Chris was a wonderful person, and a precious friend to me in high school, during our college years, and beyond. Lucky for me, we spent lots of time together, especially in high school. I remember the first day I met her. It was in ninth grade at Edwin Markham Junior High. She was the “new” girl, with whom I first connected in gym class. We became immediate friends. Looking back, it seems like everyone liked Chris. She was funny and gregarious, with a sense of humor and a laugh that wouldn’t quit. She had beautiful red hair, and refused to wear pink because she said it clashed with her hair. Her mother bought her Capezios, which made me very jealous.

Chris got her driver’s license two years before me. We spent a great deal of time in her Ford Prefect. She sometimes drove me to school. We spent many a lunch hour cruising in that Prefect, often with other friends along for the ride. Two of our favorite destinations were A & W Root Beer and Der Wienerschnitzel. We also did our share of partying on the weekends, sometimes hanging out at Shakey’s Pizza. She was so much fun to be with.

Chris was living in San Jose in 1993-1995, while I was attending graduate school at SJSU. She was a single mom of two young girls, Megan and Jamie. Although personal computers were rather new at the time, Chris had one, knew how to use it, and I didn’t. She helped me transform my graduate program assignments into presentable documents, and we had a great opportunity to catch up with one another during that period of time.

Chris was well-known for her deep love of animals. This love persisted for her entire life. The last time I saw her was 2009, on the eve of WGHS’s 40th reunion. I will never forget Chris, and I am thankful for the privilege of knowing her well. I can still hear the sound of her laughing.

Rest in peace, my sweet friend.

Jeri (Campagna) Scardina