Bernice Catherine Christensen

Bernice (Lutgen) Christensen, 93, passed away peacefully in her sleep at home on July 1, 2026, with family caring for her.

Bernice was a woman of tremendous generosity, practical wisdom, directness, and fierce love. She welcomed people from every walk of life into her home, business, and heart. Her generosity went beyond kind words: she quietly offered many people a hand, a place to start, honest advice, or to be someone to listen.

Born and raised in Seattle, Bernice attended Catholic school through high school, and her faith remained important throughout her life. She lived and worked in Seattle until moving to Westport in the 1970s, where she and Kenneth “Ken” Christensen built a life and legacy together.

Bernice and Ken were partners in love, life, and business for more than 50 years. They raised a family, operated businesses, weathered challenges, and built a life of hard work, laughter, strong opinions, and enduring devotion. Their partnership was rooted in commitment to each other and their family.

Bernice ran the motel and worked alongside Ken in construction. Later, they transitioned to rental properties. She loved conversation, people’s stories, and the lively personalities who came through her life.

She especially enjoyed the people she met at Reliable Blacksmith/K.C. Truck & Equipment Sales in Aberdeen and loved a good business deal. She took particular delight in selling equipment while Ken was away and later reminded him, she had made the sale herself.

Her grandchildren, ages 15-52, each knew her differently, but all knew they were loved. Bernice leaves a legacy of generosity, resilience, humor, hard work, candor, and giving people a chance.

Her beloved husband, Kenneth “Ken” Christensen, and her stepson, Wayne Christensen preceded her in death.

She is survived by her children: Kathryn “Casey” (Toby) Hartill, Cindy (Fred) Long, and Jaymie (Doug) Hirsch; her stepdaughter, Lisa Christensen; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and many others touched by her kindness, honesty, generosity, and direct love.

A celebration of Bernice’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, honor Bernice by listening to someone who needs to be heard, offering practical help to a family member or neighbor, or sharing honest advice with love. A private family graveside took place at Fern Hill Cemetery. Please take moment to share your memories or a note of condolence for the family at www.fernhillfuneral.com Arrangements are entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home in Aberdeen, WA.