McKNIGHT

Christine Mary McKnight of Duchess passed away at her home near Duchess, surrounded by her family on January 8, 2017 at the age of 85 years. Christine was born February 10, 1931, the daughter of homesteaders Hugh and Evelyn Nester. She was the youngest of seven children. She received her education at Pandora, Cessford and Hanna Schools. After finishing her education, Christine moved to Calgary and was employed with Neighbours drilling and once back in Brooks she worked with AGT as a telephone operator. She married Ken McKnight in 1954 in Calgary and would spend the next 62 years of married life working with Ken on the family ranch. These were humble beginnings but they worked hard and created a strong future and legacy for their family for generations to come. Christine was a courageous woman and was the anchor of her family; she will be remembered for her generosity, her deep faith and her diligence in all she did. She loved having people at her home and the ranch house was known as a refuge for those who often fell through the cracks of life. When you were with Christine you truly felt that you were the most important person of the moment. She loved conversations and learning about people’s lives. Christine was a talented musician and enjoyed playing piano. She loved having fun and the sound of her laughter will be deeply missed. Christine is survived by her loving family, husband Ken of Duchess and 3 children; daughter Jeanie Culligan (Jim) and their 3 children Ryan (Erin) and their son Kagan, son Scott (Laura) and their daughter Murphy, daughter Erin Roberts (Jason) and their children Allie and Ty; son Robert McKnight (Judy) and their 2 children; son Mike (Beth) and their children Presley and Darcy and son Steve (Erin) and their children Smith and Ole; son Pat (Nadine) and their 2 daughters Tatum and Krista; brothers Frank Nester sister in law Lilian Nester, Lou Nester (Doreen); sister Louise Berg and numerous nieces, nephews and other family members. Christine was predeceased by her parents Hugh and Evelyn Nester, sister Marion Schreifels and her husband Abe; sister-in-law Phyllis Nester; brothers Jack and Don Nester and brother in-law Glen Berg. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm at Thom’s Funeral Home and Reception Centre on Monday, January 16. In memory of Christine, if family or friend’s desire, memorial donations may be made to a charity of choice. For further information or to leave a message of condolence, please visit www.thomsfuneralhome.com or call (403)501-1010.