Christine Joan Ritchie, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Gaylord, Michigan, on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at the age of 73. Born on January 31, 1951, in Bethesda, Maryland, Christine—affectionately known as “Chris”—was the cherished daughter of Larner and Joan (Friend) Peak. She spent her formative years in Wayne, Michigan, where she cultivated a deep-rooted commitment to family and community that would define her life.
A devoted mother of four, Chris faced life’s challenges with unwavering strength and grace. Her resilience and selflessness were evident in her dedication to her family, always prioritizing their well-being above all else. Chris found joy in the simple pleasures of life—savoring a warm cup of coffee, engaging in spirited games of euchre at family gatherings, and expressing her creativity through knitting and sewing heartfelt gifts and costumes for her grandchildren.
Chris was an active member of her community, volunteering her time at the Gaylord Eagles Club. She also enjoyed the occasional visit to the casino and the thrill of scratch-off tickets. A fan of classic cinema, she held a special fondness for the films of John Wayne, whose on-screen presence brought her great delight.
Her infectious laughter and warm presence left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Chris’s legacy of love and kindness continues to inspire her family and friends. She is survived by her children: Michelle (Jamie) Hicks of Gaylord, Sarah Ritchie of Gaylord, and Mary (Mike) Robbins of Rocky Mount, NC; her grandchildren: Devin (Anna) O’Rourke of St. Johns, Samantha (Tim) VanSickle, Jamison (Meghan) Ritchie, Morgan (Tony) Wescott, Jacob Ritchie, and Jaxson (Kim) Taskey, all of Gaylord, Brent Ritchie, and Kelly Rose Robbins, both of Rocky Mount, NC; several great-grandchildren; her daughter-in-law, Janet (Scott) Taskey of Gaylord; her brother, Matthew (Judy) Peak of Brighton; her sisters: Beatrice (Laurence) Long, Theresa Southard, and Lizabeth Peak, all of Gaylord; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Chris was preceded in death by her son, John Ritchie; grandson, Austin Ritchie; her parents, Larner Peak and Joane DeWaele; stepfather, Larry DeWaele; sister, Emily Thayer; and brother, Joseph Peak.
A celebration of Chris’s life was held on Sunday, August 11, 2024, at the Gaylord Eagles Aerie #1825, where family and friends gathered to honor her memory and the profound impact she had on their lives.
In remembrance of Chris, her family invites those who knew her to engage in the simple joys she cherished—whether it’s enjoying a cup of coffee, playing a game of euchre, or watching a classic John Wayne film—and to smile, knowing she is with them in spirit.
Memorial contributions to support the family can be made through the Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service.