Peggy Lee Christiansen

Peggy Lee (Bentjen) Christiansen, 67, of Lexington, Nebraska, passed away Monday, July 11, 2016, at Nebraska Medicine in Omaha, Nebraska, after a brief illness. She was born to Otto and DeLoris (Beck) Bentjen on July 26, 1948, in Pender, Nebraska, and was raised on a farm east of Thurston. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Pender, and graduated from Thurston High School in 1966. Peg married Martin Christiansen on April 5, 1970, at St. Mark’s in Pender, and moved with him to Aurora, Nebraska. Two children were born to this marriage, Kimberly Ann and Russell Lee. Peg became very ill with a kidney disease in the early 1970s, and received the gift of a kidney from her sister, Sara Sue Larson, in 1974. She became one of the first women in the United States to have a child after a kidney transplant. The couple eventually settled in Lexington, Nebraska, where they raised their children and lived very full lives. She held jobs at the Royal Hotel, Tom’s Midwest Liquor, Pizza Hut, and Walmart. She was forced to retire after suffering from a fall and breaking her back. Peg was an independent soul who worked hard to provide for her children. She was an incredibly devoted grandmother to Justen and Shania. She loved animals and will meet many who have gone on before her at the Rainbow Bridge. She loved attending her grandchildren’s school events, crafting, needlepoint, painting, drawing, and puzzles. She will always be remembered for her great sense of humor, kindness, and generosity. Peg is survived by her husband, Martin, and children, Kimberly (David) Sheldon of Lexington, and Russell Christiansen of Omaha; two grandchildren, Justen and Shania Gutierrez of Lexington; six brothers and sisters, Shirley (Dennis) Glissman, Sara Sue (Eric) Larson, Fred (Lori) Bentjen, Nan (Dave) Johnson, Eleanor Baier and Chuck (Donna) Bentjen, one brother-in-law, John (Susan), and many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly! She was preceded in death by her parents, Otto and DeLoris (Beck) Bentjen and one niece. The family has honored Peg’s wishes for cremation. There will be no visitation. A Memorial Graveside Service will be held Saturday, July 16, 2016, at 1:30 p.m. at Greenwood Cemetery at Lexington with Pastor Chuck Bentjen officiating. Memorials are suggested to the Kidney Foundation. Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements. To share online condolences with the family please visit: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com.