La Riviere, Christina (Chris)
CHRISTINA (CHRIS) LA RIVIERE
Christina (Chris) La Riviere aged 96 years of Moose Jaw, SK, passed away quietly on Monday, June 12th, 2023. Chris was born on November 26th, 1926, on her family homestead outside of Biggar, SK to William Julius and Emma Julia Desborough, who emigrated from Cambridgeshire, England in 1913. Chris and her younger sister Helen were raised on the family three-quarter section where they grew wheat and oats, and raised horses, cattle, chickens, turkeys, and pigs. Chris loved animals and could often be found singing to the piglets. Chris attended the Alert school, in the winter her primary mode of transportation was a pair of skis. She later attended Thorton High in town. Chris worked for SaskTel in Biggar, North Battleford, and Maple Creek before settling in Moose Jaw. Chris married Wilfred La Riviere and together they raised their children: Bob (Gail), Diane, Julia, Nancy (Mike), and Julius on South Hill. She was predeceased by her husband, Wilfred (1973); sister, Helen (2013); and two daughters, Diane (1956) and Julia (1957). In 1983, after 37 years, Operator 17 retired and hung up her headset one final time. During her golden years Chris enjoyed garage saling. She drove a large LTD car that she, several friends, and her granddaughter would cruise around town in style, delivering eggs and finding treasures. Chris taught cake decorating for the South Hill Community Association, and lead both the Widows Fellowship and Weight-Wise clubs. She volunteered alongside her granddaughter with the Tele-Friend program for the former RQHR Health Region until she moved into a care home in 2017, where she later became president of the Moose Jaw Extendicare Resident’s Association. Chris was a very proud grandmother to: Sarah (Derek), Joel (Laurel), and Emmett (Jocelyn); and great-grandchildren: Asher, Isabella, Ayden, and her namesake Christina. Chris cultivated many deep friendships throughout her life. She was known for her loyalty and devotion to her friends and family. She always saw the best in everyone, including her four-legged family members, even during the moments when no one else did. “Thank you, Grandma, for your unwavering belief in me, especially during the times when I didn’t believe in myself, your faith in me has always given me courage and has meant the world to me.” Special thanks to the staff at Extendicare for their kindness and care. A Graveside Service will be held on Saturday, July 22nd, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. in Rosedale Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Chris’ name may be made to a favourite charity of one’s choice. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Cara Ashworth -Intern Funeral Director 306-693-4550
So sorry to hear of the passing of your Mom. I remember her fondly. Love and hugs to you all during this most difficult time.
Sorry for the loss of a great women
i will miss her
My deepest condolences on the passing of your mom, Nancy. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Sincere sympathy in the loss of your mom, grandma and friend. A Beautiful Soul, may she Rest IN Peace.
Many a cake was enjoyed by the Heming family over the years , decorated beautifully! We never saw Chris without a smile! Rest in peace !
So sorry to hear of her passing. My condolences to the family. She was a special lady and will be truly missed.
I was very sad to learn of your mom’s passing Bob. My condolences to you, Gail and your family.
My Mom ( Ruth Anderson) worked with Chris at Sasktel and remained friends after retirement , enjoying different outings to garage sales and farmer’s markets. As with many families, Chris decorated many cakes for birthdays. My girls would come up with some creative idea for a cake – always sure “ Chris could do it” . Condolences for your family .
Lois,
Thank you for sharing your memories. I really enjoyed reading them. Grandma would make my birthday cakes, I remember she made on for my preschool class and I felt so special my grandma had made it for us to share.
To Julius and family my sympathy to all . I had maybe meet your mom a couple of times when I attended Riverview with Julius and she was very pleasant Greg Nicholls.
Thank you Greg for the kind words. Thanks to all who the time to leave a message.
Condolences Julius and family.
Very sad to here the passing of my, Aunt Chris . She was an amazing women . Sending love and prayers too my family at this time. Her niece Cindy and great niece Ashley .
Christine was a wonderful women with a generous soul. I am a old friend of hers- I will never forget her.
Nancy , Bob and families I am heartbroken to learn of Chris’s passing . She was a joy to take care and will be greatly missed.