Gerald (Sonny, Sweed) Christensen age 76 of Oroville went home to be with the Lord on Aug. 19, 2012 at North Valley Hospital in Tonasket. Born April 2, 1936 in Raymond, Wash., to mother Myrtle Keeney and father Arthur (Art) Keeney.

Our beloved husband, father and grandfather has been a long time resident of Oroville. He met and married the love of his life Dolly on June 30, 1962 in Tonasket. Dolly tells us that after a couple of dates she knew Sonny was the love of her life.

Oroville has since been their home where Sonny worked at Zosel lumber until he retired. Sonny and Dolly loved to travel. Together they have developed many friends, some close enough to call family.

Sonny was a member of Valley Christian Fellowship and was a born again Christian.

On June 30, 2012 Sonny and Dolly celebrated 50 years of marriage together.

Sonny leaves behind his wife Christine (Dolly) of Oroville; daughter, Joanne Leonard of Wenatchee; granddaughter, Natika Leonard of Wenatchee; daughter, Geraldine (Geri) Hampton of Wenatchee from a previous marriage; son, Michael Waller Sr.; brother, Jerry and wife Echo Keeney of Okanogan; sister, Alda May Deroiser of Spokane and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Sonny was preceded in death by his mother Myrtle and father Art Keeney.

Services will be held on Saturday, Aug. 25 at 11 a.m. at Valley Christian Fellowship at 142 East Oroville Road, Oroville, with Pastor Randy McAllister officiating. A luncheon will follow after services.

The family would like to thank everyone for all of the prayers and condolences and many blessings during this time.

Please share your thoughts and memories by signing Sonny’s online guestbook at www.berghfuneralservice.com

Bergh Funeral Service of Oroville/Tonasket in care of arrangements.