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Gina Gerda CHRISTOFFERSEN
Gina Gerda CHRISTOFFERSEN
Obituary
Guest Book
Gina CHRISTOFFERSEN Obituary
October 5, 1917 - July 14, 2012
Acclaimed artist from Denmark is survived by her brother, Leo, her children, Ricki, Brian, Neesja and Monte, her nephews, Neil, Ralph and Keith, seven nieces, eight grandchildren and one great-grandson, Ty.
Mom's favorite poem from an unknown author from 1884:
"They have tamed me,
They have taught me,
To the white man's sway I bow,
Tired with the sloth of learning,
I shall seek my wigwam now."
The lovely Memorial was held in Vancouver on July 23, 2012.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
69 Entries
Lisa golledge
April 23, 2024
Hi, my first memory of seeing your mom's art work was when i was around 6 yrs old. My grandmother purchased a box of greeting cards while on vacation in oregon and she had them in her closet. I remember always going into her closet and pulling out the box of greeting cards and looking through them. I have always loved your mom's art work and i am now 50 yrs old still collecting her work. Her art work puts a smile on my face and takes me back to when i was a little girl looking through that box of greeting cards. Your mom was truly gifted and i am sorry for your loss. Thank you
Elizabeth Wade
February 14, 2024
My father in law was a Dr in Calgary Alberta. He was given 3 large pastels and 2 smaller ones by Gina. When he passed away we inherited them. We absolutely love them. I've just had them all re-matted and new frames put on them. They are so beautiful.
Trevor Kern
March 5, 2023
Hi:
I am about to inherit a very large, original painting by Gerda that I have loves since i was a kid. It is 8 ft. tall, 3 ft. wide, of a Native mother with her children on each side. I think it is quite rare and valuable. If the family or a museum is interested, I would be honored to return it.
Laura Willis
February 3, 2023
Thank you for sharing your wonderful art with the world your remembered
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Holly
June 24, 2022
I have one of her original paintings. I feel it needs to go home.
Lareina Donahue
April 14, 2022
My Mother was lucky enough to meet your Mother in the early 80’s and she asked her if she would paint her and thankfully your Mother said yes. It was the most beautiful painting I had ever seen. Unfortunately it was stolen from my sisters home many years ago and I would do anything to have it back. I’m not sure where to even start. My Mom passed away and whenever I see a painting of your Mothers I smile
Renise Rosenboom
May 25, 2021
I was having great difficulty finding out about your mother. I was fortunate to buy a framed piece of her printed artwork framed. It is a touching print of a smiling Native American young girl with feathers in dark hair and a lovely smile on her face.
Why is there no biography of her in Wikipedia? Were her prints sold in the National Parks?
I loved reading about your wonderful and apparently quirky mother in these memories. My own mother just passed away in 2020.
The print makes me smile. It was hard to locate information about your mom since everyone thinks the printed signing says Christoffersen. Thanks for keeping this site active!
Renise Rosenboom
Ashland Nebraska
Sandy Hollenberg
March 10, 2021
my youngest daughter was about 5 some 55 years ago when we bought our first Christopherson, upon seeing it she said ‘thats me when I was an Indian’
Heidi Craig
February 25, 2021
My Grandmother went to SAIT in Calgary Alberta with Gerda, she gave my grandmother “Little Owl eyes” souix as a gift. This picture hung in my Grandmother’s home until she passed at the age of 98 a few years ago. It now hangs in my home, I have just purchased another and am excited to add more in the future. [email protected]
Jay Stewart
September 30, 2019
Neesja,
So sorry to learn of Gina's passing. I worked at Juniper Lodge outside of Lacombe, Ab. Your mom of course used to stay with us for extended periods of time, and I remember your many visits as well. I still have the 1 piece that she gave me in about 1981. She was one hell-uva gal! She had more spirit than words can do justice. It was a pleasure to have known her.
