Christine Eva (Cooley) Graves

With deep sorrow, yet abiding hope, we announce the passing of Christine Graves, who went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Wednesday, December 18th 2024 at the age of 72. Christine passed peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family, confident in the promise of Eternal Life.

Born on January 14, 1952 in Compton, CA and raised in Juneau, AK, Christine was nurtured with a deep love for God and His Word, a foundation that guided her life and gave her strength. Her unwavering faith was evident in everything she did—her kindness, her service to others, and her ability to find joy and gratitude in all circumstances.

Christine was a devoted wife, mother, and friend, but above all, a faithful servant of Christ. She lived out her beliefs with humility, grace, and love, always striving to reflect God’s light in her interactions with others. Whether through quiet prayers, comforting words, or her tireless support for family, friends, and her church community, Christine’s faith was a cornerstone of her life.

Christine found joy in life’s simple pleasures—reading, gardening, cooking, baking, sewing, hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting. Christine was a dedicated and fastidious bookkeeper, managing the finances of multiple businesses throughout her life with  precision and care. She was an extraordinary cook and a gracious host, always finding comfort and connection in a lovingly prepared meal. Her kitchen, whether in a camper, a church, a friend’s home, or her own cozy space, was always bustling with activity, laughter, and perhaps a bit of a mess. Never would a soul go hungry in the presence of Christine. Her heart and soul stretched from the oceans of Alaska to the mountains of Montana. Guided by her favorite scripture, Psalm 23, she carried life’s seasons with grace and faith.

Christine is survived by her husband Mike Graves; children Danielle Dauenhauer (Patrick), Sean Goertzen (Bridget), and Shane Graves; grandchildren William Dauenhauer, Cecily, Eva, and Nevin Goertzen, Elexus Roth (Caleb), and Lucas Graves; great-grandchild Myla Roth. Siblings Susan Moss, Robert Cooley (Karen), Catherine Vandieren (Robert), Patricia Robinson, Steven Cooley (Glenda), William Cooley (Diane), and Don Cooley; Sisters-in-Law Patti Shultz (Glen) and Lori Koos (John); and multiple beloved nieces and nephews. They will all carry forward her legacy of faith, love, and service. While her absence leaves a profound void, her family takes comfort knowing she is now in the presence of our Savior, where there is no pain or suffering.

Christine was preceded in death by her parents Al and Adrienne Cooley, brother Skip Frugard, daughter-in-law Nicole Graves.

A celebration of Christine’s life will be held on Friday, December 27th at 4:00pm at the Roots Christian Fellowship, 1625 US-93, Victor, MT. Reception to follow. Family and friends will gather to worship, share memories, and honor her steadfast faith. The memorial service will be available to view via live streaming on the Roots Fellowship YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/@Rootsfellowship).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Providence Montana Health Foundation (Montana Cancer Center), the Bitterroot Health Foundation (Hospice Services), or the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation in her memory.

Christine Graves has fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith (2 Timothy 4:7). Though she is no longer with us, her life of faith and love will continue to inspire all who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace and glory with the Lord.