April 28, 1949 – January 4, 2026
Margaret A. Christensen, 76, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center in Mason City.
Memorial services will be held 10:30 Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at St. James Lutheran Church, 1148 4th Street SE, Mason City, Iowa, with Rev. Sid Bohls officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be directed to St. James Lutheran Church.
Margaret Ann Trebil was born on April 28, 1949, in Mason City, where she spent most of her life building a home centered on faith, service, and family. She graduated from Mason City High School and later attended Drake University. On December 21, 1968, she married Lynn Christensen in Mason City. Together they raised four children—Angella, Cheri, Veronica, and Chris—who were the heart of her life.
Margaret had a quiet way of showing up for people. She poured her time into the PTO, school activities, and community events, always ready to help where she was needed. Her faith guided her life, first as a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church and later at St. James Lutheran Church, where she supported youth programs and church ministries for many years. She also devoted countless hours to serving others through the Community Kitchen and volunteering at the hospital.
One of Margaret’s greatest joys was caring for people through food. She was a wonderful baker, famous among family and friends for her Christmas spreads. As her daughter lovingly put it, “You cook and bake for people—it’s how you show love.” That same generosity followed her to Shalom Towers, where she found another community and happily shared her baking and companionship.
Margaret was also a gifted crafter. Whether cross-stitching, sewing, or crocheting, she created with patience and care—and she delighted in teaching those skills to her children and grandchildren. She was protective, nurturing, and endlessly giving. Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart, and she never missed a chance to spoil them with homemade treats or thoughtful gifts.
Margaret had a gift for making the most of what she had and sharing it freely. In quiet, steady ways, she made life warmer for those around her.
She is survived by her children: Angella Malave of Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Cheri Christensen of Mason City; Veronica Christensen of Clear Lake; and Chris Christensen of Mason City; grandchildren: Aaron, Racquel, and Gabrielle Malave; Maya and Owen Justice; Spencer Christensen; Margaret Milano; Kalina Cole; Peyton and Briana Christensen; three great-grandchildren; along with many extended family members and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
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