Christine "Chris" Riopelle

In loving memory of Christine “Chris” Riopelle, a cherished soul who illuminated the lives of all who knew her. Chris was born on December 16, 1956 in McPherson, Kansas and passed away peacefully at home on September 21, 2026, after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer, leaving behind a legacy of love and joy that will be remembered forever.

Chris was the beloved daughter of Gerald and Virginia Cook, who preceded her in death. Her parents instilled in her the values of kindness and resilience that guided her path through life. She met the love of her life, Don Riopelle, at a New Year's Eve party. They forged a strong relationship, and were married on October 18, 1980, embarking on a beautiful love story that spanned more than four decades.

Chris was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She is survived by her beloved husband Don; her loving children Scott (Jenny) Riopelle, Tyler Riopelle, and Lisa (Blake) Brooker; her cherished granddaughters Emma, Allie, and Ivy Brooker, along with her bonus grandchildren Liam Ruff and Gianna Fakih. She also leaves behind her dear sisters Connie (Tom) O'Rourke, Barbie (Harry) Hinzmann, Patty (Mark) Flynn, Karen (Jarod) Lummen, and a host of other family and friends who will miss her dearly.

Her career began in 1976 when she became a nurse, dedicating her time to caring for newborns in the NICU. This nurturing spirit was evident in everything she did. Later, Chris chose to stay at home to raise her children, a role she embraced with love and devotion. In 2007, alongside her daughter Lisa, she returned to school and graduated with an Associate's degree, which launched a fulfilling career in medical coding. Chris retired in 2022, having formed lasting bonds with her Trinity coworkers.

Chris had an adventurous spirit and a zest for life. She loved being outdoors, traveling, and gardening. Her creativity shone in her hobbies, which included planning parties, writing poems, crocheting, painting cement statues, and most recently, diamond painting. Her greatest joy, however, was being a Nana to her grandchildren, with whom she shared endless smiles and laughter.

Her positive outlook and ability to adapt and grow endeared her to everyone she met. Chris always found something to smile about and was known for her ability to see the bright side of every situation, a testament to her indomitable spirit.

A memorial service celebrating Chris's life will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026 2pm until the time of memorial service at 4pm at Neely-Turowski Funeral Home 30200 Five Mile Road., Livonia, MI.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in memoriam of Chris. Suggested organizations close to her heart; National Down Syndrome Society and or Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research.

Chris's warmth, compassion, and love will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will forever be our sunshine.