North Andover - David "Dave" Christensen SR, 96, passed away peacefully on April 4, 2026 at the Lawrence General Hospital after a long stay at the Andover Forest Rehabilitation Center. He was the beloved husband of the late Marian Christensen (Peavey) and a life-long native of the Merrimack Valley.

Born at home in Lawrence, MA, David was the youngest of 6 children. He attended St. Patrick Grammar School and graduated from Central Catholic High School in 1947.

For his entire distinguished career, David held senior management positions with the American Automobile Association (AAA) of Merrimack Valley. He was appointed Manager of Services of the Auto Club in 1958 and promoted to Executive Vice President in 1966. He served in that leadership role until 1990 when he was elected President/Treasure/CEO. He served in that capacity until his retirement in 1994. In his 38 years with the Club, he grew membership from 5,000 to over 135,000 and oversaw the opening of new offices in Lawrence, Lowell and Haverhill.

Dave was always active in his community. He was a dedicated member of the Kiwanis Club of Lawrence and served as its President from 1970-74 and as a Trustee for many additional years. He was past chairman of the American Red Cross-Greater Lawrence chapter (1973-75), past president of the Bon Secours Hospital Men's Guild and Director of the Holy Family Men's Guild. He was a member of numerous Boards in the Merrimack Valley and served on the Board of Directors of the Lawrence Boys' Club, and the Big Brother-Big Sister Association of Greater Lawrence.

He enjoyed international travel, cruising, and many vacations at the beach with his grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his loving wife of 69 years, Marian, and two of his sons-Michael and David JR.

David will be greatly missed by his family, Mary Christensen of Bradford, MA, Donna Dec of Weston, MA, and his son Donald Christensen of Lowell, MA as well as his three grandchildren- Jarod Christensen of Nashville, TN, Sarah Dec of Oakton, VA and Jonathan Dec of Newark, NJ as well as his great-grandson-Henry Garvey.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Michael Parish, 196 Main Street, North Andover,, MA.

Friends and guests are invited to call on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Conte Funeral Home, 17 3rd Street, North Andover, MA. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Michael Parish, 196 Main Street, North Andover at 11:30 am following the viewing. There will be a private Christian burial service at the Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in North Andover.