Joseph A. Christman, 77, of Superior, died Saturday, January 14, 2017, surrounded by loved ones at Villa-Marina Health and Rehabilitation Center, Superior.

He was born May 19, 1939, in LaSalle, Illinois, son of Joseph and Grace (Stason) Christman.

Joe honorably served his country with the U.S. Army from 1958 - 1962.

Joseph Christman and Diana Hanson were united in marriage on August 28, 1987, in Duluth.

His work history included business owner, welder/fitter, and truck driver.

Joe was a very talented man and his list of interests was varied and numerous. He enjoyed boating, golfing, Lake Superior fishing, curling, running marathons and ultra-marathons, cross country skiing, dancing, playing guitar, singing karaoke, watching wildlife that visited his yard, drinking coffee with friends and family, roller skating, sky diving, helping at the Tri-State Speedway, cheering for the Green Bay Packers, and watching his grandchildren at sporting events.

Preceding him in death were his parents; sister, Joanne; nieces, Paula and Donna; and nephew, Don.

He is survived by his wife, Diana; children, Jeff (Nancy) Christman, Laura Christman, Jackie (Jim) Runions, Rob (Maria) Christman, all of Superior, and Julie Christman, Kentfield, California; 11 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren and 3 soon to be born; brothers, Dick (Jan) Christman, Pattison Park, and Bob (Lynn) Christman, Saginaw, MN; his previous wife and mother of his children, Joanne (Marv) Carlson; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and his dogs and cats.

Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, January 20, 2017, at Downs Funeral Home, 1617 N. 19 ^th Street, Superior.  The visitation will resume at 10 until the 11 a.m. service Saturday, January 21 ^st , at the funeral home. The service will conclude with military rites accorded by the Richard I. Bong American Legion Post # 435.

Should friends desire, memorials may be sent to Essentia Health-St. Mary's Hospice, 330 E. Second Street, Duluth, MN  55805.