January 11, 2019
My mother in law always spoke so fondly of your mother. She used to come and visit her in West Vancouver and my husband would sit on her knees. She left many fond memories and she also left quite a few pastels and a beautiful velvet painting of a beautiful native girl. It still adorn our wall in Calgary. She certainly was gifted and are proud of the many pieces we own. I could see by readings the many commentaries that she was loved by so many people. Hope her talents live on through you.
S. Lacey
October 5, 2018
I was researching Christoffersen as my mother lost some paperwork she had about her painting and the artist. Then I came across the guest book. I learned a lot from reading entries. My mother has always loved her original of an Indian mother and child that my dad purchased in early 70's. I wish there was more info such as a Wiki page on Gina/Gerda and her life's talents. Sorry for your loss, but grateful for her talent.
Conrad Nay
July 5, 2018
Gerda Christoffersen was a name I heard often when visiting my aunt and uncle in Calgary in years gone by. They were friends ( Bob & Phyllis Svare) and after their passing I inherited 10 - 12 works of hers, from paintings to pastels. Beautiful works of art.
Rob Williams
April 1, 2017
I have the original medicine man on buckskin given too me by my friends John //Marie Murphy . Which was painted by Gerda .
Sheilla Hicks
November 17, 2016
Neesja
My uncle from Standard, Alberta gave me two of your mom's paintings. His name was Charlie Christensen. I have the paintings hung in my home and I cherish them dearly. I would love to know more about the paintings. I can't find them in the numerous paintings on the internet. They were painted in 1949. I would love to hear from you and perhaps you could give me some information on your mom and perhaps the paintings. My name is Sheilla Hicks and I live in Pincher Creek, Alberta. My email address is [email protected]
Norm Dowling
August 14, 2016
I met Gina several times back in the seventies through the Lalonde family in Edmonton. I was only fourteen at the time but always remember how kindly she treated myself and my friends. She always listened to us with respect and made us feel important. I will always remember her with kindness. A great person and my sincere sympathy at her passing.
Agnes Mikkelsen
June 23, 2016
Dear Neeja, So sorry to hear of Gina's passing, i remember meeting you in Calgary and going out to dinner with you and your mom!! I was travelling and selling jewellery at the time. Hope you are well. i think of you and your mom often.
Isca Wuttunee
April 9, 2016
Hi, Neeja Iam sorry to hear about your mom.
Judy Half
January 26, 2016
Hello I am a Cree woman from Treaty Six Alberta. I love your work as it inspires me and has inspired even more to conduct research about native american portrait(or).
Deloralie Brown
January 8, 2016
When I was a young girl living in Calgary, my parents bought several of Gina's paintings! I have 2 of them still in my home! She was a very talented artist and I met her at one point in time! God bless her and keep her. ❤
katrina boyes
November 1, 2015
To Neeja, so sorry to hear of Gerda's passing, I remember the time Ivan and I stayed with her in Calgary and having you stay with us in Toronto. Happy memories much love Katrina Boyes Australia
[email protected]
Cheryl Cunningham
September 7, 2015
Hello from Banff Alberta , I am sad to find that Gina/gerda has passed . My mother was a friend of her's back in the 60's served her everyday for breakfast at the carousel restaurant on marine drive in North vancouver. They became close and my mom always loved her unique character. One day she gave her an oil on canvas painting of the Buffalo hunter which we had framed many years ago . It was a gift to my mom (who has passed as well ) I have not seen anything out there and believe it is only one of one . I am proud to still have this painting and cherish it as my mother cherished your moms friendship! no one can ever replace a mom , let's be thankful for the time we had and for your moms incredible talent and love of people. Very generous soul! I hope they are dancing in heaven together x
Marianne Doherty
June 9, 2015
Dear Neesja,Monty Rickie Lee and Brian,
I have recently gone on home computer. I have wonderful memories of our childhood trips to Morley and Banff. I remember your Mom with fondness for her spontaneity.As I mentioned in my letter to Rickie, it was a special time where we lived life large. I think of you all often.
