Prairie State Wire

Christel R. "Chris" Bastien, formerly Szeklinski, aged 91, of Palos Heights, IL, passed away on August 19, 2025. She was the beloved wife of Wayne P. Bastien for over 65 years and a loving mother to Daniela and Nicole. Christel adored her grandchildren, Jackie, Eric, and Greg, as well as her great-granddaughter Evelyn, and was the dear sister of Uwe and Detlef Szeklinski.

Born in Berlin, Germany to Frieda and Kurt Szeklinski, Christel emigrated to the United States independently after World War II. She overcame challenges, learning English, excelling in her career, and raising a family. In her free time, Christel found joy in gardening, painting, cooking, reading, and following Chicago sports, but her true passion was caring for and spending time with her grandchildren.

Visitation and a Memorial Service to honor Christel will be held on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at Colonial Chapel in Orland Park, IL. In lieu of flowers, donations to SAYv Animal Organization, founded by her granddaughter, are appreciated to support their rescue efforts.

Expressions of sympathy can be shared at colonialchapel.com or by calling 708-532-5400. To honor Christel's memory with flowers or memorial trees, visit the family's flower store. Donations to SAYv Animal Organization can be made online at sayvanimals.org/donate as a tribute to Christel R. "Chris" Bastien.

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