Christa Brigitte Sabine Hedlich

Christa Brigitte Sabine Hedlich (nee von Kannewurff), 81, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, passed away on December 11, 2024. Christa was born in Berlin, Germany, on January 17, 1943, to the late Ernst and Erna von Kannewurff. She attended primary and secondary school in Berlin. Christa swam for the Strandbad Plötzensee swim team. She completed her studies in Hospitality and started studies for clothing design. She married Wolfgang Hedlich in 1965, and they had one son, Kirk. She spent her life as a homemaker. 

Beyond her family, Christa embraced a life filled with diverse interests and passions. A creative spirit, she enjoyed sewing, quilting, paper arts, woodworking, and even stained glass. Her adventurous nature led her to join the Kalamazoo Adventure Club, embarking on numerous trips and organized bike tours. An active member of the YMCA and Bronson Health Club, she loved cross-country skiing and swimming, a passion she carried from her youth in Germany where she was part of a swimming club. Christa cherished spending time with her family and grandchildren, and visits from her relatives in Germany always held a special place in her heart. Outgoing and vibrant, she loved to celebrate others and remained stoic to the end, a testament to her strength and character. 

Christa is survived by her beloved husband, Wolfgang Hedlich; her son, Kirk (Christina) Hedlich; her grandchildren, Jenna Hedlich-Dwyer (Jeffrey Dwyer) and Noah (Audionna) Hedlich; her brothers, Bernard von Kannewurff and Adelbert von Kannewurff; her sister-in-law, Eva Matsuyama; and her nieces and nephews. 

Services to celebrate Christa's life will be held at Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial & Cremation Services, 3926 S 9th St, Kalamazoo, MI 49009, on Friday, December 20, 2024. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Christa’s honor to a charity of your choice.