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Posted May 16, 2024 | 9:13 AM
It is impossible to sum up a long life lived within a paragraph or two. But Christine did live a long, full life filled with both challenges and victories, laughter and tears, and memories. Many, many memories. She was raised by hard working, loving parents in rural Kentucky and was the 3rd youngest of the Williams tribe of kids. As a young woman she moved to Nashville, Tennessee and started making her way in the world. She met her husband John while he was a paratrooper in the U.S. military, stationed at Fort Campbell, KY. Once married they moved to San Diego, California where they welcomed the birth of their first child, Deborah Lynn. A couple years later they made their way to Tulsa, Oklahoma and daughter number two, Robin Elizabeth came into their world. In 1959 the family immigrated to Ontario, Canada where John’s parents and siblings were living.
Over the years Christine worked for Ma Bell, American Airlines, the CIBC, and for several years co-owned The Hallmark Shop Antiques with her husband until his passing. She loved antiquing and it, along with gardening remained a passion for her until her final days. Christine was a devoted wife, a loving mother who always had wisdom to offer, though it wasn’t always heeded, a loyal dog mom, a news junkie who always kept abreast of world affairs, and an avid reader. Her body was failing her but fortunately her mind remained sharp and engaged until her passing. Of that large family of 10, Christine remained the final survivor. Her baby sister Lorene, left us just this past September.
In the grand scheme of time Christine’s mark on this world may seem small. But for those of us who knew and loved her she has left a profound, lasting impression that will remain in our hearts forever.
Christine is survived by daughters Deborah Ovens (Fred d. 2015) of Port Dalhousie, and Robin Eecloo of Campbellford, and numerous nieces and nephews throughout the U.S. including Mary Ellen, Everett, John Henry, Vernon, James, Barbara Jean, Janet, Barbara Ann, Jo Betty, Freddy Rae, Brenda, Susan, Cheryl, Cathy, Vickie, Johnnie and Steve. Predeceased by husband John Wesley Eecloo (1986), father Fletcher Williams (1974), mother Vallie B. Williams (1992), siblings Jack, Tude, Henry, Fred, Pauline, Billy and Lorene.
For any wishing to honour Christine, donations may be made to The Campbellford Memorial Hospital Foundation, The Bridge Hospice, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or an act of kindness to anyone in need.
Our deepest gratitude to Dr. Kelly Parks, all the caring and supportive staff at Campbellford Memorial Hospital, the dedicated and sensitive first responders who helped us, Home and Community Care and the support services they enlisted for mom’s comfort and care, and to the kind and dedicated PSW’s from Saint Elizabeth Health Care.
Fly free amongst those you love and have missed.