Christene U. Wade

Christene was born in Berlin, Germany on November 13, 1941 during World War II. She was raised in Frankfurt, Germany by her parents Kurt and Marianne Fluske, who preceded her in death. Her early childhood years were spent on her grandparents’ farm, away from the war. She returned to Berlin after the war and finished school. Christene then moved to the United States on her own when she was 18, and ended up in St. Louis, MO.

Christene went to a trade school and became a trained seamstress. In her younger years, she worked as a model. After modeling, she went on to work as a cocktail waitress in the Chase Park Plaza Hotel when it was at its peak. She was one of the most beautiful cocktail waitresses in the hotel. They called her the next Gretta Garbo or Sophia Loren. During her time as a cocktail waitress, she had the pleasure of meeting a number of famous stars, including Elvis Presley, Phyllis Diller, and even Dolly Parton. Christene enjoyed exercising daily, going shopping, reading, and taking care of her home & yard. She also loved listening to music, dancing, traveling all over the world, golfing, swimming, playing outside in the sun, spending time with good friends, and laughing as much as possible. She also loved cats and always had a feline companion to keep her company.

Christene lived her life with guts, determination, and a strong will to overcome any obtacles and to survive. She also made sure to always be learning, laughing, and having fun. The greatest thing she ever did was become a mother. She was most proud of her children, Michael and Anja, and all of their accomplishments. Being with her children and grandchildren was all she ever wanted. Christene will be remembered for her amazing accent, her unstoppable smile, and her warm embrace. She loved all of her family beyond measure, and they will all miss her dearly.

Christene was the devoted mother of Mike Wade and Anja Wade Hembree; loving grandmother of Luke Hembree, Ashley Berry, and Charles Wade; dearest sister of Heinz Fluske and the late Herbert Fluske; and dear ex-wife and friend of Jack Wade. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends.