Dr. Wm. H. Christianson passed away on Dec. 5, 2013 at Careage of Whidbey in Coupeville at 11:12 p.m.

“Chris- Bill- Doc” was born in Seaview, Wash., on Sept. 13, 1925 to Dr. Victor and Orpha Christianson of Longview, Wash. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Patricia in Coupeville, their daughter Kim of Cathlamet, her daughter Kristin Iacono, her husband Mike and their daughters Isabella and Athena of Everett and sons Vic Christianson of Bellingham, and Ron Christianson, his wife Vicky and their children Andrew and Nicholas of Shoreline.

His granddaughter, Kim’s daughter Elisa Kaye, his sister Phyllis Parsons and her husband Don Parsons, preceded Chris in death.

He grew up in Longview and graduated from RA Long in 1943. He was an accomplished musician at an early age as both pianist and trombone player. At age 10 he played at the christening of the Kalakala Ferry. He served in the Army Air Force during World War II and was part of his unit’s band.

A graduate of the University of Washington he began his first dental practice in Mountlake Terrace. He met the love of his life, Patricia Ward, through one of his first patients. They were married August 28, 1954 in Longview. They moved to start a new dental practice in Cathlamet in 1955, where they raised their daughter Kim and twins Vic and Ron. “Doc” was the town dentist for over 35 years. Little Theatre kept him busy as the Villain or director.

Retirement brought them to Coupeville in 1992. They found many new friends and enjoyed some winters in Arizona. His great sense of humor and ability to tell stories was a gift. He was a member of the Oak Harbor Elks Club and Lion’s. A memorial gathering was held in Shoreline for family and friends.

We are thankful for the wonderful staff at Careage of Whidbey for their compassionate care over the many months of care for Doc Chris. Memorial suggestion would be the Elisa Kay Scholarship at the Coupeville Art Center, 360-678-3396, for Kim’s daughter Elisa whose death at 16 was caused by a drunk driver.