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Legacy Funeral Homes & Cremation Services - Kehl's Chapel

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Anchorage, Alaska

Cole Christianson Obituary

Cole Christianson passed away on Saturday, October 13, 2012 in Austin, Texas. He passed away unexpectedly while on vacation.

Cole was born on January 22, 1991 to Jim and Sandi Christianson. He graduated from Dimond High School with the class of 2009.

In the short 21 years of his life, Cole packed more activities, happiness, and enjoyment into it than most people do in a lifetime. Cole was truly an old soul. His presence would brighten anyone's day and his smile was irreplaceably contagious. Cole was the type of person who would help anyone, and he always put others first. Cole was such a determined and driven young man. He spent countless nights tearing apart jet skis, motorcycles, and any other toys he thought he could customize. Cole truly lived life to the fullest. There was nothing that could stop him from doing something he loved; Cole was the definition of a daredevil. Cole loved his family and friends more than anything else. He surrounded himself with amazing people who had the same values as he did. Cole spent much of his time with his family and friends at his cabin on Big Lake. Big Lake was his favorite place to be. He loved sitting by the campfire, wakeboarding, jet skiing, and anything that had to do with water. In the winter he enjoyed snow machining and skiing. Cole was always up for a challenge and did whatever he could to achieve his goals. Cole even taught himself how to do back flips on a wakeboard and a Jet Ski. Hockey was also a big part of Cole's life, from when he was little and could barely skate, all the way up until he had a few beers before he hit the ice.

Cole always knew how to have a good time, no matter what the situation was. He touched the lives of every person he came across and was well known to the people of Anchorage. Cole always had a smile on his face and a good attitude, which made people love him even more. He was taken from us too soon, but will forever be missed and remembered.

Cole was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Bob and Dorothy Schnell and his Aunt Debbie Christianson.

Cole leaves behind his parents Jim and Sandi; sister Shea, brother Jim Christianson, Jr; grandparents James (Gracie) Christianson and Marlene Christianson along with aunts and uncles, Cheri Bartholomew, Bob and Jolene Schnell; Jim and Janis Schnell; Scott and Renata Schnell; Rhonda Guderian; Tony Schnell; cousins; Bobby, Trevor, Carrie, Trenitie, John, Tyler, Chris, Justin, Chad, Heather, Kyle, Ben, Emily, Brenna, Chad B., Jordan, Jamie, and Taylor; extended cousins include Angie, Ryan, Farrah, Sabrina, Dagny, Christopher, Christine and many other family members, friends, along with his beloved companion, Wake.

Services in honor of Cole are scheduled on Saturday, October 20th at 2:00 P.M. at the First Baptist Church-Anchorage located at 1100 W. 10th Avenue. A Celebration of Life will take place following the service at 5:00 P.M. at the Bridge located at 221 West Ship Creek Avenue. Light appetizers will be served.

Donations can be made to the Cole Christianson Memorial Fund at Northrim Bank; account number 7102018921. Arrangements were entrusted to Kehl's Legacy Funeral Home.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Anchorage Daily News from Oct. 18 to Oct. 19, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Cole Christianson

Not sure what to say?





Streets

November 1, 2012

I love You Cole.....

Rhonda Street

November 1, 2012

Prayers go out to Jim, Sandy,Shea and jimbo and all of our friends who our Cole!

Tom and Judy Boyle

October 31, 2012

Jim and Sandi--When Cole gave us a hug this summer at the lake, we talked about how your sweet adorable little boy grew up to be a genuinely warm personable man. You can be so proud that you raised him to be someone who touched everyone's life with whom he came in contact. Our hearts are with you, Shea and Jimbo.

Kathie Andrews

October 29, 2012

Thoughts and prayers to Jim, Sandi, Shea and Jimbo during this very difficult time. Our hearts are broken, the loss of such an amazing you man taken way to soon. Cole lived life to the fullest, wasn't afraid to try anything and always had a smile on his face, he touched the lives of so many and was loved by everyone. You will be in our hearts forever, you may be gone but will never be forgotten and you'll be truly missed by all. We now have a guardian angel watching over us. The boys miss you like crazy, especially your brother Ben. We Love you Coleman.

