Kristen Marie Reisinger

Born in 1969 in Bloomington, Illinois to Michael and Doris Reisinger, Kristen became a gifted culinary professional who enjoyed mentoring others and sharing her talents with family and friends. She spent her youth in Springfield Illinois, attending Little Flower Catholic School and Sacred Heart Academy. It was here that Kristen’s gifts in the culinary arts and as a seamstress blossomed and where her talents were widely acknowledged. Kristen decided to pursue a career in the culinary arts and moved to Chicago, Illinois to attend Lexington College and North Park University where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management and Human Development.

In her thirty years as a culinary professional, Kristen worked in a variety of positions and pursued numerous certificates, honing her expertise in almost every aspect of the culinary arts. She was recognized by her mentors and peers alike for her expertise in recipe development and her passion for advancing culinary education. One of her greatest joys over the past year was teaching cooking classes to local children.

Twenty years ago, Kristen moved to Highlands Ranch, Colorado with The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. Colorado quickly became her second home and Kristen's life was enriched not only by the deep friendships she established here but by reconnecting with the outdoors. She loved a drive to Idaho Springs, a hike at Echo Lake or a day snowmobiling with visiting family.

While we will all remember Kristen as a respected and experienced chef, her legacy extends well beyond her professional accomplishments. Kristen possessed exceptional beauty inside and out and she brought a bright light to every interaction. We will all miss her infectious laugh, her generous spirit and her genuine warmth.

In addition to her mother, Doris Reisinger, Kristen is mourned by her five brothers and sisters: Michael Reisinger II, Ann Thompson (Alejandro Arreola), Dan Reisinger, Cathleen Jaglin (Joel), and Theresa Reisinger. She was adored by her six nieces and nephews who she loved deeply: Michael Batman, the Cole man, Maevey Gravy, Lil Bean, Mayhem, and the man known as Z. She was preceded in death by her father, Michael Reisinger.

Kristen died at peace and surrounded by her loving family. A Celebration of Life and a Catholic mass will be held at St. Thomas More Catholic Church on January 10, 2022 at 11:00 am. A lunch reception will follow. A second funeral mass and internment will be scheduled at a later date in Springfield, Illinois.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Heart Association or to plant a memorial tree in her honor