Christine Lynn Flavin, 75, of Traverse City and formerly of Pinckney, Michigan, passed away peacefully with her family at her side on January 22, 2026, at Munson Medical Center.Christine was born on June 30, 1950, in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Joseph and Harriet (Adler) Fernandez. She graduated from Thurston High School in 1968 and went on to earn her bachelor's degree in education from Michigan State University in 1972. She later continued her education, receiving her master's degree from Marygrove College.Christine devoted many years to teaching, working in the Howell and Pinckney school districts, where she touched countless lives with her dedication and kindness. Earlier in her career, she also worked as a paralegal and executive secretary for a law firm.After college, Christine spent a year living in Chicago, where she met Steve Francis Flavin. The two fell in love and were married on March 6, 1976, at St. Paul's Monastery in Detroit, Michigan. They settled in Pinckney and together they lovingly raised their son, Spencer.In later years, Christine and Steve purchased a cottage on Old Mission Peninsula in Traverse City, where they treasured time spent together. Following retirement, they made Traverse City their full-time home in 2022.Christine had a tremendous love for animals, especially horses. She cherished every moment spent riding and caring for them. In her younger years, she kept many animals on her farm, including horses, colts, chickens, cats, and dogs. Though injuries eventually led her to give up horseback riding, her love for horses never faded.She was an active volunteer at the Traverse City Senior Center, where she called Bingo on Thursdays and shared many laughs and friendships. Christine also enjoyed her monthly Scrabble group and treasured the many friends she made throughout her life. A wonderful cook, she loved nothing more than spending time with her family and friends.Christine will be remembered as a devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother, caring sister, and loyal friend.She is survived by her husband, Steve Flavin; her son, Spencer (Trista) Flavin; granddaughter Elliana, her sisters, Jody (Miles) Brittain, and Terri (Kevin) Irrer; her brother-in-law, Paul (Diane) Flavin; and her sisters-in-law, Patricia Barnett and Julie (Dave) Anderson. A memorial gathering was held at the Traverse City Senior Center on Thursday, April 30, 2026.
A second memorial gathering will be held from 12-3pm on June 7, 2026, at One Under, 35780 Five Mile Road, Livonia, MI 48154.
Memorial contributions may be directed to a charity of one's choice.