James R. Christiansen

James R. Christiansen, a beloved member of the Moline community, passed away peacefully at home on October 25, 2025, at the age of 86. Born on April 9, 1939, in Moline, IL. Jim was known for his larger-than-life presence, becoming a cherished figure in the lives of many through his outgoing personality, generous spirit, and devotion to his family.

Jim was a proud graduate of Moline High School in 1957 and then pursued further education at Ferris State College in Big Rapids, MI, inspired by the path set by his father. He also attended the University of Mississippi, affectionately known as "Ole Miss", before returning home to help his father's growing business.

In his professional life, Jim owned and operated L.R. Christiansen Company, along with his brother Jon, where he made his mark as an industrial tool salesman.  It was his ability to develop relationships with people that led to new opportunities for his entrepreneurial spirit to thrive.  Jim was a true believer in investing in his local community and never giving up on anything he loved, and his community was one of those things.  In the early 80s, when times were tough for our community, Jim and his brother spearheaded the redevelopment of the Farmall plant in Rock Island, after it closed down and thousands of jobs were lost in the area. They then moved on to redevelop several other local distressed properties.  He was very proud to be part of the revitalization of several local vacant facilities that gave many new businesses a place to start, grow, and stay in our community. 

Jim found joy in many activities outside of work, particularly his love for golf, playing gin rummy, and traveling. He especially loved watching football with his family and friends, sharing laughter, friendly debates, and lifelong traditions of friendly bets with his family on football game days.  Jim and his wife, Pat, spent many years in Sarasota, Florida, where he provided a place for his family and grandchildren to visit for special vacation time and to unwind from the cold Midwestern winters.

He was the past president of Short Hills Country Club, where he was a member for 42 years. Golf was his passion sport, but it was more about the camaraderie and relationships that developed at Short Hills, both on and off the course. Short Hills was a "one stop shop," as he would say, a place to play golf, play cards, have a drink, do business, watch his children and a few of his grandchildren grow up there, and socialize with some great friends.  Family meant everything to him, and he was never shy to let them know it.

He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia (Hillbert), whom he married on August 26, 1961. Together, they raised three children: Jill (David) Latting, Sue (Charlie) Hintz, and Scott (Kami) Christiansen. Jim took immense pride in his family, which includes grandchildren Casey (Jake) Hanzlik, Kayla (Jake) Scieszinski, Stefani Hintz, James “JC” (Brittany) Hintz, Keaton (Chloe) Christiansen, and Kara Christiansen, as well as nine great-grandchildren, with the 10th on the way.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Lee Roy and Harriett (Eckdahl) Christiansen, and his brother, Jon. His legacy will endure through the memories shared with his loved ones and the impact he made on the lives he touched.

A Celebration of Life will take place at Short Hills Country Club, East Moline, IL, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM on November 1, 2025. Family and friends are invited to gather and celebrate the remarkable life of Jim Christiansen for this luncheon.

Memorials may be made to the Special Olympics of the Quad Cities, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on his Memory Page at www.wendtfuneralhome.com.