Christine L. Buckley-Papada

Christine Lynn Buckley-Papada, 35, of Maidencreek Township passed away May 31, 2011 in the Reading Hospital.

She was the wife of Benjamin Lee Papada whom she married June 12, 1999.

Born February 25, 1976 in Reading, she was a daughter of Gregory Joseph Buckley of Shillington and Linda Lee (Kitchens) Buckley of Laureldale Borough.

Christine is also survived by her dog, Duffy.

She was a 1994 graduate of Muhlenberg High School.

Christine was a member of Alsace Lutheran Church, Muhlenberg Township.

She was employed as a receptionist with Lord's and Ladie's Salon and Spa since 2008, last working Saturday.

Christine was a former event coordinator at the Temple Fire Company for 5 years.

When Christine was a teenager, a bout with strep throat led to rheumatic heart disease that damaged her heart valves and, eventually, brought about congestive heart failure. At age 13, she had her first major surgery to repair/replace three heart valves. Christine found the courage to share her knowledge, experience and influence by becoming involved with the American Heart Association as a survivor spokesperson in Berks County. She volunteered at the local heart Walk and Heart Ball events. As an active member of the association's You're the Cure grassroots network, Christine had met with state and federal legislators in Harrisburg, PA and Washington, DC. Christine's efforts and passion have helped raise key decision makers' and her community's awareness about women and heart disease and the continued need for raising funds for reaserch, education and programs to fight heart disease and stroke.

Services will be Saturday at 10 a.m. in Alsace Lutheran Church, 2201 Kutztown Road, Muhlenberg Township. Viewings will be held Friday evening from 5:30-8:00 p.m. in the Walter R. Christ Funeral Home, Inc., 3300 Kutztown Road, Laureldale and Saturday one hour prior to services in the church.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: Human Society, 1801 N. 11th Street, Reading, PA 19604 and/or American Heart Association, P.O. Box 15120, Chicago, IL 60693.

For online condolences, visit www.christfuneralhome.com.