Christina Bollig passed away peacefully on March 6, 2025, at the age of 95. She was born on August 28, 1929, in Rural Trego County, Kansas, to William and Anna (Lang) Bongartz.
Christina was a survivor in every sense of the word. At just four years old, she battled with rickets and had to relearn how to walk. In her later years, she triumphed over cancer with the same resilience that defined her life. As a devoted farm wife, she instilled in her children a deep appreciation for their heritage, not only through words but through her actions. She passed down traditions through her incredible cooking, from making galuskies and kuchen to preparing countless meals for family gatherings and community events. Her homemade chicken noodle soup—crafted with her own homemade noodles—became legendary, as did her exquisite pies and cakes.
But Christina’s talents weren’t confined to the kitchen. She was a gifted seamstress who could turn fabric into anything—from wedding gowns to the cherished Christmas nightgowns she made annually for her children and grandchildren. Sewing and embroidering brought her peace, but more importantly, they were an expression of her love and generosity. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her family to her vegetable and flower gardens, as well as to the many animals she cared for, including bucket calves, pigs, and chickens.
A woman of deep faith and unwavering dedication, Christina remained active in Christ the King Altar Society, the VFW, and the Knights of Columbus, honoring both her beliefs and her late husband’s memory. Her presence was a staple at the Trego County Fair, where she entered hundreds of exhibits each year, showcasing her skills in cooking, gardening, sewing, and embroidering. Her creations weren’t just displays of talent; they were testaments to a life filled with hard work, creativity, and devotion to family and community.
She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Anna Bongartz; her beloved husband, Julius Bollig; brothers, William Bongartz Jr. and Robert Bongartz; sister, Marie Davidson; son-in-law, Bruce Taggart; and grandson, Eric Bollig.
Christina is survived by her brother, George (Lillian) Bongartz; sister, Betty Lou Honas; sister-in-law, Delores Bongartz; sons, Delbert (Donna) Bollig and Douglas Bollig; daughters, Cynthia (Rick) Presley, Germaine Taggart, and Laraine (Carl) Mohler; grandchildren, Travis Taggart, Kelsey Pipkin, Michael Presley, Heather McGhee, Tallie Moore, Christa Meakins, Nikki Legleiter, Scott Bollig, Craig Bollig, Justin Bollig, Rhett Mohler, and Lincoln Mohler; 21 great-grandchildren; and 7 great-great-grandchildren.
A Vigil Service will be held at Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th St., WaKeeney, KS, on March 12, 2025, from 5:30 to 6:00 p.m., followed by a Rosary led by Christ the King Altar Society from 6:00 to 6:30 p.m. Open visitation will immediately follow from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Christ the King Catholic Church, 412 N. 9th St., WaKeeney, KS, on March 13, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., with a graveside service and burial to follow at WaKeeney Veterans’ Cemetery, 403 S. 13th St., at approximately 11:15 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to The Trego County Fair Board or for Masses at Christ the King Catholic Church. Donations may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672.
To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.schmittfuneral.com.