Elmwood Funeral Chapel & Crematory

Visitation Information

Christine M Darragh, "Aunt Chris"

Passed away on September 1, 2026

Christine M. Darragh (nee Marciniak) “Aunt Chris”, age 87. Late of Schererville, IN., formerly of Lansing, Il. and South Chicago. Passed away peacefully, on September 1, 2026.

Beloved wife of late Joseph Darragh. Loving mother of Joseph Darragh (Angela Malesich) and Dr. Kimberly (Joseph) Gillette and former daughter-in-law Pamela Darragh. Dearest sister of late Alvina (late James) McPencow, late Marcia (James) Oetzel. Fond aunt of many nieces and nephews.Cherished great-aunt of Zachary and Emilie.

She was "Aunt Chris", to all who knew her. Along with her loving husband, "Uncle Joe", they were friends to all. Whether it was hosting the many parties and gatherings for family and friends, or volunteering at St. Joseph's soup kitchen in Hammond, Indiana, "Aunt Chris" always thought of others and embodied the grace of God. She and "Uncle Joe" lived life full. They enjoyed many winters as snowbirds with friends and family their beloved Treasure Island and North Ft. Myers Florida, trips to Las Vegas, traveled the world from Alaska to the Carribean, Europe and China, and sailed on over 50-cruises.

During their early married years, "Aunt Chris" and "Uncle Joe" lived just off Waikiki Beach in Hawaii, while Joe served his country, "Aunt Chris" often said those years were Heaven on Earth. Now she is truly in Heaven again with "Uncle Joe".

Visitation Friday, September 11, 2026 from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.. Funeral service Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 9:15 a.m. from the Elmwood Funeral Chapel, 11300 W. 97th Lane, St. John, IN. to St. Joseph Church, 440 Joliet St., Dyer, IN for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. Interment Calumet Park Cemetery, Merrillville, IN. For more information 219-365-3474. In Lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Alzheimer's Association or Wounded Warriors Project.

Funeral

Prayers at Elmwood Funeral Chapel
Saturday, September 12, 2026 - 9:15 am

Funeral Mass:
St. Joseph Catholic Church
440 Joliet Street
Dyer, Indiana 46311
Saturday, September 12, 2026 - 10:00 am

Interment:
Calumet Park Cemetery
2305 W 73rd Ave
Merrillville, IN 46410

Memorial Contributions:

In Lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Alzheimer's Association or Wounded Warriors Project.

Visitation Location

St. John
11300 W. 97th Lane
St. John, IN 46373
(219) 365-3474

Map

Visitation Information

Friday, September 11, 2026 - 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm

Condolences
"My deepest condolences to you and your family on the loss of your beautiful mother. I know there are no words that can take away the pain of losing someone so deeply loved. May you find comfort in the memories you shared, the love she gave, and the family surrounding you during this difficult time. I’m here for you walking beside you through it all. ❤️ Angie"
- Angie
September 2, 2026 9:48 pm
"Aunt Chris, I have been so blessed to have a beautiful aunt as you. Heaven is rejoicing to receive such an angel. Love Bill and Dorothy "
- Dorothy Ziegler
September 3, 2026 11:31 am
"Rest in Peace Aunt Chris. Say Hello to all the gang love you. "
- Joan Pufahl
September 3, 2026 5:27 pm
"Kim, words cannot express how saddened I was when you told me about the loss of your mom. I know how much she meant to you and how very much she’ll be missed, but now she can get back to vacationing with her love, he’s been waiting patiently for her. Please call if you need anything at all. "
- Crystal Best
September 4, 2026 1:13 am
"I’m so sorry Kimmy. We have such great memories with you Mom and Dad. Uncle Joe and Aunt Chris to us. Partying in St. Petersburg, boating in Punta Gorda and cocktails always involved especially rum and coke. May your Mom and Dad finally have peace together. Love you!!!! Diane and Dave "
- David & DianecLange
September 4, 2026 5:06 am
"Kim, my heart goes out to you. We loved the vibrantly of your mom. So fun. Dressed to the 9s all the time. Make up & nails done so well. She will be missed. Please know I care."
- Gloria Morningstar
September 4, 2026 5:02 pm
"Joe, I’m so very sorry for the loss of your mom. My heart goes out to you and your family during this difficult time. I know how much a mother means, and I hope the memories you shared with her bring you comfort and strength. I’m truly thinking of you and your family. May God give you all peace and comfort. ❤️🙏"
- Daisy
September 9, 2026 10:34 am
"My deepest condolences to your family during this difficult time. "Mom" was loved by so many and will be missed by all who were blessed to know her. "The sorrow we feel when we lose a loved one is the price we pay to have had them in our lives. Yet, there is a beautiful comfort in knowing that they have stepped into eternal peace, free from the heavy burdens of this world." For most of my life, she was a second mother to me, and I loved her dearly. I am profoundly grateful for the decades of beautiful memories we shared, and for the way she always made me feel so loved (I will always cherish being her "Pammie"). Her warmth, kindness, generosity and love never wavered. She was an extraordinary woman who left a lasting mark on everyone who knew her. Please know that I am holding the entire family in my thoughts and prayers. I am grieving alongside you and sending you all my deepest sympathy and love. With heartfelt condolences, Pam"
- Pam
September 9, 2026 11:51 am
Candles Lit
"One of the loveliest woman I am proud to say was my Aunt Chris. Such a beautiful soul inside and out. Until I see you again give everyone a kiss for me. "
- Robin Schmidt
September 2, 2026 9:12 pm
"Please comfort her family during this painful time. Give them strength when their hearts are heavy, peace when they feel overwhelmed, and comfort in knowing that her love will remain with them always. May her memory be a blessing, and may her soul rest peacefully in Your presence. "
- Angie
September 2, 2026 9:50 pm
"A beautiful person inside and out and so many memories growing up. Will be missed dearly ,She loved everyone and had a heart of Gold ,My aunt Chris. REST high and say hi to the gang up there all reunited 😢 "
- Michelle Danielle Ziegler
September 4, 2026 6:57 pm
"Lighting a candle for a beautiful soul who was a second mother to me for most of my life. May this flame represent the eternal warmth, love, and grace she gave so freely. While my heart aches with her grieving family, there is comfort in knowing she has stepped into absolute peace. You will always be in my heart. Rest softly. ✨🤍🕯️"
- Pam
September 9, 2026 11:52 am