Brian Hannes Kristjanson

Brian Hannes Kristjanson, 65, of Grand Forks, passed away on Friday, July 3, 2009, at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, after a short battle with cancer. Brian was born in Grafton, ND, October 2, 1943, the son of Hannes & Elsie Kristjanson. He graduated from G.F. Central High School in 1961. Brian married Cheryl Cox on October 20, 1963. Brian was in the farm implement business at Kristy's Inc. In 1986, Brian & Cheryl opened "Special Occasions", card and gift store. In most recent years, Brian worked for Rydell Chevrolet. Brian will always be remembered for his passion for racing. He was inducted into the River Cities Speedway Hall of Fame in 2000. His love for snowmobiling also brought many years of joy. But most of all, Brian will be remembered for his loving devotion to his wife and children. Brian is survived by his wife of 45 years, Cheryl; children, Kamala (David) Curlee of Talladega, AL, Paula (Dave) Wilkinson of Queen Creek, AZ, Jeannie (Brian) Karpinski of St. Louis, MO, Cole Kristjanson of Fargo, and Liz (Jared Southerland) Kristjanson of Cary, NC; grandchildren, Brittany (Jeremy) Kirby, Derek Kristjanson, Bailey Kristjanson, Aubrianna and Shane Wilkinson and Beck Southerland; great-grandchild, Presley Kirby; mother, Elsie Kristjanson; and siblings, Keith (Arlinda) Kristjanson, Doreen (Bruce) Marston, Ken (Peggy) Kristjanson, & Janis (Tom Karch) Kristjanson. He was preceded in death by his father, Hannes. FUNERAL SERVICES: 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, July 7, 2009, at Calvary Lutheran Church 1405 9th St. in Grand Forks. VISITATION: One hour prior to the funeral service at the church. INTERMENT: (Private Family Burial) Memorial Park Cemetery, Grand Forks, ND.