Al Andrew

October 27, 2012

Jim and sandi. Could not believe it when I heard the news. My thoughts and prayers are with you and yours. If there's anything I can do please call Al

Mary Wilber

October 25, 2012

Sandi and Jim: I am so sorry for you loss and sincerely understand your pain. Time sooths the pain but the void is never filled. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time. Mary (Brake) Wilber

October 25, 2012

My prayers to your family. I know what it's like to lose a brother and friend, and can only imagine how everyone is feeling. Cole appeared to be extremely loved and lived an awesome but unfortunately short life. Cherish the memories, and he will live forever in all of those he graced with his amazing presence.

Lance & Debbie Johnson

October 23, 2012

Dear Jim & Sandi, so sorry for your loss! There are no words to ease your pain, but just know your in our hearts our thoughts and our prayers

October 23, 2012

Jim & Sandi We are so sorry for your loss,Cole was a great young man. Your friends Walt & Rebecca Delaney

Annie & Trevor Howell

October 22, 2012

We love you all like family. We are heart-broken along with you and will be missing Cole greatly! We are here for you, whenever, for whatever you need!! God Bless you all and we will keep you in our prayers!
Love, Annie, Trevor, Austyn & Rylie

Marie Smith

October 22, 2012

Dear Jim and Sandi,
My heart aches to learn of your loss. I have very fond memories of your family and will never forget how much Darren loved you both and your family. Please take care.

Karen and Steve Krassnoski

October 22, 2012

To the Christianson family, we are so sorry to hear of the death of your beloved son and grandson. Although we never met Cole, he sounds like a wonderful young man. We are your second cousins from Florida, Auntie Borgie's kids. May you find comfort in his outstanding life lived.

October 21, 2012

Jim and Sandy, we are sorry for the loss of your beautiful son,Cole.Take care and may God warm your heart.Sincerely Mel and Gloria Wilson

October 21, 2012

Jim and Sandy, our thoughts are with you in this difficult time.We are so sorry for the loss of your beautifully son.Sincerely Mel and Gloria Wilson

October 21, 2012

The Christianson Family,

So sorry to hear of this. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Jeff & Sandy Jensen

denise lutton

October 21, 2012

So sorry to hear of your loss, you are in our thoughts and prayers in this time of loss. The Luttons Alex, Doug, Denise and Jerry

Tim Stuart

October 21, 2012

Jim, Sandi, Jimbo, and Shea.
My deepest sympathy's. Jim, he grew up just like you. A man who had no enemies but countless friends. Sandi what Jim didnt give him, you did and you both need to be so proud to have been blessed with Cole. The son we all wished we could have. The service was nice and very moving. The outcry of friends and family shows what a fine young man he was and what a fine family you still have. I wish you the strength to heal from this tragedy. He will be sorely missed. Tim Stuart

October 21, 2012

My girlfriend Katrina Cain passed along the info on Cole. I am sad to hear about his passing--an old memory I have was Jim Sandi & a very loveable little boy named Cole coming to my sister Vicki's surprise birthday party (hosted by my parents Larry & Edith Heal) he made a lasting impression of smiles and joy to me. I've not seen you guys in years, but my heart skipped in sandness with a fond memory. Cindi Heal-Harsh--along with the Heal family

Jeff & Amanda Sizemore

October 20, 2012

Jimbo and Family,
We are thinking about you during this very difficult time. The loss of a loved one is unimaginable, especially when they are so young. You are in our thoughts and prayers!

Jay Gilleland

October 20, 2012

Shea, I was sorry to hear of Cole's passing. I remember you and he and your beautiful attitudes and smiles in PE classes. You are in my thoughts and prayers and forever in my heart.

