Obituary of Mabyn S. Christianson

Mabyn Saxe Christianson, age 69, passed away on January 10, 2016 after an epic standoff with ALS. Known as "Bim" to friends and family, she was a resident of Chester, for over 45 years and leaves behind many whose lives she touched with generosity, loyalty, and great love. "Bim" is survived by her best friend and husband of 50 years, Arthur Christianson, and her four children: Karen Christianson and Christopher Juhl, Kerry Christianson, Bonnie Brennenam (Doug), and Carl Christianson (Jolene). Additionally, she leaves behind her beloved grandchildren: Reagan, Anne, Ella, and Joseph. She also leaves her sister, Nancy Saxe Patten (Donald) and her brother Frank Saxe along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins around the world for whom she felt immeasurable gratitude. And of course she will be deeply missed by her poodles: Chance, and John Denver. Hundreds of Chester families first met "Bim" when she was a teacher at Jack and Jill Nursery School, a job that energized, amused, and centered her as she helped to nurture so many wonderful children. When her own children were in school, she went back to college to become a registered dental hygienist, earning her degree from Tunxis Community College. Her second year in dental hygiene spanned 17 years, ending as a hygienist at the Groton sub-base working as a private contractor for the Navy. Even in death, she compels all of you to floss regularly. Her retirement four years ago enabled her to submerge in her passion of quilting, joining in the community with other quilters, whose friendship meant so much. Those very friends were able to help her finish her final quilt just a week before she passed away. She has also been able to travel, garden, camp, and bake. Her proudest project was hosting a family reunion last summer to mark her 50th wedding anniversary. The Christianson family is so thankful for the support and compassion of Hospice Care, both at home and at Middlesex Hospital, as well as for all the love and encouragement from friends and family over the past four months. A memorial service will be held on Saturday January 16, 2016 at 1PM at the Deep River Congregational Church at 1 Church Street, Deep River, CT 06417. "Bim" has asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Deep River Congregational Church at 1 Church Street, Deep River CT. 06417. To share a memory or leave a condolence for "Bim's" family, please visit: www.rwwfh.com. Arrangements by Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home, Centerbrook.