Gertrude L. Christianson, 90, of Owatonna, died Friday, June 1, 2012 at Traditions II. She was born July 15, 1921 in Lemond Township, Minnesota the daughter of John and Cora (Schwenke) Helms. She was baptized August 7, 1921 at St. Peter Evangelical Church in Otisco. She was confirmed on Spetember 8, 1935 where her family attended Zion Lutheran Church. Gertrude attended D.D. Hanson District 53, Schmaski District 35 and Steele Center District 87. She was a member of two 4-H clubs, Lemond Snappy 4-H Busters and Steele Center Firecrackers. After school she worked at E.F. Johnsons in Waseca and then at Jostens. Gertrude married Floyd Christianson on January 7, 1946 at St. John Lutheran Church. They moved to Owatonna in 1956. Gertrude started working at the Owatonna Canning Company in 1960 and retired from there after 24 years of service in 1984. Gertrude enjoyed many trips to visit relatives and she loved their company. She also enjoyed fishing, sewing, crocheting, knitting, playing cards and helping those in need. She is survived by her two sons, Ivan (and Becky) Christianson of Owatonna, Loran (and Gail) Christianson of Morristown; daughter, Ellen (and William) Wagner of Owatonna; 12 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; one great great grandchild and many nieces, nephews and cousins. She loved them all. She was preceded in death by her husband Floyd Christianson; brother, Roland (and Anna); sister, Marie (and Ansger); and infant great grandson, Joshua. Thanks to her parents, family, friends and the love of her Heavenly Father she had a wonderful life. Visitation will be at Michaelson Funeral Home on Wednesday, June 6, 2012 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and one hour before the church service. Funeral services will be held Thursday, June 7, 2012 at 11 a.m. at St. John Lutheran Church with Pastor Dave Klawiter officiating. Interment will be in the Steele Center Cemetery in Somerset Township. Memorials are preferred to St. John Lutheran Church. Visitation: 06/06/2012 16:00 06/06/2012 19:00 Service: and one hour before the church service 06/07/2012 11:00