"Christine Sue Garfield (Becker, Peterson), lovingly known as Chris/Mom/Grandma, passed away unexpectedly on February 7, 2026, at Essentia Health in Duluth. She was 67 years old.

Chris was born on February 26, 1958, in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, to Edwin Carl Peterson and Hazel Louise Berglund. She was the youngest of three sisters and grew up in Brooklyn Center before spending her formative years along the North Shore in Duluth on Old Scenic Highway, a place that helped shape her lifelong love and respect for nature.

A graduate of Cathedral High School in Duluth, Chris formed friendships that lasted a lifetime. She had a gift for connection, maintaining close bonds with friends from high school while continually welcoming new friends into her life who quickly became dear to her.

Chris proudly served in the Navy Reserves. Throughout her career she worked in various sales roles,and in recent years, she found a home at Costco in Duluth, where her warmth and energy made her a natural at welcoming others as she sold memberships.

Family was the center of Chris’s world. She shared twenty years with her beloved husband, Tom Garfield. The two were recently married in a small, private ceremony, a reflection of their steady and enduring love. Being a mom was one of her greatest joys in life, and becoming a grandmother brought her immeasurable happiness. She cherished every moment with her grandchildren, Jack and Keira, and eagerly awaited the arrival of twin grandchildren this summer.

Chris was the keeper of family traditions and the heart of every holiday gathering. She loved decorating, celebrating, and making each occasion special. Her puppy chow was a favorite treat, and her baking was shared generously with family and friends. She had a creative and artistic spirit and found joy in making ordinary days feel festive. She was known for her love, fun, and unwavering support, especially to her nieces and nephews, who felt her encouragement in countless ways.

She found peace and happiness outdoors. Chris loved driving up the North Shore on spontaneous day adventures, canoeing, kayaking, and taking nature walks. She had a deep appreciation for the beauty of the world around her and instilled that appreciation in those she loved.

Chris is survived by her husband, Tom Garfield; her children Jon Becker, Kyle (Meghan) Becker, and Nick (Jesi) Garfield; her grandchildren Jack and Keira Becker, with twin grandchildren on the way; her sisters Jeanne (Roger) Lukkarila and Peggy Black; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Chris will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She was the best sister anyone could hope for, a sister-in-law who became a true sister, and a loyal friend across decades. Her life was defined by love, generosity, creativity, and an unwavering devotion to her family. She will be deeply missed and forever loved."