Christine Gratz
June 04, 2018
Obituary
DARLINGTON, WI - Christine J. "Chris" Gratz, age 68, passed away into the arms of God Monday, June 4, 2018 at UW Hospital in Madison. Chris was born September 8, 1949, in Dodgeville, Wisconsin, the daughter of Harold and Eileen (Pickett) Barth. Chris graduated from Darlington High School in 1967 and later went on to receive a certificate in Nutrition from MATC in Madison.Chris was united in marriage to Charles "Chuck" E. Gratz on July 28,1973 at Darlington United Methodist Church in Darlington. Chris lived in Darlington most of her life. She worked as a dietician at Memorial Hospital of Lafayette County and later at Lands' End in Dodgeville for 25 years. Chris also co-owned and operated Wood Violet Floral Shop for a number of years with her friends, Mary Gould, Jeaneen Benson and Donna Marhee.Chris is survived by her best friend and husband, Charlie; her mother, Eileen Barth of Shullsburg, WI; her son, Jerry (Julie Meyer Wells) Prine of Madison, her daughter-in-law, Amanda Prine of Darlington; her very special granddaughter, Destiny Prine of Darlington; Christi Hansen, a very special person in Chris and Chuck's life, who is currently serving in the military; and two brothers: Steven (Christine) Barth of Carmel, CA; and Eric (Joan) Barth of Sauk City, WI; her niece and nephews, Thomas "TJ"(Stephanie) Barth, Heather Barth and Jeremy Brakke; her sister-in-law, Lisa Anne Crowley; many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Chris was preceded in death by her father, Harold; her son, Timothy Prine; and brother, Jim Barth.Chris was a member of Immanuel United Church of Christ in Darlington, its Women's Guild, and taught Sunday School. She was also a very proud member of Red Rock Homemakers. Chris loved to bake and entertain her family and friends. She enjoyed her Marten Dine-in and her Whine and Cheese get-togethers. Chris proudly hosted a rest stop annually for Toyota's Best Dam Bike Ride that benefited M.S. Chris' wonderful smile, thoughtful deeds, playful laugh, and orange chip dip will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by her family and friends.A memorial service will be held Thursday, June 7, 2018 at 11:00 A.M. at Immanuel United Church of Christ, 339 E. Louisa Street, Darlington with Rev. Barbara Brakey officiating. Friends and family are welcome to the visitation to be held Wednesday, June 6, 2018 from 4:00 until 8:00 p.m. and Thursday, June 7, 2018 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services at the church. The Erickson Funeral Home in Darlington is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com.In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Chris' name.
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Memories
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Marilyn Whalen
Other •
Chris was a great organizer, cook, and lovely person! She kept a beautiful home and was always in a good mood. I'll remember her layered sandwich she served at Spring Fling many years and how she was always willing to help make the evening special! My sympathy to the family.
T
TerryFox
Other •
Chris or Edwina as Tim had me believe was her real name for about a year always treated me like one of her own. She always knew exactly what to say and was always there for so many of Tim's friends. As adolescents we spent several nights a week at the Gratz house playing cards and what ever other mischief we could find, but it was always good clean fun. You will be truly missed Edwina. Give Tim a big hug for me.
HA
Holli and Alyza
Other •
Chris was an incredible lady who was always so kind to the kids and I! She gave the kids books from Grandma Chris when Alyza and Destiny went to Humpty Dumpty together! My heart goes out to the entire family! Hugs and prayers Amanda, Destiny, and Chuck! 💗🙏🏽💗A very special angel!
SC
Sue Cashman
Other •
I did not know Chris well until I joined her HCE group. She was so gracious and always was happy to see everyone. She was a wonderful cook and baker and always willing to volunteer to do more than her share. I want to express my sympathy to her family and especially her granddaughter, whom I know she loved dearly. She will be fondly remembered for her kindness and wonderful personality..
MH
Marion Howard
Other •
My sincere sympathy to all the family. Chris was a friend to all. She was such a talented lady. Anything she did was done well ( and if food, was delicious and beautifully served) . May God grant you Comfort and Peace. Marion Howard
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Summer Hamille
Other •
A bright light has been snuffed out leaving those of us who knew and loved Chris with only memories of her incredible essence. Chris was such a warm and elegant lady. There are no words to express my deepest appreciation for her staunch support and firm belief in my work -- training ballet dancers. She was taken from us much too soon, but her positive, upbeat disposition will never be forgotten and I shall always hold her dear to my heart. With sincerest condolences to her family.