Christine (Smith) Van Vorst , VRHS Class of 1970
Christine F. Van Vorst, , 73, of Renssealer, passed away Sunday, October 22, 2023, at Albany Medical Center after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. Christine was born January 23, 1950, in Albany, NY. The daughter of the late Albert Smith and Shirley (Bassett) Smith. After retiring from New York State, Christine continued on working as a Travel Advisor for Blue Skies Travel in East Greenbush. Known for her genuine heart to help others, and her love of travel, Christine excelle0d in creating memories of a lifetime for her clients, family, and friends. She was also a member of the Girlfriends Golf League Survivors include her beloved husband of 51 years, James D. Van Vorst Jr., devoted mother to her children, Jodi L. Champlin (Michael DeSanto), James D. (Dr. Xzabia Caliste Van Vorst, III) Van Vorst, III; Kelly (Robert) Cronkhite, proud sister of Doreen (Gary) Van Vorst, and Steven Smith (Patricia Lanzilotti). Christine was the best Nana to her four grandchildren Michael and Matthew Champlin and Alyssa and Kylie Cronkhite. You could find her on the bleachers cheering them on for sports or in the kitchen teaching them how to bake. She never missed a celebration or an opportunity to show her support for her children and grandchildren. She is also survived by many sister and brother in-laws and nieces and nephews. Special friend of Johanna Burnham and the late Joannne McCarthy. Relatives and friends are invited to her Visitation Hours Wednesday evening 4-7 at The Rockefeller Funeral Home 165 Columbia Turnpike, Rensselaer. Family and friends are also invited to her funeral services 10 o'clock Thursday Morning at the funeral home and then 10:30 a.m. Mass at St. John the Evangelist and St. Joseph Church, Herrick Street Rensselaer. In lieu of flowers and to honor Christine's passion of giving to others, please consider making a donation to Make-A- Wish Northeast NY. wish.org or by mail: 92 Congress St, Ste 200, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. The family would like to thank Mohawk Ambulance and the Rensselaer Fire Department for their kindness and compassion.