AMENIA — Richard M. Christiansen Jr., 87, (affectionately known as Dick), a resident of Amenia, passed away peacefully at home on April 11, 2023. Born March 22, 1936, in Shawangunk, New York, he was the son to the late Richard Sr. and Margaret (Romer) Christiansen. On Dec. 31, 1957, in Pawling, he married Patricia (Carol) Christiansen, who survives at home.
Dick served in the United States Navy and was honorably discharged on Nov. 27, 1953.
Mr. Christiansen worked at various locations throughout his lifetime, finally retiring in 1998 from the Wassaic Developmental Center where he was a Therapy Aide.
Mr. Christiansen was a 64-year lifetime member and Past Fire Chief of the Wassaic Fire Company where he could still be found at the firehouse daily.
Dick was a HUGE NY Mets fan and a one-time season ticket holder #LFGM. He additionally enjoyed NASCAR and watching his favorite driver, Jeff Gordon. Richard enjoyed trips to the area casinos and was an avid Joker Poker player for many years.
In addition to his loving wife Patricia, Mr. Christiansen is survived by son Richard M. Christiansen III (wife Tina) of Syracuse, New York, daughter Carol Robert (husband Tony) of Amenia, son Mark Christiansen (wife Donna) of Dover Plains. He is also survived by sisters Patty Austin, Alice Kreiling, Irene Christiansen and Peggy Mercado; grandchildren Matthew Christiansen, Andrew Christiansen, Jeremy Robert, Shayne Robert, Tyler Christiansen, Austin Christiansen, Jeremy Christiansen, Brandi Doyle and Ricky Christiansen; great grandchildren Joey, Logan, Alana, Annabelle and Leon.
He was predeceased by brothers Roy Christiansen, Robert Christiansen, Raymond Christiansen and a sister Joan Rockwood.
A graveside service will be held on Saturday April 22, at the Irondale Cemetery in Millerton N.Y. at 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Dutchess County SPCA located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park NY 12538
The Kenny Funeral Home has care of arrangements.
