Christine Lee “Chris” McCaffrey (née Perelka), age 61, passed away peacefully with her husband by her side, on December 29, 2025, in Lompoc, California. Chris was born on January 24, 1964, in Kimball, Nebraska. As the daughter of a U.S. Air Force serviceman, Christine spent part of her childhood in Germany, where she learned to speak German and embraced the local culture. Her family later relocated to Vandenberg Air Force Base, and Chris attended elementary school and graduated from Lompoc High School.

Chris worked for the local Forestry Division, contributing to trail clearing and conservation efforts. Motivated by a deep sense of care and compassion for others, she earned her Certified Nursing Assistant certificate and began her career at the Comprehensive Care Center and the Lompoc Valley Medical Center. Her many roles included Nursing Assistant & Ward Clerk in Med-Surg, pre-admittance services, and Surgery Scheduler for the Operating Room. Chris retired on June 15, 2020, after 36 years of service. After retirement, Chris continued to provide loving care and support for her mother, in-laws, and friends.

A woman of deep faith, Christine was a member of La Purisima Catholic Church, where she served as an Eucharistic Minister and religious studies teacher. Chris enjoyed attending Mass while traveling, especially during a memorable family trip to Ireland.

Christine shared 41 years of marriage with her husband, Tom. Together they raised two sons, Thomas and John, and actively supported their involvement in school, football, and FFA activities (Thank you, Sue). Chris generously gave her time as an FFA Booster and Scout Leader. Chris found joy in spending time with family and friends, gardening, beach-combing, traveling—particularly a cruise to Alaska with BFF Dana—and driving her Dodge Challenger. One of her proudest moments was beating her husband’s Plymouth Belvedere with her V8 Vega Station wagon.

Christine is remembered by her husband Tom; sons Thomas (Krysti) and John (Jasmine); grandchildren Abbigael, Deklan, and Presley; brother Tommy (Debbie) Perelka; Aunt Marianne and Uncle Juan; Aunt Carol; Cousin Carie (Mike); beloved brothers and sisters-in-law; cousins, nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and many dear friends.

Chris was preceded in death by her parents, Bob and Barbara; brother Bobby; cousin Katrina; Uncle John; her Grandparents; and In-laws, John and Mary McCaffrey.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Christine McCaffrey to the Lompoc Valley Historical Society, PO Box 88, Lompoc, CA. 93438.

A Rosary will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Starbuck-Lind Mortuary located at 123 North A Street, Lompoc, California. Please join us in honoring Chris by wearing something purple, her favorite color.

Chris will be missed forever and is loved to the moon and back.