Christine Klein Bennett

Christine Klein Bennett of Worcester, Pennsylvania died March 18, 2025.

Born December 18, 1952, she was raised in Upper Gwynedd by epic storyteller Emilie Stott Klein and devoted naturalist Richard Klein. She graduated from North Penn High School in 1970 and from Bloomsburg University in 1974 with a bachelor's degree in elementary education.

While nurturing three children in North Wales with her beloved husband, Steven Bennett, she created Wise Owl Books to provide distinctive literature to young readers. Chris and Steve designed a family home and cultivated a sanctuary by the East Branch of the Perkiomen Creek in Harleysville. Following his death in 2008, she relocated to Worcester and crafted a new chapter of resilience, exploration, and community.

During her public school teaching career of nearly 30 years, Christine earned a master's degree in environmental education from Arcadia University in 1996, coauthored an award-winning environment and ecology curriculum for elementary students, established a butterfly garden at Oak Ridge Elementary School, and coordinated environmental education for Souderton Area School District. Passionate about environmental stewardship, she also volunteered at the Pennsylvania Audubon Society and the Perkiomen Watershed Conservancy.

A lifelong learner, forest bather, beachcomber, and spiritual traveler, Christine found daily purpose and miracles in the natural world. Her legacy endures through her adoring family: children Julia Faith (and Irfan Rizvi), Diana Hope Bennett, and Adam Stuart (and Alaina Town Bennett); grandchildren Anisa Noor, Kian Jasper, Iyla Opal, Henry Steven, and Nora Rose; sister Nancy Klein Poulin of Harleysville; and brother Richard Klein Jr. of North Wales.

The family has profound gratitude for Christine's dedicated team at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, which shepherded her through survival with a rare and aggressive cancer for more than seven years. A cherished community of loved ones, friends, neighbors, and caregivers remains inspired by her courage, optimism, and perseverance.

All are welcome to gather for a visitation beginning at 10:30am and a memorial service at 11:00am on Saturday, May 3 at the Church of the Messiah in Lower Gwynedd. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Christine's honor to the National Audubon Society.