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Christine Leroueil Obituary

Comme un oiseau, le soir, Christine est retournée à son nid . CHRISTINE REED CLARK LEROUEIL JULY 31, 1952 - JUNE 3, 2005 Our beloved Christine died after her valiant and courageous struggle against melanoma, the same disease that took the life of her father last October. She faced tremendous odds from the beginning, enduring difficult treatments, side effects and setbacks. Yet that's not her complete story and certainly not the defining chapter. She was born in Richland, Washington on July 31, 1952 to Leslie and Patricia H. Clark. Ambitious from the beginning, Christine set off on what would be an adventure of the heart and mind. She attended Kelso High School where she graduated as the class Valedictorian. A Weyerhaeuser Merit scholarship winner, she graduated from Whitman College in Walla Walla, WA. Choosing teaching as her life's vocation, she was a role model to her students and an inspiration to her fellow educators. She loved all things French, and introduced many a student to the joys of its language and culture. Christine will be greatly missed and will be treasured forever for her unwavering devotion to her family and her infinite love for teaching. While she was only limited to 52 years of life on this earth, her legacy will endure in the many lives she touched. She is survived by her cherished husband of thirty-one years, Pierre, whom she met at the Pax Christi conference in Strasbourg in 1973 while on her junior year abroad. The tall blonde managed to lure the dark-eyed Frenchman from his homeland to a life on the other side of the Atlantic. She is also survived by her daughter Pascale, son Marc, mother Patricia Clark, brother Douglas Clark, sister-in-law Dr. Shu-Ming Wang, and sisters Karen and Stephanie Clark. Preceding Christine in death were her son Pierre and father Leslie. The family would like to express its appreciation for the wonderful care our precious Christine received from the oncology/radiology staff at St. Francis Hospital including Drs. Senecal, Kasubhai, and Badiozamani. A special thanks and heartfelt gratitude to all of the Franciscan Hospice House nursing staff who helped us get her through her final difficult days with dignity and grace. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made in her name to Franciscan Hospice House, 2901 Bridgeport Way West, University Place, WA 98466, 253-534-7000. Services will be held at Christ Lutheran Church, 2501 320th Southwest, in Federal Way at 11:00 am, Wednesday, June 8th, followed immediately by graveside services at Mountain View Cemetery in Auburn. Bonney-Watson of Federal Way is handling the arrangements, 253-839-7317. We encourage all who knew Christine to sign the online guest books at thenewstribune.com and bonneywatson.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by News Tribune (Tacoma) on Jun. 5, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for Christine Leroueil

Not sure what to say?





Samantha Phillips

March 7, 2006

I met Mme Leroueil at Lakota Junior High my Freshman year, just having moved from Kent Junior High, I was lost, confused and in deparet need of some help, and she was the only person there that decided to help me. After that we became more of friends than a teacher student relationship, because i never had the honor of being a student of her, other than that of language. I know she has been gone a while now, but i had a lot to say, and needed time to organize myself and to compose what I really wanted to say.

Mme Leroeil was a fine lady, exactly that a Lady, a Madame, and I loved her dearly, and saddly wish I had gotten to know her better. I know she will forever be in all of our hearts, and stay with us forever.

Thank you for ever and always for what time we had!

Sami~

Jamie Neshera Jones

November 5, 2005

It seems only yesterday when I was going to Sacajawea Jr. High and Federal Way High School with Pierre. I remember the fateful day that changed our lives forever. My heart went out to the Leroueil family then, especially Pierre's mom, who I knew must have been hurting during that time. Although I had never met her, I felt especially close to Mrs. Leroueil then. A few years later, I was filled with joy looking through the Whitman College look book and discovering that Pierre's little sister was attending my alma mater. Tonight when I read the Whitman magazine, I discovered that Pierre's mom died, well before her time. I cannot explain or understand the incredible sense of loss I feel over the death of Pierre's mom, a woman whom I have never met. As I wipe my tears, I only hope that the Leroueil family knows that my thoughts and prayers are with them during this time.

