Christine was born Christine Vivian Ryan on June 11, 1945 in Robert's Arm, Newfoundland to parents Bernard and Josephine Ryan. As one of nine children, Christine had a large and loving family. Christine grew up on a farm and had a wholesome childhood. She was incredibly fond of both her mother and father. With farm life, there was always lots of work to be done. Sundays were for church and relaxing.

Her father worked as a fisherman, but when he was home, he always had time for his kids. He made the very best home-made bread. Christine wished she could make bread like her dad. Christine often told stories of how her father would play with the kids, always making up silly games or ways to keep them entertained for hours. Christine loved going skating and ice fishing with her family in the winters and berry picking in the summers. Christine is closest in age with her brother Hughie, so they have always shared a special bond. 

Christine spent many days helping her mother in the home. Her mother Josie loved to sew, cook, and bake. Every year, Josie would knit winter clothes made of wool she sheered herself. Christine’s mother and father taught her values like love, integrity, and honesty, which she carried with her in her life and taught her own children.

At the age of 16, Christine left home to work and live in residence at the hospital in Springdale, NFLD. Until that is, she married Robert (Bob) Giles in 1963 and welcomed their first daughter, Catherine. Not long after in 1964, the young couple welcomed their son, Perry. In 1967, the young family moved from Springdale to Little Bay. Tammy, the couple's third and final child, was born in 1970. Once all three children were in school, Christine went back to work at the small town’s hotel and diner. She volunteered as a Brownie Leader and helped with the local 4-H Club.

Due to a shortage of work in Newfoundland, Bob and Christine’s family moved to Tumbler Ridge. After the move, Christine worked for the district as a cook for several years. (Readers who lived in Tumbler Ridge in the 1980’s and early 1990’s will have likely had the pleasure of being served by Christine at D&G Burger.) Later on, Christine went to work with her good friend Fern, who operated a camp. After retirement, Christine volunteered at the Salvation Army Thrift Store and the local TOPS chapter; she also lent a hand at the Tumbler Ridge Seniors Society. When her grandchildren came along, she loved to have them for sleep overs and took them camping every chance she could get. 

Christine will be remembered for her sense of humor, quick wit, and hospitality. More than anything, Christine loved spending time with her family. So much so, Christine would cook up enough food for three families. She never wanted anyone to be still hungry. She would often donate meals or baked goods to different functions in town. Camping and spending time with her children and grandchildren were the highlights of her life that always put a smile on her face and laughter in her belly. Christine was a strong Christian woman who loved and cherished her roots. She was patient and a great conversationalist. She made people feel at ease and she made anywhere she lived a home. She was always cold, so likely, the woodstove was always on. She was a great friend to many, and a wonderful wife, mother, and grandmother.