Christine E. Kruman

Christine E. Kruman, cherished sister, best friend to many, and passionate philanthropist, passed away on November 2, 2021. She was 72, and lived a life jam-packed with love, laughter, courage, and giving. Chris grew up in Canton, Ohio, where she established her tenacity early on, always challenging her older brother Richard to feats of strength and endurance (especially if it involved covering their breakfasts in mountains of hot pepper). After attending Walsh University and Kent State University (Stark Campus), Chris dove headfirst into a successful career in banking and the non-profit sector that spanned decades and touched countless lives. Volunteering was one of her true joys, as Chris volunteered with or served on the board of over a dozen institutions like the United Way, the Canton Cultural Center for the Arts, Temple Israel Sisterhood Canton, the Junior League, and so many more. On top of all her responsibilities, she found time to express her creativity through quilting, a perfect hobby considering her keen eye for color and meticulous attention to detail. Chris’ charm and genuine curiosity could put anyone at ease; the sparkle in her eye made her instant friends with everyone she met. Though she faced her share of struggles, she never lost her light, her strength, or her good humor, or her ability to bring people together.

Chris is survived by her brother Richard Monasterio, her sister-in-law Sarah Monasterio, her nephews Matthew and Michael, her niece Katherine, and extended family and innumerable friends, all of whom love her dearly and will miss her daily. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Howard Kruman, in 1997.

A committal service to bury Chris beside her beloved Howard will be held Tuesday, November 9, at 1:30 PM at North Lawn Cemetery with Rabbi John Spitzer and Father Steven Brunovsky officiating. Friends and family are welcome to attend this service but social distancing and masks will be required.  A memorial service will be held in the coming weeks at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Howard and Christine Designated Fund at the Stark County Community Foundation in Canton.

A Memorial Mass will be held Friday, April 1, 2022, at 11:00 AM, in St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Canton with Fr. Steven Brunovsky Celebrant.