Christine Howitt

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Christine Howitt (formerly Wayne, née King), a beloved wife, mother, Nana, great-Nana, and dear friend. Chris passed away on October 7, 2026, at the age of 84, at University Hospital in London, Ontario, following complications.

Born in England on January 4, 1942, Chris came to Canada in 1967 and went on to build a beautiful life filled with love, kindness, and compassion. She had a special gift for making those around her feel valued, welcomed, and loved. Her warmth, gentle spirit, and beautiful smile brought happiness to so many, while her wonderful sense of humour could brighten even the most difficult of days. Chris touched the hearts of everyone fortunate enough to know her, and she will be remembered always for the love, laughter, and kindness she shared so freely.

Family was at the very heart of Chris’s life. She was a devoted and loving wife to her husband, Grant, with whom she shared 43 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, happiness, and countless cherished memories. Their love was a precious gift, and the beautiful life they shared will forever remain a treasured part of Grant’s heart.

Chris was also an amazing mother, whose love, kindness, and unwavering support meant the world to her family. She was someone they could always turn to for comfort, encouragement, and understanding. Her caring nature, unconditional love, and ability to find humour in life’s everyday moments made her truly special. She was a constant source of strength and reassurance, and the love she gave so generously will never be forgotten.

Chris will be deeply missed by her loving husband, Grant; her children, Karen Wayne, Paul Wayne (Megan), and Julie Brunn, whose beloved husband, Jay, predeceased her; and her stepchildren, Laurie-Ann Newman (Jeff) and Shane Howitt.

She will also be lovingly remembered by her sister, Jean Wikander, of New Jersey; her nieces and nephews; her beloved grandchildren, Christine Wayne, Justin Wayne, Kiaya Wayne, Quintin

Wayne, Aidan Brunn, Abbey Brunn, Rebecca Schnare, Amanda Runhart, Mathew Schnare, Alyssa Fournier, and Destiny Howitt; and her 12 great-grandchildren, who brought immeasurable joy and love into her life.

Chris will also be dearly missed by her extended family, including Gerri Howitt, whose beloved husband, Kenneth, predeceased her; Gail and William Stuckey; Betty and John Begg; and Peter Howitt and Lucia Aramini.

Though our hearts are broken by her passing, we are deeply grateful for the years we were blessed to share with Chris and for the countless memories we will cherish forever. The love she gave, the laughter she brought, and the kindness she showed will remain with us always. Although she is no longer by our side, her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and all those whose lives she touched. Her memory will continue to bring comfort, and the love she leaves behind will never fade.

Cremation has taken place, and a private celebration of Chris’s life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be gratefully appreciated.

Forever loved, forever remembered, and forever missed.

Until we meet again, my darling, you will always be in my heart. The world has lost one of the finest ladies I have ever had the privilege and honour of sharing my life with. You brought so much love, happiness, and meaning into my world, and I will be forever grateful for the 43 wonderful years we shared. The memories we created, the laughter we enjoyed, and the love we shared will stay with me for the rest of my days. You will always be a part of me, and you will never be forgotten. Until we meet again, my darling, you will forever remain in my heart.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Goderich Hospital and

University Hospital, London, Ontario for their care, compassion, and support during this difficult time.