Thomas "Aldie" Alden Christesen

Thomas “Aldie” Alden Christesen was born September 25, 1943, in Hutchinson, Kansas to Paul Thomas and Ruth Leola (McCreight) Christesen. Aldie grew up in Lyndon, Kansas and graduated in 1961 from Lyndon High School. After graduating, Aldie joined the Army Reserves and served faithfully for four years. Aldie fell in love with his sweetheart, Carolyn McWhorter, and proposed to her thru a letter. On August 14, 1971, they were united in marriage sharing together fifty-two years of laughter and memories. Aldie and Carolyn were blessed with two sons: Mark and Philip and later blessed with six grandchildren. He deeply loved his family and loved making memories with them. Aldie was a devoted husband, dedicated father, and proud grandfather. Aldie was a skilled carpenter and woodworking was his passion. He owned and operated Aldie’s Cabinet Shop for many years. His love of woodworking and carpentry skills shined in all the fine cabinets he built. He never let a piece of wood go untouched without creating something useful. Before moving to Salem, Missouri in 2009, Aldie managed Lyndon Building Materials for several years. Aldie lived a very humble and simple life and loved to dedicate his time and talent to help others. He served as municipal judge, councilman, and mayor in Lyndon, Kansas. He had a servant’s heart and was very active with Mt. Pleasant Community Church in Kansas. During his membership he served as deacon, bus driver, and taught Sunday School. Aldie was a member of Salem First Baptist Church and liked to fellowship with others. He truly enjoyed reading his Bible and also served in The Gideons International Ministry. Aldie entered into eternal rest on June 30, 2022, at his home in Salem, Missouri at the age of seventy-nine years. Those left behind to treasure his memory are his loving wife: Carolyn Christesen of Salem, MO; sons: Mark Christesen and wife Bethany of Lawrence, KS and Philip Christesen and wife Britney of Salem, MO; sister: Jeline Hinkson of St. Louis, MO; brother: David Christesen of Arlington, TX; grandchildren: Drew, Will, Morgan, Brenna, Luke, and Cora; extended family and dear friends. Preceding him in death, his parents: Tom and Ruth Christesen. Aldie leaves behind a strong living legacy and will always be remembered by his family and friends as a true gentleman. He will be forever missed. Funeral Services for Thomas “Aldie” Alden Christesen were held Thursday, July 6, 2023, at the Salem First Baptist Church with Pastor Joel Hayworth officiating. Congregational Music was led by Minister David Hancock. Serving as Pallbearers were Mike Godi, Brent Hogelin, Dave Nichols, Scott Karr, Nathan Bagby, and Lonny Houk. Honorary Pallbearers were Joe Brand, Pete Cortinas, Bob Wofford, Mike Thompson, and Steve Spencer. Burial was in the Cedar Grove Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Memorial Contributions may be made in memory of Aldie Christesen to Salem First Baptist Church - Missions. Memorial Envelopes will be available. Online Condolences may be entered at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Thomas "Aldie" Alden Christesen

September 25, 1943 - June 30, 2023