Harlow Anders Christensen

Harlow Anders Christensen

Harlow Anders Christensen, 88, of Billings, passed away peacefully on Oct. 22, 2022, with his wife Ellatena “Tena,” daughters Paige and Kelly and niece Charlene “Chuckie” by his side. Harlow was born in Richardton, North Dakota, to Emma and Anders Christensen.

Harlow graduated from Senior High School in 1953. Harlow married Sherry Hamers in 1954, and they had two daughters: Paige and Kelly. Harlow and Sherry later divorced. Harlow worked for North Western Energy for a short time. In 1955, Harlow landed his dream job with Mountain Bell. He worked outside as a lineman, climbing telephone poles until hurting his back. Harlow then filled a management position with Mountain Bell and, boy, he was excited to get out of the cold!! Harlow met and married Ellatena Keller. With that marriage, he was blessed with daughter Debbie and son Mark. Our family grew: son Mark married Debbie Evanson. Harlow was thrilled to be a grandpa to Kevin (April) and Kristin (Jason). They gave Harlow four great-grandchildren: Jaxon, Jaron, Kyra and Kinley.

Harlow and Tena moved to Helena to finish out their Mountain Bell careers, retiring in 1984. They both decided they needed another adventure in their lives, so they opened the Donut Hole in Billings. “Gotta make the donuts.” After selling the Donut Hole, Tena retired and Harlow continued working with his daughters at La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries.

If you stopped by their home to visit Harlow, he wasn’t shy about offering you a beer any time of the day. “It’s noon somewhere.”

Harlow was a great husband, father and grandpa. He loved us unconditionally.

Harlow was preceded in death by his parents, Emma and Anders; brothers Clifford, Duane and Sherwood; one sister Betty; as well as stepchildren Debbie Keller and Mark Keller.

Harlow is survived by his wife, Ellatena “Tena”; daughters Paige Clendenin (Jeff Tabor) and Kelly Erickson (Mark Dauenhauer); daughter in-law Debbie Keller; grandson Kevin (April) Keller; granddaughter Kristin (Jason) Pinter; great-grandchildren, Jaxon, Jaron, Kyra, Kinley; and many nieces and nephews.

“I’m sittin’ right here watchin’ the sunset & drinking a beer”

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. John’s United Hospice, or charity of one’s choice.

Thank you St. John’s United Hospice, and MorningStar Assisted – Living & Memory Care.

Viewing will be from 1 to 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 28, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary, 1001 Alderson Ave., Billings. Funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 29, at American Lutheran Church, 5 Lewis Ave., Billings. Celebration of life will follow at Columbia Club (Knights of Columbus), 2216 Grand Ave., Billings.