CLEAR LAKE, IOWA — Theodore “Ted” Hartz Christensen, 84, of Clear Lake, a longtime Iowa educator and coach whose passion for learning continued throughout his life, passed away peacefully Thursday, August 27, 2026, at Oakwood Care Center.
Per Ted’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Services will be announced at a later date.
Ted was born October 6, 1941, in Waterloo, the son of Holger and Mary Jane (Hartz) Christensen.
He graduated from Clear Lake High School before attending Mason City Junior College, graduating in 1961. Ted continued his education at the State College of Iowa, now the University of Northern Iowa, where he eventually earned his master’s degree.
Education became one of the defining themes of Ted’s life.
He spent 27 years teaching and coaching at high schools in Ventura, Spencer and Manson, working with generations of Iowa students and athletes. Wrestling held a particularly important place in his coaching career, providing another avenue for Ted to teach perseverance, discipline and the value of hard work.
Ted later continued working in education as an adjunct professor at both the junior-college and university levels.
His own education never really stopped.
Ted continued taking college courses in communities including Ventura, Spencer and Mason City and, even in later years, participated in lifelong-learning classes through North Iowa Area Community College.
Away from the classroom and wrestling mat, Ted enjoyed writing.
He participated in writers’ workshops in Iowa City, wrote poetry and enjoyed recording observations about people and life. He also wrote his own autobiography, preserving memories and experiences from throughout his life.
Ted was remembered for maintaining a positive outlook and appreciating the people and experiences that influenced him.
He enjoyed watching comedies, writing, learning and spending time with people he cared about.
His family includes daughters Abigail (Greg) Hohensee, Ginny (Lane) Gunderson and Emily (Chad) Rubner; six grandchildren, Taylor (Dusten), Paige (Zak), Trevor, Logan, Tyce and Marlee; brother-in-law Paul Young; nephews Craig (Ari) Andersen and Eric (Chris) Andersen; niece Tina Andersen Wahlberg; cousin Bob (Teri) Elsbury; and many friends.
Ted was preceded in death by his parents, Holger and Mary Jane Christensen, and his sister, Rosemary Jaytanie.
Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel in Clear Lake is caring for Ted and his family. To view the funeral home’s complete tribute and future service information, please click here.
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