Christine Lanning Obituary - Battle Creek, Michigan | Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service
375 W. Dickman Road, Battle CreekMI 49037
Phone: 269-788-9800

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Christine Lanning
In Memory of
Christine Ann
Lanning (Chivis)
1957 - 2018
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Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service
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Obituary for Christine Ann Lanning (Chivis)

Christine Ann Lanning, 60, of Newaygo, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, March 28, 2018. She was born on October 8, 1957, the daughter of Rueben Chivis and Anna Malazzo.

Christine graduated from Godwin High School in 1975, and then went on to graduate with her Associates Degree from Ferris State University. Throughout her career she held many positions including owner of Lanco Marketing with her husband, Rod. Most recently, Christine was the elected to the Tribal Council for the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi. She served as the Treasurer from 2013 to 2017 at which point she was reelected as Secretary. As a member of the elected Tribal Council, she served as chairperson for both the Culture Committee and the Elders Committee. She also served on the Michigan Community Service Commission following her appointment by Governor Rick Snyder in 2015. Christine was devoted to her family first, but also devoted to her Tribe and to the employees of both the Tribal government and FireKeepers Casino Hotel, all of whom she regarded as family.

Christine is survived by her Husband of 35 years - Rodney Alan Lanning of Newaygo, Michigan; Daughter, Sara (Brad) Moore; Son, Scott Lanning; Sister, Rose (Joel) Tepastte; Brother, Russell Chivis; Grandson, Liam Moore; Childhood Lifelong Friends, Mel, Holly, Cathie, and Denise and Special recognition to the Italian and Native families of Christine. She was preceded in death by her Father, Rueben Chivis and Mother, Anna Malazzo.

Christine loved being outside near Brooks Lake, her home of the past 28 years. She enjoyed swimming, boating, fishing, reading, music, playing board games, art, painting, connecting with friends, and making precious memories with her family. Christine enjoyed dance, and enjoyed teaching others to dance which she did for many years. She especially loved spending time with her grandson, Liam, who shares her infectious smile. She was the heart of her family, and loved cooking and surrounding herself with her family. Christine genuinely cared about people. Her deep affection and appreciation was evident in her genuine smile and her famous hugs.

Christine’s family would like to invite anyone who wishes to share memories or stories about her to the memorial service, where there will be an opportunity to do so.

Visitation will be held at the Pine Creek Indian Reservation Community Center located at 1485 Mno- Bmadzewen Way, Fulton, on Tuesday, April 3, 2018 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

A Memorial Service will be held at the W K Kellogg Auditorium located at 50 W Van Buren Street, Battle Creek on Wednesday, April 4, 2018, starting at 2 p.m.

Christine had a special passion for her work to prevent domestic violence and to support and care for its survivors. She was a member of the board of directors for S.A.F.E Place women’s shelter, for which she was a tireless fundraiser and frequent volunteer. Her efforts enabled survivors to find safety and live their lives free of abuse. In lieu of sending flowers please make your donations to: S.A.F.E Place Women's Shelter, P.O. Box 199 Battle Creek, MI 49016.

Amazing mother, grandma, wife and leader. She will be missed by all. She was loved by all.

Arrangements by the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service. 269-788-9800. www.baxterfuneral.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Christine Ann Lanning (Chivis), please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.

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