Kristi Nunnink

KRISTI MAY CRUSE-NUNNINK

Kristi Nunnink was born Kristi May Cruse in Sacramento, CA in June of 1961. Seeking the refuge of small town camaraderie, Kristi and her family moved to Nevada County when Kristi was a small child. She was a 1979 graduate of Nevada Union High School.

Shortly following graduation, Kristi moved to Quincy, CA where she attended Feather

River College. It was there that she met Randy Nunnink, a Nevada County native. The two were married New Years Eve, 1986. The following year, Kristi gave birth to the couples only son, Walter Ryan Nunnink. The tight-knit family returned to Nevada

County in 2003 where, together, they remained an active part of their home-town community until Kristis death.

At an early age, Kristi found a love for horses. Her parents cultivated that love, enrolling her in the local Pony Club. Her childhood passion made Kristi a fierce competitor in and out of the arena. Kristi would leverage that drive throughout her life to teach, train and empower other young riders, who often became an extension of Kristi's family.

As an adult, Kristi's love for all things equestrian catapulted her to compete Internationally across the United Sates and European countries such as England and France, where she proudly represented the United States.

The impact Kristi had on the lives of family, friends and horse enthusiasts near and far is evidenced throughout the equestrian community and beyond.

With her loving husband, Randy and son, Ryan by her side, Kristi passed away January 18. She is further survived by parents Walter and Penny Cruse, brothers Matthew and Tony and numerous nieces and nephews.

Plans for a celebration of Kristi's life will be announced at a later date.