Obituaries

Christeena (Chris) Ball (Nee Vernie)
September 25th, 1952 – July 1st, 2024

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Christeena Ball, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother. Predeceased by her parents Jim and Alice Vernie, Chris, as she was affectionately known, touched the lives of many with her warmth, generosity, and vibrant spirit.

Chris leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering strength. She will be deeply missed by her husband of 51years, Jim; her children, Lenna (Mark), Kevin (Cindy), Daron, and Aaron (Jacki); her cherished grandchildren, Alexis, Nick, Dylan, Abbi, Chase, Cruze, Tucker, and Breeze; and a host of relatives, friends, and colleagues whose lives she enriched with her presence.

Born and raised in Selkirk, Manitoba, Chris married her husband Jim in August 1972. Shortly thereafter, she embarked on her journey as a psychiatric nurse, graduating in 1974. For nearly four decades, Chris devoted herself to the Selkirk Mental Health Center, where her empathetic care provided solace and healing to many. Even after retiring in 2013, Chris continued to return casually, not just for the work but for the joy of being with her colleagues, helping others, and earning extra money to spoil her grandchildren.

Chris’s journey into motherhood was marked by unwavering love and devotion. Her children, Lenna, Kevin, Daron, and Aaron were her pride and joy. She reveled in every moment spent with them, supporting them wholeheartedly in their own journeys of parenthood.

Chris’s talents extended far beyond her nursing career. She was a natural salesperson and skilled artisan. She delighted in creating beautiful gift baskets and renowned dishes such as her famous pizzas, French onion soup, chicken scampi, and Halloween favorite candy apples to name just a few! Her parties were legendary, bringing joy and laughter to countless gatherings. Chris’s generosity knew no bounds; she volunteered tirelessly to support hospital patients in need and was always ready to lend a helping hand.

An avid traveler, Chris cherished exploring tropical destinations like Hawaii and the Caribbean with loved ones. In earlier years and having top sales in companies such as Coppercraft and Michelle Lynn Jewelry home sales, Chris won the opportunity to travel to many other international destinations. At home, she found peace and joy in her pool and hot tub, and also enjoyed immersing herself in her novels while relaxing with her dogs. She delighted in shopping for and spoiling her family, especially her cherished grandchildren, whom she adored with all her heart.

A Come & Go Tea to celebrate Chris’s life will be held on Friday, July 19th, from 2 to 4pm at The Selkirk Golf and Country Club, 100 Sutherland Ave, Selkirk, MB. Please join us as we remember and honor the extraordinary woman who touched so many hearts.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to “Before the Bridge Senior K9 Rescue,” a cause very dear to her heart.

“Though her smile is gone forever and her hand we cannot touch, we shall never lose sweet memories of the one we loved so much.”

Rest in peace, dear Chris. You will forever live on in our hearts.