Christine Marie Schmidt

Christine Marie (Abben) Schmidt, age 71, passed away on October 24, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family, after a long and hard-fought battle with metastatic cancer.

Christine was born on August 13, 1955, in Albert Lea, Minnesota, to Leland and Betty Abben. On May 15, 1976, she married the love of her life, Duane Schmidt, at First Lutheran Church. Together, they built a life centered on love, family, and the memories they made along the way.

She faced her battle with cancer with strength and determination, fighting hard through a journey that was anything but easy. Through it all, she remained the vibrant, bold, and spirited woman her family knew and loved. Though her battle was long and difficult, it will never define her life. She will be remembered for the love she gave, the joy she brought to others, and the unforgettable spirit that made her who she was.

Our Mom had a zest for life that was impossible to miss. Her bold personality, lively energy, and warm presence made her unforgettable to those who knew her. She enjoyed listening to and singing music, camping, traveling, bird watching, and watching scary movies. She had a way of bringing her own special spark to every moment and every gathering, leaving lasting impressions and memories wherever she went.

Above all, Christine cherished her family, and her grandchildren were truly her darlings. They held a very special place in her heart and brought her immeasurable joy. She treasured the time she spent with each of them, and the love she had for them was unconditional. She also deeply valued time with her children and especially looked forward to weekends spent with her siblings, sharing laughter, stories, and the special bond only family can bring. Her family was her greatest treasure, and the memories they created together will be cherished forever.

She will be deeply missed by her beloved children, Michael (Nikki) Schmidt, Sarah (Brad) Sistek, and Jeremy (Regina) Schmidt; her cherished grandchildren, Kayla (Aidan), Haylee, and Abby Schmidt; Jackson, Alivia, and Aubrey Sistek; and Wesley and Arlo Schmidt; and her loving siblings, Barbara (Wayne) Morfitt, Garry Abben, and Jane (Wayne) Beighley. She also leaves behind many other dear family members and friends whose lives were made brighter by knowing her.

Christine was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 44 years, Duane Schmidt; her sister, Lori Lobb (Abben); and her parents, Leland and Betty Abben.

Though our hearts are broken by her passing, we are forever grateful for the love she gave us, the memories we shared, and the countless ways she made our lives better simply by being our mom, grandma, sister, and friend. Her vibrant spirit, unmistakable personality, and deep love for her family will live on in each of us. While we wish we could have had more time with her, we will carry her love with us always. She will forever be our mom, our grandma, and one of the most special parts of our lives. She will be loved, remembered, and missed more than words can ever express.

A memorial service will be held at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, October 30, 2026, at Bonnerup Funeral and Cremation Services, with visitation beginning at 2:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery.