Winifred Ann (Knudson) Christensen, known affectionately as “Wini,” peacefully passed away on October 8, 2025, at the age of 90, after a brief illness. Surrounded by friends and family at HIA Heather’s House in Fargo, North Dakota, she left this world like a gentle late-summer breeze, reflecting the warmth she brought to those around her.
Born on August 9, 1935, Wini was the youngest of four children raised on the 2K Ranch near Taylor, North Dakota. She graduated from Taylor High School before attending Concordia College in Moorhead, where she earned a degree in Education in 1957. Her teaching career began at McKinley Elementary School in Fargo, where she met her future husband, Douglas (Doug) Christensen. The couple married on August 7, 1960, embarking on a life filled with adventure as Doug’s Army career took them across the globe.
Over the years, Wini and Doug welcomed three sons into their family. They lived in ten different states and Germany before finally settling back in Fargo in 1982. Together, they built a vibrant community of friends and family, enjoyed travel, and cherished weekends at Bad Medicine Lake, a place that held special meaning for Wini.
After Doug’s passing in January 1995, Wini deepened her involvement in local activities, continuing to travel and engage with her community. She played significant roles in organizations such as PEO and the Fine Arts Club, while also being an active member of First Lutheran Church, her home base. Her weekly schedule was filled with coffee meet-ups, exercise classes, and Sunday brunches, reflecting her commitment to nurturing relationships.
Wini’s legacy extends to her seven grandchildren, who affectionately called her “Grandma Wini.” She maintained strong connections with them through texts, phone calls, and FaceTime, and treasured their annual summer gatherings for Cabin Week. Her love for her family was evident, as was her passion for reading, Bison football, Class B basketball tournaments, and local college music programs.
Those who knew Wini often remarked on her kind, generous spirit and infectious sense of humor. She was a source of wisdom and support to many, creating lasting memories with those fortunate enough to spend time with her.
Wini is preceded in death by her husband Doug, her parents Knute and Evaline Knudson, and siblings Kenneth, Joyce, and Vernon Knudson. She is survived by her sons Eric of Hanover, Minnesota; David (Tracy) of Tampa, Florida; and Jeff (Amee) of Farmington, Minnesota, along with her grandchildren Casey, Rachel, Jona, Madeline, Mackenzie, Elise, and Dane. She also leaves behind extended family, including the children and grandchildren of her siblings, who played a significant role in her life.
A visitation will be held at 9:00 AM on October 20 at First Lutheran Church, followed by a celebration of her life at 10:00 AM. A private burial will take place thereafter. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the FLC Foundation in Fargo or HIA Heather’s House. Memories and online condolences can be shared by visiting www.hansonrunsvold.com. The family is being assisted by Hanson-Runsvold Funeral Home.
