Christine Patricia Cerise

Christine Patricia Cerise of Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, passed away on April 1, 2024, due to complications during her battle with leukemia. Christine, or Chris as her family called her, leaves behind a legacy of love, caring, and kindness that will forever be treasured.

Christine was born on June 17, 1968, in San Diego, CA, to Mike and Jill (Riddle) Walker. Mike and Jill instilled the warmth, compassion, and strength that endeared her with so many people. She remained very close with them, and with her brother Jeff, throughout her life.

Christine and her husband, Greg, met in 1985 while in high school in Phoenix, AZ. Together, they attended Northern Arizona University and were married on June 15, 1991. Christine was an exceptionally dedicated wife who provided unwavering love and support throughout all the joys and challenges that life brought.

As a mother, Christine poured her heart and soul into raising her children, Jessica and Alan. Everyone who knew Christine knew the kids came first. She was always available for them no matter the time or reason, providing comfort, guidance, or just listening. Her legacy lives on through them and the values they learned from her.

While her children were growing up, Christine found her life’s calling in education and worked most of her career at Del Cerro Elementary in Mission Viejo, CA. She was an exceptional teacher who touched the lives of countless students, earning a Teacher of the Year award. Her passion for education shined through in her tireless dedication to her students’ academic success and their development as people.

Christine’s list of friends is endless. Her engaging smile, genuine kindness, and compassion made it difficult not to love her from the moment anyone met her. Her presence brightened so many lives, and her absence leaves a void that can never be filled.

Though we cannot physically see, touch, or hold her, Christine’s spirit will forever live on in our hearts and memories.

A celebration of Christine's life will be held on May 4, 2024 at the Norman P. Murray Community Center, 24932 Veterans Way, Mission Viejo, CA. We invite all who knew and loved Christine to join us in honoring her life and the impact she had on all who were fortunate enough to know her.