Christine Alexis Button (née McKenzie)

May 7, 2024

In loving memory ~

After a meaningful life full of joy and love Christine Alexis Button (née McKenzie) died peacefully on her own terms on May 7th, at home and surrounded by family.

Independent, self-assured and highly capable from a young age, Chris grew up in Powell River where she loved riding her bike, figure skating, roaming the backcountry solo with her dog, camping, and lifeguarding.

Chris was a natural counsellor, and spent multiple years as a residence don while pursuing her degree at the University of Victoria because she enjoyed helping first-year students find their way. She carried on selflessly helping students, friends and extended family deal with personal development and challenges for the rest of her life.

During her teaching career in the Campbell River school district, Chris taught at many schools (Central, Robron, Southgate) mainly as a math and science teacher. She endeavoured to make learning fun and accessible to all students and led epic field trips such as the human body vs roller coaster experiences at Playland. She was constantly reading and learning to satisfy her curiosity in a wide variety of topics, which she loved to discuss with others and share her vast knowledge.

Her greatest joy was her family: her 28-year marriage to loving husband Richard (Dick) who predeceased her in 2001; her two wonderful children, Diane (Dave) and Karen (Chris); and especially getting to be Nana to adoring grandchildren Noah, Emily, and Ian. As Auntie Chris, she played a special role in the lives of each of her numerous brothers, sisters, nieces, and nephews.

Chris' life revolved around service to others: family, friends, school (CPF) sports (swim club) groups and so many more. After retirement, she also led her strata council and joined Altrusa to help extend her service to the community.

When not consumed by service she would dive into creative pursuits like painting, quilting and singing. She thoroughly enjoyed being a member of the Threshold Choir and Sing for Pure Joy Choir and was able to sing with her friends right to the end. She never missed a chance to enjoy time in nature and loved walking with her friends. Her confident, adventurous spirit led to interesting experiences in retirement, and she enjoyed many journeys across the globe including Alaska, Turkey, the Mediterranean, the Orient, Antarctica, and most recently a family retreat to Hawaii.

Throughout her life, when faced with change or tough times Chris approached each turn with calm, intellectually founded optimism and grace. For all of her adventures, all she really needed to be happy was a hot cup of coffee and someone she loved to enjoy it with.

Chris' Celebration of Life will take place at 11 am, Tuesday, May 21st, 2024 at the Maritime Heritage Centre, 621 Island Highway, Campbell River, BC, V9W0B7.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Dying With Dignity Canada or Campbell River Literacy Association.