Jessica Marshall

July 4, 2005

Mrs. L was the teacher everyone wanted. She taught not only French but she also taught us about life. I learned a lot from her example and from her experiences throughout her life. She is the best teacher I have ever had in my life! I have gotten the chance to know her better these past few months. I must say she is the strongest person I have ever known. My prayers are with her family and those who loved her dearly.

Tom, Pam, Tommy & Nicholas Orr

July 3, 2005

Madame was not only an inspiration to our son Tommy but to the entire family. We appreciated her willingness to challenge her students with an AP course, and her efforts to personally buy the best books for them. Her willingness to share her heroic trials in life was an inspiration to all of us!! May she rest in peace through the mercy of God.

Jean-Christian Cousin

June 22, 2005

Le fait d'avoir appris de le décés de Christine m'a vraiment retourné. Elle qui pendant quelques temps a fait office de maman pour ma soeur et moi meme lors de nos voyages a Seattle.

Son voyage avec les élèves de sa classe en France l'année dernière a permis à mes parents de rencontrer cette dame qui aimait temps la France, qui avait beacoup de projets pour ces élèves qu elle aimait temps.



Je souhaite a toute sa famille le courage dont ils ont besoin.



Bye bye

Jean

Naillon Rémy

June 20, 2005

Bonsoir Pierre,







Il est 21h10.



C’est avec un vif chagrin que nous venons vous adresser ces quelques mots de consolation et c’est dans l’affection que nous éprouvons pour vous tous que nous puisons le courage nécessaire pour vous adresser ces quelques lignes. Nous ne trouvons pas de mots pour rendre exactement ce nous pensons et ce que nous éprouvons de douleur en songeant a Christine.







Nous voudrions clore ces quelques mots, d’ailleurs nous nous sentons que le courage de vous embrasser affectueusement.







Sincères condoléances











Rémy, Sarah, leurs enfants, Denis Anne, Marcel, Madeleine, Patrick

Gerry Inman

June 17, 2005

I knew Christine from the 1960's. She was a wonderful person and my first cousin. She will be greatly missed.



Gerry Inman

Ashley Simmons

June 15, 2005

Christine-

Growing up being kind of a part of of your family was always nice, getting in trouble with Marc or just hanging out eating all that delicious french food...MMmmm. I've been there through a lot of ups and downs. I remember in 9th grade when I had you for French, you would get so irritated with me, since I had known you since I has like 2 and came over to your house everday, I didn't take homework to seriously. Haha Sorry! I still only remember the naughty bad french terms Marc taught me. haha! You were an awesome teacher, if I wasn't so hard headed and had such a lack of attention I'm sure I wouldn't of gotten a "C" haha, I know you did a great job with all your other students. I'm glad that I was blessed with growing up with your kids. I sponsored your guestbook so it can bee online for another year today, It always helpful and clarifying to a family to read so many loving stories. You will be missed deeply!!! Je t'aime!!!

Ashley Simmons

June 15, 2005

Christine-

Growing up being kind of a part of of your family was always nice, getting in troble with Marc or just hanging out eating all that delicious french food...MMmmm. I've been there through a lot of ups and downs. I remember in 9th grade when I had you for French, you would get so irritated with me because since I had known you since I has like 2 and came over to your house everday, I iddnt take homework to seriously. Haha Sorry! I still only remember the naughty bad things Marc taught me. haha! You were an awesome teacher, if I wasn't so hard headed and had such a lack of attention I'm sure I wouldn't of gotten a "C" haha, I know you did a great job wih all your other students. I'm glad that I was blessed with growing up with your kids. I sponsored your guestbook so it can bee online for another year today, It always helpful and clarifying to a family to read so many loving stories. You will be missed deeply!!!

Fr. Richard and Lilah Asmussen

June 12, 2005

Our hearts are with you, Pierre, Pascale, Marc and all of Christine's family. We pray God's grace and peace will sustain you through this time. God's blessings.

