James Christensen, DVM

James F. Christensen, DVM, 80, of Buchanan, passed away, Saturday, April 4, 2015 at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph. Private family services were held.  Memorial contributions may be made to Berrien County Animal Control or Hospice at Home.  Those wishing to sign Jim’s Memory Book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Jim was born April 3, 1935 in Ionia, Michigan to Carl & Leah (Winchell) Christensen.  He graduated from Ionia High School in 1953, and from Michigan State University with a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine in 1963.  Before completing his schooling, Jim entered the U.S. Army in 1955 and served in Germany in the 8th Infantry Division. On June 20, 1964, he married the former Ann Faulkner in Berrien Springs.  Jim started his Veterinary career in 1963 in Ionia, and moved to SW Michigan and opened Christensen Animal Hospital in Scottdale, MI in 1968.  Jim loved his family, work & animals.  His clients were his extended family.  He served as President of the Humane Society, was a board member of the Michigan Veterinary Association, and was a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association. He was a friend and provider to the Berrien County Animal Control staff for many years. He retired in 2013 after 50 years of veterinary practice. Jim raised sheep & llamas on his farm in Buchanan, and showed the Grand Champion Ram in Louisville, KY at the National Suffolk Sheep Association Show.  Jim was an accomplished organist, loved music, art and the outdoors, and was famous for his infectious laugh. Jim is survived by his wife Ann; his children-John (Laurel) Christensen of Chicago, David (Dianne) Christensen of New York City, Kate (Dr. Jason) Beckrow of Stevensville; five grandchildren-Anna, Justin, Caroline, Cole & Hazel; and his sister Carolyn (Fred, DVM) Shiery of Camden, MI.  He was preceded in death by his parents.