Wendy O. Christner

Wendy Christner, age 85, of Pittsburgh, PA, passed away peacefully on Saturday January 10th. Born in November 1940 in Pittsburgh to Gene and Betty Jane (BJ), Wendy graduated high school from the Ellis School and attended Chatham College, which she cut short to begin her career. Wendy married Richard (Dick) Christner shortly after leaving Chatham and Wendy and Dick were happily married until her passing. Wendy was known for her strong personality and dedication to family and friends.

Wendy was the eldest of 10 siblings, helping to raise them when they were kids and providing a safe place to go later on as adults. She told everyone what to do, and they did it! Wendy raised 4 sons, no easy task, and like for her siblings, she was always there for her boys, and of course she told them what to do too. She loved her boys, and they loved her right back. Wendy built a career as an Office Manager, managing the books for several small industrial companies, and making many friends along the way. She and her husband Dick later owned and managed a successful bed and breakfast (The Gillray Inn B&B in Harrisville PA), which was one of her lifelong dreams. Wendy loved to travel … Madison on the Lake (Erie), antiquing trips, and excursions to many historic and scenic destinations throughout the U.S. and Europe. She and Dick even “vacationed” in Charleston, SC for 10 years in retirement. Other interests included gardening, knitting and reading. Wendy’s greatest joy of all came from spending time with family and friends.

Wendy is survived by her husband Dick, her sons Richard (Donna), David (Sue), Gene (Ruth), and James (Laura), and her brothers and sisters Keith, Sis, Jeannie, Robin, Peter, and Gene. She is also survived by eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren. We are all grateful for the affirming role she played in our lives. In keeping with Wendy’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. A memorial will be held at a later date. Those wishing to remember Wendy may consider donating to organizations that support Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s.