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Christine Hartwick Obituary

HARTWICK - Christine Rita (nee Brinkworth) May 30, 1955 - September 27, 2008, passed away after a courageous fight with cancer. She is survived by her husband, Patrick and two children, Allie and Jonathan. She was a wonderful Elementary Special Educator at Windom Elementary School in Orchard Park for the past 10 years. A Memorial Service will be held at St. Pauls Lutheran Church, 53 West Falls Road, West Falls, NY at 11 AM on Saturday, October 4, 2008. The family would wish that donations be made in her name to New Hope for Cancer at www.newhopeforcancer.org

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Published by Buffalo News on Sep. 28, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Christine Hartwick

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Brian Tower

August 30, 2018

Rest in peace Christine. You are deeply missed.

Brian Tower

August 29, 2018

I recently heard that Christine had passed away. I knew her when we attended Edinboro State College. I was a member of Sigma Tau Gamma fraternity and Cricket was a member of Alpha Gamma Delta sorority. I know this very late but I want you to know that she was one of the kindest,sweetest and loveliest ladies I have ever known. I am honored to have known her.

Mike & Lee Buccilli

October 16, 2008

Pat,Allie and Jon,
Mike and I will miss Christine, I will
miss her and I having very long talks
on the phone or just laughing about
nonsence. Her smile lite up the room and she was always there to cheer you on in what ever you try to do. She will always be in
our hearts and prayers
Mike & N.Lee Buccilli

Janet Collins Jordan

October 12, 2008

Dear Gerry, I cannot imagine a world without Cricky in it. My years at ACHS were so filled with fun and laughter with Cricky and Linda. We did not keep in close touch over the years but at every reunion we would find eachother and pick right up where we'd left off. Time and distance never diminished the love & affection. She will forever be "one of my best friends" for the four years we were joined at the hip. She was always unapologetically her own person and never afraid to be that - an unusual trait in adolescence. You raised a strong and confident woman and must be so proud. I will pray for you to have strength to get through this agony now. Love, Janet Collins Jordan

hells helen poummit Curhan

October 8, 2008

Dearest Brinkworth and Hartwick families...
My deepest and warmest hugs full of love go out to you all.. I spent great moments of my youth with Cricky, from swim team to afterschool fun..we laughed and laughed and had so many fantasatic times together during out Amherst days..I was so saddened to hear of her passing..after I had recently had the most vivid dream of Cricky... Her presence in my life will forever be a fond memory!!! I send much love to you all...always, Hells Helen Poummit Curhan

Jeff and Denise(Petro) Lewellyn

October 7, 2008

Dear Gerry, Pat, Allie, and Jon,
Again, please accept Jeff's and my heartfelt prayers and hopes for your strength as you all move forward now. As was evidenced at her memorial service, Cricky's positive, uplifting, loving influence is so very widespread in our world---what a legacy! I remember, as a college freshman, being so in awe of her! There was always something very unique about her: her confidence, her wit, her sense of adventure and fun, the way she carried herself with such grace and certainty. I've been so blessed to have been one of the many on the receiving end of her genuine caring and encouragement when I've needed it over the years along with her vibrant enthusiasm for all things, big and small. Cricky and I shared our intense fascination with the "Wizard of Oz"---I think of her every time I watch it and hear her hilarious imitations in my mind and just LAUGH! But, to quote a dear character from the movie: "I know I have a heart--- because it's breaking". I will really miss her. God Bless you all in your journeys.

Mary Bailey

October 6, 2008

Dear Pat, Allie, Jon, Brinkworth and Hartwick Families,
Cricky was an incredible person who will be sadly missed by all who knew her. I will forever cherish the times spent with her and your family. There are so very many memories...good times at Edinboro State College, our Roomie Reunions at Findley Lake, our Roomie slumber parties in Erie. Cricky taught me so much. She never judged others and treated everyone with respect. Cricky inspired me to be a better person, to forgive, to love, and to "enjoy" life. My life has been enhanced for having known Cricky. We are so very sorry. Our thoughts and prayer are with you all.
Mary and Gordon Bailey

Doni Browne -73

October 6, 2008

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, ""I welcome you.""

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......""My day was not in vain.""
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008

Michael and Cathy Blattenberger

October 5, 2008

Pat, Allie and Jonathan, There are no words that any of us can say to express our sadness at the loss of your dear Christine. We were so lucky to have her star shine upon us and teach us all the meaning of life, love and laughter. We will miss her wisdom and sense of style and class and the way she made all of us feel special for who we were. Our love, sympathies and many prayers.

