John E. Christensen, 52

Marlborough - John E. Christensen, 52, died suddenly at home Thursday, April 3, 2008 after being stricken ill.

He leaves his siblings, Bob Christensen and his wife, Barbara; Beth Thorpe and her husband, Dan; Peter Christensen and his wife, Annette; Mary Vautier and her husband, John; and Paul Christensen and his wife, Carolyn. He also leaves his nieces and nephews, Kim Stewart, Eric Christensen, Tanya Thorpe, Joshua Thorpe, Allison Cowdrey, Corey Vautier and Felicia Vautier; nine grandnieces and grandnephews; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

He was born in Marlborough, the son of John and Ellen (Loftus) Christensen, and was raised and educated in the city. He was well known around Marlborough as "Big John."

Mr. Christensen worked as a livery driver for the American Way Taxi and loved driving people around the MetroWest and Boston area. Previously, he had worked for many years as an attendant at Westborough State Hospital.

He was a member of the Marlborough Fraternal Order of Eagles #3565 and an avid Red Sox and Patriots fan. He was a very kind person who loved spending time with his family.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, April 12, at 11 a.m., in Evergreen Cemetery, Wilson Street, Marlborough. The John P. Rowe Funeral Home of Marlborough is directing arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to either the Marlborough Fraternal Order of Eagles #3565 Scholarship Program, 56 Florence St., Marlborough, MA 01752 or to the Advocates, c/o Dr. Weiss, One Clark's Hill, Suite 305, Framingham, MA 01702.