October 20, 2012

Big Jim, So sorry to hear about your son,,having not known him, but knowing you and your Dad from along time ago I have to believe he was a wonderful person and will be long remembered by all.
Teri Russell- Eugene,Oregon

Rick Sutter

October 20, 2012

I remember Cole in his younger years playing hockey with our son, Joe. Even then Cole was energized and very spirited, caring teammate. Sorry for your loss. Our prayers go out to your Family in this most difficult time.
Rick & May

Connie & Roger Graff

October 19, 2012

Cole's infectious smile will always be remembered by all who knew him. His love for his family and friends will always be a part of the many happy memories we have of Cole. I am so thankful he came over (for hockey tickets) the night he flew out so I was able to see him. God Bless you at this very difficult time, but please call on us when ever you need a friend. God Bless Cole's memory and may he rest in peace. "We love you Coleman!"

October 19, 2012

My Sandi,
I remember meeting Cole at your mom and dads 60th wedding annivarsary, here in Arizona. His welcoming smile and genuine hello is my memory of him. With tears and complete sadness, my friend, I am so sorry for your loss of your son. Prayers and Love to you all.
Sally and The Anderson Family

Neil & Sarah Gotschall

October 19, 2012

Dear Jim,Sandi, Shea and Jimbo,
We are a fortunate family to have known you all while our son was growing up. Cole will always be a part of the fabric of our family. In the time since the boys graduated, we often reminisced about Cole's joyous smile and boundless energy-Dark winter car rides brightened by his conversation, Bon fires in the back yard with hobo dinners and s'mores and the friendship our son cherished with Cole. In his passing, he continues to bind his friends and family in love and friendship. We grieve his passing deeply and keep you all in our prayers.

Jared Shary

October 19, 2012

Cole, you were such a fun person to be around. It truly is an honor to have had the opportunity to grow up with you. I always thought your house was the most fun. From playing countless games of crazy house, to sledding down your hill (which I swear was more of a mountain when I was young), to merging families for bunco and drinks, I can't remember a dull moment around you. In recent years I've come to be in awe of your courage. You really are the gnarliest person I know. I mean flipping jet skis… who does that?! I always thought of you as the invincible kid, and it sucks that you're gone, but if anyone could cram a lifetime into 21 years it would have to be you. Though you may be gone, you are far from forgotten and in your “wake” (see what I did there?) you have left countless friends and family who strive to be half as friendly and genuine as you. It truly blows my mind how your passing has brought the entire city of Anchorage together. You're the best. Love ya bud, rest easy.

October 19, 2012

We will always struggle to know why; but I am convinced, wherever Cole is at he has already made good friends. His smile, warmth and words will be with us always. I wish I could have seen more of him in the last year. With katie being in school the kids don't come around as much - I miss that. I will always miss Cole's friendliness and ability to just talk with comfort - even to us old folks!!! Damn, I'm going to miss that. You are a special family. I can only imagine how much you hurt. I wish you didn't have too. I wish none of the kids had to hurt like they are right now either. Life is tough, life is real. Thinking of you and remembering Cole with smiles and laughter. Warmly, Missy and Katie Anderson

October 19, 2012

Sandi, Jim, Shea, & Jimbo,
I can't even express how my heart goes out to all of you. Cory, Taylor and I have you in a very special place in our thoughts and our prayers. Love and huge hugs to you, from the 3 of us.
Michelle Deeter, Cory and Taylor Reed

October 19, 2012

Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Sincerely, The Nibert Family

October 19, 2012

Jim, Sandi and Family,
Our thoughts are with you each and everyday. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Pam and Jeff Breakfield

October 19, 2012

Sandi My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family to help you find piece in the very early departure of Cole from your lives as you know it today. In reading about Cole it seems that he loved his life and his family most. Celebrate his life as best you can during the difficult time. Know that he has started a new chapter in his life, one full of glory and grace. May God give you the strength to move forward in your life as Cole would want you too. Sandra D

October 19, 2012

Big Jim, None of us can begin to understand what you and your family are going through right now. All any of us can do is let you know that we are there, and we care. I am truly sorry for your loss, my deepest condolences to you and yours.
Steve Landers and family

Susan Burritt

October 19, 2012

I was so saddened by the news of the loss of your son, Cole. I am heartbroken for you all. Please know that you are in our prayers during this most sorrowful time in your lives. We are here for you, if you should need anything.