Suzy Rutherford

October 4, 2008

Dear Pat, Jon, and Allie,
I'm so very sorry to hear of Cricky's passing. She was truly a great lady. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Barb (Pinkerton) Sekel

October 3, 2008

Pat, Allie, Jon and Brinkworth family; My deepest sympathies to all of you for the loss of one of the most special people that God placed in my life. I had the 'gift' of being Cricky's Alpha Gamma Delta Sister-Daughter ('little sister") at Edinboro University. My heart and mind are flooded with so many memories of all our time together. She gave me never ending love, encouragement and support, and FUN TIMES! Her motto was to "ENJOY" ! My prayers for all of you (and us that mourn her loss) is that we all continue to be inspired by Cricky and ENJOY every moment and create wonderful memories. I know that Cricky has brightened the lights of heaven.
(My love and sympathies also go to Cricky's college roommates and our AGD sisters - Val, Denise, Mary and Desiree)

Denise Iles (Taylor)

October 2, 2008

I am so sorry for the loss of Chrissy. My prayers are sent forth for her family and friends at this time and forever. May her life be an inspiration and a divine memory to all.

Sue Marshall Dowd

October 1, 2008

Dear Hartwick and Brinkworth Families: I am so sorry to hear about Cricky's passing. It is very sad. She was such a wonderful part of our class of '73. We had great times, because of Cricky....beautiful smile and a great sense of humor. Love, Sue Marshall Dowd

Paul Spencer

October 1, 2008

Patrick, Allie & Jonathan. I am So Very Sorry for your loss. I was So saddened to hear about Christine. I grew up just down the street from her, through our school years. She was always nice to me and I liked her. My prayers are with you. Paul Spencer

October 1, 2008

Hartwick and Brinkworth Families,
We are so sad to hear of Cricky's passing. She was truly one of the best of the best of '73. Her smile and laughter was contagious. What a beautiful woman. Our prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Mike & Sue Miano

Suzanne Hoak

October 1, 2008

Dr. Hartwick, Allie, and Jon,

My sincere sympathy at the loss of your beautiful Christine. The challenge will be to wake up every day and make it count. The goal will be to live the life she would have wanted for all of you. The reward will be to feel her smiling down on you as she watches you through every problem or roadblock on your path. I am so sorry for your loss.

Josestte Sfeir

October 1, 2008

There was no one funnier than Christine.. I lived around the corner from she and her family.. I would walk to Amherst High School and their lovely mother who drove them would pick me up along the way! May your laughter shine upon us. Our deepest sympathies to your family.

mark tipple

October 1, 2008

Cricky was both beautiful inside and out.....she was one of the brightest stars of our class.....she will truely be missed

Terri (Brennan) Campbell

October 1, 2008

Dear Hartwick and Brinkworth families,

How lucky we are to have lived in the time that Cricky did! I last saw her at an ACHS '73 reunion years ago and, although we were all a little older and wiser, she was no less funny and sincere and caring.

She lives on in us. Our hearts are her home.

Adriane Williams

October 1, 2008

Pat and family, I'm sorry to hear of your loss. May God comfort you and your family during this difficult time.

Nick & Monica DiPirro

September 30, 2008

Our sincere condolences to the Brinkworth & Hartrick families who we have known and loved for many years. No one should have suffered like Cricky. She was a beautiful person, inside & out. We loved her so.

Terri Fitscher

September 30, 2008

To the families of Brinkworth/Hartwick,

I had the pleasure of knowing Cricky both personally and professionally. She was truly a beautiful person both inside and out. She was always so kind to my entire family. I also worked with Cricky for a short period of time and found her to be the consumate teacher. I'm so sorry for your loss. Cricky and your family will remain in my thoughts and prayers.

Carl Hartwick

September 30, 2008

Pat,John and Allie
We are deedly saddened for your loss and we will keep you and in our thoughts and prayers. The loss of a family member is a heart felt loss to all.
Carl and linda Hartwick

Dale & Cindy Drabek

September 30, 2008

Pat, Allie and Jonathan,

I am so sorry on the loss of your wife and mother. I babysat Jon & Allie in my home as very young children, they were a part of my family for those years as well as Pat & Christine. I am truly sorry for her passing - she was so young and beautiful. She taught me many things over the years especially about paper plate crafts. I have so many memories of all of you. Allie & Jon's first day of school, summer vacations, walks to the library - going over to your house on Girard for ice cream, Halloween parties when Christine dressed up too etc. My love and prayers to all

Teri Joyce

September 30, 2008

Dear Trick,

I was shocked and am so saddened by your family's tragic loss. My deepest sympathy; you are, as always, in my thoughts, heart and prayers.