Much Love Marianne Doherty
Jason McRae
May 11, 2015
Fondly Remembered by ROSE's Grandsons( Wendy's Boys. ) :)
GC artist bio in Canadian calendar
Neesja Christoffersen-Pedersen
October 5, 2014
Gs oil huge painting of the Bancock Chief and wife
Neesja Christoffersen-Pedersen
October 5, 2014
G in the "Familie Journal" magazine in Denmark
Neesja Christoffersen-Pedersen
October 5, 2014
G & her brothers
Neesja Christoffersen-Pedersen
October 5, 2014
G in the 40's riding in the Calgary Stampede Parade
Neesja Christoffersen-Pedersen
October 5, 2014
G in the grass in the 60's
Neesja Christoffersen-Pedersen
October 5, 2014
G with one her beautiful oils
Neesja Christoffersen-Pedersen
October 5, 2014
G at home in the 80's
Neesja Christoffersen-Pedersen
October 5, 2014
October 5, 2014
Thank you all, wonderful folks, for your condolences and memories! When we first got this obituary to commemorate our beautiful mother, we didn't know it could be made permanent, as it is now. I want to apologize to everyone for taking so long to respond to your lovely messages and I appreciate your patience!
Today would have been Mom's 97th birthday. We all miss her very much, but she's around in spirit!
Much love to you dear folks and much love to Mom. xoxx
Barbara (Barbie) Frettem Shortman
September 30, 2014
Neesja,
I remember your mother, you and Monte living 2 houses away on Osage Avenue in Santa Fe when you and I were about to start 2nd grade. I remember your mother hanging 7 or 8 huge canvas in the garage to paint her Native children for her coloring book. I always thought your mother was the most stunning woman I ever met. I am so sorry for your loss.
Joyce Van Scheik
September 24, 2014
Nesja, I am sorry to hear of your loss, she was such a whimsical talent, and last I heard you were doing some of that work too.
Greg Schmidt
August 15, 2014
I knew Gina Gerda when I was a teenager in Lacombe, Alberta. She would stay at a lodge that I worked at. She was one of the most colorful people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. She painted my portrait, and I helped her sell her paintings to the patrons at the lodge. She came back every year to stay and find tranquility, and create more works of art. She was a one of a kind, wonderful, beautiful person. I am so happy to have known her when I did. Thank you Gina for being you.
July 25, 2014
My condolences to Ms Christoffersen's family. I didn't know her, but I am privileged to own one of her beautiful works of art, a pastel of a native man, given to me by my uncle Ron Schumann. Ron ran the teahouse at the top of Mount Norquay in Banff in the 60s, and had many of Gerda's portraits of Natives hanging in the teahouse. I believe they knew each other.
Shelagh Cowie, Toronto
April 25, 2014
I don't know Gina Christoffersen, or of her work until over 30 years ago, I saw this beautiful drawing of a little girl which belonged to my husband's grandmother, fell in love with it since. Lucky for me, my husband inherited it and it is now in our house and I admire it everyday.
-Small world - : My nephew Darren (in Toronto) is one of her great nephew's best friend. I do hope to have the opportunity to see her other works which her grand-nephew's father gave him.
May her art continue to inspire all.
Elsie Cheng-Paul (Toronto)
March 8, 2014
Nessja, your mom had a very interesting and eventful life, remember the yellow lotus and going to the Continental Steak house in Calgary, when she walked in the three performers stopped in the middle of their act and said HI G. Will talk to later, will take some pictures of the paintings I have and send them along, Robert Barlow
Gail Christoffersen
February 15, 2014
I have loved her paintings for so very many years. She brightened our home with her prints. I am so sad to hear of her passing.
February 7, 2014
Michael Baber
Albuquerque, NM
Lynne Bilton Hannay
February 2, 2014
Neesja,
We were saddened to hear of the passing of your mother. My 99 year old mother and I were reminiscing last night and found this-posting.
I clearly remember when you, your mother, and Monte stepped off the plane in Calgary from New Mexico. I was dating Brian and we were there to meet you.
I still remember you as a tiny, sweet, fun 13 year old with waist length hair and Monte as a 9 year old blonde, quiet, a little shy, with a winsome smile and sincerity in every sentence.
