Christine J. (Ontjes) Shires, age 77, of Collegeville, Pennsylvania, passed away on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, in the Reading Hospital. Born on July 21, 1948, in Palo Alto, California, she was the only child of the late Wanda Marie (Loe) and Bert Ontjes.
While living in California, Chris had been employed as a nurse, a position she thoroughly enjoyed, however decided to transition into a stay at home mom for most of her adult life after her sons were born. When the boys were young, she had been very active with the Royersford Elementary School and in the early 90's had been employed at Bob Evans, a job she liked very much.
In the mid 90's Chris met the love of her life, Barry, and they have been companions ever since. Chris was an active founding member of the Audubon Ladies Club, was an avid reader, and enjoyed being outside in her gardens. She had an adventurous spirit and loved travel, sometimes only a day trip, even if she wasn't physically able to go. Most importantly, Chris loved spending most of her time with her family.
Chris is survived by her sons: Joseph B. (Sarah) Fazzari and Michael S. (Megan) Fazzari; companion: Barry Watson; and grandchildren: Jacob Michael, Evan Joseph, and Hannah Grace.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend her funeral service on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at 11:00 AM, at the Campbell-Ennis-Klotzbach Funeral Home, Inc., Main Street at Fifth Avenue, Phoenixville. Officiating will be the Rev. Sarah Strosahl-Kagi. Interment will follow in the Valley Forge Memorial Gardens, King of Prussia. Friends will be received from 10:00 AM-11:00 AM at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Chris' name to the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, Gift Processing Administrator,18251 Quantico Gateway Drive, Triangle, VA 22172, www.toysfortots.org/donate.
Arrangements are being handled by the Campbell - Ennis - Klotzbach Funeral Home, Inc. Condolences may be offered online at www.PhoenixvilleFuneralHome.com.