CRESCO — Anna Christine “Chris” Bourassa, 59, of Cresco, died unexpectedly Tuesday, July 28, 2026, during a procedure to treat blood clots following a living donor liver transplant.
A memorial Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, August 7, 2026, at Notre Dame Catholic Church in Cresco.
Visitation will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. Thursday, August 6, 2026, at Schmelzer Funeral Home in Cresco. There will be no visitation before the Friday morning service, and attendees are asked to enter the church and be seated.
Chris had looked forward to receiving her transplant as a second chance at life. After facing years of liver disease, she remained courageous, hopeful and excited about the future.
She was born January 25, 1967, in Norfolk, Virginia, to Ray and Elizabeth Hall. She later lived in Georgia and spent much of her youth in Oklahoma.
Chris was known for her kindness, compassion, spirited personality and deep empathy for others. She cared genuinely about the people around her and was always willing to help someone in need.
For nearly 35 years, Chris faithfully served others as a nurse. Her patience, gentle nature and optimism helped her provide comfort and encouragement to her patients. She believed every person deserved to be treated with dignity and compassion.
Away from work, Chris enjoyed being outdoors and soaking up the sunshine. One of her favorite places was her family’s cabin in Lansing, where she could relax near the river, spend time on the deck and make treasured memories with those she loved.
Chris was also an accomplished cook who enjoyed trying new recipes. Music brought her great happiness, especially classic songs from the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s. She often challenged family members to identify the artist playing during car rides and gatherings, singing along loudly and happily.
Family remained at the center of Chris’s life. She shared a devoted marriage with her husband, Dave, who stood beside her throughout years of illness and attended countless medical appointments with her. Chris lovingly described him as her rock and her knight in shining armor.
She was exceptionally proud of her son, Josh, whom she affectionately called her “Sunshine.” She also welcomed Josh’s wife, Grace, as another daughter and frequently spoke proudly of them both.
Chris adored her black Labrador, Luna, and treasured time spent with her brothers, extended family members and friends. She had a gift for making others feel loved, important and valued.
Chris is survived by her husband, Dave Bourassa; son, Josh Bourassa and his wife, Grace; brothers, Ray and his wife, Dawn, Brad and his wife, Teresa, and Barry and his spouse, Tyler; along with numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.
She is also survived by her faithful companion, Luna.
Chris was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Elizabeth Hall.
LINDSTROM FUNERAL HOMES is handling arrangements. To read more and see the full obituary, please click here.
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