Carol Jane Christensen

Carol Jane Christensen (née Bailey, formerly Baranick), beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and sister, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on September 23, 2025, at the age of 86.

Carol was born on November 25, 1938, in Little Falls, Minnesota, to Loren and Ella (née Pelkey) Bailey. She grew up in Fargo, ND and graduated from Shanley High School in 1956. She was first married to Gerald Baranick, with whom she shared four children: Doug, Sandi, Dennis and Susan. Her family continued to grow with the arrival of her cherished grandchildren: Tirisa Lather, Trey McGee, Bailey Agullana, and Micaiah Thornton; and great-grandchildren: Dakota McGee, Shad Lather, and Mason Lather.

Later in life, Carol found her soulmate in Duane Christensen, whom she married and lovingly referred to as the love of her life. Together they shared a deep bond, many adventures, and a rich life of companionship.

Carol had a brilliant mind and a competitive spirit, which she channeled into her passion for bridge. She was a proud and accomplished member of the American Contract Bridge League, where she achieved the prestigious rank of Diamond Life Master. Before her passing she was in the top 1.2% of the current membership.

She was preceded in death by her parents Loren and Ella Bailey; siblings Rodman Bailey, James Bailey, and Linda Bailey. She is survived by her loving husband, Duane Christensen; children Doug Baranick, Sandi (Doug) Bellner, Dennis (Ruth) Baranick, Susan (Mark) Thornton; grandchildren Tirisa (John) Lather, Trey McGee, Bailey (Nick) Agullana, Micaiah Thornton, Hugh Thornton, Kathryn (Fabian) Arias, Stacy (Brian) Bortel and Jeremy Bellner; great grandchildren Dakota Lather, Shad Lather, Mason Lather, Jacob Bortel, Ashley Bortel, Riley Bellner, Ethan Bellner, Fabi Arias and Xitlali Arias; siblings Larry (Carolyn) Bailey, Mary Ann (Don) Urness, and Darlene (John) Stafney; sisters-in-law Linda (Mervyn) Amodei, Beverly (Bill) Bliss and brother-in-law Ron (Marilyn) Christensen; and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 12:30 at Capital Church located at 2760 E. Fairview Ave, Meridian, ID.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Carol’s memory to the Idaho Food Bank, an organization she supported with great compassion.