Obituary of Christine Pitts Abelseth

Slingerlands - Christine Dorothy Abelseth, née Pitts, died peacefully with her loving children by her side on November 9th at Beverwyck nursing home in Slingerlands, NY.  She was 94.

Christine was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years Melvin, her brother James Pitts and her daughter in law Cynthia Manguilli Abelseth.  She was survived by her three children, Janet Abelseth (Steven Lillienstein), Jill Abelseth (Thomas Canavan) and James Abelseth as well as four grandchildren; Michael Canavan, (Hillary Dixler Canavan) Timothy Canavan, Christine Vielkind (Matthew Vielkind) and Caitlin Abelseth.  

Christine was born on June 12th, 1924 in British Columbia, Canada to James and Mary Pitts. She graduated from teacher’s college and taught at a one room school house in Saskatchewan until her marriage to her grade-school sweetheart, Melvin.  She followed him to veterinary school in Ontario, and they settled in Toronto.  When Melvin accepted a job as the New York State Veterinarian and head of the Rabies Lab, they relocated to Voorheesville New York.  She would remain in Voorheesville for the rest of her life.   While still in Canada, Christine and Melvin had three children, twins, Janet and Jill and seven years later a son James.  Christine was a devoted mother.  Although she worked part time at several different jobs, (real estate, librarian) her children were always her first priority.  When grandchildren came along, she was involved on an almost daily basis installing a legacy of love and devotion.

Christine was an avid curler and a member of the Albany Curling Club where she made many lifelong friends. She was also a golfer (mainly in spirit) and was an active member of The Albany Country Club.  She was a wonderful cook from the full meals she provided every day for her family to the elaborate dinner parties she hosted.  Christine was also a dedicated member of the Voorheesville Methodist Church for most of her life.  

Christine’s family would like to thank the staff of Beverwyck Nursing Home who cared for Christine as if she were their own. To the very end she had a kind word for them as they did for her.  We will never forget their expertise or their kindness.   Special thanks to Dr. Lisa Thorn who provided thoughtful clinical advice with love.

A memorial for Christine will be held in December when all of her grandchildren can be present.  It will be private for her family. In lieu of flowers, please help someone in need this holiday season.