Christine Becker

Christine Becker (Nee Stransenback)

December 5, 1945 – March 13, 2025

Christine Becker, 79, left this world on March 13, 2025 surrounded by her loving family. Born on December 5, 1945, in Wenona, Illinois—a place that always remained close to her heart—Christine lived a life defined by love, kindness, and devotion to others.

For 56 years, she was the beloved wife of Walter, building a beautiful life together. She was a devoted mother to the late Laurie (Brett) Baker and Susie (Jim) Piko, and the proud and loving grandmother of Alex, Emily, Meredith, Katie, Jimmy, and Molly. Chris was the treasured daughter of the late Lowell and Ethel (nee Hoarty) Stransenback. Christine was also a cherished sister to Janet (Jeff) Sunken, sister-in-law to the late Sharon (late Lawrence) Olles, Ann Brown, and Joan (late Mark) Richard. She was a loving aunt and dear cousin to many. Chris’s friendships were abundant and rich, touching countless lives with her warmth and generosity. She never forgot a birthday or anniversary. Her radiant smile and enveloping hugs will be missed by so many.

Chris proudly remembered her small-town roots when she left Wenona for Illinois State University and eventually Chicago. She and Walt have maintained their connections and friendships celebrating their lives at family reunions, dinners at Mona’s, and snow bird get-togethers with fellow Wenonans in Florida.

A passionate and dedicated teacher in Chicago Ridge School District 127.5, Christine was deeply committed to her students, fostering a love of social studies and reading. Her impact in the classroom extended far beyond academics. She cared for her students completely and was the recipient of the Accommodations Award for making her students seen and heard.

Christine’s kindness, wisdom, and gentle spirit will be dearly missed by Susie, Jim, Brett and her grandchildren who knew her completely, and whom she knew completely. She attended their games, events, and performances. She knew their friends and teachers. She played countless games of UNO with them, prepared their favorite foods, and tirelessly dedicated herself to their table manners and posture. Her love and legacy will live on through them.

Chris’s Catholic faith and her marriage to Walt were the foundations of her life. She was a dedicated wife and loyal confidant. Their friendship began in first grade and St Mary’s school and turned into love later as adults. Chris wrote Walt a letter every day he was in Vietnam, and they have stood side by side as husband and wife since 1969. Likewise, Walt stood by Chris’s side when she needed him most – as always, he was her rock.

They happily raised Laurie and Susie together in the southwest suburbs until they became empty nesters and began travelling. Walt and Chris enjoyed local food and culture and met lifelong friends along the way. Their home was cozy and loving, a welcoming bastion to any weary soul in need of love and encouragement, and Chris was the heart of the home. She was adored and will be missed.

Chrissie’s favorite charities are cancersupportcenter.org and mobilecarechicago.org.