James N. Christensen

It is with sadness that we announce the unexpected death of James Neal Christensen on Sunday, April 19, 2026, from coronary artery disease.

James (Jim), the son of Harold and Mable (Boyd) Christensen, was born June 12, 1966, in Cresco, Iowa. His family later moved to Winona where he began his schooling at Madison School. From 1973 to 1975, he accompanied his parents to Kathmandu, Nepal, where he was in grades two and three. He returned to Winona to finish his schooling, graduating from Winona Senior High.

As a teenager, Jim found joy in music, playing in a band and spending hours practicing with friends in a garage. Two of his other interests later on were fishing and cooking. He liked to fish in Lake Winona and the Mississippi River. He was an expert at cleaning the fish and preparing them to eat. His interest in cooking took him to Florida where he worked as a chef. When he came back to Winona, he continued his work as a chef. One of his favorite foods to cook was chicken curry, a dish his grandson, Nathaniel, especially loved and always looked forward to.

Jim had a soft heart. He loved his family and was always helpful when he stopped at home. Every time his left, he would say “Love you.” He meant it. Many will remember him for his kindness, his generosity, and the love he gave to those around him

Jim is survived by his parents, Harold and Mable; his brother, John (Kristina) of Singapore; his brother, Trei of Winona; his sister, Jennifer of St. Paul; his son, Sebastian of Winona; his beloved grandson, Nathaniel; his nephew, Jack; his niece, Sasha; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Visitation will be held at the Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home, 376 E. Sarnia St., Winona, on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10 AM until the funeral service at 11 AM.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Jim’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.