Christtine Heather Fondse

With heavy hearts we announce the peaceful passing of Christtine at City Hospital, Saskatoon on Friday, April 24, 2026. Predeceased by her beloved mother, Heather in 1995 and brother, Roy in 2021, Christtine will be deeply missed by her sister-in-law Evelyn, of Winnipeg, cousins Stephanie and Pauline in the United Kingdom, her "adopted twin daughters" Rachelle and Adele and a vast network of longtime, caring friends across the world.

Christtine was born in Bangalore in Mysore State, now called Karnataka. Exposure to East Indian culture from birth to young adulthood left an indelible mark on Christtine's soul and guided her as she immigrated from India to England in 1963 and then to Canada in 1967 to fulfil a teaching contract in Luseland, Saskatchewan before settling in Saskatoon.

Introduced to English literature at an early age by her mother, Christtine went on to attain a Bachelor of Education, a Post-Graduate Diploma in Education, a Master of Education and a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Saskatchewan and a PhD in children's literature from Ohio State University in 1987.

A brilliant and passionate academic, Christtine was recognized and well regarded for her classroom teaching and mentorship. Libraries were her playground where she influenced many a child to become addicted to literature. However, her true strength was the ability to cultivate and nurture relationships with family, friends, colleagues, and students and in later years, the attentive caregivers who along with unfailing support from her cherished friends enabled her to maintain independence in her home until her admission to hospital in late March, 2026.

Christtine loved Canada and never missed the chance to be thankful for its beauty and opportunities. She often marvelled at the prairie skies, lush gardens, bountiful crops, wildlife, and diversity of cultures. She ensured she could appreciate this beauty year-round by surrounding herself with a collection of Canadiana paintings and sculptures which brought her joy.

Sharing with others was a value that Christtine believed in and lived by. Throughout her life, and even when she was frail, she demonstrated a compassionate heart for those who needed a kind word, or some food or a few dollars to carry them through a rough patch.

Christtine loved British Murder Mysteries on TV and in print and had an appetite for a tasty meal. Known for her hearty and infectious laugh, love for Tim Horton's, avoidance of anything to do with the dreaded number 4 and the spelling of her name with two tt's, Christtine was unforgettable.

Christtine, your memory is a precious blessing which we will always cherish. Rest in Peace Dear Friend.

Thank you to the physicians and nurses and multitude of caregivers in the Saskatoon Health Region who provided professional and dedicated healthcare and services to Christtine.

Flowers are gratefully declined. Should friends desire, donations in memory of Christtine to an animal rescue would be appreciated as she loved all animals. For example: Living Sky Wildlife Rehabilitation or New Hope Dog Rescue or a charity of your choice.

A Graveside Service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 3, at Woodlawn Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to Saskatoon Funeral Home, 306-244-5577.