Christian James Royston, most recently of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, passed away tragically on May 28, 2025. Born on June 29, 1998, in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, Christian lived a life defined by creativity, intelligence, quiet humor, and deep kindness.
As a child, Christian was quiet but had a sharp wit that could catch you off guard in the best way. He loved playing video games and organizing Nerf wars with his friends. A voracious reader from a young age, Christian’s love for stories evolved into a deep appreciation for anime and writing.
His artistic gifts were evident in his ability to draw nearly anything, and he never went far without one of his beloved Rubik’s cubes—solving them in under 12 seconds with ease. He shared his love of puzzles with his mom, often spending time together working through them.
Christian enjoyed a wide range of interests. He played baseball, soccer, and frisbee golf growing up, and he taught himself to play the guitar. He loved animals and had a special knack for cooking, often delighting family and friends with his culinary creations.
In high school at Roosevelt High School in Des Moines, Iowa, he was an outstanding student and a proud member of JROTC, where he rose to the rank of company commander. He also began working at Fareway grocery store during high school, where he became a trusted and dedicated employee.
Christian earned a full-tuition George Washington Carver Scholarship to Iowa State University, where he graduated in 2020 with a degree in Computer Engineering. Following the pandemic, he returned to ISU to pursue a second passion—sports journalism.
He thrived as a reporter and editor for the Iowa State Daily, creating podcasts and bringing sports stories to life with intelligence and flair. His internships with the Iowa Barnstormers and the Carroll Times Herald further showcased his skills as a storyteller and digital content creator.
In August 2024, Christian moved to St. Louis Park, Minnesota, with friends and began working as a chef at Kona Grill in Eden Prairie. He loved the creative outlet the kitchen provided and continued to hone his skills.
Christian was looking forward to moving back to Iowa in June to begin a new chapter with his girlfriend, Gloria Youngbear, and to launch his career in sports journalism—a future full of promise that brought him great joy.
Those who knew Christian remember him as thoughtful, smart, generous, and endlessly loyal. He was a loving son, a protective and kind big brother to Jackie, and a steadfast friend. He approached life with curiosity, care, and a quiet strength that earned the admiration of all who met him.
Christian is survived by his mother, Christy Johnston (and partner Todd Richards); father, Clint Royston (and stepmother Natalie Royston); sister, Jackie Royston; girlfriend, Gloria Youngbear; grandmothers, Elaine Haugen and Irene Royston; and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, stepfather, great-grandparents, and other beloved family members.
Services to celebrate Christian’s life:
Mass of Christian Burial: Thursday, June 5, 2025, at 10 a.m., St. Pius X Catholic Church, 3663 66th Street, Urbandale, Iowa. Reception to follow in the church hall.
Funeral Service: Friday, June 6, 2025, at 1 p.m., Polk City United Methodist Church, 1421 W Broadway Street, Polk City, Iowa, followed by a celebration of life from 2–4 p.m. at the church.
Christian’s light touched so many. Though his time with us was far too short, his memory will live on in every story he told, every meal he cooked, and every heart he warmed.
