We are incredibly saddened by the passing of Christa Maria Von Appen – Rider.

Christa was born on December 10, 1940 in Germany and passed away on September 16, 2025 at her residence in Tacoma, WA.  She led a very full life beginning with growing up in war torn Europe and immigrating to the United States.  She was very proud to become an American citizen.  She lived her life raising her four children as a single mother.  In doing so, much of her working life involved working two jobs.  However, she always had time to spend with her children doing such things as hiking, camping, skiing, and numerous outdoor activities on a regular basis.  She was a lover of nature and the outdoors and passed that love onto her children and grandchildren.  After raising her children and eventually retiring from the workforce, she continued this passion with her grandchildren and late husband travelling sometimes in their RV.

Christa is survived by a brother and a sister, her four children, five grandchildren and three great grandchildren.  She will be greatly missed by all as well as many, many more friends and loved ones.  She truly was one of the kindest, most warm hearted people one could know.   She was a true friend that was easy to talk to and have a relationship with.

We were blessed her and her love.  We will all truly miss her.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to St. Jude Children's hospital in her honor.