Pierre Lerouel

June 10, 2005

The Lady’s Journey



In a letter that she wrote to “Everyone” during her illness, Christine presented a synopsis of her life, the life of a Lady who had her share of grief and pain.



I would like to share with you her story.



In the letter, Christine refers to herself as the “Lady” going through life.



Thanks God! She starts on a happy note!



“Once upon time, she says, a Lady fell in love with a Frenchman and was very happy.”



That’s make me feel good!



However, just a few years after her marriage, “bad luck” as some would say, struck the Lady.



She had two miscarriages; the second one almost killed her as it was an ectopic pregnancy.



While her chances of getting pregnant again were seriously compromised, the Lady gave birth to her first son, Pierre, in 1978. She called him a “miracle baby”.



In the following years, two more children, Pascale and Marc, were born. However, in 1984, while pregnant, the Lady was struck with a melanoma, which fortunately was controlled through surgery.



In 1995, the Lady was diagnosed with another cancer, Hodgkins disease.

While in treatment, the Lady’s first son, the miracle baby, was killed in a car accident.



The death of the Lady’s son broke her heart figuratively and literally – for she had a heart attack.



Somehow, the Lady survived, even though she was not really sure she wanted to.



She went on to teach, to pass along to the students, her kids as she called them, the love she had had for her departed son.



She loved the students and the students loved her!

She was happy to work with them. The students and her two kids were her pride and joy. She was happy and successful.



But, three months ago or thereabout, the Lady fell sick again.



What was thought to be an eye infection turned out to be another cancer, another melanoma, a resurgence some say, of the first melanoma.



Biopsies and scans showed that the cancer spread throughout her body: brain, liver, intestines, bones, all over.



Three months of agonizing physical and emotional pain started for the Lady.



On this new and unexpected journey, the Lady knew that she was facing death. However, while wishing to stay with her family and friends, the thought of dying did not sound all that bad. After all, the Lady would see again her son she had not seen for 9 years. She would also see her dad who had died a few months earlier from the same illness.



In the Lady’s words, “The idea of heaven did not sound half-bad. She had gone through hell already”



On June 3rd, following a couple weeks of great discomfort and pain, the Lady passed away.



Wonderful people, physicians, nurses, counselors, pastors, priests, chaplains, friends, students, teachers and family members did everything they could to let the Lady die in dignity and with minimal discomfort and pain.



In the name of Christine I want to thank everyone.



In the letter that she wrote to “Everyone”, the Lady left us with an advice that she put into practice in her own life.



“Tell, she says, your family and friends you love them. Show them that you do. Never take them for granted, for you never know what tomorrow may bring. Life can change in the blink of an eye. Trust me – I know.



Love to you all,”



Christine.

Laura Swindlehurst

June 9, 2005

I knew Mrs. L to be an amazing woman with an enormous heart and a passion for teaching that was a great inspiration to her students. I was very sad to hear the news of her passing and my heart goes out to her family and friends.

Danielle Weaver

June 8, 2005

Mrs. L is the best teacher I have ever known. She combined patience, love and understanding in her teaching and cared for each student as if they were her own. I am so blessed to have had her in my life, and I will always remember her. I hope she knew how much each and every one of her students loved and respected her. Mrs. L was truly a beautiful person and will be missed tremendously. My thoughts are with the Leroueil family.

Ann Kormos

June 8, 2005

Christine was a huge part of the Decatur High School community. She was a very active and involved teacher in her classroom and in the school. Her students reflect a great love for her and are truly very saddened at her passing. My husband served a year in Iraq and Christine would ask me how I was doing. She would give me childcare advice for my little daughter who was born when her father was deployed. This is just one personal example of her care for her fellow teachers. Christine will be missed!!!! My prayers are with her family. Psalm 23. God bless you and strengthen you all.

