Eric Lee Christner

Eric Lee Christner passed away after heart surgery in the early morning of January 14, 2026 at UIHC.

Visitation for Eric will be held from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM, Friday, February 6, 2026 at Lensing Funeral & Cremation Service in Iowa City.

In lieu of flowers please support The Make A Wish Foundation.

Eric was born on January 5, 1960 to Truman and Jeanette (Krabill) Christner. He grew up in Iowa City. Eric started out being very athletic and as he grew his interest and participation grew. At City High School Eric was on both the varsity track and basketball teams. Eric graduated from City High School in 1979.

Eric received a bachelor's degree in teaching from Goshen College, Goshen Indiana. While at Goshen he was on varsity basketball teams. His goal was to coach sports. Eric coached at IMS, Lone Tree and Clear Creek. He usually coached girls basketball and/or volleyball.

Eric had a unique talent where everyone believed they had a special connection with him. They all did have that special connection because Eric made it so. When family and friends read this, they will all understand.

Eric was a huge Hawkeye Fan. He attended every football game without fail. Eric loved boating and would take friends and family with him whenever he could. Another great love was his dog, Shelby. Eric took Shelby to work with him every day. Eric was the manager at The Supply Place on Gilbert Street. When customers walked in the door they were always greeted by the tiny white dog that would prance around the store. Shelby loved to be held and be a part of what's going on.

Eric is survived by his siblings: Tony (Dianne) Christner, Brenda Christner, Cheryl (Tim White) Christner, and Doug Christner (Colleen Kelley); nieces and nephews: Beth (Michael) Murray, Allison (Doug) Buschy, Lena Christner (Ryan Leppert), Breeze (Ben) Pothoff, Peter K. (Rebecca Hutchinson) White, Alissa (Paul Schwartzkopf) White, Hattie White, Ryan Christner, Matthew Christner, and all their children whom Eric loved dearly.

Eric was preceded in death by his parents and nephew, Willie (Willis) Buckles.

Online condolences at www.lensingfuneral.com