Christa Marina Richards
March 3, 1941 - December 1, 2012
Obituary
RICHARDS, Christa Marina, 71, long-time resident of Seattle, sadly lost her battle with cancer on December 1st, 2012. She passed away peacefully at her new home in Las Vegas with her family by her side.
Christa leaves behind her devoted husband William, and her daughter, Lena (Albert). In Germany she will be sadly missed by her loving sister Eva (Klaus) and brother Rainer (Irmtraud). She is also survived by three nephews, one niece, and their families. Christa was predeceased by her parents, Hubert and Magdalena Gansen, and her brother Peter. She will be sorely missed by many dear and devoted friends both here and in Europe.
Christa was born on March 3rd, 1941, in Dillingen, Germany. An exceptional pianist and piano teacher, music was her life, and her greatest joy was to share that gift with everyone. One of her most memorable achievements was a solo piano concert at the Cornish College of the Arts. She had so much love for her “Granddog” Mischa, one of her favorite companions! Mischa brought her so much happiness. She also worried about every bird in the yard – making sure they had enough to eat and drink! She taught all of us to not take life for granted, and to fully enjoy even the simple things in life! She was a warm, loving woman who always had a smile, and a contagious laugh.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be given in Christa’s memory to the American Cancer Society.
On Tuesday, December 11th, a memorial service will be held at 10AM at Saint Alphonsus Church. At 12PM a burial processional accompanied by the Ballard Sedentary Souza Band will occur at the Crown Hill Cemetery. Christa’s Celebration of Life Reception begins at 1PM at Ray’s Boathouse.
Miss you so much Mom! I love you so much! I know you’re looking down on us from heaven.
Christa was both my piano teacher and my childhood best friend’s mom. She was loving, had a lot of energy and a great laugh. She will be missed.
You are missed so much, Christa! I will never forget those days when my sisters and I would go to your home in Ballard and play with the German Shepard and have fun at the beach. Your spirit will forever carry on through the lives of all the people you’ve inspired and spread love & joy to.
Ich hoffe du bist jetzt auch mit deiner Familie zusammen mit Peter und deinen Eltern. Vielen Dank für die schöne Zeit mit dir und die vielen Telefonate. Danke auch für deine Hilfe für Peter.
Heike
I only had the pleasure of meeting Christa on two occasions, the first time during Lena and Alberts wedding. The second time I spent an afternoon at the family’s Las Vegas home. I will never forget that afternoon. Christa and I stood by the pool watching Mischa and laughing and bonding over our love of “good German dogs” as she put it.
Your joyous spirit here on Earth will sorely be missed. Although we’ve only been around each other a few times, you made a wonderful impression on me. You love and compassion lives through Lena and all of the others you’ve touched. God bless you and keep you. In Christ-The Gilderhus Family
Christmas was always a special time when you would play the piano and we would all sing Christmas songs.
Sorry we’re not there personally to share in your great loss and to contribute to any solace we may have. Christa was a wonderful woman, a gifted talent, but more important, a treasured friend. The future without her will be bleak and we pray for the family and the extended family to have the strength and resilience to weather this difficult time. We hold you in our prayers and remain available to provide any assistance needed Sadly, Connie & Art Carter
My prayers are with the family at this difficult time. Christa Richards was always spoken of highly by her daughter Lena, and the few conversations that I had with her were always warm and pleasant.
I am so sorry for this loss and I know that her spirit lives on in a better place where she can rejoice and watch over her loved ones.
Christa was my piano teacher all through middle school and into high school. I will never forget her kindness. Prayers to Lena & family.
Dearest Lena, I just heard you lost both your parents this past month and I’m so very sorry. Though I did not get to know either of them, I got to know you at the UW. If you are any indication of who your parents were, I’m sure they were peopl that we wished we got to know. Know our prayers and thoughts are with you during this extremely difficult time. Blessings~
Remembering you on the 2 month anniversary since you left us. I will strive to carry on your love of life, and warmth and compassion within my spirit, and share this with everyone everyday. Thanks for everything Mom! I love you and miss you so much!
Your Daughter,
Lena
Christa ~
I will always remember your smile & laughter, so many holidays spent together throughout the years. You were always so kind to us children. Thank you for being the bright star in Grandpa’s world. You are missed & loved. ~ Cheryl