Christena Alice Cassidy

Christena Cassidy, a truly remarkable person, always living “on the go” was a powerful overcomer. Nothing stopped her from making the impossible happen. Chris was able to pack more fun and activity into her 93 years than imaginable. Her friends most often commented about her incredible laugh the smile that lit up her face.

Chris went from being a shy quiet teenager to the life of the party as a young adult. Mike, attracted in part to her high energy, asked her when she was 23 years old, to be his life partner. They were married in 1955 and remained devoted to each other throughout their marriage of 54 years.

Our Mom was completely devoted to us and became our fiercest advocate. Many of our successes are the result of her encouragement. It was her goal to introduce us to all that life could offer including both travel and sports. Family time was bountiful and there were many trips to Florida, the ski hill and the lake, which created wonderful memories for all.

One of Mom’s favourite places was the cottage in Muskoka. She taught most of the kids in the cottage bay to swim. She spent endless hours taking us all waterskiing on those hot summer days, and when it rained our tiny cabin would be filled with the neighbouring cottage kids for snacks and afternoon games. Similarly, in winter, she often packed us along with our friends into her old Rambler and trucked everyone off the skating rink.

We all know Mom wasn’t perfect. Her driving was a bit scary and Dad use to shake his head saying that she had everything she needed just to live in the car, but nothing stopped her from making every day an adventure. Many thanks to Mom’s friend, constant companion and partner in crime “Marie” for often being the voice of reason as together they raced off on each new spontaneous escapade.

At 45 Chris mastered courses and certifications allowing her to pursue her combined passions of being with people and having fun. She worked daytime at the pool with those with special needs, and evenings/weekends as a professional clown for birthday parties and church events. It was a common sight to see her driving on the 401 in full clown makeup heading out to a party of some kind.

Chris’s retirement became a life of service. Almost daily, she visited her own Mom and her Mother-in-law at the nursing home during their final years. When Dad’s health declined she spent hours driving across the city to Mississauga and then later travelled on the subway to the lakeshore so she could be with him every day.

Mom loved the old Hymns, constantly humming them as she went about her day. A devote church goer, she and Dad both ensured we had every opportunity to meet Jesus and get to know him. Throughout her life she remained in constant prayer for both her children and grandchildren. She leaves a rich heritage of for those who come after her.

Facing countless challenges in her 93 years, our Mom met each one with unwavering resilience. Her inner strength, tenacious spirit and ability to overcome inspired us all. Loosing a family member is never easy but we had Mom with us for a lifetime and are rich with the memories we built with her.

Christine leaves behind 3 children, 7 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. She will be greatly missed.

If Mom’ was here to say good bye she would remind us,

Enjoy every moment of life,

Forever pursue God,

Always pray and never give up.

The family would like to extend a our sincere thanks to the staff at the Pines, especially those front line workers who showed such love and care for Mom keeping her safe and comfortable in her final years of life.

We would be pleased if you would take a moment to leave a comment or memory about Mom on the memory page found on this site.