Diane Andrews

October 19, 2012

Our hearts are breaking. Please know we pray for all of you everyday, and wish you peace through this extremely difficult time. We are so glad we got to know Cole. He was an awesome person. You should all be very proud!

Julie and Jim Kley

October 19, 2012

Jim, Sandi, family and friends -so very saddened to learn of Cole's passing. He and our son William had " play dates" as toddlers before we moved to California. After reading here what a wonderful young man he had become, it feels like a blessing to have shared that time.

Jan Shary

October 19, 2012

Sandi, Jimmy, Shea and Jimbo, I pray that the pain is relieved by the wonderful legacy Cole leaves for us all. He truly was one of the kindest most respectful young men I have ever known. His zest for life and happiness rubs off on all of us. Sandi and Jimmy - you get credit for the person Cole became. The love your family had for each other overflowed to everyone. I loved that when we were all together, huge party and more intimate setting, Cole never hesitated to give a hug or even just walk up and put his arm around any of us. Hold onto his memory - your love for each other continues.

Another Angel to watch over you.

October 19, 2012

Our thoughts are with you at this sad time of your lives. He will be missed by all.
Pat and Garry Street Oliver, British Columbia

Jon DeVore

October 19, 2012

I recall Cole when he was a small skater with my sons many years ago. He was a great sprit and a joy to be around. My prayers and thoughts are with his family.

October 19, 2012

I am so sorry to hear of your loss-Kris Green-shibe

Janica

October 18, 2012

Being the mother of two children, I can't imagine your grief. The stories I hear about Cole are wonderful. He had a beautiful smile. I wish I would have know him. I am so sorry.

Sig & Gayl Jokiel

October 18, 2012

Our thoughts are with you.

Dave Doucet

October 18, 2012

Jim, Sandi, and family,
I had the opportunity to coach Cole in hockey many years ago...he was such a great kid, hockey player, and friend.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you all.

October 18, 2012

Cole will be greatly missed. God Bless you and your family.
The David Brown Family

Peace & Love, Valerie Johnson

October 18, 2012

I feel as though I am blessed to have have known your son's big personality and fantastic smile. How much Cole is beloved from family and friends demonstrates the mark of wonderful parents. Every bit of my heart goes out to you during this incredibly difficult time. Words are definitely far from enough, but I am truly sorry for your loss and pain.

Julie Andrew

October 18, 2012

You sound like and astounding young man, us cousins in Washington wish we had the chance to meet. Our love and prayers to all who did know you, our hearts go out to you...

Mike & Roxanne McAdams

October 18, 2012

Jim,Sandi,Shea and James - So sorry about your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Kevin & Janet Goard

October 18, 2012

Our sympathy to the friends and family. Cole was an amazingly talented jetskier, always a joy to watch him ride. May Gods love soothe your aching hearts.

October 18, 2012

Sandi, Jim and family:
As Tyler Schnell's in-laws and your neighbor around the corner of Long Island, Big Lake--we want to extend our most heartfelt sadness for the loss of your son. Words seem so empty, but please know that others care deeply for you and the pain you are enduring.

Sincerely, Al and Celeste Bolea, #39 Long Island, Big Lake, Alaska

Katrina, Brian, Zac and Kory Cain

October 18, 2012

Sandi, Jim, Shea, Jimbo and family. Big Lake will NEVER be the same for any of us. Cole was the guy everyone looked up to and respected and idolized. He was Kory's hero and our friend. His spirit will truly live on in all of us and I feel blessed to have know him! Our hearts are heavy for your loss.

