Lauris E. Christensen was born February 2, 1920 in Turner County, SD to parents Charles and Louise (Petersen) Christensen. He passed away on July 25, 2014 at Bethesda Nursing Home in Beresford, SD at the age of 94 years, 5 months and 23 days. Lauris attended school in Turner County. He married Frances Nielsen on October 10, 1941 in Crofton, NE. The couple owned and operated grocery stores in Irene, Wakonda and Beresford until retiring in 1981. Frances passed away in November of 2002 and Lauris continued to reside in Beresford until the present time. Lauris enjoyed golfing, fishing, playing cards, dancing and socializing with friends. His greatest joy in life was spending time with his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Frances, 3 brothers and 1 sister. He is survived by three children, Sharon (Pat) McElgunn, Rapid City, SD, Steve (June) Christensen, Seabrook, TX and Craig (Cindy) Christensen, Beresford, SD; six grandchildren, Rick (Breana) McElgunn, Ryan (Stacy) McElgunn, Aricka Christensen, Lauren (Nhut) Pham, Nick (Gina) Christensen and Heather (Mikael) Balderach; 10 great grandchildren; a sister Corinne Johnson, Oklahoma City, OK; and many other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. A memorial service will be held 7:00 PM, Tuesday, July 29 at Wass Funeral Home in Beresford. Donations may be directed to the Beresford Ambulance. The Christensen family would like to extend a special "Thank You" to the staff at Bethesda Nursing Home for the excellent care Lauris received there and for making it his home.