Christina Michelle Lein was born on January 5, 1979, to George Lein and Julia (Jim) (Lein Wingert) Lange. She passed away on November 11, 2023. Christina is survived by her parents, two brothers, a sister, aunts and uncles.
Christina was developmentally disabled, and her level of disability was severe. Consequently, she did not have the opportunities in life available to most folks. She never attended college, never had a job or got married. But for those who came in contact with her and took time to get to know her, there were lessons to be learned. Those who knew her best came away with a deeper appreciation for many simple things in life. Things like getting up in the morning to see an amazing sunrise, enjoying a big breakfast and conversation with friends, the feeling of accomplishment that comes from completing a difficult task. Fun things like walking through a forest, or along a beach looking for shells, skipping, swimming, and playing with a dog. Even something as simple as wrapping your arms around someone very special to you and sharing a kiss. There was so much Christina never got to do, but it didn’t mean that she was any less of a person. Knowing Christina helped you understand how rich and full your own life was and at the same time helped you realize the importance of treating her and all individuals with love, dignity and respect regardless of their level of intellect. These are all lessons that Christina helped others understand.
Christina loved sleeping overnight at Grandma and Grandpa’s house, lively music, being outside, unusual sounds, lounging in her rocker-recliner, having people talk to her and having people love her for who she was. Christina especially enjoyed having her grandpa play the harmonica for her.
Christina’s parents and family loved her very much. She also found comfort with two loving foster families and the people in her group home who provided her with the love and care she needed. Throughout Christina’s life she taught the world unconditional love and was one of God’s special people.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday November 29, 2023, at 12:00pm at Wichmann-Tri County Chapel, 1592 S Oneida, Menasha. Friends and family may gather at the funeral home from 11:00am until the service begins. Christina will be placed at Riverside Cemetery, Appleton, near her grandma and grandpa.
Christina’s family wishes to express their profound appreciation to the nurses who provided hospice care and the employees of Thurke Group Home of North Fond du Lac where Christina was residing when her life drew to a close.
In lieu of flowers, please take a walk with someone you love, share a hug or a kiss, or do something unexpected for someone who crosses your path. In addition, the family would love to see a new forest of trees planted in her memory.