Mike Lewis

June 8, 2005

Mrs. L was a great teacher and will really be missed. Her humor is what I will miss the most. She had plenty of funny stories and even taught us a few french words that were funny, like grand tetons. She will always be remembered here at Decatur.

Sharon Stenersen

June 8, 2005

It is a celebration to have known and even briefly worked with Christine as a fellow educator. She clearly loved people of all ages, her Lord, and her work. The connection she made with others leaves a positive impact on our lives. I send sympathy especially to her family and closest friends.

Tim Takechi

June 7, 2005

Mrs. L has been my teacher since I was in 8th grade. She taught me to love the French language and pursue learning it to my full potential. This year she challenged a select few of her students with whom she had the most confidence in to take the French Advanced Placement test. It was a struggle, it was hard, it was time-consuming. But, if it weren't for her love and passion for her students, I would not have been willing to take this challenge. However, because Mrs. L. trusted us and had full confidence in us, I trusted her in return to take us on this voyage. We will miss you, Mrs. L.

Jim and Mary Tynan

June 7, 2005

Christine will be missed by all of us who knew her. She was a devoted mother and wife. Mary knew her as a gifted French and computer teacher who was totally committed to her students. We will always remember the wonderful French dinner Christine and Pierre hosted several years ago for Pierre's team members from Weyerhaeuser. The joy they shared made the evening a memorable experience. Our sincere sympathy to you, Pierre, and to your family. Fondly, Jim and Mary Tynan

Larry & Margie Knutsen

June 7, 2005

Pierre,



We are very sorry to hear of Christine's passing.

Vicki Ennis

June 7, 2005

I am very saddened to learn that your beloved wife has lost her battle with cancer. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this most difficult time.

Marie jose LEROUEIL

June 7, 2005

Christine tu nous a quitté, mais tu laisse un grand vide, nous oublirons jamais notre sejour aux etats unis en 1997, nous avions ete recu comme des rois, maintenant il nous reste notre album photos pour nous retrouver et se rappeler des bons moments. jean, virginie, stéphane, ma mère et moi nous t'envoyons plein de baisers

Jim Watson

June 7, 2005

Pierre, very sad to hear about your wife. You and your family are in my prayers.

Jessica Marshall

June 6, 2005

Mrs. L was an amazing person! She has made such a big and positive impact on my life. However, I have only known her for two years. But, I have gotten the chance to get to know her even better these past few months. I love her dearly and I will miss her so much! She has always been my favorite teacher and she always will be! She has been and always will be an excellent roll model for me. She has such a big heart and I know that she loves each and everyone of us and I admire her for all the love and care she gave to us as her students. I will never forget her! She will be deeply missed and I know she has a special place in everyone’s hearts that she has touched.

Cindy & Ken Stagg

June 6, 2005

We were terribly saddened to hear that Christine had lost her fight against cancer. We are grateful for the chances that we had to spend with her, and sorry that we won't have more. Our condolences to Pierre, Marc, Pascale and the rest of her family.

Michael Pritchett

June 6, 2005

Mrs. L was such a wonderful and caring teacher. I had the pleasure of working with her for the last 3 years. In these past few months, she was proud of all that she had accomplished in her lifetime. She knew that her children and students will go far in the world and will bring the lessons she taught with them wherever they go. Mrs. L will live in Federal Way Public Schools history forever.

- Nathaniel Tellari

June 6, 2005

Mme L was the most understanding and dedicated teacher I have ever met. She will be not be forgotten. I am a second year French student, and I learned alot from Mme Leroueil, and she touched all of our hearts and was more of a Friend than anything else. I will remember her, and I know that she will never be forgotten.

Cheryl Guthrie

June 6, 2005

I had the pleasure of meeting Christine at Lakota the first year I worked there 5 years ago. She was always very helpful, friendly, and sharing a big smile. After she left Lakota, she was great about keeping in touch with her Lakota family. Having just lost my father recently, I know what the family is going through. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. The beautiful memories we all share of Christine will outlast the pain of the grief. She will never be forgotten.

