Barbara Mae Cron Christiansen

ROCKFORD - Barbara Mae (nee Bunting) Cron Christiansen "Grandma Cupcake", age 83, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday May 4, 2024 surrounded by people who loved her. She was born to Kenneth L. Bunting Sr. and Constance (nee Aguliar) Bunting on Feb 10, 1941 in Rockford, IL where she lived her entire life. Attended West High School and married Charles T. Cron Sr. on February 13, 1960 with whom she had 4 children. Later she married James Christiansen on June 11, 1976.

She was a devout member of the Christian faith where she raised her children. She unselfishly devoted her life to helping those less fortunate. She opened her home to those who needed a place to stay, fed those who were hungry and gave what little financial assistance she could to those who needed a few dollars. Her empathy and compassion meant no one was a stranger. Even at the end of her life all she wanted to do was help others.

She is survived by daughters, Candice (Kenneth) Bryant of Pecatonica, IL, Jane (Steven) Bird of Pecatonica, IL and Tamara (Patrick) Sullivan of LaVergne, TN; as well as Timothy Christiansen, Paula (Jason) Rogers, Tonya (Robert) Eastlick, Brody (Karen) Christiansen; 15 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren; siblings, Anna Marie Shoemate, Kenneth L. Bunting Jr., Michael (Jessie) Bunting, John "Butch" Bunting, Thomas Bunting, Richard Bunting, James (Joni) Bunting, Linda (Alan) Bunting-Howard, Gloria Angeles and Patricia (Gerardo) Zamora; brother-in-law, Jerry (Sherry) Christiansen; sister-in-law, Sue Christiansen; numerous nieces & nephews and cousins; lifelong friend, Mary Jane Alongi; and special friends, Jean Melvin and Don Schultz; as well as many other dear friends. She is predeceased by her parents; husband, James Christiansen; sons, Charles T. Cron Jr. and Gary Christiansen; grandchildren, Rebekah Jo Cron, Skylar Dodson and Michael Centowski; and sister, Shirley Pearson.

Per her request cremation rites will be accorded. A graveside service will be held on Friday May 24, 2024 at 11:00 am immediately followed by interment of the urn at Willwood Burial Park, 7000 W. State St. Rockford, IL 61102. Christenson Funeral Home is assisting the family. In lieu of flowers please make a donation in her name to: St. Jude's Children's Hospital at stjude.org

The family of Barbara would like to thank the devoted staff of Amberwood Care Center for the love and compassion bestowed upon our Mother these last 3 years.

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