Family holds memorial service for Mitch & Sue Christiansen.
/ FOX21: Mike Duran
COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO. -- It has been an emotional week for the Christiansen family.
Former mayoral candidate, 64-year-old Mitch Christiansen and his wife, 62-year-old Sue, drowned in the reservoir at Eleven Mile State Park May 22. Sue was found near the couple's capsized boat, along with their two dogs that day. Mitch's body, however, was not discovered until Friday.
The family held a memorial service for the couple Tuesday morning. Nearly 100 people filled Eastside Christ Church in Colorado Springs to pay tribute to Mitch and Sue.
"Mitch and Sue stood for God, country, family and friends," one person said at the service.
Many wiped away tears during the memorial, but all joined in laughter as family shared fond memories.
"When [Mitch] looked at me, the first thing he said is, 'Are you a registered Republican?'" Brian Colinsworth, Mitch and Sue's son-in-law, said.
Some of Mitch's former competitors also attended the service. They spoke of the couple's patriotism to their country and their city.
"They're one of the great examples of American spirit," Colorado Springs mayor-elect Steve Bach said. "They were really kind people. Everyone's lives they touched will be enriched having known them."
Several who spoke expressed gratitude that Mitch's body was found so that he could rest in peace with his wife of 42 years.
"How understanding it is now, their departure together," a tearful Phil McDonald, a family friend and former mayoral candidate, said.
Mitch and Sue are survived by their two children and five grandchildren.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forKXRM