Chris (Linda Christine) VanderHart, aged 70, of Rockford, MI (born Galesburg, IL), joined her husband in eternal life on Thursday, June 16 th , 2022 after an abrupt and painless soiree with cancer. She was preceded in death by her husband Raymond E. VanderHart, parents Howard and Beverly Uhlmann, stepmother Wanda Stine Uhlmann, in-laws Rev. Norman and Edith VanderHart, and an infant brother. Chris is survived by her daughter Rachel (Brandon) Smith and grandson Henry Smith of Jackson, WY, brother David (Jackie) Uhlmann of Galesburg, IL, and many nieces and nephews. Chris was a passionate elementary art teacher in Kenowa Hills Public Schools for 35 years, and spent her retirement years finally focused on creating her own art. She was a graduate of Western Illinois University, with a Bachelor of Arts in Art Education and a Political Science minor. She volunteered with Arts Rockford and Equest Center for Therapeutic Riding. Her personal philosophy was that we are all connected; each life shared with her enriched her own. It was her desire to share her love of art, cultures, learning, and the joys of life with her students, her friends, and her family. Every experience was mutually rewarding, a learning opportunity, and a chance for growth. She said, "Life is an adventure! Live it! Love it! And don't ever, ever, stop learning!" Memorial Service will take place on Tuesday, June 28 th at 11:00 am at First Congregational Church, 192 E Bridge St NE, Rockford, MI, with visitation one hour prior. Lunch at 12:00 pm, with interment to follow. Service will be livestreamed through this link: https://youtu.be/9GZOQzKM29s Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider Equest Center for Therapeutic Riding, First Congregational Church of Rockford, or the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson, Wyoming to plant an aspen tree in her honor.