She was born in Germany on October 10, 1946, and came to Canada with her family at a very young age, where she would go on to build a beautiful and meaningful life.
In her late teens, Christel met the love of her life, John, and the two were married soon after. Though they did not have children, they built a strong, devoted, and loving life together—one rooted in partnership, creativity, and mutual support.
After a somewhat rocky start to married life, it was John’s photography that sparked an unexpected new adventure. Christel became his model, and in time, her own artistic talents blossomed into a lifelong passion. In the mid-1970s, she decided to share her creativity with the world, and Selframe Oshawa Inc. was born.
For nearly 50 years, Christel stood behind the counter, guiding customers with her remarkable eye for design. She had a rare gift for helping people decorate their homes in ways that truly reflected them. Her warmth, honesty, and artistic intuition made her deeply loved by all who walked through her doors. Even as she began thinking about retirement, her customers continued to seek her out—proof of the loyalty and affection she inspired.
Outside of her work, Christel enjoyed golf, especially with the friends who shared her growing enthusiasm for the game. Winters were spent in Florida until she decided it was time for a new adventure. Soon, the Islands and Spain became her home away from home—places where lifelong friends would gather, laugh, reminisce, and make new memories together.
Christel passed suddenly and peacefully, in a manner anyone could hope for, leaving behind a legacy of love, artistry, and generosity of spirit.
She will be deeply missed by her devoted husband John Lingen, her brother Dieter W. Edinger and his family, and all who were blessed to know her.
Christel will remain with her husband until the spring of 2026, when a Celebration of Life will be held in her honour.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Marigold Hospice Care or The Heart and Stroke Foundation.