Kurt Haider

October 18, 2012

Jim,Sandi and family-
The Haider family is keeping you in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. We first got to know Cole and your family in the mite and squirt years when he and Robb played together and he was "Coley the goalie". You could tell then that Cole had a lot of life in him, and he certainly packed a lot of life in his short time here. An awesome kid from an awesome family. God bless you all.

Val Cooper-Brown

October 18, 2012

Our Prayers and thoughts are with you Sandi, Jim, Jimbo, Shea, family and friends! May you find comfort in the love of all your family and friends during this very difficult time.
Valarie Cooper-Brown

Cheryl Tescher

October 18, 2012

Sandi and family, I pray the love of God enfolds you during your journey of grief for the loss of your beautiful son Cole. My heart goes out to you all. God Bless.

Lisa Larmi

October 18, 2012

The world has lost some of its light with Cole's passing. He touched the lives of many, and will be deeply missed by all.

My thoughts and prayers go out to Cole's family and friends as they adjust to the loss of Cole's presence in their earthly life.

October 18, 2012

Cole, it is amazing how many lives you have touched! We as well as many, have loved your contagious smile. You brought happiness to those around you and will be forever missed. May your family find comfort in the days ahead and may you rest in eternal peace.
Love,
The VenHuizen family
Todd, Anna and Brandon

Matt and Emily Evans

October 18, 2012

Christianson Family-
Our thoughts and Prayers are with you.

Christine Saxton

October 18, 2012

Jimbo and family, so sorry for your loss.

Gil Campoamor

October 18, 2012

My deapest sympathies go out to your family. I've known Cole ever since he played hockey and was a good friend and team mate to my son Chad. He will be sorely missed. I'll always remember his smile.

Genie Haskins

October 18, 2012

We will all miss Cole's sweet smile and beautiful personality. We will never understand this or understand. Prayers for you his family.
Genie, McKenzie & Garrett Haskins

Aftan Smith

October 18, 2012

Christianson Family. Our hearts go out to you with thoughts and prayers. I will never forget his heart felt hugs. You showered him with love from the very begining and he spread that to all who had the chance to know him. Words can't express what a beautiful person he was. He will be forever with us. We love you....Aftan and the Smith Family.

Caryl, Kort Sjostrom

October 18, 2012

“Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow,
May looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow.”

Unknown~

Thinking of you all. Cole was extremely loved by all that knew him.

Kim Trujillo

October 18, 2012

Cole you touched so many lives. My Benny idolized you!!! I will miss your pretense in my home. Let the angels take care you now. With great sadness our hearts are heavy.

Brad, Cheryl, Chris and Alison Evans

October 18, 2012

Jim, Sandi, Shea and family - We were shocked and deeply saddended to hear of Cole's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you along with our sincere condolences.

Debbie Rounds

October 18, 2012

This is wonderful to read about his vibrant life and so true!
We pray for you guys and are so sorry.
Logan thought so highly of Cole, the person he was and all his
athleticism. I can't think os a kid in Anchorage who was so loved by all.
VERY FONDLY, from the Rounds family

Karen Joy

October 18, 2012

Jim Sandi Shea and Jimbo-you continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. Cole was so friendly and real. I am so blessed to have known him. His legacy will live on as we all live are lives as he did with smiles and genuine caring. He is missed but never forgotten.

Jane Anderson, Dunn

October 18, 2012

Dearest Sandi, Jim, Shea and family,
Our deepest sympathies are with you during this very difficult time. We can't even imagine the pain you are experiencing with losing someone as special as Cole. May God grant you strength, hope and courage. God Bless you all. Much love, Jane and the Anderson Family

Jacob, Heather, Craig & Nickie Nelson

October 18, 2012

We were/are on vacation when we heard the very sad news about Cole. He truly was a wonderful young man. We know Jacob enjoyed playing hockey with Cole and was lucky enough to become one of his many friends on and off the ice. We will miss seeing his handsome, smiling face around town. Our sincerest condolances are with the entire Christianson/Schnell families.

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