Sarah Budney

September 29, 2008

Teaching creates bonds that last a lifetime. It creates bonds with the staff, parents and students alike. This gift came as a natural talent to Chris, we all admired her for that. Chris touched every life with the gifts that she possessed; wife, mohter, sister, daughter, teacher and most of all friend. No matter who you were, Chris treated you with the same love, respect and kindness.

I still look across the hallway and can imagine hearing her great laughter; just the sound of it would make smile and made me remember all of the things in life to be grateful for.

With every good cup of tea or discovery of a "hidden chocolate" stash, Chris will be with us! We will all greatly miss her at Windom Elementary.

Ross College of Education

September 29, 2008

The faculty, staff and students of the Ross College of Education, Lynn University, Boca Raton, Florida extend their heartfelt condolences to the family of our Dean Patrick Hartwick, upon the passing of Christine.

Nancy Bonarowski

September 29, 2008

Dear Pat,
I was shocked and saddened to hear of your wife's passing. I remember meeting her at Dr. Fox's party while I was in the Special Ed. grad program at Daemen. I lost my husband 16 years ago and I can really empathize with your pain. My prayers are with you and your family at this time. God bless.

Patricia Francoforte

September 29, 2008

Teaching with Chris was a gift. She loved children and her encouragement to young and old alike was such a blessing. I will always remember her for her beautiful spirit, faith, and love of chocolate. She is now in her true home.

Barb Ernst

September 29, 2008

To the Brinkworth Family:
I remember Cricky from High School, especially our crazy pranks in Home Ec. She was absolutely one of the most beautiful girls in our class. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time.

Kelly O'Brien

September 29, 2008

Dear Pat, John and Allie,
I am very saddened by the news of Christine. I worked with her at Casey Middle School and she made such an impression on me. She was a remarkable person with wit and charm. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Kelly O'Brien

Pam & Pete

September 29, 2008

Why are the truly beautiful people always taken too early? Chris was a sweet savior who 8 years ago started my son on a path of success. Without her he probably would not be successful in school. Without her encouragement, I would not have returned to College for teaching. We owe her so much so our heart breaks for her family. The world was a better place with her in it. Our most sincere condolences...

Alan Giangreco

September 28, 2008

To the Hartwick/Brinkworth Family

I have known Cricky since high school and it saddens me deeply to hear of her passing. Such a beautiful lady with great wit and a wonderful sense of humor. My deepest condolences.

Alan A. Giangreco
Nashville, TN

Patrick & Joyce Pelosi

September 28, 2008

Dear Patrick, Please accept our sincere condolences upon the passing of your wife Christine.

Mary Bentley-Schlager

September 28, 2008

To the Brinkworth family, my deepest condolences to you all. It was such a shock to hear of Cricky's passing... My prayers are with you and the Hartwicks in your time of grief.
Mary Bentley-Schlager

William Hartwick

September 28, 2008

Pat, John and Allie,
We are all indescribably sorry to hear of Christine"s passing. We will miss her laughter and sense of humor.Her absence will leave a large gap in our family constellation. She will be dearly missed and thouht of fondly.
Deepest sympathy from Bill, Chris, Kristie and Erik Hartwick.

Carolyn (Demming) Lynch

September 28, 2008

To the Brinkworth/Hartwick Family: I was very sad to hear of Cricky's passing. She and her sister Wendy were wonderful people. They befriended me as a young adult and always made me feel very special. Every time I hear a Hall & Oates song, it makes me think of them. I am truly so very sorry.
Carolyn Lynch

Anne Marie Hanlon

September 28, 2008

Dear Pat, Jon and Allie,
Chris was such a special, wonderful woman. I worked with her and I will deeply miss our conversations. She loved to share stories about her kids! She was warm, funny, and beautiful inside and out. She taught me so much and was always cheerful, supportive, and kind. Your family is in my prayers.

Patrick Bleekman

September 28, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Ann Rossiter

September 28, 2008

Pat: Mike and I are so very sorry to learn about Crickey's passing. The picture of her, Jeannie, Mike and me is still on my refrigerator from the last time we all were together at the Weber's in 2002. She will be sadly missed. We plan to attend her memorial service next weekend.
With deepest sympathies, Ann and Michael.

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