Douglas Clark

June 6, 2005

As a teacher, Christine was the epitome. She loved her "children" more than anything else in life. They were the source of her energy and motivation. Though Christine has peacefully passed to the next world, I am certain she will always be watching her precious pupils, inspiring them from afar. Peace be with you sister.

CJ Keables

June 6, 2005

Christine's amazing ability as a teacher came from her amazing heart.I had the privilege of teaching with Christine but our relationship deepened as she consistently supported and nurtured me through my own cancer treatments. I'll remember our discussions of these last couple months about submitting to God's will because it is what will make us the happiest, but how difficult that can be. I wish I could talk with her now.

ROSENTHAL Michel

June 6, 2005

Ma chere tante, tu es partie et nous sommes tous tres touchés. Toi et tonton nous avez recu Christophe et moi durant deux mois de vacances d'ete qui resteront il est sure dans nos memoire jusqu'a la fin. C'est durant ces vacances que nous vous avons decouvert, vous notre famille des USA, nos cousins et notre cousine.... Nous t'embrassons tous tres fort.

Bambi Klem

June 6, 2005

I will treasure the recipe, picture and story she shared with me for my wedding shower album. I knew her a short time, but was impressed with her verve and dedication to her students. I will take the blessings she gave me and wish her family and friends a gentle peace in her passing.

Jessica Hessler

June 6, 2005

I never met Mrs. Leroueil, but I have been working with her daughter almost everyday for the past 2 years. She must have been an amazing woman to have raised such a daughter.

Sue Overton

June 6, 2005

Christine was one of those truly dedicated educators. I had the pleasure of working with her at Lakota and was the recipient of her knowledge of technology as I was trying to set up "grade machine" on my computer. Her wisdom and wit were enjoyed by all. I had some wonderful e mail conversations with Christine the last couple weeks of her life. As a nurse I was able to tie together science and faith. I hope I was some comfort to her through these conversations. She will be missed by all her students and colleagues. I know she will be looking down with pride as she watches her students succeed.Sue

Pam Tuggle

June 5, 2005

Even though I hardly knew Christine personally, Lakota Middle School / Jr. High School will always embrace her memory. She was known as an outstanding teacher and exceptional human being with tremendous heart, soul, and spirit. I was blessed simply by reading her e-mails to our staff, who loved her dearly. Now, she is in the presence of pure joy and peace, where she no longer must suffer. Thank you Christine for blessing others with your life.

Karen/Jerry Millett

June 5, 2005

We were deeply saddened to hear that Christine had completed her work on earth and in the classroom. She was a dear friend and colleague. Her graciousness and her indomitable energy set her aside from others. Her dignity, self respect and her altruism were hallmarks. All who knew Christine were better for the experience.

Steven Storms

June 5, 2005

Christine will be missed by all who knew her. She was the perfect balance for Pierre. We will hold her dear to our hearts.

Kaelyn Kanesta

June 5, 2005

Mrs.L was aa amazing teacher and i always looked forward to coming to 6th period. You could tell she always wanted to be there and teach her students! She always had a smile on her face and was always here for her students. She will be in the thoughts of all of her students and she will never be forgotten. Mrs. L will be deeply missed at Decatur and i know she will being watching over all her Gators! R.I.P Mrs.L!

Marvin Boyd

June 5, 2005

Mrs.L was my favorite teacher! she was a great friend, mentor and an outstanding teacher! my name is Marvin boyd and ive known her for 4 years and will never forget her abillity to care for each and every student or person for that matter that she came into contact with. i will never ever forget that.



Marvin

Marvin Boyd

June 5, 2005

I knew Mrs.L for 4 years. she was one of my favorite teachers! she was not only and damn good teacher, but she was also a great mentor and an outstanding friend. I speak for all of her students when i say that she will be deeply missed. My best wishes goes to Mr. Leroueil and your family. i will never forget her!



Marvin A.K.A. her best T.A. ever!

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