Christine Marie Schmittgens Lorenz

Christine Marie Lorenz, nee Schmittgens, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, and friend, passed peacefully at home with her family on Thursday August 7, 2025, at the age of 73. Known for her commitment to helping others, her gentle and compassionate spirit, and her passion for teaching, she touched countless lives in and out of the classroom.

Born and raised in St. Louis, Chris grew up in the St. Celicia’s Parish community, attended Cleveland High school, and went on to earn her teaching degree at Harris-Stowe Teachers College. She began her career at Green Trails and Henry Elementary Schools in Parkway School District, where she nurtured young minds with her patience and creativity. After several years, she left the classroom to raise her own children – a role she embraced with unmatched love and dedication – before returning to teaching at Parkway West Middle School, where she truly found her calling as an 8th grade history teacher.

In the history classroom, Mrs. Lorenz brought the past to life. Her passion for visiting historical sites and bringing artifacts into the classroom enriched her lessons, making American history a living, breathing story for her students. She was known for her ability to connect with young people, inspiring curiosity and a love for learning.

Outside of teaching, Chris found joy in quilting, sewing, nature and the outdoors. She could often be found tending her garden, hiking a scenic trail, standing in quiet reflection on a battlefield, or taking her grandchildren on adventures with her husband and best friend, Ray.

Above all, Chris was a devoted wife, sister, mother, and grandmother, whose greatest pride and joy were her family. She nurtured not just her own loved ones, but every person who crossed her path – with patience, wisdom, and a listening ear.

She is survived by husband of 50 years Ray Lorenz; daughters Erika (Marty) Kennedy, Kari (Christopher) Johnson, and Anne (Eli) Rutledge; grandchildren Patrick, Andy, Jack, and Luke Kennedy and Miles, Owen, Evie, and Barry Rutledge; siblings Mark Schmittgens, Mary Ellen (Dennis) Gipson, Eric (Cely) Schmittgens, Carl (Maureen) Schmittgens, Claire (Mason) Laster, and Katie Schmittgens; mother-in-law Maryanne Lorenz and brother-in-law Steve (Suzy) Lorenz; as well as a community of relatives, friends, former students, and colleagues who will carry her memory forward. She is preceded in death by parents Joseph and Joyce, nee Werner, Schmittgens and father-in-law Victor Lorenz.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Cecilia School and Academy or Siteman Cancer Center.