Your mother fascinated me. She taught me how to make clothes without a pattern, not to be afraid of being myself, and how important it is to express who you are. In your own way.
My best to you, your siblings, and extended family.
Susan Scholton
January 5, 2014
Growing up in Vancouver,my mother discovered Gerda's paintings when I was in my teens.I was studying art and she could not afford to keep me painting in oils so encouraged me to try different mediums.I used to search out her work regularly and was fascinated with her subjects.Thank-you for keeping this page open for her fans.I am so sorry for your loss,and only wanted to tell you that her personality and work helped me not to fear to be unique.
Nonni Anderson
October 6, 2013
Correction to my previous post, Should have read > My wish was for her Great Grandson to have met her.
Nonni Anderson
October 6, 2013
Today I was reminded that this was G's birthday. She was a beautiful and strong woman. It's been 40 years (approx.) since this unbelievable person of strength and vitality became a part of my life via her son Monte. Together we have a son who has grown to be a fine young man with a son of his own. My wish was that someday this grandson would meet the whirlwind that was the root of his paternal family. Sadly this was not to be, but there are stories, pictures and wonderful art work to be passed along. "G" is in my thoughts often so today as I think of her and her family my wishes are for the memories to be happy. LUV"N"STUFF
Rip Gerda
Cheryl Harry
July 18, 2013
I have inherited these originals form mother in law, Im sure they would mean alot to someone, my email if interested is [email protected]
Cheryl Harry
July 18, 2013
What a great artist and legacy
Cheryl Harry
July 18, 2013
July 10, 2013
Neesja I hope you remember me. My name is Tammy Ford and we knew each other during your student loan years. Susan Blont was another person you may remember. I just framed that beautiful painting of yours. The little girls wearing white with a turquoise background! It is hanging on my wall in my home in Claresholm Alberta. Thank you so much Neesja ...I will never forget you. Sorry that is my way of contacting you and I am sorry about your Mom. Email me at [email protected] if you like.
Fran Andres
May 27, 2013
I just discovered Gerda had passed on and am sending my sympathy as well as fond memories. I checked online a few years back trying to find your Mom and could not find anything about her or her paintings. She used to come in as a regular customer to the Big Scoop in White Rock B. C. We were all so amazed at her artwork and her eccentric personality. On one of her visits she sold me 2 of her baby Indian pastels on brown velvet for a very good price then she drew a large one of an Indian warrior? with 2 feathers and long braided hair while sitting in her favorite seat at our restaurant. She gave it to me and it has hung in my house since that day back in 1979 or there about.She was unbelievably talented and generous and will be always remembered by her wonderful works of art that grace so many peoples lives.
Mimi Tinker
April 13, 2013
So sorry to have just learned today of Gerda Christoffersen's passing. I was just looking up art that I have in note cards when I found this obituary. Sad..Rest in Peace,from Mimi Tinker
Brenda (Klunck) Wendling
March 28, 2013
I'll never forget one night I was staying over and G was quite literally chasing me around the apartmemt with a handful of raw fish hollering about the health benefits. Of course I was horrified!She was very strong in her convictions.Just hillarious...she will be missed!
Christoffersen Papoose
Bill Reilly
March 13, 2013
My mother knew Gerda in Calgary. Gerda gave her a beautiful original painting of a papoose to commemorate my birth in 1944. I still have it and it is in perfect condition having been framed behind glass all these years. She was an amazing artist and from what Mom said, a fun person to be around.
Deborah Pomroy
March 2, 2013
I recently inherited four of Ms Christoffersen's paintings and was researching them online only to find that she has passed away only a few months ago. My aunt, Maxine Lovett, lived in Santa Fe and "hung out" with some Canyon Road artists in the 60s. I inherited the paintings from her. I have to say that Ms C wasn't anything I expected as to her work, but she definitely was like someone my aunt would know. My paintings are different than what I've been able to find so far. They are black ( chalk?) on white paper and have a haunting quality that I keep staring at. Two baby faces and two women faces. Perhaps someone can tell me more about them. My condolences to family and friends. I'm sure her spirit will be missed.
