Cheryl Kathleen Christie

Cheryl Kathleen Christie, the middle child of three born to Warren and Lola Ellison, entered the world on June 4, 1948, in Missoula, Montana. In her early years, her family lived in Missoula; Shelton; and Spokane before ultimately settling in Boise, Idaho. She attended Borah High School, graduating in 1966. An active and spirited student, Cheryl participated in Drill Team, Pep Club, and Future Business Leaders of America, forming many cherished friendships that would last throughout her life.

From the time she was a young girl, Cheryl set her sights on seeing the world. At just 19 years old, she turned that dream into reality when she was hired by United Airlines. Her new career launched her into the excitement of jet-age travel, crisscrossing the country and experiencing the energy of life in the skies. She was first based in Chicago and later in Seattle, embracing adventure, independence, and the countless stories that came with each flight. After several
memorable years of living out of a suitcase, Cheryl chose to return home to Boise in 1970,
carrying with her a lifetime of experiences and friendships.

Back home in Boise, Cheryl met Karl M. Christie, and the two quickly built a life full of energy,
laughter, and adventure. They were married in 1971 and soon welcomed their two sons, Darin
and David, who became the center of Cheryl’s world. Together, Cheryl and Karl built a beautiful home east of Boise, complete with a pool that became the heart of countless summer gatherings. Their home was always open, filled with backyard barbecues, lively pool parties, and friends and family lingering long into warm Idaho evenings.

Life with Cheryl was never dull. There were boating trips, snowmobiling adventures, camping excursions, and cherished time spent with loved ones in Boise and Garden Valley. Whether hosting a celebration or helping a neighbor in need, Cheryl and Karl were known for their generosity, hospitality, and willingness to show up for others. Though they divorced in 1997, they remained good friends and continued to share pride in the life and family they built together.

Cheryl built a strong and steady career, working at Boise Cascade headquarters, Rainy River,
and later as a realtor before retiring in 2007. In her years living in Meridian, she treasured being close to her son Darin and his wife, Stephani, and eagerly helped care for her granddaughters whenever she had the chance. Being “Nana” was one of her greatest joys, and she rarely missed an opportunity to be present for everyday moments and special milestones alike.

In 2021, Cheryl sold her home in Boise and embraced a new chapter in Washington, moving in with her son David and his husband, Jacob. There, she delighted in helping raise her other two granddaughters, filling her days with laughter, love, and family, reading to them, sharing stories that sparked their imaginations, and proudly attending their many dance recitals.

Cheryl found happiness in life’s simple pleasures such as tending to her garden, meeting family and friends for long lunches, attending church, and spending as much time as possible surrounded by the people she loved most.

Cheryl passed away at her home in Okanogan on December 27, 2025, after a short illness,
surrounded by family. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her. Her life, her stories, and the memories she created with family and friends will remain in their hearts always.

She is survived by her son Darin and his wife, Stephani, and their daughters, Haily and Kennedy; her son David and his husband, Jacob, and their daughters, Tianna and Jackie; her sister, Barbara (John) Bullock; her brother, Dennis (Mary) Ellison; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Warren and Lola Ellison, and her former
husband, Karl M. Christie.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Borah Lionettes
Dance Team, supporting the joy of dance that meant so much to her and her granddaughters.