Al Christianson, 71, formerly of Washburn, died in Tucumcari, NM on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. Celebration of life will be at the BSC National Energy Center of Excellence in the Bavendick State Room on Friday, April 26, 2024 at 2:00 PM. Visitation will be one hour prior.

Al was born on June 17, 1952 in Bismarck, ND to Kenneth and Lettie Christianson. He grew up in Washburn, ND. He was the youngest of three. Al graduated from Washburn High School in 1970. He then attended the University of North Dakota. After college, he returned to Washburn and worked as a Deputy for McLean County before starting his career in energy.

He married Pam in March of 1997. Al gained a son Kendall. He first met Kendall in October of 1996. Within six weeks Kendall asked "when do I get to call Al dad?" They were married for four years, spending these years in Washburn.

Al went on to marry the love of his life Jane in November of 2008, and gained a daughter Molly. They then made their home in Bismarck, ND.

He and Jane split their time living in Bismarck, ND and Queen Creek, Arizona.

He dedicated his career to developing the energy industry in North Dakota. Al cared deeply about the people he worked with and those in the industry. He joined Cooperative Power in 1977 and through 2007 he held various positions at Coal Creek Station in operations. In 2007, he joined the business development and governmental affairs divisions for Great River Energy until his retirement in 2022. During his career, Al led the development of the coal combustion products venture and was instrumental in the development of Blue Flint Ethanol, Dakota Spirit AgEnergy, Coal Creek Drying & Storage, Spiritwood Station, Spiritwood Energy Park, and Dryfining. One of Al's most passionate accomplishments was helping facilitate the sale of Coal Creek Station to Rainbow Energy Center.

Al, "Big Al", was a well-respected lobbyist and energy expert and known for his work in the fly ash industry. He had a talent for bringing people together and getting things done. You could always count on Al being early for every meeting or event. He was a pillar of the energy industry. Family was important to Al, he was proud to be a dad, husband, and brother; along with a great friend and mentor to many. His expertise, passion, dedication, and ability to pull people together will be greatly missed.

He served on many non-profit and energy boards throughout his life. Most recently, the Clean Sustainable Energy Authority, ND Renewable Energy Council, and Theodore Roosevelt Foundation. Al previously served as Washburn Mayor, American Coal Ash Association Chairman, Lewis and Clark Foundation Chairman, Western Region Ash Group Director and Midwest AgEnergy Group board member, Spiritwood Energy Park Association, and North Dakota Safety Council. Al was a proud charter member of Painted Woods Golf Course and served on its board of directors for many years.

Al is survived by Jane, Molly, Kendall, Alexis, and Chris.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Jane's parents, and special friends.

In lieu of flowers please send memorials to Furry Friends Rockin' Rescue, Painted Woods Golf Course or the Washburn Volunteer Ambulance Service in memory of Al.