Christine Genevieve Menk

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Christine (Chris, Chrissy) Genevieve Menk on August 7th, 2025.

Chris was born on September 17, 1966. She burst into the world as a joy to all, hit the floor running, and never stopped. After being introduced to sign language at age 6 as a component of her speech therapy program, Chris began checking out ASL signing books from the library (unbeknownst to anyone). The revelation of this manifested itself while the family was at church and noticed she was "waving her hands around with purpose" during worship songs. We found the books, and all realized that she was gifted well beyond what we understood, and singing with her hands.

Chris attended Lincoln High School in Lake City, Minnesota, with her siblings, and was awarded an honorary degree in 1986 alongside her sister Cathy. During high school, she was the manager for her sister Cindy's volleyball team. Chris also competed in swimming, track, and field Special Olympics, bringing home the gold many times.

She moved to Misericordia in Chicago, Illinois, where she fully integrated into their community as a waitress, painter, chocolatier/baker, member of the ballet troupe, and Christmas nativity set assembly team member from 1986 to 2006. She reached out to a family member and asked if she could move back to be with them. Chris moved in with her sister Cindy for a year, and in 2007, she moved in with her sister Cathy and their 6 kids becoming a loving family member until her passing.

Christine is most remembered for her total and unconditional love for everyone. She embraced life to the fullest, never looking back; always looking forward to the next wonder and adventure. Chrissy found great joy in all of God's furry creatures, and they flocked to her side, finding a kind hand and welcoming lap. She loved calling each of her family members on their birthdays and celebrating her birthday for 6 months every year. Chris enjoyed spending time with her entire family (local and distant) from the youngest great grandnieces, nephews, siblings, and her mom and dad.

Christmas was Christine's favorite time of the year. From the moment Christmas decor popped up to the middle of January (sometimes up to Easter), she was aglow. She kept the wonder of Christmas alive in everyone she touched. From the Santa story to the true meaning in our Lord's Birth ("Don't forget Baby Jesus!", she'd say).

While the spark of Chrissy may be leaving this world, the fire she lit in each person she encountered will live on. When you see a bright star on a cold Christmas Eve, remember, Christine is in the heavens celebrating the glory of the Christ Child, face-to-face with our loving Father and Holy Spirit. Welcome this into your heart, to warm you as one of her hugs. We love you, Chrissy, and look forward to being with you again soon.

Chris has found eternal rest before her father Charles G. Menk Jr, Brother Carl Menk, and Wife Robyn, Brother Charles Menk III and wife Kimberly, Sister Catherine Ballard and Husband Mark, Sister Cynthia Welker and Husband Michael, and extended family member and Brother in Christ, Daniel McKenzie. She was predeceased by her Mother, Carol Christine (Spittler) Menk. Chris was a devoted child of God. May her memory be a blessing as we carry forth her legacy of love, acceptance, and compassion in all that we do. Though departed from this realm, she now rests in heaven with Our Lord.

Visitations and Services:

The family will receive relatives and friends on Friday, August 15th, 2025, 4 PM to 7 PM at Hummel Funeral Home with a rosary at 6 PM, 3475 Copley Rd, Akron, OH 44321.

A Mass in Chris's honor will be held on Saturday, August 16th, 2025, 10 AM at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 44 University Ave, Akron, OH 44308.

Following the Mass, we will be celebrating Chris's birthday, so please wear your best (and brightest) party dress. Pink is her favorite!

The family will receive relatives and friends on Saturday, August 16th, 2025, 4 PM to 6 PM with a 5:30 pm memorial service at Mosti Funeral Home, 4435 Sunset Blvd, Steubenville, OH 43952.

In Lieu of Flowers:

Memorial contributions may be made in Chris's name to:

· SafeHaven Care Services, the address to send donations is 2098 Portage Rd, Suite 325, Wooster, OH 44691

· Crossroads Hospice & Palliative Care

Hotel near Cathy:

·Holiday Inn Express and Suites Wadsworth

Hotels in Steubenville:

· Best Western Plus Franciscan Square Inn and Suites, mention Menk Funeral to reserve one of the three blocked off rooms (First Come, First Serve)

· Holiday Inn Express & Suites Weirton