Christine R. Seiler

Christine “Chris” Seiler peacefully departed this world on July 12, 2023, in Pearland, Texas.  

She was born in Chicago, Illinois, on December 21, 1943, to proud parents Canellis “Charles” and Belva Bakirtjy. She brought joy and laughter into their lives from the moment she arrived. 

Christine was married to her high school sweetheart, Walter Michael “Mick” Seiler, Jr. They shared 45 beautiful years together, filled with laughter, companionship, and mutual support. 

The first two years of their lives together they lived in the Seattle, Washington area where Mick worked for Boeing. After the birth of their daughter, they moved back to Chicago to be near family and friends. A few years later they had a son. Christine treasured her role as a mother. Her two children, Cathleen and Mike, were a constant source of pride and joy in her life

After their children were both in school, she went back to college, enrolling at Concordia Teachers College. Three years later she completed her degree and started teaching in the Missouri Synod Lutheran school system. During her career, she was called to serve at St. Philip, Our Savior, and St. Andrews Lutheran Schools.

As a teacher, preschool director, and elementary school principal, Christine dedicated 25+ years of her life to shaping young minds and made a profound impact on countless students and colleagues. Her passion for learning, commitment to excellence, and unwavering dedication will forever be remembered by those whose lives she touched.

In 2021, Christine moved to Pearland, Texas to be closer to her daughter’s family. She spent the last two years making friends and becoming an active member of her new community. 

Christine had a contagious zest for life and a love for travel. Her vibrant spirit and social nature made it easy to make new friends, and her infectious laughter and warm smile brightened any room she entered. She cherished the company of family and friends; her gatherings 

were filled with love, laughter, delicious food, and meaningful conversations.

Faith in Jesus Christ was the cornerstone of Christine’s life. Her strong belief carried her through difficult times, provided comfort during moments of sorrow, and reminded her how blessed we are during the countless wonderful moments she experienced. Her devotion to her Christian values was evident through her actions and the kindness, compassion, and empathy she extended to everyone.

The memory of Christine Seiler will forever remain etched in our hearts. Though we mourn her loss, we find solace in knowing that she now rests in the arms of her Heavenly Father, reunited with her beloved husband and surrounded by eternal peace.

She is survived by her two children, Cathleen Morton and Mike (Melinda) Seiler, her grandchildren, Jenny and Travis Morton and Larissa Seiler, her brothers, Gerry and Larry (Dottie) Bakirtjy, nieces and nephews, Dana, Wynn, Reed, and Nicole Bakirtjy. Christine is preceded in death by her husband, Mick, parents, Charlie and Belva, and son-in-law, Scott Morton.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to National MS Society, Park Ridge St. Andrews Lutheran Church, or the Pearland Epiphany Lutheran Church Building Fund in Christine's name.

In this time of profound grief, may we find comfort in our shared memories and in the knowledge that Christine's spirit will continue to guide and inspire us. Please join us in celebrating her life and sharing the love and joy she brought into the world.

A memorial visitation will be held at Ryan-Parke Funeral Home on September 15th from 4-8 p.m. A lying in state will take place on September 16th at St. Andrews Lutheran Church, (260 N. Northwest Highway, Park Ridge). From 10-11 a.m. funeral service to follow at 11 a.m. 

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Romans 8:38-39

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