Caleb Christiansen
Caleb Christiansen, 21, of Burnet died Dec. 14, 2011. He was born in Upland Calif., on Sept. 10, 1990, to Chris and Janet Christiansen. He moved with his family to Burnet when he was 1½, where he lived for the remainder of his short but full life.
He asked Jesus into his heart as a young boy and served him faithfully as a member of First Baptist Church of Burnet during his school years. He participated in Main Street Bethlehem since its inception, beginning at the age of 2.
From the family’s position at the inn, he began watching and learning from the blacksmith until he inched his way in and stayed. He liked to refer to himself as the “head blacksmith.” He made and gave out many fish and hearts and was a part of a ministry that has told the story of Christ’s love to more than 200,000 people during the last 19 years.
He served on mission trips and found his gift of connecting to people of all backgrounds.
He sat with his dad in the sound booth at the church as a child, learned and then began working there in junior high, where he developed his love of music and mixing. He then served as Upwards basketball coach for several years, blending his love of basketball and children.
He did all these things well before the expected age – but age wasn’t a boundary for him. He loved life and shared that joy with all he met. He was a magnet for people, knew no strangers and made everyone feel special. Whether at church, school or in the community; whether riding his scooter, working or just hanging out with family or friends, he lived life to the fullest.
He will be deeply missed by all, but has started an eternity full of joy with his heavenly father.
Survivors include sisters Daisy and Stacy Christiansen, both of Burnet; brother Tim Christiansen of Austin; brother Wes Christiansen of Denver; grandmother “Grams” Chick Wood of Burnet; uncles Mark and Greg Smith; and a large extended family including great aunts, great uncles and cousins.
A celebration of life is 10 a.m. Dec. 17 at First Baptist Church, 108 S. Vanderveer St. in Burnet, (512) 756-4481.
Arrangements by Clements-Wilcox Funeral Home, 306 Texas 29 East in Burnet, (512) 756-2222.
Condolences can be made at www.clementswilcoxburnet.com.