Closen Francis Christian Jr.

Closen Francis Christian, Jr., 86, of Eugene, passed away at home in Eugene on February 26, 2023.

Closen was born on March 24, 1936, in Crescent City, California, to Closen Christian Sr. and Georgene Leishman Christian. The family lived in several logging camps before finally settling near Finn Rock, Oregon, in the early 1940’s. Closen attended Springfield High School, graduating in 1954.

Closen married Lydia Anderson in 1955, and together they raised three children in the Mohawk Valley east of Springfield, Oregon.

Closen established Future Logging Company in Springfield in 1970, after service in the US Navy Seabees and work for Weyerhaeuser, Christian Logging and Oliver Logging. He became a pioneer in the timber industry by starting and perfecting a new way of logging called Skyline Thinning. He was an extremely hard worker, very innovative, and was willing to take many calculated risks to grow the company.

In 1993 Closen married Margaret “Marge” Vogel. They enjoyed their time living close to the McKenzie River and made many good friends. Closen was a proponent of the greater McKenzie Valley community, developing the Inn at the Bridge and the Holiday Farm RV Park. Closen and Marge were blessed to enjoy almost thirty years together. Closen enjoyed horses, fishing, drift boating, vintage cars and the outdoors.

Closen lived a full life and had a positive influence on many people along the way. He exemplified community service through his involvement with meal delivery, lending a helping hand wherever he could, and contributing to numerous projects and organizations including the McKenzie River Guides Association. Closen had a special relationship with his grandchildren. He was a man of character, generosity, and a deep love for his family, who treasure many great memories.

Closen leaves behind his wife Marge of Eugene; sister Betty (Glen) Cutler of Albany; sons Rick (Darci) Christian and Jim (Heidi) Christian both of Springfield; daughter Amber Patterson of Pleasant Hill; seven grandsons; one granddaughter; and one great-granddaughter. Closen also leaves behind two step-daughters, Chris (Jerry) Edwards and Carol (Jeff) Schrantz; as well as four nieces. All miss him dearly.

A public celebration of Closen’s life will be held at Calvary Open Bible Church at 1116 Centennial Blvd. in Springfield at 1:30 pm on Friday, March 10. Remembrances may be sent to Meals on Wheels of Lane County or The Eugene Mission. The family will hold a private burial. A float down the McKenzie River in Closen’s honor will happen sometime later in May.

Funeral arrangements provided by Musgrove Mortuaries & Cemeteries.