Don Christensen passed away on April 29, 2025 from complications of Progressive Supranuclear Palsy, a rare neurological disease which affected his physical abilities but never his ability to fully embrace what life offered him.

He embraced the love and devotion of Joyce, his wife of 56 years, the sharing of music and laughter with his sons Neil and Eric, the adoration and presence of his grandchildren Sophia and Dylan, and the companionship of best friends who faithfully supported his wish to continue enjoying life in every way he could.

Born in Hartford Connecticut on June 24, 1945, Don was an accomplished student and talented trumpet player who graduated Weaver High School as a Fox Scholar. He attended the University of Rochester for his undergraduate studies, where he enjoyed playing in the George Fisk jazz ensemble and hosting a late night jazz radio show. He then attended the University of Illinois to pursue his PhD in clinical psychology. In 1968 he paused his academic career path to teach 3rd grade at Barbour School in inner city Hartford, Ct.  “Mr C” ran an open classroom, allowing students to freely move to different work stations and speak (softly) with one another.  It became the model for how he would interact with others for the rest of his life, respecting those around him to work freely and independently.

Don returned to the Univ. of Illinois to complete his doctorate degree.  In 1974 he began his 39 year career holding varied positions in Dr. Ron Dozoretz’s many behavioral health entities. “Dr. C” first practiced as a clinical psychologist, establishing several inpatient programs for children and teenagers at Portsmouth Psychiatric Center. He developed The Child Growth Center, an outpatient program for children and their families, and became the Clinical Director of Options Behavioral Health to manage the CHAMPUS Demonstration Project. In 1996 he received his Executive MBA from the University of Richmond Robins School of Business and went on to serve as Clinical Director of First Home Care in Maricopa County, AZ. After a varied and interesting career, he retired as Chief Clinical Officer for FHC Health Systems.

Don’s best friend and lifelong companion was Joyce, whom he met in 1961 when they both played trumpet in the high school band. After his first date with Joyce, Don told his mother that he had just gone out with the girl he was going to marry. (She was just 16–coulda been a Beetles song).  Their marriage was a true adventure in togetherness and travel.  Calling it the Flip Flop Fund, Don and his wife raised enough funds to buy computers and other school supplies which Don personally delivered to children in need living in Asia.

Don’s children, Neil and  Eric, think of their dad as their personal hero.  He taught them important life skills—how to fish, bowl, embrace all genres of music (especially jazz), and most importantly, how to be a person of integrity.

As a grandfather, “Gramps” delighted his grandchildren  by transforming himself into Daffy Duck or “The Laughing Place” (silly being a glorious state of mind ). When Sophia and Dylan grew older, Don became their travel guide, taking them to museums, shows, historical sites, and then into his world of music through his 33’s.

Don led a full life and in many ways achieved The American Dream. (Bye Bye Miss American Pie)

Don‘s Celebration of Life will be held on June 15 at the Lesner Inn in Virginia Beach, Va. beginning at 2 PM. The service itself will be held at 3 pm.

Memories may be shared and condolences may be offered by visiting www.vacremationsociety.com