Christina Ruth Cronquist Kelleher
March 31, 1951 - March 30, 2019
Christina Cronquist-Kelleher passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on March 30, 2019, one day prior to her 68th birthday.
Christina was born March 31, 1951 in Las Vegas, Nevada. She was raised by a single mother, Ruth Cronquist, who worked tirelessly as a seamstress to provide for her only daughter. Though she had humble beginnings, Christina only ever talked about the love and devotion she received from her mother and family. As a child she developed an overzealous love for animals. Her family often joked that she knew people by their pets. At 8- years-old, Christina saved all of her babysitting money and walked by herself from the Avenues to Trolley Square to purchase her first kitten, Chio. Over the years she owned many pets, and would often rescue animals in need that she would find on the street. She was a proud pet parent throughout her lifetime.
Christina graduated from East High School in 1969 and quickly began working. She held multiple jobs at a time from being a secretary for various trade unions, to production line labor at OC Tanner. In 1980 she met her husband, Bill, at a social gathering in Holladay and in 1982 they married. Bill and Christina quickly began a family and Christina gave birth to her first son in December 1984. A devoted mother from the beginning, Christina created her own cleaning business in order to spend more time with her children. She had a fierce work ethic and often told her children, “The only way to properly mop a floor is on your hands and knees.” It is no doubt her business was successful not only for her attention to detail, but also because she treated people like friends rather than clients. Though busy with her own business and taking care of three rambunctious boys, she never missed any of her boy’s wrestling matches or important events. Christina often said her boys outnumbered her, but her family says, in reality, it took a house full of boys to keep up with her.
In the later years of her life Christina faced many health challenges, but she did not allow them to slow her down. Christina’s neighbors and friends were an incredible support network to her and her family during this time, and she valued these relationships greatly. The support for her children never waivered during this time, as she continued to attended weddings, graduation ceremonies, and all important life events. Her family misses her deeply, and will be forever grateful for the lessons of hard work, fierce loyalty, and love that she taught during her lifetime.
The Kelleher family would like to thank the staff at University Hospital in Salt Lake City for their kindness and the incredible care they provided to Christina during her last days.
Christina is survived by her husband Bill, and sons Ryan (Jaime), Sean, and Michael, all of whom loved her profoundly. If you knew and loved Christina, we invite you to come celebrate her life in her honor on Friday, April 5, 2019 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Stark Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Guests are encouraged to use the complimentary valet parking on the north side of the building. To commemorate Christina’s vibrant and lively personality, we ask that guests wear colors to the wake.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Christina’s memory to the Humane Society of Utah.
In Loving Memory
I am crying so hard. What a sweet obituary. You describe her personality/spirit exactly. Those of us who knew Chris well, know that she had no enemies and quickly became friends with anyone she met. I have missed her for years as her health made it difficult for her to socialize; but I now feel an emptiness beyond words. I love you all!
Chris L Kamlowsky
Salt Lake City, UT
I knew from the first time we spoke that I was speaking to a noble spirit. She definitely had a way of making you feel special when she spoke to you. My heart felt prayers to Ryan and his family. Sincerely, ~Andrea
Andrea Cuellar
Elk River, MN
I did not know Chris well (she had been a neighbor of my sister), but she was a sweet & caring person. I was so sorry to hear of her passing & send my deepest condolences to her family.
Robin Cantrell
Morro Bay, CA
I have watched Chris grow up since she was a little girl. Ruth worked for my dad for years. At one point when Chris was young teen Shre lived with me for a short time. I lost touch when I moved to Denver, but I think of her often and she will always had a special place in my heart. I am so happy to hear that she was well loved by so many. My heart goes out to her family. Thank you for all the Love and care you surrounded her with.
Patty shapiro
Denver, Co
Bill, I am so saddened to read of your loss. Losing a wife, lover, partner seems about the cruelest thing that can happen to a man, but sometimes it is for the best if your loved one has lead a life of pain and suffering. I just went through this 3 weeks ago and knowing that my wife no longer suffers, somehow makes this whole crazy thing a little bit better. You never know how much you love someone until they are gone. Hang on to your friends and family, they will help you get through this. Michael Hill (Genesee Ave.)
Michael Hill
Heber City, Ut
Dearest Kelleher Family, My deepest sympathy on the passing of Christine, I am glad that she had such a wonderful life and loving family. I only knew Christine by taking care of her mother at St. Mark’s Hospital. Christine was always there at her mother’s bedside. She expressed how she always wanted to be a nurse, but I feel she did a great job raising her sons, managing a business and having a loving husband. She will be greatly missed, but rest assured she will be watch over her family from above.
Christine Akita Sulser
Salt Lake City, Ut
Dear Bill: I'm so sorry to hear of the loss of your wife Christina. When we last spoke, your deep love and admiration for her was very apparent. Sending you love and light. Shelley (Hilpert) Ebersole
Shelley (Hilpert) Ebersole
Salt Lake City, Ut
Bill, What a wonderful tribute to Chris! Neill and I loved watching the video and remembering both of you. Thank you, Bill, for your tireless service to Chris and great attitude about life and faith! Neill and I are in Portugal serving a mission. We wish we could be there to honor Chris! We will miss her! Love, David and Neill
David and Neill Marriott
nan, nan
Bill, I am so sorry for your loss words are never enough. It is a beautiful tribute not only to your wife but your love for her and the love of your boys.
Lynda Hill Parrish
Woods Cross, Ut
Bill and Chris, our lives are so much better for having known you. You both have been such good examples of selflessness, charity, strength in adversity, cheerfulness in pain and discomfort, and how to uplift those around you. Chris I can see you now running around, even dancing, and playing with your beloved pets. Condolences to those Chris leaves behind, but with such sweet memories. Love, Jeff and Ann Wiest
Jeff Wiest
Salt Lake City, UT
Bill and family, Lucy and I were so saddened to learn of Chris’ passing. Please accept our condolences and know how much you and the boys will miss her. Hopefully your memories of her sweet spirit and strong will can give you comfort and peace. We hope to see you soon. God bless the Kelleher family.
Bart Collard
Salt Lake City, UT
Dear Bill, I was saddened to see notice of Chris' passing. My deep condolences on your profound loss to ypu and your family. May you find peace and comfort at this difficult time, and beyond. God bless, Wendy Strong Deverall
Wendy Strong Deverall
West Jordan, UT