in Carson City, Nevada. The couple lived in Portland, Oregon, before moving back to Sioux Falls in 1976. They were blessed with three children: Mistie, Mandie, and Dustie.

Howard worked in construction for Henry Carlson Construction. He retired in 2019 after more than 40 years with the company.

In his younger days, Howard enjoyed bowling every Friday night in a league in Sioux Falls. His favorite pastimes included hunting deer and pheasant, as well as fishing. He cherished the fishing trips he took with his brother and family. Howard also loved to travel, particularly to Las Vegas and Laughlin, Nevada.

A passionate football fan, Howard was an avid supporter of the Green Bay Packers. Above all, he treasured spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his daughters, Mistie (Mike) Wehrkamp, Mandie (Gary) Tschetter, and Dustie (fiancé Carlos) Christensen, all of Sioux Falls; eight grandchildren, Jordan Tschetter, Taylor (Jessica) Tschetter, Kristie (fiancé Kyle Cadwell) Wehrkamp, Tayia Roman, Joey (Payton) Wehrkamp, Kailey Christensen, JyMarion Loyd, and Salina Santiago; and nine great-grandchildren, Jacob, Kaylynn, Frankie, Minah-Rae, Bae, Godsiah, Boden, Theo, and Bellamy Santiago. Howard is also survived by his sisters, Shirley, Debbie, Sheryl (John), and Sherry; his brother, Gary; his sister-in-law, Sue; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Eleanor Christensen; his brother, Harold; his sister, Diane; and his beloved wife of 49 years, Stephenie Christensen.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, March 27, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., with military honors beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Miller Westside Chapel, located at 6200 W. 41st Street, Sioux Falls, SD.