May 2, 1954 - November 6, 2021
It is with heavy hearts that we announce that Ivan passed away peacefully at Vancouver General Hospital surrounded by his wife and two daughters. Even though his failing health took him from this world, his loving heart leaves a beacon of light for all who know him.
Ivan was born in Shellbrook, Saskatchewan on May 2, 1954 and in 1956 the family moved out west to the Cariboo. In 1981 he married Jan soon after followed by the birth of their daughter Jennifer in 1982 and Karen in 1984. They lived in various places across BC, eventually settling to raise their girls in Houston, BC where he had countless friendships and many adventures. Jan and Ivan raised their girls with strong family values and an emphasis on making memories. The girls are so fortunate being able to learn from the best and proudly pass on these values in raising their own families. Ivan's love for living in the Cariboo ended up leading him home to fish, hunt, camp and enjoy the great outdoors for his retirement years. Happiest surrounded by his family and friends, it was the perfect landing.
Ivan is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Jan. He was a proud father to two daughters, Jennifer (Jeff) and Karen (Dave) and the best grandpa to his 5 grandchildren, Kolton, Laine, Bree, Jacob and Emma. He is also survived by his brother Nick, Kathy (Larry) and Karen (Greg) as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family who he was so fortunate to be so close to. Ivan was predeceased by his parents, Les & Vi Christianson and his brother Doug.
Ivan taught those in his life that life isn't to be taken too seriously and that humour is definitely the best medicine. Family and friends are to be valued above all and he was the epitome of that statement. Always full of wise advice, a helping hand and a listening ear, he always made sure to make time for anyone who needed it.
A celebration of life will follow in the spring of 2022. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to BC Renal Agency.
"How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard"
~ A.A. Milne