She was born on November 1, 1929, in Pleasant Hill, Missouri, and spent most of her life in the Kansas City area. Christeen was the beloved daughter of James J. Bunch Sr. and Elsie Viola (James) Bunch, and the cherished sister of three brothers and one sister who preceded her in death: James J. Bunch Jr., Marvin Bunch, Francis Dee Bunch, and Elsie Louise Bunch.
She is survived by her daughter, Deborah Eagleburger of Blue Springs, MO; her sons, Steven Kleitz of Roseville, MN, David Kleitz of Blue Springs, MO, and Mark Kleitz of Grandview, MO; and her sister-in-law, Evelyn Bunch of Reeds Spring, MO. She also leaves behind nine grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.
After graduating from Pleasant Hill High School in 1947, Christeen moved to Kansas City with her best friend, Louise. Thanks to her great-aunt Minnie, Christeen and Louise had a place to stay as their lives began. Christeen went on to work for several years before meeting the love of her life, John William ‘Bill’ Kleitz, and the two were married on December 20, 1951. They shared nearly 43 wonderful years together before Bill's passing on November 9, 1994.
Christeen was deeply rooted in her faith. She was an active member of Marlborough Baptist Church for many years, serving in the nursery and as the church treasurer. In her later years, she was a devoted member of First Baptist Church of Blue Springs.
She was passionately involved in her children’s education, serving multiple terms as PTA president across several schools. Christeen was a true example of mercy and service—always ready to lend a hand and offer a listening ear. She befriended those who were often overlooked and made it her mission to extend love and kindness to everyone she met.
To the neighborhood kids—and their kids—Christeen was affectionately known as “Mom” and “Grandma K".
She will be deeply missed by all who knew her and lovingly remembered for her warmth, laughter, and unconditional love. We find peace in knowing she is now reunited with her beloved husband and in the presence of her Savior.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions to Novus LifeCare who lovingly cared for her until her passing or to Impact Ministry of First Baptist Church of Blue Springs, their benevolence ministry and food pantry (to donate, visit http://fbcbluesprings.org/).