February 17, 2013
Feb. 17,2013
Sorry to read of her death,always hoped to meet her. My husband and I bought her painting of a squaw and baby on her shoulder as the keepsake of our honeymoon to Mt Rushmore in Aug. 1967. It has hung in our den all these 45 years and admired by all.
Sincerely, Judy Strack, WI
January 18, 2013
Goodby my friend artist Chris MacClure
Irene Jaramillo
January 14, 2013
So sorry to hear of her passing! My deepest sympathy to her family and friends. I fell in love with her art work the first time I saw it and its a sad day to know she is gone but wonderful to know her beautiful artwork will live on forever!
Sue Backs
January 7, 2013
So sorry to hear of the loss of Gerda Christoffersen. I was an eight or nine year old girl when she came into my Dads' shop in Bowness ( my Dad built houses and had a lumberyard in Calgary in the 1960's). She would have come in the the late 1960's. She wore tall black boots and hotpants (a type of shorts with a skirt over) and was amazing to me. She came in with an entourage and wanted someone to build rustic frames for her art. My uncle ended up making the frames and she gave several works to my Dad and my Uncle. When I graduated from University I found "Medicine Man" on a deer hide and gave it to my parents as a thank you for all the help they gave me. Today my parents are gone and I have inherited "Medicine Man". My brother just gave me a lovely piece of art by Gerda that he found in Leduc (of all places) for Christmas. She continues to pop into my life with her art and reminds me of a young girl who was astounded with her big heart and big personality.
Marie Peters
December 8, 2012
Though we never met Gerda her paintings have held a place of honor in our home for 25 years. Every few months we do an internet search to learn more about her and finding this guest book tonight and reading each of these comments is a new insight we can cherish along with her talent.
Albert Chernoff
October 5, 2012
We knew Gerda from her life outside of Santa Fe, and her work which we have in our home. She shared time with my parents, Marguerite and Sam Chernoff, and we sold her work in our store, Wrights Collection. She is one of a kind, a special person, and when I look at her pictures on my wall, I will always remember her.
Ralph Park
September 19, 2012
In 1970, I bumped into Gina in the elevator of the Queens. Later she introduced me to Neesja and Monte. Very special energy. Later I was to meet good friends Tojo and Klaus independently. Now we've come full circle. This time I get to say goodbye.
Stacey Redick
September 13, 2012
A candle for you Gina. Your visits to my Mom Rose were always an awesome experience into how you saw the world as a much wider, wilder and passionate place than the rest of us.
Neesja Christoffersen-Pedersen
September 2, 2012
I want to express our sincere appreciation to all the lovely folks who have written their sweet messages of condolence for our beautiful Mom!! Soon the GuestBook will be closed...you can get in touch with the us.
Lovingly, Neesja
Klaus Urban
August 4, 2012
Nothing but fond memories of "G",definatly one of a kind,I will always remember her in the fondest of ways.Enjoy wherever you are "G" You will be missed!!!!!
August 4, 2012
I remember Gerda very well! She lived down the hall from us when we were in The Queens beside the stadium. She was a true original; one who followed her own inner harmony; a talented artist. I very much hope that someone will write a biography of her life....I would love to read about her!
Lois Hayes, Qualicum Beach
Wendy Contant..
August 3, 2012
Neesha...what a surprise to see this news.I have not seen any of your family for so very many years but have great memories of your mom when we visited at your place by the stadium years ago. You did a painting of us all.So sorry to hear of Gerdas passing... what a life she had! This picture is just how i remember her.
Pat Cawthorn
August 3, 2012
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
H.F.(Herb) LEGG
August 3, 2012
'God gave us memory so that we might have roses in December.' - Sir James M.Barrie, 1st Baronet, Order of Merit and author. Gina is one of our roses.
Heather Dofoo (Anderson)
August 3, 2012
Gina was one of the most fascinating people I have ever met. My parents welcomed her into our home and I experienced a talented woman that truly lived in the moment. Something I am always seeking to do. My sympathy to Neesha and Monte.
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